Next Up. Student Success!: Recent Episodes

Norfolk State University

Tips, Tools and Takes on Academics

(sponsored by the Office of Academic Engagement)

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Tune in for a preview of NSU's inaugural Stith Retention Conference (March 30 - 31, 2022). Inspired and supported by Dr. Patricia Lynch Stith and her husband, Dr. Melvin Stith, this experience will celebrate "Remarkable Resilience: Translating Trials to Triumphs." Don't miss this awesome opportunity to learn, connect and be inspired to support student success.

TO REGISTER

Also, the podcast team is excited to contribute to this conference by broadcasting LIVE at different times on both days. Register and stay tuned!

This episode was produced by Mr. Jordan, with assistance from Dr. Mebane. Hosting is led by Mr. Jordan with participation by Dr. Mebane and Mr. Watkins. Photo credit: L to R. Dr. Mebane, Mr. Jordan and Mr. Watkins. Screenshot taken by Dr. Mebane.

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In this episode, meet Mr. Shaquille Jordan (not a type), a new producer and host for the podcast. We are excited to welcome him to our team and share his passion for creating and producing creative content.

Welcome, Mr. Jordan!

[This episode was produced and hosted by Dr. Mebane. Photo: L to R. Dr. Mebane, Mr. Watkins and Mr. Jordan].

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The NSU Writing Center, located on the first floor of the library, is an important tool for all NSU students (including graduate students) writing about all topics (including creative projects). In this session, you can meet the Director of this Center, Ms. Street, and learn more about their services.

Top tip?

Avoid waiting until the last minute to ask for assistance. Writing consultants can help you from the first to the last stage of your writing, including pre-writing (described in this episode).

[ Photo credit: L to R . Dr. Mebane and Ms. Street. Screenshot taken by Dr. Mebane ]

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Part two of the start of season three of the podcast features hosts Dr. Mebane and Mr. Watkins. For new listeners, they talk about their background and interests and share tips for starting the semester, with a focus on seniors and first time freshmen.

Top Tips?

If you plan to graduate this academic year, start networking, looking for and applying to jobs. If you are new to NSU or not graduating, stay focused! 

[ Photo credit: L to R . Dr. Mebane and Mr. Watkins. Screenshot taken by Dr. Mebane ]

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In this episode, Dr. Mebane and Dr. Neal open the semester with introductions (for new listeners) and tips and tools for starting the semester.

Top tip?

Adapt and adjust. The COVID-19 pandemic is not the only situation that might affect your college career. With support from offices across campus, students can learn how to be resilient and be the solution to success for others.

Welcome or welcome back, and good luck!

[ Photo credit: L to R . Dr. Mebane and Dr. Neal. Screenshot taken by Dr. Mebane ]

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May / June is a special time of the year for many college students and their families. In this episode, Dr. Andrea Neal - Associate Vice Provost, Office of Academic Engagement - join Dr. Mebane and Mr. Watkins in congratulating all graduates for their achievements. We BEHOLD your accomplishments and are so proud of you!!

And, if you are not graduating this year, congratulations for ending the semester, and don't forget about all of the academic resources available to you this summer, some of which are featured in this episode (including this podcast).

Stay tuned!

[ Photo credit: L to R . Mr. Watkins, Dr. Neal and Dr. Mebane. Screenshot taken by Dr. Mebane ]

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Inspired by Dr. Glenn Carrington, the NSU Innovation Center is a relatively new addition to NSU's portfolio of creative resources for campus and community. In this episode, Ms. Akosua Acheamponmaa, the Center's Director, shares her take on the Center as a tool for entrepreneurs and tips for business and other types of success. 

[ Photo credit: L to R . Ms. Acheamponmaa and Dr. Mebane. Screenshot taken by Dr. Mebane ]

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This episode features Dr. Mebane and Mr. Watkin's takes on the previous topic of intentionality. Whether you have just completed a semester or your entire degree program, be sure to stay focused on your purpose as motivation for your success.

[ Photo credit: L to R . Mr. Watkins and Dr. Mebane. Screenshot taken by Dr. Mebane ]

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Once again, Dr. Rhonda Fitzgerald shares her takes on how to finish the semester on the right note. Her main advice? Make an extra effort to stay focused and maintain your energy even when you are tired. And, don't forget that good grades require you to study and practice. 

Looking for other tips and tools related to final exams? Search for Dr. Fitzgerald on this site to check out her previous episodes.

[ Photo credit: L to R . Mr. Watkins, Dr. Fitzgerald and Dr. Mebane. Screenshot taken by Dr. Mebane ]

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Join Dr. Mebane and Mr. Watkins as they meet Mr. Clarence Harris to discuss what it takes to succeed in accounting classes and why they are important for (almost) everyone. Mr. Harris' takes on tips and tools reflect his perspective as a CPA, adjunct professor and rapper. Stay tuned after the credits for some awesome bars (IYKYK) about real estate and how they can be used to help students understand technical terms and complex ideas. 

[ Photo credit: L to R: Mr. Harris, Mr. Watkins and Dr. Mebane. Screenshot taken by Dr. Mebane ]

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In this next take, Dr. Mebane and Mr. Watkins recommend tips and tools (or resources) for making decisions about dropping a class late in a semester. In sum, consider the consequences, work with your instructor and take steps to avoid the need (as much as possible.)

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In this episode, Dr. Quincy Dinnerson and Maleik Watkins (NSU junior and podcast co-host) have a candid conversation about challenges African American men face when pursuing higher education and how they can overcome them. Dr. Dinnerson is a professor at the Ethelyn R. Strong School of Social Work at NSU whose research and practice focuses on African American men and their experiences. Dr. Dinnerson and Mr. Watkins are joined by Dr. Mebane (Executive Producer and co-host).

(photo credit: Dr. Mebane; L to R: Dr. Dinnerson, Mr. Watkins and Dr. Mebane)

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Celebrate the one-year anniversary (March 23, 2021) of the Next Up. Student Success! podcast with Dr. Mebane and current co-host - Mr. Maleik Watkins - and former co-host, alum and special guest - Ms.Tresstin White. It's our 54th episode overall, and we are still thrilled to be a resource for students and connection to faculty, staff and students across campus.

Stay tuned for new episodes now posted on #TipsTuesdays. 

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Thank you to Mr. Theophilus Clark for joining the podcast, again, to showcase tools that students can use to help their success. Whether you are a freshman or senior, learning assistance is readily available for students who are being intentional and proactive with their success. Stay tuned for new episodes now posted on #TipsTuesdays. 

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Yes, it's that time again: 5th week grades check in. Every semester, students are encouraged to review their grades early in the semester so that they can make adjustments in time to make progress. Whether you have a good grade that you want to be better or need to improve to pass a class, listen in for tip and tools to end the semester on the best possible notes...grades. Stay tuned for new episodes now posted on #TipsTuesdays. 

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As a follow up to our summer self care series, Dr. Burwell joins us again for a reminder of tips and tools for dealing with stress and the pandemic. Dr. Burwell is a longstanding member of the NSU community with a focus on health promotion and reducing health disparities. She has also lead learning communities focused on health since they started on campus year ago. Dr. Burwell is passionate about student support and continuing to help NSU students and our communities. Stay tuned for new episodes now posted on #TipsTuesdays. 

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I am SO excited to introduce the podcast's newest host...Maleik Watkins! Mr. Watkins is a junior, political science major who is on his way to achieving the highest level of goals. Listen to this episode to meet the newest student co-host of the Next Up. Student Success! podcast.

Stay tuned for new episodes now posted on #TipsTuesdays. 

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Meet Mr. Jeremiah O'Bryant, the president of NSU's Student Government Association for 2020-21. In this episode, Mr. O'Bryant showcases his SGA team and some of what they plan to do in Spring 2021 to support students. He also reminds students to take time to plan and not procrastinate and encourages seniors to celebrate and appreciate their accomplishments. Stay tuned for new episodes now posted on #TipsTuesdays. 

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Welcome (new students), and welcome back (everyone else)! In this episode, Ms. Sheryll Heard - Executive Director (I), Student Success Center - reminds listeners of tips for starting a new semester online and the variety of resources (tools) offered by the Office of Academic Engagements for freshmen and sophomores (especially).  Stay tuned for new episodes now posted on #TipsTuesdays.  

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Congratulations to all seniors graduating from Norfolk State University in 2020, including December graduate Ms. Tresstin White! In this episode, Ms. White shares her take on lessons learned from her NSU experience and special connections with faculty and staff. Dr. Mebane spotlights Ms. White's amazing contributions to the Next Up. Student Success! podcast and thanks Ms. White for collaborating to launch this new project. Stay tuned for the podcast's next episode in January 2021. 

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One advantage of the pandemic is that students have a longer winter break...more time to work on their writing skills! In this episode, Ms. Theresa Street (Norfolk State University's new Writing Center Director) share tips and tools on fun ways to improve writing, including approaches that are not just about more writing. Tune in and join the #WordOfTheDay challenge (starting December 1)!    

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It's finals prep time, again. At Norfolk State University, the condensed fall 2020 semester ends in the next few weeks. In this episode, returning guest Dr. Rhonda Fitzgerald, a professor in the Mathematics Department, shares tips on how to #FocusToFinish strong. Whether you have final exams or final projects, her takes on study cycles, how to choose whether or not to take the pass / fail grade option and more are valuable.   

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In summer of 2020, Norfolk State University welcomed a new Provost: Dr. DoVeanna Fulton. Dr. Fulton is a business trained academic and leader who is passionate about the pursuit of academic excellence and providing student experiences that help them develop knowledge and skills and learn about themselves. Tune in to meet one of the newest additions to our Spartan family! 

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We are putting a new spin on our focus on success tips by launching a new type of segment called "Take Two." Each "Take Two" episode will feature podcast co-hosts focusing solely on one tip mentioned in a previous episode. Each feature will be relatively short and also share new information and links to online resources. With our second “Take Two” episode, we discussed the Pomodoro Study Method. This approach is a great technique for studying smarter instead of harder, which was the focus on Season Two, Episode Six. The Pomodoro Method (which may have other names and can be modified) encourages students to study in small increments in order to better retain the information and prepare for taking timed exams. Tune in to learn about a new technique for success (especially before finals).   

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Yes, this "Bored in the Dorm" episode was inspired by the "Bored in the House" Tik Tok sensation. Because, one way to thrive in these unique times and circumstances is to have some fun, even when you are focused on your academic success! Because of the pandemic, many students are stuck in their dorms alone to ensure the safety of people around them. Due to the lack of physical interaction that is usually a highlight of a college campus experience, some students are experiencing “cabin fever" or a lack of focus on academics or too much procrastination.  This episode features peer leaders who know a lot about what students on campus deal with and how they can overcome those challenges: resident assistants. Listen in to meet Zoe, Chris, Passion and Shaneen and their tips, tools and takes on preventing and minimizing boredom in the dorms.

NOTE: All of their advice and insights apply if you are bored in the house or apartment, too! 

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Starting with this episode, we are putting a new spin on our focus on success tips by launching a new type of segment called "Take Two." Each "Take Two" episode will feature podcast co-hosts focusing solely on one tip mentioned in a previous episode. Each feature will be relatively short and also share new information and links to online resources. In our first "Take Two" episode, Dr. Mebane and Ms. White talked about study groups, a tip mentioned in the five week check in episode with Dr. Khadijah Miller. Study groups are a great way for students to interact with each other, develop collaboration skills and, most importantly, pass the class together. Tune in to learn more about pros and cons (yes, there can be challenges) and the importance of how they are organized. 

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College students preparing to be professional artists, scholars, business leaders, policymakers, researcher, etc. look for role models who can mentor them as they prepare to work within their particular fields. This episode features Dr. Jason Demeter, an Assistant Professor in the Department of English and Foreign Languages at Norfolk State University. Dr. Demeter was recommended to be a guest by NSU student (at the time), Mikayah Henderson. Ms. Henderson really appreciated Dr. Demeter's Shakespeare class and how he supported her and other students. Using his own experience as a graduate student and passion for helping students as a framework, Dr. Demeter shares his perspective on mentoring and academic success, including tips for finding the right mentor to fit your interest.  

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With all that’s going on in the world, we wanted to highlight the importance of voting and making a change. Our special guest is Dr. Khadijah Miller, a professor of interdisciplinary studies and a senior faculty fellow for the Honors College. This episode identifies why you should vote  and the impact it has on the world. 

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Last week (in episode 18), we checked in with students to see how they are doing five weeks into the fall 2020 semester, and we received a lot of feedback. For this episode, as we the fifth week ends, we checked in with a faculty member's perspective on how to keep up the great work or improve your learning experience (and grades) for the remainder of the semester. Our special guest for this episode is Dr. Khadijah Miller, a professor of in the department of History & Interdisciplinary Studies, a senior faculty fellow for the Honors College and a former department chair. Dr. Miller shares her take on the tips and tools for this time of the academic year.

NOTE: Special thanks to Dr. Miller for being our guest on the six month anniversary of the podcast!  

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It's week five of the fall 2020 academic semester here at Norfolk State University. In previous semester, the Student Success center would host a fifth week grade celebration in the Nursing and General Education building to draw attention to students' progress. With physical distancing being the new normal, events and programs are different. So, we decided to complement their focus with one of our own. For this week’s episode, we reached out to students on social media to check in or see how they are doing. The first three students to respond to us were Za’Chary Jackson, Jamie McCullar and Jennifer Wiggins. This week's episode features them and our tips and tools related to their experience. To be part of this episode, send us your videos and check ins all week. You can DM us on social media, use nextup.studentsuccess at gmail.com or use the Contact Us page on the website. We will post a video compilation to the podcast's YouTube site on Sunday, September 27, 2020. We look forward to hearing from you.  

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Emotions, such as what we might feel when we are overwhelmed, typically define who we are and can influence the outcome of different experiences. There are over 27 different kinds of feelings and as complex humans, we are able to experience more than one at a time. Being overwhelmed happens to everyone at some point in time. With the current circumstances students are facing, many are experiencing being overwhelmed and are not sure how to face it. This episode features Dr. Melody Williams, a current professor in the Department of English and Foreign Languages at Norfolk State University. Dr. Mel shares her experience with feeling overwhelmed, how she handles it and advice for students when they are facing  struggles. Tune in for some peace of mind. 

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Whether online or on campus, etiquette helps professors and students establish expectations for engagement. Now that online learning is the “new normal,” tune in to discover how to be successful with your own class management and start your professional development and why it is important. This episode features Dr. Denelle Wallace, Associate Dean for the School of Education. Part of her expertise is teaching prospective teachers how to work with students to create productive and respectful environments that support learning. 

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As a student, when deadlines come up within the university, we receive countless emails reminding us to plan ahead and be responsible for our academic plans. One reminder we receive each semester includes the add or drop date for classes. Many times, we see the date and are not completely sure about how to make the best decisions for our academic plan.This episode explains in depth the purpose of adding and dropping classes and the benefits or downfalls that could potentially happen. This episode starts with a conversation between the hosts, Dr. Mebane and Ms. White, who focus on tips and takes. To make sure that they covered the key points, they talked with Ms. Ashley Vaughn before the recording. Ms. Vaughn is a academic advisor in the Dr. Patricia Lynch Stith Student Success Center. Make sure to tune in and add any classes for fall 2020 by September 4th. 

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This episode on yoga and meditation is the final one in the podcast's Learning Communities Self-Care Series for summer 2020. All of the episodes share tips for reducing stress, supporting good health and setting yourself up for academic success. Whether you are a student or faculty or staff member, we hope that you will use this series to start or enhance a commitment to your own care. In this session, Dr. Kathleen Thomas talks about her experience with yoga and breathing exercises inside and outside the classroom. she also notes tools and the importance of self care in the current, larger pandemic and political environment. shares the importance of sleep for your health, academic success and livelihood. Listen for tips and tools for good sleeping habits. Dr. Thomas is an Associate Professor in the Department of Health, Physical Education and Exercise Science with expertise in "Motor Control/Learning of Posture and Locomotion, Kinesiology, Injury and Rehabilitation and Biomechanics." 

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In this Learning Communities Self-Care Series episode, Ms. LeKenya Skelton shares the importance of sleep for your health, academic success and livelihood. Listen for tips and tools for good sleeping habits. Ms. Skelton is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who supports students as a resource in the NSU Counseling Center.  

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Academic plans are vital when it comes to mapping out your course loads and timeframe for earning your degree. However, some students do not have a clear idea of what it is or how important it is for student success. Our special guest this episode is none other than Dr. Malikah Abdullah (Chair and Associate Professor of the Biology Department at Norfolk State University). Dr. Abdullah provides a full explanation of what an academic plan is and how it affects you as a student and tips and tools for how to create one and use it to earn your degree. 

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Welcome to another special segment of the Learning Communities series focused on self-care. This session features a mediation moment focused on mindfulness presented by Ms. Shana Simmons. Ms. Simmons, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the NSU Counseling Center, shares tips, tools and her take on mindfulness by leading listeners on a guided meditation. Join us for this demonstration. And,  bookmark this episode and utilize this information in between classes, before or after an exam and before you go to sleep. 

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Welcome to a special segment of the Learning Communities series focused on meditation as a part of self-care. This session features how to work on establishing mindfulness and is presented by Ms. Cheniqua Goode.  Ms. Goode, a Licensed Professional Counselor with the NSU Counseling Center, shares tips, tools and her take on being present through deep breathing. Join us for this demonstration. And, bookmark this episode and utilize this information between classes, before or after an exam and before you go to sleep. Stay tuned for part 2.  

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In this Learning Communities Self-Care Series episode, Ms. Arkitia Pegram-Crawley shares easy to access and important advice on being present and intentional. Listen in for tips and tools that you can begin to use now to build good habits for managing stress, including disappointments. Whether you will be new to NSU this fall or returning for your last year, this content will be informative and helpful. Ms. Crawley is a Licensed Professional Counselor who supports students as a resource in the NSU Counseling Center. Stay tuned for two follow up episodes in which two of her colleagues help us practice her recommendations. 

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With so much going on in the world, it will be a real challenge for students to stay focused on study when classes return this fall. Some classes will be online. In-person classes will require new public health pre-cautions. Spaces will not be available for larger groups. Sports and other events will not be the same. Family and friends make be affected by COVID-19. And, students still have to take classes. This special episode highlights a panel of student leaders who we asked to share academic advice on staying focused and making distraction free zones that students can think about before classes start. Our student panel consists of Ms. Jamie Turner (a recent May 2020 graduate from Virginia), Ms. Symone Thomas (a current senior from Texas) and Ms.Serenity Magee (a current sophomore from North Carolina). Make sure to tune in for their tips, tools and takes on what works. 

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Welcome to the fourth episode of a special Learning Communities series of Next Up. focused on self-care. This session features insights and advice on Kinesthetic Learning: Blending Spiritual and Physical Wellness. Dr. Tarin Hampton is a Professor and the Chair of the Department of Health, Physical Education & Exercise Science and a community leader on and off campus. She is also our special guest for this episode. Dr. Hampton shares insights on maintaining your true self within the college environment based on her experience as a dancer, educator and spiritual leader. Don't miss this uplifting episode.  

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Many times when students hear the word "study," the first emotion to rise is dread. Studying is often correlated with long hours and hassle. In this episode, Dr. Thomas F. Lewis (an Assistant Professor of Accounting for the School of Business) shares his perspective on studying, preparing for class and having the right mindset from a faculty point of view. Tune in for awesome advice on studying smarter instead of harder. 

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Did you know that there is a greenhouse on-campus? Welcome to the third episode of a special Learning Communities series focused on self-care. This session features insights and advice on Gardening 101 (including taking care of plants in your home or apartment) for food and relaxation and shines light on our greenhouse. Dr. Stephen Via, Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology is our special guest. He shares tips and tools, including utilizing odd or cheap (his word) sources to get started. Contact Dr. Stephen Via at smvia@nsu.edu for a tour of the greenhouse or to see if you can reserve a spot for your plans. Learn more about the Food Access and Advocacy Learning Community here.    

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Welcome to the second episode of a special Learning Communities series focused on self-care. This series features insights and advice on a variety of topics and success habits well-suited for the summer, when you have plenty of time to get started on the tips and tools for success before classes start in the fall.

This session is our second take on a concept called the Superwoman Schema, also featured in Episode 17 in Season One. In sum, research in social work and public health practice revealed a phenomena of women, especially women of color, feeling obligated to take care of everyone and be successful at everything, even when they are stressed and tired. This can be especially true for students who are supporting their families and focusing on college. Join us as Ms. Felisa Smith, Nursing Instructor in the Department of Nursing and Allied Health, shares her take on this dynamic based on her expertise and experience. She follows up with a variety of tips and tools for how students can take care of themselves and facilitate academic success. 

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While in college, undergraduate students can be conflicted about what to do next. The future can seem to be a scary thing due to uncertainty. However, with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be. This episode features Dr. Desideria Hacker (Assistant Dean, School of Graduate Studies and Research at Norfolk State University). Tune in to hear helpful advice on focusing on your purpose and having an approach for mapping out options and pursing them. 

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In life, we sometimes have to decide between taking a risk and losing an opportunity all together. Sometimes that risk involves money, which is a huge factor when it comes to earning a college degree. This episode features Ms. Keisha Woodous, the Assistant Director for Client Services in the Office of Financial Aid. Ms. Woodous explains how taking a chance on applying for scholarships and networking can pay off big time. Be sure to tune in with a pen and pad to take notes on what you can do now to prepare for scholarship applications due later this year and early next year! 

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Season two starts with a two part episode focused on the best of season one and ideas and plans for season two. This season we promise to build on our success and try new approaches. For example, our very first segment of the new academic year features two students: Tresstin White, a podcast producer and host, and Mikyah Henderson, a senior English major. In the second segment, Dr. Mebane continues her conversation with Dr. Andrea Neal, Associate Vice Provost for the Office of Academic Engagement. 

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The first season of Next Up. Student Success! encompassed many topics, discussions and guests. We officially launched on March 23, 2020 and hit the ground running ever since. In this episode, each of the three current producers reflects on their experience from Season One.

Today (June 28, 2020) we will talk about our favorite episodes from Season One. Let us know about yours! 

There are a lot of thank you for faculty and staff participants! And, thank you to all of our listeners! One of the most popular episodes from our first season was on finals preparation. We look forward to a new season with a continued focus on practical tips for each phase of each semester. 

Season Two starts on July 5, 2020.

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Almost any experience in life can lead to learning lessons, including setbacks. Many times when people have a setback, the situation is not what stops them. What stops them is the inability or lack of motivation to find a way to overcome the situation. We are all human, so, setbacks happen.This episode delivers tips, tools and takes for turning current setbacks into future success. Our special guest is none other than Ms. Meshea K. Vann, the Director of NSU's Office of Transfer Admissions and Services. Tune in to hear Ms. Vann’s personal experience with a major setback and encouraging advice for following your dreams.  

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Welcome to the first episode of a special Learning Communities series focused on self-care. Produced and hosted by Ms. Angel Eason (with an assist from Dr. Mebane), this series features insights and advice on a variety of topics and success habits well-suited for the summer, when you have plenty of time to get started on the tips and tools for success before classes start in the fall. This episode focuses on a concept called the Superwoman Schema. In sum, research in social work and public health practice revealed the phenomena of women, especially women of color, feeling obligated to take care of everyone and be successful at everything, even when they are stressed and tired. This can be especially true for students who are supporting their families and focusing on college. Join us as Dr. Breshell Nevels, Master of Social Work Program Director, shares her take on this dynamic based on her expertise and experience. She follows up with a variety of tips for how students can take care of themselves, too.  

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College students preparing to be professional artists, scholars, business leaders, policymakers, etc. rely on faculty members to mentor them as they prepare to work within their particular fields. Some of our best role models for mentoring (specifically) and academic leadership (in general) are our department chairs. This episode features Dr. Olusoji Akomolafe, the Chair of Political Science Department at Norfolk State University. Dr. Akomolafe shares his take on mentoring, academic success within HBCU’s and the reward of seeing students excel. He also talks about his background and the importance of civic engagement.

NOTE: We know that many of us are grieving, angry and anxious due to the trauma of seeing and hearing about lives that were taken too soon by police brutality and racism. We love our community, so, we felt the need to connect this episode to current events sparked, in part, by the murder of George Floyd on Memorial Day, 2020.  United we stand. #BlackLivesMatter #KnowledgeIsPower 

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Our success approach is to begin this series on starting success habits by focusing on a major one: procrastination. When thinking about a common that needs to be improved, procrastination is the first to come to mind and one of the most popular challenges among students. This episode features our first department chair: Dr. Larry Ferguson. As the chair for Secondary Education and School Leadership in the School of Education, Dr. Ferguson has wonderful advice for both faculty and students concerning how to keep students motivated and focused. Tune in to hear stellar advice for your journey of self improvement through Dr. Ferguson’s captivating narrative.

CORRECTION: Dr. Ferguson is the second faculty member from the School of Education to be featured on this podcast. Dr. Burwell ("Meet Learning Communities") is based in the department of Exercise Science in the School of Education. 

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Welcome to the start of our summertime episodes! Tune in each week to have some fun while we help you create or enhance great habits you can use when you return to the classroom. Effective (planning, study, time management, wellness, social, etc.) habits can help you succeed on campus, especially in classes. And, you shouldn't wait until 5th week or mid-term grades to put them into place. In this episode, we get you started on having a fun AND productive summer. 

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This episode is a special and unique tribute to NSU's May 2020 graduates. For insight into the NSU experience, listen to inspirational and heartfelt thank you and congratulatory messages. As our Student Government Association emphasized this year, being at NSU is a family affair and these messages showcase that.

Guests May 2020 Graduates (in order) Linei Woodson, SGA President, 2019-20, Amari Holmes, Nile Price Ja'Quan Jones, Patsy Douglas, Elisha Chestnut, Kelvin Shubert, Lathea Robinson, Ceara Warren, Charmoni Turner, Devin Jefferson, Jacqueline Horton, Lakeshia Whitley, Shervonne Banks, Sharon Young, MSW and Tia Monet Flores. Office of Academic Engagement (in order of congratulations) Dr. Andrea Neal, Associate Vice Provost, Ms. Sheryll Heard, Mr. Theophilus Clark, Dr. Robin Marable, Ms. Carrie Brown, Ms. Kyra Amos and Ms. Angel Eason.

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The 2019-20 academic year was unique for many reasons, including and not only because of, the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout the ups and downs of this semester, Norfolk State University students benefited from the exemplary leadership of this year's Student Government Association president, Ms. Linei Woodson. Ms. Woodson was a steady, strong and strategic advocate for the student body and never lost sight of the ultimate goal: to earn a degree. Join us for this special feature on Ms. Woodson as she talks about her experiences and legacy and shares a special message for the close of this academic year.  

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If you don't know about learning communities, start with this episode. Meet coordinators, an engaged student and active faculty participants. Preview: These communities organize students in small groups with similar interests who live and learn together for the first year. Students are supported inside and outside the classroom with special activities, mentors and more. Learn more on the NSU website: Learning Communities. Guests Ms. Angel Eason, Learning Communities Program Coordinator Ms. Kiara Edge, undergraduate student Dr. Eriksen, professor and LC faculty liaison Dr. Burwell, faculty coordinator for an LC 

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Located on the first floor of the Lyman Beecher Brooks Library, the Writing Center is an invaluable resource for all NSU students. Whether consultants (or professional tutors) meet with students one-on-one or in groups as part of a class, they support the creation of content on all subjects, including resumes and scholarship applications. It this episode, we host several of the people who provide writing support services. Guests: Ms. Carrie Brown, Coordinator, Mr. Ahmasi O'Daniel, Consultant, Ms. Keela Boose, Consultant, Ms. Ramal Johnson, Consultant 

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One of Next Up's goals is to introduce students to the offices and other resources on campus that promote student success. This segment (a little longer than usual) is the first of an ongoing series of special episodes in which you meet faculty and staff who support academics. In this episode, we feature three fabulous guests, including Ms. Sheryll Heard, the Program Manager, Mr. Theophilus Clark, Associate Director of Learning Assistance Programs, and Ms. Khadijah Brown, Professional Advisor. Tune in to learn more about our stellar leadership teams and the valuable tools that the Center offer (with a focus on freshmen and sophomores). 

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Preparing for final projects and exams is known to be one of the most stressful times in the semester for students. And, this semester has even more stressors because of COVID-19. This episode is geared to helping students succeed throughout this time. Dr. Rhonda Fitzgerald is an Associate Professor within the Mathematics department at Norfolk State University. Dr. Fitzgerald is a pro at flipping the classroom to teach college students and received her certificate for online teaching in December 2019. Tune into this session for motivation, tips and tools for ending the semester strong! 

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One of the main objectives of college is preparation for the workforce. This episode encompasses the transitional period students experience from education to occupation. Listen in to our conversation with Ms. Alisha L. Bazemore, the Director of Career Services. Ms. Bazemore offers great advice on professionalism, networking and demeanor within the workplace. 

Special note: during this time of uncharted territory (covid19), you may encounter some sections of our sessions with a bad connection. Please be gracious during this time.

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Professors are the backbone of students' academic experience. Whether on campus or online, they provide knowledge and skills that form the basis for jobs, careers, community service and more. This episode features our first full-time professor guest: Dr. Erica Russell, Associate Professor, Psychology Department. Dr. Russell shares some of her experience and lessons learned from teaching online classes that were not online classes and tips for good mental health. 

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In this episode, Ms. White and Dr. Mebane continue the discussion about weathering the COVID-19 storm. They chat and about tips, tools and takes after week one of online classes at Norfolk State University. Our goal? To say focused and intentional with our goals and use of time. 

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Like universities around the world, Norfolk State will deliver all classes online in response to COVID-19 (coronavirus). This episode features Dr. Andrea Neal, Associate Vice Provost of Academic Engagement, who offers tips, tools and takes on what students can do to succeed from home, including being proactive and focusing on how they learn best. 

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In the first week of March (well before social isolation was required on campus), Dr. Marable and her team organized a Career Pop Up for Norfolk State University freshmen. Listen is to hear what students learned and how faculty contributed. 

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Each semester, the staff of NSU's Student Success Center celebrate good and great 5th (and 10th) week grades. In this episode, honored students share academic tips and tools that help them succeed and their take on this event.

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Meet Tresstin White and Dr. Felicia Mebane, two women in different stages of their careers who are passionate about helping Norfolk State University students (any college student) succeed...on time. Listen in on their very first episode. 

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Have you ever met someone who is super good at EVERYTHING? Me, neither. However, my sister comes really close. Dr. Sheryl Mebane earned a PhD in Physical Chemistry from Berkeley AND is a musician (actor, poet). She composed the theme music that sets off Next Up. Student Success!. Here is the full, unedited version. Listen and enjoy!