This story is sponsored by The Jed Foundation (JED) and is dedicated to promoting mental health support for teens and young adults on college campuses nationwide.

For many first-year students, the start of college can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. Life transitions are so much easier and enjoyable with the right support. The Jed Foundation (JED), a leading national nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for teens and young adults, helps students manage their emotional health, cope with challenges, and support the people in their lives.

JED’s Set to Go program offers easy-to-use resources and guides that meet students where they are so they can manage the transition to college with less stress and more confidence. Set to Go provides  in-depth information covering important topics such as managing homesickness, getting to know campus services, asking for help, staying safe on campus, adjusting to college life as a first-generation student or student veteran, taking care of mental health in college, and much more.

“It’s important for not only first-year students, but all college students, to understand that they are not alone during this big transition. There are all kinds of support available, including mental health services,” says Dr. Laura Erickson-Schroth, JED’s Chief Medical Officer. “College is a great time to learn the skills of advocating for yourself and putting in place the things you need to feel comfortable and be successful.”

As part of a nationwide original research study conducted by JED to investigate the expectations and experiences faced by teens and young adults as they transition from high school to college, 830 participants ranging in age from 16 to 24 were asked for their perspectives on the types of support they want and the systems that have been most helpful to them^[1].

The study’s findings helped to inform and guide JED’s Set to Go programming and included the following tips.

Create a Support Network

As a first-year student, you may experience at least some awkwardness building a new social life when starting school. JED’s research finds that nearly half of current or former college students report feeling out of place or isolated while in college. There’s nothing weird or wrong about feeling unsettled or lonely in the first few weeks or months at school. It’s actually normal. The good news is that going off to college doesn’t mean losing your network, but rather it gives you the opportunity to strengthen existing connections and build a larger, more robust support system.

• Take time to build relationships with classmates, roommates, and professors. Building a community will help you feel a sense of belonging and support. CDC data shows that students who feel more connected to people at their school have better mental health. While fostering connections and building new friendships, make a mental note of people who make you feel safe, heard, and seen. Knowing who you feel comfortable talking to—and being yourself around—will ensure that you have someone to lean on when times are tough. Here are some quick tips for creating connections in college:

◦ How to Feel More Connected On Campus
◦ How to Make Friends in College
◦ Finding Your Latiné Community in College

• Utilize campus support. Most schools offer a variety of academic, social, and emotional resources and support. These offices and staff members are there for a reason: to help you make the most of college. Use them. Check out these guides to find on-campus support.

◦ The Importance of Asking for Help in College
◦ College Campus Services Explained

Prioritize Self-Care

A majority of current or former college students cite maintaining a healthy routine as a challenge. Prepare for it by dedicating time to activities that recharge your mind and body, such as regular exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time in nature. Check out these guides:

• Self-Care for College Students
• Staying Active on Campus
• Your Guide to Actually Getting Good Sleep in College

Reach Out

If you experience struggles during your freshman year, you are not alone: 14% of students reported suicidal ideation this year, 6% planned a suicide, and 2% attempted suicide.

• Lean on your friends, family, and faculty. It’s never too early to start conversations about mental health. Here are some tips for having the conversation:

◦ How to Tell Your Parents or Caregivers You’re Struggling
◦ How to Tell Someone, “I’m Depressed,” and Ask for Help
◦ How to Tell Someone You’re Thinking About Suicide

• Get professional support. Don’t hesitate to connect with a mental health care provider if you’re struggling. It’s a sign of strength to reach out for help when you need it, and trained professionals are there to support you. Here are ways to find that support in college:

◦ Finding Mental Health Help as a College Student
◦ Getting Health Care and Mental Health Care on College Campuses

Set to Go also provides resources for families and educators to help them assist you while also caring for themselves during this pivotal transition.

# # #

This is intended as a resource only and not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health-care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress or a mental health, suicide, or substance-use crisis, reach out 24/7 to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) by dialing or texting 988 or using chat services at suicidepreventionlifeline.org to connect to a trained crisis counselor.

For more information on The Jed Foundation or its Mental Health Resource Center, please visit jedfoundation.org.

Media Contact
Justin Barbo
Director of Public Relations
The Jed Foundation
Justin@jedfoundation.org
914-844-4611

^[1] This sample was representative of the U.S. population of 16- to 24-year-olds, with respect to race/ethnicity and geographic region. Participants were a mix of current high school students, current and former college students, and high school graduates who did not attend college.

Tracfone Deals Help College Kids Kick It Old School with New Flip Phones

[MIAMI, September 7, 2023] – It’s called ‘the flip phone revolution.’ Celebrities and tastemakers alike are embracing nostalgia and making the switch to a flip phone. And now, Gen Z college students across the nation are making the switch, too. As students are looking for more ways to disconnect and live in the moment – whether for a night out or more permanently – Tracfone is here with the best student deals on flip phones to make the smartphone detox a breeze.

The resurgence of flip phones among college students is driven by a desire for nostalgia and practicality. These iconic devices offer a break from the distractions of constant notifications and the addictive nature of social media, promoting focus and mindfulness – and a way to make memories IRL instead of on the screen.

Check out www.Tracfone.com for great deals on flip phones, and unlimited talk and text plans starting at $15/month with no contracts or extra fees.

About Tracfone Wireless

Tracfone Wireless provides quality no-contract wireless solutions to value-conscious consumers and is available at more than 90,000 retail locations nationwide, as well as at tracfone.com.

Tracfone is part of the Verizon Value portfolio of prepaid brands, which includes Straight Talk, Total by Verizon, Visible, Simple Mobile, SafeLink, Walmart Family Mobile, and Verizon Prepaid. Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) is one of the world’s leading providers of technology, communications, information and entertainment products and services.

For more information on Tracfone, visit tracfone.com.

Media Contact

David Root
Media@TracFone.com

What’s the scoop: For a limited time, members of Xfinity Rewards, the company’s free customer appreciation program, can redeem two sweet rewards: a $1 movie weekend rental through Xfinity and a free pint of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream added to their Gopuff order. Xfinity Reward members new to Gopuff will also have access to an exclusive offer for three months of Gopuff FAM, a subscription service that provides unparalleled convenience and a vast array of products delivered right at your doorstep.

Why it matters: Everyone loves saving money! That’s why Xfinity Rewards and Gopuff have teamed up to bring even more value and convenience to millions of people across the nation. Whether you want a quiet night in or are setting the scene for the ultimate movie night, Xfinity Rewards and Gopuff are making it easier than ever to get your summer essentials delivered right to your door- and television screen!

How to get this offer: To redeem these exclusive rewards, Xfinity Rewards members can simply visit xfinity.com/rewards or go to the Xfinity app.

Restrictions apply. Offer limited to current Xfinity Rewards members 18+ with account in good standing. While supplies last. Limited time offer. Eligible Xfinity Rewards members (“Members”) must have a delivery address within a Gopuff delivery zone to redeem the offer. Comcast reserves the right to modify or cancel the offer at any time. May not be assigned or transferred. All redemptions are final. To access the FAM free trial (“Trial”), Members must create a Gopuff account and add a payment method using https://webo.onelink.me/TC5V/j0tytuj1 . Trial customers will be auto-enrolled into a paid FAM subscription (currently $7.99/month) at the end of the 3-month Trial period unless they cancel their membership prior to the end of the 3-month Trial period. Users can cancel their FAM subscription at any time. The Trial is not available to customers who currently have an account with Gopuff or had a Gopuff account at any time. To redeem one free pint of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream equal to a listed price on Gopuff of $6.99 or less (the “Product”) while supplies last, Members must add one product to their cart, enter the unique one-time-use promo code (“Code”) provided to them within the Xfinity Rewards platform and apply the Code at www.gopuff.com or on the Gopuff mobile app. In order to activate the offer, the Code must be entered at checkout or the discount will not be applied. The Code will not be added automatically and cannot be applied retrospectively. The Code cannot be used in connection with any other promotions, and can only be applied when it is the highest value promotion available to the customer on the Customer’s account. Existing customers will be charged a small order fee of $4.95 if after the application of applicable discounts and promotions their basket is under $12.95, and new Gopuff customers must meet a minimum order value of $8.95 (excluding the value of the Code, delivery fee, and tips) to redeem the offer. The offer is non-transferable and has no cash value. The offer is void if not redeemed by 9/15/23. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Void where prohibited. One Trial and one Code per account/household. May not be combined with other offers. Use of the Gopuff mobile application and www.gopuff.com is subject to their terms & conditions and privacy notice.

About Xfinity Rewards:
Xfinity Rewards is a free program available to Xfinity customers. Members enjoy access to exclusive discounts, events, and virtual and live experiences that only Comcast NBCUniversal can make possible. Signing up is simple to do through the Xfinity App or online at Xfinity.com/rewards. Upon registration, members will be assigned Silver, Gold, Platinum, or Diamond status based on how long they’ve been a Xfinity customer—and more rewards are accessible to those who have been with Xfinity the longest.  Xfinity Rewards will continue to evolve with regular updates to benefits available to all members, and new and exciting opportunities throughout the year.  For more information about Xfinity Rewards, please download the Xfinity App or visit xfinity.com/rewards.

Media Contact:
Veauna Howell
Comcast Corporation
Veauna_howell@comcast.com

Internet and mobile back-to-school deals from Xfinity fit university students’ lifestyle and budget

Eligible students can take advantage of additional savings of up to $30 a month with the Affordable Connectivity Program

PHILADELPHIA – August 9, 2023 – Would you share a bar of soap or deodorant with your roommate? Sharing can be hard, but thanks to Xfinity Internet, sharing your Internet connection is easy. University students living off campus may be eligible for exclusive deals for as low as $25 per month, with WiFi equipment included, a two-year price guarantee and no annual contract.

Whether you need basic Internet to research for that term paper, or the fastest speeds for online gaming, Xfinity’s got you covered with three tiers of service based on your budget and your needs:

Signing up is easy. Visit https://www.xfinity.com/student or scan the QR code below to view the exclusive student offers in your area. You can also sign up by calling 1-800-XFINITY (1-800-934-6489) or by visiting one of our stores.

After you’ve signed up for Xfinity Internet, use our Snapchat lens to play our “Would You Rather” game to make those tough choices on what to share with your roomie (toothbrush, anyone?).

Xfinity Mobile – The Best Kept Secret in Mobile
While some new roomies can be a nightmare, Xfinity brings a lot to the table. Xfinity also offers a wireless service, Xfinity Mobile. With almost 6 million lines added since its launch in 2017, Xfinity Mobile is one of the fastest growing mobile providers in the country. Rated the fastest mobile service with 5G and millions of WiFi hotspots in Comcast service areas*, Xfinity Mobile delivers a great wireless experience for less money. Xfinity Mobile also has the latest phones, with exclusive offers like up to $1,000 off a new Samsung Galaxy phone. It’s also the perfect mobile service for taking abroad with Xfinity Mobile’s Global Travel Pass.

Learn more about the convenience and reliability Xfinity Mobile offers here.

Affordable Connectivity Program – How to Qualify
You also may qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides a monthly credit of up to $30 toward your Internet bill. To qualify, you must meet the program’s eligibility criteria which can be found here. You may qualify if the entire household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level (for example, $55,500/year for a family of four, $27,180/year for an individual) or if you receive assistance through certain government programs, including if you received a Federal Pell Grant during the current school year.

Learn more about Comcast’s Internet service offerings that are fully covered by the ACP benefit.

About Comcast Corporation
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.

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Contact
Camillia Travia
215-286-3350
Camillia_Travia@comcast.com

FCAS Introduces the Blue Square as a Unifying Symbol Against Antisemitism

Foxboro, Mass. [March 28, 2023] – The Foundation to Combat Antisemitism today launched a new, national campaign to mobilize all Americans, and especially non-Jews, to #StandUpToJewishHate by using the blue square emoji  – 🟦 – as a unifying symbol of support. Jews only make up 2.4% of the American population^[1] yet are the victims of 55% of religious-based hate crimes^[2]. That startling discrepancy is the cornerstone of this new omnichannel campaign, created through a $25 million investment by Robert K. Kraft and his family, which combines alarming data with humanizing storytelling representing everyday instances of antisemitism to encourage audiences to recognize Jewish hate in order to stand up against it.

Through the #StandUpToJewishHate campaign, the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism is establishing 🟦, the Blue Square emoji already on all smartphones, as a simple, but powerful symbol of solidarity and support for the Jewish community. The 🟦 will make its debut by taking up 2.4% of TV and digital screens, billboards and social feeds to call attention to the disturbing disparity between the Jewish population size and scale of hate the community faces, both online and in-person.

While high-profile events have started to make more people aware of antisemitism in the past year, many outside the Jewish community still are not aware of or recognize the scale of Jewish hate. According to a survey by Wunderman Thompson SONAR, over 52% of U.S. adults 18+ do not believe “antisemitism is a big problem,” and 45% believe that Jewish people are more than capable of handling issues of antisemitism on their own^[3]. Another recent study from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) found that 85% of Americans believe at least one anti-Jewish trope^[4]. Additionally, the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism has observed an increase in discussion of antisemitism online over the past two years, with the biggest increases in conversation in 2022 related to antisemitic flyers, conspiracy theories, and the Holocaust^[5]. We cannot let 2.4% of the population fight antisemitism on its own.

“The #StandUpToJewishHate campaign is designed to raise awareness for the fight against antisemitism, specifically among non-Jewish audiences and to help all Americans understand that there is a role for each of us to play in combating a problem that is unfortunately all too prevalent in communities across the country today,” said Robert K. Kraft, Founder of the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism. “We must stand up and take action against the rise of all hate and I hope everyone will post and share the Blue Square to show their support in this fight.”

Viewers will first see the 🟦 as part of an integrated ad campaign across NBCUniversal programming – including tonight on NBC’s Emmy Award-winning series, “The Voice” –  with hosts and talent from some of the network’s most popular shows introducing the 🟦 and raising awareness to the rising threat of antisemitism. Utilizing NBCUniversal’s platform to bring this crucial message to audiences everywhere, the 🟦 will additionally be featured on Bravo’s “Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen,” and the Daytime Emmy-winning talk show “The Kelly Clarkson Show.” Also, Kraft will appear on “TODAY” to discuss the rise in antisemitism and efforts to combat it.

The #StandUpToJewishHate campaign will also appear on other major media networks and within other popular programming, including the NBA, NHL Playoffs and NFL Draft as well as be featured on numerous social media platforms in partnership with Twitter, TikTok and YouTube.

On the heels of introducing the 🟦, a series of advertisements directed by Derek Cianfrance will highlight scenarios inspired by real-life antisemitic activity the Jewish community currently faces, such as the fact that nearly 70% of Jewish Americans faced antisemitic hate online last year.^[6] While many Jews will be able to easily relate to the everyday scenarios in the spots, they were shot and scripted to especially humanize and contextualize antisemitism for non-Jewish audiences and feature the role non-Jews can play to #StandUpToJewishHate.

“Our Foundation has tracked a steady rise in antisemitic rhetoric on social media since 2020, with an increase of 14 percent in the past year,” said Matthew Berger, Executive Director of the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism. “We hope this campaign educates and empowers all Americans to speak out against antisemitism when they see it, either online or in their communities, and #StandUpToJewishHate.”

People can #StandUpToJewishHate in a number of ways:

1. Post and share 🟦 – an emoji already available on most smartphones – as a hashtag across social media alongside a message of support for the Jewish community and commitment to stand up to Jewish hate.
2. Activate your network by making them aware of the #StandUpToJewishHate campaign and how they can use 🟦 as a powerful symbol of solidarity with the Jewish community.
3. Tell your story to followers on social media, describing an instance where you’ve either encountered antisemitism and how it affected you or witnessed someone standing up against hatred towards Jews.
4. Visit StandUpToJewishHate.org and subscribe to the Foundation’s ”From the Command Center” e-newsletter to keep up to date on how antisemitism is spreading online, learn ways to identify and report it, and find helpful tools and resources around antisemitism.
5. Follow the #StandUpToJewishHate campaign at @StandUpToJewishHate on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to keep up-to-date with 🟦 and learn more about antisemitism.
6. Report antisemitism immediately when you see it, and if it is an emergency, dial 911. You can learn more about how best to report antisemitism by visiting StandUpToJewishHate.org.

FCAS partnered with creative agency Wunderman Thompson, media agency Mindshare (including their content unit Content+), PR agency Weber Shandwick, and influencer agency Noun for #StandUpToJewishHate.

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About The Foundation to Combat Antisemitism

Robert K. Kraft founded the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism in 2019 to help address the rising hate against Jews in the United States and the existential threat it poses to Jewish people. The Foundation is focused on winning the hearts and minds of non-Jews through powerful, positive messaging and partnerships, motivating and equipping them to be defenders and upstanders for Jews as they continue to face antisemitism. FCAS’ work includes understanding and responding to antisemitic messages and hate speech posted online and sharing the story of the Jewish people and the threats they face today to drive awareness and solidarity amongst all audiences, especially non-Jews.

Different from historical strategies to fight antisemitism, The Foundation and Kraft Family use innovative approaches to analyze and respond to the new reality of antisemitism and hate against Jewish people. The Foundation’s key areas of focus include: raising awareness of antisemitism, monitoring and analyzing trends in antisemitism and hate on social media, engaging individuals to build familiarity, empathy and understanding toward Jews, and celebrating Jewish identity.

Media Contact

Sherman Fabes: sfabes@webershandwick.com
Anisha Chakrabarti: anishac@fcas.org

[1]  “Jewish Americans in 2020,” Pew Research Center, May 21, 2021, https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2021/05/11/the-size-of-the-u-s-jewish-population/

[2]  “2020 FBI Hate Crimes Statistics,” The United States Department of Justice, February 21, 2023, https://www.justice.gov/crs/highlights/2020-hate-crimes-statistics

[3]  “Wunderman Thompson Bespoke SONAR Quantitative Study,” March 2022

[4] “Antisemitic Attitudes in America: Topline Findings,” Anti-Defamation League, January 12, 2023, https://www.adl.org/resources/report/antisemitic-attitudes-america-topline-findings

[5]  “Command Center,” The Foundation to Combat Antisemitism, 2022

[6] “The State of Antisemitism in America 2022: AJC’s Survey of American Jews,” American Jewish Committee, 2022, https://www.ajc.org/AntisemitismReport2022/AmericanJews

Program designed for non-investment professionals aims to promote continuing education and develop knowledge of key investment concepts across the workforce

New York, 14 February 2023—CFA Institute, the global association of investment professionals, has launched a new edition of its CFA Institute Investment Foundations® Certificate (“Investment Foundations Certificate”), a self-paced online certificate-level program that provides the global workforce with a clear understanding of how the global investment industry works.

The Investment Foundations Certificate is designed for non-investment professionals who work or seek to work in marketing, communications, sales, HR, IT, legal and compliance roles at investment organizations, such as firms in asset management, private equity, real estate, or venture capital.

The Investment Foundations Certificate covers foundational concepts about the investment industry, including its purpose, structure, key functions, roles and responsibilities, commonly used vocabulary, investment types, ethical considerations, financial regulation, and more. It also enables professionals, or those aspiring to get a job in the industry, with an ability to think critically, ask the right questions, and ultimately open doors to roles in the industry.

The major benefits of the Investment Foundations Certificate for participants:

• Job seekers without a finance background, as well as undergraduate students, who aspire to work in the industry will learn the foundational components, increasing their financial literacy and skillset.
• Learners who pass the assessments will be issued with a digital certificate and badge, which can be used to demonstrate knowledge and understanding on resumes/CVs and social-media career profile platforms.
• Learners for whom English is a second language may find the Investment Foundations Certificate helpful in mastering core investment industry concepts in English.

Margaret Franklin, CFA, President and CEO, CFA Institute, comments:

“Our vision for CFA Institute is to be where the investment industry comes to skill, upskill, and reskill, which is why we are so excited to bring this new version of the Investment Foundations Certificate to the market. The program will enable participants to communicate more effectively, apply critical thinking to their work, and collaborate more effectively with colleagues in investment teams based on shared knowledge. Employers are now seeking a broader skillset amongst their workforce, and the Investment Foundations Certificate can offer the foundational content that individuals will need, whether already in the industry, or working towards their first role.”

What does the course of study involve?

• Through 60-90 hours of online study over 12 months, the Investment Foundations Certificate provides learners with the essential investment industry concepts in a low-stakes study environment.
• New content on Decentralized Finance, Financial Technology, ESG Investing, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Practice, draws on CFA Institute research, policy, and standards to inform the materials.

Certificate Experience

The Investment Foundations Certificate is refreshed with entirely new topics, course structure and an optimized learning experience. It is made up of six self-paced interactive courses, each delivered through modules that include interactive text graphs, images, video, discussion prompts, and assessments to deliver a compact, modern, and highly accessible learning environment.

The course topics are:

• Course 1: Industry Overview and Structure
• Course 2: Types and Functioning of Markets
• Course 3: Investment Instruments
• Course 4: Investment Inputs and Tools
• Course 5: Serving Clients Needs
• Course 6: Serving the Greater Good

For the full Investment Foundations Certificate details, visit: https://investmentfoundations.cfainstitute.org/

Leading organizations are already accessing the Investment Foundations Certificate to complement organizational learning agendas designed to help people work more effectively with global colleagues through a common industry understanding. Organizations that will be offering access to the Investment Foundations Certificate learning materials to their teams following today’s launch include State Street Global Advisers.

Lori Heinel, CFA, Global Chief Investment Officer, State Street Global Advisors, comments:

“Investing in the financial literacy of State Street Global Advisors’ employees through the CFA Institute Investment Foundations Certificate provides long-term benefits for both the individual and the organization, creating a workforce more equipped to make informed decisions, help clients and drive growth for the company.”

For further information, please contact pr@cfainstitute.org.

Notes to Editors

• The Investment Foundations Certificate registration is priced at is US$350. From the point of registration into the program, learners have 12 months to complete all six courses–including all course assessments and the end-of-certificate assessment. All assessments take place within the learning platform.
• The end-of-certificate assessment comprises 100 multiple choice questions over a maximum test time of 140 minutes. The final assessment will be available to learners starting 15 March 2023. Participants who successfully complete all six courses and the end-of-certificate assessment will receive a digital certificate and a digital badge.
• A free Investment Foundations Certificate demonstration, via access to the Decentralized Finance material in Course 2, Module 2, Lesson 5, is available here: What is Decentralized Finance (DeFi)?
• The Investment Foundations Certificate is not an academic degree/diploma or equivalent and does not in itself allow for progress to higher-level academic studies in any education system.

About CFA Institute

CFA Institute is the global association of investment professionals that sets the standard for professional excellence and credentials. The organization is a champion of ethical behavior in investment markets and a respected source of knowledge in the global financial community. Our aim is to create an environment where investors’ interests come first, markets function at their best, and economies grow. There are more than 190,000 CFA charterholders worldwide in 160 markets. CFA Institute has nine offices worldwide and 160 local societies. For more information, visit www.cfainstitute.org or follow us on Linkedin and Twitter at @CFAInstitute

Media Contact

For further information, please contact pr@cfainstitute.org

• Students are changing the way they live due to concerns about the climate crisis – research reveals top four behavior changes students are making
• 61% of students report climate change is having a significant impact on their lives today
• More than 72% of students believe the promises made at COP won’t be kept

DENVER, October 26, 2022: With COP27 on the horizon, recent research has revealed the need for continuing education on key issues regarding sustainability, and a deep skepticism from students about government and businesses commitment to addressing climate issues.

The study found 61% of students reported climate change is having a significant or very significant impact on their life today. Additionally, two thirds (66%) of US students surveyed recognized the importance of Carbon Literacy, and many are changing the way they live their lives to help address the climate crisis.

But despite students and younger professionals being a driving, vocal force in addressing climate change, the study finds there is still a need for continuing climate change education.  Specifically:

• Better definition of terms – While we use terms like carbon sink and carbon footprint, there is lack of agreement on the definition. For example, 40% of students don’t know what carbon footprint is.
• The debate over nuclear energy as a clean energy source continues, with 25% of students identifying nuclear as a clean energy source. Men are almost twice as likely to identify nuclear power as clean than women.
• Social media is enormous power in climate information and misinformation. The study found the three most popular channels for students to get news on the environment and sustainability are YouTube (53%), TikTok (49%), and Instagram (41%). This reinforces the importance of fighting climate misinformation on these platforms.

The research was commissioned by Yugo – the first global student housing operator created to enhance students’ experiences throughout and beyond university life – as part of a global research project studying over 6,000 students across the UK, Ireland, Germany, Spain, Australia and the US. More than 1,000 students were polled in the US.

The study has shown just how important long term education programs are for creating further awareness of the sustainability challenges we face and how behavior change can tackle them – something that Yugo’s pillar – YugoEco has been developed to support.

Encouragingly, students are playing their part in helping to combat the world’s environmental challenges. The top four behavior changes cited due to concerns about the environment were:

1. Buying fewer disposable products (38%)
2. Actively trying to reduce energy use (35%) although women are 10% more likely to turn off lights than men.
3. Travelling using more environmentally friendly means (30%), with 12% more men than women saying they travel green
4. Deliberately purchasing from sustainable companies (25%)

Students are expressing their concerns in a number of ways, with 10% of students signing petitions and more than 890,000 US students taking part in a demonstration. Women are twice as likely as men to express their concerns via petition.

Students are skeptical and demand action

With COP27 just weeks away, students are very skeptical about government and business driving progress against climate change. More than 72% of students believe the promises made at the recent COP26 won’t be kept. The two most popular reasons why were because politicians lie (34%), and companies put profit over the environment (31%). Interestingly, women are 8% more likely to be skeptical of companies which means they will need to do more to convince them that efforts are not greenwashing.

Students say companies have a duty to address climate crisis. Encouragingly, management students are slightly more likely than their peers to believe this (66% vs 63%).

When it comes to making a difference, Apple wins again, with 22% of students indicating it is most active in fighting the climate crisis. But students maintain their skepticism, with 28% of students believing no company is doing enough.

Helen Strachan, Sustainability Specialist at Yugo, said: “There is often a misunderstood assumption that students have a homogeneous view on the environment and sustainability, but this research presents a far more complex picture. There are huge differences of opinion and knowledge when it comes to some of the biggest challenges the planet is facing, which is understandable given the vast amount of information out there on what is one of the most multifaceted issues of our time.  This study shows the need for further understanding of these critical issues.

“It’s uplifting to know that students are changing their behavior. As companies operating in the field of higher education, we have a duty to support students to live the most sustainable lives they can, which is why sustainability plays a key role in our holistic living program.”

As part of its commitment to sustainability, Yugo has partnered with The Carbon Literacy Project and is officially a Bronze Level Carbon Literate Organization.   The next objective is to reach Silver Level Carbon Literate Organization status to ensure more employees have the knowledge needed to reduce their own and Yugo’s carbon emissions.

Emma Richards, Head of Project Development, The Carbon Literacy Project said: “Carbon Literacy is an essential skill, vital to every workplace, community, and place of study. This research only demonstrates this further. Carbon Literacy is the foundational knowledge – it gives everyone the base level of understanding on climate change needed to drive positive action. However, Carbon Literacy is only the first step. The actions taken and pledged by learners as part of their Carbon Literacy have an immediate impact within their organization, however it is the maintenance of these and further actions, supported by Carbon Literate organizational culture, that reaps the greatest rewards for both participants and their organizations.  By becoming a Bronze accredited Carbon Literate Organization, Yugo has demonstrated its commitment to driving genuine low carbon action in their own organization and among the students they serve.”

Yugo’s unique approach

Yugo also empowers its students to grow personally through collaborative events and projects under the Live Your Best Life program – a holistic living experience developed from the Yugo research of thousands of students worldwide. This program supports students through three pillars based on sustainability – YugoEco, education – YuPro, personal and professional development – YuGrow, to deliver on their needs and expectations.

• YugoEco sees Yugo coming together with students to create better living spaces and a better planet through several initiatives. These include low energy usage programs on the importance of living more sustainable lives for students, and global partnerships with like-minded businesses for events, education and student experiences.
• YuPro is all about empowering young people beyond higher education and to help prepare them for their careers and their professional development. Yugo is also offering training sessions in areas such as career advice, real life experience, coaching and empowerment.
• YuGrow encourages Yugo students to shine by supporting their personal journey through events and activities in Yugo spaces, including student podcasts, diversity events and global student networking opportunities. Yugo has pledged to provide students with the most sustainably sourced chair and mattress – these were key findings from Yugo research as critical to their life to support both their physical environment and their emotional needs.

-ENDS-

About Yugo
Yugo is the first global student housing brand and operator created to enhance students’ overall experiences throughout and beyond college life. Yugo offers a truly differentiated living experience that is environmentally and socially conscious, emotionally supportive, and safe. Yugo is the operator of over 110 student living spaces located in nine countries with over 40,000 student beds in over 70 of the top cities in the world for higher education.

For further information please visit: www.Yugo.com

Contact:
Mark McClennan or McKayla Norris
C+C for Yugo
yugo@cplusc.com

September 12, 2022 – Insomnia Cookies, the beloved cult brand known for serving warm cookies, ice cream, and more sweets all day and late into the night, is welcoming students across the country back to college by throwing the largest combined PJ Party this nation has ever seen. On Tuesday, September 20, Insomniacs living near each of Insomnia’s 225+ bakeries nationwide are invited to head over to their local store dressed in their best PJs for the annual party, which will begin at 9 p.m. local time and go late into the night.

Every Insomniac who shows up to the party wearing their PJs will receive 1 free classic cookie, no purchase necessary. In addition to serving community members some seriously tasty treats, the epic event will be baked full of Insomnia’s most delicious deals of the year, with each store offering giveaways, exclusive merch, and other sweet surprises.

Sweetening up the occasion even further, Insomnia will be dropping an exclusive Deluxe Filled Ft. Sour Patch Kids® cookie and Big Dipper Ft. Sour Patch Kids® Bitz the night of the party, which will be available for a very limited time only. The former is a warm sugar cookie filled with a gooey raspberry SOUR PATCH KIDS® center, topped with SOUR PATCH KIDS® Bitz and the latter features four classic sugar cookies with a sweet side of buttercream icing, topped with SOUR PATCH KIDS® Bitz. It’s a candy-cookie dreamland.

Founded on a university campus, Insomnia is known for serving their signature treats late into the night—with most stores open for pick-up and delivery until 1 a.m. or later—making it the ultimate college hot-spot. Whether students are studying late, retiring from a night out, or simply craving something sweet, Insomnia is always there for them with a warm, delicious cookie waiting. Find your closest Insomnia Cookies location here: https://insomniacookies.com/locations.

Download Insomnia Cookies images here.

-Insomnia Cookies-

About Insomnia Cookies
Insomnia Cookies is a rapidly expanding late-night bakery concept headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. Founded in a University of Pennsylvania dorm room by then-student Seth Berkowitz, Insomnia Cookies has been feeding the insatiable hunger of loyal Insomniacs since 2003. Today, with more than 225 locations nationwide, Insomnia Cookies offers a wide variety of delicious cookies, ice cream, and other sweet treats in-store, for local delivery, and nationwide shipping. Details about Insomnia’s menu, delivery, and nationwide shipping options can be found here (late-night delivery until 1 a.m. or later). To place an order or learn more about Insomnia Cookies, visit www.InsomniaCookies.com. Keep up-to-date on the latest cookie news and grand opening deals by following Insomnia Cookies on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

Media Contact: 
Alexa Royle
215-790-4371
aroyle@tierneyagency.com

Living Off-Campus? Xfinity Offers Exclusive Deals for Students, Unlimited Internet, and up to $200 Visa Gift Card

Also Learn if You Qualify to Have Your Bill Completely Covered by the Affordable Connectivity Program!

PHILADELPHIA – September 8, 2022 – While your college years may be some of the most memorable of your life, they can also be some of the most challenging. This may be the first time you’re living on your own – paying for your own food, housing, and Internet. While we can’t help with the rent, Xfinity Internet has exclusive offers for students living off campus with up to $200 back!

Xfinity Internet offers three tiers of service to help you get through those all-nighters. Whether you are looking to stay connected to family, share bandwidth with roommates, or spend the weekend gaming, we have a plan for you. Students can receive up to $200 back, plus all three tiers offer unlimited data and a free Flex 4K streaming TV box with a voice remote to navigate your favorite streaming apps.  And there are no term contracts required.

Signing up is easy. Visit https://www.xfinity.com/student or scan the QR code below to view the exclusive student offers in your area. You can also sign up by calling 1-800-XFINITY (1-800-934-6489) or by visiting one of our stores.

While you’re getting a new Internet provider, it may also be a good time to switch your wireless plan. Switching to Xfinity Mobile is easy! Bring your phone, and only pay for the data you need with plans starting at $15 a month. Need more data? Switching between plans is simple and you can even change your plan in the middle of your billing cycle. It’s easy with no contract and online activation.

You also may qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides a monthly credit of up to $30 toward your Internet bill. To qualify, you must meet the program’s eligibility criteria which can be found here. You may qualify if the entire household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level (for example, $55,500/year for a family of four, $27,180/year for an individual) or if you receive assistance through certain government programs, including if you received a Federal Pell Grant during the current school year.

Click here to learn more about Comcast’s Internet service offerings that are fully covered by the ACP benefit.

About Comcast Corporation 
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on connectivity, aggregation, and streaming with 57 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.

Contact:
Camillia Travia, Comcast
(office) 215-286-7554
Camillia_Travia@Comcast.com

As acute stress related to testing impacts a majority of Gen Z students, Quizlet coins ‘examiety’ in collaboration with The Jed Foundation to address exam-related anxiety

SAN FRANCISCO – August 30, 2022 – A new U.S. survey examining Gen Z attitudes on test-taking and mental health shows that students consistently struggle with feelings of anxiety tied to tests and exams. In fact, 86% of respondents indicated they have experienced exam anxiety, with 76% saying they have experienced it in the past six months. To address the relatable stress students feel around test-taking, global learning platform Quizlet has coined the term ‘examiety’ to describe the physical and emotional reactions that interfere with a student’s ability to perform well on exams.

Quizlet commissioned a survey of more than 1,000 U.S. Gen Z students to gain further insight on the impact of anxiety, studying, and learning in a post-pandemic world. Key takeaways include:

• Examiety negatively affects other aspects of the school experience: 68% of students admit that the apprehension and anxiousness that comes with test taking negatively affects the social aspect of their school lives. Gen Z students feel that test anxiety leads to poor exam performance (29%), lower self-confidence (28%), and a lower tendency to ask teachers for help (12%).
• Students feel exam stress negatively impacts the future: Nearly half of respondents (42%) consistently worry that test anxiety will negatively impact their academic future.
• Boosting accessibility to mental health resources during exams is vital to academic success: Only 24% of respondents said they seek help from school counselors when they are feeling stress related to tests and studying. What’s more, 43% of Gen Z students never reach out to their community, classmates, or family to talk about school related stress and mental health.            

“Exam anxiety is real, especially having moved from high school to college with virtual learning and having to re-adjust to the experience of taking exams in person,” said Alexandra Berardelli, a sophomore at College of the Holy Cross. “Even when I’ve prepared and studied countless hours, my heart still beats out of my chest when entering the exam room. While I know I’m not alone in feeling this way, it’s not something I talk about with my friends or seek help to manage.”

To provide meaningful resources for students to address examiety, Quizlet and The Jed Foundation, a non-profit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for teens and young adults, have developed the Examiety Resource Guide. This resource guide was crafted with input from trained clinicians and offers tips, insights and guidance to equip students with information to address and manage their exam-related anxiety.

“Giving a name to a feeling of anxiety can often help to take the power from it and enable healthy ways to address it,” said Dr. Laura Erickson-Scroth, Chief Medical Officer, The Jed Foundation. “We are seeing an overwhelming amount of students dealing with the stress of the past two years, compounded with the ongoing pressures of today’s education landscape. Through listening to Gen Z, we’ve learned the best way to support is to give them tools and resources to prioritize their mental health. In this case, it’s helping to identify triggers and manage the common and understandable anxiety associated with one aspect of the school experience.”

When it comes to the top stressors for students, schoolwork has a significant impact on their mental health. A prior survey commissioned by Quizlet reported nearly half of students found  final exams and end-of-semester grades as top sources of stress impacting their mental wellbeing, indicating a continued need for tools like Quizlet that facilitate personalized learning and help students confidently navigate their learning journey.

“As students across the country head back to school both in-person and online, we understand they are juggling an increasingly uncertain world, new pressures and competing priorities,” said Matt Glotzbach, Chief Executive Officer, Quizlet. “Quizlet helps students reach their full potential and our research shows that examiety is a major barrier preventing students from accomplishing their goals. By shining a light on examiety and providing a resource for students to better manage this specific source of anxiety, our aim is to support students’ mental health and wellbeing, and ultimately set them up to learn more efficiently and effectively.”

The survey exploring exam anxiety was fielded in July and August 2022, with a sample of 1,000 U.S. students between the ages of 18-25. For more information, please contact QuizletUS@allisonpr.com.

About Quizlet
Quizlet is a global learning platform that provides engaging study tools to help people practice and master whatever they are learning. Every month, over 60 million students, teachers and everyday people use Quizlet to study any subject imaginable for school, work or as part of their personal interests — including 2 in 3 high school students and 1 in 2 college students in the US. Combining cognitive science and machine learning, Quizlet guides students through adaptive study activities to confidently reach their learning goals. The company offers a combination of free and paid subscriptions for both students and teachers that enable further customization. Quizlet is headquartered in San Francisco, California and is backed by Icon Ventures, Union Square Ventures, Costanoa Ventures and General Atlantic. For more information, please visit www.quizlet.com.

About JED
JED is a nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for our nation’s teens and young adults. JED partners with high schools and colleges to strengthen their mental health, substance misuse, and suicide prevention programs and systems. The organization equips teens and young adults with the skills and knowledge to help themselves and each other. JED encourages community awareness, understanding, and action for young adult mental health.

Connect with JED:  Email | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn  | Pinterest | TikTok

Media Contacts
Aleah Feuerborn
quizlet@allisonpr.com

Justin Barbo
Director, Public Relations, The Jed Foundation
justin@jedfoundation.org
914-844-4611