Students blog

Dogs are man’s best friend, and I have found that the most perfect way to destress in college is to spend some time at my local animal shelter. However, I have learned that no two dogs are alike, just like college majors. Based on my extensive time spent with both dogs and other college students, here are some similarities I have found between the two, and what dog breed I believe you are based on your major.

Business: Golden Retriever

Whether your business major falls under accounting and finance or marketing and management, a golden retriever is the definition of a business type of dog. Sometimes called the “easy major”, golden retrievers can be blown off as goofy dogs, but they are serious workers and often seen as K9s and service dogs, in the same way that business students are seen all over the workforce.

Journalism: Beagle

Known as hunting dogs (always looking for a good story), these loyal and happy-go-lucky dogs are the perfect comparison for journalism majors. Like these dogs, journalism majors are outgoing but also hard workers.

Speech Pathology: Border Collie

Easily trainable, attention to detail, fun but focused, all things that make border collies and speech path majors similar. They are hard workers and know how to have fun, but also are down for a night in after the workday is done, which is a trait all my favorite speech path majors exhibit.

Design: Cocker Spaniel

Arguably the most beautiful dog, the perfect example of a design major is a cocker spaniel. These dogs are sociable and adaptable, just like design majors, and are always looking their best, while impressing everyone around them.

Pre-Med: German Shepherds

In my opinion, these are the smartest dogs. Similar to golden retrievers, they are seen in all the “dog workforces” and are super intelligent and loyal to their people. Although pre-med students can be considered less sociable, similar to German shepherds, I believe it is just because they are harder workers than most of us, and sometimes that can be intimidating.

If you enjoyed these comparisons, I encourage you to check out your local animal shelter, and spend some time with different breeds, and make some of your own, as well as add to my list!

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In 2008, a small, wide-eyed child would enter her first Kindergarten classroom. She would fall in love with the sights, the smells, the people, and the atmosphere. Her teachers would inspire her to be just like them when she grew up. Over the years, she would learn about the joys of reading, writing, and mathematics and anxiously wait for each school year to start again. Each teacher would plant a seed in this child’s pre-elementary school mind that would grow for the rest of her school career.

That child was me.

Evolving Why

Deciding that I wanted to be a teacher was easy. I watched other kids bounce back and forth between a doctor or an astronaut or a lawyer, but my career choice has remained unchanged. However, the reason for my choice has evolved. At first, I thought teachers were just people who knew more than everyone else and had all the answers. As an adolescent, I wanted to be “smart” and share my knowledge with others. As I entered adulthood, I began to understand that, while teachers are incredibly intelligent, they are just regular people who want to make a difference. Not to mention, they are intelligent in a way that is far more valuable than what can be taught in textbooks. Teachers must have immense emotional, social, and situational intellect in order to work effectively with students. Now that I’m in college, I strive to be as well-rounded of a teacher as those I've been lucky enough to learn from when I was in grade school.

Evolving Who

Overall, I knew, one day, I would end up at the front of a classroom. Determining what age-group and subject I wanted to teach was not defined so early. As I moved through each grade, I always ended the year saying I wanted to teach the grade I had just finished instead of the previous grade. That came to a screeching halt when I reached high school. I enjoyed the challenge of high school subjects and liked the material that I was learning more than I ever had before. I then knew that I wanted to teach high school... but I still hadn’t picked a subject.

Evolving What

I loved reading while in elementary school. You could always find me somewhere flicking the pages of a book like I just couldn’t wait to get to the next chapter. Throughout middle school, I thought I had my mind made up that I would major in English in college. Easy. Done. But not quite, because when I got to high school, I fell in love with my math courses. It probably helped that I had some incredible teachers for Geometry, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus, but there was something addicting about finding that one right answer to a problem. I still enjoy reading and writing and loved my English courses too, but I knew that I didn’t have the same passion for it as mathematics.

So, career? Teaching. Age group? High school. Subject? Math. I felt like I had all my questions answered and I was excited for the future.

There are times where I doubt my abilities or wonder if I am good enough to be an educator, especially in a subject as difficult as math, but then I remember the unwavering confidence that my teachers had in this one child. If they believe I can do it, then so should I.

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In recent years, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields have experienced a notable shift. Traditionally male-dominated, the barriers limiting women’s full participation in these disciplines are gradually decreasing. The push for gender equality has made a movement, encouraging more women to pursue STEM careers, and the positive impact of this shift is evident.

Diversity in the workplace is key for innovation and success. Recognizing the value of diverse perspectives, experiences, and approaches builds problem-solving and creativity. As the demand for innovative solutions to global challenges grows, a diverse talent pool in STEM becomes crucial. Women bring unique viewpoints that can inspire breakthroughs in technology, medicine, and engineering, creating an inclusive advancement of these fields.

Efforts to bridge the gender gap in STEM begin from an early age, with initiatives encouraging girls to pursue STEM subjects gaining momentum. Programs challenge stereotypes, providing inclusive science and math environments, demonstrating to young girls that they too can excel in traditionally male-dominated professions.

Support networks and mentorship programs play a vital role in empowering women in STEM. Creating environments where women feel encouraged and valued allows them to thrive. These programs connect aspiring female scientists, engineers, and technologists with experienced professionals, providing guidance and inspiration to navigate the challenges and opportunities in STEM careers.

Flexible work arrangements are essential for attracting and retaining women in STEM. The balance of work and family responsibilities has often deterred women from these demanding fields. Companies implementing flexible policies and supportive work environments are better positioned to retain and advance women in STEM, contributing to a more diverse and dynamic workforce.

As societal perceptions of STEM evolve, breaking down stereotypes is crucial for creating an inclusive culture. Highlighting the achievements of women in STEM through media and education shifts perceptions, inspiring future generations of female scientists and engineers.

Furthermore, individuals like me can actively contribute to gender equality in STEM. During my time within the Magic City Data Collective Cohort, I engage in projects showcasing data science and the importance of diversity in problem-solving. I was also a STEM mentor for a community college back in my hometown where I worked with aspiring young women that wanted to work and go to college within STEM fields and helped them pursue their passions through different projects and trips.

Another example is through serving the University of Alabama’s IT department as their student assistant. I contributed to creating an environment welcoming and supporting women in technology by being prime key in their ticket desk service as the few minorities that work in that department.

Lastly, my internship at Southern Company presented a challenge as well by being the only intern and African American worker in that department. Despite these challenges, I embraced the opportunity to contribute my perspectives and experiences to the teams I worked on and was able to address and experience challenges faced by women of color in STEM.

In conclusion, the increasing involvement of women in STEM, along with the efforts of individuals, makes a positive and transformative development. As barriers continue to expand, I still believe we can expect to see an increase in innovation and progress with more women joining. People like you and I can be a part of paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse scientific community.

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For most college students the transition from high school studies to college studies can be very difficult and hard to adjust to. There are many ways to learn how to study and succeed. During my freshman year at the University of Alabama, I felt very prepared to do well in school from my high school experience. As a current sophomore at the university, I have had to learn new ways to study since the difficulty of my classes has increased immensely. 

I am a nursing major and am delving further into my program now more than ever before. When I took a challenging anatomy course last semester, I sought help on how to navigate this class, because there was so much to learn in such a short amount of time. I found it necessary to devote the most time to this class while still putting in the most effort I could for my other classes. Here are the actions I found to be most helpful in succeeding.

Show up for every class session

The best tip and piece of advice I can give to any college student is to attend class no matter what, regardless of how easy the class may seem. I have learned that I am more successful in the future because of it, and it makes studying outside of class much easier. My notes are more organized because I write them in or before class. 

Take notes before, during, and after class

A good way to study for a hard class is to take notes before with the required reading and then solidify the information during class. This way you can incorporate extra details the professor might add during class. Even though this is very important, what a student does outside of class makes or breaks how a student does in a class. Being able to have a good work ethic and studying outside of class helps a student remember the information. That way when it is exam day, you are prepared to take the exam and pass it. 

Solidify your study skills

A good study habit to do well on a test is to find a good study environment. Go in a quiet room, without any distractions, and study the material. The way to solidify the information is to also take breaks when necessary. It is always best to refer to the detailed notes and the PowerPoints. Looking back at these are necessary to understand the information you have learned, and to best answer the questions on the test. It is also essential to never cram study in college. That will not be beneficial for the future, as it does not allow for you to fully understand the material.

In most academic situations in college, the work and effort you put into each class will pay off in the future. If you study for your classes, it'll show, even if not right away. You will never regret the amount of effort you put into a class in order to succeed.

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Life as a project-based student has its highs and lows. Typically, college students can be found studying in coffee shops, working in the library with friends, or even curling up on the couch working on homework. But for a project-based student, that might not be an option. As a landscape architecture student, most of my time is spent in the studio working on computer/hand graphic projects. This looks like spending upwards of 20 hours a week in the same classroom, with the same people, with the same professors, working on design projects.

Strong Community

This might sound like a hefty experience, but there are many pros that come along with working mainly on projects: I don't have tests often, I get to know the people in my classes, and I get to delegate my time how I want to. One project could last months, but in that time frame I get to become close with my classmates and professors, and we get to bond over working on the same project for long periods of time. Most other majors don't have the opportunity to fully get to know your classmates, but the community work environment of a design major makes it vital to succeeding in class.

Marathon Studio Time

The average work week for me looks like having studio time on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1:30 to 5:20. On top of that I might need to be spending some of my time in the studio getting ahead or catching up. Having that amount of class time might seem wild but having that separated class time just to work is vital and has taught me a lot about how to manage my time well. During a busy project, I might be spending 30-plus hours a week in the same room with the same people.

Real-World Career Preparation

There are some downsides to spending so much time in the studio. The timeline of projects can be daunting, spending time with the same people for large amounts of time can be hard, and getting along with professors can become challenging. But all these things allow for benefits in the work environment. Down the line whenever we get a real job, there are going to be tough work relations and tough deadlines. The landscape architecture program truly prepares you for what life could be like outside of school.

Most majors have it differently with their exams, but I enjoy creating these projects. I’ve enjoyed the relationships I’ve been able to build with peers and professors since we have to work on the same projects over a long time. This will transfer over into the real world of architecture, which I will hopefully be in soon enough!

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Pursuing computer science at an Historically Black College or University (HBCU) is a tapestry woven with challenges, triumph, and countless insights, many that come with being a first-generation Black woman in a field where diversity is often a rarity. Here are just a few that I have experienced in my time at an HBCU.

Choosing the Path

Choosing to major in computer science was an intentional decision, driven by a profound passion for technology and a desire to contribute to a field where more diversity is necessary, but lacking.

Navigating Challenges and Celebrating Triumphs

Life as a first-generation student presents itself as a long journey, characterized by a myriad of challenges and triumphs. The intricacies of deciphering complex programming problems to grappling with the stereotypes deeply rooted in the field of technology, has been challenging but also rewarding. The highs and lows of my academic journey serve as a vivid canvas, illustrating the resilience needed to navigate uncharted territories.

Mentorship

Mentorship is a crucial component of being successful in any field. Mentors, with their sage advice and unwavering support, have played an instrumental role in shaping not only the trajectory of my studies but also my understanding of the field. Their influence extends beyond academia, permeating into the essence of personal development.

Diversity and Inclusion

At the heart of my experience lies diversity within STEM at my HBCU. Being part of a community that embraces diversity and fosters inclusion has made a profound impact on both who I am as a student and who I am as a person. The unique environment of my university has not only enriched my education journey but has also become a catalyst for innovation, creativity, and a broader perspective on the possibilities within the realm of computer science.

Resilience

In the face of challenges, resilience emerges as a constant companion. As I continue my journey, bouncing back, learning from failures, and keeping an unwavering determination all have propelled me forward. Resilience is not just a trait; it is an enduring narrative woven intricately into the fabric of my journey.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Other than my passion for technology and diversity, I also have a commitment to motivate the next generation. I come from a small town in south Louisiana, where the younger generation are not aware of all of the possibilities that can be offered to them. As a first-generation student, a Black woman, and a torchbearer for diversity in STEM, the responsibility to inspire others becomes a central theme. I strive to provide a blueprint for success in the face of adversity.

The collective journey we navigate together is a commitment to shaping a future where diversity is an undeniable part of technological innovation. As we traverse the dynamic landscape of STEM, the hope is for shared narratives to inspire and empower. As the journey continues, we strive for a reality where the pioneers of today pave the way for those of tomorrow.

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Back in 2017, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) conducted a study called the Nursing Knowledge survey. The results of this survey gave valuable insights with the evolving changes happening in nursing education and practice, and ensured that the nurses on the floors are well-prepared to provide safe and effective care. The NCSBN developed an upgraded version of the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) now called the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN), which went into effect in April 2023. Here are the 3 top things to keep in mind when taking the NGN.

1. Protect Your Patients' Lives!

The NCLEX is an exam used to analyze one main thing at its core: how safe of a nurse are you? Patient safety is a priority in nursing practice, and the NGN underscores this by presenting scenarios that focus on safe and effective care. Test-takers will need to demonstrate that they can use the knowledge learned from nursing school, convert it into critical thinking and apply that to the answer. The exam aims to ensure that new nurses are well-prepared to provide care that minimizes risks and maximizes positive outcomes.

2. You Need to Use Your Critical Thinking.

This is not the same as high school exams. The NGN places a significant emphasis on clinical judgment, going beyond the traditional knowledge-based questions. When analyzing the clinical judgment is the ability to make informed decisions based on critical thinking and real-world scenarios. This means that test-takers will encounter questions that present complex patient situations, requiring them to analyze data, prioritize interventions, and make sound clinical decisions. This shift reflects the need for nurses to be competent and confident decision-makers in dynamic healthcare environments.

3. Reflecting Real-World Scenarios:

The NGN draws from real-world nursing scenarios to create questions that mirror the challenges nurses face daily. This means that candidates won't just be tested on theoretical knowledge; they will need to apply their critical thinking into practical situations. The goal is to prepare nurses who can seamlessly transition from the classroom to the clinical setting, ready to address the complexities of modern healthcare. They will be implementing this on the new exam with a new question type called a Case Scenario. They will present to you a single case that can have 2-8 questions based on the case scenario.

If you are a nursing student or a future nursing student, do not freak out. Becoming more aware of what will be on the Next Generation NCLEX will ease your anxiety and give you an understanding of what is to be expected for this exam. By understanding these 3 key aspects of the Next Generation exam, you can prepare yourself to be a nurse that can safely execute tasks and assignments. However, you will truly know how to be a good nurse once you are working on the floor.

Keep studying!

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Choosing a major for college can be overwhelming, especially with all the options out there. Lucky for me I was able to figure out what I wanted to major in while still in high school. My name is Anna Garner, and I am going to share the story about how a teacher from my high school helped me find my love for my major.

How It All Started

I was a junior in high school when I decided I wanted to major in marketing. I had taken lots of different elective classes because I was not sure what I wanted to do for a career. I took animal science, nursing, and marketing classes for three years trying to figure out which path was right for me. Did I want to be a vet, a nurse, or a businesswoman?

One Special Teacher

So how did I decide? I found myself always excited to go to my marketing classes. I liked the way I got to be creative and show a different side of me. It seemed to be something that came easily to me. My marketing teacher Mrs. Miller also played a big part in my decision. She was a great teacher who came up with projects that challenged me in a good way and sparked my interest in learning more.

Join the Club

She had a career in marketing before teaching and was able to share her experience with me. She also served as the advisor to a school club called Distributive Education clubs of America (DECA) that I joined my junior year. This club was business focused, and we would practice real world situations and come up with business plans for fake companies. Each year we would compete in a competition with other schools to show off our business skills. This club gave me experience I needed to peacefully choose my major.

Explore the Possibilities

Whether you are still in high school or already starting your college career, utilizing your resources is the best advice I could give someone trying to figure out what they want their major to be. Take advantage of any electives offered and look at them like a trial run. Get involved with different clubs to see if any of them spark your interest. Network with people who are in the career you are considering to see if their experience can help you decide. I know those things helped me and I am sure they can help others too!

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It takes a great deal of courage to finally take that step, make that phone call, or walk out that door. Many college students are studying in order to have successful careers once they graduate. Some may know exactly which direction they want to take, while others may only know a broader view of what they want their lives to look like. Regardless, it can be exceedingly difficult finding motivation to take risks and put ourselves into the situations we need to be in to turn our dreams into reality.

Few Opportunities

As a second-year undergraduate student that aspires to someday be accepted into vet school and obtain a degree in veterinary medicine, I know these emotions firsthand. Finding experience within my field was no easy feat. It seemed like no matter how many emails I sent or how many phone calls I made; nobody was looking for any assistance from a college student. In truth, I felt horribly behind my peers, who told of growing up on farms or having extensive animal experience since they were young. It made me begin to lose motivation and feel like I was never going to catch up.

Everyone’s Path is Different

It is essential to realize that everyone is on a unique path, and that progress happens at different paces. For me, that was this most recent summer. After what seemed like an endless number of back-and-forth calls, texts, and emails, I found myself gaining new experiences in my field that I never before dreamed of. For others, this may look like a new internship or shadowing opportunity. For me, I was able to begin working as a veterinary assistant at a local clinic, working as a volunteer/intern with farm animals, and shadowing a veterinarian that worked with horses. In these past months, I have learned more than I have in my entire life about my chosen field, and this has done nothing but encourage me to keep going and fight for what I believe in.

Don’t Let Your Attitude Define Your Magnitude

I would have never been able to gain this experience if I hadn’t been able to step out of the comfortable life that I was used to. Feeling anxious and behind in my career held me back but realizing that instead of viewing my lack of experience as a hinderance, I could embrace the learning process and approach each new experience with curiosity and enthusiasm.

Today, I am so grateful to myself for taking that step. I hope to encourage others that they have the ability to pursue whatever they wish to in life. It means taking on new challenges, networking with those in your field, and waking up every morning with the ambition to learn. Anything is possible!

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!