Blogs Out Loud

 Hi Classmates,  After reviewing the tools for this week, I am familiar with 2 out of the 4. I use GroupMe and WhatsApp the most. I use GroupMe to stay connected with people I’m involved with in organizations and for class projects because usually there’s a big group, and GroupMe works great for handling large numbers of people. It makes it easy to keep everyone in the loop without missing messages. I use WhatsApp mostly to communicate with people who aren’t in the United States. For example, when I go on vacation, I use WhatsApp to book excursions and coordinate plans with tour guides abroad. It’s super convenient because you don't have to worry about text message fees.  Out of the two that I am not familiar with, I think MIRO would work the best for me because you can create diagrams and tables which is beneficial for both my professional work and my doctoral program. In my job, I often need to organize complex information and collaborate with teams, so having a visual ...

 Hi Classmates,  Can y’all believe we’re already in Week 9 ? We’re so close to the finish line and wrapping up this summer semester. I was so grateful to have Week 8 off. It was such a refresher for me mentally and physically. I went on a cruise to the Bahamas for the Fourth of July and it was everything I needed from relaxation, good food, and a break from schoolwork. I just got back yesterday feeling recharged and ready to lock in for these final weeks. I am so happy that the semester is coming to an end because I have been juggling taking three classes and keeping up with all these different papers that I have to write but I always tell myself it will be worth it in the end :). - India Woods

 Hi Classmates,  I wanted to share this article with you all regarding the impact that social media has on our mental health. We are almost done with the semester and it’s important to remember how our online habits can affect our well-being, especially during stressful times.  https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/cultivating-health/social-medias-impact-our-mental-health-and-tips-to-use-it-safely/2024/05  - India Woods 

Hi Classmates, I decided to look into one of our tools for this week and I came across Discord. I am familiar with Discord because my partner uses it, but I’ve never used it on my own. After reviewing the Discord website, I decided to create one myself and discovered that it’s another great way to share knowledge through blogging and the Discord community. For example, one of the communities I joined was "Celebrating Black Community Leaders," where we highlight exceptional leaders who make contributions to social justice and education. What I enjoy most is being able to use emojis, share articles, and even join live voice chats where members could openly discuss and exchange ideas in real time. -India Woods

Hi Classmates, I hope everyone had a great weekend! I think we all should take up Dr. Dennen's word and take on an actual digital detox and try to walk away from the internet and our devices for more than 48 hours. To be honest, this may sound crazy but I don't know if I will be able to do it because my cellphone is a part of my everyday life. I use it for everything from checking emails, keeping up with work and staying connected with family and friends. The thought of stepping away even for a short time feels challenging but I know it could also be refreshing. I am going on a cruise next weekend which is the 4th of July so I may be able to make it happen but I STILL HAVE SCHOOL WORK :(((((.  -India Woods

Hi Classmates, I came across an article that I wanted to share with you all. I’m not sure if everyone in the course is a PhD student, but even if you’re not, I think this article could still be helpful as you navigate your graduate-level studies. What stuck out to me the most in the article is the section that highlights "Work Smart and Learn to Take Breaks" because sometimes I don't know how to step away and give myself time to recharge. Drowning yourself in school work 24-7 leads to burn out really quickly and can negatively impact both your mental health and overall performance.  This is a REMINDER TO TAKE YOUR BREAKS AND VACATIONS :) https://www.thesavvyscientist.com/tips-for-new-phd-students/ - India Woods