In the evolving world of hiring, a new term is gaining traction: the “paper ceiling.” The phrase is used to describe workers who are limited in their opportunities because they don't have "the paper," a college diploma. For example, the organization Opportunity@Work describes it as: “the invisible barrier that comes at every turn for workers without a bachelor’s degree,” who are "separated by degree screens, algorithms, stereotypes, and even professional networks. The organi

If you have read recent headlines, you might feel the world of college graduates is under siege: stories of plummeting job prospects, rising unemployment, and degrees that no longer “pay off.” But as the team at the University of Richmond Career Services observes, the data tell a much more nuanced tale. In their blog , “What the Headlines Get Wrong about the Job Market for College Grads,” the author reminds us that although unemployment for new graduates may be higher than de

Between adolescence and full adulthood lies a distinct and fascinating life stage that shapes nearly every college student’s decision, motivation, and identity exploration. Psychologist Jeffrey Arnett coined the term emerging adulthood to describe the period spanning ages 18 to 25. For career coaches, understanding this developmental theory can help us better guide students, recognizing the unique characteristics and stressors of this important life stage. Understanding Emer

For many students, the road to a college degree feels long and overwhelming. Between balancing coursework, jobs, family responsibilities, and financial pressures, the finish line can seem far away. Advisors often see students discouraged not by a lack of ability, but by a lack of recognition along the way. That’s where micro-celebrations come in. By intentionally celebrating small wins, advisors can boost student motivation, reinforce progress, and build momentum toward large

The registration rush is over. The long days of back-to-back appointments, urgent emails, and last-minute schedule changes have finally quieted. But before diving headfirst into the next set of priorities, it’s worth pausing to ask: How are you doing? Advisors and student-success professionals often sprint through registration season like marathoners who forget to stop running even after the finish line. The danger is that without intentional recovery, the stress lingers, pro

If you’re an academic advisor or student success coach, you know the chaos of registration season all too well: endless emails, nonstop appointments, back-to-back meetings, and a to-do list that seems to regenerate overnight. When every task feels urgent, focus becomes a luxury. That’s where the Pomodoro Technique comes in, a deceptively simple time-management method that can help you regain control of your day, one tomato at a time. What Is the Pomodoro Technique? Developed

Sabbaticals have long been a fixture in the academic world. Typically, a paid period of time every several years, during which a faculty member steps away from their regular teaching and service duties to engage in research, professional renewal, or creative work. The purpose? To refresh perspective, reenergize engagement, devote time to scholarship and professional development, and return to the institution with both renewed well-being and enhanced capacity for impact. That

As career coaches and student-success professionals, we know how quickly spring graduation sneaks up. One moment, students are registering for their final classes, and the next, they’re walking the stage, sometimes still unsure what comes next. That’s why November is the ideal month to help your soon-to-be graduates move from intention to action. November is a key month because the upcoming break gives them time to prepare, and it could affect their spring semester scheduling

As higher-ed professionals, we spend countless hours helping students feel that they matter, that they’re seen, and that they belong on our campuses. We talk about belonging as a cornerstone of student success and for good reason. Students who feel connected to their institution are more likely to persist, engage, and thrive. But belonging isn’t a one-way street. The same human needs that drive our students’ sense of belonging also apply to us, the college employees. When emp