First things first — your grades are not an indication of your intelligence. That said, if you’re not getting the grades you want, there are some simple ways to get there. Earning high marks is about working smarter, not harder. Do that, and you’ll find that getting better grades is easier than you thought.
 
Study Your Own History

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.
 

For most professionals, this is the time of year when performance reviews come up. Whether your review takes place once a year or more often, it’s not unusual to have some apprehension about the process and the actual meeting. But instead of stressing over your performance review, look at it as an opportunity to speak directly with management about topics that matter to you. If you prepare thoroughly, you can walk into the meeting with confidence. Here are a few tips for getting there.

For some students, the science fair has become a tradition to look forward to each year. For others, it’s a frightening new challenge. Whatever your experience level may be, participating in a science fair provides much more than competition. The experience offers an opportunity that could influence your academic path or even your career. While only a handful of students walk away with an official award, most leave with the lasting prize of a new mentor, peer network, or professional aspiration. Entering a science fair doesn’t have to be complicated.

No matter where a business trip takes you, representing your organization on the road is an important responsibility. Between making reservations, checking airport logistics, gathering meeting materials, and packing — clothes and charging cords — the prospect of travel may leave you feeling overwhelmed. With some tried-and-true tips, you can confidently set off on a successful trip.

Your life, especially in college, will start to make sense if you give it some time. You’ll find your people. You’ll find the right clubs and organizations. You’ll find a major suited to your talents and goals, and eventually you’ll find a job. What may seem hopeless and overwhelming in your first few months at college will become brighter and even fun by spring semester. While it’s hard, try to be patient with yourself and the process — you will settle in. Here are some tips for finding your place at college.
 

It’s true what they say — you get out of it what you put into it. That’s especially true of conferences. Just look around and you’ll see a big difference between proactive participants and passive attendees. Showing up ready to hit the ground running will make the three conference days a much better use of your time than just showing up and winging it. When you map out your conference plans, you maximize chances to network, strategically attend sessions, and get on the radar of the schools and organizations you want to target. Make It Your AISES National Conference.

The countdown to the AISES National Conference is on! This year’s conference, with the theme We Are All Scientists, is in Minneapolis, October 2–4. 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.

Whether you’re new to the professional world or a veteran, it’s important to be an active participant in your own career. Instead of waiting patiently for your manager to approach you with new responsibilities or more challenging work, seek out opportunities for growth and involvement beyond your immediate daily duties. Raise your hand when something is intriguing or when your team needs help. Any new experience contributes to your professional development and helps build strong relationships. Don’t sit back.

Moving from high school to college is a major change, and it’s normal to feel excited, nervous, and well, overwhelmed. Living in a new place, meeting new people, and learning how to manage roommates, course loads, and your newfound freedom can be a lot. But there’s one thing to remember — you’re not alone. Every other new student is in the same boat, even if they don’t show it. Whether it’s worrying about making friends, conquering your statistics class, or finding the best dining hall, you’ll inevitably experience some highs and lows during your first year.