Ask Ashley

Ashley is the Free Press’ new advice columnist. She will happily help you with any questions you have without judgement. Send them to amr014!

 

 

I have a presentation on technology and language learning coming up next week for which I plan to use an iPad. I got a first generation iPad from one of the departments on campus. I was told that it was the only one on campus that is lend out to students. Really?!! Do you think there is any other way I could get hold of more iPads so that I can share iPads with my classmates during my presentation?

 

I visited both IT departments today (Information and Instruction Technologies) and both said that there are no resources like that on campus at this time. Unfortunately, the only Ipad on campus that students are allowed to borrow is the one you currently have.

I’m not sure what exactly your plan is, but look into Prezi as an alternative to present your topic. If you need a hands-on type thing, I would recommend looking into signing out a computer lab if this could help you present your topic.

I’m very sorry that I couldn’t be more helpful on this topic. Please come to me with any other questions you may have in the future, though, and I promise I will do my best to answer them!

 

How do I stop procrastinating?

The truth is, I was a horrible procrastinator in high school, and still to this day I sometimes find it hard to manage my time. The best advice I could probably give to you is this: set daily goals for yourself. I have a “Daily To-Do List” taped to my desk, as well as a planner for actual homework assignments. On weekends, when I don’t complete all of the assignments I wanted to, I make a list of what still needs to be done. For me, this helps me to outline what work I need to do, as well as what goals outside of school I want to accomplish. I also try to set aside some time just for me. Lists are preferable for me, but find a system that works for you. Just try to keep on top of what you need to get done. If you get behind, it’s okay! DO NOT stress yourself out. Talk to your advisor or your professors – it’s what they are there for. They will help get you back on track. I really hope this helps. Remember to ask me anything!

 

How do I move on from a past relationship?

 

Good question! I truly think this question has a different answer for everyone. I have been in 3 relationship before – I broke up with one boyfriend, I had one boyfriend break up with me, and now I have a boyfriend that I love so much and we’ve been dating for almost 11 months. Anyway, both of the relationship that I had that were ended were hard to get over. I was with those guys for a reason, and for everyone else, you were with those people for a reason. You need to first figure out what the reason was, and why you broke up. If it’s meant to be, then you’ll get back together. But, if it wasn’t, you can and will find the right person eventually. Before you can have a successful relationship, you need to take time to figure out you and what you want. You need to be happy with you first. Then, when it’s right, somehow you will meet the perfect person to share that happiness with. Don’t look for someone who will make you happy, look for someone you can share you with. Relationships aren’t about carrying someone else…they’re about combining and sharing each other’s lives. Do that, and I think you’ll be able to be happy with whoever you’re with.

 

 

How can I take time for myself with a busy schedule? What would I do during that time?

 

Trust me, I understand a busy schedule. And some days, you feel like you don’t even have time to sit down. But, in all honesty, you need to! Each and every person needs at least 30 minutes a day to themselves (that is not scientifically proven, just my opinion). Set aside just 30 minutes a day to take for yourself. I know it may seem hard, and you’ll have thoughts running through your head about what needs to be done, and you’ll feel guilty or you’ll worry that you won’t finish everything you need to do. But, think of things this way – you really do need to relax a little bit each day. It truly is a human need. Without a break from anxiety, we hit a breaking point and we melt down. Take the time each day, it doesn’t have to be long, and do something you want to do. Read a book, watch a television show, rest your eyes even. It doesn’t matter what you do, as long as you are relaxing and doing something that you enjoy – don’t do something that you feel required to do! But make sure you take care of yourself and take a break from your busy schedule.