Students blog

In our fast-paced world, where time is a precious commodity, simplifying your daily routine can make a significant difference in your overall well-being. By incorporating practical and efficient life hacks into your day, you can save time, reduce stress, and create more room for the things that truly matter. Here are 10 life hacks to help you streamline your daily routine:

1. Morning Ritual

Establish a morning routine that sets a positive tone for the day. Start with a few minutes of mindfulness, a healthy breakfast, and prioritize your most important tasks. This simple habit can enhance your focus and productivity throughout the day.

2. Time Blocking

Group similar tasks together and allocate specific time blocks for each category. This technique, known as batch processing and time blocking, helps you minimize distractions and work more efficiently by focusing on one type of activity at a time.

3. Digital Detox Before Bed

Create a technology-free zone at least 30 minutes before bedtime. The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with your sleep patterns. Instead, use this time to unwind with a book, practice meditation, or engage in a calming activity that promotes restful sleep.

4. Meal Prep for Healthier Eating

Save time and make healthier food choices by dedicating a day to meal prep. Prepare portions of your favorite meals in advance, making it easier to maintain a balanced diet throughout the week. This also reduces the temptation of opting for fast food on busy days.

5. Declutter Your Living Spaces

A cluttered environment can lead to a cluttered mind. Take some time each week to declutter your living and working spaces. This not only makes your surroundings more pleasant but also helps you find things quickly, eliminating unnecessary stress.

6. Digital Organization with Apps

Leverage technology to keep your life organized. Use productivity apps for tasks, calendars, and notes. Apps like Trello, Todoist, or Evernote can help you stay on top of your commitments and reduce mental clutter.

7. Two-Minute Rule

If a task takes less than two minutes to complete, do it immediately. This simple rule prevents small tasks from piling up and becoming overwhelming. Tackling them right away maintains a sense of accomplishment and keeps your to-do list manageable.

8. Delegate and Outsource

Recognize that you don't have to do everything yourself. Delegate tasks at home or work and consider outsourcing activities that are time-consuming but not necessarily your forte. This allows you to focus on your strengths and priorities.

9. Mindful Breathing Breaks

Incorporate short mindful breathing breaks into your day. Whether you're at work or at home, taking a few moments to focus on your breath can reduce stress and increase mental clarity. It's a simple yet effective way to stay centered and calm.

10. Weekly Reflection and Planning

Dedicate time each week to reflect on the past week's accomplishments and challenges. Use this insight to plan the upcoming week and set realistic goals and priorities. Regular reflection helps you adjust your routine for continuous improvement.

Simplifying your daily routine is not about cutting corners; it's about optimizing your time and energy to live a more fulfilling life. By incorporating these 10 life hacks, you can create a smoother, more streamlined routine that allows you to focus on what truly matters, leading to a happier and more balanced life.

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Martin Luther King, Jr. has long been included within many schools’ curriculum for his perseverance against racism and standing up for civil rights. We are taught at an early age of the significance of peaceful protests and how effective it was during the civil rights movement. King’s impact is still felt within our schools. Students throughout the nation protest for different reasons and do so in a manner that reflects the methods used in the 1960s. They protest by peacefully marching through campuses or living spaces, harming nobody to make their voices heard.

King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech, delivered on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington in 1963, paved the way for an integrated and inclusive future. He made it possible for us to have a space where people of all different colors, cultures, and backgrounds can work and learn together while admiring one another’s differences. If it were not for pioneers such as King, our modern-day campuses would not be what they are today. Students throughout campuses are familiar with his speeches and letters such as the “Letter from Birmingham Jail” which showcases his fearless and resistant soul.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a U.S. federal holiday that occurs each year on the third Monday of January, usually falling on or near King’s actual birthday of January 15th. Also referred to as MLK Day, this day allows us as Americans to remember the sacrifices that were made to create a better future for us. The civil rights activists fought during a time where they could be harmed and/or killed for voicing their opinions about equality. Leaders like King spoke profoundly and walked valiantly throughout the streets in the United States of America, all the way to the streets of Washington, so the frustrations of the citizens could be heard around the world.

Take a moment on Martin Luther King Jr. Day this year to remember the turmoil that Americans faced prior to gaining civil rights, the resilience they demonstrated, and how our lives have changed because of it.

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Pencil and paper, the most iconic duo, have been my go-to tools for the majority of my school life. But with the rise of technology in the classroom, thanks to shareable files, folders, and notes, I decided to make a switch to digital notetaking in my sophomore year of university. Examples of digital notetaking tools include tablets or digital notebooks and smart pens. Making the switch to digital notetaking came with some pros and cons. Here are a few to consider before making the switch for yourself.

Cons

Third-party apps: I immediately noticed that I would need to download and/or purchase one or more apps to even make my digital notetaking dreams a reality. I knew what I was getting myself into in the first place, due to extensive research, so I wasn’t taken aback by this concept. But I do urge others who are considering spending a measurable amount of cash on a digital device for notetaking to consider other unmentioned costs that come with it. There are many different apps to consider when looking at digital notetaking, and it all depends on your preferences and needs. Look at your course work and learning style when shopping for notetaking apps, so that they are the best fit for you. I found looking up tutorials and videos for different apps to be the most helpful for me to discern my needs and making the best selection.

Affordability: Choosing the right device for your digital notetaking journey is important, since you are the one who will be using it! However, this will take some extensive research on your end. Look for device brands and/or stores that offer student discounts. Also consider your after-college needs from this device; for example, will you be able to continue to have a use for this device after graduation? For me, I knew that I would want continue with digital notetaking upon entering medical school.

Compatibility: When I first received my device, I was a little apprehensive about the compatibility when it came to other devices (aka my phone). I wasn’t sure where everything was or how to use it and I was considered returning it (I know!). Having different brand devices can make it difficult to successfully set up apps and access between devices. But it takes time! Take the time to get used to the device, especially if it’s a device that you don’t really know. Watch tutorials and step-by-step videos, get used to the feeling of writing with the device and where to access files and whatever you will need.

Pros

Everything in one place: I enjoy having files, notes, textbooks, apps, and photos from class all in one place. As a commuter student I end up carrying a lot of “unnecessary” things. Having everything all in one place not only lessens the load but makes everything easily accessible so I can access everything I need for a class on one single device. Accessibility means shareability, so if a classmate missed a lecture or needs a recording, I can easily send them a file without that many issues.

Readability: I noticed that when writing with regular pen and paper, my notes were either too scrawny, smeared, or completely illegible. Writing digitally helps this problem immensely. With different notetaking apps I am also able to record the lecture while simultaneously taking notes and go back through my notes to see exactly what I wrote. I also noticed that my writing was much neater and easier to read when I transcribed things digitally.

Manageable multitasking: Although multitasking is deemed the most heinous of heinous of study tips, having a device that can split screen and allow me to multitask is extremely beneficial and time efficient. I am able to watch a lecture and write my notes side by side, making it more efficient and bearable since it’s all on one device.

Digital notetaking definitely was a transition but so worth it in the end. So far, I have enjoyed the pros way more than I have suffered the cons. A lot of people feel very apprehensive since it is still so new in the world of academia. Explore digital notetaking options and consider your own learning style. You may find it to be just as useful as I have.

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 was just as nervous as the next guy. I was also excited, but worried I wouldn’t meet anyone or that I was wasting my time. I spent my first year hoping I would meet my best friends in a random class or somehow in a hallway. One day I was walking to the library, and I saw an individual wearing a “VolWake” t-shirt; now, I get to call this group of people my dearest friends because I decided to join that club.

The beginning of my college experience was anything but amazing. I experienced heartache, roommate drama, and confusion as to what direction I was headed. I found myself so miserable that I was considering transferring. I did not put much effort into being involved on campus nor did I use the resources I had in front of me to meet new people. I decided to join VolWake on a whim, and I was gifted my favorite surfboard, so I didn’t have much of a choice.

VolWake is the University of Tennessee’s Wakeboarding club; there are almost 100 members that are all college students who love to take part in water sports. I was insanely hesitant about joining this team. I was worried that I wouldn’t be good enough or that I wouldn’t make any friends. My first day on our boat countered my thoughts completely.

This team has allowed me to land and learn new tricks within weeks instead of months, and I am constantly surrounded by encouragement. My confidence on the water has grown tremendously. The people who are a part of this team are nothing but welcoming and talented; I am always surrounded by belly-laughs and amazing memories.

If you asked me exactly one year ago what my favorite part of college was, I wouldn’t be able to tell you; matter of fact, I would probably say travelling somewhere else. Now, I am surrounded by life-long friends who love the same things I do and enjoy my company. I couldn’t imagine a better group of people to spend my waking hours with, and I am extremely grateful that I have found my people.

With all of this being said, it is so important to get involved on your campus. There are so many opportunities and people that are waiting to LOVE YOU! Exploring all options on campus, no matter how terrifying they might be, can and will open the perfect doors for you. Take the risk and meet your best friends!!!

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When I first came to college, there were so many new and amazing opportunities that were plopped right in front of me. It was incredible to see all the new career paths, adventures, and professional opportunities I could enjoy. Not to mention all the social events and fun that could be had just a 5-minute walk away on a Thursday night. These opportunities were both exciting and extremely overwhelming. So many directions opened that I felt like I was looking everywhere all at once. Then, once I met my mentors, I realized that college mentors can provide you with incredibly valuable guidance that you may not find elsewhere. The realization of the importance of mentors to me forever changed my life. My mentors have helped me socially, professionally, financially, the list goes on!

My Mentors

Just a few months after beginning my freshman year of college, I made the decision to transfer schools. Some people transfer early on and others, much later. Regardless of when you do, it can be overwhelming. I know the feeling of relief that comes with finally deciding to transfer, however, I also know the nervous more-like-bees than butterflies feeling in your stomach that you also get when you finally get to that new campus. Here are some tips that I learned from my transfer experience as well as some things that I wish someone would have told me when I transferred. Also, if you are still considering whether or not to transfer, these tips might also help you make that decision (coming from someone who went back and forth for months before deciding).

Go to the Events

I know the feeling that may give you, I also dreaded being the new transfer student at campus events – but I promise it’s worth it. It’s so much better to try and know what clubs or groups are a fit (or not a fit for you) rather than wait until senior to realize there’s a group you should have joined much earlier on. Going to these campus/club events will help you meet more people and make connections on campus – the sooner you do this, the sooner you get adjusted to your new environment.

Reach Out to Acquaintances

It does really help to know a few students who are already adjusted to campus as you transfer. When I transferred schools, I realized while scrolling on Instagram one day that a girl I worked with at a restaurant while I was in high school went to the school I was transferring to. I hesitated but eventually decided to reach out to her via DM to see if she wanted to get lunch sometime. The very next semester, her and her twin sister became my roommates and my best friends. We still live together today, and I can’t imagine my college experience without them. So, take the shot and reach out even if you feel nervous!

Don’t Pass Up Opportunities

Many of the groups I’ve joined and positions I’ve held while at my transfer school are the result of me applying for positions or going to events that I almost didn’t do. Looking back now, I’m so extremely grateful that I decided to take on these opportunities because they’ve contributed so heavily to my experience. Check your school email, talk to your professors and see what ways you can get involved – you will not regret it.

Transferring can be overwhelming but it’s so worth it in the end. Be sure to put yourself out there and take on opportunities, you never know where they might lead you to. If you’re still considering whether or not to transfer schools, I’d advise you to picture yourself at your current school in the following semester – are you happy? Has anything from your current circumstances changed? (Different roommates, new major, etc.) If not, and if you’re struggling to find reasons to stay, transferring is not a bad idea. Everyone’s college experience is different and no one’s is perfect. Always remember to do what is going to be best for you!

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! 

Going back to campus after winter break can be an adjustment but it’s important to think of how you will stay organized throughout the semester. There will be new challenges and it is important to go in organized and prepared to eliminate as much stress as possible.

Get Organized with a Plan

At the beginning of a new semester, I love to use my Google or Outlook calendar and add the days and times of all my classes. I like to do this not only to know when my classes are but when adding other events, work etc. it is easier to visualize everything rather than keep track in your head. I also like to try and write a plan for my day and what I want to accomplish. This helps me stay on task and, besides, who doesn't love crossing off finished tasks from a list? Remember, if you don’t get everything done it's okay! I just use lists as a guide and reminder of what needs to be done. If you are a visual learner like me using these two tools can really help you stay on track and visualize your schedule to keep you organized.

Try New Things

Sometimes stress during a semester is inevitable, with a new schedule, academics and just adjusting in general, so knowing what helps you de-stress will ensure you are taking care of yourself. Every person is different so what works for someone else might not work for you. It took me a while to figure out what helps me when I’m stressed, and I realized it depends on what my mood is. Sometimes when I need a break I want to be surrounded by my friends and other times I just want to be by myself, go on a walk, or read a book. Self-care and de-stressing come in a lot of different forms so it’s important to identify what helps you.

Don’t Procrastinate

This may be the hardest part of being a college student. I feel like everyone has procrastinated at one point during their time in college. Sometimes it’s hard to balance a bunch of classes, clubs, and social life. Procrastination can cause stress because leaving all of your class work until the last minute can cause work to be turned in late, or not done correctly. Now, there are some people who thrive under pressure and save work until the last minute, but I feel like for most people that is not the case. You can try to reduce procrastination by setting a window of time for yourself when you are only going to do homework and see how much you can get done. Or try choosing a specific day to work on assignments from each class so your focus stays on one subject at a time.

Know Yourself

Organization can be tricky to figure out for yourself, but once you do it will make your life so much easier! What works for someone else might not work for you. You know yourself best and it's important to remember that. If you try something and it doesn’t work, switch it up and try a new organizational tactic. Staying organized will only help you and your mental health to have an enjoyable 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! 

Starting college can be both exciting and overwhelming. As a freshman, you find yourself in a new location, surrounded by new people, and immersed in a completely different environment. The transition to university life can be challenging, especially when it comes to navigating financial responsibilities, time management, and understanding the people surrounding you, all independently. Suddenly, we are expected to be adults, figuring out our way through this uncharted territory.

My college journey began during the Covid-19 pandemic, and the shift to online learning posed its own set of obstacles. While it helped me pass my classes, it hindered the opportunity to make genuine connections with fellow students. Zoom University became a barrier to the vibrant college experience I had envisioned.

However, after a whole year, I finally got a taste of the college experience I had longed for. Stepping onto campus, I was uncertain where to start. In elementary and high school, I had a consistent group of friends, but now I found myself surrounded by new faces from diverse backgrounds. One valuable lesson I learned early on was the importance of joining clubs and organizations. They became the gateway to finding like-minded individuals and forming meaningful connections. These groups provided me with a platform to network and expand my horizons. Organizations such as Touch-n-Go, Latino Pilot Association, Theta Phi Alpha, and Pearson played pivotal roles in shaping the person I am today.

Touch-N-Go, a branch of my school’s student government association, provided me with an avenue to pursue my passion for community service while connecting me with like-minded peers who shared the same drive to make a difference. Within this organization, I had the pleasure of meeting some of the craziest, funniest, and most interesting individuals. Each person's story served as a valuable life lesson, reminding me that whatever challenges I faced, I was not alone. The sense of camaraderie and shared experiences within Touch-N-Go fostered a supportive environment where we could uplift and inspire one another. Being part of this organization taught me the power of unity and the profound impact we can have when we come together with a common purpose.

I have gained so much from two additional student organizations as well. Joining the Latino Pilot Association not only allowed me to celebrate different diverse heritage but also connected me with mentors who guided me through my academic journey. And Theta Phi Alpha, a sorority dedicated to empowering women, provided me with a sisterhood that became my support system for everything. It offered opportunities for personal and professional growth, fostering leadership skills and lifelong friendships.

Working at both Pearson and the Print Shop (campus job) since freshman year provided me with invaluable real-world work experience. These opportunities allowed me to develop essential skills, while also networking with mentors, students, and influential individuals. Through these connections, I gained enrichment and a stronger sense of belonging within my field of interest. These workplaces became more than just jobs; they became second homes that shaped me personally and professionally.

To every freshman navigating the daunting world of college, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and explore the multitude of clubs and organizations available to you. Embrace the diversity and unique perspectives that your fellow students bring. Find your tribe, your support system, and your platform for growth. Remember, college is not just about textbooks and exams; it's about the connections you make, the experiences you have, and the person you become. Embrace the journey, seize opportunities, and let the college experience mold you into the best version of yourself.

While the beginning of college may seem overwhelming, joining clubs and organizations can be the key to finding connection, personal growth, and a sense of belonging. Embrace the diverse community that surrounds you, and let it enrich your college experience. Step out of your comfort zone, take risks, and allow yourself to be transformed. Your college years will become the foundation of a lifelong journey filled with knowledge, friendships, and personal achievements.

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 soon as winter break comes to a close, some college students will be traveling back to campus in order to join a Greek life organization. Whether you’re a freshman girl who has been waiting for rush week all semester, or a junior guy looking to rush to meet a good group of friends, the entire rush process can be a stressful one.

To calm some nerves, I have compiled some advice about the process from my friends at colleges all across the US. I hope you find it helpful as you go through this stressful, but genuinely fun and rewarding experience!

Xavier Kretsinger-Walters - James Madison University
“Sounds obvious, but be yourself. Chances are, if you change up your personality just to fit in or get a bid, you'll end up in an organization that you won't feel connected to. Find a Greek organization with similar personalities where you see yourself making good connections and friendships.”

Alivia Clay - Texas Christian University
“I would say to follow your gut. I felt most at home at a sorority that wasn't considered a top house and because of everyone else's opinions I ended up choosing the "better sorority" that hasn't been a great fit. Sometimes the houses that are the least popular have the most fun and where you'll find the most friends. Just follow your heart <3 Good luck!”

AJ Vazquez - Indiana University Indianapolis
“I would say to go with the group of people that you best fit with and that you feel you can be yourself. A Greek organization is meant to better young men and women and it’s key to find an organization that feels like a home away from home. I also encourage those interested in Greek life to rush all chapters they can and not focus on the number of members or anything they’ve heard but to judge based on their personal experience and perspective.”

Student - University of Florida
“Just be yourself and don’t be scared to answer any questions! They just want to get to know you for who you are!”

Cassidy Chinn - University of Georgia
“Always be authentic to who you are! The rush process can be hyped up and super stressful, but you really do find where you are meant to be. Greek life is great, and you really do get out what you put into it!”

Jasmine Ferrante - University of Maine
“I would say to always be yourself and not change who you are! You will end up in the right chapter for you and thrive in the chapter.”

Victoria Kaplan - UC Berkeley
“Rush week can be incredibly exhausting, so make sure you take time for yourself to properly recharge and be the best version of yourself. While you may think you absolutely need to be in a certain house, at the end of the day the people you click with make the best friends!”

Michelle Qi - Florida State University
“Be open minded because you will be happy where you end up and you WILL find your perfect family! It can feel overwhelming at times but stay strong and know that there is always a house for you!!”

Jen Fiengo - Coastal Carolina University
“I personally went through spring recruitment. If you don’t walk into the room and feel comfortable, that sorority is not for you. You need to go somewhere that feels like home, and you will know it when you feel it.”

To sum all that up, the whole point of the process is to find your home and a group of people you want to spend college with. Good luck, trust the process, don’t stress, and you will find your people 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!