Students blog

Throughout our lives—especially in high school and early college—we’re often encouraged to make memories, embrace new experiences, seize opportunities, and build connections. College advisors and professors frequently emphasize the importance of networking and forming relationships within your campus community. However, it’s not as common to hear advice about creating connections beyond your college environment.

One of the most transformative opportunities available during your college years is studying abroad. Studying abroad presents countless possibilities and benefits. It’s an accessible option for many students, as financial aid can often be applied toward these programs, making it a cost-effective way to explore the world. Beyond affordability, it fosters meaningful connections, whether with fellow students in the program or individuals you meet during your travels. The experiences gained while studying abroad have a profound impact on both your personal and professional growth. They allow you to broaden your cultural understanding, challenge preconceived biases, and develop a more inclusive perspective of the world. By immersing yourself in a new culture, you enhance your ability to navigate global environments and gain a deeper appreciation for diversity.

Let’s explore some of the professional and personal benefits of studying abroad that can enhance your growth and provide you with a distinct competitive edge over other candidates in the job market. Professionally, it enhances cross-cultural communication skills, enabling students to navigate and collaborate across diverse cultures—an invaluable asset in global workplaces. It also provides a broader perspective, equipping students with a deeper understanding of international markets and the adaptability to thrive in various cultural contexts. Additionally, many study abroad programs include opportunities for international internships, giving students invaluable hands-on experience in global work environments.

On a personal level, studying abroad fosters self-confidence, independence, and resilience. Living in a foreign environment encourages self-reliance and problem-solving, while exposure to different backgrounds and cultures strengthens interpersonal skills, making it easier to connect and collaborate with others. Students also develop greater flexibility and adaptability as they overcome challenges such as language barriers, preparing them to handle future obstacles with poise and persistence.

Overall, the experience not only enriches students’ professional profiles but also shapes their character, leaving them better prepared for the complexities of both life and career. Ultimately, studying abroad enriches your worldview and equips you with invaluable skills that will resonate throughout your life and career.

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Being a college student can be a financial struggle. Working a few hours, spending money on food, gas, clothes, and going out, all while trying not to go completely broke – I’ve been there, done that. Here are a few ways I have learned to save money.

Share a ride

After living in a sorority house with 67 girls, I’ve picked up a few tips that have saved me money so far in my sophomore year. First, carpooling can make a big difference. Whether we’re heading to an event or grabbing food, coordinating rides with friends not only saves on gas but also helps avoid parking fees. It’s amazing how much you can save by simply sharing a ride. If you're in college, I highly recommend creating group chats with friends to coordinate carpooling—it’s an easy and effective way to cut down on costs.

Rent or borrow clothes

Second, rather than buying a new outfit for every function, consider renting clothes or borrowing from others. There are at least five different Instagram accounts of girls just within my house who are constantly renting clothes. This has come in handy for sorority and fraternity functions, as well as gamedays, so I didn’t have to worry about going out and buying new clothes. Instead, I would rent a dress for $15, wash it, and then return it. It’s an affordable way to upgrade without the commitment of a full-price purchase.

Save on meals

Lastly, when you go to restaurants, I always either split meals, get a kids' meal, or choose a meal that's big enough to create leftovers. At the sorority house, we only have access to food on weekdays, so on weekends, I’ve had to find the most cost-effective ways to eat out. My favorite meal on a budget is the Chipotle $5 kids' quesadilla.

While college can be expensive, there are many ways you can work with others and get creative to save money. Small habits like these can add up and help ease the financial burden that often comes with being a student. The key is to stay open to alternatives and be mindful of your spending. With a little planning and collaboration, you can make college life more affordable without sacrificing your experiences.

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Before stepping foot on campus, you are often bombarded with stories about college — tales of life-changing experiences, academic achievements, and unforgettable social moments. These stories, while well-intentioned, can sometimes create an overwhelming sense of expectation. The pressure to succeed, be involved, and make every moment count can make it feel as though you are chasing an ideal rather than crafting your own experience. However, college is a deeply personal journey, and learning to filter external expectations is key to finding confidence in yourself.

If someone tells you that joining multiple organizations was the highlight of their college life, you might feel pressured to do the same—even if balancing multiple extracurriculars isn’t what you want. Or another individual might tell you success in college means landing prestigious internships or graduating with honors, so you chase the highly coveted title of “academic weapon.” A common one that you’ll hear is that college is about personal growth, forming meaningful relationships, or simply making it through each semester while maintaining a healthy balance, so you lay back and chill out, which may stress you out more.

Granted, advice from friends, family, and professors can be valuable, offering insights you might not have considered, and it’s okay to take guidance from those who have walked this path before you. But their experiences should serve as reference points rather than blueprints, and success in college is not one-size-fits-all. What worked for someone else may not necessarily work for you, and that’s perfectly fine.

The key is defining what success looks like for you and allowing that definition to evolve as you grow. Instead of following someone else’s version of success, reflect on your own goals
and personality. Are you happiest when deeply involved in a few meaningful activities, or do you thrive in a wide range of experiences? College is about discovering what fulfills you, not about replicating someone else’s path.

Start by setting personal goals based on what truly matters to you. Maybe your priority is exploring new academic interests, or perhaps you want to focus on mental well-being while maintaining a solid GPA. Whatever your goals may be, they should align with your values, not with what others expect of you. It’s easy to get caught up in comparison, especially in a world where social media highlights everyone’s best moments. Seeing peers securing dream internships, acing exams, or attending endless social events can make you question whether you’re doing enough. But remember: people showcase their successes, not their struggles. When you start to feel overwhelmed by external expectations, take a step back. Limit your exposure to sources that fuel unnecessary pressure. Unfollow accounts that make you doubt your own progress, and instead, seek out spaces that support and encourage your unique journey. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, not those who make you feel inadequate.

And to close this article out, remember that there’s no universal timeline for success. Some people find their passion in their first year, while others take time to explore. Some land their dream job right after graduation, while others carve their own unconventional paths. Your journey is yours alone, and it’s okay if it doesn’t mirror someone else’s. Growth and fulfillment don’t follow a strict schedule. College is a time of exploration, growth, and self-discovery. While it’s helpful to listen to advice and learn from others, the most important thing is to remain true to yourself. Define your own version of success, take the advice that resonates with you, and have the confidence to carve your own path. By doing so, you will create a colorful college experience that is a combination of all the advice you have received — all on your own.

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It’s common that when students graduate from high school, they still don’t know what they want to major in when transitioning to college. Often students don’t even know where to start, but it can be an easier process if you know yourself and are confident in yourself.

The first thing to do is ask yourself three questions. The first question is what am I most interested in? You can help figure this out by list the things you enjoy learning about or being a part of. The second question is what am I most successful at? This is one of the most important things to know about yourself so you can be confident in your capabilities. You want to be able to utilize as many of your skills as possible so college can be a breeze. The last question to ask yourself is about the lifestyle you want to have after college. How much money you want to make, how much free time you want, and what work environment you would like?

When you list all these things you want mixed with the things you know about yourself, you can research professions that combine all the things you enjoy. You can also look up the different degree requirements for the occupation that stick out to you. This will ensure that you are using your skills and knowledge to do the things you want to do, so you can get the things you want out of life.

This process won’t confirm that students won’t change their major or profession, but it gives a good sense of direction of where you may want to go. This process highlights where your priorities are in life and what your realistic expectations for yourself are.

College is meant to be a fun experience so you can get the tools necessary to live your life in the way that is right and comfortable for you. It is important to know when you go, know why you are going and how you are going to achieve 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! 

College life is an exciting but demanding time, often filled with late-night study sessions, social events, and mounting academic pressure. With such a packed schedule, students may find it challenging to prioritize their health and wellness. However, maintaining well-being is essential for success both inside and outside the classroom. Here are some practical ways to stay healthy in college.

Staying active is crucial for both physical and mental health. While it may be difficult to fit in a full workout routine, students can incorporate movement into their daily activities by walking or biking to class, using campus fitness centers, or engaging in short home workouts. Regular exercise helps improve mood, boost energy levels, and enhance overall well-being.

A nutritious diet is another key component of a healthy college lifestyle. It’s tempting to rely on fast food or late-night snacks, but choosing balanced meals with lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can make a significant difference. Students can meal prep, keep healthy snacks on hand, and make mindful food choices to maintain their energy levels and concentration throughout the day.

Sleep is often sacrificed in college, but it is crucial for cognitive function and emotional well-being. Aiming for 7-9 hours of sleep each night can improve memory, focus, and overall health. Establishing a bedtime routine, limiting screen time before bed, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can enhance sleep quality.

Managing stress effectively is essential for overall wellness. College can be overwhelming, but practicing mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and journaling can help alleviate stress. Students should also use time management strategies, such as setting realistic goals and following structured study plans, to reduce academic pressure.

Staying hydrated is another simple yet vital aspect of maintaining good health. Drinking at least 8 cups of water a day can help sustain energy levels, prevent dehydration, and improve focus. Avoiding excessive caffeine and sugary drinks can further support overall well-being.

Finally, social connections play a vital role in mental health. Taking breaks to engage in social activities, join clubs, or simply connect with friends can reduce feelings of loneliness and increase happiness. Most colleges offer wellness resources, including counseling, fitness programs, and nutrition guidance. Utilizing these resources can support students in maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

By making intentional choices and prioritizing self-care, college students can enhance their health and wellness, leading to better academic performance and a more fulfilling college experience.

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! 

Communication is the foundation of education; furthermore, it is the foundation of society. How many times a day do you ask a question? How about asking a friend to study? Or even something more critical like discussing a grade with a professor? As college students, we use our voices relentlessly, whether in social, academic, or professional settings. Professors communicate their well-known knowledge to eager students ready to jump-start their careers. However, it may not be that simple for every student. Many students face language barriers that create challenges both in and out of the classroom. Whether due to disabilities, language differences, or communication disorders, students who struggle to communicate miss critical opportunities. Thankfully, accessibility services help students work around these barriers and access education.

Before studying language and communication in my undergraduate courses, I thought accessibility meant extra time on exams or wheelchair ramps. However, accessibility is much broader. Communication tools like augmentative or alternative communication (AAC) devices, interpreters, and assistive technology, support students with visual, auditory, mobility, or cognitive challenges. Recognizing the privilege of effortless communication is essential.

Communication accessibility is a crucial support in education. Millions of individuals, from young children to those in higher education, face communication challenges. Despite these difficulties, accessibility services provide essential support. One of the most valuable systems is AAC. These tools range from low-tech communication boards to high-tech speech-generating devices. Communication is not limited to spoken words—it includes a variety of methods. AAC devices allow individuals to express their thoughts, engage in classrooms, and interact with peers and educators. For students with conditions such as Autism, Cerebral Palsy, or aphasia, AACs provide alternative communication where traditional speech may be difficult. Implementing these devices in schools fosters inclusivity and supports education.

Beyond AAC devices, many other accessibility services assist learners. Interpreters are vital in education, helping students who speak different languages or use sign language. Learning about the Deaf community and its history has deepened my understanding of accessibility. Deaf students were once forced to use oral methods despite the challenges, limiting their educational opportunities. The focus was on assimilation rather than individual development. This issue extends beyond Deaf history to broader societal attitudes toward disabilities. Recognizing andadvocating for accessibility services in education is essential.

Additional assistive tools benefit students with physical and cognitive disabilities. Screen readers and text-to-speech software support visually impaired students, while Braille materials and tactile graphics provide crucial access to information. Adaptive keyboards assist individuals with mobility impairments, and wheelchair-accessible classrooms ensure physical accessibility. While these services exist, more advocacy is needed to raise awareness and ensure implementation. Despite progress, challenges remain in educational accessibility. A lack of awareness and understanding hinders the expansion of essential services.

Accessibility is not a want—it is a necessity. Breaking down barriers in education requires more than technology; it requires a cultural shift toward inclusion. Supportive services create environments where all students can succeed. As students, we must advocate for our peers and promote accessibility in education. By making education more inclusive, we empower students to become active learners and achievers.

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College is an interesting place, one day you think you have life figured out and the next you are lost. I started college as an Architecture major and now I am graduating as a Communications major. Keep reading if you want to find out how I chose my major.

General Education Classes

When my advisor said to explore classes outside of my major, I naturally decided to only pick classes within the architecture major. Unfortunately (or fortunately), my plans were disrupted when all of the classes were taken, and I was forced to follow my advisor’s suggestion. To my surprise I ended up hating my only architecture class but loving my psychology and communications classes.

Clubs

With an infinite list of clubs, finding one I liked felt like working on a highly complicated project that could alter my life forever (ok..maybe I was being a little dramatic but as an indecisive person this task was difficult). After signing up for more clubs than I can count I ended up committing to the Hall Council. We were responsible for organizing activities for our building and collaborating with the Resident Assistance. This made me aware of my passion for working in teams, managing projects, and studying people’s behaviors to better cater to them.

Self-Reflection

After joining multiple organizations and living the college life for a year, I reflected on all my experiences and made a list of all the jobs that I saw myself doing based on the skills I’ve gained and what I’ve discovered about myself. Once I had the list finalized, I ranked them and looked up what the three highest positions actually entailed.

Choice

With the list of jobs narrowed down to my top three, all I needed to do was pick. Difficult for sure, but not impossible. Time told me what I searched for, showing me the right path along the way. Looking back at my choices and comparing it to my passion guided me towards just the right major for me.

Why?

When people asked me why I wanted to be an architect, my mind went blank. The truth is there wasn’t a reason, I just picked something and moved on. Now, when someone asks why I chose Communications, my eyes spark with joy and my heart races telling endless stories that made me who I am today.

To make it simpler for you. I came up with a series of steps you can follow to make choosing a major less intimidating.

Key Steps to Find the Perfect Major

1. Take general education classes and allow yourself to explore multiple fields
2. Join clubs that spark your interest
3. Find a mentor within a club/class and ask for guidance
4. Do some self-reflection and come up with jobs that you see yourself doing in the future
5. Make a list of three to five jobs and learn more about them
6. Decide which major fits your interests and aspirations best
7. Ask yourself, why did I choose this major?

By the end of these steps, you should have an idea of what you want to major in. However, if you cannot answer the question on step seven it is time to go back to step 1. Repeat this process as many times as you need and remember that it is never too late to change your path. Remember, ultimately, we all have the same goal, to be happy. If you don't feel passionate about your career, then reconsider your options and start again. The path is there, you just have to find it. Allow yourself to wander and get lost because that's the only way to learn and grow.

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! 

Being in your early 20’s can be a whirlwind of uncertainty. What do I want to do with my life? Where do I want to live? Who am I? What do I like, what don’t I like? These questions seem endless. Your 20’s is a crucial time to figure out who you are independently and your experiences and values ultimately shape who you become. The truth is I feel like everyone feels like this and taking the time to ask these questions is already a step in the right direction.

Discovering Yourself through Hobbies

Finding hobbies that are tailored to you is the best way to get to know your interests and values. The key is finding hobbies you genuinely enjoy doing in your free time without feeling like a chore. By incorporating hobbies that fill aspects of your life —social needs, professional needs, creative needs, physical needs and self-care needs— you’ll create a well-rounded foundation for personal growth. Ultimately finding a few hobbies in each of these categories will set you up for success with truly knowing yourself.

Social Hobbies: Building Connections

Fulfilling your social needs is essential for personal well-being. Surrounding yourself with the right people and meaningful activities can enrich your life. Your social needs can be met in a few different ways like hosting dinner parties, joining a book club, going out with friends, going to brunch or visiting some of your favorite places with your friends. When it comes to socializing and friendships, quality often outweighs quantity. Finding like-minded friends and a support system will help you grow in ways you’ve never expected.

Intellectual Hobbies: Expanding Your Mind

Keeping your brain engaged is just as important as staying physically active. Intellectual hobbies challenge you, enhance your skills and help you become a more well-rounded person. Consider exploring activities like reading books, watching documentaries, learning a new language, taking online courses to grow your skills and writing. Engaging in these types of activities will not only sharpen your mind but also enhance your ability to communicate and connect with others.

Physical Hobbies: Keeping Your Body Active

Physical hobbies are so important for keeping both your mind and body sharp. The beauty of movement is there is something for everyone! There are so many different sports and activities you can do like swimming, tennis, volleyball, golf, Pilates, running, dancing and so much more! Finding a physical activity that you enjoy will make it easier to stay consistent and improve your well-being.

Self-Care and Wellness: Recharging your Energy

Taking care of yourself is just as important as any other aspect in life. Prioritizing self-care ensures that you have the energy and mental clarity to pursue your passions. Self-care can be different from person to person, but some great ones are spa days, meditation, journaling, practicing your religion, nature walks, massages and therapy and counseling. These activities should help you feel recharged and ready to take on the world!

Embracing Your Journey

Becoming your best self is not about having all the answers. It’s about being open to exploration, growth and creating your own happiness. Your 20’s are the perfect time to experiment and figure out what truly fulfills you. The key is to embrace the journey, stay focused and build a life that aligns with your values.

So, what’s one new hobby you want to try?

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! 

Choosing the right thing to do between college semesters can be difficult. There are mixed emotions about wanting to stay a kid and do fun stuff and feeling obligated to get a job or an internship that can help your career. You have many options, and everyone’s path is different, but many students struggle to see how they can have fun and be productive in one summer while also taking a break to combat burnout. As a senior getting ready to graduate and move on to my next phase of life, here is my advice on how to organize your summers to maximize fun and professional growth.

The Summer After Freshman Year

It’s tempting to jump right into being an adult as soon as you finish your first year of college, but don’t forget that this is also your first time back at home after being away for a whole year. It also might be your last chance to have a “kid summer” before having to focus on getting an internship. The summer after my freshman year, I lived out my childhood dream of being a camp counselor at the summer camp I grew up going to. I cannot recommend this enough. The words “camp counselor” look great on a resume, and it’s a fun job! You truly get the best of both worlds with this job.

The Summer After Sophomore Year

The best choice I ever made was studying abroad for the summer. I had a fantastic time and learned so much about myself, the world, and traveling. It was also great because I was taking classes that I needed to graduate, but I wasn’t doing it in a way that fed into my burnout; rather, I was doing it while exploring Europe. This was the perfect balance as I bridged the gap to the second half of college and needed to focus on my future career. My biggest advice for every college student is to study abroad at some point in their college career. I promise you won’t regret it.

The Summer After Junior Year

Finally, it was time to look for an internship. As a design major, most major companies don’t accept interns younger than junior year, so I had my timeline somewhat laid out for me because of that. I spent the Spring semester of junior year searching for an internship and applying to many, many positions, then getting rejected from many, many positions. This grueling process can be disheartening, but I was lucky enough to be offered an internship at Georgia Aquarium for the summer. I loved my time there, and I learned so much about design and about working. I also had a super fun summer! I was able to hang out with friends after work and on the weekends and explore the city. Going into your senior year can be daunting, but having a little bit of work experience under my belt made the process feel more exciting than scary.

The Summer After Senior Year

I’m about to graduate so I’ll impart some wisdom that has been given to me. Most of the job application process is out of your hands, so you have to go with the flow. Your first job will likely not be your dream job, but rather a steppingstone towards the career you want. Keep an open mind and know that what’s meant to be, will be. Everybody’s path looks different, but it will all work out in the end.

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!