From Burnout to Breakthrough: How Learning to be a Student changed Everything

In this inspiring launch of our Transfer Basics Series, Josh Kahn shares how losing a full-ride scholarship and dropping out of college became the turning point that taught him how to truly be a student. This episode is packed with tips on time management, planning, and building habits for academic success, especially for first-gen and transfer-bound students.

When people think of a good student, they often picture someone with straight A’s, strong test performance, or perfect recall of class lectures. But these traits only scratch the surface. Academic excellence is less about inherent intelligence and more about consistent, intentional actions.

Key Habits That Define Academic Success:

• Preparation: Taking charge of what you can control (time, effort, resources).
• Study Skills: Building habits that support information retention and deeper understanding.
• Note-Taking: Creating useful records of class material that help reinforce learning.
• Attendance & Engagement: Showing up, both physically and mentally, every day.
• Time Management: Prioritizing effectively and staying ahead of deadlines.

These are not innate talents. They are learnable, repeatable practices; and they can make the difference between barely getting by and truly thriving.

Josh’s journey didn’t end in failure. After a few difficult years, he returned to school, completed his undergraduate degree, and entered the workforce. From there, he took on a variety of jobs, some better than others, before landing a position at a Swiss pharmaceutical company’s U.S. office.

While working, he pursued an MBA, this time armed with the academic skills he never had before. From there, he transitioned into a boutique consulting firm, helping major pharmaceutical and biotech clients solve complex organizational challenges.

What changed? Not his IQ, but his approach. He learned how to plan, prepare, and execute with precision. He became disciplined. And he committed to mastering the process of learning.

The real measure of success isn’t where you start, it’s how you adapt, grow, and build the skills that carry you forward. Whether you're a transfer student, first-gen trailblazer, or returning learner, your journey matters. Commit to mastering the small habits that lead to big opportunities. And when in doubt, let #TecoGuide be your partner every step of the way.

Start building your future today, with intention, structure, and support.

#TecoGuide, the only app designed to help you navigate your college and career journey in the quickest and most affordable way. Brought to you by #EdTechQuity, we are committed to opening doors to higher education and career opportunities for all.

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