Academic Survival  By  cover art

Academic Survival

By: Shandra L. McDonald
  • Summary

  • Thirty percent of students drop out of college during the 1st year. The transition from high school to college is a struggle for many students. I interview current and former college students about their freshman year experience and I invite guests who share topics relevant to college life. Join me as we discuss how to survive, thrive, and graduate. Academic Survival: The Podcast That Gets Freshmen to Graduation.
    © 2023 Shandra L. McDonald
    Show more Show less
Episodes
  • Inclusive Leadership for Students: A Conversation with Dr. Dar Mayweather
    Apr 15 2024

    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!

    Show more Show less
    38 mins
  • The Investigative Edge: April Simpson's Insights for Journalism Students
    Mar 15 2024

    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.

    Show more Show less
    44 mins
  • International Insights: Sarah Jung's CBYX Experience from Germany to Las Vegas
    Feb 15 2024

    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.🌟

    Show more Show less
    31 mins

What listeners say about Academic Survival

Average customer ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.