Getting Organized - Lists, Literature & Letters

Getting Organized - Lists, Literature & LettersIntroduction: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!