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Student Life

Your Dorm Can Be Eco-Friendly Too With These 10 Simple Tips

August 7, 2021

Dorm life is a great transitional step between living at home and living on your own. It’s also an excellent time to cultivate eco-friendly habits that reduce waste and encourage sustainable living.

Why should college students be eco-friendly?

Taking a look at a few statistics shows how dire the environmental crisis really is:

–    A college student will, on average, produce 640 pounds of solid waste per year.

–    Students will produce, on average, 500 disposable cups per year.

–    Each American produces around 90 000 pounds of rubbish in their lifetime.

Fortunately, there are actions you can take to combat this crisis, and your dorm is the best place to start.

  1. Avoid plastic utensils

Single use plastics like disposable knives and forks contribute to global warming. Their manufacture uses fossil fuels and releases massive amounts of greenhouse gas. When plastic is discarded in landfills it increases the amount of methane released into the atmosphere. Always use reusable cutlery, as well as cups and mugs.

  1. Save water

Cutting down on water waste is one of the most eco-friendly actions to take. Why?

–    Droughts are on the increase.

–    Many people already have little or no access to clean water.

–    The Earth’s water supply is finite–97.5% of the water on Earth is saltwater.

Take shorter showers and close the tap while you’re brushing your teeth. Both will save a lot of water.

  1. Choose environmentally friendly cleaning products

The chemicals in many cleaning products are extremely harmful to the environment. Try to buy plant-based products, or even make your own to clean your dorm.

  1. Buddy up to do laundry

Doing little bits of laundry every few days wastes a lot of water. That doesn’t mean you should wear dirty clothes all the time. Try buddying up with a friend or roommate to avoid wasting water every laundry day.

  1. Use reusable bags for shopping

Many shops are getting better at cutting down on plastic bags, but there’s still a long way to go. If you carry a light tote bag, it’s easy to cut down on your personal plastic use.

  1. Reuse glass jars instead of plastic containers

Rather than buying plastic containers to store food, use recycled glass jars. This cuts down on plastic waste. Every bit of plastic you buy contributes to the tons of non-biodegradable rubbish polluting the planet.

  1. Minimize use of heaters and air conditioners

It’s very convenient to turn on the heater or air con to make your dorm more comfortable, but both appliances use a lot of electricity. Every bit of power saved is a help in the fight against climate change.

  1. Unplug devices when not using them

It’s easy to forget to unplug chargers or to leave your phone or laptop plugged in unnecessarily. Even if you’re one of the large percentage of people who use their phones before they go to sleep, make sure you don’t leave it plugged in the whole night. 

  1. Use LED lights or CFLs (compact fluorescent lights)

Using the right bulbs can save a lot of electricity. Avoid halogen lights, which are less energy efficient. Instead, opt for LED lights or CFLs, which last longer.

  1. Natural air freshener

Just like eco-friendly cleaning products, home-made or natural air freshener is the environmentally friendly alternative. Use candles or keep little bags of lavender in your room to keep it smelling fresh.

Every little bit helps when it comes to combating climate change. Don’t discount the effects of your good dorm habits, no matter how small they seem.

Student Life

Car vs. Motorcycle: What’s a Better Form of Transportation for College Students?

August 5, 2021

College students that need to commute or have a convenient mode of transportation might assume that they need to invest in a car, but that isn’t necessarily true! Motorcycles have become a popular choice for college students. Some even say that motorcycles are a better choice than cars.

Is a motorcycle better than a car for a college student like you? Check how the pros and cons fit with your needs to find out.

Pros

What are the biggest pros of driving a motorcycle rather than a car? Let’s take a look.

Affordable

Most motorcycles are not nearly as expensive as a car, so saving money is possible when you drive one. Not only will you save on the cost of the bike, you are likely to save on insurance and gas costs as well. Saving money is important for students, so this is a big pro.

Insurance, in particular, is one area where you are likely to save a lot. Car insurance can cost up to $3,000 a year depending on the type of coverage that you get while motorcycle insurance typically caps out far lower than that.

Look at your current financial situation and plans. Will saving money by driving a motorcycle help you accelerate how fast you reach your savings goals? If so, it might be time to consider switching to a bike rather than a car to get a move on things.

Fuel Efficient

Motorcycles get better gas mileage than cars do, which means that you will spend less money filling your bike. Additionally, this also means that you are going to be burning less fuel. This benefit means that you are doing a small part to help the environment, and many students will enjoy that.

Convenience

Motorcycles can be very convenient when you attend school in a city area or somewhere that parking can be restrictive.

Finding spots for motorcycles is often easier to do than finding a place for a car since they do not take up as much space. Most schools will even have defined areas where motorcycles can safely park, which can be a big time saver.

Cons

As with all things, there are always cons alongside where there are pros. Here are some of the drawbacks of switching to a motorcycle as a college student.

Safety

For some people, the risks of driving a motorcycle might outweigh the benefits. Motorcycles are known to be a dangerous mode of transportation. However, ensuring that you follow the rules of the road and wear the correct safety gear can help to keep you safe. The team at Motorcycle Safety Lawyers told us, “Though helmets are not legally required in every state, they have been shown to be extremely effective in preventing deaths and reducing injuries in motorcycle riders.”

Investing time into learning the right driving techniques and getting this gear is important if you decide to ride a motorcycle.

Limited Carrying Capacity

Another potential con for some students is that you cannot carry much with you on a bicycle. While it might not be an issue to get your groceries home, hauling anything larger will quickly become problematic.

Consider if you often need to haul things. Do you have a friend with a car that can help out sometimes? Do you need more space more than once a month? Asking yourself these questions will help make the decision easier.

Remember that you can always get the occasional rideshare when you do need to haul more than makes sense on a bike.

Passengers

Another potential negative of having a bike rather than a car is that you cannot easily bring more than one passenger anywhere. If you like to drive your friends around or anticipate needing space for more passengers, it might be a good idea to look at cars rather than motorcycles.

The Verdict

There is no clear answer to whether a motorcycle or a car will be the best mode of transportation for a college student. The best way to decide is to look at your personal situation and consider the pros and cons presented today. With that information, you can determine whether or not a motorcycle makes sense for your lifestyle.

Health Student Life

Avoiding Burnout: 11 Tips for College Students & Young Professionals

August 1, 2021

It’s easy to dismiss the possibility of burnout. When you’re young and firing on all cylinders, you feel like you can conquer the world. But burnout isn’t something that happens all at once. It creeps up on you and, before you know it, those cylinders are getting stuck.

Here are a few tips to help college students and young professionals keep that from happening.

Maintain Yourself & Your Stuff

Prioritize your health to keep yourself in shape for the long haul. Remember, this isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon. And like any good marathon runner, you have to prepare ahead of time.

  • Set a regular sleep schedule. 
    • Go to sleep and wake up at roughly the same time every day. 
    • Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages or alcohol in the evening. 
    • Stay off electronics a couple of hours before bedtime.
  • Eat right. Carbs and sugar can give you short-term energy, but they can also cause you to crash. Mom was right: Eat your veggies.
  • Exercise. Shoot for 30 minutes a day, and it doesn’t have to be strenuous. A brisk walk, stretching, or a bike ride all work great.
  • Take care of your equipment. Just like your body and mind, it’s important to keep your most necessary tools in good condition. 
    • From your car to your computer to your clothes, cleaning your items regularly and according to instructions helps them last longer. 
    • Invest in protective cases for your electronics. 
    • Keep up with your car’s scheduled maintenance.
    • Assemble an emergency car kit, and keep it handy in case you need it.

Pace Yourself

  • Take breaks. The temptation to “power through” is real, but you’ll actually get your work done sooner if you take breaks periodically. Your brain can only focus for a limited time, and your body can only sit in one position for so long without getting antsy, achy, or both.
  • Set milestones. Don’t try to tackle everything at once. Mini-deadlines, or milestones, can help you feel like you’re making progress on your way to your ultimate goal.
  • Reward yourself. If you’ve accomplished a task, do something fun to reward yourself. It doesn’t have to be expensive — if you’re a student or just getting started professionally, you’re probably on a tight budget. Listen to some of your favorite music or watch an episode of your favorite show. Or get out of the house and go for a bike ride.

Set Boundaries

  • Focus on one thing at a time. Multitasking seems natural, but did you know it’s actually impossible to think about more than one thing at once? It can also be exhausting. Set priorities and focus on one thing at a time.
  • Make a schedule. If you’re working and going to school at the same time, it’s easy to let one interfere with the other. Plus, you’ll always have other interests competing for your time. Maximize your efficiency by making a schedule and sticking to it.
  • Avoid distractions. Once you’ve made a schedule, take steps to block out distractions so you can get things done:
    • Set up a home office and put a do-not-disturb sign on the door.
    • Let family and roommates know when you’ll be working and that you’ll be out of touch during that time.
    • Get a set of noise-canceling headphones.
  • Do something completely different. On your own time, recharge by doing something completely different than what you do at work or school. Learn something new, and switch things up.

Work and school are important, but your physical and mental health is important, too. Remember that, and you’ll be on your way to an even brighter future.

BIO: My name is Jessica Larson. I’m a married Midwestern mom and a solopreneur. I create online courses for students, and I’ve started and run several other businesses through the years. My goals are to support my family while still actually spending time with them, to act as an entrepreneurial role model for my two daughters, and to share what I’ve learned through The Solopreneur Journal.

Student Life

How to Fight College Student Burnout

July 29, 2021

Burnout in college as a student is a significant ordeal. And if you are a parent, mentor, or professor looking to find ways to help your students make the most of their college experiences without losing sight of what is most important, obtaining their degree, you have come to the right place. There are some great ideas below to help prevent student burnout.

Evaluate Course Load

One of the quickest ways to burn out in college, particularly as a new student, is to take too many courses at once. Perhaps it would be best to use this time to take a look at your student’s college courses and go over each and everyone together. Help your student determine which types of courses are needed to achieve their degree, and which are geared more towards their personal interests.

If you find that their major classes are the ones that are most challenging, it might help to limit those courses to no more than two or three per semester. You want to help them work towards getting their degree without having the experience become overwhelming.

On the other hand, if their personal interest courses require too much time, have them consider cutting back on those in the future and adding courses that will be less time-consuming. The ultimate goal is to balance courses each semester so that the student is academically challenged but also has enough free time to engage in other activities.

Ask for Help

If, after going through the course requirements, it becomes clear that the courses are needed, but they need help with the homework or concepts that are discussed in class, finding a tutor may be beneficial. Many colleges offer tutoring in a variety of subjects to help students become more comfortable with the subject matter. Making use of their available resources can make all the difference in alleviating burnout and getting good grades.

Another area perfect for getting additional academic support is for graduate school entrance exams. The most challenging tests tend to be for the sciences, medicine, and law. And while preparing for any test requires a certain level of dedication and commitment, MCAT tutoring, for example, can help provide the skills needed to get into the best medical schools.

Carve Out Self-Care Time

Another aspect of college life is that there are always so many activities to enjoy. From parties to conferences, and everything in between, having the ability to take part in so much often can seem like college students should stretch themselves to the limit to take advantage of the available opportunities.

However, learning to take care of themselves and their health is a major part of transitioning to being an adult. And one of the most vital aspects of this is figuring out which events and activities are most enjoyable versus those that provide mild entertainment.

Focus on helping them navigate this area by discussing which activities have provided them with the most information or closest friendships. Are there just one or two clubs that they tend to enjoy most? If so, perhaps they should focus their time on these events and meetings and only occasionally frequent others until they feel less burned out.

Get Into a Healthy Routine

Now that the core of college has been addressed, it is vital to take a look at the college student’s health. To prevent and recover from burnout, living a healthy lifestyle is a prerequisite.

Help them navigate better eating habits. And note, that does not mean all they can eat is a salad. However, having a few servings of vegetables and fruit instead of French fries can be a great start. Teach the importance of taking small healthy actions each day that can add up to a much healthier lifestyle overall.

And lastly, it is important to use exercise and movement to maintain health. There is no need to go to the gym every day. But trying to get in an extra ten minutes or so of walking a day can play a great role in helping them to feel better.

Working together with college students to find ways to prevent burnout can be key to helping them achieve success. Utilizing the above tips can provide a strong foundation for how to start to intervene if college life becomes too stressful.

Adulting Student Life

Overcoming the Challenges of Parenting While In College

July 28, 2021

While our kids are everything to us, it doesn’t mean that the world completely stops when our family grows. Parents still have hobbies, work, and some are eager to continue their education. If you are attempting to fit in schooling along with your busy family life, then you know all too well the struggles that can arise.

From finding the funds to pay for your education to finding the time to study, there is a lot to juggle, but it isn’t impossible. To help you out, we have compiled common challenges and how parents can overcome them.

Lack of Time

Poor time management can sink your educational career, and the fear of not having time to spare can stop some prospective students from even trying. Just remember that you don’t have to go to a full-scale university to get the schooling you desire.

Online programs are gaining major steam, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only can you learn everything that you would at a brick-and-mortar institution, but you can do so in your own home, on your schedule, and you get the chance to network with students around the world. Before you commit to a school, complete some research and find those that are flexible to your parenting needs and have the exact programs you are looking for.

You will really want to work on your time management during this period, as you never know what else life will throw at you. As adults, you may be faced with family and travel emergencies, or you may be selling your home for the first time, which requires some extra prep. All of these events can take time and be stressful, so you want to be ready. Cut yourself some slack and remember that you are only human.

Lack of Funds

Another challenge is learning how you can afford the cost of schooling while also raising a family. Just remember that when there is a will, there is a way, and although money may be tight, there is always something you can put to the wayside.

The best way to gauge how much money you have to spend on parenting and schooling is to create a budget. Take the time to notate all of your incoming funds and then think about every bill and recurring event that you pay for each month and determine what you can eliminate. Do you need to buy coffee and lunch every day, or can you make both at home and save money? What about all of those cable channels? Can you get rid of anything that you watch less often?

Also, remember that schooling is very important for the betterment of you as a person and the life you provide for your children, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Ask the school of your choice if they have grants for parents. You can also apply for government grants and look to local charitable organizations.

What to Do With the Kids

The other challenge is figuring out what to do with the children while at school or completing school work. You need to find a happy medium between giving school the focus it requires while also providing proper care for your family.

One option is to put your kids in daycare, preschool, or even a camp during the weekdays to keep them occupied. Now that pandemic restrictions are being lifted, there is a chance for kids to get together again and learn new things themselves while you are in class. Just remember to create a smooth transition for your kids by practicing your leaving routine of putting on shoes, gathering backpacks, and saying goodbyes.

When it comes to studying, you may have to get creative. One option is to create a designated study time when you and your kids can do your homework at the table all at once. You should also prioritize your assignments by doing the largest projects during the family study time and sneaking in smaller work when you get the time between your parenting duties.

No one said that parenting and going to school is easy, but it is possible. Follow the steps above and you can have a promising educational career while raising a family.

BIO: Sam Bowman has a passion for learning. As a seasoned professional writer, he specializes in topics about people, education, tech and how they merge. In his spare time he likes running, reading, and combining the two in a run to his local bookstore.

Student Life

Smart Space-Saving Kitchen Organization Tips For Student Living

July 26, 2021

Whether you’re moving into your first off-campus apartment or returning to student dorms this year, being smart about space is a common skill students need to hone in their college years. Student accommodation is not known for being spacious or filled with storage facilities – particularly in the kitchen. However, if you’re a cooking aficionado, want to save money in college, or simply can’t bear to have dining hall meals for the school year, there is a way to overcome the challenge of smaller cooking spaces and still have your kitchen essentials – being smart about your kitchen storage. By getting creative and investing in space-saving essentials, your student kitchen can be an oasis of culinary adventures (or late-night snacking), without the clutter and mess.

Invest In Go-To Multipurpose Cookware

Versatility is key in small kitchens. Investing in a few high-quality pans that you can use for multiple recipes and cooking styles will see you through your college years, and if you’re lucky, even into your first apartment. The trick to choosing multipurpose cookware is to look at the reviews and the versatility. Does it come with a cover and enough depth to make a casserole as well as soup? Some pans now come with a removable handle, which is handy for stacking them and saving shelf space.

Utilize Your Cabinet Doors As Well As Cabinets 

An over-the-door organizer is cheap and great for using up that often-forgotten space behind your cabinet doors. From holding your makeshift spice rack at college to storing your cutting board or cleaning essentials, kitchen cabinet organizers are ideal for small spaces, and help you see what you have at all times – essential for those living on a college budget. You can also get one for as little as $14 (The Simple Houseware Kitchenwrap Organizer Rack) as seen in New York Magazine’s list of Best Kitchen Cabinet Organizers On Amazon.

Another useful hack: small cabinet organizers can also be handy for keeping your  fridge tidy and fresh. Use smaller baskets or cabinet organizers to organize your condiments, juices and vegetables into different sections. You can also get creative with it and organize your fridge according to meal ideas (breakfast/lunches/dinners) or according to food groups (meat/fruit/vegetables).

Magnetic Kitchen Wall Storage

Another great idea for organizing your kitchen in student accommodation is to use your kitchen shelves for double duty. One way to do this is to use a shelf for handing your pans or cups as well as storing pantry items. With the help of magnetic wall storage hooks and shelves, you can easily create a double-duty kitchen shelf without the hassle of DIY. This is a great idea to add extra storage if you have open shelving in your kitchen, and banish clutter.

Recycle And Rethink Your Old Jars

With a bit of warm water and dishwasher soap, most jar labels easily peel off, leaving you with well-designed, clear glass canisters. Fill them up with your pantry staples like rice, pasta and cereals. You can even make your own spice jars with smaller versions. Best of all, they cost little to nothing to do. You can even ask your family or friends to save you their jars if you want. When organized on a shelf, it helps you to easily see what you have, and still looks stylish.

Living in student accommodation can mean you’re short on space, but you can approach the problem creatively. With a few clever space-saving hacks and inventive gadgets, you can make your student kitchen an organized and well-stocked oasis of culinary adventures.

Student Life Transition

High Paying Jobs for Students With Loans

July 24, 2021

College is expensive, and there is no way around that. So what we find ourselves doing is taking out more student loans and graduating with more and more student debts. And the worst part is that some loans can take decades to pay off, which puts certain aspects of our lives on hold. 

However, some students can get rid of their student loans quicker than others based on their career choices. This guide will show you the best jobs that can help you pay off your student loan debts faster. 

  1. Physician 

It’s great to complete both an undergraduate program and medical school. But, unfortunately, physicians, anesthesiologists, GPs, surgeons, and other medical professionals can be saddled with massive student debts. 

Fortunately, most graduates of any of these programs can get a first-year salary of about $210,000. That can help you make significant improvements with your student loan repayment. 

  1. Analytics Manager 

Are you data-minded? You can put your skills to use as an analytic manager. To pursue this career, you must acquire a bachelor’s degree in statistics, math, IT, or other related fields. Data analysts help organizations and companies to make high-quality informed decisions based on statistical analysis. You can get between $80,000 and $90,000 a year. 

  1. Software Architect 

Software developers or architects are the geniuses behind your favorite computer programs and apps. If you have a knack for this career, you should pursue a computer science degree and specialize in development. 

You’ll need many hands-on experiences to secure a position in this field. So it’s advisable to search for internship opportunities while still enrolled in school. That can shoot up your chances of securing a job position. 

That’s why the competition between developers can be fierce, and their salaries tend to start just below $100,000.

  1. Air Traffic Controller 

It’s not a simple task to maintain the traffic flow around airports and throughout the world. However, air traffic controllers are the most detailed-oriented problem solvers, and they have excellent organizational skills. 

If you want to pursue a job in this field, you need to complete a bachelor’s degree program, including courses at the Federal Aviation Administration. Don’t worry about the extra schooling, though, as you may get about $110,000 a year. 

  1. Financial Manager 

If you enjoy managing money and working with numbers, you should consider acquiring a degree in finance. As a financial manager, you can help organizations, companies, and various people keep their economic lives intact. 

Financial managers produce and analyze financial reports, direct investments and can make about $115,000 every year. 

  1. Pharmacist 

Pharmacists work alongside doctors and patients to make sure that prescription medications are used safely. When you complete four years of pharmacy school and pass two license exams, you get your Pharm.D. From there, you can work at pharmacies located in health facilities, grocery stores, and drug stores and earn around $120,000 a year. 

  1. IT Manager Or Computer Systems Manager 

Information Technology managers or Computer Systems Manager assist in coordinating and directing computer-related activities. For example, if an organization needs a new computer system, the IT manager would coordinate everything. 

With a bachelor’s degree and a bit of experience, you can make around $125,000 a year. However, you can get more experience by taking internships while you’re in school. 

  1. Lawyer 

You can consider law if you’re not interested in any of the careers mentioned. Lawyers work with clients in both civil and criminal lawsuits in many different areas of the law. Depending on the area of expertise you choose, you can get between $80,000 to $160,000. 

Final Thoughts 

Student loans can be a huge burden to carry, which can leave you frustrated at times. However, one of the best ways to pay off your debts, besides public service loan forgiveness programs, is to get a high-paying job. Use this guide as a step in the right direction. If you don’t know what to do, we recommend talking to an expert to help you. 

Health Student Life

How College Students Can Utilize Telehealth in Post-Pandemic Life

July 22, 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic was a terrible experience that most of us hope to never go through ever again. But while it was scary and sad for many, it also brought a few positive things to light, and the mainstream adoption of telehealth was one of them. This awesome technology offers many great benefits to those who use it, and in the college world, it can be a lifesaver.

Let’s talk a bit about telehealth, why college students should take advantage, and a few considerations to keep in mind along the way.

What is Telehealth?

In a nutshell, telehealth is a method of getting medical attention through your computer, tablet, or mobile phone. Due to its popularity, people can talk to just about any type of medical professional, from doctors to psychiatrists, for at least an initial assessment. From there, you will be advised if you need to go to an in-person consultation.

On top of speaking with a doctor, telehealth platforms also allow you to exchange information, including upcoming appointments and test results. All of this avoids extra visits to physical medical practices and emergency rooms so those who need the most help can get service without delay.

Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of telehealth is that it allows those in rural areas without a hospital nearby to get the same care that those in cities can access. This is a great benefit for college students as universities are spread all over the nation, with some more secluded than others.

Great for College Students

Beyond having almost instant access to medical care regardless of where you go to school, there are many other perks of telehealth for college students. For starters, even if you don’t have a computer, you can also chat with a doctor face to face on mobile devices, and you may even be able to do it from the school library. Even better, when you can skip the waiting room and go straight to the doctor, you may be able to fit in a session between classes.

When you are in college, it is all about the budget, and unfortunately, even watching one’s health is subject to how much cash is at hand. Luckily, as opposed to doctor’s visits that can cost several hundred dollars, a telehealth visit is often less than $20.

Telehealth is also exceptionally easy to use and takes a lot less time than the effort required to schedule a doctor’s appointment, drive to the office, sit in waiting rooms and make your way home. This is why many people avoid going to the doctor. However, you must get help if you have concerns, and this ease of use should make those in college more willing to reach out for care.

Considerations

While telehealth is an incredible innovation, there are some considerations to take into account when using the service. For instance, you can only accomplish so much over video, and if you have a more significant medical issue, you will still likely need to see a doctor in person which will take time and money.

College students also spend a lot of time looking at screens for classes and homework, and telehealth is just another screen. The issue there is that prolonged screen exposure without adequate breaks can lead to blurred vision and nearsightedness, so protect your eyes by taking breaks every 20 minutes to stare at a spot 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

Finally, just like any online activity, what you do with telehealth is subject to theft by cybercriminals, so never share your telehealth password and make sure to always use a secure connection in a library or your dorm room.

For many college students, telehealth is a godsend. Use this resource whenever you feel ill and get the attention you deserve.

BIO: Dan Matthews is a writer with a degree in English from Boise State University. He has extensive experience writing online at the intersection of business, finance, marketing, and culture.

Student Life Transition

Should You Pursue a Postgraduate Degree?

July 20, 2021

After graduating, most students head into the workforce. However, some find themselves in a post-grad slump and rather than transition into the “real world”, they choose to study further. Education is never a bad thing, but there are times it may not be the right decision. If you’re thinking of pursuing a postgraduate degree, here’s what to consider.

5 Reasons Why a Postgrad Degree Makes Sense

If a postgraduate degree will support your career goals, pursuing it makes sense.

1.  It can give you an extra edge in the job market

When you first graduate, you’re competing against other graduates as well as more experienced players in your field. Completing a postgrad degree could give you a competitive advantage in the job market. 

2.  You want a higher salary

The average annual salary for someone with a bachelor’s degree is approximately $59,124 compared to $69,732 for someone with a master’s degree and $84,396 with a doctorate degree. 

3.  You want to specialise or improve your expertise 

An advanced degree is worthwhile if you want to improve your skills or specialize. Let’s say you did a general degree like business administration. Studying for a postgrad in finance or economics could sharpen your skills and boost your credibility.

4.  You aspire to a leadership position

An additional degree can improve your chances of moving up the ladder. Many C-suite executives have completed an MBA (Master’s of Business Administration). However, degrees in science and engineering are also popular among executives.

5.  Your profession values additional letters behind your title 

In certain professions such as the medical, academic, or science fields, a master’s, doctorate or PhD degree is highly valued. It may earn you more respect and make you more employable. In fact, the lack of an advanced degree could actually hold you back. 

4 Reasons you should not do a postgrad degree 

Furthering your studies is a huge investment of time and money. So, you need to be sure you’re doing it for the right reasons. Here are a few reasons not to do it. 

1.  You’re doing it for prestige

Be clear on why you want to further your studies. Is it to keep up with your peers or for prestige? If you see it as a status symbol, this is the wrong reason to pursue a postgrad degree. 

2.  You’re time poor

If you have found employment or started a family, you may not have time for studies. Attending classes, studying for exams, and researching and writing dissertations take a lot of time. Can you fit it all in? Rather than overstretch yourself, it may be best to postpone your studies until you have more free time.

3. You’re unsure of your career goals 

The average person changes careers 5-7 times in their lifetime. How confident are you that you’ll want to remain in your chosen field 10 years from now? If you’re unsure, it may be best to gain some work experience first and reevaluate your career path later on. Then you can select a course of study that better aligns with the new direction you want to take. 

4.  You can’t afford it 

If you relied on a loan for your bachelor’s degree, increasing your student debt to get a postgrad degree may not be wise. If you can’t afford it, don’t do it — at least not now. You can always pursue a postgrad degree later on when you are more financially secure.

Should you decide to embark on a postgraduate degree, GradGuard can help protect your tuition fees. Our tuition insurance will reimburse your college fees should you be unable to complete your studies due to a serious illness or accident. 

BIO: Deevra Norling is a freelance content writer. She’s covered topics such as entrepreneurship, small business, career, human resources, e-commerce, and finance. When not writing, she’s tossing balls on the beach with the four-legged fur babies she looks after as a professional pet sitter.

Student Life

Why Tuition Insurance is an Essential Consideration for College Families

July 19, 2021

For many college families, the expense of higher education is one of the largest investments they will ever make. With so much money at stake, it’s important for college parents to make  a plan for the unexpected, in case their student is forced to withdraw from school due to a severe injury or illness. 

What is Tuition Insurance?

For most of the 20 million college students and their families, the financial loss of an entire semester of college is a burden big enough to break the bank. Tens of thousands of dollars are on the line and college families are smart to consider purchasing tuition insurance before the start of the semester. Tuition Insurance provides a refund for tuition, room and board, and academic fees when schools may not in the event of a covered medical withdrawal. It’s not drop out insurance and students must completely withdraw from classes due to a covered injury or illness. 

College is a fun time to meet new people, create memorable experiences, and of course, learn. That’s not to say it doesn’t come without risks. Knowing some of the biggest financial risks will prepare you for the unexpected. 

Tuition Insurance: What’s Covered?

Tuition insurance may not have been essential for all families to consider 30 years ago, when college was more widely affordable and school refunds were more generous. But things have changed. Given the high cost of college and less generous refund policies, tuition insurance is an important benefit that colleges and universities can offer to protect their students. 

Coverage for Major Injuries and Illnesses, Including Covid-19

Even before the pandemic, ordinary medical conditions, not just Covid-19, are a source of large financial losses for both students and schools. GradGuard is the only major provider in the country to cover withdrawals due to becoming ill with Covid-19. 

The 2020 National Student Health Assessment from the American College Health Association data reveals some of the ordinary risks college students and their families face today, and the impact it has on degree completion:

  • Concussion: 2.2% 
  • Mononucleosis (mono): 56.9%
  • Stress: 43.7%
  • Death of a friend/family member: 40.5%
  • Influenza (flu) or flu-like illness: 50:4%
  • Orthopedic injury (broken bone, fracture, sprain, etc): 2.5%
  • Cold/virus or other respiratory illness: 42.1%

Many students arrive at college with on-going and chronic conditions that may interfere with their studies, such as anxiety and depression. GradGuard’s Tuition Insurance covers controlled pre-existing conditions for students who are medically cleared to attend school. 

Mental Health Coverage Included

Last fall, college families and experts alike were most worried about students becoming ill with Covid-19. This year, the focus is on how the pandemic has greatly impacted the mental health and wellbeing of college students. 

GradGuard became the first and only program in the country to cover mental health as a condition. The growth in student mental health concerns looms as another risk to the investments families make when paying for college. 

Among the troubling trends:
  • 2020 report by the American College Health Association found more than half of nearly 9,000 students surveyed experienced anxiety or depression. 
  • A nationwide study published by the Journal of Adolescent Health found that rates of moderate to severe anxiety and depression among U.S. college students rose substantially over the last few years — from 18% and 23%, to 34% and 41%, respectively.
  • 2020 survey by the American Council on Education found 68% of college and university presidents say student mental health and well-being is top concern. 

Room and Board and Academic Fees are Also Covered

Tuition Insurance covers more than just the cost of tuition. GradGuard’s plans can also cover room and board and academic fees. Most higher education institutions only provide a partial refund of tuition during the first five weeks of a semester, and virtually no schools provide refunds for academic fees or housing. 

Conclusion

More than 20 million college students are getting ready to head to campus in the fall. After an extraordinarily challenging year due to the pandemic, families are looking for ways to protect their investment from the unexpected. 

By working with more than 400 colleges and universities nationwide, GradGuard is able to offer students and their families comprehensive and affordable coverage for up to 100% of the cost of college including student housing, tuition and academic fees. Each policy also includes Student Life Assistance, which helps families through the logistics that may accompany an unexpected student withdrawal. GradGuard’s mission is all about helping more students graduate. With Tuition Insurance, students who are forced to withdraw are given the rare opportunity for a do-over. 

Major or chronic illnesses, accidents and injuries happen frequently, even to young and healthy college students. The good news is that college families can protect their investment in higher education by purchasing tuition insurance. Visit GradGuard.com/Tuition to see the plans available on your campus. 

Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Plan(s) underwritten by BCS Insurance Company or Jefferson Insurance Company. AGA Service Company is the licensed producer and administrator of these plans. Plans include insurance benefits and assistance services. Contact AGA Service Company at 800-284-8300 or 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233 or customerservice@allianzassistance.com.