OASIS BLOG

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…

In our last post, we explored the good habit of structured learning time, the rhythm students bring from K-12 into college that can be repurposed for academic success. But let’s talk now about a not-so-helpful habit: dependent learning. This is the habit of relying on teachers to do the heavy lifting when it comes to…

When you head off to college, you bring more than just your wardrobe, laptop, and favorite snacks. You bring habits. Some good, some not so good. Among the best habits many students carry with them is one that’s often overlooked: structured learning time. For over a decade, students have been conditioned to learn during the…

I received the following email last week morning, and it led to reflection and inspiration: Hello, I just wanted to thank you for your presentation on the 20th, where you talked about the impact of your ADHD and Dyslexia. Having someone put something in words that I’ve been struggling to try to explain, even to…

As internship season kicks off, it’s the perfect time to talk about how undergrads can make the most of their summer experience and maybe even turn that internship into a full-time job offer. This isn’t just about getting coffee or updating spreadsheets; it’s about showing who you are, what you bring to the table, and…

In a time marked by rapid demographic changes, economic uncertainty, and increasing social polarization, colleges and universities are being called to reaffirm—and reimagine—their true purpose. Beyond merely serving as institutions that churn out technically proficient graduates, higher education must rise to its deeper obligation: to prepare individuals who are not only skilled professionals but also…

I was born and raised in Suriname, a South American country with not only a vibrant blend of cultures, but also a rigorous educational system. One of my most vivid memories from sixth grade was the national graduation exam. This was no multiple-choice test. Instead, it required students to demonstrate deep knowledge and understanding across…