2008 Woodie Awards
UTC grad publishes book of tips
Ashley Hopkins
Issue date: 12/2/04 Section: Culture
- Page 1 of 1
A May 2003 graduate of UTC has recently published a book filled with his advice on how to survive the college years.
James S. Parker said his lengthy college experience inspired him to make lists of dos and don'ts that might be helpful to other students, which eventually evolved into his book, "My College Tips."
"It's just something I consider myself an expert in, having gone down the wrong path so many times," Parker said.
Parker attended five different colleges and changed his major numerous times. He graduated last spring with a major in computer science and a minor in entrepreneurship after eight years in school with no semesters off.
"...After all that, I started to advise other students," Parker said.
Parker said that his friends would ask him questions about aspects of college life because he had been in school so long, and his friends joked that he should write a book about his college experiences.
Parker's book is filled with advice on everything from what to expect while transitioning from high school to college to tips on buying a practical car.
"I learned so much along the way from my mistakes, and I just want to help other people out," Parker said.
While some of the advice is humorous, Parker offers counseling on more serious aspects of college, too, such as landing an internship or job, getting along with your roommate and choosing a major.
Dr. Kittrell Rushing, head of the communication department, reviewed Parker's book before publication.
"I thought it was an interesting attempt to help incoming college students master the challenges and excitement of a major life change," Rushing said.
"My College Tips" is full of good advice and would be a great gift for those just out of high school, currently enrolled in college or on the verge of graduating, Rushing said.
Parker's book is available at the UTC bookstore and the Chattanooga State bookstore, or online at mycollegetips.com.
James S. Parker said his lengthy college experience inspired him to make lists of dos and don'ts that might be helpful to other students, which eventually evolved into his book, "My College Tips."
"It's just something I consider myself an expert in, having gone down the wrong path so many times," Parker said.
Parker attended five different colleges and changed his major numerous times. He graduated last spring with a major in computer science and a minor in entrepreneurship after eight years in school with no semesters off.
"...After all that, I started to advise other students," Parker said.
Parker said that his friends would ask him questions about aspects of college life because he had been in school so long, and his friends joked that he should write a book about his college experiences.
Parker's book is filled with advice on everything from what to expect while transitioning from high school to college to tips on buying a practical car.
"I learned so much along the way from my mistakes, and I just want to help other people out," Parker said.
While some of the advice is humorous, Parker offers counseling on more serious aspects of college, too, such as landing an internship or job, getting along with your roommate and choosing a major.
Dr. Kittrell Rushing, head of the communication department, reviewed Parker's book before publication.
"I thought it was an interesting attempt to help incoming college students master the challenges and excitement of a major life change," Rushing said.
"My College Tips" is full of good advice and would be a great gift for those just out of high school, currently enrolled in college or on the verge of graduating, Rushing said.
Parker's book is available at the UTC bookstore and the Chattanooga State bookstore, or online at mycollegetips.com.
