Getting Organized - Lists, Literature & Letters
Introduction:
- Welcome to the Black-Liberation.Tech podcast!
- Host: Dr. Renee Jordan.
- Topic: Importance of getting organized and practical steps to achieve it.
Personal Anecdote:
- Sharing a story about helping one of Dr. Jordan’s nieces at Morgan State University get organized.
- Emphasis on the importance of staying organized.
Making Lists:
- Create a comprehensive list based on course syllabi.
- Map out the entire semester, including due dates for assignments, projects, and tests.
- Use lists to transition into calendars and schedules.
- Allocate time according to the complexity of the subjects.
Detailed Breakdown:
- Include course names, assignments, chapters to read, due dates, and grade weights.
- Example: Lab assignments vs. other coursework.
Checking Off Tasks:
- Celebrate accomplishments, no matter how small.
- Suggestions for rewards: Breaks, favorite activities, treats, and self-care.
Application in Work Life:
- Use lists for full-time work and long-term projects.
- Example: Writing quarterly reports to simplify annual reports.
Personal Example - Doctoral Research:
- Dr. Jordan’s experience with a literature review in her doctoral program.
- Importance of aligning coursework with personal research interests.
- Benefits: Progress in PhD journey, coursework completion, and comprehensive exam preparation.
Comprehensive Exams:
- Approach exams as a demonstration of learned knowledge.
- Focus on showing connections and understanding rather than just correct answers.
Research for Marginalized Communities:
- Look beyond mainstream academic texts.
- Seek literature from experts within marginalized communities.
- Focus on asset-based narratives.
Getting Organized for Applications:
- Steps for organizing applications for programs or jobs.
- Importance of setting deadlines for others (e.g., recommendation letters).
- Drafting letters of recommendation and support.
- Example: Policy analysis project in a Master’s program.
Tips for Drafting Letters:
- Highlight specific experiences and strengths.
- Provide drafts to recommenders to make their task easier.
- Send more requests than needed to ensure adequate support.
Conclusion:
- Recap of key points: Comprehensive lists, aligning coursework with research, celebrating achievements, organizing applications.
Thank you for listening, and have a great day!
