Author: Francisco Feliciani

Summer Success & Smart Preparation 

Hey FocusQuest family! Happy 4th of July! 🎆 

I hope you’re enjoying all the fun that summer brings – backyard barbecues, time with family and friends, and maybe some well-deserved relaxation time! As you’re planning your holiday celebrations, just remember to stay safe around those fireworks.  We want you healthy and ready for all the amazing things ahead! 

For Our Fall College-Bound Students 

Summer is flying by, which means it’s time for a friendly reminder to check those college preparation boxes! Make sure you’re staying on top of registration deadlines, housing applications, and all those important details that’ll help you start strong. And here’s a fun idea – why not take a casual peek at some of the classes you might be taking this fall? Do a little browsing about your potential subjects. It’s like getting a sneak preview of your academic adventure! Trust me when I tell you that it is worth it! 

Future Graduates – This One’s for You: 

If you’re graduating next year, summer is prime time for building your professional network! Consider seeking out internships or setting up informational interviews with people who have the jobs you want. Ask them about their work – Do they love what they do? What does a typical day look like? The questions are endless, but here’s the real magic: you’re making connections in your industry. That’s networking in action! Remember, while you’re busy professionalizing yourself and developing those exceptional team member skills, sometimes it really is about who you know, not just what you know. 

To Our Year-Round Students: 

For those of you pushing through summer programs without a break – keep going! You’re getting closer to your goals with every class, every assignment, every step forward. Your dedication is inspiring. 

No matter where you are in your journey, enjoy this summer season and embrace the vacation vibes when you can. Remember, we’re your success champions, and we’re cheering you on every step of the way! 

You’ve got this! 

Dr. Ndala Booker 

Chief Student Success Officer 

FocusQuest 

Your guide to starting strong and staying ahead in your college journey. 

Starting college is a huge milestone—and it’s totally normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves. Whether you’re stepping onto campus or logging into your first online course, one thing is true: what you do in your first few weeks can shape your entire college experience. 

At Focus Quest, we’ve helped countless students succeed through HBCU-based online programs. We’ve seen the patterns. We’ve heard the stories. So, we’re breaking down the top 5 mistakes new college students make—and how to avoid them like a pro. 

🚫 Mistake #1: Thinking College Is Just Like High School 

Why It Happens: Students expect the same level of structure and support they had before. 
The Fix: 
College = independence. You manage your schedule, seek support, and stay on top of deadlines. Start using a planner (physical or digital) and treat school like a job—with goals and accountability. 

🔥 Pro Tip: Join a student success workshop (like the ones Focus Quest offers!) to build time management and learning strategies early. 

🚫 Mistake #2: Waiting Too Long to Ask for Help 

Why It Happens: Fear of looking unprepared or not wanting to bother others. 
The Fix: 
Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed. Use office hours, academic advising, peer tutors, or the student support systems your HBCU offers. Asking for help = showing you’re serious about success. 

📢 Remember: Every strong student once had to ask for help, too. 

🚫 Mistake #3: Overcommitting (Clubs, Classes, Jobs…) 

Why It Happens: Ambition is great—but burnout is real. 
The Fix: 
Start small. Pick 1–2 meaningful commitments outside of class. Balance is key. Online learning through Focus Quest gives flexibility, but that doesn’t mean you need to say yes to everything. 

🚫 Mistake #4: Underestimating Online Classes 

Why It Happens: “Online” is often mistaken for “easy.” 
The Fix: 
Online = self-discipline. Treat your online program like an in-person one: create a study space, log in regularly, and engage with your instructors. Focus Quest’s partner programs are built for real-life schedules—but they still require real effort. 

🚫 Mistake #5: Forgetting to Take Care of Yourself 

Why It Happens: The pressure to perform can lead to burnout fast. 
The Fix: 
Sleep, move, eat well, and take breaks. College is a long-distance run, not a sprint. Prioritize mental health and lean into the community around you. 

✅ Final Thoughts: 

College is a chance to grow—not just academically, but personally. These mistakes are common—but avoidable. If you stay proactive, stay connected, and stay kind to yourself, success isn’t just possible—it’s expected.