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.
5 Ways to Personalize Your Dorm Room
Personalizing your dorm room is a fantastic way to create a home away from home during your college experience. It’s an opportunity to express your personality, make the space more comfortable, and help you feel more relaxed and motivated.
Here are five creative ways to personalize your dorm room and make it uniquely yours:
Decorate with personal photos and Art:
One of the simplest and most meaningful ways to personalize your dorm room is by incorporating personal photos and artwork. Fill your walls with framed pictures of friends, family, and special memories. You can create a gallery wall featuring photographs, paintings, and posters that reflect your interests and style. Whether it’s a snapshot from your last summer vacation or a cherished family portrait, these images will instantly make your dorm feel like home.
Use versatile and colorful bedding:
Your bed is the focal point of your dorm room, and your choice of bedding can significantly impact the overall aesthetic. Opt for bedding that complements your personal style and color preferences. You can easily switch out your bedding to match the seasons or your mood, giving your room a fresh look without significant renovations.
Incorporate decorative pillows and throws:
Consider using decorative pillows and throws to add a cozy and personalized touch to your dorm room. These accessories enhance your room’s overall design and provide extra comfort and warmth. Choose pillows and throws in various textures, patterns, and colors to match your style. Whether you opt for fluffy faux fur pillows, boho-chic tapestry throws, or trendy geometric patterns, these elements can make your dorm feel more inviting and comfortable.
Organize with storage solutions:
A well-organized dorm room looks more inviting and helps create a conducive environment for studying and relaxation. Personalize your space by investing in practical and stylish storage solutions. Consider under-bed storage bins, bookshelves, wall-mounted organizers, and decorative baskets. Use these items to store your textbooks, clothing, and other belongings while maintaining an organized, clutter-free space. Personalizing storage containers with labels, patterns, or colors can add a personal touch to your room.
Create a functional workspace:
For many college students, their dorm room serves as a living space and a study area. Personalize your workspace by selecting a desk and chair that are functional and fit your design preferences. Add desk accessories like a stylish lamp, inspirational quotes, or a vision board to make the space feel uniquely yours. Personalizing your workspace can help boost productivity and make studying more enjoyable.
Personalizing your dorm room is an exciting and creative endeavor that can transform a generic living space into a unique reflection of your personality and style. By decorating with personal photos and artwork, choosing versatile bedding, adding decorative elements, organizing with storage solutions, and creating a functional workspace, you can turn your dorm room into a cozy and inspiring environment that feels like home.
What to Know As Student Loan Repayments Begin Soon
If you’re a student loan borrower, you must know that student loan repayments will begin soon after the temporary forbearance period ends. Understanding your repayment options and responsibilities is crucial in the evolving landscape of student loans.
Review Your Loan Details:
Before repayments begin, take the time to review the details of your student loans. Know the types of loans you have, the interest rates, and the total outstanding balance. The U.S. Department of Education’s StudentAid.gov website is a valuable resource to access your loan information.
Understand the End of Forbearance:
The temporary forbearance period, initially implemented due to the COVID-19 pandemic, has been extended multiple times. However, staying updated on the latest announcements regarding the end of forbearance is crucial. Make sure to verify the current status to avoid any surprises.
Prepare Your Budget:
Assess your financial situation and create a budget that accommodates your student loan payments. Knowing how much you’ll need to allocate for loan repayments will help you manage your finances effectively.
Explore Repayment Plans:
Federal student loans offer various repayment plans, including income-driven, extended, and standard repayment plans. Research these options to determine which aligns best with your financial situation and goals.
Loan Forgiveness Programs:
Depending on your career and loan type, you may be eligible for loan forgiveness programs such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or Teacher Loan Forgiveness. Understand the requirements and consider whether these programs apply to your situation.
Automatic Payments and Discounts:
Many lenders offer interest rate discounts if you enroll in automatic payments. This can help lower your overall interest costs. Check with your loan servicer to see if this option is available.
Communication with Loan Servicer:
Maintain open communication with your loan servicer. If you experience financial difficulties, contact them to discuss options like deferment, forbearance, or income-driven repayment plans.
Avoid Default:
Defaulting on student loans can have serious consequences, including damage to your credit score and wage garnishment. Make timely payments or explore alternatives to ensure you don’t fall behind.
As student loan repayments restart, being well-informed and proactive is essential. Review your loan details, stay updated on the end of forbearance, prepare your budget, explore repayment plans, and consider loan forgiveness programs. Additionally, take advantage of discounts and communicate with your loan servicer to ensure a smooth repayment journey. By staying informed and taking appropriate actions, you can manage your student loans effectively while maintaining your financial well-being.
Tips for Using Your Time Strategically in College
The college experience, while rewarding, can often be an overwhelming whirlwind of classes, social events, work commitments, and personal responsibilities. To excel and make the most out of these transformative years, mastering the art of time management is crucial.
- Prioritize Your Tasks:
Start by categorizing your tasks based on their urgency and importance. The Eisenhower Box, also known as the Urgent-Important Matrix, can be beneficial. This matrix divides tasks into four categories:
- Urgent and Important: Do these immediately.
- Not Urgent but Important: Schedule these.
- Urgent but Not Important: Delegate or minimize these.
- Neither Urgent nor Important: Reconsider or eliminate these.
By distinguishing tasks this way, you can allocate time more effectively and avoid last-minute panic.
- Break Tasks into Manageable Chunks:
Instead of viewing an assignment as a monumental task, break it into smaller components. This approach, often called the “Pomodoro Technique,” entails working intensively for a set period, say 25 minutes, then taking a 5-minute break. Repeat the cycle. This not only maintains your focus but also provides regular intervals to refresh.
- Utilize Technology Wisely:
Modern technology offers many tools and apps designed to assist with time management. Platforms like Google Calendar, Trello, and Todoist can be life savers. Use them to set reminders, create to-do lists, and track deadlines. However, remember to strike a balance. Social media and other digital distractions can quickly consume hours if not kept in check.
- Set Clear Goals and Deadlines:
A clear vision of your goal by the end of the semester or year can guide your daily and weekly priorities. Once you set overarching goals, break them into smaller milestones with deadlines. This approach provides a roadmap for the future while keeping you accountable in the present.
- Stay Organized:
Whether you’re a digital native or a fan of old-school notebooks, an organized system is essential to track assignments, readings, and exam dates. Review your system weekly and adjust as needed. An organized system minimizes the risk of overlooking vital tasks and eases the stress of cramming.
- Learn to Say “No”:
While college is a time to explore new opportunities, overextending can lead to burnout and hinder academic progress. Deciding on certain social events or extracurriculars is okay if it means preserving your well-being and focusing on your primary objectives.
- Attend to Your Well-being:
It might seem counterintuitive, but sometimes, the best thing you can do for your productivity is to take a break. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques like meditation are all essential. When your body and mind peak, your efficiency and focus will naturally follow.
- Establish a Routine:
Consistency can be a powerful tool in managing your time. Setting specific times for study, meals, exercise, and relaxation can bring structure to your day. Not only does a routine reduce decision fatigue, but it also ensures that important tasks don’t fall through the cracks. For example, if you habitually study at 6 p.m. every evening, you’ll be mentally prepared to dive into your work day.
- Utilize Campus Resources:
Most colleges and universities offer many resources to help students manage their time. Assistance from academic advisors and tutoring centers to time management workshops is likely available. Be bold about reaching out; these resources exist to help you succeed.
- Reflect and Adjust:
Your strategies for time management at the start of college might need tweaking as you progress. It’s essential to regularly reflect on what’s working and what isn’t. You may be more productive studying in the morning than in the evening, or not the type for group study sessions. You can make the necessary adjustments to optimize your time by periodically assessing your habits.
College is a unique, enriching phase of life, offering opportunities for growth inside and outside the classroom. You can savor these years by approaching them with strategic time management while laying a robust foundation for future endeavors. Remember, it’s not always about working harder but often about working smarter. With these strategies, you’re well-equipped to make the most of every moment in your college journey.