Finding Gratitude in the College Chaos: A Thanksgiving Reflection

Melissa W.

As the semester barrels toward finals and campus starts to feel like a swirl of deadlines, late-night study sessions, and half-defrosted cafeteria pies, Thanksgiving arrives right on time. Whether you're traveling home, hosting a Friendsgiving in your dorm, or simply enjoying a quiet break from lectures, this season offers a rare chance to pause and appreciate the messy, meaningful moments that make college what it is.

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When Washington Stops: How a Government Shutdown Ripples Through Higher Ed

Melissa W.

Every once in a while, the federal government hits a stop-gap: Congress fails to pass the appropriations or continuing-resolution, and we get a federal government shutdown, or something similar. Many may view this as a political stalemate far removed from the lecture halls, dorms, and research labs of colleges and universities — but the truth is: higher-education institutions feel the impact in clear, practical ways.

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Haunted Halls: The Ghost Stories of America’s Most Haunted College Campuses

Melissa W.

Every fall, as leaves crunch underfoot and the air grows crisp, college campuses across the country buzz with the excitement of a new semester—and a few eerie whispers from the past. From colonial-era universities to modern institutions built on old battlefields, some campuses carry more than just academic history. They’re said to host lingering spirits of students, professors, and tragic figures who never truly left.

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Fall on Campus: Why Autumn is the Most Magical Time of the College Year

Melissa W.

There’s something undeniably special about fall on a college campus. As the air turns crisp and the leaves shift into brilliant shades of orange, red, and gold, campus life takes on a new energy. Whether you're a first-year student or a seasoned senior, autumn offers a chance to reset, refocus, and really soak in the full college experience.

From cozy study spots to football games and everything pumpkin-spiced in between, here’s why fall might just be the best season of all on campus.

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A New Year, A New Start: Welcoming the Back-to-School Season

Melissa W.

There's a unique energy in the air as summer winds down. The days might still be warm, but a subtle shift in the light and the appearance of backpacks and notebooks on store shelves signal the start of a new school year. For students, parents, and educators alike, this time of year is a powerful mix of emotions—a blend of bittersweet goodbyes to summer freedom and the exciting anticipation of a fresh start.

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Summer on Campus: A Different Kind of Vibe

Melissa W.

Summer is in full swing which means many college campuses turn into ghost towns...or do they? While it's true that the bustling energy of the fall and spring semesters shifts, a college campus in the summer offers a unique and often overlooked experience. Far from being deserted, these vibrant hubs transform, offering a different kind of life and a wealth of opportunities.

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Caps Off to the Masses: A Look at America's Largest Graduation Ceremonies

Melissa W.

Graduation season in the United States is a time of immense pride, celebration, and, for some universities, a logistical marvel. We're talking about institutions that don't just graduate a class, they launch a city's worth of new alumni into the world. But which U.S. universities can lay claim to hosting the largest commencement exercises, sending off a sea of gowned graduates in a single period? Let's dive into the world of mega-graduations.

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Pope Francis and His Educational Journey

Melissa W.

Today, we are reflecting on the life and impact of Pope Francis, who died today at the age of 88. While we know of the Pope’s life in faith, he led a fairly regular life before stepping into the highest role of the Catholic Church. For instance, did you know, he was briefly a high school teacher? Francis's educational journey is a multifaceted one, reflecting a blend of technical training, philosophical studies, and theological formation. 

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Beyond the Usual Suspects: A Look at Unlikely College Commencement Speakers

Melissa Woelflein

Every year, universities across the globe invite esteemed figures to impart wisdom upon their graduating classes. We often see politicians, CEOs, and renowned academics gracing the commencement stage. But every now and then, a university throws a curveball, inviting a speaker from a less conventional background. These unexpected choices can lead to some of the most memorable and inspiring graduation speeches. Let's take a look back at some of the most unlikely college commencement speakers of the past.

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The Long and Winding Road: A History of Racial Integration in Colleges

Melissa Woelflein

The image of a diverse, vibrant college campus often feels like a cornerstone of modern American life. But the reality of racial integration in higher education is a relatively recent and hard-won victory, marked by decades of struggle and resistance. From the earliest attempts to educate Black Americans to the ongoing pursuit of true equity, the history of racial integration in colleges is a complex and crucial part of our national narrative.

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