Academic Survival Shandra L. McDonald

In this episode, I turn the mic over to Aryss Richardson, who is a high school senior simultaneously taking college courses. She aspires to be a nurse. I've arranged for her to interview the esteemed Dr. Angela Allen-Washington, a doctor of nursing practice with over 20 years of experience. I really wanted her to have the opportunity to interview someone in her career field of interest and was excited to make this happen.
The central theme of the episode revolved around nursing, healthcare, and the essential components of patient-provider relationships, providing valuable insights for those considering a career in nursing or healthcare industry. Here are the detailed show notes from the episode:
- Dr. Angela Allen-Washington emphasized the significance of collaborative care in addressing complex medical cases, showcasing an example of collaborating with a cardiologist to provide comprehensive care for a pediatric patient with a heart murmur. This underscores the importance of teamwork and effective communication in delivering holistic healthcare.
- The episode delved into the critical aspect of fostering trust with patients. Dr. Allen-Washington emphasized active listening, engaging with patient concerns, and involving them in shared decision-making to build strong, trusting relationships. This illuminates the essential role of empathy and patient-centered care in nursing and healthcare professions.
- The importance of staying abreast of healthcare advancements and the evolving industry landscape was highlighted. Dr. Allen-Washington shared her strategies, such as engaging in continuing education, joining professional organizations, and using diverse sources like articles, podcasts, journals, blogs, and social media to stay informed. This underscores the significance of lifelong learning and professional development in nursing and healthcare careers.
Key takeaways from the episode:
- Collaboration is vital in delivering comprehensive healthcare. 🤝
- Active listening and patient engagement are integral to building trusting patient-provider relationships. 🎧
- Continual knowledge acquisition and adaptability are essential for success in the evolving healthcare landscape. 📚

In this episode of Academic Survival, I have an enlightening conversation with Dr. Dar Mayweather, a passionate educator and leader, on the intersection of education, career goals, and inclusive leadership development. Dr. Mayweather discusses inclusive leadership for students and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and nurturing people's natural gifts and talents to prepare them for success in the industry.
Listeners will discover the significance of inclusive leadership training and the transformation in students' leadership styles, as Dr. Mayweather shares his insights on creating partnerships between academic and student affairs. He offers invaluable advice on understanding the realities of companies and the benefits of networking opportunities in prestigious universities for future careers.
Tune in to explore the nuances of diverse leadership styles, the dynamics of educational and career choices, and the value of aligning personal development with desired geographical locations and connections. Additionally, Dr. Mayweather introduces his upcoming book and invites listeners to engage in inclusive leadership training, highlighting the potential for financial success in this field.
Whether you're a student navigating your academic journey or an aspiring leader seeking inspiration and valuable life lessons, this episode offers valuable insights into inclusive leadership and the nurturing of individual strengths for a fulfilling career and life. So, don't miss this thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Dar Mayweather on Academic Survival!

This Episode of Academic Survival features an insightful conversation with April Simpson, a
reporter at the Center for Public Integrity, who shares her expertise and experience in the field of journalism. If you’re a journalism major, this episode is a must-listen for valuable tips and advice to navigate academic and professional life.
 
In this episode, April Simpson discusses the importance of having a support system, prioritizing self-care, and the art of interviewing and understanding diverse sources. She emphasizes
the significance of investigative reporting and the impact it can have on uncovering the truth about critical issues.
 
Listeners will also learn about "The Heist," April’s captivating 5-episode podcast that sheds light
on the discrimination faced by Black farmers. Her insights offer a unique perspective on racial equity, historical context, and the discrimination faced by Black farmers by the Department of
Agriculture.
 
Join host Dr. Shandra L. McDonald as she engages with April Simpson in a deep dive into the world of journalism and the impactful work that drives awareness and understanding of crucial societal
issues.
Stay tuned as April Simpson shares her personal journey in journalism, overcoming obstacles, and finding joy in writing. As a journalism major, gain insights into the future of media, the necessity of building a personal brand, and the importance of networking to gain hands-on experience.
 
Whether you're interested in journalism, storytelling, or simply seeking inspiration and valuable life lessons, this episode has something for you.
Tune in to Academic Survival and be inspired by April Simpson's journey, expert advice, and the power of investigative reporting.

Today I am excited to have Sarah Jung on the show. Sarah is currently participating in an international exchange program from Germany to the US under the CBYX (Congress Bundestag Youth Exchange) program. She is placed in Las Vegas, attending UNLV part-time and gaining work experience in the hospitality industry. We'll be discussing her experiences, challenges, and key takeaways from her time in the US.
🔖Show Notes🔖
Sarah's Participation in CBYX Program:
Sarah is part of the CBYX program, aimed at fostering better relations between young professionals and providing students the opportunity to gain valuable experience abroad. She is placed in Las Vegas, attending UNLV part-time and working in the hospitality industry as part of the exchange program.
Cultural and Personal Experiences:
Sarah shares her initial challenge of improving her English and her journey towards gaining confidence in the language over time. She reflects on the cultural differences between Germany and the US, including educational, societal, and work-related aspects. The podcast delves into Sarah's internship in Congress and her work on trade shows, offering insights into her practical experiences during the exchange program.
Personal and Professional Growth:
Sarah's international experience has influenced her future career decisions, opening her eyes to the field of sales and its potential to align with her skills and interests. The conversation also touches upon workplace values, the importance of enjoying the company of colleagues, and the significance of a supportive work culture.
🌟Key Takeaways🌟
🗣️ Improved Language Skills
Sarah's experience highlights the value of immersion in a language to improve communication skills, offering a firsthand example of the benefits of engaging in an international exchange program.
🌍 Cultural Awareness and Adaptability
Through Sarah's experiences, listeners can understand and appreciate the significance of gaining cultural awareness, embracing diversity, and adapting to different societal norms and work environments.
💼 Career Exploration and Personal Development
Sarah's journey sheds light on the opportunities for personal and professional growth that can arise from international exchange programs, inspiring students to consider such experiences to broaden their horizons and discover their potential career paths.
🌟Listeners can gain valuable insights from Sarah's experiences, understanding the impact of international exchange programs on language skills, cultural adaptability, and personal and professional growth. Her story serves as a source of inspiration for students considering similar opportunities.🌟

In this thought-provoking episode of Academic Survival, Dr. Kelly
Dobson unveils the untold challenges and obstacles that can hinder a
timely graduation from college. Join host Shandra McDonald as she delves
into Dr. Dobson's personal journey, from financial dilemmas to
unexpected distractions, and how they affected his academic progression.

Discover the pivotal moments when Dr. Dobson had to prioritize his
passions over societal expectations, and the significance of recognizing
when it's time to reevaluate one's chosen path. Get ready to explore
the crucial lessons learned from taking 13 years to earn a bachelor's
degree, and understand how the early stages of college preparation can
shape one's future success.
Tune in to gain invaluable insights into navigating personal
relationships, exploring career pathways, and making decisions that
align with your true passions. Don't miss this eye-opening conversation
that offers a fresh perspective on the academic journey and the pursuit
of genuine fulfillment.

Adell Coleman and Anna DeShawn, the hosts of the Head Nod podcast, are joining me on the Academic Survival podcast to share their insights on exploring the Black experience at Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs). Adell Coleman, a seasoned professional working at DCP Entertainment, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the podcasting industry. Meanwhile, Anna Deshawn, the CEO of TheCube, has a passion for amplifying diverse voices and creating meaningful conversations. With their personal experiences as graduates from PWIs, Adell and Anna provide valuable insights and perspectives on navigating the challenges and triumphs of being Black in predominantly White spaces. Get ready to gain a fresh perspective and learn from their expertise in this episode of Academic Survival.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:00:52 - The Head nod podcast
00:03:17 - Growing up experiences
00:05:25 - Transition to PWIs
00:09:06 - Hangouts and communities
00:14:35 - College Experience and Learning Styles
00:15:59 - Overwhelm and Personal Challenges
00:18:07 - Support Systems and Black Admin
00:19:23 - Feeling Overwhelmed and Finding Joy
00:24:06 - Fighting Back Against Administration
00:29:59 - Discovering Identity in College
00:32:30 - Designing Support Systems for Black Students
00:33:42 - The Importance of Good Food and Music
00:36:44 - Majors and Career Aspirations
00:39:12 - Shifting Career Paths
00:46:51 - Give Yourself Grace
00:47:54 - The Importance of Networking
00:48:47 - Stay Open to Possibilities
00:49:49 - Personal Experiences and Connecting
Stay tuned for more thought-provoking, insightful content related to
academic survival in upcoming episodes of the Academic Survival podcast.