Episodes

From Clinicals to Critical Care: Nurse Mikaela’s Survival Stories In this episode, Dr. Shandra sits down with Nurse Mikaela Ausbon-Harrison to share raw nurse survival stories from her nonlinear path from animal science to nu...

“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...

In this episode of Academic Survival, Dr. Shandra and Dr. Dar dive into the topic of discovering and using your gifts and talents—especially for students and young professionals. The conversation explores the differences betw...

In this episode Dr. Shandra and Dr. Dar come together to share their personal journeys from challenging beginnings to academic and professional success. They reflect on overcoming adversity, building resilience, and the impor...

In this episode Aryss Richardson, a first-year nursing student, discusses her journey from premed aspirations to discovering her true calling in nursing. Aryss shares the pivotal moment that led her to change paths, a sermon ...

In this episode, Officer Jill sheds light on the critical topics of campus safety, law enforcement, and the enriching experience of attending an HBCU (Howard University). Three Key Takeaways: Know Your Rights and Stay Complia...

In this episode, Jonathan Jackson Williams, tackles the challenges and strategies tied to physical activity and recovery. He highlights the significance of listening to one's body and knowing when to take a break from gym rou...

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-Washin...

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. Ma...

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 journal...

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 ...

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'...

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 Co...

Do you want to discover the key to a successful academic journey as an international student? Look no further! Join us as we unveil the secrets to navigating the challenges and finding support while studying in a different co...

I'm excited to introduce you to my guest, former NFL wide receiver Roy Hall Jr. Roy's impressive journey from a standout athlete at Ohio State to professional football with the Indianapolis Colts offers a unique lens to unde...

If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed because despite putting in long hours studying and attending all your classes, you're still struggling to grasp engineering concepts and achieve the grades you desire, then you are...

Astrophysicist Jessica A. Harris: Inspiring and Empowering Underrepresented Students to Pursue Careers in Science An empowering journey of a tenacious Black woman in STEM, as she defies barriers, advocates for diversity, and ...

In this episode of the Academic Survival Podcast, I interview Associate Professional Clinical Psychologist / School Psychologist Bria Edgar about ways to best cope with the stresses of student life. Bria emphasizes the import...

Amber Artiaga, DBA, is a strong advocate for the use of modern technology in education. She believes that the stance of these tools being inherently bad for learning and development is misguided and will only hinder students'...

Overcoming the odds, Dana Spencer was determined to provide a better future for her and her unborn child. Little did she know that her college days would take an unexpected twist, leading her to a career in direct marketing a...

Student-Athlete Support System In today's competitive world, student-athletes need a solid support system to help them manage the demands of both academics and sports. A successful support system should provide the necessary ...

Meet Blake Leigh, an accomplished pianist and jazz composer who has experienced firsthand the importance of pursuing one's passion and maintaining authenticity in the music industry. After starting his college journey at Bent...

Dr. Shandra L. McDonald, a college graduate with a lifelong battle with reading, set out on a quest to prove her doubters wrong, but discovered her own inner strength and resilience to academically survive college and beyond....

Velmar learns to balance work, school, and relationships as she finds strength and emotional support in college. "I told myself in college I wouldn't do that because I came out of high school with literally no close friends, ...