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.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming more mainstream every day. From customer service bots to writing aids, the average consumer is able to access and utilize a wide variety of applications. The power of AI is also impacting today’s workplace. The technology is expected to increase efficiency, reduce costs, limit human error, and help with decision-making. Currently, AI on the job is primarily used to help with automation, data collection, and improving the employee experience.
 
Automation

A lot of emphasis is placed on college applicants’ academic records leading up to the college application process. But while grades and extracurriculars are important, they do not tell your whole story. Colleges also are interested in learning who you are, what values you hold, and how you might enhance their community. There are opportunities throughout the application to reveal skills and aspects of your personality not captured by lists and stats. Here are five skills to consider highlighting on your college application — and how to do it.
 
Commitment

If you question whether your work is right for you, it’s likely an indication that something is off or you’re not fulfilled. You’re not alone. Less than 4 percent of professionals globally — 13 percent in United States — report that their work fits their interests and needs. While facing a major change can seem daunting, it’s important to pay attention to the signals your mind and body are sending. Consider what the ideal work situation would be for you — both short- and long-term — and choose a life that allows you to thrive. Here are some tips when considering a career change.

Have you ever experienced a churning stomach before giving a presentation, or gotten goosebumps upon hearing a beautiful singing voice? These physiological reactions are caused when the brain releases a chemical — cortisol in times of stress or oxytocin in times of pleasure — in response to whatever emotional event you’re experiencing. The response also demonstrates how closely our mental and physical health are linked. One can have a direct impact on the other, which can affect your overall health and wellbeing. It's known as the mind-body connection.
 

Solid presentation skills are important in today's workplace. Not only do they demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively, but they also enhance confidence and engagement with the audience. Mastering the art of presenting can lead to improved professional relationships, increased influence, and even career advancement. Whether you’re new to your field or a seasoned professional, it’s always smart to sharpen your presentation skills. Here are a few key elements of a successful presentation to keep in mind:

With roughly 6,000 colleges in the United States, choosing the right one can seem like an overwhelming task. Factors such as programs, academic rigor, size, location, and available resources need to be considered by a prospective student and their family. While visiting college websites is important, there’s nothing like a campus visit to help get a good feel for a school and what it’s like to be a student there. Here are some tips for a productive campus visit.  

Increased independence comes with growing older. But don’t mistake independence with living alone on an island. There will be times when you’ll need some extra guidance and support — and that’s perfectly OK. While it’s good to try to work things out for yourself, it is important to know when to ask for help.