In this episode of Academic Survival, I have an enlightening conversation with Dr. Dar Mayweather, a passionate educator and leader, on the intersection of education, career goals, and inclusive leadership development. Dr. Mayweather discusses inclusive leadership for students and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and nurturing people's natural gifts and talents to prepare them for success in the industry.Listeners will discover the significance of inclusive leadership training and the transformation in students' leadership styles, as Dr. Mayweather shares his insights on creating partnerships between academic and student affairs. He offers invaluable advice on understanding the realities of companies and the benefits of networking opportunities in prestigious universities for future careers.Tune in to explore the nuances of diverse leadership styles, the dynamics of educational and career choices, and the value of aligning personal development with desired geographical locations and connections. Additionally, Dr. Mayweather introduces his upcoming book and invites listeners to engage in inclusive leadership training, highlighting the potential for financial success in this field.Whether you're a student navigating your academic journey or an aspiring leader seeking inspiration and valuable life lessons, this episode offers valuable insights into inclusive leadership and the nurturing of individual strengths for a fulfilling career and life. So, don't miss this thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Dar Mayweather on Academic Survival!

This Episode of Academic Survival features an insightful conversation with April Simpson, a reporter at the Center for Public Integrity, who shares her expertise and experience in the field of journalism. If you’re a journalism major, this episode is a must-listen for valuable tips and advice to navigate academic and professional life. In this episode, April Simpson discusses the importance of having a support system, prioritizing self-care, and the art of interviewing and understanding diverse sources. She emphasizesthe significance of investigative reporting and the impact it can have on uncovering the truth about critical issues. Listeners will also learn about "The Heist," April’s captivating 5-episode podcast that sheds lighton the discrimination faced by Black farmers. Her insights offer a unique perspective on racial equity, historical context, and the discrimination faced by Black farmers by the Department ofAgriculture. Join host Dr. Shandra L. McDonald as she engages with April Simpson in a deep dive into the world of journalism and the impactful work that drives awareness and understanding of crucial societalissues.Stay tuned as April Simpson shares her personal journey in journalism, overcoming obstacles, and finding joy in writing. As a journalism major, gain insights into the future of media, the necessity of building a personal brand, and the importance of networking to gain hands-on experience. Whether you're interested in journalism, storytelling, or simply seeking inspiration and valuable life lessons, this episode has something for you.Tune in to Academic Survival and be inspired by April Simpson's journey, expert advice, and the power of investigative reporting.

Today I am excited to have Sarah Jung on the show. Sarah is currently participating in an international exchange program from Germany to the US under the CBYX (Congress Bundestag Youth Exchange) program. She is placed in Las Vegas, attending UNLV part-time and gaining work experience in the hospitality industry. We'll be discussing her experiences, challenges, and key takeaways from her time in the US.🔖Show Notes🔖Sarah's Participation in CBYX Program:Sarah is part of the CBYX program, aimed at fostering better relations between young professionals and providing students the opportunity to gain valuable experience abroad. She is placed in Las Vegas, attending UNLV part-time and working in the hospitality industry as part of the exchange program.Cultural and Personal Experiences:Sarah shares her initial challenge of improving her English and her journey towards gaining confidence in the language over time. She reflects on the cultural differences between Germany and the US, including educational, societal, and work-related aspects. The podcast delves into Sarah's internship in Congress and her work on trade shows, offering insights into her practical experiences during the exchange program.Personal and Professional Growth:Sarah's international experience has influenced her future career decisions, opening her eyes to the field of sales and its potential to align with her skills and interests. The conversation also touches upon workplace values, the importance of enjoying the company of colleagues, and the significance of a supportive work culture.🌟Key Takeaways🌟🗣️ Improved Language Skills Sarah's experience highlights the value of immersion in a language to improve communication skills, offering a firsthand example of the benefits of engaging in an international exchange program.🌍 Cultural Awareness and Adaptability Through Sarah's experiences, listeners can understand and appreciate the significance of gaining cultural awareness, embracing diversity, and adapting to different societal norms and work environments.💼 Career Exploration and Personal Development Sarah's journey sheds light on the opportunities for personal and professional growth that can arise from international exchange programs, inspiring students to consider such experiences to broaden their horizons and discover their potential career paths.🌟Listeners can gain valuable insights from Sarah's experiences, understanding the impact of international exchange programs on language skills, cultural adaptability, and personal and professional growth. Her story serves as a source of inspiration for students considering similar opportunities.🌟

In this thought-provoking episode of Academic Survival, Dr. Kelly Dobson unveils the untold challenges and obstacles that can hinder a timely graduation from college. Join host Shandra McDonald as she delves into Dr. Dobson's personal journey, from financial dilemmas to unexpected distractions, and how they affected his academic progression. Discover the pivotal moments when Dr. Dobson had to prioritize his passions over societal expectations, and the significance of recognizing when it's time to reevaluate one's chosen path. Get ready to explore the crucial lessons learned from taking 13 years to earn a bachelor's degree, and understand how the early stages of college preparation can shape one's future success. Tune in to gain invaluable insights into navigating personal relationships, exploring career pathways, and making decisions that align with your true passions. Don't miss this eye-opening conversation that offers a fresh perspective on the academic journey and the pursuit of genuine fulfillment.

Adell Coleman and Anna DeShawn, the hosts of the Head Nod podcast, are joining me on the Academic Survival podcast to share their insights on exploring the Black experience at Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs). Adell Coleman, a seasoned professional working at DCP Entertainment, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the podcasting industry. Meanwhile, Anna Deshawn, the CEO of TheCube, has a passion for amplifying diverse voices and creating meaningful conversations. With their personal experiences as graduates from PWIs, Adell and Anna provide valuable insights and perspectives on navigating the challenges and triumphs of being Black in predominantly White spaces. Get ready to gain a fresh perspective and learn from their expertise in this episode of Academic Survival.The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:52 - The Head nod podcast 00:03:17 - Growing up experiences 00:05:25 - Transition to PWIs 00:09:06 - Hangouts and communities 00:14:35 - College Experience and Learning Styles 00:15:59 - Overwhelm and Personal Challenges 00:18:07 - Support Systems and Black Admin 00:19:23 - Feeling Overwhelmed and Finding Joy 00:24:06 - Fighting Back Against Administration 00:29:59 - Discovering Identity in College 00:32:30 - Designing Support Systems for Black Students 00:33:42 - The Importance of Good Food and Music 00:36:44 - Majors and Career Aspirations 00:39:12 - Shifting Career Paths 00:46:51 - Give Yourself Grace 00:47:54 - The Importance of Networking 00:48:47 - Stay Open to Possibilities 00:49:49 - Personal Experiences and Connecting Stay tuned for more thought-provoking, insightful content related to academic survival in upcoming episodes of the Academic Survival podcast.

Do you want to discover the key to a successful academic journey as an international student? Look no further! Join us as we unveil the secrets to navigating the challenges and finding support while studying in a different country. Andreea Coscai, an experienced international student herself, will be sharing her valuable insights and solutions to help you achieve your desired outcome - a rewarding and fulfilling academic experience abroad.In this episode, you will be able to:Discover practical tips for surviving and thriving as an international student, ensuring a successful educational journey abroad.Learn strategies for cultural adaptation and finding a supportive community, making your experience as an international student more enriching and rewarding.Uncover the challenges and rewards of studying abroad, enabling you to navigate obstacles while embracing the incredible opportunities that come with it.Explore how education abroad can foster personal development, empowering you to grow both academically and personally on your international journey.My special guest is Andreea CoscaiAndreea Coscai, a native of Bucharest, Romania, is a seasoned international student who has navigated the challenges of studying in a different country. She began her academic journey by applying for scholarships and attending an international high school in China. With a strong work ethic and a passion for foreign languages, Andreea thrived in diverse educational environments. She then went on to graduate from Bennington College, an esteemed liberal arts institution in the United States. Throughout her academic journey, Andreea gained valuable insights and experiences as an international student, which she now shares to provide guidance and support to others facing similar challenges. Her diverse background and firsthand knowledge make her a valuable resource for international students seeking advice on studying in a different country.The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction 00:02:10 - Growing up in Romania 00:05:48 - High School Experience and College Preparation 00:09:11 - College Experience at Bennington College 00:16:10 - The Impact of Studying Abroad 00:17:32 - Choosing the United States for Education 00:18:03 - Support Systems for International Students 00:20:30 - Improvements in Support for International Students 00:21:51 - Majoring in Media and Women's Leadership 00:32:28 - Flexibility and Openness of Education at Bennington College 00:32:43 - Favorite Study Locations 00:34:13 - Discovering Passion for Podcasting 00:37:40 - Pursuing Podcasting 00:40:41 - Support System for International Students 00:44:44 - Three tips to survive the 1st year of college as an internaitonal student 00:49:07 - Feeling Comfortable in LA 00:50:05 - Issues with Living in the US 00:51:36 - Impacting Lives Through Her Nonprofit 00:57:39 - Connecting with Andreea and Her Time Romania

When your dreams of a better future are tied to a college degree, the struggle to achieve that dream becomes an epic tale of courage and determination, especially if you're a 1st generation college student."So going to college, I was really excited because at first, you're just building up. Oh, you're going to go to college! But then I was also like, okay. Now I'm on my own. Now what?" "When I think of my own journey, when it comes to my mental health in college, college was a tough time.""Every problem that I had came down to a lack of preparation. I was the 1st person in my family to go to college, totally unaware of what would be required to complete college. I mean, there's pitfalls for everybody, but there's extra ones if you're a first timer."The majority of students who drop out of college do so their freshman year. Hi. I'm Doctor Shandra L. McDonald, and I know what it's like to struggle doing your 1st year of college. It wasn't until I used simple strategies to improve my grades that the journey looked promising. In fact, I went from feeling academically inferior and overwhelmed to graduating with honors. Academic Survival is a podcast about surviving your freshman year and beyond. This podcast delves deep into the experiences of college students, their fears, and the resilience that propels them forward. I interview current and former college students about their freshman year experiences, and I invite guests who share topics relevant to college life."There’s going to be external factors that are going to push against you, that are going to tell you you're not good enough, you're not smart enough, you don't have what it takes, all of that is BS.""You’ve got to have Purpose. What is my purpose? It's the driving force of everything that I hold a value." "With the NIL (or Name, Image, and Likeness), is my focus more on deals and money, or is it on staying eligible and making sure my academic success is taken care of."Join me as I discuss how to survive, thrive, and graduate.Academic Survival: The Podcast That Gets Freshmen to Graduation. College just got easier. Jump into any episode right now to get started.

I'm excited to introduce you to my guest, former NFL wide receiver Roy Hall Jr. Roy's impressive journey from a standout athlete at Ohio State to professional football with the Indianapolis Colts offers a unique lens to understanding the delicate balance of academia and sports mastery. Now, with his experiences, he sheds light for current student-athletes navigating Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities, academics, and life after sports. Roy's insights come from his first-hand experience in the field, where he's seen the highs, lows, and determined the essential elements of success.The key moments in this episode are:00:00 Student athletes need business and educational support.06:28 Athlete branding: Excellence, aligning with companies, leverage.10:22 Opportunity for athletes to excel and succeed.14:06 Striving for pro success while pursuing education.16:14 Striving for dream despite potential obstacles.20:38 Discontinued track due to lack of confidence.22:33 Finding opportunities beyond sports after an injury.26:48 Preparing for the future through present experiences.30:48 Overcoming hardship, helping others succeed despite challenges.33:33 Education program spans 5th grade to high school.35:49 Provide backpacks with school and hygiene supplies.41:06 Choosing priorities, supporting others, and seeking help.43:08 Expand nonprofit programs to new cities through partnerships.45:05 Discovering purpose, cultivating gifts, inspiring others to lead.48:41 Inspiring journey through academic survival, stay consistent.

If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed because despite putting in long hours studying and attending all your classes, you're still struggling to grasp engineering concepts and achieve the grades you desire, then you are not alone! Many college freshmen in engineering face this challenge because they may be relying solely on passive learning methods like re-reading textbooks or passively listening to lectures, which research shows to be ineffective for deep learning. Instead of seeing significant improvement, these students often experience a plateau in their understanding, hindering their academic success.In this episode, we will:Peek into the transformative influence of diversity in the engineering landscape.Adopt simple habits for enhanced learning and strategies.Understand the intricate nature of inter-disciplinary collaborations in engineering.Identify the linkages between engineering curriculum and prevailing industry needs.Spotlight the avenues guiding underprivileged students towards successful engineering careers.My special guest is MamadouBringing years of experience and a unique perspective of the world of engineering is our guest today, Mamadou Diallo. After completing his associate degree in Engineering Science and subsequently earning his Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), Mamadou emerged as an expert in his field with a unique perspective. His journey wasn't without its hurdles, but he embraced the challenges with gusto. Having navigated the academic maze as a minority, Mamadou is set to share valuable insights on developing effective learning strategies and building strong habits.The key moments in this episode are:00:00:05 - Introduction 00:00:33 - Importance of Study Groups00:02:17 - Mamadou's Engineering Journey00:05:32 - Challenges in Engineering00:09:14 - Different Types of Engineering00:17:58 - The Importance of Collaboration in Engineering00:19:36 - Advice for Freshmen in College00:22:38 - Learn How to Learn00:26:20 - Exciting Projects in Engineering00:28:30 - Building and Fulfillment00:34:40 - The Importance of Skills and Certifications00:35:00 - Increasing Diversity in the Engineering Workforce00:35:50 - Exposing Students to the Space Industry00:36:29 - Mentoring and Balancing Work00:37:07 - Overcoming Challenges in Math Education

Astrophysicist Jessica A. Harris: Inspiring and Empowering Underrepresented Students to Pursue Careers in ScienceAn empowering journey of a tenacious Black woman in STEM, as she defies barriers, advocates for diversity, and inspires underrepresented students to reach for the stars.In this episode, you will be able to:Grasp the significant impact mentorship and representation holds in the progression of STEM fields.Unearth the power of nurturing diversity and inclusivity in shaping the future of STEM.Understand the triumph of overcoming challenges as an underrepresented student in STEM.Discover the fundamental role of scholarships in opening up opportunities for STEM degrees.Be inspired by the motivational stories and journeys of underrepresented students in science.My special guest is Jessica A. Harris, an astrophysicist whose love for astronomy was born under the night skies of her childhood camping in Oregon. From there, her universe expanded as she studied at Grambling State University in Louisiana and worked her way toward a Master’s degree at Fisk University. Even though Jessica was on track to a PhD, she shifted her focus, realizing her true passion lies in guiding underrepresented students in the STEM field. Today, Jessica is more than just an astrophysicist, she's an advocate championing for the potential hidden within the hearts of aspiring scientists.🎙️ Key Takeaways:- 🌟 It's essential to seek out programs that support underrepresented students in pursuing STEM degrees, as they can provide valuable financial assistance and mentorship opportunities.- 🚀 Jessica's passion for STEM education and outreach highlights the impact of representation and mentorship, emphasizing the need for genuine allies and supportive programs.- 💡 The discussion on the James Webb Space Telescope underscores the significance of pursuing passion and exposing more students, particularly from underrepresented communities, to the wonders of astronomy and STEM fields.

In this episode of the Academic Survival Podcast, I interview Associate Professional Clinical Psychologist / School Psychologist Bria Edgar about ways to best cope with the stresses of student life. Bria emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and validating your emotions, and then taking a moment to breathe and plan your next steps. She also discusses her journey from being a school psychologist to becoming a therapist and provides advice for students interested in these fields. Bria highlights the importance of finding a therapist who is a good fit for you, and discusses the value of prioritizing self-care and finding daily routines that benefit mental health. Finally, she shares her love for psychology, sparked by a high school class, and how it has led to her fulfilling career path in mental health therapy. In this episode, you will be able to:Discover the significance of giving attention to self-care and mental wellness amidst the demanding college environment.Uncover various self-care practices that incorporate physical and mental well-being essentials.Realize the value of selecting a well-suited therapist or counselor for one's unique requirements. Bria Edgar is a passionate school psychologist and associate professional clinical counselor with a unique academic journey that led her to prioritize mental health and self-care during her college years. Having attended three different universities in various states for her undergraduate studies, Bria discovered the importance of finding the right educational environment that met her academic and personal needs. Her experience in the field of psychology and her commitment to helping others prioritize their mental well-being makes her an excellent resource for college students navigating the challenges of higher education.The resources mentioned in this episode are:Schedule a self-care day each week to prioritize your mental health.Block off time on your calendar for yourself and check in with yourself regularly to ensure you are staying on track.Find activities or practices that help you refocus, such as prayer, journaling, or meeting with friends and family.Consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor if you are struggling with mental health issues.Research and utilize resources provided by your college or university, such as counseling services or mental health workshops.

Amber Artiaga, DBA, is a strong advocate for the use of modern technology in education. She believes that the stance of these tools being inherently bad for learning and development is misguided and will only hinder students' ability to compete in the workforce of tomorrow. As an educator, Amber emphasizes the importance of preparing students for the present and future by providing them with access to the latest tools and resources. Her forward-thinking approach has helped her students achieve successful outcomes and has earned her recognition as a leader in education. On this episode of Academic Survival, I speak with Dr. Amber Artiaga about her organization's approach to student experience and the role of AI in education. Amber shares her own struggles with scheduling classes during undergrad and how her organization removes the guesswork by building schedules for students. She emphasizes the need for community and belonging in online education and how her organization provides resources to ensure that. Amber also dives into the potential of AI in education and how it can help with metacognition and distilling information while encouraging critical thinking. Additionally, she shares insights on creating a more engaging and visually dynamic experience in online education, treating students as whole people, and ensuring quality support and care for students throughout their academic journey. Tune in to learn how Amber's institution utilizes virtual orientation for online students and provides personalized support to help them acclimate to the learning environment and achieve their career goals.

Overcoming the odds, Dana Spencer was determined to provide a better future for her and her unborn child. Little did she know that her college days would take an unexpected twist, leading her to a career in direct marketing as a single mother. Despite the challenges, Dana's unwavering dedication to her goals has enabled her to graduate from college, become financially free through real estate, and inspire others to pursue their dreams no matter what life throws at them.

Student-Athlete Support System In today's competitive world, student-athletes need a solid support system to help them manage the demands of both academics and sports. A successful support system should provide the necessary resources to help student-athletes succeed academically while also allowing them to excel in their sports. These may include academic tutors, mental health professionals, and physical trainers. Additionally, a support system should cater to the unique needs of each student-athlete, recognizing their personal strengths and weaknesses. Jean Boyd and Alonzo Jones discussed the importance of a holistic support system for student-athletes at Arizona State University. They shared how proactive measures, like providing tailored assistance in time management, study skills, and well-being, can help ensure a student-athlete's success. By focusing on individual student needs, they demonstrate their commitment to not only athletic but also academic success, leading to high retention and graduation rates for these students.Balancing Multiple Roles and the Matrix of Decision Making Managing multiple roles and identities, such as a student, athlete, and socialite, can be challenging for college students. Developing a sense of situational identity and understanding the different roles one has in different contexts can be a valuable tool for maintaining balance. The challenge lies in recognizing the legitimacy of each identity and making intentional and mindful decisions that align with one's values and goals while navigating various situations. Alonzo Jones introduces the concept of situational identity during the interview and emphasizes its importance for student-athletes. Both Boyd and Jones note that understanding and navigating these various roles can lead to success beyond sports and into leadership positions in any field. By replicating behaviors that contribute to their success, discarding habits that no longer serve them, and adopting new behaviors aligned with their goals, student-athletes can find balance in their lives.Top Three Struggles for Student-Athletes The top struggles student-athletes face are: (1) balancing the demands of athletics, academics, and personal relationships; (2) the incongruency of professional aspirations and academic demands; and (3) mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. To help mitigate these challenges, it is crucial for universities to provide resources and support systems that empower student-athletes to thrive academically, athletically, and personally.Episode Summary: 🎙️ Dive into the challenging transition young student-athletes face from high school to college, navigating newfound freedoms and responsibilities.🎙️ Get ready to explore the risks and opportunities for student-athletes in the college environment, and understand the significance of balancing academic success and athletic aspirations.🎙️ Stay tuned to discover the strategic support systems and resources put in place by universities to ensure the academic success and retention of student-athletes, and walk away with a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of college athletics.Episode Resources:Visit Arizona State University's Athletics website to learn more about their athletic programs and support services for student-athletes: https://thesundevils.com/Explore Scholar Baller, a nonprofit organization co-founded by Jean Boyd, which aims to bridge the gap between education and sport:

Switching Paths: Finding Your True Passion with Musician Blake LeighMeet Blake Leigh, an accomplished pianist and jazz composer who has experienced firsthand the importance of pursuing one's passion and maintaining authenticity in the music industry. After starting his college journey at Bentley University, Blake quickly realized that his true calling was in music, leading him to transfer to the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston. As a recent graduate, Blake has been navigating the New York City music scene, working to make connections and share his talents with others. Through his unique experiences, he has learned the value of focusing on the things that genuinely bring him joy and satisfaction in his career.Learn what is worth your time... just focus on the things that truly matter and are most in line with your passions. - Blake LeighMy special guest is Blake Leigh, here's his story:From a young age, Blake Leigh discovered his love for music and embraced the art of playing the piano. As he grew older, he ventured into new territories, exploring the world of jazz composition and enrolling at Berklee College of Music. Blake's journey was not a straight path, as he initially pursued a degree in economics at Bentley University, only to realize it wasn't his true passion. This revelation set him on a new course, taking him to Berklee College of Music to immerse himself in the world of jazz composition. As Blake delved into his studies, he came to understand the importance of authenticity in his music career, choosing projects that resonated with him and avoiding those that didn't. This approach allowed him to find his niche in the music world, helping others fine-tune their scores and rehearsal processes. Despite the challenges he faced, Blake's dedication to his craft may ultimately lead him to consider Manhattan School of Music for his future studies as he continues pursuing his passion.In this episode, you will be able to: 1. Unleash your true potential by embracing passion and authenticity in your music career. 2. Maximize your chances of success at auditions through effective preparation and performance skills. 3. Achieve outstanding results in your music journey through disciplined time management and productivity habits. 4. Delve into the fascinating connection between music and mathematics that might surprise you.Pursuit of MusicFinding one's true passion in life and dedicating themselves to it is crucial in experiencing genuine happiness and success. When it comes to choosing a career path, individuals should consider their interests and values in order to make the right decision. For aspiring musicians, understanding their passion for music and dedicating their time and efforts toward it can lead to a fulfilling and prosperous career. One should not solely choose a career for its perceived safety or popularity but find their true calling that brings genuine satisfaction. Blake Leigh's journey to becoming a jazz composer/ arranger serves as an inspirational example for those pursuing their passion in music. Initially studying accounting and business at Bentley University, Blake realized these subjects did not align with what he truly desired. He then enrolled in the Berklee College of Music where he was able to pursue his passion for jazz composition. Blake's experiences emphasize the importance of staying true to one's passion and pursuing a career that is genuinely fulfilling.Key Takeaways:Apply to colleges that align with your interests and passions.Be willing to change paths if you realize your...

Dr. Shandra L. McDonald, a college graduate with a lifelong battle with reading, set out on a quest to prove her doubters wrong, but discovered her own inner strength and resilience to academically survive college and beyond. "Don't let other people's expectations hinder your journey - make your own goals and make decisions that are consistent with achieving them!" Shandra is a podcaster, guest lecturer, speaker, coach, and author.  She is passionate about helping college freshmen succeed in their academic journey and shares her story of overcoming her own struggles with reading. After successfully graduating from high school, Shandra McDonald faced a new challenge in college: the overwhelming pace and volume of work. Despite her struggles with reading, she persevered and developed strategies to survive and even excel in college. Through hard work, determination, and a challenge to herself to get straight A's, she was able to get an offer from the FAA and begin federal service through the Outstanding Scholars Program.  In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. Overcoming Academic Struggles: Follow the journey of Shandra McDonald, who struggled with reading and received a D in reading in 4th grade, but eventually earned her Doctorate degree. 2. Finding Your Passion and Setting Goals: Learn how she was able to make the decision to pursue a different career path, and discover how setting goals can help you reach success. 3. Navigating College Life: Hear from Shandra and her plans to have guests on her podcast who will share stories of challenges facing freshmen, as well as provide advice on how to stay motivated and make it through college.Resources: US Office of Personnel Management - Students and Recent GraduatesVertical Phoria Explained (not an endorsement)Ritchie Thomas (The guy who nudged me to start podcasting.)He's a great resource if you know anyone who is exiting the military.The Beached White Male PodcastHe's a great resource if you know anyone who is exiting the military. Other episodes you'll enjoy:4. Velmar Amador-Lankster: Balancing Emotions & Academics for College Success 3. Nico Morales: From Addict to Author - Substance Abuse and Transformation 2. Balancing Preferences & Priorities: Darrell Horn's College Journey Connect with me:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AcademicSurvivalPodcast Website: www.AcademicSurvival.com Website:

Velmar learns to balance work, school, and relationships as she finds strength and emotional support in college. "I told myself in college I wouldn't do that because I came out of high school with literally no close friends, because I failed to build on friendships that I could have had because I was so focused on school. And what's important to you should be your priority." Velmar Amador-Lankster is a 1st-year student at UC San Diego, double majoring in Political Science: Public Law, and Sociology, Law, and Society. She is a strong writer, and is learning to balance her academic and personal life. 19-year-old Velmar Amador-Lankster had neglected to build meaningful relationships during high school due to her heavy course load and focus on academics. At UC San Diego, she was determined to nurture those connections and find a balance between work, school and relaxation. With the support of her family, friends, and God, Velmar began to learn how to trust in herself and make decisions that would benefit her emotional well-being. Despite the challenges she had to face, Velmar found purpose in college and a newfound strength in writing. In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. How Velmar is managing the challenge of a large university, and how her high school experience prepared her for this challenge. 2. How she is balancing her academic workload with her emotional well-being and social life in college. 3. Her newfound realization that she needs to rely on herself and on God to achieve success in college. Other episodes you'll enjoy: Balancing Preferences & Priorities: Darrell Horn's College JourneyAcademic Endurance, Overcoming Challenges, and Self-Reflection with Ahmara WatsonNico Morales: From Addict to Author - Substance Abuse and Transformation Connect with me:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AcademicSurvivalPodcast Website: www.AcademicSurvival.com Website: www.ShandraLMcDonald.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: LINK Episode Summaries:[00:00:00] Nearly 30% of students drop out of college their first year. Velmar Amador-Lankster is a freshman at UC San Diego. On this episode, we'll be talking about her emotional well-being, nurturing relationships, and balance.[00:00:48] The Academic Survival podcast aims to move from academic survival to academic self-discipline. Velmar Amador-Lankster is a first-year student at UC San Diego. She talks about her first quarter of college and

Claiming sobriety from the depths of rock bottom, Nico Morales experienced the power of transformation. "I have learned to claim the term 'addict' with some positivity to it - I have acquired a better advantage and I have to be intentional about what I'm doing." - Nico Morales Nico Morales is an international published author, public speaker, small business owner, and recovering addict from Albuquerque, New Mexico. He has a bachelor's degree in Education. Nico Morales was introduced to substances at the age of 10 and began using when he was 14 years. His relationships with his family deteriorated, and on his 27th birthday, he found himself alone and without anyone to turn to. He had hit rock bottom. But that was the beginning of his journey to recovery. In this episode, you will learn the following:  1. How Nico Morales began using substances at age 14 and the long-term implications of his decisions.  2. The damaging effect of substance use on Nico's relationships with family and friends.  3. The consequences of being diagnosed with an addiction, including the difficulties of being referred for help. Resources: Nico's Website: https://www.nohalonm.com/5 Things to Know Before You Get Sober - Amazon LinkNico's Social Media:Nico's IG Nico's YouTube Nico's LinedIn  Other episodes you'll enjoy:Balancing Preferences & Priorities: Darrell Horn's College JourneyAcademic Endurance, Overcoming Challenges, and Self Reflection with Ahmara WatsonConnect with me:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AcademicSurvivalPodcast Website: www.AcademicSurvival.com Website: www.ShandraLMcDonald.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: LINK Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: {LINK}  Chapter...

Thank you for joining the Academic Survival podcast. Today, we're excited to have Darrell Horn on the show. Darrell shares his college journey, discussing the challenges of balancing personal preferences and academic priorities.**Key Takeaways from Darrell's College Journey:**- 🎓 **Embrace Mistakes:** As freshmen, making mistakes is inevitable, and that's okay. It's crucial to understand that failure is a part of the learning process. What truly matters is how you bounce back from those mistakes and grow from them.- 🌟 **Purpose-Driven Decisions:** Having a clear sense of purpose is instrumental in shaping one's ambitions, career, and values. High school seniors are advised to appreciate the present moment, while also keeping their long-term objectives in mind, beyond their academic pursuits.- 🛠️ **Balancing Priorities:** Darrell emphasizes the challenge of balancing academic responsibilities, personal goals, and social interactions. It's vital to manage time effectively, acknowledge personal strengths and weaknesses, and navigate between different areas of life as a college student.**Show Notes:**- Freshmen struggles and overcoming mistakes- The importance of persistence and determination- Advice for seniors: appreciation of the present and consideration of future prospects- The driving force of purpose in one's ambitions and career- Balancing academic, personal, and social aspects of college life- Time management and navigating different academic subjects- Roommate dynamics and the influence of compatibility algorithmsDarrell's insights shed light on the challenges and triumphs of a college journey, providing valuable guidance for students navigating their academic paths.When Darrell Horn, an ambitious 17-year-old freshman at Cal State Northridge, sets out on his college journey, he quickly discovers an unexpected dilemma: the challenge of managing his newfound freedom."I learned the only way to get around procrastination is if you just do it right away rather than just sit on it and let it stew for a couple of days." - Darrell Horn Darrell Horn is an entertainer, majoring in Cinema and Television Arts, with a focus on screenwriting.  He's passionate about learning, he's overcoming procrastination, and he's mastering the art of balancing preferences and priorities. He has discovered that balancing his three priorities of being a student, pursuing his ambitious goals, and having a personal life is tricky but necessary. He has also learned that he is good at communicating and convincing others. On his first night of college, he got locked out of his dorm room, which was quite the reality check.Other episodes you'll enjoy:Episode 1. Academic Endurance, Overcoming Challenges, and Self-Reflection with Ahmara WatsonConnect with me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shandramcdonald/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AcademicSurvivalPodcast Website: www.AcademicSurvival.com Website: www.ShandraLMcDonald.com Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating here:

Academic Survival PodcastStruggling to balance a double major, a job, and extracurriculars, Ahmara Watson discovers her strength is endurance as she navigates her way through the overwhelming expectations of college life."Knowing what you can get out of it helps push you through. I think that being able to overwork myself and power through, even when I'm tired or overwhelmed, has been a strength that I've discovered in college."Ahmara Watson is a 2nd-year student at San Diego State University (SDSU) double majoring in Criminal Justice and Psychology. She works part-time at the police department and is involved in the Criminal Justice Association and Young Life clubs. She was surprised to learn that she was capable of double majoring, and is thankful for her father's veteran's benefits that cover her tuition for 4 years. She has discovered her strength in endurance, but struggles with test taking, especially multiple choice. College has taught her to push herself, and to not be afraid to take on challenges.In this episode, you will learn about Ahmara’s: 1. Academic Endeavors: How does she navigate a full workload, double majoring, and a job? 2. Social Transition to College: What was it like going from COVID lockdowns to a 24/7 social life? 3. Strengths and Weaknesses: How does she take advantage of her strengths and how has she compensated for her test-taking weakness?Connect with me:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AcademicSurvivalPodcast Website: www.AcademicSurvival.com Website: www.ShandraLMcDonald.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: LINKSummaries:[00:00:00]Statistics show that approximately 40% of students drop out of college every year. Nearly 30% drop out their first year. Ahmara Watson is a second year student at San Diego State. We'll be talking about her study locations, her academic endurance, and hey, even a possible internship.[00:00:56]Ahmara Watson is a second year student at San Diego State University. She is double majoring in Criminal Justice and Psychology. Watson is also involved in the Young Life club. She describes college as an introduction to adulting.[00:04:52]Student: My goal is to graduate in 3 years instead of 4 years with my double major. Is that something that you would recommend for students, high school students to take some AP classes if they can or no?[00:06:13]In college, there's so much...