Find the college housing of your dreams! Freshman year can go by in a flash, and before you know it, everyone is moving out of the dorms. Most universities offer housing options for sophomores, juniors, and seniors and many students opt to continue living in university-housing for the convenience of location and meal plans. Some, though, are ready for a change. Living off-campus can have a number of advantages. Many students find that they love to cook and prefer having their own kitchen. It’s also nice to escape the coin-laundry rooms and have a space that really feels like yours. Living off-campus can come with access to different coffee shops and local stores, as well as providing new places for you to familiarize yourself with. If you haven’t looked into the tedious process of finding off-campus housing, it can be an overwhelming experience. Don’t get discouraged. When it comes to your living situation, there’s a multitude of things you should consider to help save yourself from stress. Finding people to live with Finding roommates can be one of the toughest parts of living off-campus, so it’s important to start thinking about this early. The first thing you should decide is if you want a roommate at all. If you decide the best choice is to live on your own, then the process becomes a little less complex, and you can start looking for housing earlier! If you do want roommates, though, it’s good to know what you're looking for. You’ll meet a lot of people when you first start college, but you might not feel like you have a lot of solid friendships yet. Try to consider what it would actually be like to live with someone, and don’t feel obligated to move in with your friends if you think it won’t be a good fit. When I first started looking for people to live with, I considered everyone—friends, girls from my hall, the people I sat near in class, and other students from my extracurricular activities. It’s important to explore your opportunities and consider who would best contribute to the living environment you want to create. Do you like plants and open spaces? Are you clean,= or okay with a little mess? How loud do you like your music? If you’re having trouble finding people to live with, ask around and find out what other students are doing. They could be looking for people to live with, too, or maybe they need one more person to fill a bedroom in their future apartment. Remember that you’re not the only person experiencing the stress of off-campus housing, and don’t rush the process! Location hunting Location can greatly affect your living situation, so give this one a lot of thought, too. Talk to your future roommates about the type of apartment or house you want to live in. Do you prefer the busy or the quiet side of town? Is there a specific location that’s a better fit for your classes, or closer to the grocery store? Maybe your housemate spends a lot of time at the rec-center and wants to be in that area. It’s important to communicate and compromise. During my junior year, I lived two blocks away from the farmer’s market. I didn’t know there was a farmer’s market when I moved, but it dramatically changed the way I dieted and ultimately improved my health. I spent more time outside, and my grades improved as a result of a healthier lifestyle. Now, I consider everything about a location. Nearby parks, community events, and even street traffic. A multitude of online resources exist for off-campus housing, and a quick Google search can take you in a variety of directions. Start by searching for a specific landlord and housing companies around your campus. This way, you can find out what kind of people you’ll be renting from before you sign anything, and you’ll have direct access to the locations that are being listed for rent on their websites. Signing a lease The long-winded process is over, and now it’s time to sign your lease. Read it all the way through, then send it to your parents and have them take a look. If you don’t understand something, don’t be afraid to ask. Leases contain a lot of technical terms, so it’s important that you can distinguish between them and know exactly what you’re agreeing to. Make sure you have all the details figured out. Is the leasing company handling the Wi-Fi and utilities, or should one of the tenants take responsibility for those accounts? How does the trash and sidewalk maintenance work? Make sure there’s a reliable maintenance service for emergency-situations like power-outages or broken pipes. If you’re going somewhere for the summer, ask about subletting and how your leasing company handles that. A lot of first-time tenants need a parent to co-sign a lease for them, so definitely keep your parents or guardians in the loop as you take every step in the search for off-campus housing. They can help you prevent bad living-situations and find something that’s safe and affordable. Talking to your landlord There’s an age-old story about a landlord who takes advantage of a naïve student-renter. This isn’t always the case, but it’s important to form a trusting relationship and maintain clear communication with your landlord. Know who you’re talking to and ask around before signing with a company you don’t know well. Other students have definitely worked with these leasing companies, and most students are more than willing to share their experiences. If you’re having an ongoing problem with your landlord, or you feel that something is unfair, don’t be afraid to speak up. When I was a sophomore in college, the heating in our house was broken but our landlord insisted that we were wrong despite the freezing temperatures. That’s when I learned that it’s okay to get your parents involved, even if you’re not living at home. Sometimes landlords respond differently to adults with jobs than they do to students. Our heating was fixed the next day. There are basic city ordinances and landlord-related laws that every student-renter should learn. It’s important to know your rights, so research the local laws. Many universities have student legal services that can help you out in tough situations or when you think your landlord is taking advantage of you. Overall, it’s important to pay attention to the landlords and leasing companies you’re getting involved with. Finding off-campus housing is only as stressful as you let it become. If you prepare yourself and get informed, you’ll be much more equipped to handle the responsibilities that come with living off-campus. Look for any resources that can help and talk to people who are more experienced than you may be. Above all, do your research and be honest with yourself about the living environment you want to create. WRITTEN BY Sydney Bagnall University of Michigan Sydney graduated in May 2019 with a major in English Literature and a minor in Graphic design. She has a knack for all things creative. Originally from Pennsylvania, she enjoys biking on rolling hills and never misses an opportunity to stop and observe the sky. If you don’t find her vigorously typing, you can find her outside. ... View more

Choosing a field of study doesn't have to be scary!   Picking a major is vastly different for every college student. Some students arrive at college and already have an idea of what they want to study. Alternatively, other students arrive and have no idea what they want to study. No matter where you fall on this spectrum, it is OK. Major selection is one of the most difficult decisions in college and every school has a unique process. At some schools, incoming freshmen declare their major upfront whereas at other schools students wait until their sophomore year to declare their major. No matter which way your school sets up the process to decide your major, you’ll need to make this decision at some point in your college career. Here are some strategies that may help you. Be true to yourself One of the most important parts of this process is self-reflection. Students must reflect on both their current studies as well as where they want those studies to take them after they graduate. When selecting a major, it is crucial to think about your strengths and weaknesses and how those factors contribute to who you are as a student. That being said, if you know your academic interests do not align with your career interests, that is fine. The courses you choose do not determine your career path! Engineering, for example, is one of the few careers that it is crucial to major in as it teaches you concrete skills in order to prepare you for that career. However, many careers are different from engineering in the sense that you do not need to learn a trade to do it; rather, you need to cultivate and develop sets of skills that inherently exist in everyone. Drown out the noise Parents, teachers, and friends will tell you what you should do and which major is best suited to your interests. I would urge you to listen to what those people have to say, but make sure you follow your own passions. This is your journey; you should shape it yourself in order to take full agency over the process. Focus on what you want to learn not what you think will make you money This is a very common misconception among college students. People sometimes focus on the dollars they envision at the end of the process, rather than enjoying the process intrinsically. This can impact your success as a student; you may be less engaged or less interested in what you are learning in the classroom. This can have an opposite effect than the one initially intended. The less successful you are in school, the harder it will be to find something to do after -- and you don’t want to commit to a career that you might not enjoy! All in all, the major selection is a process that calls for careful thought as life becomes far more difficult if you are doing something you do not enjoy. Most importantly, it is perfectly fine to know what you are interested in studying, but not know what you want to do for a career. College is not just memorizing and regurgitating historical facts and math equations. Every semester that you complete will give you foresight into the future about what you may want to do; therefore, do not worry if you don’t know exactly what career path you want to take because chances are it will become clear as time passes! WRITTEN BY Noah Skelskie Emory University My name is Noah Skelskie and I am an intern in the Macmillan marketing department. I am a rising junior at Emory University and was born and raised in New York City. I enjoy watching any and all sports but most of all, my New York Mets (unfortunately). ... View more

Work smarter, not longer. It’s your first salaried job. You’re excited, eager to meet your coworkers, and can’t wait to get started with the assignments lined up for you on your very first day. You want to impress your boss and go above and beyond, but how much is too much? When do you cross the line between being a fantastic and reliable employee to overworking yourself? Here are a few ways that you can spot the difference and work in a way that benefits both your new position and your mental and physical well-being. Take a Look at Your Timesheet If your job requires that you keep a timesheet, use it to your advantage. By keeping a close eye on your hours for that week, you’ll be able to know exactly where you’re at in terms of progress and outstanding work. If the end of the week is approaching and you still feel like you’ve got a lot more to do, take a look at your hours. Are you approaching the overtime mark? If so, you may be taking on more than you can handle. Communicate with your manager if you’re feeling overwhelmed and work together to determine how much work you’re able to handle within a given time period. If you’re not required to keep a timesheet, keep a manual record. It will give you a better understanding of your own capabilities when it comes time to tell your boss that you need to slow down. Avoid the Email Trap We’ve all been there. It’s the weekend, and while you should be enjoying your time off, you get that all too familiar email notification. While it may be hard to resist, don’t check your work email while you’re not in the office or on the clock. Disable notifications on the account after you leave for the day. If your job allows it, even consider not having the account linked to your personal devices at all. You may feel anxious at first, always feeling the pressure to answer a message as soon as you receive it, but with time you’ll enjoy the comfort of achieving a balance between your work life and your personal life. Trust me, you deserve it! Eat Lunch Away from Your Desk Your lunch break -- the one hour out of the day designated for you to sit back away from the hustle and bustle of the office and enjoy a meal. Remember that this time is meant for you and if you’re not being compensated for overtime, you shouldn’t be working. To avoid the urge to answer the phone or check your email, take your lunch to your breakroom, common area, or even outside if the weather permits. Give your mind and body a break from the strain of the computer and desk. Want more tips on how to navigate the adult world? Check back here at College Quest! WRITTEN BY Samantha Storms Hofstra University Despite her last name, this senior journalism and publishing student doesn't have dreams of becoming a weather forecaster upon graduation from Hofstra University. She is currently exploring her love of language as a Media Editorial Intern for the psychology team at Macmillan Learning. A true Pittsburgher through and through, Samantha enjoys knitting, listening to eighties pop, and searching for the best pho spots. ... View more

How do you choose your classes? For all those indecisive intellectual magpies out there, this article provides some tips for choosing the elective course that will brighten your day without overburdening your semester. Try Something New It’s one of the oldest tricks in the book, but it’s sometimes surprisingly hard to follow. If you can overcome the fear of crossing academic lines, you’ll likely find that cross-disciplinary study holds numerous benefits, as it can open your mind to practices that might later impact your area(s) of study. For example, I took a popular course on child development and media in my sophomore year and ended up using one of the theorists from that course in my English senior thesis two years later. You never know what will prove beneficial in the future. Choose by Professor, not Subject This was one of my favorite pieces of advice I got when entering college. As counterintuitive as it may sound, sometimes it’s more worthwhile to choose a course by its professor than by its subject matter. Professors can be the difference between months of half-hearted work or a semester of rich exploration. Ask your upperclassmen friends or check sites like ratemyprofessors.com before choosing a course with a professor whose teaching style you may not enjoy. You can always get the textbook or read up on the subject later if you are still interested! Class Size = Class Vibes It’s fairly self-explanatory, but you can often judge a class by its class size. Larger lectures tend to cover lots of material with less chance for personalized learning, while smaller courses generally review less material more thoroughly with more chance for discussion with peers and professors. Choose the course with the best learning environment for you. Weigh the Relative Gains While that class on video game programming might seem cool, if you already have a busy semester, choosing an elective course that entails lots of course work or long hours may not be the best idea for your overall academic and mental health. Even though intellectual curiosity is a great gift, sometimes you need to weigh the relative gains of learning a new skill against the relative costs of coursework and class time, exams, etc. If you are really struggling to keep up after the first couple of weeks, there’s no shame in dropping a course! You can almost always retake it another time when your workload is lighter or during the summer. Buy Yourself More Time If you really (really) can’t decide between two courses, sign up for both! It’s far easier to drop a course after the first couple of weeks than it is to pick up an extra course later. You never really know until you step into a classroom whether that course you’ve been panting after all semester will be plain terrific or terrifically plain. Hopefully, these suggestions will help you feel more confident and empowered the next time course selection rolls around! Visit College Quest to discover other useful tips on handling the wonders and woes of college life. WRITTEN BY Emma Hodgdon Tufts University Emma is a recent grad from Tufts University with a BA in English who loves playing the cello and reading all things Gothic. She spends her free time experimenting with calligraphy, learning to speak Chinese beyond the names of dim sum dishes, and desperately trying not to kill her poor succulents, Verotchka and Geraldine. ... View more

Professors are people too.  Professors are human beings with thoughts and emotions just like you and I. Students can give themselves a huge advantage if they have strong professional relationships with their professors. There are many ways to do this, but here are my five fail-safe methods to win over the hearts and minds of your professors. Go to office hours. Office hours are a forum that exists for students to meet with professors and ask any and all of their questions. It is important to go to office hours early in the semester to introduce yourself to the professor so they can put a name to the face, especially in larger classes. Office hours allow students and professors to develop relationships that go beyond the typical roles in the classroom. Students who go to office hours can get the opportunity to receive academic advising, mentorship, and obviously help with their class. Ask questions and participate in class. Even if a professor’s lecturing makes you want to pull your hair out, it is crucial to answer the professor’s questions and ask those of your own. Although it may seem futile in bigger classes, participation is incredibly important in showing the professor that you are engaged in the class and taking it seriously. Put your technology away! Having spoken to many professors about this topic, it seems widely accepted that technology is the biggest distraction students face in the classroom today. Whether it is your iPhone or your laptop, it is crucial not to let your devices take away from your academic success. Don't miss class. In larger classes, especially those that do not take attendance, it is counterproductive to miss class even if you are able to stay up on the work. The experiences and insights you gain when going to class are unparalleled and can not be replicated by simply doing the readings and homework. Even if you are able to do well in the class without going, professors oftentimes notice the absence of students whether it is occasional or consistent across an entire semester. Ask what they are teaching next semester. Professors have dedicated their lives to the subjects that they teach and often times are pleased when a student expresses interest in their work. Therefore, before it is time for course registration, it is a good idea to reach out to your professors about what courses they are teaching in the coming semester. This demonstrates to the professor that you enjoy their teaching style and class. WRITTEN BY Noah Skelskie Emory University My name is Noah Skelskie and I am an intern in the Macmillan Marketing Department. I am a rising junior at Emory University and was born and raised in New York City. I enjoy watching any and all sports but most of all, my New York Mets (unfortunately). ... View more

Real college students share their real experiences. Kansas may be nestled in the heartland of the United States. However, over 28,000 current and countless past Jayhawks with unique and diverse identities have made the University of Kansas their home away from home. With a short walk down Jayhawk Boulevard, you will meet someone from every corner of the world. In this video, we chatted with seven of my favorite humans at KU. From international students, to student leaders, and even townies; every Jayhawk has a unique story they are happy to share with you! WRITTEN BY Katherine McGaughey University of Kansas Katie is a senior who is double-majoring in exercise science and psychology at the University of Kansas. Originally from Wichita, she loves exploring new cities and has traveled to eight of the top twenty most influential cities in the world so far. She loves cooking and finding the best vegan eats. You can usually find her in planning her next adventure, enjoying a concert with friends, or late-night studying at the library. ... View more

All work and no play makes for a dull day! Between the constant flow of incoming homework and looming presence of whatever test I have next, I will admit that it sometimes feels like the best way to go about college is locking myself up in a study room and coming back out once my degree is complete. As an engineering major, I definitely prioritize academics; however, I have also come to realize that there is so much more to the “college experience” that lies beyond equations and essays. As a college student who seriously values a balanced lifestyle, here are my top three tips to ensure your university experience is a well-rounded one. Get Involved in More than One Way Between constantly going to class, studying, and meeting with professors for office hours, it’s easy to forget that a balanced education exceeds the world of academia. Some of the best advice I received as a freshman was to get involved on campus in two ways: find one organization that appeals to your academic interests and one that feeds a side passion. For me, this has meant getting involved in research surrounding my major, as well as a service organization that welcomes students from all corners of my university. This has allowed me to stay involved in the engineering community and explore my future career, while also getting the chance to meet fellow students I may not have initially crossed paths with and expand my social circle beyond my fellow math and science nerds. Learn outside of the classroom College campuses have so many opportunities to learn and I quickly realized that it doesn’t stop when I leave class for the day. I still remember walking around campus during my first week as a freshman and being stunned by how many different opportunities there were. College presents so many prospects that you may not get to experience otherwise such as studying abroad, community service, and opportunities to meet people from a variety of different backgrounds (just to name a few!). This past January I had the chance to travel to Ghana via an organization on campus and it was by far one of the coolest things I’ve done. This was definitely something I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to pursue outside of my school and it taught me more than I ever could’ve imagined. Mix it up Going to school in the lively city of Austin, I can still be guilty of falling into the same old routine every week throughout the school year. And while the structure is great, I challenge you to find ways to switch up your everyday routine and try something new! This can be as simple as choosing to check out a new downtown coffee shop, or blocking out some time in your schedule to explore any events that are happening on campus. This is not only a great way to experience something new, but it also works as a great study break or weekend adventure. As stressful as it can sometimes be, being a student comes with so many unique opportunities that are definitely worth taking advantage of. Working towards a well-rounded college experience has allowed me to meet a wide range of people and experience things I never knew were possible. Whether it be something large or small, any step towards a balanced college lifestyle will be well worth it. WRITTEN BY Sonya Pfitzenmaier University of Texas Sonya is a current sophomore at the University of Texas studying chemical engineering. She is best known for starting spontaneous dance parties in her apartment and unconditionally cheering on the Texas longhorns. Outside of school, Sonya enjoys scouring the internet for new recipes to try and exploring the city of Austin, one hike at a time. ... View more

There's no such thing as "the quintessential college experience." With all the generic portrayals of college in the media, it may sometimes seem that the only way to experience the “Best Four Years of Your Life” is by living on-campus. Luckily, you can be a commuter and still make the most of the years spent earning your degree! Here are a few tips I found quite helpful, especially when I was just starting out: Join a club Ever feel like this is the only thing you hear from college grads trying to bestow their wisdom on you? Well, it’s probably because it’s the best and quickest advice you can give that could potentially change the trajectory of a student’s college career. Once you find the one (or several) organization that fits, you’ll be introduced to a network of other fun and ambitious students like you looking to make the most of their four years at school. Finding your crew is the easiest way to find friends who are always willing to hunt down free food, get the inside scoop on events (while perhaps planning a few of your own), and who can help you grow your experience with leadership positions. Not to mention, most clubs have their own offices, so now you’ll have a place to keep some of your things you don’t want to keep lugging around campus all day! Visit your school’s Club Fair or Office of Student Life to get a list of active clubs. Get an on-campus job Being a student can get tough, but luckily your school has your back. Whether or not you have Federal Work-Study, you can search for a job and earn some extra money without ever needing to leave campus, all while benefiting from the additional perks they come with as well. Working on campus can make it easier for you to meet with professors and academic advisers without the need for an appointment (and standing on a crazy line), give you extra knowledge of on-campus resources, or simply provide the opportunity to work with other students! Some campuses may also offer jobs specifically for international students. The first step to building your resume is learning your options; check out your Office of Leadership Development or Career Services to start your job hunt. Explore your whole campus One of the most solid pieces of advice I give to students, especially first-years, is to spend some time exploring every inch of campus. In most cases, you can find study areas you never knew about, whether more comfy, quiet, or private. Some schools can house special rooms that are hidden on random floors, like photography dark rooms or piano areas. Discovering your campus could also lead you to new opponents to challenge in the game room, or just new places to relax. Awaken your inner explorer and get to know your new second home. Redesign your schedule Most likely your schedule was chosen for you your first semester, but after that, you’ll have complete control over what classes you take and when you’re on campus. Surely there are some limits to this with course requirements for graduation (make sure to meet with your adviser!), but there’s still freedom to customize your schedule. In most cases, colleges have set scheduling practices, such as having classes meet Mondays & Wednesdays or Tuesdays & Thursdays. This means you could potentially only have to commute to school twice a week! By doing so, you’ll be able to better balance other responsibilities like a job or your assignments. You can even think about taking hybrid or online courses, which meet even less, such as once a week or a couple of times a semester. Still, remember to schedule classes on the days most events are held on -- you don’t want to miss out on all the fun on campus! Being a commuter student can be difficult and draining, especially at times when you feel like you actually DO live on campus with the hours you spend at school. However, these are still your college years -- take advantage of everything your campus has to offer and make the most of “the best years of your life.” The experience you have is totally up to you! WRITTEN BY Emilia Kacperak Baruch College Emilia is a senior at Baruch College studying marketing management and minoring in philosophy. She spends as much time on-campus as she can, usually planning for the yearbook or hunting down the next free giveaway. ... View more

It's not always "sink or swim!" So, not to be that person, but college has pretty much been the best part of my life. However, it’s not for the reasons you might think. Within my first year, I got dumped, rejected from my dream school where I applied as a transfer, and had a complete crisis concerning my future. And I was supposed to deal with this while figuring out bus routes, frat parties, and shared bathrooms? Yeah, no thanks. I don’t think this whole autonomy thing is for me after all. At least, that’s how I felt at first. I think we’re all faced with a choice when we’re thrown into adulthood: sink or swim. At first, it feels easier to sink. I was stuck miles away from the only home I had ever known and struggling through things that I’d never had to deal with on my own. It was so tempting to let go, to settle comfortably into resignation. But that was until I realized that the solitude wasn’t suffocating. It was freeing. I wasn’t helpless without those things I had always depended on; in fact, I was more in control than I had ever been before. Away from the influences, I had known all my life, those of teachers, parents, and friends, I was finally able to ask myself what I wanted. And what I wanted, I realized, looked a lot different than what I was doing. So, I changed my major, pretty dramatically. I changed my goals, I made a plan, and I stopped pursuing things that I didn’t love. In other words, I started to swim. And this wasn’t easy-- it takes some guts to really listen to yourself. You realize that you can be the cause of your wildest successes, but also be held accountable for your failures. So, you can continue to fear responsibility, as I did at first, or you can embrace it. And the latter option, I have found, is enlightening, empowering, and above all, has made me happy. When you choose to take control of your life, choosing happiness comes intuitively. Now, I know that all sounds a bit lofty, but I promise you, it’s simpler than you think. The transition to college naturally introduces a degree of independence that you may not have gotten the chance to experiment with before. It comes with a lot of crappy stuff -- lots of worrying about rent and careers and scholarships -- but it comes with a lot of the good stuff I’ve talked about too if you open yourself up to it. And the other stuff, the devastating, stressful stuff -- it didn't become background noise. It was still devastating. But, I could see the other side. And with my new perspective, I realized that I had the power to make that other side better than this one ever had been. Now, I’m not super equipped to be providing self-help. I’m still figuring this out day by day. But it’s amazing how much a change in my outlook has helped me move forward, even when countless other things are dragging me back. So take some time to listen to yourself, undiluted by outside opinions. Figure out what you want. And choose it, every time. WRITTEN BY Izzy Taylor Michigan State University Izzy is a sophomore at Michigan State University studying philosophy and political science. As you can tell, she has a passion for those disciplines guaranteed to make prospective employers toss out her resume immediately. She somehow snagged a Student Ambassador gig at Macmillan Learning anyway. She is an avid consumer of vintage clothing and 80's music and has never met a cat she didn't love. ... View more

It's just a hop, skip, and a jump to finding your people. There’s a lot to consider when committing (or transferring) to a new university. Location, rank, and major offerings are all important but a school’s social atmosphere can also play a big role in your decision. Schools nestled in college towns encompassing cultures of weekend tailgates and diverse club events are easily appealing while smaller, modest commuter campuses often draw more skepticism than they do allure. How can commuter schools possibly hope to compete with those huge and lively campuses? On paper, they can’t. However, that doesn’t mean it’s any less possible to make friends and create fun memories there. No matter where you end up studying, here are some surefire ways to break into your university’s social sphere! Talk to your classmates No matter the class size or subject, it’s always possible to find someone to study with or simply relate to about the all-nighter you just pulled to finish the latest assignment. While it may seem difficult to take the first step and introduce yourself, you’d be surprised to discover how many other students are just as eager to make new friends; all it takes is turning around and saying “hey!” Take classes that relate to your interests It’s impossible to get to know everyone in a large lecture hall. But, over time, as I’ve enrolled in more courses that were tailored to my major or other interests, I’ve noticed that my class sizes have shrunken significantly. Moreover, I’ve also found that many of the other students in those classes were just as passionate about the course material as I was, which made talking with them so much easier. Whether it’s a major requirement or an extracurricular, I would definitely recommend enrolling in a course that relates to your interests during your time in college; not only is it a good way to sharpen your skills or practice your hobbies, it’s also an excellent way to find students who share your interests. Join clubs Though clubs generally have professional, academic, cultural, or philanthropic purposes, they also serve as major social hubs bringing students across disciplines together. It’s never too late to explore your university’s club options; whether you catch a general interest meeting or wander into a weekly meeting, joining a club can bring so much color to your campus life. Spend time on campus outside of class The easiest mistake commuter students can make is only staying on campus for the duration of their classes. I did this the first semester after I transferred to my commuter school but soon discovered that the more I lingered on campus, the harder it was for me to leave it. Just by being there, I was able to hear about so many new and upcoming opportunities or, more often than not, bump into classmates and grab lunch or study together. Keep up with campus news Even if you make the effort to speak to your classmates or explore your college’s extracurricular offerings, it’s impossible to truly be aware of everything that’s happening there. But, reading your school’s newspaper and the student bulletins peppered throughout the halls lets you catch up on anything you might have missed out on seeing. Starting fresh in a new school can be daunting but no matter the type of campus you attend, commuter or residential, it’s not impossible to find yourself and make new connections there. When it comes to it, there is no such thing as a true “social” or “antisocial” campus; friends can be found anywhere.                                                              WRITTEN BY Addie Joseph Baruch College in Manhattan After earning her ears at Disney, Addie moved on to study Journalism, Creative Writing, and Photography at Baruch College in Manhattan. She is interning for Macmillan Learning as a Student Ambassador, but in her spare time, you can find her tucked away in a café, crafting stories or editing photos and videos, with earbuds fixed firmly in her ears. Don’t be afraid to interrupt and say hello; she always enjoys meeting new friends (and perhaps indulging them with music recommendations too)! ... View more

Sometimes college can feel like the circus...   When I first started college, I found myself overwhelmed with how to use my time. I knew I should be doing more homework and studying, but there were always interesting events and club meetings I wanted to attend. I found myself struggling to find time for school, sleep, and a social life. I searched for and implemented several techniques that helped me juggle the busy world of college. Prioritize clubs. Find out how to get involved in university clubs and organizations that pique your interest. There’s a range of activities you can participate in from working on digital teams and publications, playing sports, or getting involved with activism. Participating in the things I felt passionate about helped me find friends with similar interests, which provided the perfect combination of school spirit and socializing. Take a break. It’s important to find friends who have similar interests and who can help you express those interests. However, it’s also important to take a break from your work and your friends. Relaxing is a key ingredient in the recipe for a busy schedule. I found that it helped to turn my mind off sometimes and focus on something simpler, something that didn’t demand a constant flow of energy. I found a quiet space out by a creek and I went there to doodle or write in my journal because that internal peace was necessary to keep up with a college schedule. Plan, plan, plan. Whether you prefer Google calendar, a leather planner, or a book of to-do lists, it’s vital to plan ahead. To successfully juggle school and social life, you have to really know your schedule. During my busiest semester, there was a time where I was penciling friends into my calendar because Thursday from 7 PM to 8:30 PM was truly the only time I had to chat. Keeping a calendar can prevent sticky situations. If someone wants to plan something, you’re already prepared and won’t end up scheduling a coffee catch-up during your chemistry midterm. Learn to multitask. Multitasking was one of the most helpful techniques for juggling schoolwork and a social life. Simple things like mailing a letter on my way to class or applying for a job in the doctor’s waiting room saved me little bits of time that I could use to catch up with my friends, the news, or club events. If my friends were busy, I read while eating dinner. If I wasn’t taking a break, and my hands could be doing more than one thing, they always were. Juggling between coursework and friends can be a tricky endeavor filled with decision-making. Juggling your responsibilities is all about prioritizing what needs to get done first and then completing it. It’s important to remember, however, that no time is wasted time and it’s necessary to catch up with friends the same way it’s necessary to study. Social knowledge carries as much value as school knowledge. So, while it may be difficult, finding that balance is integral to your mental well-being and all-around college experience. WRITTEN BY Sydney Bagnall University of Michigan Sydney graduated in May 2019 with a major in English Literature and a minor in Graphic design. She has a knack for all things creative. Originally from Pennsylvania, she enjoys biking on rolling hills and never misses an opportunity to stop and observe the sky. If you don’t find her vigorously typing, you can find her outside. ... View more

Stay organized and on task straight from your cell phone! If you’re like most college students (including me), you hate group projects. After all, what’s there to like? With incompatible schedules, lazy partners, and miscommunications, every end-of-the-semester project can feel like a nightmare. But in this world of technology, there are a thousand ways to stay connected and be proactive in your group work despite the issues that come with dividing the work amongst a group of busy students. To help you get through it, here three practical ways technology can help you get the grade you want on your next group project. Keep in Touch with a Reliable Messaging Service It’s happened time and time again -- one member of the group has an Android phone and the rest use iPhones, making text messaging clunky and unreliable. To stay on top of your group members, use an app like “GroupMe” to iron out the details of your project without having to communicate face-to-face and waste valuable time. By messaging through these apps, you’ll have a more solid record of your communication, reducing the chances of a message failing to send through the SMS method. If you have an announcement that all members of your group should know about, ask them to “like” the message to let you know they’ve seen it. Stay In-Sync with a Collaborative Work Space If your group project requires you to type a significant amount of information, you’ll want to keep your workflow consistent. Know exactly which group member is working on a specific section of the copy by using a collaborative word processor such as Google Docs. You can make comments on one another’s work, suggest changes, and even chat via messenger -- all through one program. Avoid the confusion of multiple documents and eliminate the compatibility and formatting issues that arise across different programs. Stay Organized with a Single File Destination Have a multimedia presentation to prepare? Organization is key with every project, but it’s especially important when you’re dealing with multiple files. In order to keep the confusion to a minimum, use a storage program such as DropBox or Google Drive to keep all of your files in one place that is shared and accessible to all members of your group. To take your organization to the next level, take the time to divide your files into subfolders, and even subfolders of subfolders. Avoid the clutter and label! WRITTEN BY Samantha Storms Hofstra University Despite her last name, this senior journalism and publishing student doesn't have dreams of becoming a weather forecaster upon graduation from Hofstra University. She is currently exploring her love of language as a Media Editorial Intern for the psychology team at Macmillan Learning. A true Pittsburgher through and through, Samantha enjoys knitting, listening to eighties pop, and searching for the best pho spots. ... View more

Save smart! College parties and events can be fun, but let’s discuss the elephant in the room -- how to pay for it. Budgeting and saving money can definitely help alleviate the cost of a college education, but in most cases, it won’t cover the total cost. So, what can students do to help avoid thousands of dollars being expunged from their pockets? How can you pay for college for 4+ years without filing for bankruptcy? The best option for many is scholarships! A vast majority of students receive scholarship funding when they are initially accepted into an institution in their freshman year. According to College Raptor, 57% of financial aid received by students are grants and scholarships. Unfortunately, as the years go on, the percentage of students who maintain their scholarships can dwindle and many students are forced to take out loans or find other options to pay for college. However, finding scholarships for sophomores, juniors, and seniors can be easy with the right tools! Check out these 5 easy tips on how to search for scholarships while you are already in college. Recognize your resources There are many quick and easy resources where you can find scholarship opportunities that are available. Student organizations Campus clubs such as The Black Student Union and The National Honors Society Federal agencies Alumni and Greek associations Free online tools such as collegegreenlight.com Identify the types of scholarships available You can receive a scholarship for literally almost anything. There are tons of organizations that give scholarships for having unique qualities and characteristics! The Tall Clubs International Organization has a scholarship for students under the age of 21 who meet the height requirement of 5’10 for women and 6’2 for men. How cool is that? Save your essays Students can be discouraged from applying for scholarships because of all of the supplemental essays that are required. However, you can often use the same essay to apply to multiple scholarships or you can make simple tweaks to your essay and repurpose the content. Create a Google Doc or Word file with every essay you have written in order to easily retrieve them again. Keep up with deadlines No one wants to miss out on free money. Keep up with when scholarships are due by noting them on your calendar or setting reminders for yourself. Apply, Apply, Apply! Apply for as many scholarships as you want! There is no cap on how much money you can receive. As you can see, finding the perfect scholarship for you can be fun and easy. Although college can be expensive, there are tons of helpful scholarships that can be used towards your education. Don’t wait too long -- start your scholarship search early! WRITTEN BY Audrey James Howard University Audrey James, a junior psychology major from Chicago IL, is studying at Howard University in Washington DC. In her free time, she makes magic happen! Whether catching a bite to eat at a fun restaurant or going on a spontaneous adventure, you can always depend on Audrey to plan a load of exciting events! ... View more

Pave your own path and make some extra cash! So, now you’re in college and your life is buzzing with obligations. You didn’t expect to be this busy, and you’re probably on a budget. You don’t want to live off of the classic college diet of pasta and cereal forever, so it’s time to start making a little extra cash. Finance can be a stressful thing to keep track of when you’re in college, but it’s important to budget and plan ahead. If you find yourself running low on funds, there’s a variety of things you can do to help yourself save or make a little extra money in your free time. Buy, Sell, Trade When it came to finding more affordable alternatives, social media was the jackpot I’d never considered. I joined a Facebook page for students in my first year at my university, which segued into a web of university-related Facebook pages. From there, I found a student buy, sell, and trade page. It was brimming with posts where students were selling football tickets, used clothes, and a variety of other things. This resource works in terms of making and saving money, as you can buy gently used goods for much cheaper than market value, while also selling your own old or unused items. If your university doesn’t already have a student buy, sell, and trade Facebook page, you can easily make one or even use the Facebook marketplace feature to find sellers in your local area. Utilize Your Skills Many students don’t consider their own skills when looking for ways to make extra cash. Chances are, you have a versatile set of skills that you don’t realize can help you make and save money. College was my era of DIY projects and I tried to make everything I wanted but couldn’t afford. You can repurpose old clothing or furniture and create new décor or living-hacks for your space. Maybe you’ve always been in the era of DIY projects, and you’re already crafting recycled dream-catchers or making mason-jar string lights. Have you ever considered selling your craft? Freelancing is an expanding world, blooming with opportunities. Other students might not have your crafting skills yet, but could be looking for décor on a budget. Reach out to other students, find out if they’d be interested in one of your projects rather than buying those expensive online products. Part-Time Jobs I’m not here to tell you about all the local part-time pizza jobs or retail opportunities. Chances are, you’ve already looked into those and decided they won’t fit into your schedule. Thankfully, there are other opportunities that may just be a little harder to find. Check the local libraries and universities-affiliated buildings for opportunities. These part-time jobs tend to be very flexible for student schedules, and they can relate back to your studies. My sister worked in the printing center while she was a graphic design student. It helped her better learn the programs and printing processes related to her studies and give her the opportunity to meet other people in her major. Look for opportunities with low time commitments, like walking dogs or babysitting. There are a number of part-time jobs, like Shipt-Shopping and Uber driving, that can help you make a little extra money on your own time. Don’t forget about tutoring and peer-advisor jobs, either! Handling finance doesn’t have to be a constant stressor in college, just make sure to keep track of your spending habits and keep your eyes open for any extra money-making opportunities. Don’t be afraid to offer your skills and put yourself out there. Job opportunities aren’t just about the money, either. They’re a great way to network, make new friends, and refine your skills! WRITTEN BY Sydney Bagnall University of Michigan Sydney graduated in May 2019 with a major in English Literature and a minor in Graphic design. She has a knack for all things creative. Originally from Pennsylvania, she enjoys biking on rolling hills and never misses an opportunity to stop and observe the sky. If you don’t find her vigorously typing, you can find her outside. ... View more

How do you show you care while controlling your finances? Buying a birthday gift for someone you love is always complicated when they already have everything they need. That's why budgeting creative gifts for your friends and family is convenient. Creating a homemade gift shows how much you truly care for someone and is a manageable way to save your money and to show your creativity. Mason Jar of Love One of my favorite creations for a birthday gift that expresses how much you appreciate someone is what I call the "Mason Jar of Love." On index cards, you will want to write as many reasons as possible why you love and appreciate this person. Or, you can even describe your favorite memories with them. Listed below are some things you will need to create your "Mason Jar of Love:" Buy a mason jar: this is easily bought at Walgreens or Target. Find pictures of you and the person together Buy colorful index card: grab as many as you'd like or base the number of index cards on the age of the person you are giving the gift to Get colorful sharpies/pens Sneak in candy or chocolates in the jar Add everything into the jar as you'd like it to appear Coupon Book Another perfect gift to give for someone's birthday is a Coupon Book, especially for your mom. Since some moms are constantly busy, a homemade coupon book designed to make their lives easier is a great idea! In this coupon book, you can include: washing the dishes, cleaning her room, giving her a massage, taking her out to eat, cooking for her, and whatever else she would enjoy. Some things you will need are: Colorful construction paper Colorful pens Stapler or hole puncher Ribbon to tie the book together Bouquet of Candy Cars As seen in our blog, "10 gifting ideas on a budget," a bouquet of flowers is always a nice gift too, but giving a Bouquet of Candy Bars can be great too! This is an inexpensive and heartwarming gift full of their favorite snack including various amounts of chocolates, candy, and even gift cards! Supplies you'll need are: Vase Tissue paper or cellophane Ribbon Foam Candy bars Skewers Glue gun Gift card (optional) Recipe Ring In case you're confused about what kind of gift to give your friend who loves to bake and cook, try considering a Recipe Ring as a gift. A recipe ring can include all different kinds of recipes whether they are homemade or come in a box. Some supplies you'll need are: 4×6 blank note cards for the recipes Colored paper computer Silver ring Laminator Hole punch You'll need to make a hole punch in each notecard in the corner or on the sides in order to put the silver ring through them You'll also want a cover notecard detailing what the Recipe Ring consists of Homemade birthday gifts are simple, fun, and heartwarming to give and receive. You can always be as creative as you'd like when making gifts. WRITTEN BY Kristen Rossette Cristo Rey New York Kristen Rossette is a high school student at Cristo Rey New York graduating in 2020. She is currently an intern at Macmillan Learning in the Marketing department. Born and raised in Bronx, New York, you can usually find her in the city seeking opportunities in the fashion industry or for new places to eat! ... View more