Academic Survival

In this episode, Officer Jill sheds light on the critical topics of campus safety, law enforcement, and the enriching experience of attending an HBCU (Howard University). Three Key Takeaways: Know Your Rights and Stay Compliant: Understanding what you should and should not do during interactions with law enforcement can help in maintaining personal safety and ensuring respectful communication. Utilize Campus Resources: Familiarize yourself with campus safety features and resources such as escorted walks and emergency buttons to stay safe, particularly at night. Be Mindful Online: Always verify the identity of people met online, keep personal information private, and avoid posting real-time updates of your activities on social media. This episode of Academic Survival is packed with vital information for students, especially those navigating new environments. Don't miss out on the wisdom shared by Officer Jill and that can help enhance your safety and well-being both on and off campus. Connect with me: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AcademicSurvivalPodcast Website: www.AcademicSurvival.com Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating here: LINK Additional Links from Episode: YouTube: The Human Side with Officer Jill Episode: From Critic to Cop - The Human Side with Officer Jill Howard University

In this episode, Jonathan Jackson Williams, tackles the challenges and strategies tied to physical activity and recovery. He highlights the significance of listening to one's body and knowing when to take a break from gym routines. Jonathan, a kinesiology student at California State University, Dominguez Hills, emphasizes balancing fitness goals with self-care and underlines how consistency leads to fitness success. Jonathan shares his journey, including his transfer from Mount San Antonio Community College to California State University, Dominguez Hills, attracted by the affordability, diversity, and the strong kinesiology program offered. As he describes, the kinesiology major equips students with knowledge in fitness, nutrition, physical therapy, and opens various career paths like gym ownership, personal training, and physical therapy. The episode also delves into Jonathan's personal experience managing his auditory processing disorder, which affects his ability to quickly grasp and retain information. He explains how he leverages tools like audio recordings of lectures, tutors, and a life coach to overcome his academic challenges. Both hosts stress the importance of seeking help, utilizing available resources like office hours, and self-advocacy to succeed academically and personally. To wrap up, Jonathan discusses his potential internship at a local gym and how technology, like fitness watches, plays a crucial role in tracking physical activity. We close-out this episode with by affirming the importance of rest and recovery as part of the fitness and wellness journey. Three Key Takeaways: 🏋️ **Balancing Fitness and Self-Care:** It's crucial to listen to your body and allow for rest days to prevent overexertion and ensure sustainable progress. 🧠 **Utilizing Resources for Academic Success:** Taking advantage of resources like tutors, office hours, and assistive technologies can significantly enhance academic performance, especially for students with learning differences. 🌟 **Commitment to Consistency:** Small, consistent efforts in fitness and academics can lead to substantial long-term achievements. Thank you for tuning in to this insightful episode of Academic Survival!

In this episode, I turn the mic over to Aryss Richardson, who is a high school senior simultaneously taking college courses. She aspires to be a nurse. I've arranged for her to interview the esteemed Dr. Angela Allen-Washington, a doctor of nursing practice with over 20 years of experience. I really wanted her to have the opportunity to interview someone in her career field of interest and was excited to make this happen. The central theme of the episode revolved around nursing, healthcare, and the essential components of patient-provider relationships, providing valuable insights for those considering a career in nursing or healthcare industry. Here are the detailed show notes from the episode: - Dr. Angela Allen-Washington emphasized the significance of collaborative care in addressing complex medical cases, showcasing an example of collaborating with a cardiologist to provide comprehensive care for a pediatric patient with a heart murmur. This underscores the importance of teamwork and effective communication in delivering holistic healthcare. - The episode delved into the critical aspect of fostering trust with patients. Dr. Allen-Washington emphasized active listening, engaging with patient concerns, and involving them in shared decision-making to build strong, trusting relationships. This illuminates the essential role of empathy and patient-centered care in nursing and healthcare professions. - The importance of staying abreast of healthcare advancements and the evolving industry landscape was highlighted. Dr. Allen-Washington shared her strategies, such as engaging in continuing education, joining professional organizations, and using diverse sources like articles, podcasts, journals, blogs, and social media to stay informed. This underscores the significance of lifelong learning and professional development in nursing and healthcare careers. Key takeaways from the episode: - Collaboration is vital in delivering comprehensive healthcare. 🤝 - Active listening and patient engagement are integral to building trusting patient-provider relationships. 🎧 - Continual knowledge acquisition and adaptability are essential for success in the evolving healthcare landscape. 📚

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 emphasizes the 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 light on 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 of Agriculture. 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 societal issues. 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: My special guest is Andreea Coscai Andreea 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: My special guest is Mamadou Bringing 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 Groups 00:02:17 - Mamadou's Engineering Journey 00:05:32 - Challenges in Engineering 00:09:14 - Different Types of Engineering 00:17:58 - The Importance of Collaboration in Engineering 00:19:36 - Advice for Freshmen in College 00:22:38 - Learn How to Learn 00:26:20 - Exciting Projects in Engineering 00:28:30 - Building and Fulfillment 00:34:40 - The Importance of Skills and Certifications 00:35:00 - Increasing Diversity in the Engineering Workforce 00:35:50 - Exposing Students to the Space Industry 00:36:29 - Mentoring and Balancing Work 00:37:07 - Overcoming Challenges in Math Education

Astrophysicist Jessica A. Harris: Inspiring and Empowering Underrepresented Students to Pursue Careers in Science An 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: 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. 📌 Stressed about college? Bria Edgar and Shandra McDonald dive into the essentials of college life to find balance, manage stress, and prioritize mental health. 📌 Bria Edgar, a former school psychologist and future mental health therapist, shares her journey and experiences, offering valuable insights and tips for college students. 📌 From coping mechanisms to prioritizing self-care, Bria provides practical advice, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being in academic success. 📌 Discover actionable strategies, personal stories, and expert advice to help you thrive in college and prioritize your mental health.

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: websitehttps://thesundevils.com/Scholar Baller

Switching Paths: Finding Your True Passion with Musician Blake Leigh Meet 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 Leigh My 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 Music Finding 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:

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 Graduates Vertical 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 Podcast He'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 Journey Academic Endurance, Overcoming Challenges, and Self-Reflection with Ahmara Watson Nico 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