About this episode
I recently spoke with Jennifer Gershberg, a campus and keynote speaker and former University of Maryland professor. Through her campus programs, keynotes, trainings, and online courses, she helps prospective and current college students build confidence and competence by teaching them the fundamental skills they need for academic and professional success. While on the faculty at the University of Maryland, Jennifer won numerous teaching awards, including the highly coveted Allen J. Krowe Award for Teaching Excellence. She has been a featured guest on multiple podcasts, including Real Housewives of New Jersey Margaret Josephs’ “Caviar Dreams, Tuna Fish Budget.” Jennifer attended Cornell University and the George Washington University Law School.
Jennifer’s speaking career is a product of her deep concern for and commitment to student wellbeing. As a professor, she observed a continuous decline in student competencies and mental health following the pandemic and felt compelled to broaden her impact, leading her to this work. Jennifer is known for her natural ease and connection with students, relatability, genuine investment in student success, and being “nurturing but tough -- exactly what students need.” (source: a student)
In our conversation, we discussed:
How students build confidence and reduce anxiety
Some of the academic challenges she noticed college students commonly face
Advice for students who need to ask for letters of recommendation
Advice for parents to help their children launch into college successfully
To connect with Jennifer, go to jgtalks.org.
Good News & Bad News
The bad news: Let’s be honest—the transition to college comes with challenges. As March arrives, many students and parents are feeling the pinch of college costs. The merit aid offered by colleges is often less than hoped for, and concerns about students thriving without the guardrails of high school are increasing.
Now, here’s the good news: I’ve partnered with former college professor Jennifer Gershberg to help you turn these hurdles into opportunities for success. Jennifer is passionate about equipping students with essential skills—from time management to building strong relationships with professors—that set them up for college and beyond.
Her “Welcome to College! Bootcamp for Incoming Students” is specifically designed to prepare incoming students for the demands of college life, making the transition smoother and more confident. For just $159—a tiny investment compared to the staggering costs of college—this course offers immense value.
And here’s the best part: when you enroll through
