Students blog

In college, there is a wide variety of schools within a single university. Each has its own majors, stereotypes, challenges, traditions, and norms.

However, we rarely hear about the unique quirks woven deep within each school. As a sophomore art student, I want to move beyond the stereotypes of art school and share a few unique qualities I’ve learned about my school.

Long Classes and Critiques

The first thing I noticed about the art school was how long the classes are. Typically, a studio art class at my university is three hours long. This time is used for working on projects in the studio, collaborating with classmates, observing art demonstrations, and much more.

Another common practice in the art school is holding class critiques. These are days when we present our projects to the class and explain the process, any challenges, the meaning of the work, and other details. In return, we receive feedback from peers and professors that helps refine our techniques, strategies, and artistic presentation skills.

A Living Studio

In the art community, displaying artwork is just as important as the process of creating it. It is very common to see flyers for student-run gallery shows all over the walls. There are gallery rooms located throughout the building that are open for students to display their work for a few weeks at a time.

It is inspiring to see these exhibitions while walking to class. Another thing you commonly see around my art school, in particular, is graffiti. Although it’s not typically legal to vandalize a building, art students are encouraged to use the entire building as a studio.

Students are usually allowed to work on projects around the building during or outside of class. Marks and messes left from past projects in the hallways are turned into artwork through an unspoken collaboration. This gives students the freedom to create through improvisation and provides a safe space to express themselves, no matter how messy it gets.

Curriculum and Creative Clutter

As an art student, I follow a curriculum designed to expose me to multiple art mediums and different ways of creating. For example, everyone has to take the fundamental courses in each art medium within the school. This allows students to build a portfolio of artwork needed for the midway review system, known as the Block Review at my school.

What happens to all those random art supplies and projects students collect over time that they may never use again? My school has lengthened the life cycle of these items through pop-up events where students can sell old projects and supplies. They can also donate scrap materials and tools to the art center.

The Big Picture

Long classes, critiques, and creative messes are just a few of the qualities that define life in art school. It’s more than just learning to draw or paint; it’s about being immersed in the world of art.

This perspective has taught me to find creativity in the everyday, practice creative problem-solving, and constantly refine my techniques. Ultimately, art school is a space that encourages students to make their mark, and I can’t wait to see what else it has to offer.

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My “Perfect” Plan

When I first started college, I thought I had everything planned out. I entered as a biology major on the pre-dental track, fully expecting that I would one day become a dentist. It felt like a solid, respectable path, one that made sense not just to me but to the people around me.

At the time, I believed that having a clear plan meant I was ahead.

Expectation vs. Reality

As time went on, I started to question whether that path was actually right for me. Through my classes and experiences, I realized that while I could succeed in biology, it didn’t excite me the way I hoped it would.

I found myself more drawn to creativity, communication, and understanding how people think. These interests didn’t quite align with the career I had originally chosen.

Admitting the mismatch between my expectations and my experience was difficult. It felt like I was stepping away from a plan I had already invested time and energy into.

A Change of Direction

Eventually, I made the decision to change my major to public relations and advertising, with a minor in psychology. It wasn’t an easy switch, and it definitely didn’t feel like a “perfectly planned” move. Still, it was the first time I felt genuinely aligned with what I was studying.

Instead of forcing myself into a path that didn’t fit, I gave myself the space to explore something that did.

The Freedom of Not Knowing

That experience taught me an important lesson: not having everything figured out isn’t a setback; it’s part of the process.

There’s a lot of pressure in college to have your future mapped out early. But the reality is that most people are still figuring things out as they go.

Interests change. Priorities shift. And sometimes, the path you thought was right for you turns out not to be. That doesn’t mean you’ve failed; it means you’ve learned something valuable about yourself.

Career Paths are Rarely Linear

Changing direction can feel intimidating, especially when it means starting over in some ways. But it also opens the door to opportunities you might not have discovered otherwise. If I had stayed on the pre-dental track just because it was my original plan, I might never have explored my interest in advertising or realized how much I enjoy it.

It’s also important to remember that career paths are rarely linear. Many people end up in fields completely different from what they originally studied. What matters more than sticking to one plan is being willing to adapt, learn, and grow along the way.

Your Journey, Your Pace

Looking back, I’m grateful that I didn’t have everything figured out from the start. Not knowing forced me to reflect, take risks, and ultimately choose a path that felt right for me, not just one that looked good on paper.

If you’re feeling uncertain about your future, you’re not alone. It’s okay to change your mind. It’s okay to take a different path. And it’s definitely okay not to have everything figured out yet.

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Completing a college degree is a huge achievement. Completing two can feel like enduring hurricane season each semester.

The ‘model semester’ may be a perfect fit for one major. But creating a flawless combination for two can become a whirlwind of conflicting deadlines and priorities.

However, you can weather this storm. Organization becomes a shutter against the chaos, and putting in extra effort from the beginning will provide a margin for error when you face the strongest winds.

Charting Your Course

Before starting a dual degree, think about why you want to pursue it. Will this benefit you in the job market? Do you have the time and headspace to take on two degrees in four years?

Will your degrees overlap? Or will this path cause complete exhaustion and burnout, and leave you stranded after graduation? Will you have the opportunity to showcase both degrees, or will you just have two plaques on the wall?

Finding the Silver Lining

The forecast for a dual degree includes plenty of challenges. However, it also promises an abundance of opportunities. A dual degree can showcase hidden talents that might not otherwise have the chance to shine through.

I came in as a political science major, a degree full of analysis and lengthy readings. Adding a major in marketing, however, allows me to showcase my creative side and problem-solving skills.

I initially thought I wouldn’t want to hone these skills, especially since marketing stems from a business degree. Business degrees originally seemed boring to me, but this new path has been inspiring and allows me to see the full expanse of possibilities I could pursue.

Both degrees combined create a clearer path to what I want to accomplish. I am on track to attend law school and study business law. These two degrees combine to give me the greatest opportunity to achieve my future goals.

Expanding Your Horizons

Dual degrees also increase opportunities for real-world experience, which is a major distinction in a pile of résumés. One degree provides a narrow channel for internships. Having two opens up multiple currents, or a potential crossover.

Is a dual degree a challenge? Absolutely. But the reward is more than just two diplomas to hang on a wall. It’s the discovery of what you’re capable of when you connect different parts of yourself. You learn to synthesize ideas, manage complexity, and ultimately, build a more versatile and confident you.

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Going into college, I thought I had my life planned out. I planned to major in marketing and eventually work in the fashion industry. I am now in my junior year of college and have a completely different idea of what I want my life to look like.

The First Detour

The summer after my first year of college, I had an opportunity to work in the field I believed was my future. As much as I enjoyed my time there, it was not something that I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I knew that I wanted a job where I could help people.

When I thought about giving back and helping others, the medical field came to mind, so I changed my major to biological sciences. Input from people around me also influenced my choice, and at the time, it felt right.

A Change of Heart

I am someone who enjoys learning about many different things, including chemistry and biology. I spent a lot of time thinking about my future career but forgot to factor in what I wanted my life to look like.

I wanted to get into dermatology. However, medical school and the rigorous schedule that comes with the profession were not what I wanted for my future. After a lot of research, I concluded that this simply was not the path for me.

Finding the Right Fit

Once I realized this, I took some time to really think about what I wanted to do and what I wanted my life to look like. Looking back, this was an awfully big decision for an eighteen-year-old to make.

I had no idea what I wanted. The thought that I could take my life in one hundred different directions was beyond overwhelming. After taking time by myself to figure out my interests, I spoke with my advisor and changed my major for the final time.

I chose to major in criminal justice because of the diverse opportunities within the legal field. To account for my indecisiveness and varied interests, I knew I needed to pick something that would allow for career versatility.

It's Okay Not to Know

I realized that not knowing what you want is okay. Every chaotic and stressful moment along the way helped me figure out what I wanted in the end. Even now, I do not know exactly what I want to do. Still, if there is anything I have learned, it is that finding the path is part of the journey.

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 is overwhelming. You’re surrounded by new people, clubs, and endless academic possibilities. It’s exciting, but it’s a lot.

At eighteen, you’re expected to have your life figured out, which is terrifying. Most students I know have questioned their major at least once, if not five times.

That’s normal. Changing your major or exploring a new field doesn’t mean you’re lost; it means you’re figuring out who you are.

If you had told my first-year self I’d graduate with a Spanish degree, I would have been shocked. But learning a second language was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Finding My Path

When I first got to Marquette, I was majoring in Criminology and Law Studies. After my first semester, I became passionate about Social Welfare and Justice, so I switched majors. Shortly after, I realized my career options were limited, so I made it a minor instead and brought back my Criminology major.

Fast-forward to sophomore year, and I found myself drawn to Psychology, so I decided to add it as a minor. When I needed one more class, I saw “Spanish 1003” and thought, “Why not?”

That decision changed my academic path. By junior year, I was a Criminology and Psychology double major, but I kept the Spanish minor simply because I loved it.

Language programs are often small, which made my experience special. My professors know me by name and genuinely care about my well-being.

Every class felt personal, and I formed relationships with each professor. That connection gave me a community on a large campus that I didn’t realize I was missing.

Spanish Tutoring for Service Learning

Learning Spanish opened unexpected doors. A junior-year class offered Service Learning, so I chose to tutor Spanish at St. Joseph’s K-12 School in Milwaukee.

I tutored two sixth-grade boys who had just moved from Mexico. They spoke little English and were in all-English classrooms. The school’s students were from predominantly Latinx households, but with only one bilingual aide, the need for support was huge.

Each week, I spent two hours with them, practicing English and working on homework. Helping bridge that language gap for those kids was my most rewarding college experience.

That experience taught me that learning a language isn’t just about speaking it. It’s about understanding people, their culture, and their struggles. It’s a window into another’s world.

Self-Development and Community

If you’ve ever considered learning another language, do it. Talk to your advisor or just sign up for an intro class. You never know where it might take you.

The number of college students taking foreign language classes has dropped significantly in the past decade.[1] This is a trend I hope will change.

Learning Spanish didn’t just shape my academics; it shaped who I am. It gave me new friends and a new way to connect with people. If you want a class to change your college experience, there’s no time like the present.

[1] Natalia Lusin, Terri Peterson, Christine Sulewski, and Rizwana Zafer. “Enrollments in Languages Other Than English in US Institutions of Higher Education, Fall 2021.” Modern Language Association. 2023. https://www.mla.org/content/download/191324/file/Enrollments-in-Languages-Other-Than-English-in-US-Institutions-of-Higher-Education-Fall-2021.pdf.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

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

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

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

Resetting the Clock on Time Management

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

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

Discovering New Passion in a New Major

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

Growth Through Self-Awareness and Adaptability

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

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

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

Growing up, I watched my father build a high-end transportation company from the ground up. He didn’t have a college degree or a roadmap, just a relentless work ethic and the drive to succeed.

As a first-generation college student, that hustle inspired me throughout business school. I knew I wanted a career where I could build something meaningful, help my community, and create a legacy of my own.

I didn’t enter college with a network in finance, but I was determined to leave with direction, confidence, and a solid foundation. So, I got involved. I joined a sorority, became a part of the Pearson Campus Ambassador program, participated in the Pre-Law Club, and was inducted into my university’s all-Greek honors society. Each space taught me something different: how to lead, how to speak up, and how to navigate unfamiliar rooms with confidence. By the time I earned my degree in Business, I wasn’t just finishing school. I was building something real for myself and laying the groundwork for the career I envisioned.

Getting My Foot in the Door

Right after graduation, I became licensed in Life and Health Insurance in my home state and joined Bankers Life and Casualty. I now work with clients across Maine, Virginia, and Florida to help them plan for retirement, navigate Medicare, and protect their families through life insurance and long-term care solutions.

At the same time, I’m pursuing my MBA and preparing for the LSAT exam, with long-term goals of becoming a financial advisor and eventually a trust and estate attorney. As a current rookie agent, I’m learning that finance isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the people. It’s about listening, earning trust, and empowering others to make informed decisions about their futures.

If there’s one thing I hope younger women in college take away from my journey, it’s this: you don’t have to wait to start. This is especially true in an industry where women are still underrepresented. The earlier you take action, the more prepared and powerful you’ll be.

Three Things I’d Tell My First-Year Student Self (Now That I’ve Lived It)

1. You won’t feel ready, and that’s exactly when you should start. The people who seem confident? They just started before you. Still, that doesn’t mean you’re behind; you are building momentum.

2. You don’t need to be the loudest to be respected. Listen carefully, speak with purpose, and know that your quiet confidence will grow into leadership over time.

3. The room might not look like you; go in anyway. You belong, even if you’re the only woman or the youngest in the room. Take a seat, take up space, and keep showing up. That’s how change starts.

Turning Ambition into Action

Stepping into the financial industry as a recent graduate hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been worth it. I’ve grown through every awkward client call, every moment of self-doubt, and every challenge that pushed me to improve.

I didn’t have a roadmap. I had ambition, a support system I built from scratch, and the belief that I could do something meaningful.

If you’re just starting out, know this: you don’t have to be fearless to move forward. You just have to be willing. Be willing to learn, ask questions, speak up, and keep going even when it’s uncomfortable.

This industry needs more women. It needs your voice, your perspective, and your ideas. And there’s no rule that says you can’t be the first or the one who changes everything.

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! 

So, you’re thinking about a master’s degree. Or maybe you’ve already started one. Either way, welcome! You’re in good company.

I entered college knowing I wanted to apply for my school’s five-year Master’s of Education program—but honestly? It was still scary.

Course planning, advisor meetings, recommendation letters, and essays were all part of the climb. When the long-awaited acceptance finally arrived (yay!), I felt like I’d climbed a mountain.

But then came the reality check: I still had to complete the program. Cue the overwhelm.

Master Your Master’s

Whether you’re at the beginning or somewhere in the middle, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement, nerves, and questions. The good news? You’re not alone.

Here are some tips I’ve learned that can help you not just survive but master your master’s.

Know Your Why

Before anything else, ask yourself why you’re pursuing this degree. Is it to deepen your expertise? Pivot your career?

Your “why” will guide you in choosing the right program and opportunities. Importantly, it will also keep you motivated through challenges.

Make sure your path reflects your goals—not just what seems like the “next step.”

Adjust Your Mindset

Grad school isn’t undergrad 2.0. Expectations are higher, and the learning is more self-directed. You’re not just absorbing knowledge anymore—you’re contributing to it.

You’ll lead discussions, apply theory, and think like a future leader in your field. Passive participation won’t cut it.

Be your own advocate, seek help when needed, and navigate uncertainty with confidence. The earlier you embrace this shift in mindset, the more empowered you’ll feel.

Schedule in Structure

Organization is everything. Grad school assignments are often long-term and not built for last-minute cramming.

Use your planner, calendar, or apps to break big projects into small tasks. Schedule time for deep focus—and for rest.

My favorite tip? A “Friday Reset”: spend fifteen minutes reviewing your week and prepping for the next. Small habits like this can keep you grounded and on track.

Build Relationships

Grad school can feel isolating, especially if your social circle shifts. I stayed an extra year at my university while friends graduated, and I felt that loneliness. But building connections in my program helped immensely.

Your peers share your goals (and your fears). Invest in those relationships.

Take Care of You

Be gentle with yourself along the way. Despite my preparation, I struggled with imposter syndrome when I started student teaching. I regained confidence by reminding myself that I’m still a student and new challenges are opportunities to learn.

You might start your program focused on one career path only to discover a new passion. That’s not failure; that’s growth.

Sustain Your Success

Pursuing a master’s is a decisive step. Whether you’re still considering it or are already enrolled, remember that you’ve already chosen growth—and that process requires sustainability.

By knowing your purpose, participating proactively, and planning your time, you can stay ahead of the overwhelm. Building relationships and taking care of yourself will make that success sustainable.

Now go out there and master your master’s!

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! 

Hello all my fellow pre-meds! If you’re applying this cycle, you know how close the applications are, and I just wanted to give some words of encouragement since I am also going through the same thing!

First things first, you must take your MCAT before June to get the most you can out of your application!

My best advice for the MCAT is do not overthink during the exam. I took a course on how to take the MCAT, and I realized that the exam is not there to trick you. Most of the questions are straightforward, and I learned that I should always go with my first pick. The more you overthink, the more likely you are to change your answer and end up getting it incorrect!

I strongly recommend taking practice exams! This is a great way to see what approach is best for you in high stress situations. On days that you do take the practice exam, make sure you set up an area that is as close as possible to the actual exam room. Plan out your meals and breaks as well! This ensures that you won’t get blindsided on test day with how fast paced and lengthy the exam is.

Okay, so you've taken your exam. What happens now?

Research various medical schools and see which ones are the best fit for you. You can go on the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) website and research different programs. Then, make sure you get your letters of recommendation. These letters are CRUCIAL for your application, since they can make or break it. Every school requires a different amount, so make sure you see how many your med school of choice wants.

Focus on your application as soon as it opens. Applications are available a month before they need to be turned in. Make sure you start early, so you don't lag then feel stressed by any deadlines. The application may take you a while to complete, but don’t feel discouraged! Take the time to perfect it and make it truly unique. Remember, you are showcasing yourself to a very competitive field, and it is easy to feel imposter syndrome when doing so. Don’t allow your self-doubt to pull you down. Believe in yourself, you got this far, right?

When you're finally done with the most stressful part, the application, relax! You've done the best you could have done up until now. Congratulate yourself, feel accomplished, you are amazing. Do not find yourself waiting around for emails regarding interviews or acceptances, live your life to its fullest. Don’t feel tied down by the burden you let go the minute you pressed submit.

To everyone applying, whether it be this cycle, or the next – good luck and congratulations!

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!