Whether it’s addressing a conflict with a friend, providing constructive feedback at work, or discussing sensitive topics with family members, difficult conversations are inevitable. Especially at work, where you must continue to work together smoothly and cooperatively, being able to have difficult conversations is an important skill. These conversations can be challenging, but with the right approach, they can lead to positive outcomes and stronger relationships. Here are some strategies to help you navigate difficult conversations effectively.
 

November is National Native American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate traditions and culture of Indigenous peoples across the United States. It's a wonderful opportunity to recognize Indigenous heritage in a way that is meaningful to you. Here are some ideas for observing this special month.
 
Watch Gather

David Snow has a cool job. In fact, his work is supercool. He’s a cryogenic engineer with Rigetti Computing, a company based in Berkeley, Calif., that designs and builds quantum computers that run at near absolute zero — roughly minus 460 degrees Fahrenheit.

Right place, right time? For Roylene Comes At Night, a decision to compete in NAISEF (the National American Indian Science and Engineering Fair sponsored by AISES) came at just the right time.

Being able to effectively communicate with your teachers is critical to your academic success. In fact, according to the majority of people who responded to a Pew Research Center study, communication is the most important skill needed to succeed. Here are a few ways to help you communicate effectively with your teachers.
 
Address Them Respectfully

Jayson Pomfret is on his own unique path. A proud member of the Métis Nation of Ontario, he is a fourth-year health sciences student at Queen’s University in Ontario, specializing in the physiological basis of health and disease. With a deep-rooted passion for medicine and advocacy, Pomfret has dedicated his academic journey to understanding the intricacies of the human body while simultaneously maintaining a strong commitment to helping Indigenous communities.

Growing up in Tucson, Ariz., surrounded by the Sonoran Desert, Nadira Mitchell was always interested in the natural world. As a child, she remembers collecting snails after the monsoon rains and taking notes on her observations. “My mother would always remind me to thank them for their knowledge,” says Mitchell. “She instilled within me a love and respect for all animals and other living beings, rooted in our Navajo culture.”

It’s time again for the AISES National Conference! This year’s conference will take place in San Antonio, Texas, from October 3 to 5 — don’t miss this amazing opportunity for new and returning Indigenous students and professionals to learn, grow, and share their knowledge. It can be challenging to step away from your responsibilities, so if you are able to attend you want to make it worthwhile. Here are a few ways to ensure you get the most out of the AISES National Conference.
 
Make a List

The countdown to the AISES National Conference is on! This year’s conference, with the theme Rivers of Resilience — Sustaining Indigenous Innovation, is in San Antonio, Texas, October 3–5. If you’ve never been to an AISES National Conference, it’s an amazing opportunity for Indigenous students and professionals to learn, grow, and share their knowledge. With so much to do and so many people to see, it can be overwhelming. Here are a few ways to get the most out of your time.
 
Make Sure You’re Able to Go

If your motivation has left the building, you’re not alone. According to Gallup, approximately 80 percent of employees worldwide are not engaged — or are actively disengaged — at work. This lack of motivation can make it challenging to accomplish parts of your job. Here are a few ways to regain the stimulus you need to get back to work.
 
Create Achievable Goals