young african american woman with glasses looking thoughtfully with a book

When most students think about planning for a successful semester, they immediately think: "that's a lot of work."

While we agree, it's that kind of work that ends up paying off at the end. Bet...

When most students think about planning for a successful semester, they immediately think: “that’s a lot of work.”

While we agree, it’s that kind of work that ends up paying off at the end. Between assignments, breaks, and so many other things, it’s important to consider them all when you’re planning your semester.

In fact, a bit of planning can help make the rest of the semester a success! If you’ve already ended a semester successfully, or you want to ensure you get off to a good start, here’s how.

Here’s how to plan a successful semester:

#1: Put It In Writing:

When you are planning your semester, you need to put it in writing. It doesn’t matter if you use a student-specific planner, agenda, a regular old calendar or a digital calendar or planner. The important thing is to write down your plans.

#2: Annotate All Due Dates And Big Events:

Make sure that you annotate all due dates and big events for the upcoming semester. One extra tip that may help you is to use a different color to signal the due dates. This will allow you to know what’s coming at a glance.

#3: Break Your Work Into Daily Tasks:

One of the main benefits of planning your semester is that you can schedule your own time. If you have to deliver an assignment in one month, you don’t need to start working on it right now.

But you don’t need to leave all the work to be done on the previous day of the due date. When you plan your semester, you can easily dedicate a couple of hours each day, among your daily tasks, to work on this assignment. Just make sure that you have enough time to complete every task without rushing.

#4: Be Flexible:

The truth is that no matter if you create the best plan in the world for the next semester, there will always be distractions and interruptions. You want to reduce stress in college with ease. So, it’s always better to allocate more time than the one you believe you need for each task.

#5: Learn To Say “No”:

Sometimes, we just get carried away. You may like to paint and join a painting class and you also like to dance and you join a dancing class. Before you know it, you won’t have the time to do it all.

So, be sure to prioritize. Before you commit to any other extra activity, make sure that you really have the time and energy that it takes.

#6: Don’t Forget To Say “Yes” Too:

While getting good grades should always be a priority for you, your personal life is also important. So, if you feel like going out for dinner, watch your favorite television show or simply spend time with your friends, don’t feel guilty.

These are the kinds of activities that will allow you to relax and get the extra motivation to keep working hard. We all need a break sometimes.

#7: Keep Monitoring:

Planning your semester is incredibly important. However, you need to ensure that you monitor how you’re actually doing and if your grades are at the level that you were expecting.

By looking at what you have done and the results that you get, you’ll be able to adapt your behavior to improve your efficiency and productivity!

Scholarships

June 25, 2019

Where to Find Part-Time Jobs That Offer College Help

Part-time work for college students can offer a lot of opportunities. But not all jobs are created equally. If you're considering taking on part-time work to support your education, consider Read more

Part-time work for college students can offer a lot of opportunities. But not all jobs are created equally. If you’re considering taking on part-time work to support your education, consider jobs that offer college benefits such as scholarships and tuition reimbursements.

Part-time jobs for college students can help you not only get some work experience—they can be a great aid in lowering your college debt.

The Best Part-Time Jobs For College Students

#1: Starbucks:

You should definitely consider Starbucks if you’re looking for the best part-time jobs for college students. After all, the company has a partnership with Arizona State University where you can get full, 100% tuition reimbursement for your online Bachelor’s degree.

#2: Home Depot:

When you’re looking to earn money for college, Home Depot is another solution. The company allows up to $1,500 in tuition reimbursement per calendar year to their part-time employees. While tuition is only applicable to the degrees that are related to Home Depot in some way, you can use the reimbursement for undergraduate, graduate or technical degrees.

#3: UPS:

This popular company also has one of the best part-time jobs for college students. In fact, you can earn up to $5,250 per calendar year towards your education costs.

#4: Bank of America:

When you are getting a degree in an area related to banking or finance business, you can get a reimbursement of up to $5,250 per calendar year. In order to participate in their program, you need to be a part-time employee for 6 months and work at least 20 hours a week.

#5: McDonald’s:

McDonald’s has some impressive educational benefits for restaurant managers and crew members. The Archways to Opportunity is McDonald’s program that has partnerships with some selected colleges to offer employees a bigger discount on tuition. The company also has management curriculum and scholarships available.

#6: Publix:

Publix offers part-time employees up to $3,400 per calendar year for college reimbursement. This can be applied towards community college, technical college, and individual courses. You just need to work with the company for at least 6 months and a minimum of 10 hours a week to qualify.

#7: Chick-Fil-A:

Chick-Fil-A is another good option for college jobs. As an employee, you could earn a college scholarship up to $25,000. The company also offers smaller scholarship opportunities of $2,500. To ensure that you can apply, you need to have your high school diploma and should have also applied for college.

Going back to school as an adult college student can be a real challenge. We’re here to help! At stressfreedegree.com, you’ll get help with classwork from discreet professionals.

Back to School Tips

June 20, 2019

Diva Spotlight: Briana Williams, Master’s of Science in Community Development

While most college students need student loans in order to get their degree, this isn't the only obstacle. The truth is that life is never easy and at Back to School Divas we like to remind you that pursuing your dreams is 100% worth...

While most college students need student loans in order to get their degree, this isn’t the only obstacle. The truth is that life is never easy and at Back to School Divas we like to remind you that pursuing your dreams is 100% worth the challenge.

This is exactly what Briana Williams did. In May 2019, Briana walked across the stage after earning herMaster’s of Science in Community Development. But why is Briana any different?

Briana is a college graduate who fiercely followed her dreams. This believer in God took all her strength and succeeded.

“I’m celebrating GOD’s accomplishment – for the glory belongs to him! Praise God for favor! In spite of calamity (divorce, being a single parent of two toddlers, and more to name a fed). I’m on my way to my destiny because the favor and grace of God is on my life! #MASTEREDit #THANKyouMASTER”

-Briana Williams

Briana was able to get her Master’s of Science in Community Development even though, most of the time, she was raising young kids a single parent. For all parents out there, you know this isn’t an easy task, especially when you need to focus on so many things at once

We’re so proud to feature Briana as our June Back to Divas Featured Diva! After all, this adult college student used her faith in God and transformed it into something positive for both her and her family. With a college degree, she now has a better chance of raising her toddlers the way she believes is best as she continues on her path to continuous success.

Graduating from college takes a lot of time and effort. When you’re a single parent who needs to provide for two toddlers, life can get a lot more complicated. However, Briana saw this as a challenge. She had to do it. For her sake and for the sake of her young kids. And with her faith, she managed to do it.

No matter the challenge, you CAN make a better life for yourself by going back to school. Leave Briana a comment below and share your journey with us!

Join the Back to School Divas Facebook Group for a chance to be featured!

June 12, 2019

Fun & Affordable Things to Do with Kids This Summer

With another school year almost ending, this is a difficult time for most parents. After all, how can you keep your kids entertained and having fun for the entire summer?

While you...

With another school year almost ending, this is a difficult time for most parents. After all, how can you keep your kids entertained and having fun for the entire summer?

While you may need to be at work or taking summer college classes, kids need their own affordable things to do, activities that keep them distracted and having fun after a whole year at school. However, at the same time, you don’t want to spend a lot of money. And we all know how those summer camps can be pretty expensive.

You’re looking for the best summer activities that you can do with your kids that are not only fun but free (or at least cheap). The main goal is to keep them active and engaged in an activity that’s fun for them. Besides, believe it or not, these will be the best memories your kids will have from their childhood when they grow up.

So, let’s get started.

Affordable Things to Do with the Kids This Summer

– Go hiking or for a nature walk: Kids love being in contact with Nature and it’s great for them as well as for you. You can even take the chance and do a picnic. In case you have more than one day, you can go camping with kids.

– Visit a local farm or an aquarium: Spend an afternoon teaching your kids know where their food comes from. The experience of visiting a farm and helping with plants and animals is absolutely amazing (especially for suburbanites).

– Visit a fire station: As a parent, you know that it’s important that your kids know who can help them when they are in danger. Plan a visit to a fire station to visit with firefighters, tour the station, and inspire heroism in your little ones.

– Pool day: What can be more fun for kids than spending the day at the pool? Look for free neighborhood pools, YMCA pools, or other community center pools for affordable swimming pool options.

– Scavenger hunt: Kids tend to love this activity and can be a lot of fun for the entire family. Look on Pinterest for scavenger hunt ideas, or make up your own with fun items in your home.

– Make stovetop s’mores: If it’s just too hot outside, you can simply stay at home and make stovetop s’mores.

– Pillow fight: Get a little spontaneous with a pillow fight. You can take this one step further by staging a sleepover with kids, laying with them until they fall asleep. It’ll make for a fun memory with your kids, and will be heartwarming for you, too.

– Make homemade ice cream: There’s nothing that feels as good as a good ice cream during the summer. To make it even better, make a delicious homemade ice cream at home with the kids.

– Go mini golfing: Mini golf is always a fun summer night activity with your kids. Look for fun themed golf courses like glow in the dark golf, or courses at affordable local theme parks.

– Water balloon fight: Keep fun close to home with a friendly water balloon fight in the yard—perfect for neighborhoods with lots of kids.

– Build a cardboard box castle: Kids love to build their own castle. Help them build it and leave the waiting and decor to your little experts.

While all these free summer activities are great options for the family, there are times when you just need some grownup time. Help your kids discover better ways to entertain themselves outside of familiar screens.

Fun Summer Activities for Kids

– Play hide and seek

– Play Simon Says

– Make paper airplanes and create a contest around it

– Hula hoop

– Play Would You Rather

– Build with legos

– Read a book

– Play a card game

– Get creative with arts and crafts

– Make a blanket fort

– Walk the neighbor’s dog

– Do a puzzle

– Water play in the backyard

– Make paper bag puppets

– Play an instrument

– Jump rope games

Love these free summer activities? Join the Back to School Divas Facebook group, and share your favorite summer activities!

African American woman being paid at juice bar checkout

Money Management

June 5, 2019

Special Student Discounts to Take Advantage of

It's not easy to be a student nowadays. Between student loans and high tuition rates, you’re probably wondering what else you can do to Read more

It’s not easy to be a student nowadays. Between student loans and high tuition rates, you’re probably wondering what else you can do to save money. After all, it seems that you just can’t cut anywhere else.

The truth is, there are many different student discounts that you can take advantage of.

Here are some of the best student discounts that you can take advantage of:

#1: Technology And Electronics Discounts

Students need to have a wide range of gadgets that allows you not only to study and make your assignments as well as to stay connected with their friends.

So, you’ll be glad to know that you will be able to save a lot of money with several special online discounts.

Some tech brands that offer student discounts:

ADOBE: You can save more than 60% in your Adobe membership.

APPLE: If you’re already in college, you can take advantage of the 5% student discount the company offers for most Apple products. While this may not seem much, you can end up saving up to $200.

AMAZON: With its Prime Student program, you can take advantage of a 6-month trial that includes unlimited photo storage with Prime photos, unlimited streaming of Prime movies and TV shows, free shipping on more than 50 million products, among others.

BEST BUY: This store also offers special deals for students.

GOPRO: Just use the 20% off on all cameras and accessories when you shop online.

NEWEGG: Just check the Newegg Student Store and get online discounts on wireless routers, portable hard drives, desktops, textbooks, and more.

SPOTIFY: If you like to listen to your favorite songs, then take advantage of your special discount as a student.

#2: News & Publications Discounts:

As a college student, you want to ensure that you stay on top of what’s happening in the world. If you’re considering signing up for a magazine or a newspaper for personal or school use, check out the following publications that offer you the best student discounts:

BLOOMBERG BUSINESSWEEK: By signing up for 12 weeks at $12, you’ll have unlimited digital access as well as you will get the weekly delivery of the print magazine.

THE ECONOMIST: Save nearly 60% and access the weekly edition of Economist.com as well as full access to its app.

THE NEW YORK TIMES: Get access during 4 weeks on all 3 subscription packages they have.

THE WASHINGTON POST: With this publication, you will be able to save up to 50%. Just pay $1 for the first 4 weeks, and then $5 each month for unlimited access.

THE WALL STREET JOURNAL: You can benefit from a special discount of 50% on the annual rate.

#3: Cell Phone Plan Discounts

We know that you just can’t live without your phone. However, it’s important that you have a good plan. The good news is that some providers are already making available some student discounts. The companies offering these special discounts include Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless, among others.

#4: Travel Discounts

Traveling or simply moving around campus doesn’t need to be expensive anymore. The truth is that there are already many different companies providing student discounts. So, just ensure that you always have your Sudent ID with you just in case.

Some of the companies that already have these special prices for students include:

COACH USA: You can save up to 15% on bus tickets.

MEGABUS: Just book your ticket and take advantage of their online discounts. You’ll be saving $3 in any ticket.

GETUPSIDE: If you’re traveling by car, you can take advantage of this discount. You can save up to 25c/gal on gas.

#5: Clothing And Accessories Discounts

While some brands only have discounts on their physical stores, there are others where you can take advantage of their online discounts as well.

Some of the best stores where you can save a lot include:

CALVIN KLEIN: You can get 10% off your in-store purchases.

ASOS: You can get a 10% discount just by filling out a short form.

JO-ANN FABRIC AND CRAFT STORES: Get 10% off every purchase of craft supplies.

CLUB MONACO: You can either benefit from a 20% discount in-store as well as online.

POLO RALPH LAUREN FACTORY STORE: Get 15% off in in-store purchases.

young woman smiling calculating expenses

Money Management

May 30, 2019

10 New Ways to Save Money Without Trying

Saving money is a lot harder than spending it. The reality is that a lot of people struggle to save money. Yet, you know that you need to do it.

While we understand that you may not be in ...

Saving money is a lot harder than spending it. The reality is that a lot of people struggle to save money. Yet, you know that you need to do it.

While we understand that you may not be in the best position to save money at all, the truth is that there are some money saving tips that you can use.

10 New Ways To Save Money Without Trying

#1: Pay Yourself:

If in the past you used to hire someone to treat your lawn and if you used to get to the stylist to cut your hair and you now do all these on your own, you need to be paid for your work. While you may not get the same amount that you used to pay for these services, you should get a percentage of it.

#2: Write A List Before You Go Shopping And Stick To It:

One of the best tricks to save money at the grocery store is to go with a list of all you need and sticking to it. In addition, you can also take advantage of a cash back rewards card that usually gives bonus cash at grocery stores.

#3: Save Your $1 Bills:

When you are looking to put money in savings, you should consider saving your $1 bills. At the end of each day, you should check your wallet and put the $1 bills aside. Just put them aside for one month and then deposit the funds in your savings account.

#4: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle:

There are a lot of things that you can do to save money. The truth is that we keep buying things that we don’t even need. In addition, we tend to get rid of many that could still be used.

So, a better way of thinking and that can help you save money is by considering reducing, reusing, and recycling.

#5: Re-Evaluate Your Hobbies:

While it is a great idea to have hobbies and interests, these can easily add up to the bills each month. So, you should think about them and only indulge in a hobby once or twice a year.

#6: Use Bank Savings Plans:

One of the best money saving tips that we can give you is to take advantage of your banking’s institution’s savings plans. The reality is that most credit unions and banks are offering great deals to transfer money from your checking account to your savings account, for example. So, make sure that you check these ones out.

#7: Don’t Spend A Lot Of Money On Children’s Entertainment:

Children love a toy for five minutes and then they dump it and they don’t even care about it. No matter if it was cheap or expensive. So, you should take this opportunity to save money.

#8: Negotiate Rates With Your Credit Card Company:

In case you notice that you’re paying high fees for your credit cards, then you should make sure that you negotiate them with the card issuer.

#9: Make Savings Automatic:

One of the best alternatives to put money in savings is to make savings automatic. All you need to do is to schedule small automatic transfers directly into your savings account.

#10: Use The Digit App:

Similar to making your savings automatic, you can also use the Digit App. This app will connect to your checking account and it will transfer money (between $5 and $50 ) from here to your secure Digit savings account.

May 23, 2019May 24, 2019

50 Productive Things to Do on a Long Weekend

It's not very common to have a long weekend. From work holidays to Monday Mental Health days, taking a long weekend can be a great opportunity to get stuff done. So, you want to make sure that you make the most out it, Diva.

&nb...

It’s not very common to have a long weekend. From work holidays to Monday Mental Health days, taking a long weekend can be a great opportunity to get stuff done. So, you want to make sure that you make the most out it, Diva.

Productive Things To Do

As you can imagine, both indoors and outdoors, there are always things to do. Nevertheless, you also want to ensure that you should some activities that you can do with your kids as well.

50 Ways To Increase Productivity On A Three Day Weekend

#1: Visit The Family:

In case your family lives a bit far away and you don’t have a chance to see them often, a three day weekend is perfect.

#2: Go Shopping:

There are always things that you need to buy for your home and for your kids. So, you can take some time to go to the shopping mall.

#3: Read A Book:

One of the best pleasures in life is enjoying a good book. So, why not take the afternoon off and read a book for your kids? You can even leave the end of the story out and make them imagine it.

#4: Visit A Museum:

There are always museums that don’t charge an entry fee, especially if you’re taking kids. And even if they do, this is a great option when the weather is bad. Besides, learning new things is always interesting.

#5: Watch A Movie At Home:

If you’re feeling a bit lazy and you don’t feel like getting out of the house, you can rent a movie to watch with your kids. It can be an animation movie or an old one.

#6: Do Some Gardening:

Gardening is a great hobby and you have so much space in your backyard that you aren’t really using. So, why not grow some vegetables or fruits? In case you live in an apartment, you can also do it. Just get some vases and plant some herbs.

#7: Day Trip To State And National Parks:

If you want to spend the day out with your family, you have the option to do a day trip to state and national parks. You will all be able to enjoy the fresh air and be in contact with nature. It can be pretty refreshing and stress relieving.

#8: The Zoo:

Kids love going to the zoo and most adults love it as well. So, you can definitely use a day (or an afternoon) and check the new animals at the zoo.

#9: Take On A Project At Home:

Remember that project that you keep postponing because you don’t have the time to do it? Well, just take this long weekend to take care of it. You can get your kids involved as well. While you may not be able to complete it as fast, it’s a great opportunity for kids to see how you use tools and try them out for themselves as well.

#10: Have a Board Game Day:

In case your kids are always spending their long weekends glued to their computer playing games, why can’t you host the board game day? Most young kids have never even tried board games and they can be quite fun. Just choose one of the classics (depending on your kid’s age) such as Battleship, Cluedo, Scrabble, Risk, Snakes and Ladders, Trivial Pursuit, Monopoly, checkers or Chess.

#11: Head To The Playground:

Do you remember the last time you took your child to the playground? Well, he pretty sure misses it. So, just make him a surprise.

#12: Host A Dinner Party:

Most people believe that spending a good day with the family deserves a celebration. So, instead of going out to dinner or ordering food, you can host a special dinner party just for the family. Just think about something that each one of the family members loves and ask kids to help you out.

#13: Make A Paper Fortune Teller:

Besides spending quality time with your kids, you will be also developing their skills. Besides, you will find it incredibly funny.

#14: The Movies

In case your kids mentioned a movie they would like to see, just make them a surprise. Don’t forget about the popcorn.

#15: Visit A Local Farm:

When the weather is good, you should consider taking your kids to a local farm. Besides the contact with nature, they will be able to learn a lot about animals and plants.

#16: Watch Wildlife:

If you like to be in contact with nature and you usually don’t have the time to do it, just grab your kids and head onto the countryside or to a local park.

#17: Play Pen And Pencil Games:

There are many classic games that can be played with a simple pen and a piece of paper. Besides, they can be a lot of fun. Some ideas include Battle Ships, Hang Man, and even Noughts and Crosses.

#18: The Arcade:

If you decided to take a walk with your family but it’s too much hot, why not visit the arcade? Your kids are going to love it and so will you.

#19: Bake A New Cookie Recipe:

Anxious to try out that new cookie recipe your friend gave you? Take the three long weekend and the help of your kids and head to the kitchen.

#20: Play the Sentence Game:

This is a great game to be played by the entire family. You just need to write a sentence in a piece of paper and fold it. Then, supply one word of the next line for the following person. You won’t believe the stories that will come up.

#21: Make Finger Puppets:

If you have young kids, making finger puppets is a great idea. In the end, you can even write down a story or two.

#22: Ten-Pin Bowling:

In case the three day weekend is in winter or it is raining outside, you need to think about something you can do indoors. So, why not take the family for a ten-pin bowling?

#23: Origami:

Origami is a perfect activity to do with kids when the weather is not inviting to go outside.

#24: Go Swimming:

In case the weather is good, just find the nearest leisure center.

#25: Arts & Crafts:

If your walls are a bit empty at home, why not taking this long weekend to create some painting with the kids. You can then frame them and display them.

#26: Laser Tag:

When you are looking to have fun as a family, you need to try out laser tag. Most venues rent the equipment so you just need to get ready for action.

#27: Play Hide and Seek:

In case you’re just in the mood to be a child again, why not play the “old” hide and seek?

#28: Indoor Sports:

While most sports need to be done outdoors, you also have plenty of indoor sports. Just find one that suits you. It’s always a good time to exercise.

#29: Create A Time Capsule:

One neat idea that you can convert into reality in a long weekend is to create a family time capsule. Then, bury it in your yard.

#30: Play Indoor Volleyball:

When you want to keep moving and don’t know what to do, just grab a balloon and play indoor volleyball.

#31: Go To An Adventure Park:

An adventure park is a great way to exercise and to spend time with the family as well. You’ll be able to enjoy a wide range of challenges without any phones nearby.

#32: Print Your Best Photos:

A perfect craft to do with your kids. Just choose the best photos and make a beautiful collage with their help.

#33: Build A Fort:

No matter if you build one in the backyard or in the living room, your kids are going to love it. And you will too.

The chances are you have a duvet or sofa. Cardboard boxes are also useful. Construct a mini-fort for yourself and your family and enjoy being childish for a day.

#34: A Picnic In The Park:

When the weather is great, it just feels like you need to be outside. So, why not have a picnic in the park?

#35: Check Out The Stars:

One of the things that you can also do at night is to simply enjoy the stars. Buy a telescope and take the time to teach your kids how it works and tell them what they are observing.

#36: Go To An Amusement Park:

There are many different amusement parks so you just need to pick the best one for the entire family to have fun. It will be a blast.

#37: Build A Garden Labyrinth:

When you are looking to improve your kid’s skills, you should try to create a garden labyrinth. All you need is unmowed grass, twigs, and stones.

#38: Make Bubbles:

Making bubbles can be extremely fun. Besides, you just need to use some household products that you already have at home.

#39: Go To A Play:

When you are raising a child, it is important to give her the space to play, have fun but also to show her as many different things as you can. And going to a play is one of those activities.

#40: Go Camping:

If you love nature, then there is nothing like a good camping trip to reconnect.

#41: Go On A Road Trip:

The best thing about a road trip is that you don’t even need to have a specific destination. Just think whether you prefer to head towards the country or towards the beach. Just take the time to breathe, to relieve the stress, and to enjoy yourself.

#42: Ride A Bike:

Riding a bike can be incredibly fun and is great for your body and mind.

#43: Create a Dress-Up Box:

In case it’s raining, you can take the day to check all the wardrobes at home. Just pick the shoes, hats, dresses, and everything that you don’t wear anymore and take them to a thrift shop.

#44: Go For A Hike:

A good hike is perfect to reconnect with your kids and get some exercise your body will appreciate. Besides, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful surrounding environment.

#45: Be A Card Shark

Just choose to turn off the TV and the computer and head onto a classic card game.

#46: Go For A Walk:

Sometimes, a simple walk is revigorating.

#47: See An Outdoor Art Installation:

In case you like art and the weather is good, you don’t want to go to an art museum. However, you can definitely opt to see an outdoor art installation.

#48: Go To The Beach:

Soaking up the sun and swimming in a beautiful sea is a great way to take advantage of a long weekend.

#49: Frame It:

While you’re at the beach, just gather some beach glass, seashells, pebbles, sticks, and create a beautiful frame.

#50: Get To Know Your City:

While you keep moving around your city, most people don’t even know if. So, just head to the places that tourists usually see.

Want to get really productive over your long weekend? Download the Back to School Divas planner to put together to-do lists, manager your projects, make grocery lists and more!

confident woman holding books while standing in front of college classroom

May 15, 2019May 24, 2019

10 Tips to End the Semester Strong

Are you starting to feel like you might break under the pressure of final papers and exams? Going back to school (especially college) after a long time away is tough! Your brain is in for some real mental exercise, and you need to take care of yourself as you cross that finish line. Here are 10 tips to end the semester strong. You got this!

Take a deep breath

If you’re starting to feel overwhelmed before you even start, don’t worry. Take a step back, take a deep breath, and refocus. It’s easy to feel like it’s all crashing down but starting is the hardest part. You can do this!

Get organized

After you’ve refocused your attention, get organized. A lot of people try to multitask and never get anything done. Don’t let this happen to you. Create a detailed study plan and stick to it so that your organization can guide you through the craziness of finals.

Avoid procrastination

When you have two weeks before anything is due, it’s natural to think that you have “plenty of time.” Yet, when you only have two days left, you’ll start to feel panicked. Avoid procrastinating and avoid panic. It’s as simple as that. Devote a few hours daily to the tasks you need to do, and you’ll get them done in no time.

Eliminate distractions

You hate to hear it, but social media is a distraction. Do you find that you’re on Instagram or Facebook a lot when you should be studying? Delete the apps for finals week! It might be painful now, but you’ll be much more productive. Plus, think of how much of a treat it’ll be when you can redownload them.

Remember self-care

Don’t skip your yoga class, your 8 hours of sleep or hanging out with friends when you really need it. Remember that self-care should extend into finals too. You need to have balance even when things get tough. Take care of yourself and everything else will fall into place.

Reach out

Reach out to professors, to peers, to your loved ones or to anyone else that can help you! When we feel like we can’t do something, we often turn inward and focus on how helpless we feel. Reaching out to others for help can show you that you’re doing exactly what you need to be doing and give you the boost that you need.

Study with a friend

Do you find you have trouble just getting to the library? Get an accountability partner! This person can keep you on track and devoted to what you need to be doing. And it’s less miserable when you do it with someone you want to spend time with anyway.

Prioritize

If you find you’re still overcome (even with your study plan), don’t be afraid to prioritize! What assignment is due first? Focus on that! Work on the other larger assignments as you go as well. Pace yourself and prioritize so that you feel comfortable with your workload.

Give yourself rewards

Money can’t buy happiness, but have you ever eaten chocolate in the library? It’s pretty close, right? Don’t be afraid to splurge a little and treat yo self!

Be positive

School can be tough, but attitude is everything. If you think of it like it’s a chore, it’ll feel like one. You’re earning a degree, and that’s incredible. Stay positive, don’t complain, and you’ll feel that much better throughout the process!

Want even more tips? Join the Back to School Divas Facebook group! We’re more than 1,000 members strong—and full of great advice, joy, and support.

BTSD Community

May 8, 2019May 24, 2019

Diva Spotlight: Sheryl, BA Liberal Studies Class of 2019

We recently shared a post on our blog, Am I Too Old to go to Grad School? This post discussed how going to grad school at an older age can be more of an advantage than a disadvantage. The ability to draw from your personal life and work experiences ...

It takes courage to follow your dreams and go back to school, no matter your age. While it’s always great to get the stats and figures that explain how grad school students come in all ages, sometimes it is more powerful to put a face to it all.

Meet Sheryl. Sheryl is 62 years old and will be graduating with her BA in Liberal Studies with a minor in Human Human Development in May 2019.

A Degree Years in the Making

“I am finally completing my degree after 40 years of stops and starts.”

Sheryl has wanted to complete her studies for many years, but it always seemed as though it was not the right time.

“Marriage, health crisis, children, and just life, all caused many obstacles to completing my studies.”

So, when did she finally decide to go back to school?

After putting the last three of her children through college, she realized that this was the moment to finally follow the dream she’s always had of getting her BA in Liberal Studies. What we find most inspirational about Sheryl’s story is how she didn’t allow herself to give up.

Valuable Lessons for Every Diva

“My most valuable lesson is – It is never too late.”

The truth is, the average age of graduate students is 33 years, and one in five are over the age of 40.

If this is the case, if most grad students are over 30 years old, then why do we keep telling ourselves that we’ve “missed that boat”? Why do we keep pushing our dreams aside? Why do we keep making an agreement with society that a woman’s dreams and goals have an expiration date?

Our Back to School Diva, Sheryl, is living proof that as long as you’re alive, your dreams are still valid!

“This is one thing that I truly did for myself. I am proud and honored to be part of the class of 2019!”

After trying for four decades to get her degree, there had to be something that kept her going and believing that she will ultimately reach her goals.

“Philippians 4:13, ‘I can do all things through Christ’ and Jeremiah 29:11, ‘For I have plans for you to prosper.’”

She’s determined, strong, and believes that her career and educational dreams are valid at any age. Sheryl is the true definition of a Back to School Diva!

Her selflessness in taking care of her family and her resilience in going back to school and completing her degree at the age of 62 when many would have given up, makes us so proud. We hope this real-life story will help to inspire anyone else who may have doubts about whether it’s still possible.

We’re excited to feature Sheryl as our Featured Diva!

BTSD Community

May 2, 2019

Graduation Cap Designs That Will End College with a Bang

Is your college graduation cap going to be like everybody else’s? After spending the last few years in college, you deserve better than that. Your graduation day is significant because it means you’re closer to your Read more

Is your college graduation cap going to be like everybody else’s?

After spending the last few years in college, you deserve better than that.

Your graduation day is significant because it means you’re closer to your career aspirations. After all those sleepless nights studying and working on assignments that felt like they were never going to end, you made it through in one piece!

Basic prepping for the day involves getting the perfect dress, your hair and makeup done, and of course, your gown and cap ready.

But wouldn’t it be great to add a little something special to your cap as well?

What’s the Significance of a Unique Graduation Cap Design?

Five words – Stand. Out. From. The. Crowd.

Back in the 14^thand 15^thcenturies, the graduation cap (sometimes called a mortarboard) was worn mostly by artists and studentsand it represented intelligence and superiority. They were a symbol of honor.

And nowadays? It is still an honor to wear your gown and cap in front of your peers. This is a special moment not only for you but for your loved ones as well. Some of them might have even witnessed you pushing through those sleepless nights.

It only makes sense then to truly honor this day. And of course, one way to honor it is with your look.

The best part about designing your graduation cap is that you can have fun with it. You can put in flowers, your favorite quotes, your moto…let your imagination go wild!

Before you start working on those designs, I think it’s important to give you a few pointers – just to make sure that you go about this the right way.

The Dos and Don’ts on Graduation Cap Designs

Do: Let it Represent Who You Are

We’re starting with this point because it’s important that the design represents you. Your friend’s design may be great and all, but is it who YOU are? And don’t worry about following a certain trend if that trend doesn’t connect to your personality.

Thanks to our smartphones and the internet, this significant moment will be documented and remembered forever. So, you want to make sure that whatever design you decide on truly represents who you are. You don’t want to look back on such an important day and regret what you wore.

Do: Make It Meaningful

Remember that your graduation day is not only about the past few years in college, but also about the future you have ahead of you. So, when you’re deciding on the decorations or designs, make it meaningful, something worth framing and placing next to your diploma or degree.

Don’t: Do It the Night Before

Oh, ladies. This is a major no-no. You’re bound to have major jitters for your graduation. The last thing you want to do is put more pressure on yourself by designing the cap the night before! So, maybe you’re busy and have a ton of things to do before the big day? What you want to do then is to stock up on your decorations well in advance and then little by little, start designing your cap.

Don’t: Include Many Different Themes

You love your family. You love your school. You love your future career. And you love your dog. Surely, it’s okay to include all these representations of what you love on your college graduation cap?

One word – no. The best designs have one central theme. Doing too much will end up looking like you tried too much. Pick the one message you really want to convey and go for it.

Now that you’re clear on the do’s and don’ts, let’s get into some fun college graduation cap designs to give you some inspiration.

Source: Design Press

Whether she had all the support she needed, or she didn’t, this graduate kept it moving and in the end, it all paid off.

Source: Pinterest

Going back to school isn’t easy. You’ll go through a lot of hardships and making it to the other side will at times feel impossible. But you keep at it. You study. You take those long nights. You do what you have to do – You take care of business!

first in the family tree to receive a college degree graduation cap — first generation college grad | graduation cap design | grad cap – My Blog

Source: Pinterest

If you’re a first-generation college grad, this moment is not only yours. This is for your whole family, including your ancestors. You’ve made everyone proud and can wear your cap to show off this pride.

Source: Pinterest

This one’s obviously dedicated to the Beyhive. Maybe Beyonce was her inspiration. Maybe she used to listen to her music when studying?

Source: Pinterest

This one’s definitely one of my favorites because every Back To School Divais a queen. No matter what you’ve been through, never forget that. You should wear your cap-crown proudly.

Source: Teen Vogue

This a quote from Beyonce’s “formation” song. Great quote to live by. Stay gracious. Stay a diva.

Source: Pinterest

This is definitely for the ladies out there with a good sense of humor. In college, you will learn a lot of things. Not just in class, but about life in general. Let’s hope you remember it all…or at least, most of it.

Source: Texas State University

There’s a certain energy that fills the air on graduation day. That excitement has a lot to do with the fact that you’re now closer to your career aspirations. Take in this moment. Be present while also looking ahead at the wonderful future you have ahead of you.

Source: Pinterest

Okay, this may be a little funny, but have you ever had a moment where you feel like you just don’t know what you’re doing? Well, keep pushing until you do!

Source: Shutterfly

Sometimes, all the motivation you’ll need is knowing that there’s a higher power looking over you, guiding and protecting you. If you believe that a higher power helped you get this far, why not proudly display it on your cap?

Source: Pinterest

We’ve all heard about the growing student loan debt. Finances are part of the reason why so many people end up either dropping out of college, or not going at all. That’s why I’m really passionate about sharing scholarship tipswith you divas.

Source: Pinterest

Okay, so maybe this Diva didn’t have the best of times in college?

There a plenty more fun and exciting graduation cap designs that will help you end college with a bang. Hope that these pics gave you some inspiration.

Whatever design you decide on, make sure that it’s uniquely you. Make sure that it’s one fit for the diva you are.