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Academic Survival ®The Podcast That Helps Freshman Get to Graduation Author: Shandra L. McDonald
Thirty percent of students drop out of college during the 1st year. The transition from high school to college can feel overwhelming for many freshmen and their families. On Academic Survival, I interview current and former college students about their freshman year experiences. I also invite expert guests who share college success tips, freshman survival strategies, and advice on thriving in college life and beyond. Whether you're a 1st-year student looking for guidance, or a parent wanting your freshman to succeed, this podcast provides real stories, strategies, and encouragement to help you on the journey. Join me as we discover how to survive freshman year, thrive throughout college, and graduate with confidence. Academic Survival: The Podcast That Gets Freshmen to Graduation. Language: en Genres: Education, How To, Self-Improvement Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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Mental Endurance: Dr. Shandra and Dr. Dar
Episode 26
Monday, 29 September, 2025
“Mental Endurance” with Dr. Shandra & Dr. Dar In this thoughtful and motivating episode, Dr. Shandra and Dr. Dar dive into the theme of mental endurance and what it truly takes to keep going on the academic journey—especially through the toughest moments. Sharing personal stories from their own educational paths, both speakers explore why having a meaningful “why” is crucial for sticking with your goals, how to stay focused when obstacles arise, and how the process of overcoming challenges is foundational to success.Their honest discussion covers everything from emotional resilience and battling self-doubt, to practical tips like setting routines, building supportive communities, and the role of mentors. Both Dr. Shandra and Dr. Dar candidly address family expectations, internal and external setbacks, and the power of perseverance when life doesn’t go as planned.Three Key Takeaways:Define and Stay Focused on Your “Why”: Knowing your personal motivation for pursuing a degree is essential for mental endurance. When challenges arise, returning to your “why” can help you push through temporary setbacks and keep your eyes on your long-term goals.Community & Mentorship Matter: Surrounding yourself with supportive peers, mentors, and positive influences—whether in-person or through books—creates an ecosystem that can help you weather difficulties, hold you accountable, and provide practical advice for your journey.Endurance is Built Through Resistance: Every roadblock, big or small, is a chance to strengthen your resilience. Success isn’t about never facing obstacles; it’s about learning how to overcome them, seek help when necessary, and continue moving forward—one step at a time.Tune in for stories of hope, real-world wisdom, and the belief that you can do hard things, even if it sometimes feels impossible in the moment.Other Episodes with Dr. Shandra and Dr. Dar:Discovering and Using Your Gifts and Talents in CollegeOur Academic StoryInclusive Leadership for Students











