Students blog

Graduation: Incoming

As I get closer to crossing the stage and entering uncharted territory, one question gets louder: “What’s next?”

For my fellow seniors, thoughts about what’s next might be hitting a little harder as our collegiate chapter ends. Sometimes it feels like a million thoughts run through your head, ranging from hopeful and excited to nervous and doubtful.

If you’ve felt that pressure, here’s a reminder to pause and be present as we figure it out.

Football to Filmmaking

I came to campus as an eager, hot-blooded teenager who couldn’t wait to get my fill of the “college experience.” I joined the football team, made friends, and went to events. But I didn’t expect my feelings toward football to change, and that led to my first real identity crisis.

My passion for the sport was dwindling, and I was scared. Without football, I didn’t know what else I’d do.

I tried to straddle the fence for a while, but a serious concussion made the choice for me. That was the first time I truly asked myself, “What’s next?” I was lost.

Over time, uncertainty weighed on me, and my outlook grew darker. I questioned everything: Who am I? Who do I want to become? Did I make the wrong decision to quit? Should I even stay in college?

Those thoughts ran heavy, but eventually I decided to take things one day at a time. After months of going through the motions without direction, I thought, “Why not give video a try?” I had no idea how to shoot, edit, or craft a story, yet I had always loved stories.

That small step opened the door to what’s now my passion. Storytelling and filmmaking have become my lane. For me, picking up a camera became my way of learning to see the world in front of me.

Senior Reflections

Looking back, I realize I was so in my own head that I didn’t allow myself to enjoy the process. Even in moments of joy and triumph, I was focused on “what’s next.”

My college experience forced me to confront something I’ve always known: I’m a chronic overthinker. That’s why I’m shifting my perspective this year.

I’m in awe that I’m really here, still standing. My journey through college has prepared me and shaped me into who I am today.

I am ready to take on what’s ahead, even if I have no idea what the future will look like. As I prepare to close one chapter and begin another, I like to remind myself that we’re still in the middle of writing our life story.

Sure, sometimes I wish I could look into a crystal ball and make a list of all my future mistakes, so I can try to create a safe, smooth ride. But truthfully, what fun is that?

Every experience, every rose, matters. Our mistakes, detours, and challenges—our stories—make us who we are. Even when you’re looking straight ahead, ready to take on what’s next, it’s always good to stop and smell the roses.

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! 

For as long as I can remember, Emma Watson has been one of my favorite celebrities. It isn’t often that we see strong, well-read, and educated women in popular media who are passionate about promoting empowerment. Watson embodies all of that.

Every time I hear her speak or watch her on a red carpet, I get chills. She’s poised and calm, yet somehow captures both raw emotion and intelligence in nearly every response. Because I admire her so much, I was thrilled when I saw she would be a guest on an upcoming podcast. The day the episode was released, I put on my coziest clothes, settled in, and pressed play.

Content vs. Comments

The conversation touched on many topics, from navigating public life to love, marriage, and continued self-discovery. But when I scrolled through the comments, I noticed something striking: no one was talking about what Watson had said. Instead, nearly all the attention was on her appearance. The top comment read: “Wow, so nice to see a natural face in Hollywood! What beautiful wrinkles.”

For context, Watson has maintained her aversion to fillers and Botox despite the pressures of a Hollywood career. Personally, I think this makes her even more stunning. However, the flood of comments revealed something extremely troubling: people were shocked that a woman Watson’s age looked… natural.

Lived Experience

We live in an era of hyper-feminization and youth obsession, where it seems there’s a med spa on every corner. Even at my dentist’s office, I was casually offered to start the “baby Botox” routine at my next cleaning to get ahead of the wrinkles. At the ripe age of 20, society is already concerned I might look like I’ve aged.

The message is everywhere: aging is a problem to be solved, not a natural process to be lived. This can create an endless cycle of treatments. The initial goal of preserving youth gives way to an ongoing chase to ‘fix’ the latest result.

And it's an experience that often affects women in a unique way. Though aging affects everyone, women bear the brunt of society’s panic about it. Men are often celebrated as they age; “silver fox” is a compliment. Women? No such term exists.

Truthfully, I don’t understand our obsession with erasing the signs of a life well-lived. Our bodies are more than ornaments; they’re vessels of deep experience. They show signs of joy, love, and labor. Our wrinkles highlight the joy we expressed, and our stretch marks and scars highlight the beauty of reproduction.

Reverence for Aging

I urge you: let your body exist as it is. I want my face to look lived in—because I have lived in it. What an honor to have laughed so much that I carry creases near my smile. What an honor to have smiled so hard that crow’s feet etched themselves near my eyes. What an honor to have lived a life so full that my face shows it.

It isn’t easy to resist the constant pressure to look forever young, but maybe real beauty is found not in denying time, but in embracing it. Your natural face, in all its glory, deserves to exist without shame, without guilt, and without apology.

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! 

A Commuter’s Perspective

When I first started college, I never imagined how challenging it would be to get involved on campus as a commuter student. I often left campus in the late afternoon and headed straight home. By the time most events happened, I was already settled in for the night. On top of that, I’m naturally introverted, so the thought of showing up to large gatherings felt intimidating.

For a while, I convinced myself that campus life just wasn’t for me. However, joining the Latin American Student Organization (LASO) showed me the true value of campus involvement and transformed my college experience.

How Joining a Club Changed My Experience

During my first year, I took a chance and went to a LASO meeting even though I didn’t feel ready. I didn’t know anyone, and it felt easier to stick to my usual routine of going to class and driving home.

As a commuter, it’s easy to feel like campus is temporary, like you’re just passing through instead of belonging somewhere. I had no idea how much that one step would end up shaping my experience.

Over time, LASO became more than just a student organization to me. It turned into a place where I met people who understood my culture, shared my values, and helped me feel seen. I began staying on campus longer, attending socials, and saying yes to events I would have skipped before.

Eventually, I stepped into a leadership role as Marketing Chair on the executive board. In this role, I helped plan events, run social media, and collaborate with other organizations. Taking on that role challenged me in the best ways and helped me grow beyond the limits I had set for myself.

Leadership brought experiences I never expected. I’ve tabled at events, met students I wouldn’t have crossed paths with otherwise, and gained confidence in talking to new people.

As someone who’s always been introverted, I realized that being a leader isn’t about being loud. It’s about being intentional, creating space for others, and representing a community you care about.

Finding My Place(s) on Campus

Getting involved in LASO also made it easier to explore other organizations. I recently joined Women in Business (WIB) and participated in events like Coffee with WIB, recruiter panels, and even a season finale watch party for The Summer I Turned Pretty. I’ve attended other campus events like waffle night, and even small moments like those have helped me feel more connected.

Looking back, I’m grateful I didn’t let commuting or being introverted keep me from getting involved. It wasn’t always easy to stay on campus longer or walk into a room alone, but the friendships, opportunities, and confidence I’ve gained have made it worth it.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that involvement doesn’t look the same for everyone. You don’t have to live on campus or be outgoing to find your place.

Sometimes all it takes is showing up once and giving yourself a chance to explore something new. For me, that one step changed everything. It can do the same for other students who feel like campus isn’t built for them.

You don’t have to be everywhere or do everything to be involved. You just have to start somewhere.

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! 

Many college students know the struggle of heading to an 8:00 a.m. lecture, half-asleep after a long night of studying. Years of waking up before sunrise in high school taught me that my best days don’t start with rushing to class.

I’ve found that taking classes at night has improved my sleep, boosted my productivity, and promoted a healthier learning environment. In this blog, I’ll share my success with evening courses, from improving my sleep and flexibility to enhancing my academic success.

Scheduling Freedom with Late Classes

Sleep is a word I had nearly forgotten as a college student. But what if there were a way to make it familiar again?

College has been a transformative time for me, and the scenery isn't the only thing that has changed. My entire schedule shifted as I learned to juggle lectures, studying, work, clubs, and a social life. With so much to balance while finding my footing in adulthood, prioritizing my sleep has been a challenge.

For me, night classes have offered a solution to this struggle. When my class starts at 7 p.m. instead of 7 a.m., I can recharge before loading my brain with new knowledge. I’ve found that going to class groggy isn’t ideal for my learning style, so I prefer going at night when I’m more alert.

During the day, I can eat an energy-packed, nutritious meal, work on homework, attend clubs, and complete my to-do list. By evening, I can focus completely on class, knowing I’ve already accomplished my other daily tasks. Afterward, all that’s left is to get a good night’s sleep, ensuring I’m refreshed for the next day.

Academic Benefits from Evening Classes

Not only have night courses improved my sleep, but they have also improved my academic performance. When I’m tired, it’s harder for me to absorb new information or recall what I’ve already learned.

Instead of cramming for an exam until 3 a.m., I can use my free time during the day to study under optimal conditions. I've found this leads to better overall academic confidence and even performance. Additionally, having time during the day to review assignments has helped prevent me from missing important deadlines that I might otherwise have missed.

Ultimately, attending night classes has helped me regulate my sleep schedule and boost my academic performance. Getting better rest has helped me use my free time more effectively, creating a healthier and more productive learning environment. When course registration rolls around, you might consider if night classes are the right choice for you, too.

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! 

Let’s be honest… student teaching is exciting, challenging, and a little nerve-wracking all at once! You’re now stepping into the classroom not just to observe, but to actually teach, inspire, and learn alongside your students.

As someone who has completed two semesters of student teaching, I’m here to pass along what I’ve learned. These five essential tips will help you make the most of your journey with stability, preparation, and confidence.

1. Build Strong Relationships Early

From day one, invest time in learning your students’ names, interests, and personalities. Show genuine curiosity and care, and don’t be afraid to have some fun! This is one of the fastest ways to earn your students' trust. It will also help you design tailored lesson plans and determine which classroom management techniques will work best.

Building rapport with your mentor teacher and other school staff is equally important—they are your greatest allies and support system!

2. Keep a “Lesson Journal”

After each lesson, jot down what worked, what didn’t, and what you might tweak next time. Include any ideas you have for future lessons, planning, or student feedback. Don’t just focus on your mistakes (because you will make them, and they are valuable lessons to learn); remember to celebrate all the little victories too!

This reflective habit will accelerate your growth and provide a record of ideas and strategies to carry into your first teaching job.

3. Prepare… But Stay Flexible

Detailed planning is important, but classrooms are living, breathing spaces. A fire drill, a tech glitch, or an unexpected student question can take you in a new direction: embrace it! Flexibility doesn’t mean losing control; it means adapting to the moment while keeping your learning goals in sight.

4. Develop Your “Teacher Voice” (Literally and Figuratively)

You don’t need to shout to command respect, but you do need presence. As a student teacher, you’re in a unique spot. You’re not the main authority, but you’re still a key leader in the classroom.

Practice speaking clearly and calmly, and use pauses for emphasis. Finding your voice takes time, so don’t be afraid to experiment and reflect on what works best for you.

5. Take Care of You!

Teaching is exhausting! It’s easy to burn out when you’re pouring so much energy into lesson planning, grading, and managing a classroom.

Prioritize rest, nutrition, and downtime (yes, you’re allowed to have a life outside of teaching!). Lean on your mentor teacher for support, both academically and emotionally. A rested teacher is a better teacher.

Student teaching isn’t just about proving yourself; it’s about learning, growing, and discovering who you are as an educator. Keep your survival kit close, be a sponge, and remember: you’ve 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! 

When I first started college, I thought I could get by doing what I had always done in high school: waiting until the last minute and cramming the night before. That approach worked for a while, until I found myself juggling multiple classes, extracurriculars, a part-time job, and what felt like endless deadlines. I was constantly exhausted and falling behind. I knew something had to change.

The turning point came when I missed a major project deadline that significantly impacted my grade. I realized I wasn’t just jeopardizing my academic success, but I was also burning out. That’s when I decided to overhaul how I managed my time. I wasn’t trying to become perfect overnight; I just needed better systems.

Calendar Blocking: Map Your Week

First, I started using calendar blocking. Every Sunday, I’d sit down and map out the upcoming week in my calendar. This included class times, study sessions, meals, and even breaks. This practice helped me see where my time was really going and allowed me to plan ahead for big assignments.

Eisenhower Matrix: Prioritize Tasks

I also learned about the Eisenhower Matrix, a method for prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance. This tool helped me avoid the trap of “urgent but unimportant” tasks (like constantly checking emails). Instead, I could focus on meaningful activities, such as studying for an exam or finishing a paper early.

Digital Boundaries: Avoid Distractions

Another game-changer was setting digital boundaries. I turned off most notifications on my phone and used website blockers to keep me off distracting sites while studying. It wasn’t easy at first, especially when all my friends were texting about weekend plans. However, I found that even short, focused study sessions became more productive.

Patience Over Perfection: Give Yourself Grace

Most importantly, I gave myself grace. Some weeks I stuck to my schedule perfectly; other times, life happened. But instead of giving up, I treated every week as a fresh start.

Now, I still get busy, but I don’t feel overwhelmed. I sleep more, stress less, and even have time to do things I enjoy, like reading and spending time with friends. Managing your time in college isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being intentional. And trust me, once you take control of your schedule, everything else starts to feel more manageable.

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 thought I knew exactly what I wanted to do when I entered college. I was adamant about choosing a degree that would fit my interests and professional objectives. However, as the semesters passed, I realized things weren't going as well as I had hoped.

I was having trouble keeping up with the requirements of my curriculum, and my grades started to decline. Understanding the subject matter wasn't enough; I was also overburdened and, to be honest, ill-prepared for the time management techniques I would need to be successful.

I initially tried to persevere, believing things would improve if I put in more effort. However, despite my best efforts, I was unable to strike a balance. I eventually had to acknowledge that this was not the right path for me. I made the difficult decision to switch my major after giving it a lot of thought and having some painful talks with mentors and family.

Resetting the Clock on Time Management

It felt like a fresh start when I changed my major. I wasn't sure if I was making the right decision because I was entering a field with which I wasn't familiar. In addition, I had to address the behaviors that had first caused my problems, particularly my ineffective time management. I knew that improving my time management skills, staying on top of homework, and balancing my personal and academic lives were essential to succeed in this new major.

I began by establishing modest, achievable objectives for myself. I made a plan to prioritize my tasks and divided my responsibilities into smaller, more realistic chunks. When I needed assistance, I learned to ask for it from instructors, fellow students, or campus resources. I eventually discovered a rhythm that suited me.

Discovering New Passion in a New Major

What surprised me the most was how much I ended up loving my new major. I initially made the change out of necessity, but as I got deeper into the coursework, I realized that this was where I was meant to be. The subject matter fascinated me more than I expected, and I felt more engaged and motivated than ever before. It was a reminder that, sometimes, the best opportunities come from moments when life doesn’t go as planned.

Growth Through Self-Awareness and Adaptability

I learned more from this experience than just the material for a new major. I gained the ability to take charge of my academic path and adjust when things don't go as planned. I also learned how crucial it is to be truthful with myself about my advantages and disadvantages and to make the required adjustments to position myself for success. Most significantly, I came to understand that it is when we venture outside of our comfort zones that we grow.

One of the most difficult but also the best decisions I've ever made was switching my major. It forced me to become more self-aware, more disciplined, and more confident in my capacity to overcome obstacles. I’m grateful for the challenges because they led me to a field I love, proving that sometimes the path we don’t plan is the best one.

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! 

January 1: You wake up bright and early. It’s a new year, and you feel like a new person with a fresh set of goals. You plan to spend more time outside, go to the gym every day, and stay on top of all your assignments.

Then February hits. Your gym sends you a text message saying they miss you. It’s been days since you’ve seen the light of day, and you’re two weeks behind on your lectures.

If you’re worried this will happen again next year (and the next), use this how-to guide to stick to your New Year's resolutions.

Step 1: Set Small, Realistic Goals

It’s easy to get ambitious and set huge goals, but this can be unrealistic, especially when your motivation inevitably dips. Rather than setting a goal to go to the gym every day, set a goal to move your body for thirty minutes instead. Sometimes, a simple walk around your neighborhood is easier to commit to than driving to the gym for a full workout.

Step 2: Find an Accountability Partner

I’ll be the first to admit it’s easy to let go of goals when no one else knows about them. If no one is going to question your progress, it makes it much easier to quit.

That’s where an accountability partner comes in. It could be a family member, roommate, partner, or friend. Their job is to hold you responsible and encourage you to stay on track.

Didn’t stick to your goal? They’ll motivate you to try again. Plus, embarking on a journey is always easier when you're not alone.

Step 3: The Two-Month Commitment

On average, it takes a little more than two months of consistent practice to form a new habit (Lally et al., 2009). If you commit to achieving your goal for two months, these actions can develop into a habit and, eventually, a lifestyle.

Instead of overwhelming yourself with a year-long commitment, focus on the next two months. It makes the whole thing seem less intimidating. Before you know it, you’ll have created a new routine.

Step 4: It’s a Privilege

Eventually, keeping up with your New Year's resolutions will feel as effortless as any other habit. Still, some days will be a lot easier than others.

On days when motivation seems elusive, try reframing your thoughts about your to-do list. Instead of saying, “I have to,” try saying, “I get to.” For example: “I get to move my body every day,” “I get to have an amazing education,” “I get to fuel my body with good things,” or “I get to enjoy nature.” Every day is a privilege and recognizing this can help you feel more grateful for your life.

Through it all, remember to love yourself and give yourself grace. Better yet, add that goal to the top of your list.

Bibliography

Lally, Phillippa, van Jaarsveld, Cornelia H. M., Potts, Henry W. W., and Wardle, Jane. “How Are Habits Formed: Modelling Habit Formation in the Real World.” European Journal of Social Psychology 40, no. 6 (July 2009): 998–1009. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejsp.674.

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 fall semester comes to an end and finals begin, college students face endless readings, problem sets, and late-night study sessions. But once the work is finally done, exams are submitted, and essays are written, nothing feels better than sinking into the couch, grabbing a snack, and launching a good old-fashioned, TV marathon. Here are four shows worth lining up to pass the time during winter break... so go relax, you've earned it!

1. Yellowjackets

If you haven’t been pulled into the chaos yet, now is the time. Yellowjackets is the perfect mix of psychological thriller, survival horror, and messy coming-of-age drama. The show follows a high school girls’ soccer team stranded in the wilderness after a plane crash. The story bounces between their terrifying fight to survive in the ’90s and the dark fallout in their adult lives. It’s got cult vibes, mystery boxes, and the kind of “I need to know what happens next” cliffhangers that will absolutely ruin your sleep schedule—in the best way possible.

2. We Were Liars

Based on the wildly popular YA novel by E. Lockhart, We Were Liars is gearing up to be an experience when it hits Prime Video. Set on a private island off Massachusetts, the story follows a wealthy family hiding dangerous secrets. It’s told through the eyes of Cadence Sinclair, who is struggling to piece together the events of a previous and pivotal summer. Think Pretty Little Liars energy but with more psychological twists and a beach-goth atmosphere. Perfect for curling up and losing track of time.

3. Timeless

This recommendation is a personal favorite of mine! It’s not a new show, but it has a timeless plot (no pun intended). This time-travel adventure follows a historian, a soldier, and a scientist as they chase a rogue operative through America’s past, from the Hindenburg disaster to Watergate. Each episode blends action, clever storytelling, and real historical events while weaving in deeper questions about identity, morality, and the power of rewriting history. Suspenseful yet heartfelt, Timeless is perfect for anyone who craves high-stakes drama, fascinating “what ifs,” and a touch of history.

4. Stranger Things, Season 5

The long-awaited final chapter of the Hawkins story will arrive in three volumes. The first drops on November 26, with later releases on December 25 and December 31. Expect Eleven, Mike, and the gang to face their darkest, most harrowing threat yet, with all the supernatural scares and nostalgic charm we’ve come to love in the previous seasons.

Bonus Watch: The Bear

And if you’re hungry too, check out The Bear. This award-winning dramedy follows “Carmy,” a young chef who takes over his family’s sandwich shop in Chicago. He tries to transform it into something great while barely holding his own life together. It’s chaotic, funny, and unexpectedly heartfelt, with dialogue that moves as fast as the kitchen itself. Just be warned: you’ll probably find yourself craving Italian beef by the second episode.

Whether you’re in the mood for survival horror, family drama, or supernatural throwdowns, these shows are tailor-made for late-night marathons after long days of school and life. Stock up on snacks, silence the notifications, and let mind wander around new worlds for a while!

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!