Students blog

Education is a vital resource for our technical and social interaction with the communities around us. As technology progresses, K-12 and Higher Education find themselves at the behest of new tools and avenues of learning in our contemporary world. Computers, calculators, and mobile devices drastically changed how we learn in the classroom. What used to be bound to a physical location has become available 24/7 through digital technologies. The internet gave us easy, quick access to the expanse of human knowledge at the click of a button. Now, there is a new digital tool sweeping across the world, useful in every point of life: generative AI. 
 

Having become popular in the past couple of years, generative AI chatbots specifically have taken over the news with their dramatic changes to industries, everyday life, and the classroom. A controversial topic as well by the way it learns and the validity of its output, this new technology has yet again flipped the table concerning certain practices and learning objectives. Within the classroom, generative AIs like Chat GPT, Perplexity, and Claude have found themselves to be useful tools for completing assignments and education. By simply asking the AI chatbot, you are given an answer based on the information bestowed. This technology, however, has also been used for academically dishonest tasks. That doesn’t mean that this new tool is immediately the worst product to come out. Like a calculator, AI is a tool, and like every tool, you use it to better your work. If you rely on it too heavily, you will get nowhere in the end. 
 

Taking computer science classes in AI allows me to expand my programs beyond an assignment’s basic requirements. With AI, I have been able to understand more deeply the complex concepts I apply to my code, making me a more well-rounded computer scientist and computer programmer. However, when I used this tool, I didn’t ask the chatbot how to do the assignment. If I ran into issues I couldn’t solve or questions I would like to learn more about, I fed information to the AI detailing. In response, you can get not only an answer but detailed feedback that leads up to that answer and possible information beyond.  
 
Now, this isn’t entirely a computer science tool. As a writing assistant, chatbot AI models can assist with small tasks in your writing. By utilizing the chatbot as a tool and a reference, we can come to understand the interaction as a conversation; you want to balance out the back and forth to not be so one-sided. The more one-sided it becomes, the more you might not find what you want from that AI. Or you might find you’ve taken too much and are coming up with something you do not understand. 
 

An amazing contemporary technology, generative AI has completely changed the different stages of the world. Like a tool, it is good to start using it early. By understanding AI, you can further develop your skills and become more productive in whatever facet of your life you are working on, remembering that you work alongside it, not for it. 

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! 

First-Year Overwhelm

How did you feel during your first year in college? Were you overwhelmed and maybe a little worried that you might fail your classes? That was exactly how I felt.

I was extremely nervous about starting college because it was intimidating. Reading teacher reviews for courses like Business Calculus only added to my anxiety.

I was convinced I could fail my exams along with half of the class and began to question whether I was cut out for college at all. I knew that college was a big step up from high school. The fear of falling behind was constantly in the back of my mind.

Making the Most of Campus Support

As someone who plans for every situation, I created a strategy to make sure I didn’t fail. First, I took advantage of every resource available to me. I regularly attended Supplemental Instruction sessions, visited my professors’ office hours, and worked through extra practice problems whenever I could.

These resources helped immensely, but I still struggled to study efficiently, especially before major exams or when study guides weren't provided.

Expanding to Modern Resources

With the rise of AI over the past few years, I decided to create my own study resource. I began uploading my lecture notes, textbook chapters, and practice problems into an AI tool (e.g., ChatGPT, Claude, or NotebookLM). I would then ask it to generate a list of key terms and thirty multiple-choice questions, complete with answers and explanations.

This approach completely changed the way I studied. I no longer had to spend countless hours cramming before exams or feel lost while reviewing material. Instead, I could study a little each day. This helped me develop a deeper understanding of the topics and retain information much better.

Sharing My Strategy

This method didn’t just help me. Once I started seeing real results (better grades, less stress, and more confidence), I shared this strategy with friends who were also struggling. Before long, their grades improved, too. Many also told me they felt way less anxious about exams.

Even now, in our second year of college, my friends and I continue to use this method. It allows us to study consistently during the week while still leaving time to enjoy the activities we love.

Using AI the Right Way

While this method is incredibly effective, it’s important to be mindful of its limitations. Generative AI should be used as a study aid, not as a tool for cheating. To use it ethically, rely on it only to reinforce what you’ve learned, not to replace traditional studying.

Since most AI gathers information from sources across the internet, it’s crucial to double-check that the material is accurate. AI-based studying should complement your learning, not serve as a substitute for it.

Personalize Your Study Strategy

While this method was a game-changer for me, it might not work for everyone. Each person has their own unique way of learning. Consider adding AI study guides while continuing to rely on your go-to study methods.

It's a great daily tool to help you jumpstart a consistent study routine and reinforce details you might otherwise forget. College is challenging, but with commitment and an effective studying strategy, success is well within reach.

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! 

The Gen-Z Movement in Nepal

September 8, 2025, marked the beginning of what would soon be known as the “Gen-Z Movement” in Nepal. Thousands, if not millions, of Nepali youth filled the streets of Kathmandu and other cities. They were united under one cause: to reclaim justice, equality, and freedom for Nepali citizens.

While the protest proved to be successful in igniting change, the victory came at a heartbreaking cost. Many young Nepalis lost their lives fighting for their country’s future during public demonstrations; the exact number is not consistently reported. Their bravery became a symbol of hope, but their loss left a deep scar across the nation.

Far From Home

For those of us living abroad, particularly in the U.S., the crisis hit in a completely different way. We all felt the weight of being so far from home while our friends and families were suffering.

The government's restriction on communication apps like Messenger and WhatsApp made it nearly impossible to reach our loved ones. The silence was deafening, and every minute spent waiting for updates felt like years.

However, in that silence, something unexpectedly beautiful happened here at the University of North Texas. UNT has one of the largest diasporas of international Nepali students, making the Nepali Student Association a vital organization during this time.

The Nepali Student Association organized a candlelight vigil to honor the lives lost. Standing there with the soft glow of candles lighting the night, we held a moment of silence that spoke louder than words ever could.

Surrounded by friends and strangers alike, I felt both grief and strength. Afterward, many of us gathered in the Union. We shared updates, comforted one another, and explained to non-Nepalis what was happening back home.

More Than a University

In those moments, UNT became more than just a university; it became a second family. The strength, compassion, and support from students across campus showed me the true meaning of unity in times of crisis. The UNT community gave international Nepali students a sense of belonging and amplified their voices, ensuring the sacrifices made in Nepal weren’t forgotten.

The “Gen-Z Movement” in Nepal is about courage and hope. Here at UNT, it also became a story of community, showing how we stood together as one, even thousands of miles away.

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! 

Gift giving is tough! It’s so difficult to find that perfect gift every year around the holidays for those that are important in your life. Personally, I love receiving handmade gifts, and why not add a personalized touch for those that are most important in your life?

Not only is crafting your own glassware super easy, but it allows you to create a thoughtful one-of-a-kind gift that can be used all year round! Get ready to raise a toast to craftsmanship and creativity this holiday season!

Materials:

• Glassware of your choice (ex. mug, cup, wine glass, etc.)
• Rubbing alcohol
• Glass paint (non-toxic and oven safe, there are so many options on Amazon or in stores!)
• Paintbrushes
• Oven

Step 1: Clean the Glassware

• Wash the glasses thoroughly with soap and water, and then dry completely
• Rub the surface you will be painting with rubbing alcohol to remove any fingerprints or remaining residue

Step 2: Pick Your Design and Start Painting

• Tip: Research and sketch out the design you want to make! Try to think of something meaningful to the person you are gifting your glasses to!
• Tip: Try to leave about 1 inch of empty space around the rim of your glass for more comfortable drinking!

Step 3: Let It Dry

• Allow the paint to dry completely! I recommend allowing 24-48 hours for the paint to dry and cure.
• Tip: Check out the box that your paint came in to see if there are any special instructions!

Step 4: Cure the Paint in the Oven

• Place the glasses in a cold oven
• Then set the oven temperature according to the paint’s instructions (usually around 350°- 400°F)
• Leave your glasses in the oven for about 30 minutes and then let the glasses cool inside of the oven

Step 5: Gift Away!

• Your glasses are now ready for use!
• Tip: Wrap up your glass set in a cute gift box and add a note that they are handmade and personalized! And don’t forget to remind the recipient that if they want them to last, don’t put them in the dishwasher!
  

Happy crafting and Happy Holidays!

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 can get hectic! It’s easy to get lost in the moment and forget to take care of yourself. And since many cognitive and motor processes are interconnected, physical activity helps boost your mental health as well as your overall health.

Studies show that people experience increased cognitive function after exercising, meaning you will ultimately be helping your studies by taking a break from the books to get up and move. And no, you do not have to exert yourself at your maximum level to see these benefits!

As a senior in college who prioritizes fitting exercise into my busy schedule, I will share some ways to help get enough activity in your routine without sacrificing your grades to do it.

Outdoor Recreation: Hiking Near Campus

Hiking isn’t always the best activity in a time crunch, but it is very rewarding, and spending time away from the hustle and bustle of college is crucial for your mental health. I love to use the All Trails app to find trails near me, as it is free and easy to use. Many universities also have resources accessible online and rentable gear. This information can usually be found using Google, your university’s recreation site, or your student union. You might be surprised by how many trails are hidden near your campus!

On-Campus Commuting: Walking & Biking

Depending on how close you live to campus, taking the extra few minutes to walk to your class pays off. I always feel much more refreshed getting to class after taking non-motorized transportation, and it is easy to fit into your schedule!

Another thing I love to do is walk or bike around campus. I know my campus like the back of my hand, but I still find it beautiful every time I explore it.

Intramural Sports: Team Fitness & Fun

Not only are intramural sports great exercise, but they are also a terrific way to make new friends who share the same hobbies as you. This may seem daunting if you are new to it, but there are usually leagues of all skill levels for various sports. I had barely heard of flag football when I started college. Still, I decided to join an intramural league on a whim and absolutely loved it!

Student Yoga: Finding Zen on Campus

All you need for a yoga session is either grass or a floor, and a towel or a yoga mat (if you have one). This is a great way to get in some light exercise and de-stress. There are multiple types of yoga, and you can download apps or use YouTube to discover which types are most suited for you.

Racket Sports: Fun & Fitness on the Court

Last but certainly not least, racket sports can fit into the intramural sports category or could be something you do at your convenience. Whether you are a tennis enthusiast or have never touched a racket, it is not too difficult once you learn the basics. If you are brand new, I would recommend pickleball, but if you’ve had some experience, badminton or tennis are also great options. These types of sports are a fun way to multitask socializing with aerobic exercise.

These are some of my favorite ways to stay active, even with a busy schedule. You can try one of these suggestions or explore other options that fit your interests. Finding time for exercise isn't about sacrificing study time; it's about enhancing your overall well-being and academic performance. The next time you’re fatigued from studying, remember that breaks for physical activity can be more beneficial than pushing through the exhaustion.

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! 

Starting college is an exciting time. New classes, new friends, new clubs, and a world of freedom and opportunities all hitting at once. It’s fresh and fun, but it can also feel overwhelming, like you’re drowning in choices.

My advice? Say yes. Yes to new experiences. Yes to clubs, sports, or student organizations. Yes to coffee with a professor or chatting with someone in your dorm hallway.

College is the time to explore, and the more you put in, the more you’ll get out. Saying yes doesn’t mean doing everything or stretching yourself too thin—it means being open to opportunities that could change your life.

Showing Up at My Sorority

I learned this firsthand when I joined my sorority. At first, it felt like too much. So many new faces, so many events, so many rules and social constructs I didn’t understand. Honestly, I considered backing out. But I kept showing up, saying yes to as many activities as I could manage.

Slowly, I found my people. I met a group of girls who now, three years later, are some of my best friends. That one decision to keep showing up, even when it was uncomfortable, completely shaped my college experience.

Opening New Doors on Campus

Saying yes opens doors. Joining clubs or attending events isn’t just about padding your resume. These experiences are about discovering new passions, building friendships, networking, and gaining exposure you can’t get anywhere else.

Even classes or workshops that seem intimidating at first can teach you resilience, creativity, and confidence. Each yes is a step toward growth, and even small ones can lead to unexpectedly meaningful experiences.

Balance to Avoid Burnout

Of course, saying yes doesn’t mean sacrificing your mental health. College can be intense, and it’s okay to take breaks. Listen to your body and mind while prioritizing what really matters. Rest, recharge, and return to opportunities with energy.

Balance is key! You can say yes to life without burning out. The goal is engagement, not exhaustion.

Becoming a “Yes Man”

Being a “Yes Man” in college is really about mindset. It’s about curiosity, courage, and being willing to step outside your comfort zone. Don’t let fear or self-doubt stop you from exploring the possibilities in front of you.

Take that chance to join a club, attend an event, or talk to someone new. Those moments often become the stories, friendships, and memories you’ll treasure for years.

College is what you make of it. By saying yes, you’ll create a richer, fuller, more meaningful college experience. Don’t wait for opportunities to find you; seek them out.

Engage, explore, and embrace the adventure. In the end, you’ll look back not just at grades or a transcript but at the friendships, experiences, and stories that shaped who you are.

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! 

Winners and losers both set goals. The difference between the winner (who achieves their goal) and the loser (who never achieves their goal) is their habits.

The Habit is the Goal

Let’s be honest: college (and life) often feels like juggling fire while riding a unicycle. With classes, commitments, and the temptation of “just one more episode,” it’s easy to rely on bursts of motivation. But motivation is like campus Wi-Fi — it works great when you have it but disappears the moment you need it most. That’s why habits are the true change-makers.

Many people treat habits as seasonal tools — something you do just to hit a temporary goal. But this is a limited mindset. Instead, if you make the habit itself the goal, the results will naturally follow. In fact, when you make a habit part of your identity (“I am a runner” instead of “I want to run a 5K”), the goal becomes your reality almost effortlessly.

How to Build a Habit

If you want to hear from a habits expert instead of a college student who still procrastinates on homework, I highly recommend the book Atomic Habits by James Clear. Clear breaks down the science very “clearly” (pun intended). He emphasizes that building habits isn’t about massive overhauls, but small, consistent wins that compound like interest.

He outlines four key steps to building a habit:

1. Create a cue. Something triggers you to act. Walk into the kitchen? You’re suddenly opening the fridge. Your environment often cues your behavior.

2. Lower the activation energy. Make the habit easy to start. If your guitar is stored in the attic, odds are you’ll never play it. But if it’s on a stand next to your desk, picking it up becomes effortless. Small changes in your setup can significantly lower the barrier to action.

3. Practice the desired response. This step is like the first day at the gym: everything feels heavy, awkward, and maybe even a little embarrassing. But with repetition, what once seemed impossible becomes second nature. Think about learning to ride a bike: the first tries are wobbly, but soon you’re cruising without thinking. That’s your brain engraving a new neural groove.

4. Make it enjoyable. If the habit feels rewarding, your brain will want to repeat it. Find ways to make it fun, reward yourself, or pair it with something you already enjoy.

The Genius of Habit Stacking

One of my favorite techniques from the book is habit stacking — linking a new habit to an existing one. It’s like sneaking vegetables into your mac and cheese. You don’t notice the effort as much, but the benefits add up.

Personally, I’ve found success by stacking habits in simple but powerful ways:

• While driving, I practice sermons or presentations. My car becomes a mobile rehearsal hall.
• In the shower, I listen to podcasts or recordings — yes, multitasking cleanliness and personal growth.
• When I eat, I often read a book. It nourishes both my body and my mind.

These habit stacks have multiplied my growth without feeling like extra work.

Turn Knowledge Into Power

At the end of the day, knowledge alone isn’t power — the application of knowledge is power. You already know habits matter. Now it’s time to put them into practice.

Start small. Stack wisely. Lower the barriers. Reward yourself. Before long, you’ll realize your habits aren’t chores — they’re the superpowers fueling your success.

So here’s the challenge: don’t just read this. Go apply it. You already have the knowledge — now it’s time to unlock your power.

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! 

Pride and Identity

When people think about college, they often imagine long nights studying, game days, and new friendships. But at Southern University and A&M College, there’s something even deeper that shapes our experience: our traditions.

From Pretty Wednesdays to Red Bean Mondays and the excitement of Homecoming, these customs are the heartbeat of our campus. They bring students, alumni, and faculty together, creating a strong sense of community and pride. In this blog, I’ll share more about these beloved traditions and why they’re such an important part of Southern’s identity.

Red Bean Mondays

Red Bean Mondays are a delicious tradition rooted in Southern and Louisiana culture. In many households across the region, red beans and rice are served on Mondays, and Southern University keeps that tradition alive on campus.

It’s not just about the food. It’s about the feeling. Sharing a familiar meal brings students, faculty, and staff together in a way that feels like home. Whether you’re grabbing a plate after class or sitting down with friends, Red Bean Monday offers comfort, community, and a taste of tradition to start the week off right.

Pretty Wednesdays

Every other Wednesday at Southern University isn’t just a regular day. It’s Pretty Wednesday. On these special days, students dress to impress, music fills the yard, and the campus comes alive with energy. It’s a time to celebrate self-expression, connect with classmates, and enjoy the vibrant culture that makes Southern unique.

From stylish outfits to spontaneous dance battles and student vendors, Pretty Wednesday is more than a social gathering; it’s a tradition that brings us all together. It adds excitement to the week and gives us a chance to celebrate who we are: confident, creative, and connected.

Homecoming Week

Homecoming at Southern is more than just a football game. It’s a weeklong celebration of pride, legacy, and unity. Alumni return from across the country, student organizations host exciting events, and the campus fills with energy and school spirit.

From the parade to the step shows, tailgates, concerts, and the big game, Homecoming is a time when Jaguars past and present come together to celebrate our shared history. It’s one of the most anticipated events of the year and a true example of what it means to be part of the Southern family.

Southern Traditions

Campus traditions like Pretty Wednesdays, Red Bean Mondays, and Homecoming aren’t just campus events. They’re part of what makes Southern University feel like home.

Traditions connect us to those who came before us while creating memories that will last a lifetime. These experiences strengthen our sense of community and remind us why we’re proud to be Jaguars.

As we continue to celebrate and share these traditions, we keep them alive for future generations. And that’s what makes Southern not just a college, but a family.

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! 

As the school year progresses, many college students find themselves toiling away at a computer and spending most of the week studying. But every now and then, it’s important to step away from the grind and just be a regular person!

Everyone needs rest, especially during the stressful season of finals. Taking a break helps you be more productive afterwards and restores some of your focus for the rest of the week.

So, how can you achieve this balance? Here are a few ideas to help you de-stress after a long day of work:

Origami as a Reward

Origami is a Japanese art form that involves creating 3D figures by folding a piece of paper. All you need is a couple of sheets of paper and a design you want to attempt. This makes the craft both affordable and easy to do anywhere.

Need some ideas on what to fold? Beginners often start with lucky stars, cranes, or flowers. There are plenty of online resources to guide you through each step. Try folding a heart for yourself every time you complete a set of problems as a reward for your hard work.

"Claying" Around with Friends

Everyone deserves a break! Bring a small pack of clay to your next group study session or invite a friend to join you for some amateur sculpting. Sculpt silly shapes or new decor and share a laugh over your creations.

Studying for long periods can lead to burnout. Working with something tactile like clay engages new areas of your brain, giving your mind a chance to relax and regroup before the next study session.

Deep Art Sessions

Sometimes, short breaks just don’t cut it. After hours of work, mental fatigue can feel inescapable. In moments like these, it’s essential to step away from the work completely.

Art is a wonderful outlet for expressing emotions and promoting relaxation. Use an artistic activity as a way to engage in a longer, deeper break. Draw, paint, journal, or do any of the activities above; indulge in whatever creative activity helps you forget your to-do list for a while.

Get Creative with Assignments

College is all about working hard to build a better future, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your artistic side. If it’s professor-approved, you can also add artistic elements to your final projects. Use tools like Canva or PowerPoint for presentations, or write something creative with an artistic summary instead of an essay.

For those in technical fields, decorating and organizing your notes can be a fun way to visually engage with complex information. Adding a bit of personality to your work is also a visual reminder that you’re creating something for yourself with your studies.

Take a Break and Have Fun!

Ultimately, how you choose to de-stress is up to you. While studies have shown that art can reduce stress, the best method is always the one that works for you.

And if crafts aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other ways to unwind. Watching a movie, cooking a delicious meal, or exercising are all great alternatives.

The most important thing is to be intentional about taking breaks to focus on something you enjoy. Your grades, your focus, and your well-being will thank you for it!

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!