Respond one of your colleagues’ posts by offering a possible resolution to their  questions/concerns with supporting documentation, if possible, or  expanding on their thinking and providing an example as support. The most difficult question for me to answer when starting a master’s program was – did I make the right choice? After being accepted and following through with the admission process, it became clear that advancing my career was necessary in order to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner to fulfill my aspirations in life. Although after being accepted to Walden, a whole new bundle of questions arose. How do I manage my personal life, time for self-care, work, and now reserving time for academics? Aside from the time management aspect, I question my strength at writing papers, especially when it comes to writing in APA format. After posing these questions, I began searching for ways in which to be successful at both time management and successful writing tips. I gained insight by asking colleagues that I had listed in my academic success plan about time management and tips for APA writing. I also researched ways in which to be successful in an online Master’s program. According to Kelsey Sheehy, a contributor to US News, success in online programs “requires discipline, commitment, and organization” (2012). Sheehy went on to suggest that planning and setting aside time for course work helps to maintain a balance between work, family, and course work (2012). Having persistence and self- efficacy will also be imperative in maintaining success as an online learner alongside my ability to plan each week (“10 Traits of a Successful Online Learner” 2019). It is evident that to maintain a healthy balance of all areas of my life, I must prioritize planning as part of my success. When it came to my concern about whether I could be successful at writing, I was relieved to find that Walden University offers a writing center. The writing center provides support when it comes to writing APA papers. Being able to utilize this resource before becoming overwhelmed will give me better control over my learning (Kauffman, 2015). The school writing center offers live webinars, as well as the ability to schedule appointments to address questions I have regarding APA allows me to feel more confident about my writing abilities. Having resources and support with my writing questions ultimately helps me feel more confident that I can be successful within my Master’s program.

I would like to respond to my colleague’s post by offering a possible resolution to their concerns about managing their personal life, time for self-care, work, and academics, as well as their worries about writing in APA format. I understand that balancing all these responsibilities can be difficult, especially when starting a master’s program. However, with proper planning, organization, and the support of resources such as the writing center, it is possible to succeed in all areas.

In order to manage personal life, work, and academics efficiently, it is important to prioritize and create a schedule that allows for dedicated time for each aspect. As mentioned in the post, planning and setting aside time for coursework is essential. This can be achieved by creating a weekly schedule that includes specific time slots for studying, personal activities, and work. By having a clear plan in place, it becomes easier to allocate time for each aspect of life and prevent overlapping or neglected responsibilities.

Additionally, it is crucial to maintain self-discipline and commitment to the program. This requires setting goals and sticking to them, even when faced with competing demands. Being aware of personal strengths and weaknesses can help in finding effective strategies for managing time and maintaining focus. For instance, if someone is more productive in the mornings, they can dedicate that time to studying, while reserving evenings for personal activities or relaxation.

Furthermore, seeking support from colleagues and utilizing available resources is key to success. As mentioned in the post, the writing center at Walden University offers assistance with writing in APA format. This resource can be immensely helpful in enhancing writing skills and addressing any concerns. The writing center provides live webinars and appointment options, allowing students to seek guidance and clarification on APA guidelines. By taking advantage of such resources early on, one can gain confidence in their writing abilities and avoid feeling overwhelmed later in the program.

To further illustrate this resolution, let me provide an example. Imagine a student who is starting a master’s program while also working full-time and having personal commitments. This student decides to create a weekly schedule allocating specific time slots for work, coursework, and personal activities. They identify their most productive hours and dedicate those to studying. Additionally, they reach out to colleagues for advice and utilize the writing center’s resources to improve their writing skills. By following this plan and seeking support, the student is able to effectively manage their time and become more confident in their writing abilities.

In conclusion, while starting a master’s program can bring about a range of questions and concerns, it is important to remember that success is possible with the right approach. Prioritizing and planning, coupled with discipline and commitment, can help in balancing personal life, work, and academics. Additionally, utilizing available resources such as the writing center can provide invaluable support and guidance. By implementing these strategies and seeking the necessary support, one can overcome obstacles and thrive in their master’s program.