Students blog

Moving thirteen hours away from home was an enormous step in my life’s journey. While studying at Howard University, I coped with homesickness by texting, calling, and FaceTiming my friends and family. Hearing their encouraging words and support kept me going as the school year progressed.

Yet, there was one family member who didn’t understand why I left or when I would return: Glitter, my sassy, energetic, eight-pound Yorkie.

The Language Barrier

Leaving my “precious baby” four states away for months at a time was one of the most emotionally challenging experiences I’ve ever faced. Not only had we been inseparable since I adopted her ten years ago, but she had no idea why I was packing up and leaving her. On the day I left for college, she tried to climb onto my suitcases, attempting to pack herself along with me.

I tried to express to her that I’d be back for Thanksgiving, but she didn’t understand. For the first few months, she spent her time whining and sleeping outside my bedroom door instead of in her cozy bed. Seeing her actions broke my heart and prompted me to create a plan to help other students prepare their pets for a big college move.

During the Summer: Transfer Care Duties

First, slowly start to shift responsibilities onto your pet’s new caregivers over the summer. Once you move, you won’t be able to take them on walks, feed them, or give them treats. To ease this transition for everyone, gradually transfer these responsibilities to their new caregiver.

This process helped Glitter significantly as she adjusted to her new walking and feeding schedule with my sister, Olivia.

Before the Move: Leave Your Scent

Make sure you leave something behind with your scent on it to comfort your pet. Have an old sweatband, pair of socks, or T-shirt? Wear it around the house in the weeks leading up to your move. That way, your pet can have a personal keepsake of you whenever they feel lonely.

After the Move: Call Your Pet

Once you’re settled in at school, continue to check in on your pet via FaceTime so they can recognize, hear, and see you. The adjustment process may take time. However, seeing your furry friend run to the phone when they hear your voice is worth it.

Even though your pet may not “speak,” they still want to hear from you and know you’re looking out for them. Little check-ins go a long way!

Prepare for Change Together

Overall, following these steps can lead to a smoother emotional transition into college for both you and your pet. It helps new caregivers ease into their roles and allows pets to accept the changes that college brings.

Even though I may be away for months at a time, these adjustments seemed to help Glitter understand I still care. And the quality time we have together during my visits home reassures her. She knows we still have many dog park days, pet store visits, and pup-cup trips in our future!

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

I used to think the only way to study was in total silence. I’d go to the quiet floor of the library, put in earplugs, and try to zone in.

It didn’t work for me, though. My mind would wander, or I’d get anxious just staring at a blank page.

Discovering Study Noise

During a late-night study session, I decided to try listening to lo-fi music, and I found that I really liked it. My study style changed immediately.

Now, I never study without “study noise.” For me, that’s a mix of lo-fi beats, ambient nature sounds, and sometimes even instrumental movie soundtracks. I’ve created playlists that include everything from soft rain to background coffee shop chatter.

It might sound unusual, but calming background noise helps me feel less pressured. It puts me at ease while working and keeps my mind focused without making me feel overwhelmed.

Creating My Own Sound

What’s cool is that I started making my own mixes using audio software I’d been learning for fun. I’d combine gentle synths, vinyl crackle effects, and recordings to personalize the vibe.

Creating those sounds became a form of self-care. When I shared them with friends, I discovered that a lot of other students were looking for the same thing.

Since then, my “study noise” playlists have become just as essential as my textbooks. They help me stay focused during exam season, unwind while reviewing my notes, and even get through long readings when I’m feeling drained.

Learning What Works

I encourage every student to explore their focus style. Try different sounds, like lo-fi, classical, or soft jazz, to see what works for you.

You don’t need fancy gear, just headphones and an open mind. Your grades (and your stress levels) will thank you.

If silence doesn’t work for you, you’re not alone. The solution might be as simple as pressing play.

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So, you’re thinking about a master’s degree. Or maybe you’ve already started one. Either way, welcome! You’re in good company.

I entered college knowing I wanted to apply for my school’s five-year Master’s of Education program—but honestly? It was still scary.

Course planning, advisor meetings, recommendation letters, and essays were all part of the climb. When the long-awaited acceptance finally arrived (yay!), I felt like I’d climbed a mountain.

But then came the reality check: I still had to complete the program. Cue the overwhelm.

Master Your Master’s

Whether you’re at the beginning or somewhere in the middle, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement, nerves, and questions. The good news? You’re not alone.

Here are some tips I’ve learned that can help you not just survive but master your master’s.

Know Your Why

Before anything else, ask yourself why you’re pursuing this degree. Is it to deepen your expertise? Pivot your career?

Your “why” will guide you in choosing the right program and opportunities. Importantly, it will also keep you motivated through challenges.

Make sure your path reflects your goals—not just what seems like the “next step.”

Adjust Your Mindset

Grad school isn’t undergrad 2.0. Expectations are higher, and the learning is more self-directed. You’re not just absorbing knowledge anymore—you’re contributing to it.

You’ll lead discussions, apply theory, and think like a future leader in your field. Passive participation won’t cut it.

Be your own advocate, seek help when needed, and navigate uncertainty with confidence. The earlier you embrace this shift in mindset, the more empowered you’ll feel.

Schedule in Structure

Organization is everything. Grad school assignments are often long-term and not built for last-minute cramming.

Use your planner, calendar, or apps to break big projects into small tasks. Schedule time for deep focus—and for rest.

My favorite tip? A “Friday Reset”: spend fifteen minutes reviewing your week and prepping for the next. Small habits like this can keep you grounded and on track.

Build Relationships

Grad school can feel isolating, especially if your social circle shifts. I stayed an extra year at my university while friends graduated, and I felt that loneliness. But building connections in my program helped immensely.

Your peers share your goals (and your fears). Invest in those relationships.

Take Care of You

Be gentle with yourself along the way. Despite my preparation, I struggled with imposter syndrome when I started student teaching. I regained confidence by reminding myself that I’m still a student and new challenges are opportunities to learn.

You might start your program focused on one career path only to discover a new passion. That’s not failure; that’s growth.

Sustain Your Success

Pursuing a master’s is a decisive step. Whether you’re still considering it or are already enrolled, remember that you’ve already chosen growth—and that process requires sustainability.

By knowing your purpose, participating proactively, and planning your time, you can stay ahead of the overwhelm. Building relationships and taking care of yourself will make that success sustainable.

Now go out there and master your master’s!

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

College is an exciting time full of independence and new experiences, often accompanied by the first real taste of financial responsibility. With expenses like tuition, books, rent, and snacks adding up quickly, it's easy to feel overwhelmed without a plan. But with a few smart habits and simple tools, budgeting in college can be empowering rather than restrictive. You don't need to sacrifice fun to stay financially healthy; you just need a strategy.

Track Your Spending and Make a Simple Budget

The first step to gaining control of your finances is knowing where your money goes. Use free apps like Mint, EveryDollar, or a basic spreadsheet to track your spending. Break it down into categories: food, rent, school supplies, transportation, and entertainment.

Once you have a clear picture of your spending, create a monthly budget with realistic spending limits. Budgeting doesn't mean you can't enjoy your daily coffee; it just helps you choose what's worth spending now and what can wait.

Remember Student Discounts and Free Resources

Many businesses offer discounts for college students—think streaming services, restaurants, software, and even travel. Always carry your student ID, and don't hesitate to ask about deals even if they aren't advertised.

On campus, make the most of free resources: gym memberships, tutoring centers, events with free food, and loaner tech equipment. These perks can help stretch your budget without compromising your experience.

Plan Ahead and Build a Safety Net

Unexpected costs are part of life: your laptop breaks, a textbook costs more than expected, or you get hit with a surprise medical bill. Set aside a small amount (even ten or twenty dollars) into a monthly savings or emergency fund. Over time, this cushion will help you handle surprises without added stress or unexpected debt. Apply for scholarships each year to save even more in the long term.

Learning how to budget in college isn't just about surviving; it's about setting yourself up for success. Track spending, use student resources, and plan ahead to maximize your college experience without financial anxiety. A little discipline now goes a long way in building strong habits that will benefit you well beyond graduation.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

I used to fear an empty calendar. Any unscheduled time felt like a missed opportunity. Then, I stumbled across this idea from the Chinese philosopher Laozi: "A bowl is most useful when it is empty.”

At first, I didn't get it. Who wants an empty bowl? But after two years of juggling college life, I've come to understand the wisdom in those words. It's all about finding a balance between fullness and emptiness—between a packed schedule and intentional downtime.

An Overflowing Schedule

My college schedule has made me intimately familiar with the concepts of fullness and emptiness. During my sophomore fall semester, I was active in student government, club swimming, and my professional fraternity. Add a social life and good grades, and my calendar was constantly full.

That semester, I strived to keep my schedule packed. Any free evening felt like a defeat; I wanted to make the most of my time. However, this constant stimulation took a toll on my mental health. By prioritizing a full schedule, I neglected the essential downtime I needed for balance.

Rethinking Downtime

When I say "emptiness," I don't mean doomscrolling on my phone. I'm referring to time spent resting, reflecting, meditating, or journaling. Within a schedule, emptiness is unscheduled time for doing whatever you need. Even the most relentless workaholics need this kind of time. Relaxing downtime is essential self-care, something my generation (and I) often neglect.

Embracing Emptiness

I know many people who have said something like, "I am afraid to be alone with my thoughts." And last year, I was too. Solitude can be scary, especially when avoiding processing complex thoughts and issues.

However, over winter break, I started journaling, which helped me process a lot of what I was trying to suppress. Scheduling this downtime and using it intentionally helped me strengthen myself mentally. This allowed me to be more effective during my busy times. Now, I don't fear solitude; I cherish my downtime.

Less is More

Empty time isn't wasted time; it's potential. It's space for self-discovery, recharging, and being truly present. Like an empty bowl stands ready to be filled, open space in your schedule allows flexibility for unexpected opportunities and all of life's surprises.

During your next planning session, take a look at your calendar. Where can you create some emptiness, room to breathe, and time just to exist?

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

There is nothing more bittersweet than moving to somewhere you are unfamiliar with. It is the start of a new journey for you, whether it be for college or your first job, but there will always be a part of you that feels nervous. The process of moving is stressful enough with finding a place to live, getting your belongings from point A to point B, and switching things over like your driver’s license and insurance, but that is not where most people struggle. The struggle lies in making your new residence feel like home. For you to feel comfortable in this new environment, it is important to meet others, learn the lay of the land, and find places that can become your “go-to spot.”

Start Online

If this is your first time moving, it might feel intimidating going out of your way to meet people, and that is totally okay! What you need to realize is that if you are moving for college or work, there are tons of other people who feel the same way as you. A good way to overcome this is by looking for Facebook groups that pertain to you or your interests. Most colleges will have a Facebook page where other students are looking to make friends, sublease apartments, and host activities together. If you are moving for work, some companies have their own clubs that employees can participate in, and in some circumstances, they have their own chat groups where employees can meet each other. With Facebook groups, it is important to put yourself out there and chat with people who have similar interests.

Explore the Area

It is easy to stay behind the screen and read what other people post, but you will never meet people if you do not take the initiative. After you have settled into your new place, take a day to explore everything around you. You aren’t going to know all the street names or where to go but get yourself familiar with the area just by walking or driving around and checking places out. You can find cool local spots, places where you can bike or walk around, and spots where you can go with friends, like the movies or an arcade. It takes a bit of time, but a place really feels like home when you can stop using your maps app to get around.

Establish New Favorites

Similar to discovering new places, having your go-to spots is what cements a new area and makes it feel like home. Humans are creatures of habit, and we all have our favorite places to go. Finding simple things like your favorite place to get breakfast, a restaurant that has trivia, or a gym you enjoy going to will make you feel comfortable in your environment. You will also see familiar faces if you go to your favorite spots at a certain time, and friendships are bound to happen fluidly. There is no better feeling than when you stop feeling like a tourist and start to feel like one of the locals.

Moving is never going to be easy. Change is always something people are scared of, but if you embrace that change instead of fearing it, you will find that it is a good thing. It can be scary to move to a place where you do not know anyone, but you can use that as a chance for a fresh start and to be the person you are now. Once you make your new place feel like home, everything else will be so much easier.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

Before your first year of college begins, it’s important to start thinking about your roommate options. If the college you’re attending allows you to choose your roommate, take the time to select them carefully. If you’re assigned a roommate, try to connect with them beforehand.

Living with someone, especially someone you don’t know, can be challenging. Sharing a dorm room may feel difficult at first, but with some effort, it can become manageable (and even enjoyable). Not all first-year roommates create conflict; some may even become lifelong friends.

Here are five tips for successfully sharing a space with a new college roommate:

1. Show Mutual Respect

Sharing a small space means you’ll need to be considerate of each other. This includes avoiding habits like leaving clothes on the floor, letting dishes pile up, leaving trash around, blasting TikTok at full volume, inviting people over without notice, or touching your roommate’s belongings without permission. These behaviors can build resentment and create an unpleasant living environment for both of you.

2. Create a Roommate Agreement

Don’t wait three weeks to realize your late-night habits are disrupting your roommate’s early-morning schedule. To avoid misunderstandings, have an open conversation early on about expectations. Discuss (and consider writing down):

• class times and sleep schedules
• when you’ll need the room for studying
• guest etiquette and expectations
• which items are available for shared use
• shared responsibilities like cleaning common areas or taking out the trash

Creating a roommate agreement you both stick to ensures that one person doesn’t feel like they’re doing all the work.

3. Get to Know Each Other

It’s challenging to live with someone for nine months without knowing much about them. While you don’t have to become best friends, getting to know your roommate (even a little) can help reduce tension. You’re both entering a new environment and likely have more in common than you realize.

Grabbing food together, walking each other’s schedules, watching a movie, or simply chatting about your day can help build a comfortable relationship with your roommate.

4. Communicate Openly

If there is an issue that you need to address, don’t ignore it. If your roommate is doing something that bothers you and it can be resolved, bring it up. If you feel your boundaries aren’t being respected, have a conversation about it.

Remember, your Room Advisors are there to help. Don’t be afraid to reach out to them for guidance when needed.

5. Pick Your Battles

That said, everyone has their own way of doing things. If you hear yourself thinking, “Why can’t they just do things how I do it,” frustration (and resentment) could start to build.

Before confronting your roommate about their habits, ask yourself: “Is this really a big deal? Does it affect our ability to coexist?” If the answer is no, let it go. Not every issue is worth a conflict.

First-Year Roommate Strategy

Compromise is essential when living with someone; sometimes, it won’t go in your favor, and that’s okay. Respecting the person you’re living with is crucial, especially since college is already stressful enough. You don’t need unnecessary tension where you sleep.

For a smooth transition into your new environment, set clear boundaries early with a roommate agreement. By getting to know each other, communicating openly, and showing mutual respect, you can make the best of sharing your space with your first college roommate.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

Poof! Just like that, summer fades into a memory, and it's time to trade sunscreen for syllabi. Whether you're starting college as a first-year student or heading into another semester, the first week back can feel overwhelming.

Without the familiar support of home and routine, it's easy to feel a little lost. But don't worry, you're not alone! As someone who's made it through two full years of college, I want to share a few simple but powerful tips to help make the transition smoother: read the syllabus, arrive prepared, and connect with others.

Syllabus: Script for Success

Many professors will post a syllabus before classes even begin. It may be tempting to skip it for extra time off, but reviewing the syllabus before the first day can save you from surprises later in the semester.

The syllabus outlines expectations, required materials, and important due dates. You'll also get a feel for the professor's teaching style and whether the course will be lecture-heavy, discussion-based, or project-driven. Knowing this will save you time when organizing your notes and materials.

Reading the syllabus carefully prepares you for success in the class. It helps you build a solid foundation for the semester by clarifying the professor's expectations ahead of time.

Preparation: Before Day One

Don't underestimate the power of being prepared. Double-check the syllabus for the required materials, and come to class with notebooks, pens, and a fully charged laptop. It may seem like a small step, but being organized on day one sets the tone for the rest of the semester.

It also helps to review your class schedule and familiarize yourself with where your classes are located on campus. College can feel like a maze, especially at the start of a new semester. Knowing where you're going ahead of time can save you a lot of stress and help you avoid being late or getting lost.

First Week: Connect with Others

Even though the first week can be a scramble, remember to introduce yourself to others in class. Simply saying, "Hi, my name is…" can help ease nerves and open the door to new friendships.

I came to college knowing only three people in a school of 30,000. I remember how intimidating it felt to walk into a room full of strangers. But over time, I've made great friends just by introducing myself in class.

Forming connections early on helps create a support system. You'll always have someone to study with, ask questions, or grab coffee with before a morning lecture. Plus, if you miss a class, it's reassuring to have someone who can share notes or update you on assignments.

The Transition Back

After two years of college, I've learned something important: feeling lost during the first few weeks is more common than we admit. Whether you're overwhelmed, stressed, or just trying to find your rhythm again, know you're not alone.

Rely on campus and class resources for a smooth transition back. Your syllabus gives you a solid foundation for class, being prepared helps you start the semester with confidence, and connecting with classmates ensures you have a support system from day one.

Remember, a new semester means new beginnings. Give yourself grace, stay curious, meet new people, and get ready!

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

Leaving home for college is both exciting and terrifying. You suddenly have all this freedom, but that also means responsibility. Here are some challenges you’ll likely face and how to handle them.

Avoiding the ‘Freshman Fifteen’

Many college students gain weight during their first time away from home. I thought, “that won’t happen to me” -- until it did. Unlimited dining hall food, fast food, and constant snacking caught up fast. But by second semester, I lost the weight by:

• Hitting the gym: Even short workouts help. Find something you enjoy so you’ll actually stick with it.
• Being mindful of eating: I started using to-go boxes at the dining hall to avoid overeating and stocked my dorm with snacks I wouldn’t binge.
• Saving flex bucks: On-campus fast food is tempting, but I treated it like a cheat meal instead of a habit.

Managing Your Time

With no one telling you what to do, it’s easy to fall behind. I saw a lot of people struggle with this, including myself. Here’s what worked:

• Using a whiteboard calendar: The BEST Investment. Writing down deadlines made a huge difference. A physical reminder got rid of last-minute assignments or surprise tests.
• Sticking to a routine: Setting consistent sleep, study, and gym times helped me stay productive.
• Finding responsible friends: Surrounding myself with motivated people made it easier to stay on track.

Handling Homesickness

Being five hours from home, I missed it more than I expected. Here’s what helped:

• Visiting home when possible: Even short trips back home helped me reset.
• Calling my parents: I didn’t do this enough, but every time I did, I felt better.
• Keeping in touch with old friends: Even if I didn’t miss high school, I missed the people. Staying connected and visiting their schools helped.

Making Friends & Avoiding Loneliness

I worried about making friends, but it turned out to be easier than I thought. Here’s what helped:

• Putting myself out there: Everyone is looking for friends. Don’t be afraid to start a conversation.
• Joining clubs or sports: I joined a flag football team, which helped me meet people with similar interests. There’s a club for everything -- find yours.

Dealing with Stress

College is stressful, whether it’s exams or just life. Here’s what helped me:

• Going on walks: Walking around campus at night cleared my head.
• Talking to someone: A friend, family member, or professor. Just talking about stress can help.
• Shifting my mindset: Instead of dreading assignments, I reminded myself I was lucky to be in college, which helped.

Avoiding the “Broke College Student” Life

College is expensive, but you don’t have to be completely broke. Here’s what worked for me:

• Budgeting my money: I tracked what I was spending so I wouldn’t run out before the semester ended.
• Getting a job: I knew people who worked online or on campus, and I was lucky to get a job with Pearson, and it made a difference.
• Applying for scholarships: There’s free money out there. Most people don’t even try to get it so apply for everything.

Roommate Problems Happen

Unless you know your roommate beforehand, there’s a chance you won’t get along right away. My roommate and I had our share of arguments, but here’s what helped:

• Talking it out: Don’t let small issues turn into big ones. A simple and calm conversation can fix most things.
• Getting the RA involved: If things escalate, your RA is there to help.
• Setting expectations early: Roommate agreements might feel awkward, but they prevent future conflicts.

Final Thoughts

College is a learning experience in every way. You’ll make mistakes, but you’ll also grow. Stay organized, take care of yourself, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. You got this!

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started!