OASIS BLOG

Engage Early and Often One of the most valuable yet underutilized resources in college is faculty office hours. These dedicated times are not just for students who are failing or confused; they are an opportunity to build meaningful relationships with your professors, deepen your understanding of the material, and demonstrate your commitment to learning. Establishing…

The minute you set foot on campus, you’ve already started writing your resume for your first job after college. Yes, even on that first day when you’re figuring out how to swipe into the dining hall and trying not to get lost on the way to Chemistry 101. Those little choices, what you join, what you…

Let’s be honest. When you hear the word “homework,” your brain probably jumps to one of two images. Maybe you picture the relief of checking it off your to-do list, followed by snacks and Netflix. Or maybe you feel that pit in your stomach when you realize it’s due tomorrow and you haven’t even opened…

If you are stepping onto a college campus this fall, you have probably heard about “syllabus week”, sometimes playfully shortened to “sylly week”” It is often portrayed as an easy, laid-back first week of classes where you just sit through introductions, skim a few handouts, and enjoy your freedom before the “real work” begins. Call…

College move-in day is right around the corner! For many of you, this will be the first time living with someone who isn’t a family member. That’s exciting, but also a little nerve-wracking. How you handle your roommate relationship can have a big impact on your college experience, from your mental health to your academic…

It’s a question that comes up more often these days, and I understand why. The rising cost of tuition, the stories of people buried in student loans, and the success of those who bypass college altogether can make the whole idea of higher education feel questionable. For some people, it really might not be the…

In the current era of higher education, the stakes have never been higher. Across the country, institutions, especially small and mid-sized colleges, are grappling with declining enrollment, budget shortfalls, and questions about long-term sustainability. Amid these challenges, there is one lever that institutions often underutilize but that holds extraordinary power to influence outcomes: student retention.…

This summer, I’ve had several opportunities to speak with a brilliant group of interns at a Research Institute. One of our conversations centered around something rarely addressed directly in the early stages of our careers, how to create work-life balance as an intern or part-time employee. Interns and part-time staff often face a unique tension: the…

Welcome Back! In Part 1, we explored the importance of your first six months in the workforce and the actions you can take to get off to a strong start. Now let’s turn our attention to the mindset and skills that will help you not only survive, but thrive, in your new professional environment.  …

Welcome to the Real World Congratulations, graduates! Tossing your cap into the air marks the end of one chapter and the exciting beginning of another. Whether you’re stepping into your dream job, starting an internship, or still exploring opportunities, your first six months in the professional world are more than just a transition. They’re a…