I've always wanted to talk a bit on this podcast about how asking for help should never be stigmatized. About how, in the realm of higher education in particular, I think, there's this underlying notion that if you can't hack it alone, you shouldn't be here. After all, YOU'RE the one doing the readings, YOU'RE the one submitting the assignment, YOU'RE the one getting the grade. And while technically those things are true, it missed the fundamental fact that we're social beings and social learners. Today on the pod I was thrilled to have Nicci on to talk about UA THINKTANK. What is THINK TANK? To just say "it's a tutoring service" is kind of like saying a space ship is just a metal tube. I'm just going to read to you how they describe the division on the website: THINK TANK is dedicated to empowering UA students by providing a positive environment where they can master the skills needed to become successful lifelong learners. By offering a wide range of programs and services, THINK TANK encourages students to apply and refine transferable skills that will sustain them throughout their academic and professional lives. Strengthened by partnerships, application of research, and use of technology, THINK TANK creates diverse learning environments that promote academic and personal exploration, collaboration, and critical thinking. Now, personally, I wish I'd both had and known about something like THINKTANK when I was in school. Some of the classes that I struggled with maybe wouldn't have been such incredible sources of anxiety and eventual resentment. So, as the east coast battens down the hatches for what looks like another possibly tremendous winter storm and the folks here with me in Arizona are opening their windows and sitting on their porches... in January..., enjoy episode 32: a thoroughly enjoyable conversation with whom I've come to think of as the heart of THINK TANK, Nicci Ainuu. --- (Full transcript coming soon!)