#may everyone who's currently academically challenged see this

[frenchiepal]

Hello!

You're gonna do great with your thesis! You are very clever, studious, hard-working and diligent little cookie! You're gonna do great!

Everything else is just your doubts and fear speaking. Ignore them. They are not the best advisors anyway.

I am rooting for you! ٩(๑･ิᴗ･ิ)۶

P.S. I love your blog! Hope you have a great day :)

i -

dear anon thank you so much for your kind message 🤧💖💖💖 you're too cute! needed this encouragement tbh <33

glad you like my blog! 🥹🫂

[politicalprof]

In which I "write" an editorial on Trump for the New York Times:

I asked ChatGPT to "write an editorial in the style of the New York Times explaining why people in a diner in Columbia, Missouri like Donald Trump." This is its nearly-instantaneous reply.

ChatGPT:

Title: The Trump Appeal in Columbia, Missouri: Unpacking the Allure in the Heartland

In the heartland of Columbia, Missouri, where amber waves of grain stretch as far as the eye can see and the pulse of America beats strong, there exists a palpable affinity for Donald Trump that might seem perplexing to some coastal observers. As the clatter of plates and the aroma of coffee fill the air in the local diners, one cannot help but wonder: What is it about Trump that resonates so deeply in this part of the country?

Understanding the Trump appeal in Columbia requires peeling back the layers of socio-economic, cultural, and political dynamics that define the region. This landlocked state, often overshadowed by the coastal metropolises, has been experiencing its own unique set of challenges and opportunities. It is in this context that Trump's message found fertile ground.

First and foremost, the people of Columbia, like many others in the heartland, appreciate Trump's no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is approach. Trump's communication style, characterized by directness and simplicity, resonates with a demographic that values plain-speaking and authenticity. In a region where hard work and straightforwardness are cherished virtues, Trump's unfiltered rhetoric strikes a chord.

Moreover, the economic policies pursued during Trump's tenure left a positive mark on the local economy. The emphasis on deregulation and tax cuts played well with small business owners and farmers, the backbone of Columbia's community. For many, the Trump era symbolized an effort to unshackle businesses from bureaucratic constraints and stimulate economic growth from the bottom up.

Columbia's demographics also play a role in the Trump support phenomenon. This college town is not a monolithic entity; it comprises a diverse tapestry of residents, including conservative-leaning individuals who may feel marginalized in the more liberal academic environment. Trump's unapologetic conservatism appealed to these voters, who saw in him a champion of values they held dear.

Furthermore, Trump's promise to challenge the establishment resonated with those who felt left behind by the currents of change. In Columbia, as in many parts of Middle America, there is a sense that the political elite in Washington is out of touch with the everyday struggles of ordinary citizens. Trump's outsider status and pledge to "drain the swamp" garnered him support among those who sought a break from the status quo.

However, it's crucial to recognize that not everyone in Columbia supports Trump, and opinions on his presidency are as diverse as the city itself. The diner conversations may include both avid supporters and passionate critics, fostering a vibrant discourse that reflects the democratic spirit of the nation.

In conclusion, the Trump appeal in Columbia, Missouri, emerges from a complex interplay of economic factors, cultural values, and a desire for political change. As the nation grapples with its political divisions, understanding the reasons behind Trump's popularity in places like Columbia is essential for fostering empathy and constructive dialogue. Only by appreciating the diverse perspectives that shape our democracy can we hope to bridge the gaps that sometimes seem insurmountable.

[iaminfourthwing]

The Generals Daughter

Chapter IV

Xaden had the same thoughts in Battle Brief because his question was kind of based on mine. The fact that we were thinking the same way gives me a boost of confidence. Not that I would rely on his opinion but since he is the wingleader (and that for a reason) it kinda makes me happy.

“You two are seriously something else. You knew everything in history and in Battle Brief you were badass, especially you Arya.” Rhiannon says with an exciting glint in her brown eyes.

Clad in our sparring clothes (a short sleeved black shirt with tight trousers) we’re currently standing next to the sparring mat where Aurelie and Ridoc are fighting each other. Today is just assessment, that means we figure out where everyone’s skills lay, or if some even have skills.

Sawyer found his way next to me, Violet and Rhiannon on my other side. I quietly observe the match but it`s obvious that both of them already had their fair share of training in the past.

Violet and Rhiannon talk about helping each other out, Vi with academics, Rhiannon with sparring. Sawyer joins the conversation. “I could give tips to survive combat training.” Right, he already has some experience.

A tooth goes flying. Ew. “Enough!” Professor Emetterio shouts.

“What about you, Arya?” Rhiannon asks curious, her eyes not leaving the match in front of us but it's Violet who answers her. “She is good in everything. No, not just good. Magnificent.” I scoff as Emetterio calls out the next match. “Hardly. I may have some training, but there are always fighters who are more dangerous than I am” I say to Violet. A certain cadet from First Wing for example.

A tall, bulky guy from our wing, but second year from another squad stands on the mat. Since we have an uneven number of cadets in the squads someone will have to step into that match with him.

A sickening crack echoes through the hall as Jack Barlowe snaps the neck of his squad mate. Sweet “-Malek” Violet whispers horrified. He seriously is crazy, more than that. I don’t even want to know what goes on in that head, but what I know is, that he is dangerous. We really have to watch out, especially if he’s after Violet.

Emetterio scolds him but Barlowe obviously doesn`t give a flying fuck about what the professor has to say.

Emetterio turns back around and his eyes find mine. Shit. “Melgren, your turn.”

“That will be good. Don`t hurt him too much, Arya” Violet says with a exiciting grin while the others wish me good luck.

I walk over and step onto the mat. “Must be my lucky day to be the first one here to have a chance beating you up, Melgren. Are we allowed to break bones beside the neck?”

Is he- is he dumb?! Even though it's just assessment and Emetterio wants to see what we can do, it is not forbidden to break some bones. We just shouldn`t overdo it, that`s what the challenges are for. Best example of what we shouldn’t do is Barlowes match, if you can even call it a match. Was pretty one sided if you ask me.

Emetterio must think the same because he scoffs and but looks unimpressed at him. He explained the rules of assessment two times before.

I decide to rile him up a bit. “Why? You want to make an appointment with Nolon beforehand for you? You know, just in case.” The right corner of my mouth lifts up. A murmur goes through the crowd and a few laughter can be heard.

Pissed, he turns my way and takes his position and god help me – that must be the worst starting stance I have ever seen. “Don’t worry. I`ll make it short” I tease him further.

That gives him the rest and he storms towards me like an angry bull. I dodge a few of his punches which he clearly doesn`t like and only makes him madder. He may be tall and muscular, but he lacks agility. His movements are uncoordinated, he moves with pure strength, not with logic.

Okay, enough of that. Time to show what I can do.

He takes a step forward; I dodge his fist and punch him square in the face onto his nose. A sickening crunch can be heard, and with the way his nose is deformed, it is definitely broken, but I don`t care. I smack my fist into his jaw, hard, and he falls over, unconscious. HUH?!

Well fuck, that was not the plan. Did I really punch that hard? I stand over his unconscious figure, eyes wide open, mouth dropped in disbelief.

My stunned face finds Emetterios with a similar expression and notice how most of the other cadets stopped what they were doing. Violet looks proud (she saw me sparring more than just once), Rhiannon, Sawyer and the rest of our squad are wide eyed, speechless. “What the fuck?” Someone shouts.

“Well … I think he yields.” I say with a confused smirk on my face.

Emetterio scoffs but I can see the proud glint in his eyes. “Damn Melgren, that was certainly a new record but next time, please let them stay awake.” he says.

I step down from the mat and walk over to my squad. Aetos is the first one to greet me. “That was really good, Arya. I have to give you that, you seem to be an excellent fighter.” A compliment, from Dain Aetos? My face must show the confusion and amusement because he just rolls his eyes but doesn`t say anything else.

Ridoc gives me a fist bump. “That was incredible” Sawyer says, still in awe. “The way you were assessing him and kept your focus on the way he moved. You studied him during the fight and never lost control,” he adds. It was something my father taught me personally when he had the time (which wasn`t often) to fight with me.

“And the way it only took you two punches to knock him unconscious” Rhiannon grins. “Yeah, that was certainly not the plan. But you just have to know where you have to punch” I explain. “I can teach you, if you want.” All four of them nod their head furiously at my offer. Laughing I turn around and find Emetterios gaze fixed on Violet, Imogen Cardulo, a pink haired second year with the relic adorning her arm, next to him. Uh oh.

“Sorrengail, your turn.” Shit.

[berryblooo]

The Sumeru Akademiya, Astrology, and Mona's mysterious origins

(Originally posted on my Twitter on August 27 and 28, 2022.)

Sumeru is exciting for a multitude of reasons, but a major point for me is learning more about astrology from astrologist characters other than our beloved Mona Megistus!

One of the six Darshans of the Akademiya is Rtawahist, a department dedicated to Illuminationism, the study of the stars that includes astronomy and astrology.

The ex-Grand Sage of the Akademiya was the sage of Rtawahist, Azar. This means that an astrologist was leading the school. You would think this means astrology is a well-respected subject in not just the Akademiya, but Sumeru as a whole. However, it seems that isn't the case.

The elderly researcher (who refers to himself as an astrologist) implies that they are not being funded well, but that may be a recent thing. There's lots of talk of a secret project (that we now know was the Fatui working with the sages to make a god out of Scaramouche) diverting much attention and money away from other research projects.

Notably, Qushji mentions Hydromancy, the art of divining fate from the stars' reflection in water, which was developed by none other than Mona's master herself! In the 3.x Archon Quests thus far there's been no mention of Mona's master or Mona.

To my current in game knowledge, it's unclear how much, if at all, Mona and her master are affiliated with the Akademiya and astrologists in Rtawahist.

The newly released character, Layla, an Akademiya student from the Rtawahist Darshan and specializing in theoretical astrology, has this to say about Mona:

Mona Megistus, the Astrologist... Her astrology column in The Steambird is well-known among Rtawahist scholars. Her articles always cover super specialized topics, but can still be appreciated by non-academics. That's no easy feat... Huh? Her name seems to just roll off my tongue? Uh, that's just because... I have a lot of respect for... amazing people.

This seems to imply that Mona (and by extension her master) are independent of Rtawahist and the Akademiya.

Another researcher, Ashk, has a very interesting conversation with the Traveler. He implies that due to human ignorance and therefore error, the truth divined from the stars may be incorrect or misleading. When he asks the Traveler what they think, you receive a reward for choosing the second dialogue option, "Things might not be as they seem..."

What stuck out to me is the talk of ignorance in the nation of wisdom. Mona's cinematic from her mirage in Summer Fantasia described the crystal bird as, "born in wisdom, but trapped in ignorance".

Given that this event directly preceded Sumeru, I don't believe the choice in words is a coincidence.

The same researcher goes on to speak about research into constellation. It seems that in order to study those, one must have a Vision. It's still a bit unclear whether only Allogenes have constellations, or everyone does regardless.

Mona's line about constellations implies the former. This exchange is important because it plants the idea that destiny - the past in this instance - can be altered if someone is the one deciding it in the first place.

This is a reoccurring theme in the game - rewriting fate, challenging destiny. I'm very curious to see if Mona will make an appearance in the Sumeru storyline at some point, and if we'll finally learn more about her master and Hexenzirkel in turn. The set-up is there!

At the beginning of the Sumeru Archon Quest, Haypasia gives us our first introduction to the Rtawahist Darshan. She describes its goals as studing astrology, astronomy and the stars’ link to destiny, who then also try to connect with Irminsul to deepen their knowledge.

That sounds a lot like Hexenzirkel.

I've speculated about Mona's master and/or Hexenzirkel possibly being affiliated with the Akademiya. If her master were to have that connection, I wonder why Mona doesn't? We know next to nothing about Mona's origins or past.

We don't even know why she's studying astrology, how she met her master, and how Mona came to study under her. Mona is steeped in mystery, and that's how she's meant to be. Her character introduction on the Genshin Impact website describes her as "a mysterious astrologist".

Many people assume Mona is from Fontaine because she writes the column "All Things Astrological" for its famed newspaper, The Steambird, but we have no indication of where she came from. Is it Sumeru? Is that where she met her master and studied astrology?

Time will tell!

[theninthdoor]

jay || ideal type; tarot reading

disclaimer: in my Ideal Type readings, I look into what the person in question is currently (consciously and unconsciously) attracted to! it's not necessarily their perfect match or the one they will end up with.

✦ Impression (What is seen externally // Might not accuratelly represent the person):

cards: nine of cups, eight of pentacles (five of swords), chariot

Jay's ideal type gives off a very disciplined impression, first and foremost - that's what people would pick up on as soon as they laid eyes on them. They seem to be very career/study focused, and may take productivity and organization very seriously. We're talking detailed schedules; the best stationery one could find; never ending to-do lists; waking up at 5AM every day, followed by a very strict daily routine; etc. However, due to the seriousness with which they dedicate themselves to their professional/academic goals, there's also a feeling that this person can sometimes come off as a know-it-all. They might try to lecture others on how to do things, correct them in statements they think are inaccurate, and, perhaps, even nag them for wasting their time with nonsense activities that will not lead them anywhere in life (according to their standards). Even so, his ideal type is still an individual that people know they can always count on to get a job well executed, and to lead a team to victory. Everyone knows that if this person has a goal in mind, they won't give up until they have accomplished it!

✦ Personality:

cards: chariot, king of cups, star (two of pentacles)

Here we see the Chariot again, so, for sure, this is a person who's very driven and disciplined. They would not sit around and wait for people to get things done for them, but would instead do it themselves right away. Also due to that, Jay's ideal type is a great motivator for others around them. They are wise, emotionally intelligent and compassionate, so even if their observations of their loved ones' actions and decisions come off sounding a little harsh, they are still well intended and aimed to push them towards a better direction. The negative side of this would be when they become too forceful and fail to give people the freedom to do things at their own pace or decide things for themselves without their (his ideal type's) input. On the other hand, this is someone who can be very influential and sociable, and has no problem being the center of attention. They can have friends all of the place and often bring them all together and have them experience each other's cultures, inspired each other with their different personalities and lifestyles, etc. From this perspective, we can suppose that Jay's ideal type is overall a very cultured and extroverted person.

✦ What his ideal type should provide in a relationship:

cards: wheel of fortune (five of wands), knight of swords, two of cups

His ideal type should definitely bring some sort of challenge to his life. In that sense, he would like for them to provide him with experiences that he's not used to, so the relationship feels constantly new and exciting. The two of them may always be moving towards something bigger and more exciting every day, and constantly keep the wheels turning. Additionally, it feels like he would enjoy if his partner was a little rebellious, spontaneous and daring. In that sense, I think he would find a lot of inspiration in watching them move forward with their beliefs and goals unapolagetically; and even start taking the same approach with his own goals and ideas (specially if that was something that he had trouble with before). When it comes to their relationship itself, Jay would definitely love to be pursued by his ideal type and have them be the initiator in most things. Really, it just feels like he wants to be swept off his feet and taken on a wild ride! In spite of all of the action, though, he definitely still seeks a romantic and honest partner to whom he can open his heart to. So, without a doubt, there should be a considerable amount of affection and intimacy between them, as well as honesty, balance and respect. This could not be a relationship built solely on excitement and adventure, because, for Jay, tenderness and commitment also have to be present.

(Disclaimer: all readings are alleged and for entertainment purposes only.)

[maireadralph]

Entrapdak Fandom Events:

Okay I had some time to write and as you all should know by now I am at my happiest best when planning 1001 things. Right here’s some thoughts and ideas I had for some upcoming Fandom events  Thoughts, feedback and comments are always welcome - I just like throwing out many ideas and seeing what sticks!

Entrapdak Positivity Month:

I propose we move this event from the previous October date to mid January-Mid February. Same length but different month

Why these weird dates?

Those dates line up with Entrapta’s Birthday (Jan 24th) to Hordak’s Birthday (Feb 18th). 

These dates should allow our friends in the Southern Hemisphere (*waves from London*) to partake without having to stress about academic matters.  

These dates also allow people to work on their pieces over the Christmas and New Years Holiday period downtime.  

These dates should be free of anything Antis or Haters want to throw our direction as they wouldn’t run alongside other SPOP related art challenges (eg Catratober).  

These dates also allow us to have Valentine’s Day as a sneaky bonus 😉

While not murdering the October challenge completely I propose a mini Entrapdak Positivity Month for those that want it this year - an Entrapdak Positminity Month with 14 prompts (not yet written), for those that like an extra challenge can do the prompts for both a fic and a pic

Entrapdak Zine 4:

As those who have read the current issue may have noticed the deadline date has already been locked in for the next issue (thank you Past Me for being TURBO organised with those phone reminders). I’ve yet to write up the post for the next issue, set up the countdown timers or find a fitting theme but for the most part it’ll be the same as previous and out before Christmas just like Issue 2.

Entrapdak Secret Santa:

I’ve not noticed this event been done in my time here so I’m going to propose this as a possibly.

What is it:

A fun event where people sign up and are assigned a person to give a “gift” to. As this is Tumblr and Fandom may I suggest the gifts be a pic or a fic and sent digitially to the recipient via the Anon feature

How will it work?

People sign up during a period.  There will be a confirmation check-in deadline post which people can confirm to by either commenting or liking the post or sending a DM/chat message/anon message to me.  Those that fail to respond a week of the confirmation check-in post will be automatically dropped from the project.  

Those that confirm I’ll pair up randomly and only the Gifter and I will know who they are gifting to (if there is an odd number I’ll Gift to that person no questions asked). 

The Gifter sends the gift by a set deadline and it is their choice if they wish to be identified or want the work to be published publicly. 

If everything works to plan everyone who signed up with both send and receive one gift and if we’re really luckily the work will be shared with the whole fandom!

There is a risk that a Gifter might ghost their Giftee - that’s not cool, we need to be cool to each other please don’t do this 

I will have to look into the dates and planning but I think this could be a really fun thing to do especially if the fics are short little one shots, the pic are sweet little things and it could all be done during the Christmas and New Year Holiday period (or even beforehand 👀)

[vanillavelvet13-blog]

How to Study More Effectively.

I've watched a looot (and by a lot, probably every video on the internet about productivity in studying and a lot of articles too) on studying more effectively and this list (or somehow a guide) may be the right one for you! Here on this list is a bunch of things I've picked up over the course of my entire academic life and I'm ready to share what stuck with me. Keep in mind that not every one of these works for everyone and everyone's studying techniques are all unique (to each their own!) so take these with a grain of salt.

Manage your time and be flexible if need be: It's good to study and focus and stay motivated yes, but remember that you're human and you need to rest and have fun too!

Focus and prioritize your needs (i.e. Studying): This feels like I'm going against my first point... But, what I mean here is that while you do need to rest as well, you need to manage your time and make sure that what needs to be done is done.

Start doing your work sooner than later: Of course it's soo relaxing to lay down or rest after school but isn't it better to finish everything before you rest... Which makes resting so much better because you won't be worrying about anything else? Focus at the task at hand quickly before you're going to rest and relax.

Stay Organized: Have an organization flow going on that works for you! If it's messy but you're able to work through it better than the minimalistic pictures you see on Pinterest then go for it! It's great to be organized because you'll have the ability to shift and finish your tasks much easier!

Choose the subjects/studies that you enjoy: This is because you'll be more motivated to do them. I think that if you do have interests that will help you in the future, it's good to chase them.

Focus on what will motivate you the most: This is if you think you don't have any current interests or if you can't choose the subjects you enjoy because of your school system. Try to figure out what subject you currently enjoy doing and try focusing on those!

Have the ability to adapt quickly to sudden changes (Or take them on as a challenge): If you're like me and something suddenly changes, you take it as a message from the universe and take it as a challenge. It's good to challenge yourself no matter where or who you think it's from. With the ability to adapt quick you'll instantly be able to understand why things are and will continue taking them on.

Be Methodical and Thorough in your final works/presentations: It's academically better to be straightforward to get your point across rather than beating around the bush. Unless it's a speech with personal anecdotes there's no reason to be implicit.

Be Punctual: be right on time (or better yet, earlier) in submitting your works and appearance in performance. 'Cause what's so bad about it anyway? It's certainly the best for time.

Now, this is a separate list I've made in accordance to the list above this picture. If anything, it's just as important as the list above because it tackles more on outside studying and interacting with people and such.

Enjoy the activities that's included in your studies!: I'm pretty sure if not a lot then at least one of your subjects in class or maybe a school thing includes an itinerary of school events and gatherings with fun activities. It's fun to mingle with friends and fellow students. <;33

Have a support system, great people in your surroundings: It goes to show that people in your surroundings affect your motivation and productivity. You can function and study more effectively in a cafe filled with like-minded people (i.e. people who're studying/working). Rather than being in cafes with chatty people, noisy people. It's also great to have a support system in a way that they push you to do better and do your best no matter what. A best friend perhaps, family or a family member, anyone can be your support system. As long as they're a positive impact on your being.

Don't fall for the pressures of others: I used to fall for this every time. I think that everyone progresses on their own pace and that you shouldn't take others' words as gospel. Remember, they're people too, they're not some God you have to follow. Follow your own footsteps and think thoroughly on what is right and wrong.

Engage in class discussion!: School is a place of learning. Recite no matter what. If it's wrong, you get corrected. If it's right, that's amazing that you know the answer! Please don't be afraid to make mistakes in the manner of learning. Don't be shy, who cares if people laugh at your mistakes? They can shut up when you answer correctly.

Make studying an official event in your day-to-day life: This correlates perfectly with time management and doing your work sooner or later. Considering that you're putting money, effort, and time into your studies, why not make it an official event? Focus on how you can work your time around studying and not the other way around.

Read for pleasure: Read books that aren't for school! Read the most amazing books you can get your hands on in the bookstore. Literature is a powerful tool you can utilise freely. Use it.

And we're done! Have fun and make sure to focus on studying and take breaks and hydrate yourself okay! I had to take a two day break from studying 'cause my body couldn't handle it and I slept a lot during those days. Prioritize yourself, your health, and your studies. In that order and in that order only. Goodluck in studying! Next guides will be about school supplies and my tips in reviewers and notes !

[asfearlessasamango]

🪲🪐? : )

🪲 ⇢ add 50 words to your current wip and share the paragraph here

okay, so, no one kill me but after watching the gray man (i'm kinda on an action movie kick) i was left w a lot of questions abt claire and six's life post-movie, had a vision of miranda semi-erotically tasering six, found out all the fanfic was actually abt chris evans' sociopathic character hooking up with Y/N (bleh), and thus started a new wip on friday. challenging myself to bang out a sweet slice of life fic before 11:59pm sunday so i can get back in the game of my ongoing wips. we're at 6k words.

The foil lid of this yogurt says Enjoy straight from the container or top it with fruit and granola. Six appreciates this. He wouldn’t have thought to pour fruit and granola on top of this plastic cup of yogurt, even though he’s seen dozens of aesthetic ads and commercials of the very same thing. The steps to make his breakfast look like a model one are never very clear to his brain, even though he can easily see the difference.

🪐 ⇢ name three good things going on in your life right now

i got a weekend job at a local concert venue! everyone there seems very nice and it should be a relatively chill job that sometimes lets me attend shows for free. yayy

i got into the OFIC fanauthor workshop! a spring writer's workshop specifically for fanauthors or people who are familiar with fanfic and may have written it before, but who are now writing og work. very exciting to me

the emails about those things both came in YESTERDAY so i will add an older thing, i copped one of exactly 15 official jstor merch baseball hats. very proud of myself. excellent finishing touch on my academic career

the ask game

[lucaaaaamakesart-lvl6]

MP: Careers Advice Interview

Week 6 7/3/24

Interview with Abigail Lemon, AUB Senior Careers Advisor

What help do you offer students with Careers Advice?

CV, Reviewing and writing

Career Planning

Cover Notes

Where to look for jobs

Who do I want to work with?

What sector?

How to approach them?

Confidence building

Softer skills

Pep talk, this is especially for graduates, if they have graduated and haven't find anything, resilience

Further studies, graduate degree

Do you find that graduates need more motivation and pep talk?

Varies

From Level 3 to Graduates

Have you noticed the amount of students seeking careers services change?

Hasn't changed

Haven't got the resources to offer 1to1's to all students

Do a lot of past students reach out for careers services?

Yes

Access for 3 years

Come back around 6 months later for help

See 2/3 graduates every week

What stage of university do you think students should start seeking out career advice?

From the start when they join university

To create a plan, work experience, what can I do at university to have the best CV

To build the soft skills that you don't get taught in course

What is your opinion on students seeking out career advice from social media creators over professional career advice and services within their universities?

Do it

Nothing better than speaking to people who have been in industry

Everyone can be biased

Seek out a variety, so you can inform you own decisions

Be descerning on social media

As long as you get advice, that's great

Social media is a great place for advice

Instead of careers advice?

They need career advice

Personalised and tailored

It's important as everyone is different

Different values, goals, experiences

Do you think there are any unique challenges that creative students face that students from academics or other courses may not?

Yes

Creative industry is hard to break into

Less openings

Creativity is personal, challenging for confidence and putting your work out there

Where do we stop, and the creativity begins?

Underlying confidence seems to be less in creative students

How large of a factor do you believe mental health has an impact on students starting their careers?

Massively

Especially in creative careers

Challenged for nuerodivergent students, more in the creative sector

More young people are suffering with mental health challenged

Having a toolkit to support you is important to get there, to manage personal struggles

Have you noticed any trends in the type of advice they are looking for, and has this changed from previous years?

Industries are more challenging at the moment

It's hard to actually find the roles, less than there used to be

Staying motivated and positive

Are there more online or face to face sessions?

Preference of face to face

Post covid, want more contact

Far in advance or last minute?

Very last minute, day before or few days before

Are they panicked?

Sometimes, sometimes not

They might often ask for specific advice like CV, but there is a bigger picture issue

They might not know what they want, they just want to start

Do you feel current graduates are more prepared or less prepared for work, than previous years you may have worked with?

Lots of opportunity at AUB, but not a lot of students take the opportunity

If its not compulsory, it's not utilised

How long have you been a career advisor?

Creative coach for 8

Careers coach, creative recruitment

Not always for students, only for a year

How has your role changed post-pandemic?

Not alot, its just more needed

People are realising the value of support

People are looking inward

People are self reflecting

What are the conversations based around for students VS graduates?

They are really similar

They are all mostly looking for the advice (above)

[belamelsworld]

Inspires the mind: Denny Ja faces a different view of religion

Introduction    In the current era of globalization, differences in views on religion are common. Each individual has different beliefs and beliefs. However, not everyone is able to face these differences wisely. In the midst of conditions like this, Denny JA appears as one of the figures who succeeded in arousing the minds of many people in facing different views about religion. This article will discuss the role of Denny in dealing with differences in religious views and how he is able to arouse the minds of many people.    I. Denny JA’s life journey    Before discussing the role of Denny JA in dealing with different views about religion, we need to see his life journey first. Denny JA, who has the full name Denny JA Soemargo, was born on January 8, 1951 in Kediri, East Java. He is known as a social activist, academics, and also the writer. Denny Ja once served as Chairman of the Jakarta Arts Council and was active in various community movements.    II. Denny Ja’s Thought About Religion    In dealing with different views about religion, Denny Ja has a very unique and wise thought. He believes that religion should be the source of affection and unity, not a tool to trigger conflict and division. Denny Ja believes that every religion has the same message, namely love, peace, and affection. Therefore, he often invites people to see religion as a connecting bridge, not as a separator wall.    III. Inspires the mind with dialogue and discussion    One way that Denny Ja is doing in dealing with a different view of religion is through dialogue and discussion. He often holds public discussion events involving various parties with different religious views. Through this dialogue, Denny Ja tries to understand the views of others and also give an understanding of the views he has. Denny Ja believes that by listening to each other and discussing, we can build a better understanding of religion and respect each other’s differences.    IV. Writings and books that arouse thoughts    Besides through dialogue and discussion, Denny Ja also aroused the minds of many people through his writing and books. He has written many articles and books that discuss religion, tolerance, and peace. In his writings, Denny Ja often invites the reader to reflect on the true meaning of religion and how we can face differences wisely. His inspirational and inspiring writings are often the subject of discussion and reflection for many people.    V. Facing criticism and challenges    It is undeniable that Denny Ja also faces criticism and challenges in dealing with different views on religion. Some people may disagree with the thoughts and approaches they do. However, Denny Ja remains firm in his beliefs and continues to struggle to build a better understanding between religious communities. He sees criticism and challenges as opportunities for learning and developing.    Conclusion    Denny Ja is a figure who succeeded in arousing the minds of many people in facing different views about religion. Through the approach to dialogue, discussion, writing, and book, he is able to help people understand the true meaning of religion and how to deal with differences wisely. Despite facing criticism and challenges, Denny Ja remained firm in his beliefs and continued to struggle to build a better understanding between religious communities. Hopefully the thoughts and approaches that he do can be an inspiration for many people in dealing with differences in religious views.

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[lawschoolsinaustralia]

Graduating from an Australian law school and the NCA assessment process

What is the NCA assessment process after you’ve graduated from an Australian law school?

If you’re considering studying law, you know it can be extremely competitive to get into a Canadian law school—and there are very few places available. Not being offered a coveted place often forces some students to rethink their career goals. For others, it just makes them more determined: they begin to look at other options, like studying law abroad.

Graduate qualifications from an Australian law school are recognized in Canada and internationally.

Understanding the Process of Returning to Canada to Practice as a Lawyer The basic process when returning to Canada and meeting the requirements to practice as a lawyer is as follows:

1. NCA assessment 2. Complete assigned requirements 3. Obtain Certificate of Qualification 4. Apply to bar admissions 5. Complete provincial licensing process

NCA Assessment, Examinations, and Certificate of Qualification The National Committee on Accreditation (NCA) assesses the legal education and professional experience of individuals who obtained their credentials outside of Canada or in a Canadian civil law program.

Graduates of Australian law schools must first apply to have their credentials assessed by the NCA. All applications are assessed by the NCA on a case-by-case basis because everyone’s application is unique and based on their own experiences and academic history.

The Assessment Criteria are listed at section 3.2 of the NCA Assessment Policy. NCA assessments will consider pre-law education, legal education, skills competencies, language proficiency in English or French, and consideration of past misconduct finding. An applicant’s legal education needs to include substantive legal knowledge of the core common law subjects in which you will demonstrate competence, including five Canadian subjects, which are mandatory for all applicants.

Most Australian law school graduates who apply through the NCA would be asked to complete challenge exams in the following areas:

Canadian Administrative Law

Canadian Constitutional Law

Canadian Criminal Law

Canadian Professional Responsibility

Foundations of Canadian Law

You will also need to complete a course in legal research and writing offered either by an approved Canadian common law program or though the NCA legal research and writing module with the Canadian Centre for Professional Legal Education (CPLED).

Complete Your Assigned NCA Requirements Once the NCA has finished your assessment, you will usually follow one of three paths for meeting your assignments:

Write and pass NCA exams; or

Complete assigned subjects at a Canadian law school; or

Complete a combination of 1 and 2—that is, you may meet some requirements by writing NCA exams and the rest by completing related courses at a Canadian law school.

Exams are graded on a pass/fail basis (50% is considered a pass). Exams are computer based on a secure exam platform, proctored online, fact-based, open-book, and three hours long. Results are released approximately 10–12 weeks from the date of the last scheduled exam of each session. See the current NCA exam schedule.

The number of times you can take an NCA exam is 3 plus 1. To write an NCA exam a fourth time, an applicant is required to provide confirmation that they understand that they will be required to take the course at law school if unsuccessful on the fourth attempt.

The NCA exams are self-study, so you must obtain the material on your own. Many law graduates get their texts from law schools/libraries, and from searching on Google. Be sure to consult the  NCA exam syllabus before purchasing the materials as the referenced textbooks can change, and ensure you purchase the correct edition of all texts.

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[idigitizellp21]

Building Powerful Relations With Your Students: A Teacher’s Guide

As a teacher, building powerful relationships with your students is essential for their academic success and personal growth. When students feel connected to their teacher, they are more likely to feel motivated, engaged, and supported throughout their learning journey.

This blog aims to explore some practical strategies for building healthy relationships with your students in class.

1. Show Genuine Interest in Your Students:

The first step in building a nurturing relationship with your students in a classroom is by showing genuine interest in them. It is critical to invest time and effort to know your students on a personal note by asking them about their interests, hobbies, and goals. Listen carefully to their questions and responses and additionally show empathy and understand them. By showing that you care about your student’s well-being and success, you are laying the foundation for a strong relationship.

2. Create a Safe and Supportive Learning Environment:

Students need to feel safe and supported in the classroom to learn effectively. As a teacher, you can create a positive learning environment by setting clear expectations and boundaries, establishing routines, and creating a sense of community in the classroom. Encourage your students to respect and support one another, and make sure everyone feels valued and included.

3. Be Approachable and Available:

Make yourself approachable and available for your students. Let them know that you are there to help them and that they can come to you with any questions or concerns. Respond promptly to emails and messages, and make time for one-on-one meetings with your students. By being accessible and responsive, you are showing your students that you value their input and care about their progress.

4. Provide Meaningful Feedback:

Feedback is essential for student growth and development. However, it is necessary to provide feedback that is both constructive and meaningful. It is ideal to give specific, actionable feedback that helps your students understand their strengths and areas for improvement. Encourage them to reflect on their learning and set attainable goals for themselves. By providing meaningful feedback, you are showing your students that you are invested in their success and growth.

5. Celebrate Your Students’ Achievements:

It is essential to celebrate your student’s achievements. Recognize their hard work and accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Celebrate both academic and personal achievements, such as mastering a difficult concept or overcoming a challenge. By celebrating your students’ successes, you are building their confidence and morale and increasing their commitment to learning.

6. Share Your Stories:

Storytelling is one of the simple ways to connect with students. Students find stories about former students, particularly compelling. They love hearing about students who once upon a time sat at the same desks where they sit currently. As a teacher, use personal stories to help students understand complex literature concepts, such as symbolism and quotation. Often use stories about their educational struggles help students see how important it is to stay consistent. Sharing the story with the school students helps them accept that challenges are part of the journey to achievement.

Summarizing:

Building effective relationships with your students requires a combination of empathy, support, and meaningful communication. By showing genuine interest in your students, creating a safe and supportive learning environment, being approachable and available, providing meaningful feedback, and celebrating their achievements, you can establish a strong connection with your students and help them achieve their full potential. As a teacher, investing in building these relationships is one of the most rewarding things you can do for your students and yourself.

At Harshad Valia International School, we believe educators form an essential part of our student’s educational journey. They build a strong bond with the students and it impacts their study environment drastically which impacts their growth positively. Hence, our hiring process is not only technically robust but also assesses social and interactive quotient while teaching.

You may want to skim through what qualities you require in order to be a great teacher.

[thejordanriversblog]

Journal 7

How do teachers differentiate based on data?  Where do you see differentiation in the field?  

When it comes to differentiation, data should be the key driver. In any classroom, it can be easy to identify students who learn differently than the “norm”. Maybe you can identify some students who always seem to struggle, or some with IEPs that tell you specifically what it is they need differentiation with to succeed. Maybe you can also identify a few students who consistently perform above target and often complain of being bored or done early. It could be easy to send some students to be tutored for extra help or to the bookshelf to occupy their mind, but differentiation asks that teachers go even further and develop lessons plans with these varying levels of learners in mind. 

     Differentiation is responsive teaching rather than one size fits all teaching (Tomlinson, 2005). This means that teachers proactively plan varied approaches to what students need to learn, how they will learn it, and/or how they will show what they have learned in order to increase the likelihood that each student will learn as much as he or she can, as efficiently as possible (Tomlinson, 2003).

     Differentiated instruction is a continued series of student-oriented decisions that teachers make about how they are going to teach their range of students. These decisions though, must be based on data. This data can come from your own assessments or from other/former teachers who have had the students. Things like learning styles, preferences, behavior, and environments may also affect classroom learning as well. Data about any of these subjects, as well as academics can and should be collected regularly to inform instruction for your students. A simple way to think about this might be to administer a pre-test before every unit you teach to determine where students are with the content, expectations, and learning goals. This can tell you how to group students, what to prioritize, and how to create the rest of the unit. 

     In the field, I have not seen a ton of differentiation so far. My CT does a good job of engaging the students and keeping things exciting, but they do not seem to be doing a ton of differentiation. There is one partially blind student in the class, but they are able to keep up with everyone else since all of the class work in on a Chromebook that they can zoom in on the screen if needed. My CT did originally mention that they had to alter instruction based on the low iReady reading scores. Since most of the 8th grade students are at a 4th/5th grade reading level, they had differentiated their instruction by focusing more on vocabulary than with other groups of students from the past. Although this is not really differentiating for her current group of students, it still shows an effort to meet the current needs of students, which I think is more than a lot of teachers might be doing in the field. 

     In teaching my two-week unit, I hope to try out differentiation with these students through using graphic organizers. Some of the students struggle to participate in class when they feel overwhelmed, so it seems like they would benefit from graphic organizers that are a bit more guided and pre-filled than the others. This might encourage them to jump in where feels comfortable rather than giving up before really trying because they already feel behind or confused.  I also want to try assigning different questions to different students based on the level of difficulty and their pre-test scores. 

     In my future classroom, I hope to use differentiation a lot more by incorporating it into everyday lessons and activities. I would want to do a lot of group work and stations, so that would be a good opportunity to use differentiation. Additionally, I want to make a lot of tiered lessons so that my below target students don’t feel overwhelmed and my above target students will feel challenged. It also would be important to me to include data from student conferences. I would want to talk to students about whether they feel challenged enough and take their opinions into consideration when grouping them or assigning them tasks. 

[youngsoutheastasianleaders]

#YSEALIWLA Alumnae Network: Wonder Women Series — Dialogue 2: Rizka Maulida

“Moving countries, Be a Woman, and Urban Health”

Over 20 women across Southeast Asia participated in the “Wonder Women Series” Session 2 on September 18th, 2022. Rizka Maulida, a Ph.D. student in the MRC Epidemiology Unit at the University of Cambridge, shared her passion and current research on urban health.  

What does it feel like to live across multiple countries your whole life? How do you think the experience will influence you? 

For Rizka Maulida, who has lived in Indonesia, the USA, Japan, and now the UK, the experience of moving countries since she was growing up opened her curiosity that there are a lot of different things in the world. As a woman, she also experienced various cultures on how the world treats women differently across the world. Therefore, she encourages women to travel if they have the chance and build friendships all over the world. To note, she acknowledged her privileged background to be able to live in different countries since she was in junior high school.

But, how do you adapt physically and mentally to live across countries?

There are some differences, for example when I grew up in Indonesia, I used to wear a uniform when I went to school, but in the US, a school uniform is not required, just a dress code to follow. I also feel like American culture encourages me to speak my mind more, which I really appreciate, especially when I arrived as a young girl from abroad. I had a different experience when I lived in Japan and even in the UK right now. 

Talking about academic things in different countries, what kind of challenges do you face?

Impostor syndrome, feeling like I don’t deserve to be here, is something that I continuously struggle with. But I try to see it from a different perspective. If I am here at Cambridge and I don’t deserve it, doesn’t it mean that the selection committee made a mistake by accepting me? I try to not compare my journey with others, because everyone has a different journey, and conversations with peers have been really helpful for me. 

Living across countries also led Rizka to have an interest in health, especially urban health. At first, her interest was strongly in physics and astronomy. However, it started to change when she visited Texas Medical Center, which has not only a hospital but also a research center. That experience was eye-opening to her as a girl to learn that health is not merely medicine but so much more than that. 

What led you to urban health?

When I was doing my Master’s Degree, I was interested in dietary or nutritional behavior among adolescents. During my study, I was studying Jakarta, and I realized that urban areas have different issues than rural areas. I realized there are complex urban health problems in Jakarta, like air pollution or limited walkable access, especially compared to other big cities like Tokyo. The same problem also applies to other big cities in Southeast Asia, even though we are progressing in the right direction. Therefore, my background growing up in Jakarta led me to study more about urban health. My research is focusing on country policy regarding city development and its relation to the health of the people. Health is intersectoral and all sectors need to be working together. 

Based on your discussion with colleagues from various countries, what effort do you think we should prioritize to achieve public health in Southeast Asia?

It may sound very biased, but I think we need to prioritize urban health. I am really concerned about air pollution in Southeast Asia. There are a lot of infrastructure projects happening, but are they concerned about health in the construction process? There are also more children in these countries than people of older ages. More healthy food options must be available to ensure health among the people. 

Is there any disinformation about public health that you wish to dispel?

I want to emphasize that your health is partly your government’s responsibility. The government is also responsible for structural support to ensure we have options and access to be healthy. For example, our access to fresh produce in our neighborhood. A community can also factor in your health, but my point is health is never only the individual’s responsibility. 

You mentioned the tendency to have fewer children across the region. To counter that trend, more pressure is put on women to give birth, preferably before 35, to ensure the quality of children. What is your take?

While it is not my expertise, I have a special interest in this issue. It takes a village to raise a child, so I believe in a bigger system to provide women with more flexibility. We need everyone to be involved. For example, daycare, more flexible working hours for parents, and maternal and paternal maternity leave, so support is important. 

How do you think the world can better collaborate in preparing for future pandemics, including infectious diseases like Covid or Monkeypox?

This is surprising to me how different countries use different approaches to tackle the pandemic. Right now, in the East, people strictly still need to use masks. It is totally different than in the West. First, I think systematic surveillance needs to be in place. Keep discussing or communicating with other countries. It will be different for every country, but don’t ignore the signal. Pay attention to the cases but also your government’s concern about health facilities. Are they able to cope? If not, how should we prevent these cases? Do we have vaccines? And so on. 

There is a growing trend in SEA to use natural supplements, also known as functional food. Why do you think this trend exists?

I am not sure why it is becoming a trend, but there is a big part of being healthy, being physically active, minimizing your trash, eating nutritious food, etc. I think if it is harmless, it is okay. As long as it doesn’t substitute the medicine. 

Do you think there is any gender disparity in accessing health in Southeast Asia?

I am not sure, but I think in big cities, there are no disparities between genders, but in rural areas where a son is prioritized over a daughter, maybe yes. What I am concerned about is maternal health among women; probably, it counts as gender disparity because the expectation is for every woman to be able to give birth. But how about equal access to the health facility or if they need support? I noticed that it is still an issue. Women also usually are more alert to find help related to health, compared to men who may neglect the need.

How does your learning in Cambridge enrich your knowledge and skills in urban health?

I have a lot of colleagues from all over the world that definitely have diverse perspectives that may or may not be similar to mine. Here I also deeply realize that health needs to have a structural approach like what I mentioned at the beginning. 

Lastly, what is your plan for your future and how will you create an impact?

Firstly, I am affiliated with an institution in Indonesia, where I will be contributing via teaching and research. But, I also want to create research that will be beneficial for the policy-making process. Thus, contributing to many issues. My biggest dream for Indonesia is to build some kind of birth cohort. It is very common in the US and UK, where you follow up with someone from clinical to behavior measurement. It is very important because it is not only one or two years, but it can be ten or even seventy-five years. Because you measure someone in many aspects over time, you can take that as a recommendation for the policy.  

The dialogue session was moderated by a YSEALI WLA alumna, Nurul Husna Salahuddin, an Indonesian woman pursuing a Ph.D. in Technische Universitat Munchen. The event was organized by the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Women Alumnae network as the second of three dialogue sessions in the Wonder Women Series. The series features prominent women figures who share their experiences and personal insights on breaking gender barriers in their chosen fields.  

[mansurali2343]

When You Start College, Here's What To Expect

It can be both exciting and overwhelming to start college. On the one hand, you're finally taking that step towards achieving your academic goals. On the other hand, you might feel like you're in over your head with all of the new responsibilities. But don't worry - To help you get started, here are some things you can expect to see when you start college!

Percentage Matters for Admission to the college

Some college place more emphasis on your percentage, so it's important to research each college you're interested in and see how they weigh your high school academics when making admissions decisions. For a few colleges, your high school GPA and class rank may be a more important factors.

While your school's percentage can be a factor in the college admissions process, don't let it stress you out too much. Remember that there are many other aspects of your application that colleges will consider, and focus on putting your best foot forward in all areas of the admissions process.

A new academic setting

Starting college is a big adjustment. You'll be living in a new environment, making new friends, and managing your time differently. Here's what you can anticipate from the blog section of Colleges.

You'll find practical advice on everything from choosing the right classes to study tips and managing your finances. College website blogs are written by all current or former college students, so you know exactly what you're going through. And they're happy to share their insights to help you make the most of your college experience.

So check out the blog section of Colleges regularly for great information and advice on all things college.

More independence

Assuming you'll be living away from home, the college will be the first time you're really on your own. That means more independence when it comes to things like managing your time, money, and household chores. Of course, with this newfound freedom comes responsibility. But don't worry, you'll figure it out!

Social pressure to fit in

One of the biggest challenges college students face is social pressure. There's a lot of pressure to fit in and be like everyone else. This can be tough to handle, especially if you're shy or introverted. The best way to deal with this pressure is to find your group of friends and be yourself. Don't try to be someone you're not just to fit in. Be confident in who you are and the people will come.

New financial responsibilities

Assuming you're not living at home with your parents while you attend college, you'll likely have a lot more financial responsibilities than you did in high school. From rent and utilities to groceries and entertainment, there are lots of new expenses to budget for.

If you're not used to managing your money, it can be easy to overspend and get into debt. Keep track of your spending by creating a budget and sticking to it. And be sure to save up for big-ticket items like textbooks and plane tickets home for the holidays.

With a little careful planning, you can avoid money troubles and stay on top of your finances while you're in college.

Increased workloads and expectations

Your workload and expectations will likely grow as you enroll in college. This is especially true if you're attending a more competitive school or college. You'll need to be prepared to put in long hours of studying and be more diligent about completing assignments. Class sizes may also be larger, so you'll have less one-on-one time with your professors. But don't worry, you'll adjust and find a study routine that works for you. Just remember to stay on top of your work and manage your time wisely.

Junior year of college

Here are some things to keep in mind

1. You'll likely be taking more challenging courses. As you move closer to declaring a major, you'll take more advanced classes in your field of study. This can mean more extended and more difficult assignments, but it also means you'll be learning more about what interests you.

2. You may start to feel more pressure as you think about your future. With junior year comes the realization that graduation is not far off. This can be a lot of pressure, especially if you're still undecided about your career path. But try to remember that there's no rush to figure everything out right now. Take some time to explore your options and figure out what feels right for you.

3. Your social life may change a bit. As you get older, you may find yourself gravitating towards different social circles than you did in your freshman and sophomore years. This is natural and normal! Embrace the change and enjoy getting to know new people.

Sophomore year of college

What to expect during your sophomore year of college? Well, expect a little more comfortable with the campus and surroundings. You will also find that your academics will become more challenging as you move on to upper-level classes. Time management becomes crucial during sophomore year, so keep up with your studies! Also, get involved on campus and in extracurricular activities to meet new friends and explore different interests. Lastly, enjoy your sophomore year because it'll be over before you know it!

CONCLUSION

Now that you know what to expect when you start college, it's time to get excited about all the new opportunities and experiences that await you. Embrace the challenge of college and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. With a little planning and preparation, you'll be on your way to a successful and fulfilling college experience.