8 Ways to Slay Your Summer Classes

July 6, 2022

Summer school has a different rhythm than the rest of the school year. As you dive into your new summer routine, it’s just as important as ever that you strategize how and when you’ll study.

A May 2017 research study out of Stanford University found that a strategic approach to studying can even boost your test grades—by one third of a letter grade on average! Here are eight ways you can study smarter this summer during summer school.

1. Set some summer goals.

In the Stanford experiment, students first reflected on their goals for an upcoming exam. Try doing the same for your summer class. Why are you taking this course, and what do you want to get out of it?

2. Prepare to take great notes.

Summer classes operate on a compressed schedule, which means you’ll cover a lot more material per class session. Good note-taking skills are key for keeping track of all the information you’re covering each day.

3. Retaking a class? Don’t start from square one.

This is a terrific opportunity to reflect on the areas or topics you previously had trouble with. Do you freeze during in-class essays? Was cell biology a blur? Take steps to work with a summer tutor or your teacher on skills and topics you need to master. Revisiting the course material will also show you how much you already know!

4. Sync your school calendar with your social calendar.

Summer classes have an accelerated pace, so read your syllabus carefully. Mark test dates and deadlines for major assignments on a calendar and work backwards. Don’t forget to include work shifts, concerts, and other fun stuff, so you have a clear picture of what you truly have going on. Devote a chunk of time each night to preparing for what’s coming up next.

5. Form a new study crew.

Summer school is great way to meet people you wouldn’t normally run into. And since summer classes usually have fewer students in them, you might feel more comfortable asking to borrow notes from a classmate or forming an impromptu study group. Of course, our tutors are also on standby to help you all summer long.

6. Visualize your upcoming test.

Before a big test, think about what you can expect. What topics and chapters will the test cover? Can you guess any of the questions based on your homework assignments and classwork?

7. Take advantage of all your resources.

A big component of the Stanford studywas asking students to identify all the available class resources they would use to study effectively. Consider everything that’s available to you, like:

Class notes
Textbook readings
Handouts
Practice questions
Outside review with your teacher
Summer tutoring

Once you have a personal list, write down why each resource will be useful and how you will use it. Bingo! You’ve got a study plan.

8. Take plenty of brain breaks.

FOMO can be intense during the summer, especially if your friends have different plans than you. You’ll be more productive and motivated if give yourself a break. Go for a run, catch a movie, or even take a power nap to recharge.

Source: https://www.princetonreview.com/college-advice/summer-school-tips

SUMMER SCHOOL VS SUMMER BREAK: PROS AND CONS OF A SUMMER SCHOOL EDUCATION

June 29, 2022

At the end of a busy semester of study, you may not be thinking ahead to summer school. That’s to be expected. Many students view summer as their chance for a break, not a chance to continue their studies.

Yet summer school can have quite a few benefits that are worth considering. If you are on the path toward completing a degree, don’t discount this option to do so a little faster. By weighing the pros and cons of summer school, you can make the choice that best fits your educational goals.

PRO: LIGHTEN UP YOUR FALL AND SPRING SEMESTER LOAD

If you consider summer school as a third semester, you might be able to take fewer classes during the fall and spring semesters. If you are nearing the end of your degree and find that the coursework is getting harder, pushing some courses to summer school lets you take a more bearable load in the fall and spring semesters. If you find that your semesters are just getting too hard, and don’t want to graduate later, then consider this strategy.

CON: SUMMER SCHOOL COURSES MOVE QUICKLY

When you take a course in summer school, you often have to complete a full semester of study in four to six weeks. This means your professors have to pack more into each day than they would during the spring and fall semesters. Sometimes the classes are longer, and other times the homework is more intense. You will have tests and quizzes with more regularity. Make sure you’re ready for this level of intensity. Make sure you use the right strategies to stay focused on your studies if you take a summer school course.

PRO: YOU CAN GRADUATE EARLY

College is expensive, and the more time you spend in college, the longer it will take to fully launch your career. When you take some classes in summer school, you often will be able to graduate early. Graduating early also means you won’t be competing with all of the classmates in your major. If you are living on campus, early graduation also lets you save some money on room and board.

CON: SUMMER SCHOOL CAN COST MORE

Sometimes summer school costs more than schooling during the regular semester. If you are on a scholarship, check the terms of the scholarship carefully. It may not cover summer courses. Similarly, if you have funds through a work-study program, your work position may not be available during the summer. You’ll may also have to pay for your room and board during the summer if you stay on campus.

One way to get around some of these added costs is to take these courses online from home or at your local community college, then transfer them to your university. If you choose this route, always check first to see if they will transfer.

PRO: ONLINE COURSES GIVE FLEXIBILITY

The rise in online education makes summer college classes more attainable in many programs. Students can study online during the summer term and still go home to work jobs and get paid for their efforts. If you are able to take advantage of online courses, this can make summer school affordable and flexible.

CON: CLASS OPTIONS MAY BE LIMITED

Summer school class options may be limited. First, professors, like students, enjoy summer break, so they may not offer as many courses during this term. Second, summer school is very popular, and so classes that are offered may fill quickly. If you decide that summer school helps you reach your graduation goals, sign up for the classes you need early.

PRO: GET THOSE GENERAL EDUCATION CLASSES OUT OF THE WAY

General education—the English, math, and history classes that everyone takes, regardless of their major—can be a bit of a drag during college, especially when you want to focus on the classes in your major that teach what you’re passionate about. Summer school gives you the ability to get those gen ed classes out of the way in a streamlined manner. By finishing these mandatory classes in summer school, you can spend your semesters focusing on learning the things that drive your passion.

CON: SUMMER SCHOOL CAN CREATE BURNOUT

College life is intense. You spend many hours of the day studying and researching. Sometimes, you just need a break. When you stick with the grind, even in the summer, you may be more prone to burnout.

PRO: SUMMER WORKS WELL FOR INTERNSHIPS

If you find yourself on the verge of burnout, don’t discount the thought of using summer to complete some educational requirement. Instead of coursework, consider the summer term as the chance to complete a required internship. You can gain valuable on-the-job training, without demanding academics, and still check off some requirements for your degree. Scoring a summer internship can be one of the most valuable parts of your education experience.

CON: SUMMER SCHOOL MEANS LESS OPPORTUNITY TO WORK

Many students use the summer months to work and raise money for the coming semester. If you take a full load of classes during the summer, and those classes are more academically intense because of their shortened nature, you may not have as much time as you need to work. If you need the income from a summer job to pay for your tuition in the fall semester, and you have a good job opportunity available, consider carefully if adding the demands of summer school is wise. That said, online courses and programs can give you the flexibility to work a job while attending summer school, so options exist that can help you do both.

PRO: LESS RISK OF “SUMMER SLIDE”

All students, from elementary school through grad school, who take a significant chunk of time off of their studies are at risk for what educators call the “summer slide.” This happens when they lose valuable learning or study skills over the summer break. When you take summer school, your brain stays engaged with your learning and this risk lessens.

CON: YOUR TEACHERS MAY NOT BE THE SAME

During summer school, courses are often taught by adjunct professors, not the full-time faculty you spend time with during the school year. These teachers are usually qualified for their position, but they may not have the teaching experience of full-time instructors. This could impact the quality of your summer education.

So, what’s the bottom line? Summer college classes can be a great way to get some of your courses out of the way, graduate early, and enjoy a less intense fall and spring schedule, but they can get in the way of rest and jobs. In the end, each student will need to weigh these pros and cons and consider their overall goals for education before deciding to take summer classes.

Source: https://www.ucumberlands.edu/blog/summer-school

Summer Planning Strategies

June 22, 2022

For so many graduate students, this summer has already proven itself to be unlike any other they’ve encountered so far; and with ongoing global crisis, graduate students should feel no guilt for prioritizing their personal well-being over their productivity. That being said, summer has always been a time of free fall for graduate students — assistantships end, funding becomes unstable, precarity increases and the work structures that we rely on to keep us productive throughout the semester suddenly disappear. All the while we are expected to prepare for fall teaching, continue our own research, catch up on tasks that we shuffled off during the academic year and make real progress on a slew of tasks. Whether this summer has been particularly disruptive for you or whether summer always proves a time of uncertainty, here are some strategies for making progress in your work, however small.

Be Kind to Yourself

While it’s worth practicing self-compassion no matter the circumstances, this tip feels especially necessary now. As graduate students, we keep seemingly endless lists of tasks and goals, aspirations and to-dos. With so much on our plates at all times, it can be easy to slip into feelings of doubt, guilt, despair, stress and anxiety. However, as you may know from experience, such feelings are entirely counterproductive, serving only to paralyze us in the face of even small tasks. As a result, instead of holding yourself to incredibly high standards this summer, be realistic about where you’re at, where you’d like to be and what steps you’ll be able to take in the time that you have.

Setting huge goals for yourself (“I will write every single day!” “I will finish two chapters this summer!”) may feel good in the moment, but it can set you up for a work freeze if you fail to live up to those goals (“I missed writing yesterday. Why am I so terrible at this?” “I’ll never finish this chapter at this rate — why even bother?”). Instead of responding to inevitable setbacks with guilt, shame or frustration, treating yourself with care can make all the difference in your willingness and ability to bounce back.

Instead of judgmental self-talk, try to speak to yourself like you would a close friend, a loved one, one of your students or even a child. Whatever approach you need, responding to yourself with compassion and understanding will make you more willing to try (and potentially fail) later, making it easier to get back to work even after a setback.

Work Backward

Perhaps already a familiar strategy to those who have experience creating lesson plans, working backward from your intended goal to accurately plan the steps that will get you there is a powerful way to build your own structure and deadlines. Think about the goal that you’d like to reach and its ideal deadline.

For instance, if your goal is to take your comp exams by Oct. 1, but you know that your exam materials must be submitted two weeks prior to your exam, then your real deadline becomes Sept. 17. Then, you know that you want a good three weeks to write and revise each of the two essays required, which means that you’ll want to start drafting by July 21. Before that, though, you’ll want some time to finalize your bibliography, read and annotate your sources, and talk to your committee, all of which you can fill in as tentative deadlines on your calendar.

So, now, instead of Take Comp Exams by Oct. 1, you have June 10: Contact Committee, June 15: Compile Possible Sources, June 22-July 17: Read and Annotate, July 20: Finalize Bibliography, July 21: Begin Drafting First Essay, Aug. 11: Begin Drafting Second Essay, Sept. 17: Submit Materials to Committee, Oct. 1: Exam.

Thus, instead of setting large goals into your calendar, build in smaller deadlines by breaking the goal into its components (the topic of the following tip).

Set Actionable Tasks

Admittedly, there exists a page in my own planner that includes the task Write Chapter 3 — a worthwhile goal, perhaps, but not an actionable one. After all, it would be impossible to simply sit down and suddenly produce a complete and usable third chapter. In fact, the only way to eventually reach a finished Chapter 3 will be to first complete the reading, research, brainstorming, planning, drafting, revising and all of the other minute steps that make up the work of chapter writing.

As you think about working backward, and thus consider all of the small steps that make up much larger goals, think about how you can break large goals into even smaller actionable steps that you can realistically complete.

To use the example above, the July 21 goal of Begin Drafting First Essay will give you a clear deadline for your monthly calendar, but it isn’t yet at the more achievable level of daily to-do task. As you get closer to this deadline at the end of July, you’ll want some more clear direction. For instance, your to-do list for July 21 might include items as small as Create New Document for Essay 1, Title, Draft Rough Introductory Paragraph, Import Bibliography Into Document, Draft Bulleted Outline Beneath Introduction, etc.

The idea is that you first set realistic calendar deadlines by breaking a goal into smaller goals, but then you can further break those small goals into daily to-dos that allow you to make real progress each time you sit down to work and cross something off of your task list each day (instead of only getting the satisfaction of feeling “done” once the whole project is completed).

Be Consistent

As scholars like Joan Bolker (Writing Your Dissertation in Fifteen Minutes a Day) and Helen Sword (Air & Light & Time & Space) make clear, the most successful academic writers are those who are the most consistent in doing work. While it can be tempting (or unavoidable, or necessary) to step away from work for extended amounts of time or to work in large, sudden blocks, working regularly, even in small sessions, ultimately produces larger amounts of usable work.

Breaking your goals into small, achievable tasks can help with your consistency. After all, it’s much easier to want to write each day if your goal is something like Write for Five Minutes or Add Transition to Final Paragraph instead of the imposing and seemingly unattainable Write Chapter 3.

Rewarding yourself with small treats or writing trackers (today’s final tip) can also be a great way to motivate yourself to want to work. Regardless of how you do it, however, the fact remains that small and consistent progress adds up much quicker than sporadic bursts of work. Consistency can help you become more compassionate with yourself as well, since you no longer have such large expectations for your working time. Instead, remember that any work done (no matter how seemingly insignificant) is still work done.

Reward Yourself

While other articles exist with ideas for how to reward yourself for your work, it’s simply important that you are getting some kind of regular payoff for your work to keep you moving forward. These should be (like your work itself) small and consistent rewards. That is, while you might be planning some way of celebrating completing your comp exams in October, you should also be including smaller-tier treats for finishing each step of the process that will get you there. You might even want a weekly or even daily reward for completing work — you know your needs best.

Even if they are small rewards like a new sticker for each day of work, a morning pastry with your coffee after every three consecutive workdays or an at-home spa day at the end of a full week, keeping yourself motivated with self-generated rewards is necessary to becoming more productive. Rewards keep you motivated and make you more likely to want to keep going. After all, the promise of a sticker might be the difference between sleeping in on Friday or shuffling out of bed to add a few sentences to a draft.

Even without external structures of work, colleagues, etc., you can still be self-starting — capable of caring for your needs and the reality of your situation, building your own deadlines, breaking your goals into achievable tasks, working consistently, and providing yourself with rewards and motivation for your hard work.

Source: https://www.insidehighered.com/blogs/gradhacker/summer-planning-strategies

Strategies to Increase Your Online Learning Efficiency

June 15, 2022

We all never had any idea how much learning through online platforms can turn out to be pretty tricky for us to keep our focus straight. However, no matter how much this pandemic has ruined our entire life routine, it certainly taught us all how to cash the best out of a situation.

So, whether you are one of those students who have been thinking of choosing to earn your degree online even after the pandemic is over or you are just stuck with online classes and no other option left, there are many ways through which you can increase your study productivity.

So, here are some of the most successful tried and tested tips as well as strategies that can certainly help you to increase your online efficiency as a whole.

Try Group Study

One of the most convenient and best ways to put yourself on track and study properly is to get a friend on board. As you know, a friend in need is a friend indeed, and we mostly include friends in our fun or playful activities

But you might not know that apart from playing, friends can also be a great support for you to study online. All you need to do is to find a friend or a group of friends to learn together. This will certainly help you to clear out your confusion in a better manner.

In addition to that, you can also set small goals for the goals to motivate each other through awakening a sense of healthy competition among each other.

Schedule Your Activities

Another one of the many techniques that you can try to enhance your online learning capabilities is by scheduling all your activities. This is important as when we are learning from our own place; we are already comfortable enough to get in the feel.

Maintaining a proper check list or scheduling your study and other activities will help you to complete your work on time and keep deadlines in mind. This will also help you to be more punctual and divide your productive and unproductive time effectively.

To do this, you can also set timeline goals for yourself and set reminders that will help you to ace your grades like a pro.

Take Notes of Classes

One of the most common mistakes that most students make while studying online is not taking proper notes of their classes. This becomes one of the top reasons why they forget what was actually taught in class and then later have difficulty understanding the subject.

However, when you take notes of your online lesson, you will be able to understand and learn the topic better later for when you are preparing for exams or any viva test. This can help you keep a proper tab of how much you have covered and how much syllabus needs to be explained so far.

In addition to that, taking notes of your studies regularly will help you enhance your online learning like never before

Source: https://collegecures.com/2021/strategies-to-increase-your-online-learning-efficiency/

6 Tips to Explore Your College Town

June 8, 2022

Whether you choose to attend an urban university, such as NYU or UCLA, or wish to escape to the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, where you live will have a huge impact on your college experience. All college life can feel repetitive, so students can easily fall into a routine. But, you must take full advantage of your college experience. Break out of your comfort zone and immerse yourself in the culture of your university’s town. Go out and explore! You will find something new and exciting about your surroundings and yourself.

Here are 6 tips to get you up and moving.

1. Go to Local Restaurants

Most of the time, the first step into a city’s culture is through its cuisine. Restaurants are informative cultural hubs, and a much-needed escape from the dining halls. Try not to attend the chains. A late-night McDonalds run is okay, but you could do that anywhere! It’s best to take time to enjoy local food and drink. It helps your college town’s economy, and local food is almost always fresher and healthier.

2. Look at Campus Bulletin Boards

Almost every campus building has them. Most of the the time, bulletin boards will only consist of political notes, or the occasional quidditch club flyer. However, local businesses will occasionally use them to advertise, as well.

Check out local band listings and open mic nights. Most music venues that advertise on campus bulletins aren’t large enough to require a ticket. The most you would have to pay is a five-dollar cover at the door. Bars and restaurant music venues are places where students and locals can converse and mingle Get to know some of the locals. They will be able to show you around town better than any of the student guides.

3. Explore Nature

A fantastic getaway from your daily routine is a hike with your friends. This is a healthy alternative to an afternoon on the couch, or an innovative way to exercise if you have exhausted the gym. Every area of the country has a unique and beautiful landscape. If you are attending school somewhere far from home, make sure to explore the outdoor areas around you. Chances are, they are vastly different than what you’re used to.

Owning, or borrowing, a bike is a great way to explore beyond campus. Many areas have bike paths that many locals know about, but are often foreign to students. Walking only allows you to cover so much ground while a car limits you to paved roads. A bike, however, gives you an efficient way to travel far beyond university buildings, in a timely manner.

4. Meet/Befriend Locals

One of the best parts about college is the friends you meet. You get to spend time and converse with people from completely different geographical areas and cultural backgrounds. It only seems natural that you should get to know the locals, as well. They will know the hidden gems of the town, where you can eat, drink, and relax. But, it is important to tread lightly. Especially in small college towns, the locals feel as if everything they do is infiltrated by students. So, if you are lucky enough to be let in on a secret, be respectful. Don’t tell all of your friends, and don’t litter, or host parties there.

College tours only give you so much information, and the majority of your friends will probably fall victim to the daily routine. Befriending the locals allows you to feel as if you don’t just attend a school, but are a member of the community, as well.

5. Be Lost

This piece of advice should be taken with a grain of salt. Obviously, it isn’t good to be lost anywhere where you are susceptible to danger, but I’m speaking more to the metaphorical “lost.” This means keeping an open mind to fun and rewarding opportunities. It means taking a local’s advice and traveling with friends to the farmers market on Saturday morning. Turn off your GPS and put your planner down. You can only fully explore a new area, or become accustomed to a different culture, if you take time to fully submerge yourself in it.

6. Get Out

College fosters independence. One of the best things about being independent and free is the ability to travel when you please. While it is beneficial and easy to fall in love with your new school or town, there is always a need for travel, even if it is just the next town over. College students often fall into a routine and feel obligated to stay in one place. It is imperative though for college students to explore and experience new places, people and ideas, all the time.

Before you know it, your time at college will be up. Don’t limit your explorations to campus and waste an opportunity to live in your city or town. College has so much more to offer than classes and a university center. Ask questions, be unpredictable, and keep your life exciting and new.

Source: https://www.tun.com/blog/explore-college-town/

5 Ways to Stay Motivated During a College Summer Class

June 1, 2022

Close-up of a Beautiful Black Female Student Sitting Among Her Fellow Students in the Classroom, She's Writing in the Notebook and Listens to a Lecture.

For most college students, summer is a welcome break from attending classes, studying for exams, and finishing homework assignments. With often beautiful weather and a plethora of available activities, sitting in a classroom during the summer months is likely unappealing. Yet some college students are choosing to sign up for summer classes. Summer classes allow you to get ahead on your required classes or simply to learn more about a subject of interest. Ways to stay motivated during a college summer class include keeping a schedule, settling into a routine, and finding a reliable study space.

If you’ve signed up for a summer class and are looking to stay engaged, keep reading to learn five ways to stay motivated during a college summer class.

1. Stay motivated during a college summer class by creating a calendar

You may be used to keeping your school schedule in a planner or on a digital calendar during a regular semester course. Doing so is a great way to keep track of all your assignments, exams, and other important information about your classes.

Make it a point to keep up this good habit during the summer semester. It can be especially helpful to do so this time of year because class meetings, assignments, and exams tend to be spaced more closely together during summer classes compared to the rest of the school year. You might want to sit down every Sunday evening, for example, to review your week’s plan and make sure you’re on top of all requirements.

2. Stay motivated during a college summer class by scheduling homework time

Just as it can help to schedule your class assignments, tests, and meetings, it can also be beneficial to use your planner or calendar to schedule time to do your homework. When it comes to getting homework done, it’s usually best to space it out over a few days. Doing so will help you avoid a homework rush before your next class. It can also help you to more easily divide your time between summertime learning and fun. Getting into a good homework routine can benefit your summer school routine overall, helping you better absorb what you’re learning in class.

3. Stay motivated during a college summer class by settling into a routine

While it’s tempting to skip your classes and spend time outside, it’s important to treat your summer class just as you would a class during a regular college semester. To motivate yourself to go to class, make sure you’re feeling your best. You can ensure this by doing the following:

Go to bed at a reasonable hour, and wake up around the same time each weekday morning
Eat healthily, drink lots of water, and exercise each day

Make it a priority to balance time spent in class and studying with time having fun, relaxing, and enjoying the summer.

4. Stay motivated during a college summer class by finding a reliable study spot

During the summer, campus might feel like a bit of a ghost town. It’s important to find a study space that’s exciting enough that it motivates you to study during the summer, but not so exciting that it distracts you from the task at hand. Create your perfect spot at home by setting up a desk at a quiet place by a window. On campus, seek indoor working spaces that have outdoor access, or at the very least, an outdoor view. Find a friend who might join you in a study session at the library or a coffee shop, where you can both do schoolwork.

5. Stay motivated during a college summer class by taking time to recharge

Spending some time enjoying your summer is a great reward for staying focused on your summer classes. Doing so can rest and recharge your body so you’re motivated to study hard and succeed in your classes. As mentioned previously, scheduling time for studying and time for fun summer activities can help you stay on top of your classes while also giving you time to enjoy your summer.

Source: https://www.varsitytutors.com/blog/5+ways+to+stay+motivated+during+a+college+summer+class

8 Ways to Slay Your Summer Classes

May 25, 2022

Summer school has a different rhythm than the rest of the school year. As you dive into your new summer routine, it’s just as important as ever that you strategize how and when you’ll study.

A May 2017 research study out of Stanford University found that a strategic approach to studying can even boost your test grades—by one third of a letter grade on average! Here are eight ways you can study smarter this summer during summer school.

1. Set some summer goals.

In the Stanford experiment, students first reflected on their goals for an upcoming exam. Try doing the same for your summer class. Why are you taking this course, and what do you want to get out of it?

2. Prepare to take great notes.

Summer classes operate on a compressed schedule, which means you’ll cover a lot more material per class session. Good note-taking skills are key for keeping track of all the information you’re covering each day.

3. Retaking a class? Don’t start from square one.

This is a terrific opportunity to reflect on the areas or topics you previously had trouble with. Do you freeze during in-class essays? Was cell biology a blur? Take steps to work with a summer tutor or your teacher on skills and topics you need to master. Revisiting the course material will also show you how much you already know!

4. Sync your school calendar with your social calendar.

Summer classes have an accelerated pace, so read your syllabus carefully. Mark test dates and deadlines for major assignments on a calendar and work backwards. Don’t forget to include work shifts, concerts, and other fun stuff, so you have a clear picture of what you truly have going on. Devote a chunk of time each night to preparing for what’s coming up next.

5. Form a new study crew.

Summer school is great way to meet people you wouldn’t normally run into. And since summer classes usually have fewer students in them, you might feel more comfortable asking to borrow notes from a classmate or forming an impromptu study group. Of course, our tutors are also on standby to help you all summer long.

6. Visualize your upcoming test.

Before a big test, think about what you can expect. What topics and chapters will the test cover? Can you guess any of the questions based on your homework assignments and classwork?

7. Take advantage of all your resources.

A big component of the Stanford study was asking students to identify all the available class resources they would use to study effectively. Consider everything that’s available to you, like:

Class notes
Textbook readings
Handouts
Practice questions
Outside review with your teacher
Summer tutoring

Once you have a personal list, write down why each resource will be useful and how you will use it. Bingo! You’ve got a study plan.

8. Take plenty of brain breaks.

FOMO can be intense during the summer, especially if your friends have different plans than you. You’ll be more productive and motivated if give yourself a break. Go for a run, catch a movie, or even take a power nap to recharge.

Source: https://www.princetonreview.com/college-advice/summer-school-tips

10 Positive Ways to Deal With Post-Grad Anxiety

May 18, 2022

Graduating from college is a bittersweet experience. Follow these tips to ease your anxiety about the next phase (hint: it’s all gonna be alright).

Everyone knows graduating from college is bittersweet. Although it’s a special time to celebrate your accomplishments and look ahead to your future, it’s also a time where you have to say goodbye to friendships, a consistent routine, and (often grueling) term papers.

What no tells you about life after college is the rollercoaster of emotions you experience after graduation. Even if you’ve landed a great job, found an apartment, and can even afford to start paying back your student loans without giving up your coffee addiction, it’s not unusual to still feel lost in your career or who you are as a young adult.

What no tells you about life after college is the rollercoaster of emotions you experience after graduation.

Post-grad anxiety often impacts those of us who are having a difficult time transitioning into adulthood. Whether it’s stressing about finding a job or feeling unsure about your chosen career path, it’s really easy to fall into a funk after graduation. And believe it or not, even those of us who seem to have it all together can experience this type of post-grad stress.

What’s important to remember, however, is that you’re not alone in this journey. Post-grad anxiety happens to many young adults. If you’ve been feeling a little stressed or having some doubts about your goals, here are some positive ways to deal with the anxiety you may experience upon graduating from college:

1. Take a Deep Breath and Think About Everything You’ve Just Accomplished

As soon as you graduate from college, it’s super easy to obsess over your “five-year plan”, or perhaps the fact that you don’t have a plan in place at all. Before you start worrying about where you want to be in the next five years, focus on the fact that you’ve just graduated from college—an accomplishment, in and of itself!

2. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

One of the biggest lessons you’ll learn after college is that every person will reach success at his or her own rate. Although you’ll have friends who excel in their careers faster than you, it’s important that you don’t compare yourself to others and their successes. Everyone (even and especially you) will have a moment to shine. Just be patient and the right opportunity will come your way.

Everyone (even and especially you) will have a moment to shine. Just be patient and the right opportunity will come your way.

3. Invest in Something You’re Passionate About

As a college student, you probably didn’t have much time to do the things you truly love. If you’re passionate about cooking, painting, or even playing a sport, find a way to bring those hobbies back into your life. Investing yourself in your passions is a great way to re-energize and regain focus.

4. Start a New Hobby Outside of Your Comfort Zone

On the other hand, if you’re struggling to find something you’re passionate about, explore a new interest. Whether it’s signing up for a hot yoga class or learning how to grow an herb garden, experiment with new hobbies. Who knows, you might discover a new passion and make some new friends along the way!

5. Surround Yourself With Friends

Don’t lose touch with the valuable relationships you made in college. Even if you’re hundreds of miles away from everyone, don’t let your closest relationships disappear. These people will always be here for you, especially when you need them most.

6. Focus on the Present

Remember that five-year plan mentioned earlier? Well, it might be a good idea to put it on hold for now. Instead of getting caught up in your future self, start creating the person you dream of being today. Live in the moment and appreciate the simple things in your life, and most importantly, think about everything you can be grateful for right now.

7. Don’t Sweat the Big Stuff

One of the biggest stressors of being an adult is coping with student loan debt. Although this seems like a huge weight on your shoulders, don’t allow it to consume your life. Remember, there will always be a way to make your payments, even if it means picking up a second part-time job.

8. Don’t Neglect Your Body and Mind

A positive attitude begins with a healthy body and mind. While it might seem like common sense, make sure you’re eating healthy, getting enough exercise, and giving yourself adequate sleep. After college, your body will start telling you that it can’t do all-nighters or thrive off of junk food anymore. When you focus on creating the best version of yourself—inside and out—you’ll feel more positive about your goals.

9. Cross Something Off Your Bucket List

Have you ever wanted to run a half marathon? Is it one of your dreams to write a book? Whatever has been on your bucket list, now is the perfect time to cross it off. By investing your energy in goals outside of your career, you’ll discover a whole new meaning to personal accomplishments.

10. Trust the Journey

There will be many highs and lows during your first year in the post-grad world. Whether it’s landing a dream job or dealing with your car breaking down, have trust that everything will be OK in the end.

Transitioning into the post-grad world doesn’t have to be overwhelming. As long as you believe in yourself and trust what the future holds, everything will work out just fine.

You’ll also discover that the moment you stop worrying about how everything “should” be, you’ll see more opportunities to create the life you’ve always dreamed of living.

Source: https://www.careercontessa.com/advice/how-to-deal-post-grad-anxiety/

Summer Vacation: 30 Ways Students Can Make the Most of Free Time

May 11, 2022

This was a stressful year for families and students need the summer to rest and relax.

But THEIR down time during the summer months can sometimes collide with the real responsibilities we have as parents. Plus, there is only so much Netflix teens can watch until boredom takes over. Your teen may actually welcome ideas of productive things to do.

Here are 30 ways that students can make the most of summer vacation. While some projects and activities pertain to college students, many are things that middle school and high school students can do.

(Hint: Print it out and leave it near the remote control where they are sure to find it.)

How students can use free time this summer

Some students may have found work this summer, but, if they still have time on their hands, here are ideas for how to use their free time.

1. Look for a internship or job for the fall or for after graduation

If you are currently a college student or will be attending this fall, visit the career counseling website. Career services is an underutilized area on campus that undergraduates should begin using from freshman year on. You cannot start the process too soon.

2. Create a LinkedIn profile

LinkedIn is ground zero for many employers who scan the database for students with qualifications that match their needs. Some jobs require LinkedIn just to apply. Find a suitable (not holding a solo cup) profile picture and create an account. If you have an account already, is it up to date? And yes, high school students can create a profile.

3. Update your resume

If you’ve not needed a resume to get a summer job you will need one in college. Check your college’s career counseling website for resources or if you need more help, Handshake is a good place to start.

4. Donate or resell old books and textbooks

Barnes & Noble Textbooks has a buy-back program that is easy and includes free shipping. Locate the ISBN number on each book and type it into a link on the site to discover if there is any resell value. You will get a quote on the spot and a shipping label. All you need is a shipping box and a little time to gather all the books you no longer need or want. Cash4Books is another site to look at to see if you can get more money for books.

5. Increase your computer skills

For students who want to make the most of their screen time, we highly recommend ID Tech Virtual Tech Camps. It’s our go-to place for learning about different STEM disciplines and enhancing computer skills.

6. Spend time with younger siblings

If you’ve been away at college, you may not realize how much you’ve been missed by your younger siblings. You will always be their much-admired big brother or sister so set up board games, plan movie nights, or surprise your parents with cooking dinner together with them. Make memories this summer for all of you.

7. Visit grandparents

Other than your parents, these adults have loved you with all their hearts since your very first breath. Now is the time to visit them in person and give them that bear hug and the companionship they have missed for the last 18 months.

8. Take the car in for servicing

Is there a family car that you are allowed to use? When does the inspection sticker expire? Does the oil need changing? How about getting it washed? Take part in the maintenance of the car and, if your parents are letting you drive it to college in the fall, look at this checklist to make sure you are ready for the road trip.

9. Gather and sell old electronics

Chargers, old iPods, phones, cases, games and game systems, CD’s can all bring money if you spend a little time and research who buys what. Learn how to gather and recycle old electronics and read what Best Buy can take. The Amazon Trade In Program is a one stop shop for trade-ins.

10. Get a jump on reading for the fall semester

Do you have fall courses that are reading-intensive? Why not get a jump on academics by picking one of the books off the reading list and finishing it before class begins. Besides, you can never waste time reading a quality book.

11. Go through school mementos and cull them

Clutter is the enemy and you are the only one who can fight the battle between what stays and what goes in your old room. Perhaps some of those programs, pictures, knickknacks that once seemed so precious to you have lost a little luster. Time to trash things now.

12. Make a digital book or 2022 calendar

When was the last family vacation that you took with your parents and siblings? With the pandemic curtailing travel, that trip might be even more meaningful than you realized at the time! Why not create a photo book or calendar for 2023 with pics that are living on your phone? If you want to save the project for the holidays or an upcoming birthday, you will be way ahead with this project in the bank. Shutterfly has easy templates.

13. Research study abroad options

if you’re planning on studying abroad, this is the ideal time to research programs, both ones that your college offers and others that are available elsewhere. Ask around for recommendations from other students and see what advice they have for you.

14. Get safety training

Look at the Red Cross website or visit your local YMCA’s website and see if there are any programs offered that can lead to certification in CPR, first aid, or lifeguarding. Many options have both online and unperson options.

15. Research graduate programs and requirements

You may find it hard to see beyond life as a college student, but if you think that graduate school is in your future somewhere down the road, take the time to look at a few university websites. Find out about required entrance exams, average GPAs, undergraduate course work required, firms that recruit at the school…. understanding more about grad programs might give you more focus as a college student.

16. Consign or donate clothes

Are any of your clothes or accessories consignment-worthy? Alternatively, if they are still wearable but you no longer have any need for them, look for a Goodwill, or local charity that can use what you no longer need.

17. Learn to cook

Time in the kitchen is never wasted and the best way to learn to cook is to, simply, cook. Your parents have been the ones planning, shopping for and preparing meals for decades. Why not take over the responsibilities for a few evenings and master some new recipes at the same time? Maybe your parents would be willing to sign up for a meal subscription service like Blue Apron IF you do the cooking.

18. Help your neighbors

There’s never been a better time to reach out to your neighbors to see if they could use your help this summer. Elderly neighbors, in particular, might need someone to run errands, grocery shop, or take care of walking their dog.

19. Create an exercise routine

If you’ve never gotten in the habit, this could be a perfect time to begin to exercise so that when school begins again, you have a healthy new habit for the fall. There are infinite online options that offer guided instruction with varying length of class times and types – strength, core, yoga, aerobic, and more. Plus, with gyms opening up again, the options are endless.

20. Set goals

It’s the perfect time to think about what you hope to accomplish during the school year 2021-22. Think about goals that are short-term academic ones but also think about longer-term goals, too. Start by reading this newly-released bestseller, The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter and How to Make the Most of Them, by Dr. Meg Jay.

21. Make a budget

Create a spreadsheet and sit with your parents to review your financial needs for the summer and the fall. This is a very good exercise to do, especially if you’re going to college this fall and will need to manage more of your own finances.

22. Plan a family excursion

Although summer feels like it will go on forever, there are only so many weekends when your entire family might be free to gather for an outing. These are memories your family will cherish.

23. Assemble two interview-worthy outfits

When it’s time to meet with for a job interview, you’ll need to project a professional appearance. For virtual interviews, make sure you’re ready with Zoom tops or jackets. Go through your closet and see what fits, what needs to be tailored and cleaned. If you need to shop, look for stores that offer student discounts.

24. Get the old gang together

Take the initiative, send out a few texts and plan a get together this summer. The time for face-to-face gatherings is now!

25. Doctors appointments

Have you outgrown the pediatrician’s office with the toys scattered around the waiting room floor? Talk to your parents about switching to an internist for your next appointment. While you’re at it, do you need to see a dentist, dermatologist, the eye doctor, a gynecologist? Stop asking your mom to make these appointments for you and get them on your calendar.

26. Internships

Are you looking for an internship this summer? Many firms have shorter internships that start mid-summer.

27. Check in with your high school guidance counselor

As a college student, you can be a helpful resource for current high school students, especially since so many student have NOT been able to visit campuses in person. Let your counselor know you’re willing to offer advice and counsel.

28. A dose of culture

Are there museums in your hometown (or nearby) which you haven’t visited since you were in 3rd grade? Maybe it’s time to give culture another shot especially since you can visit in person.

29. Give your dog a bath

Take on the messy responsibility of bath time and enjoy the one-on-one with your best buddy. While you’re at it, take a close look at what it costs to own and take care of a dog. Many students love the IDEA of a dog but are shocked at how expensive it is to buy food and pay for wellness care.

30. Volunteer your time

If you can volunteer in your community this might be THE very best way to spend summer vacation. There are also virtual volunteer opportunities to explore.

Source: https://grownandflown.com/winter-break-31-ways-students-make-most-of-january/

Adjusting To Life After Grad School

May 4, 2022

The five tips listed below offer links to helpful resources and methods of preparing for the stresses of the job search, life after school, and how to cope with inevitable emotional and professional challenges.

1. Make time for yourself: According to a Harvard study, by the time students enter their final years of graduate school, up to 25 percent experience moderate or severe symptoms of depression. Upon graduation, these symptoms don’t necessarily disappear. In her article “The Grief of Graduation,” Anne Guarnera discusses graduate students’ feelings of loss upon finishing their programs. For the most part, she considers these feelings to be a loss of student identity and all the social and spatial connections that one develops while spending three to six years in a town, city or campus environment. When we graduate, many of us move elsewhere. We leave the area in search of a new job, to find a fresh landscape to begin the next chapter or even move in with family or friends to save money. Whatever the scenario, Guarnera suggests that we all need to practice emotional self-care as a means of dealing with these transitions. To do so, she urges us to schedule time to organize our thoughts and process the changes in our lives.
2. Prepare early: While you’re still in school, take advantage of career-focused resources available through your program. These resources include career planning and coaching, interview workshops, job fairs and networking opportunities. If your department or school doesn’t have free services readily available, you can reach out to professors for help in this area. Many of them will be glad to offer advice on how to prepare for the job market and help you avoid any mistakes they may have made.
3. Change your perspective on graduate school: Many students, especially first-generation graduate degree seekers, approach graduate school as an extension of their undergraduate program. Nathaniel Lambert argues that students should treat their post-baccalaureate training as more of an apprenticeship instead of “school” as they’ve traditionally conceptualized it. This concept comes from the middle ages when craftspeople would study with masters of a trade and learn by imitating their techniques and processes. Lambert suggests that graduate learning should be no different and, whenever possible, we should learn by doing, “not simply by reading about it and talking about it in classes.” As a result, we may be better prepared for the transition into our careers upon graduation.
4. Remember: Your thesis or dissertation doesn’t guarantee you a job: While creating a well-formulated, written document based on original research that contributes in some way to your field is important, it’s best to keep that work in perspective. Whether you pursue a career in academia, at a Fortune 500 company or in a research laboratory, there’s little chance that anyone wants to hear about your thesis or dissertation in detail. That said, it’s still essential that you create a thorough and meaningful project. Bear in mind, however, most employers want to know how your knowledge and expertise makes you a good fit for a position. At this point in your career, they want to know what makes you a good problem-solver, teacher, researcher, etc. You need to tell them how you can meet and exceed these expectations and not simply show them what you’ve written in the past.
5. Cultivate a support system and friendship: Our expert, Rebecca Newman, urges professionals after graduate school to find trusted individuals outside of work with whom they can share their personal, academic or professional frustrations. “Have a strong support network when entering a new field after graduate school. This can take the form of family, friends, a partner or a mentor. They can offer you support that will keep your ’dirty laundry’ out of your workplace,” Newman says. “You might think you’re venting to a friend in the form of a colleague, but it can be more professionally advantageous to look at work as being ’on stage.’ If you have a valid concern, you should absolutely bring it up at work in a thoughtful, constructive manner.”