As Student Success Coaches, we would like to take this opportunity to reach out and communicate with you directly. We understand that your academic journey can be challenging, but please know that we are here to support you every step of the way.
We want to remind you that your success is our top priority. We are here to provide you with guidance, resources, and support to help you achieve your academic goals. Whether you need assistance with time management, study skills, or navigating the university, we are here to help.
It is important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. For this reason we have created this entry to provide you with a direct message and to be able to contact us more directly. We hope you enjoy.
Student Success Coaches
New Year, New Possibilities!
August 7, 2025
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Hey FocusQuest family! Hope everyone had an absolutely fantastic summer!
As we step into a new academic year, I’m buzzing with excitement about all the possibilities ahead. A new year means new beginnings, fresh starts, and incredible opportunities! If last year was awesome, this year can be even MORE amazing. And if last year wasn’t your greatest? This is your moment to make it the absolute BEST year you’ve ever had!
Ready to hit the ground running? Here are three things you can do RIGHT NOW to set yourself up for a phenomenal year:
1. Remember Your Purpose Why are you doing what you’re doing? Reconnect with that driving force, that vision that gets you excited about your future. Your purpose is your fuel – keep it front and center!
2. Take Some Honest Assessment Time Here’s where we get real with ourselves. Take a close look at last year – what worked and what didn’t? Was it time to upgrade those study skills or revamp study habits? Maybe some time management tweaks were needed? Did you skip asking for help when you really needed it? Should you have visited the tutoring center more often? Were there too many distractions pulling your focus – perhaps too much time on social media or other electronic pursuits?
Honestly evaluate those missteps. Look at moments when you felt you didn’t reach success, then determine WHY. Understanding the “why” is absolutely vital to your success moving forward. What did you do that led to successful outcomes? What caused the not-so-successful ones? Address these insights NOW, before school starts again.
3. Assess and Adjust Your Habits Take inventory – what habits need sharpening? What needs to be eliminated completely? It only takes a little focused time to figure it out, change what needs changing, and start fresh on the right foot. Get yourself truly ready for this new school year!
For those of you already in classes or in programs that are year round, and moving along your journey – keep going and stay focused! Whether you’re an online learner or an on-campus scholar, we are cheering you on every single step of the way.
Here’s to a phenomenal year ahead! You’ve got this!
🎯 How to Master Your Energy: 7 Ways to Identify & Leverage Productivity Peak Patterns in Online Students
July 7, 2025
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What Are Productivity Peak Patterns?
The Science Behind Daily Productivity Rhythms
Our brains and bodies don’t perform at the same level all day long. Instead, we operate on natural energy cycles, known as circadian rhythms. These patterns influence when we feel alert, focused, and creative—or sluggish and sleepy.
For students, recognizing these shifts is crucial. Whether you’re grinding through math problems or writing essays, your cognitive energy peaks and dips can affect how efficiently you work.
Single, Double, and Triple Peak Productivity Models
Most people fall into one of three productivity rhythm categories:
Single Peak: One main surge of energy—usually late morning.
Double Peak: Two bursts—commonly mid-morning and early evening.
Triple Peak: Three smaller bursts—morning, afternoon, and late night.
Identifying which of these models fits your personal rhythm can transform how you study and manage your day.
Why Knowing Your Productivity Peaks Matters in Online Learning
Flexibility in Online Education
One of the best things about online courses is flexibility. You don’t need to stick to a 9-to-5 class schedule. If your brain works best at 10 p.m., that can be your classroom hour.
By syncing your studies with your personal energy peaks, you make learning easier, faster, and less stressful.
Aligning Focus with Course Demands
Not all tasks are created equal. Some—like watching a recorded lecture—need less brainpower. Others—like taking an exam or writing a paper—require full focus. By saving demanding tasks for your peak energy times, you’ll perform better and reduce frustration.
How to Identify Your Personal Productivity Peaks
Morning Larks vs. Night Owls
Are you wide awake at sunrise? Or do you come alive after dark? Knowing where you fall on this spectrum helps you start mapping your unique energy cycle.
Using Apps and Journals to Track Your Energy
Start tracking your mood, energy, and focus level in 1-2 hour blocks throughout the day for one week. Use tools like:
Toggl Track or RescueTime for logging tasks
Notion, Google Sheets, or pen-and-paper energy journals
Rate your energy levels from 1 to 5 after each study session
How Long to Track Patterns for Accuracy
Track consistently for 7–10 days to uncover consistent trends. Patterns that appear just once might be due to sleep, stress, or caffeine—but recurring peaks are where your power lies.
Strategies to Leverage Your Peak Times
Scheduling Your Study and Breaks Wisely
Once you know when you’re sharpest, plan accordingly:
Time of Day
Recommended Task
Peak Energy
Exams, problem sets, writing essays
Mid Energy
Watching lectures, doing quizzes
Low Energy
Reading, light revisions, breaks
Study Hacks for Low-Energy Hours
Everyone hits a slump. Here’s how to deal:
Use the Pomodoro Technique: 25 minutes focus, 5 minutes break
Try brain-stimulating music or white noise
Take movement or breathing breaks to reset your system
Tools and Apps to Maximize Your Productivity
Forest – Stay focused by growing virtual trees
Focus Keeper – Great for Pomodoro tracking
MyNoise or Brain.fm – For soundscapes that support concentration
Real Student Examples: From Chaos to Clarity
Case Study: A Triple-Peaker’s Weekly Schedule
Sarah, a business student, noticed she had three energy peaks: 8 a.m., 2 p.m., and 10 p.m. She:
Scheduled deep work (essays, exams) at 8 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Did light work (emails, admin tasks) in between
Used 10 p.m. for creative brainstorming
Her grades improved, and her burnout dropped by 40%.
How Students Improved Grades by Adjusting Their Study Hours
A study by Stanford found that students who studied during their peak times retained 25% more information than those who didn’t adjust their schedules.
Common Mistakes Students Make with Productivity Patterns
Ignoring Natural Rhythms
Trying to force yourself into someone else’s schedule can backfire. What works for your roommate might not work for you.
Overstuffing the Peak Hours with Too Many Tasks
Your energy peak is not a time to do everything. Be strategic—focus on your highest-impact tasks and protect that time from distractions.
How to Communicate Your Peaks with Coaches and Professors
Collaborating on Study Plans
If you’re working with a coach, share your energy insights. They can help tailor your weekly plan around your rhythm for maximum efficiency.
Advocating for Personalized Learning Flexibility
Online professors are often open to flexibility—as long as communication is clear. Need a day extension because you know a big exam will drain you? Ask early and explain your rationale.
Building Sustainable Routines Around Your Peaks
The secret to long-term success? Consistency. With your peaks mapped, you can build a weekly routine that fuels your strengths and supports your weaker moments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What if I don’t have a clear productivity peak?
Start tracking more closely. Some students have subtle rhythms, but once spotted, even small adjustments can help.
2. Can productivity peaks change over time?
Yes! Sleep habits, health, and even age can shift your rhythm. Reassess every few months.
3. How can I boost energy during off-peak hours?
Hydrate, stretch, take brain breaks, and limit sugar or heavy meals that cause crashes.
4. Do all students follow the same productivity cycle?
Not at all. Everyone has a unique rhythm. The key is personalization, not perfection.
5. How does online learning support different peak times?
Online courses offer flexibility to choose when to study, letting you align learning with your energy.
6. What’s the best app to track my productivity?
Try Toggl, Notion, or RescueTime. Many are free and student-friendly.
Conclusion: Own Your Rhythm and Learn Smarter
Understanding your productivity peaks isn’t just a time management trick—it’s a way to honor your natural flow and study smarter, not harder. When you work with your energy, you unlock your true potential.
Whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, FocusQuest can help you align your habits and goals. So go ahead—track those peaks, tweak your schedule, and see just how much more you can achieve.
As Student Success Coaches, we would like to take this opportunity to reach out and communicate with you directly. We understand that your academic journey can be challenging, but please know that we are here to support you every step of the way.
We want to remind you that your success is our top priority. We are here to provide you with guidance, resources, and support to help you achieve your academic goals. Whether you need assistance with time management, study skills, or navigating the university, we are here to help.
It is important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. For this reason we have created this entry to provide you with a direct message and to be able to contact us more directly. We hope you enjoy.
Student Success Coaches
May: Celebrating the Class of 2025
May 1, 2025
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Graduation season is upon us, and caps and tassels are filling the air! To all our Class of 2025 graduates – CONGRATULATIONS! You’ve reached this incredible milestone through dedication, perseverance, and countless hours of hard work. Take a moment to celebrate this achievement – you’ve earned every bit of it.
As you turn your tassel and step into the next chapter, remember that the greatest asset you possess is your belief in yourself. The confidence you’ve built and the knowledge you’ve gained will serve as the foundation for whatever path lies ahead. Whether you’re heading to graduate school, starting a career, or exploring new horizons, carry forward the resilience that brought you to this moment.
Welcome to the Journey
For those of you preparing to begin your college journey this fall, we want you to know that you have chosen a path of tremendous opportunity. The decision to pursue higher education is an investment in yourself and your future. As you stand at this threshold, know that you’re not alone.
We at FocusQuest are your champions, your cheerleaders, and your partners in success. In fact, we’re so determined to contribute to your success that we want you to be the first to know: FocusQuest will be facilitating two virtual College Preparedness workshops this summer. Registration is absolutely free because this is our gift to you for reaching this point in your academic journey. Be on the lookout for the announcement about the dates and times.
A Continuing Journey
To our graduates: your journey doesn’t end here. It transforms. The skills you’ve developed, the relationships you’ve built, and the perspectives you’ve gained will continue to shape your impact on the world. We wish you success, fulfillment, and continued growth in all your future endeavors.
To all students, whether graduating or beginning: remember that education is a lifelong journey. Keep learning, keep growing, and keep believing in your ability to achieve great things.
Here’s to new beginnings, new achievements, and the bright futures ahead!
As Student Success Coaches, we would like to take this opportunity to reach out and communicate with you directly. We understand that your academic journey can be challenging, but please know that we are here to support you every step of the way.
We want to remind you that your success is our top priority. We are here to provide you with guidance, resources, and support to help you achieve your academic goals. Whether you need assistance with time management, study skills, or navigating the university, we are here to help.
It is important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. For this reason we have created this entry to provide you with a direct message and to be able to contact us more directly. We hope you enjoy.
Student Success Coaches
April: Celebrating Your Journey
April 4, 2025
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As April unfolds, many of you are entering the final stretch of your academic year. Whether your semester ends this month or in May, take a moment to acknowledge what you’ve accomplished. In a world filled with competing demands and unprecedented challenges, your commitment to education is truly remarkable.
You’ve navigated complex assignments, balanced personal responsibilities, overcome obstacles, and continued to grow intellectually and personally. Your resilience isn’t just admirable—it’s transformative. Each challenge you’ve faced has strengthened your resolve and expanded your capabilities.
Looking Forward
For those crossing the graduation stage in the coming weeks: congratulations! This milestone represents not just academic achievement but personal triumph. As you step into the next chapter, carry with you the critical thinking skills, knowledge, and perspectives you’ve developed. The world needs your unique contributions now more than ever.
For those contemplating beginning or returning to your educational journey this fall, I encourage you to engage in thoughtful reflection. Where do you hope to be in two or four years? What path will lead you there? Education remains one of the most powerful vehicles for transformation, opportunity, and impact. Your future self will thank you for the decision to invest in your growth today.
A Final Thought
Whether you’re completing a semester, finishing a degree, or considering your next educational step, remember that learning is never wasted. Each course, each assignment, each moment of discovery contributes to who you are becoming.
The FocusQuest team celebrates your persistence and believes in your potential. As this academic year draws to a close, we honor your commitment and cheer for your continued success.
What the Closure of the U.S. Department of Education Could Mean for Current & Future Students (By Chad Williamson)
April 1, 2025
In a bold and controversial proposal, federal lawmakers are considering closing the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and transferring the management of federal student loans to the Small Business Administration (SBA). If you’re currently enrolled in an online degree program—or considering starting one—this development could significantly impact your financial aid options. At FocusQuest, we want to ensure you have the information and support you need to navigate this transition with confidence.
What’s Changing?
The proposal would dissolve the ED—long responsible for overseeing federal student aid programs—and move the entire $1.6 trillion student loan portfolio under the SBA. While the SBA has experience in managing large-scale loan programs, its focus has traditionally been on small business financing, not higher education.
Key Concerns for Students
Disruptions in Loan Processing The SBA’s unfamiliarity with student loan infrastructure could result in delays or errors in processing federal aid. As adult learners balancing work and family commitments, any delay in financial aid could disrupt your course enrollment or ability to purchase learning materials.
Uncertainty Around Income-Driven Repayment Plans Federal programs such as Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) and Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) may undergo revisions—or potentially face elimination. These programs are especially important for adult learners who often juggle education alongside full-time employment or public service roles.
Pell Grants and Financial Support Pell Grants, a key source of non-repayable aid for many online students, are currently managed by the ED. It’s unclear whether the SBA would continue offering such grants, or under what terms.
Record-Keeping and Servicing Issues Transferring millions of loan records from one agency to another could lead to data loss or servicing errors. Students may face challenges in accessing accurate payment histories or applying for deferments.
What You Can Do Now
Current Students
Stay Updated Follow credible news sources and official government communications. Check updates directly from studentaid.gov for the latest.
Download and Store Your Records Keep digital and hard copies of your financial aid documents, loan agreements, and repayment history.
Consider Contingency Plans If you’re close to graduation, assess how possible delays might affect your final semester. Explore whether your institution offers emergency financial support.
Engage With Your Institution Many online universities, including FocusQuest, are preparing to support students during this potential transition. Reach out to your advisor for personalized guidance.
Prospective Students
If you’re considering enrolling in a degree program, now is the time to act.
Changes to federal financial aid may impact future eligibility and funding availability.
FocusQuest encourages all prospective students to take advantage of current aid programs while they are still in place.
Don’t wait until uncertainty affects your educational plan
Contact FocusQuest today to speak with an advisor and take the next step toward your degree.
Celebrating National Volunteer Month: The Power of Giving Back
April 1, 2025
At FocusQuest, we believe in the transformative power of education—but we also know that learning extends beyond the classroom. National Volunteer Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the incredible impact of volunteers who dedicate their time, skills, and passion to making a difference.
Why Volunteering Matters
Volunteering is more than just giving back; it’s an opportunity to grow, connect, and inspire. Whether mentoring students, serving in local communities, or leading service projects, volunteers play a vital role in shaping a better future. For students, engaging in volunteer work fosters leadership, strengthens resumes, and builds a sense of purpose that extends into their academic and professional lives.
Making an Impact in Education
Education and volunteerism go hand in hand. From tutoring younger students to participating in campus-led initiatives, student volunteers help create a culture of support and collaboration. At FocusQuest, we encourage students to use their knowledge and skills to uplift others—because when we help others succeed, we all rise together.
How You Can Get Involved
Looking for ways to make an impact? Here are some ways to give back this month: ✅ Mentor a Student – Share your academic experiences and offer guidance. ✅ Volunteer Locally – Join community service projects in your area. ✅ Support a Cause You Care About – Find organizations that align with your passions. ✅ Inspire Others – Share your volunteer journey to encourage others to take action.
Let’s Celebrate the Spirit of Service
National Volunteer Month is a reminder that every act of kindness—big or small—makes a difference. Whether you’re already an active volunteer or looking for ways to get started, your contributions matter. At FocusQuest, we honor and appreciate all those who dedicate their time and talents to uplifting others.
As Student Success Coaches, we would like to take this opportunity to reach out and communicate with you directly. We understand that your academic journey can be challenging, but please know that we are here to support you every step of the way.
We want to remind you that your success is our top priority. We are here to provide you with guidance, resources, and support to help you achieve your academic goals. Whether you need assistance with time management, study skills, or navigating the university, we are here to help.
It is important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. For this reason we have created this entry to provide you with a direct message and to be able to contact us more directly. We hope you enjoy.
Student Success Coaches
March: Reinforcing our Commitment to Supporting Academic Excellence and Personal Growth.
March 3, 2025
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This past week brought the wonderful opportunity to present a session for student leaders at the UNCF NAC/NPAC Leadership Conference. Meeting these remarkable students was truly a highlight of the event. Engaging in conversations about their academic journeys, hearing about their struggles and accomplishments, and witnessing their determination firsthand – these moments powerfully remind us why we do what we do at FocusQuest. Each student’s story reinforces our commitment to supporting academic excellence and personal growth.
Finding Your Second Wind: Strategies for the Final Push
As we move past midterms and spring break into the crucial final weeks of the semester, many students find themselves at a crossroads. The initial enthusiasm of January has faded, fatigue may be setting in, and the finish line might seem distant. This is the perfect moment to find your “second wind” – that renewed energy and focus that will carry you through to success.
Reassess and Recalibrate
Take a moment to honestly evaluate your midterm performance. What worked well? What didn’t? This isn’t about dwelling on disappointments but using them as valuable data to adjust your approach. Remember that struggle isn’t failure – it’s feedback.
Small Steps, Big Impact
The remainder of the semester might seem overwhelming when viewed as a whole. Break it down into weekly goals, then daily tasks. Each completed assignment, each productive study session, and each question asked in class moves you forward. Celebrate these small victories.
Connect and Collaborate
Now is the time to strengthen your support network. Form study groups with classmates, schedule time with tutors, and meet with your professors during office hours. The most successful students aren’t those who never struggle – they’re those who know when and how to seek help.
Prioritize Self-Care
Your brain performs best when your body is well-cared for. Maintain regular sleep schedules when you can, incorporate movement into your day, and fuel yourself with nutritious foods. Even brief moments of mindfulness or short walks outside can refresh your mind and improve focus.
Remember Your ‘Why’
Reconnect with the reasons you’re pursuing your education. Whether it’s career aspirations, personal growth, or creating a better future for yourself and others – keep this purpose at the forefront of your mind when motivation wanes.
The coming weeks will test your resilience, but they also offer the greatest opportunity for growth. At FocusQuest, we believe in your ability to finish strong. Our academic coaches are here to support you every step of the way as you transform challenges into achievements.
As Student Success Coaches, we would like to take this opportunity to reach out and communicate with you directly. We understand that your academic journey can be challenging, but please know that we are here to support you every step of the way.
We want to remind you that your success is our top priority. We are here to provide you with guidance, resources, and support to help you achieve your academic goals. Whether you need assistance with time management, study skills, or navigating the university, we are here to help.
It is important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. For this reason we have created this entry to provide you with a direct message and to be able to contact us more directly. We hope you enjoy.
Student Success Coaches
February: Celebrating Education, History, and Human Connection
February 5, 2025
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As we step into February, a month that holds special significance as both Black History Month and a time to celebrate love, we’re reminded of education’s powerful role in building bridges and fostering understanding.
At FocusQuest, we believe that education is more than just earning degrees – it’s about growing as individuals, expanding our perspectives, and learning to engage meaningfully with people from all walks of life. Our focus on HBCUs reflects our commitment to institutions that have long stood as beacons of academic excellence and cultural heritage.
In times of change and challenge, education remains our most powerful tool for progress. It equips us with the ability to think critically, engage in meaningful dialogue, and work toward positive change in our communities. Through learning, we develop the empathy and understanding needed to build a more inclusive future.
The path to academic success requires more than just showing up to class. It demands focus to stay on track with your goals, determination to push through challenges, and resilience when facing obstacles. These qualities aren’t just academic skills – they’re life skills that will serve you well beyond your college years.
Remember, your educational journey is uniquely yours. Whether you’re pursuing a degree at an HBCU, working toward certification, or exploring new academic horizons, you’re part of a proud tradition of scholars who understand that knowledge is the key to transformation – both personal and societal.
Stay committed to your goals, keep pushing forward, and never underestimate the power of your education to create positive change. Your success story is still being written, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Here’s to a February filled with learning, growth, and meaningful connections. Your determination today shapes tomorrow’s possibilities.
As the calendar turns to a new year, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the journey of 2024. This isn’t about clichéd “New Year’s Resolutions” destined to fade by February. Instead, it’s a chance to thoughtfully evaluate the past year: the wins we cherished, the lessons we learned, and the moments we wish to relive. It’s about resolving to grow, adapt, and create a clear path toward a better version of ourselves.
At FocusQuest, we believe meaningful resolutions involve a deep dive into three key areas: Finances, Personal Development, and Fun. Here’s how you can use these pillars to build a more fulfilling and balanced year ahead:
Finances: Save More, Earn More
Money isn’t everything, but financial stability can open doors to the life you want to live. Here’s how to improve your financial health in 2025:
– Set Clear Savings Goals: Define specific targets, whether it’s building an emergency fund, saving for a dream vacation, or planning for long-term investments. Use budgeting apps to track your progress. – Explore New Income Streams: Think about monetizing a hobby, starting a side hustle, or pursuing additional education or certifications to boost your earning potential. – Cut Unnecessary Expenses: Review your spending habits and identify where you can trim costs without sacrificing your quality of life.
Personal Development: Learn More to Be Better Growth is a lifelong journey. Invest in yourself this year by committing to learning and self-improvement:
– Upskill for Career Advancement: Take advantage of online courses, workshops, or certifications that align with your professional goals. Platforms like FocusQuest can help you navigate your learning journey. – Cultivate Healthy Habits: Focus on routines that nourish your mind and body, such as regular exercise, mindfulness practices, or reading daily. – Seek Feedback: Ask for constructive input from colleagues, mentors, and loved ones to identify areas for improvement and build stronger connections.
Fun: Do More of What You Love While work and growth are important, so is joy. Make room for activities that bring you happiness and recharge your spirit:
– Plan Adventures: Whether it’s traveling to a new destination or exploring your local area, prioritize experiences that excite you. – Reconnect with Hobbies: Rediscover passions that may have taken a backseat, like painting, playing an instrument, or gardening. – Cherish Relationships: Spend quality time with the people who matter most. Shared experiences often create the most lasting memories.
Crafting Your Action Plan
Resolutions without a plan are just dreams. To make your goals a reality:
Write Them Down: Document your goals and break them into actionable steps.
Schedule Regular Check-Ins: Evaluate your progress monthly to stay accountable and make adjustments as needed.
Celebrate Small Wins: Recognize your achievements along the way to stay motivated.
A Year of Possibilities
2025 is a blank canvas, ready for you to paint your masterpiece. By focusing on your finances, personal development, and the joys that make life worth living, you can create a year that’s not just good but extraordinary. Let’s resolve to learn, grow, and thrive together.
Chad Williamson Chief Executive Officer, FocusQuest
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