About Marilyn Gardner Milton
Marilyn Gardner Milton’s career in education began when she entered college. Her first steps towards this career choice were accomplished when she graduated from the University of Connecticut with her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Education. After finishing her time at UConn, she continued her education by splitting her Masters of Education (M.Ed) between Boston State College and Framingham State University, both based in and around the Boston, Massachusetts area. In 1987 Marilyn finished the journey to earn her Ph.D. She graduated from Boston College with her Ph.D. in Educational Administration and Supervision as well as a minor in Computer Science. While both degrees would be of great use in her future, Marilyn wasn’t quite done yet. She finished her education by getting her Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from Suffolk University Law school, where she was also awarded the American Jurisprudence Award for Excellence: Commercial Law.
In 1985 Marilyn Gardner Milton made her first foray into the world of distance learning administration, as well as the first of her roles consulting. She became the Executive Consultant for The Center for Educational Leadership and Technology and held that position until 1995. In 1994 Marilyn became the Executive Director and the Director of Education at the Boston, Massachusetts based Computer Museum, a position she held until 1997. In 2006 she became Director of Business Development for the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA), a position she holds to this day.
In 1997 Marilyn began her career in the administration of higher education institutes. She was appointed to be the Vice-President of Academic Affairs for the Massachusetts Communications College and the New England Institute of Art. In 2001 she became the Vice-President of Academic Affairs for Bay State College and in 2006 she became a Program Professor and Education Enterprise Associate for Nova Southeastern University, one of the largest non-profit accredited universities in the country. A position she holds to this day.
How Homesickness Can Impact Your Grades
Leaving home for college is an exciting adventure but can also trigger feelings of homesickness. Missing loved ones, familiar surroundings, and established routines can significantly impact your well-being and, consequently, your academic performance. Here’s how homesickness can affect your grades and some strategies to cope:
- Reduced Focus and Concentration: Homesickness can make focusing on lectures, assignments, and studying difficult. You might constantly think about home, leading to decreased concentration and information retention.
- Decreased Motivation and Energy: Feeling down and missing home can zap your motivation to attend classes, complete homework, or participate actively in coursework. This lack of energy can hinder your academic performance.
- Increased Absenteeism and Sleep Issues: Homesickness might lead you to skip classes or stay in bed longer, missing valuable learning opportunities. Sleep disturbances due to anxiety or sadness can further affect your concentration and energy levels.
- Difficulty Adapting to College Life: Adjusting to a new environment, academic workload, and social dynamics can be overwhelming. Homesickness can exacerbate these challenges, making settling in and establishing healthy academic habits harder.
- Increased Stress and Anxiety: Missing home can be a significant source of stress and anxiety. These negative emotions can cloud your judgment, making it difficult to manage your time effectively and complete tasks to the best of your ability.
Coping Strategies:
- Stay Connected: Regular communication with loved ones back home through calls, texts, or video chats can provide comfort and a sense of connection.
- Build a Support System: Contact friends, roommates, or resident advisors. Talking to someone who understands can be a huge relief. Consider joining social groups or clubs to build a new support network.
- Engage in Self-Care: Prioritize activities that promote your well-being. Get enough sleep, eat healthy meals, and exercise regularly. Relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing can help manage stress and anxiety.
- Explore Your New Surroundings: Explore college resources and your new environment. Visit museums, attend campus events, or try new activities. Immersing yourself in your new surroundings can help combat feelings of isolation.
- Seek Professional Help: If homesickness is severe and impacting your daily life, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a counsellor or therapist. They can provide tools and strategies to manage your emotions and adjust to college life.
Remember, homesickness is an average experience. By acknowledging your feelings, implementing coping strategies, and seeking support, you can minimise the negative impact on your studies and thrive in your new academic environment.
Determining If Your Major Is the Right Fit for You
Choosing a college major can feel like a high-stakes decision. You’re investing time, money, and energy into a path that will shape your future career. So, how do you know if you’ve picked the right major? Here are some questions to ask yourself to ensure a good fit:
- Passion and Interest: Does this field genuinely excite you? Are you curious to learn more, even outside of classwork? Passion fuels motivation and perseverance, crucial for academic success and career satisfaction.
- Skills and Strengths: Align your major with your natural talents and abilities. For example, consider English literature or communications if you excel at writing and analysis. You are matching your skills to your significant sets you up for success and enjoyment in your studies.
- Career Opportunities: Research job prospects in your chosen field. What kind of careers are available? What are the salary ranges and growth potential? Ensure your major aligns with your long-term career goals.
- Coursework and Curriculum: Do the required courses in the significant pique your interest? Will you be challenged and stimulated by the material? Reviewing the curriculum can help you visualise the learning journey and ensure it aligns with your academic goals.
- Flexibility and Exploration: Many colleges allow you to explore different majors before declaring. Take introductory courses in various fields to discover your true calling. Don’t be afraid to switch majors if you find a better fit – it’s better to do it early than invest years in the wrong path.
- Talk to People: Connect with professors, advisors, and professionals in your field of interest. Ask them about their experiences, the day-to-day realities of the job, and the skills required for success. Their insights can provide valuable guidance.
Remember, choosing a major is not a permanent decision. It’s a stepping stone on your career path. By prioritising your interests, skills, and career goals, you’ll be well-equipped to find a major that sets you up for success and fulfilment.
Getting Along With a Difficult College Roommate
College is a whirlwind of new experiences, and sharing a living space with someone can be exciting and challenging. But what happens when your roommate’s habits clash with yours? Here are some tips for navigating a difficult roommate situation and finding a way to coexist peacefully.
Communication is Key: Open and honest communication is crucial. Schedule a calm conversation to discuss the issues – untidiness, late-night noise, differing guest policies. Approach the conversation from a “we” perspective, focusing on solutions rather than placing blame.
Listen and Empathize: Try to see things from your roommate’s perspective. Maybe their late-night studying is due to a heavy course load, or their messy desk reflects a last-minute project frenzy. Actively listen to their concerns and acknowledge their feelings.
Establish Ground Rules: Create a roommate agreement outlining expectations for cleanliness, noise levels, shared spaces, and guest policies. Be clear and specific but also flexible enough to accommodate occasional exceptions.
Respect Boundaries: Everyone needs personal space. Respect your roommate’s need for quiet study time or downtime. Communicate your needs as well – maybe you need the room quiet by a particular hour for a good night’s sleep.
Focus on Compromise: Finding a perfect solution might not be possible. Be willing to compromise and meet each other halfway. You may agree to alternate late nights or designate specific areas for each other’s belongings.
Seek Mediation (if needed): If communication breaks down, consider involving a neutral third party – your Resident Advisor (RA) or a trusted friend. They can help facilitate a conversation and mediate a solution for both of you.
Remember, It’s Temporary: While it might feel like an eternity now, this situation is temporary. Focus on developing communication skills and coping mechanisms to benefit you throughout life, even beyond this specific roommate situation.
Here are some additional tips:
- Find Common Ground: Look for shared interests or activities you can enjoy together, even if it’s just occasionally watching a movie or grabbing a meal.
- Maintain Boundaries: Having separate friend groups and social lives is okay. Respect each other’s need for personal space.
- Focus on the Positive: Acknowledge your roommate’s good qualities and appreciate what they do contributes to a positive living environment.
Living with someone requires effort and adjustment. By prioritising communication, compromise, and respect, you can navigate a difficult roommate situation and create a surprisingly harmonious living space.