College: Living, Laughing and Learning

http://www.vanderbilt.edu/expandedaidprogram/

So Vandy has a new financial aid policy that basically turns all loans that students qualify for into grants, so no one will have to pay debt after leaving school.

That is CRAZY.

This is an interesting move.  It’s going to require a lot of fundraising.  I am happy for the students that this helps!  This is going to help them out so much.

In our materialistic world, there is TOO MUCH of a focus on money and possessions and not enough focus on the intangibles:  are you happy?  did you reach your goals?  did you make a difference where you wanted to?  did you follow your heart?

Sometimes, if an industry doesn’t look great financially, people get out of it.  For instance, we are in dire need of great teachers, but they are so undervalued in the market, so the financial incentives are low.  However, from what I’ve seen, people who are teachers want to be where they are.  They are happy individuals who derive meaning form helping students.  I appreciate that, and so do many, many others.

So by alleviating this financial burden, it will grant many students the freedom to follow their dreams.

AND I’M STOKED FOR ESPN GAME DAY!! WOOT!!

Exams, midterms, tests, quizzes, papers, projects…

these words cause stress.  These events cause stress.  Yes, Vanderbilt is a top 20 school.  It is rigorous.  However, success always takes hard work and determination.  As I’ve stated before, I don’t believe success can be measured by words.  Success is measured by an internal feeling to the question: Did I do the best I can?  If the answer is yes, you’ll feel okay; you’ll feel like you’ve done everything in your power and therefore, nothing can be changed.

Before a major grade, prepare yourself.  Take it day by day.  Start studying a few days before so you don’t have to review all the tons of pages of readings the night before.  Study smart.  Pick a nice, quiet place to study, preferably a place where you don’t know anyone, so nobody can distract you.  Don’t stress out!  Oftentimes, stressing out can cause you to miss something because you’re not reading as well or as calm and collected in interpreting the questions.

And remember, college is about more than just grades, grades, and more grades.  It’s about have a good time!

One more thing:  ESPN College Game Day==> VANDY V. AUBURN!!! :] Oct. 4th, I’m so PUMPED!