Conclusion

Blogging was a very unique experience for English class. It is something that I never thought of doing or planned on doing. It was a new task that I learned to face and deal with. After doing it for a semester of college I have decided that this is something I would not care to do in the future. It was difficult for me to write blogs that were decent. However I am glad I experienced it so that I know what it's like to run one and the dedication it requires.

Blogging is something that I did not expect to do in a college class. I thought blogging would occur in a different class other than English. I did not find blogging helpful to me because I personally couldn't showcase my true writing skill. It was constantly hard for me to choose and write about a topic while not turning it into an essay. One reason I believe it was hard for me was because of my topic of choice. It was hard for me to create topics and write a decent blog on it. If I could go back I would change my topic and choose something that I would be more interested in writing about. I personally believe that blogging is not the best idea for class, and that the students should have a choice to do the blogs or essays instead. I say this because for some people as myself, blogging does not work as well for me as writing an essay would be.

I am glad I experienced blogging. It opened up a new view on writing that I never thought of. Even though I didn't like it, it was a unique experience. I won't be continuing my blog once the class is over, but I believe others should continue. Some of my classmates had really good blogs that were interesting and captured my attention. If I were to recommend blogging to anyone in the future, I would definitely tell him or her to pick a topic they would be interested in and that they know they could write good blogs on.

Blogging opened up my eyes to whole new style of writing, on that I learned to cope with and overcome. Although I personally struggled with it I was able to produce what I feel was decent material. It was a unique way to write for a class as opposed to writing essays. Through my experience I learned how to adapt and only write relevant information as long as using thorough detail, something that I failed to do sometimes. I'm glad I experienced blogging, but I don't care to do it again in the future.

Studying

Studying is something every college student should be doing. Those who study regularly are more successful in the classroom compared to those who barely study or don't study at all. It is essential for every student to develop study skills. There are many ways to study, styles that cater to every students preference. Studying will make or break the students success in college.

There are many ways for students to study whether it be alone or in a group. One very popular method is using flashcards. Flashcards are a great utensil for students to use to learn about a desired subject and test themselves on it. Flash cards usually allow people to learn basic aspects of a domain like key vocabulary (Markman). However, they are not the best when going into detail. For complete understanding one would need to practice the material over and over. Studying in a group is something I would highly recommend every student try. Group study usually keeps one more attentive to the material as they discuss it with their fellow peers. It also allows the opportunity for the students to get a different point of view on the material, rather than their own. One can learn stuff they might not have known previously in-group study as it allows people to open up to new ideas and knowledge. A great tip for students is to take study breaks throughout their session. If one studies for hours straight with no break, their brain will become overloaded and they will not retain as much knowledge. Taking breaks allows one to stay focused on studying without draining themselves doing it.

Choosing when and where to study is a huge factor in ones success. Students study whenever they have time whether it is in the morning, afternoon, or evening. Many students study late night because they put it off until the last minute as they don't like to do it, or they might be busy during the rest of the day. However, studies show that "students who study late at night tend to get worse grades than those who study in the evening"(Markman). This probably occurs because students tend to be more alert and focused in this time, as opposed to late at night. Choosing where to study can make all the difference in how much knowledge one retains when studying. Students need to find a place they find peaceful and where they could study with the least amount of distractions. Adam Sicinski says that, "The higher the temperature gauge rises, the lazier your brain becomes, and the more effort it takes to achieve your ideal learning state. " Because of this, one should try to find a cool environment and where comfortable clothing so that they can maximize all of their study time to their benefit.

Studying is not a fun activity that people like to do. Everyone would rather be doing something else that they find fun. However, studying is a major part of college and it is crucial that every student develops good study habits. If one develops a study schedule and does it consistently, their grades will be a lot higher and they will be a better student. Developing study habits is not an option if one wants to succeed. Sicinski states that studying will not only better prepare your mind for the process of learning, but will also unquestionably transform your personal approach to thinking about what you are learning.

Works Cited

Markman, Art. "Developing Good Study Habits Really Works." Psychology Today. N.p., 27 Feb. 2012. Web. 17 Apr. 2013. <www.psychologytoday.com/blog/ulterior-motives/201202/developing-good-study-habits-really-works>.

Sicinski, Adam. "How to Develop Smart Study Habits | IQ Matrix Blog." IQ Matrix Blog. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Apr. 2013. <http://blog.iqmatrix.com/smart-study-habits>.

Taking Advantage

College has numerous things to offer to students including educational and recreational resources. It would be silly for students to not utilize and take advantage of them; after all, the students are paying for them whether they use them or not. These include the gym, tutoring center, health center, and many more. They are all relatively easy to find around campus and could greatly benefit the student if used.

Almost every college has a gym, some nicer than others. The gym gives students the perfect opportunity for students to get fit. For many it will be hard to get used to as they will feel weak and helpless, but if they keep going they will see the results and going to the gym will become a daily routine. The gym is also a good place to go if one gets bored. It is a much better alternative rather than sitting in the dorm room watching TV.

The tutoring center is one of the biggest advantages at every college that students should use. The tutoring is free and there are people there who are willing to help you in your academics. The tutoring center greatly helps anyone who is falling behind in classes and needs the extra help. Students shouldn't be afraid to go to the tutoring center; there is nothing wrong with getting extra help. It is more embarrassing to fail a class than it is to go to the tutoring center. One can prevent failure if they take the time and effort to visit the tutoring center.

The student health center is something almost no student takes advantage of. Colleges have a health center staffed with trained professionals who are there throughout the week to take care of the students. The visits are free and present a good opportunity to help those students without healthcare. The staff is there to treat students from a simple cold to serious injuries. 

These are just a few of the resources at college that students should take advantage of, but not all. There are many more resources at college for students to utilize. Since the student is paying for all of these resources whether they use them or not, the students might as well utilize them all. They could greatly enhance a students experience and success at college.

Works Cited

"5 Perks Students Don't Take Advantage of In College” Broke Grad Student." Broke Grad Student Paying back $22,000 in student loans by making money online. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Apr. 2013. <http://www.brokegradstudent.com/5-perks-students-dont-take-advantage-of-in-college/>.

Mallette, Dania. "Top Resources College Students Should Take Advantage Of." College Scholarships, Admissions & Online Courses Resource - CollegeToCareers.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Apr. 2013. <http://www.collegetocareers.com/top-resources-college-students-advantage/>.

Potential Sources

For my final analysis paper, I have many potential sources that I am considering to use in my paper. In this blog, I will talk about three of my potential sources. These blogs are Happy Schools Blog, CampusGrotto, and College Students Are Poor. Each blog has their own unique perspective on college, and ways to make a students life simpler. They are all successful blogs that are interesting and appeal to the readers.

Happy Schools Blog has many posts on the job market and where to look for a job when graduated from college. This information is very useful as everyone looks for a job after they graduate. It also talks about the top companies hiring interns, and all the possibilities the interns have. The site has blog posted from multiple authors, rather than just one. This allows more of a variety in the subject, as well as different views and opinions on subjects. The blog has many different subjects readers can explore, rather than staying on one page of blogs.

CampusGrotto is a very interesting site. It provides a vast amount of insightful information; such as how to pick a major, the most expensive colleges, and other advice. Many of its blogs have links to take you into further detail on what the reader was looking at. This is very useful as it allows the reader to look even further into a desired subject. Another interesting thing about this blog is its recommendations. It has recommendations for the best place to get textbooks, which colleges to attend based on major, and which colleges have the best social life. The blog provides good advice that tries to help one become a successful student.

College Students Are Poor is a unique site. It is almost completely dedicated to the cycle of money in college. It has many posts on not just how to save money, but also how to make money in college. The blog even has coupons available for students to use and take advantage of. The blog provides extremely useful information for those wanting to learn how to save and make money. The main author of the blog, Mike, does his absolute best to help students and their finances. This blog is one that I believe everyone should check out, as one will definitely learn something new.

These are so far my top three potential blogs for my final analysis paper. They each provide a unique perspective on college, and how every college student can be successful. I chose these blogs because I believe they are executed greatly, and have useful knowledge that I believe every student should know. They will all teach new things to the reader that will greatly benefit them.

Works Cited

"College Students Are Poor! - Make and Save Money In College." College Students Are Poor! - Make and Save Money In College. N.p., n.d. Web. 4 Apr. 2013. <http://collegestudentsarepoor.com>.

"Home." Happy Schools Blog. N.p., n.d. Web. 3 Apr. 2013. <www.happyschoolsblog.com>.

"Most Expensive Colleges." CampusGrotto. N.p., n.d. Web. 3 Apr. 2013. <www.campusgrotto.com>.

Taking School Seriously

Taking school seriously is one of the hardest things for a student to do. No one wants to spend their time slaving away on schoolwork when they can do other things; things that they might find more enjoyable than schoolwork. What many don't realize until it's too late, is that how well one performs in school will affect the outcome of their life. Employers look for the people who excelled in school and got their work done, rather than those who slacked off and skimmed by school.

It is essential for students to pay attention while in class and not doze off. If they're not paying attention, they can miss important information that they need to know. When one doesn't pay attention, their grade will most likely suffer as they will not absorb all the information essential to pass the class. I know from experience that it is very hard to pay attention sometimes due to lack of interest, but one must fight the urge to doze off and instead focus on the material. It will pay off when the student earns a good grade in the class.

Homework is a nightmare for every student. Everyone dreads it and does not want to do it. Many will keep putting it off until the last second, or just not even do it. Everyone has done this at least once, including myself. However, homework is important to all students. It helps one practice and develop their skills in the subject matter, so that they can harness these skills and apply them in everyday life.
Although it may be difficult and frustrating sometimes, it can be done. One has to set aside the time to get it done and not put it off to the last minute. Those who do their homework will be able to apply the subject and pass the class with a good grade, rather than those who don't take the time or effort to do it.

Studying is something everyone should do. It will vastly improve ones performance in the classroom. Studying is probably one of the most boring things to do, but it pays off. One of the easiest ways to study is to set a schedule, and even study with other people. That way, everyone can give their own views on the subject and even help each other out. Studying with a group will also improve ones focus as it will make it harder for their mind to wander off, unlike if they were studying alone. If one studies regularly, they will definitely be successful in the classroom and earn a good grade.

Taking school seriously will greatly benefit each individual. One will be able to get in to a prestigious university and have many great job offers after graduation. Everyone would rather accept a student who excels and performs well rather than a slacker. Taking school seriously is essential for every student.

Spring Break

Everyone's favorite time during the spring semester is about to occur. This event is called spring break. College students everywhere get a whole week away from school to do whatever they want. This can include going home, the beach, work, or other place.

A popular spot for college kids to go to is the beach. Thousands of college students will flock the beaches for a week, hoping to create a bunch of memories, whether they be good or bad. The most popular beaches to go to during spring break are in Florida. There, many people have insane parties and act wild. However, one must be weary of the dangers that can happen when letting your guard down. One can get robbed, beaten, and even raped. A lot of these events will occur because many of the students will be beyond drunk. During this break, cops are on high alert. They know that kids will act crazy and the cops won't take crap for anyone. They will not hesitate to arrest someone and take them to jail.

Some people like to go home during spring break. They will go home because they miss their family and want to spend time with them. They will also go home because they can't afford to do anything with friends like go to the beach or other places. Going home isn't always the funnest thing to do, but it is definitely the cheapest. One will save a good amount of money by choosing to go home instead of a vacation spot. Going home will also give one the opportunity to possibly go back to work for a week to make some quick money. It is not the funnest thing to do over break, but having money is a great feeling and no one will disagree to that.

Spring break is a marvelous time for students. It gives them the opportunity to be care free and not worry about school for a week. It is a week every student marks on their calendars and waits for it to occur. However, one must be careful of all the dangers that could happen. But most importantly, one needs to have fun and relax.

Paying for college

Going to college is a huge benefit to anyone. It allows one to earn a degree and become proficient in an area of study if one puts in the work. However, this beneficial education does not come free, it is very expensive. For example, to attend George Mason University as an in-state resident will cost $9,240 a year while out of state costs $27,564 a year. That doesn't even include room and board. Living on campus will cost you between $5,050 to $6,690 a year depending on ones living situation. These are tremendous expenses that one must pay. They do not have a choice if they want to attend the university. If one can not afford to pay it themselves, there are ways to assist them.

One way to pay for college is to save up your money and make financial decisions that will benefit the individual. Instead of buying something one wants, they should put that money in their savings for college. According to Smart Money, "Every dollar you pay up front saves nearly $2 in interest if were to borrow that dollar". That's a lot of money one ends up losing if they have to borrow money. They will eventually owe more money back than borrowed. To avoid that, it's best for the person to save up as much money as they can.

The FAFSA is a great way to help pay for college. The FAFSA determines how much money one can receive from the government in the form of grants, depending on the family's income situation. This is money that one does not need to pay back, A great advantage for everybody. However, it is not guaranteed and it's not always a lot of money, so one needs to continue saving.

A great way to make college cheaper is to attend community college first. It is significantly cheaper than attending a university right away. If one were to attend NVCC first and took 16 credits, it would only cost in-state students $2,324 and out of state students $5,440. This is significantly cheaper and saves one a good amount of money. With the money one saves attending NVCC first, they could potentially save up enough money to pay for GMU without taking any loans.

Loans are not they best way to pay for college. I would personally try to avoid them as much as one can and use them only if they're last resort. The reason to avoid loans is because one has to pay them back in a certain time period with interest. This interest causes one to lose money because they end up owing more than they borrowed in the end. It also becomes a struggle to pay back these loans when one graduates because no one is guaranteed a job. If one has no job, they will struggle to payback the loans and might end up losing other personals to cover the debt. Do yourself a favor and try to avoid loans. You will just lose money rather than gain it.

There are many ways to pay for college. One just has to find what works best for them. It will be worth the expense in the end, one just has to know the proper ways to pay it. One can save themselves debt if they can do this without losing money in the end. After all, everyone knows it's all about making money, no one wants to lose it. Many go to college just because it increases ones chances at making a bigger paycheck in the future.

Works Cited:

Bodnar, Janet, Anne Kates Smith, and  Kiplinger. "7 smart ways to pay for college - 1 - education & savings - MSN Money." Money: Personal finance, investing news & advice - MSN Money. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Feb. 2013. <http://money.msn.com/college-savings/7-smart-ways-to-pay-for-college-kiplinger.aspx>.

"GMU Admissions: Undergraduate Tuition Costs." GMU Admissions: Homepage. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Feb. 2013. <http://admissions.gmu.edu/common/undergraduateTuition.asp>.

"George Mason University - Office of Housing & Residence Life." George Mason University - Office of Housing & Residence Life. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Feb. 2013. <http://housing.gmu.edu/general/rates/>.

"How to Pay for College - SmartMoney.com." Online Investing: Stocks, Personal Finance & Mutual Funds at SmartMoney.com - SmartMoney.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Feb. 2013. <http://www.smartmoney.com/borrow/student-loans/how-to-pay-for-college-1305005764769/>.

"Tuition & Fees - Future Students :: Northern Virginia Community College." Northern Virginia Community College. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Feb. 2013. <http://www.nvcc.edu/future-students/paying-for-college/tuition-fees/>.

Keep Up

One of the most important things one can do in college is keep up. If one falls behind, it can potentially leave you struggling to learn new material and can cause your grade to slip. College classes move at a very fast pace, and one must be able to get use to this before suffering the potential consequences.

One thing that makes many students fall behind is not doing their work in time. Many will procrastinate and say they have time to do it later. However, when the due date comes they don't have the assignment completed, leaving them behind. If one skips one assignment, they will have to make it up while doing others that have an upcoming due date. All this extra work can create chaos and leave them worried about old material instead of focusing on the new material. While the teacher and the rest of the class have moved on, the student fallen behind is stuck playing catch up, causing their grade to slip and fall behind where they should be.

Another reason for falling behind is poor attendance. Many will choose to stay in bed because they stayed up too late doing other things and wake up exhausted and out of energy. When one skips class, they miss out on important material they need to know. Because of the brisk pace college runs at, one can not afford to miss many classes. Even missing just one can put you behind farther than expected. It is very difficult to catch up once fallen behind, so one needs to attend class as much as possible. If they do, they will keep up in the class and be at pace with the teacher. If not, one will become very stressed as they try to catch up.

It is to ones benefit to stay caught up with the class. The classes won't always be fun and I know nobody likes to get up early to go to school. One just has to deal with it though so they can be successful. It will benefit them as they keep up with the class and have less stress. If one can't keep up with the class, they should consider dropping it or switch to a time frame that works for them. Whatever one does, they just need to make sure they complete all their assignments on time and stay caught up.