Negative versus positive self-talk It can be easy to get into a pattern of negative self-talk – “I don’t know why I can’t seem to keep up – I must be stupid!” “These people are so much smarter than me.” “I just don’t know what I am doing here”. However, If you can learn how…
Category: student success
Can gratitude influence the way you handle schoolwork?
Gratitude is the act of being thankful for the things you have or receive. It can lead to a variety of benefits – like improved mental and physical well-being and better relationships. Since gratitude allows you shift your focus away from negative thoughts and feelings it can lead to a more optimistic outlook. This can…
4 Tips to Overcome Test Anxiety
So, it’s time for your big exam When you sit down to take exams do you have racing thoughts, intense feelings of dread, and/or difficulty concentrating? Maybe you have experienced test anxiety. Try these tips to reduce those feelings to rock that exam. 1. First, be prepared! Being confident that you will pass the test can…
Release your creativity: Concept maps for final exams
A great way to study for a final exam is to create a concept map Interested in improving the way you prepare for final exams? Concept maps are a way to visualize major concepts or content from a course and can help you study for a big exam. Concept maps help you chunk content to…
Keep focused this year – your work space matters!
Do you find yourself sitting in front of a screen for many hours (or more) a day on most days of the week? Take a moment to be sure that your work space is set-up right. Why? Sitting in a less-than-ideal position can lead to stiffness and fatigue. Slouching stretches out ligaments and muscles in…
Figuring out what to do in life? You are not alone!
Do you ever ask yourself: Who am I? Where am I going? Going to college can be exciting, but can also be HARD – with a lot of decisions to make along the way. If you are not feeling so sure about your career choices right now and feel confused about where to go –…
Helping with time management
Time management is a problem for many university students – and you can help! Check out this blog to see how.
Screens and academics: The evidence
Using written text and hand writing notes are the best way to improve understanding of material, but sometimes digital products are the only thing available.
Social media and college students
In a previous post, I discussed the importance emerging adults place on social participation and how social participation helps with the formation of identity. Social participation is the primary reason that emerging adults use social media; so, one could argue that social media use could also be important for identity development! Social media and phone…
Substance misuse and students
Dark side of occupation The “dark side of occupation” is a phrase used to describe activities that are not life enhancing but people choose to spend their time doing.1 Substance misuse may be considered within the dark side of occupation, especially in university students. Substance misuse may also be seen as a maladaptive serious leisure…