Q&A: ideas to turn information into inspiration



	VOLUME 2 ISSUE 22

Why are the hottest days of summer called "the dog days"?

A. More hot dogs are sold at this time of year than any other.
B. The answer lies in the stars.
C. Heat and humidity make peoples' feet – often called "dogs" – uncomfortable.
D. People take a cue from dogs – moving lazily and taking frequent naps.

Click here to submit your answer.

2 August 1934 – With the death of German President Paul von Hindenburg, Chancellor Adolf Hitler becomes absolute dictator of Germany under the title of Führer, or "Leader."

8 August 1914 – After Sir Ernest Henry Shackleton receives one-word telegram from Admiralty ("Proceed"), Endurance departs Plymouth for the Antarctic exploration.

12 August 1981 – IBM introduces the Personal Computer (PC).

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

Students and teachers save up to 80% on software!

Off to school? Make way for change.

This season finds more of us poised for significant life changes than at any other time of the year. If you're anticipating your departure for college, you may be feeling exhilarated... and anxious. CollegeBoard.com says heading off "to explore a new place, make new friends, learn new things, and set your own priorities" means many big changes coming at you quickly — and that can cause big stress. Their "College Survival Tips" include strategies to help you handle these challenges. Realistic expectations can also help you manage your stress. In College Outlook's "Getting Real about College Life", Annie Fox, M.Ed., says, "Want to avoid big time stress in college? Stay on top of your coursework. You'll need to because there's going to be a lot of it. Expect that. Expect also that your mom and dad won't be checking to see if your homework's done."

She also offers solutions for maintaining your balance in new social situations and with roommates and friends. Anne Veigle, writing for The Washington Times, says students may find that "the freedom they longed for in high school sometimes brings moments of loneliness." In "Leaving Home 101", she recommends quickly getting involved in school activities and taking advantage of university programs aimed at making the adjustment a smooth one for both students and parents. Fox says, "Bottom line, college is filled with opportunities. If you make good choices, you'll feel good about who you are, gain the respect of others, have a great time, get a great education, and you'll grow up in the process. All of that's included in your college tuition. What a deal!"

Pack the Essentials Part 1: Basic Writing Tools

Some things stand the test of time, and the writing advice by William Strunk is one of those classics. Following the matter-of-fact recommendations he developed decades ago will improve everything you write — from school research papers, reports and essays to creative pieces or business correspondence and even love letters. For "eleven commandments of writing" you should take with you to school, work and beyond, click here.

Secrets of a Successful Online Search

Pack the Essentials Part 2: Foolproof Online Search Techniques

When the pressure's on, even experienced Internet researchers can fumble — wasting time with unproductive searches or failing to evaluate the information we find. Luckily for us, State University of New York at Albany offers wonderful resources designed to keep online searches on track. Click here for SUNY's great, concise checklist of Internet research tips that should be part of everyone's bag of online search tricks.

Ask Nancy

Dear Nancy,

I know I'm supposed to cite my sources when I write a paper, but I'm not always sure when I need to and when I don't need to. What are the rules about this?

Studious in St. Louis

Click here for Nancy's response.