Monthly Archives: December 2014

NEEBO COLLEGE TEXTBOOK SAVINGS TIP: SELL EARLY, BUY EARLY AND SAVE BIG

Sell Fall Semester Textbooks To Pay For Spring Textbooks – Chance To Double Your Payment for Fall Textbooks

Lincoln, NE – December 10, 2014 – Nebraska Book Company|Neebo (OTC Pink: NEEB), a leading operator of more than 200 college bookstores nationwide and one of the largest distributors in the textbook wholesale industry supporting more than 2,000 college related stores, is sharing cost-saving tips to help college students manage one of their most worrisome college expenses: textbooks. The deceptively simple tip from Neebo is to sell Fall semester textbooks as close to the end of the semester as possible to capture top buy-back rates and then use those book sales proceeds to purchase Spring semester textbooks early before inventories diminish and costs rise. To give students further incentive to sell Fall books early, Neebo is launching a promotion that gives students an opportunity to double the price paid for a book at the time of sale. Neebo also offers textbook buy-back online, combining convenience, service and highly competitive pricing.

“College students today are more worried about textbook costs than ever before,” says Bill Zeuch, senior vice president of merchandising, marketing & e-commerce for Neebo. “Our company’s founding premise was to save college students money on textbooks so we are sharing tips and strategies to reduce both textbook costs and the related stress of affording required college textbooks.”

Students shopping at a Neebo store can compare the Neebo purchase quote to other providers and, if they find a better offer for the exact same textbook, Neebo will match the price. As added incentive, students selling their Fall textbooks can participate in a special text-based in-store promotion for the chance to double the amount that Neebo will pay for their textbook.

With the premium price payout from Neebo for Fall textbooks, students have a great opportunity to immediately apply those funds to their Spring textbooks while inventory is at its highest and prices are at their lowest. Students who decide to rent their Spring textbooks will enjoy a 20% discount if they act before December 21, 2014.

Neebo is committed to saving students money on their required textbooks and maintains a year-round Best Price Promise policy that assures students receive the best available market price for any textbook in-store.

About Nebraska Book Company|Neebo
Nebraska Book Company Inc. was founded 100 years ago with a store near the University of Nebraska Lincoln campus. The company pioneered used textbook distribution and expanded to campuses across the country and is today a leader in solutions for the college store marketplace supporting more than 2,000 college-related retail stores. It is now owned by Neebo, Inc., an online retailer and operator of more than 200 college stores across the nation. Neebo provides millions of students, parents, faculty, fans and alumni with the most complete selection of rental, used and new textbooks, as well as college-branded apparel, gear and accessories. Neebo is the complete college outfitter, dedicated to making college—one of life’s best experiences—even better. For more information, on Nebraska Book Company, visit www.nebook.com. For more information on Neebo, visit http://www.neebo.com.

Media Contact
Bill Bonner
630-297-9773
bill@bonnerimpr.com

Draper University’s Tim Draper Hosts YouNoodle Live Featuring Student Entrepreneurs From Around The World

Conducted entirely online, YouNoodle’s virtual ‘demo day’ featuring Tim Draper encourages global sourcing of innovation and investment in the collegiate startup ecosystem.

Draper University (http://draperuniversity.com/) , an entrepreneurship program for the world’s most innovative and creative people, is partnering with YouNoodle (https://www.younoodle.com/), a startup competition platform, for the next YouNoodle Live. Draper University’s founder, Tim Draper, will be on hand to evaluate and give feedback to students from around the world that will have the chance to present their ideas during the virtual event, which will be MCed by Torsten Kolind, Co-Founder and CEO of YouNoodle. As part of the ongoing YouNoodle 1K campaign, YouNoodle Live gives startups from YouNoodle 1K the opportunity to pitch virtually to technology luminaries. The event will take place on December 9th at 9 AM PT and registration is open now at www.younoodle.com/live.

“As a vocal advocate for young entrepreneurs I am very excited to be a part of YouNoodle Live,” said Tim. “We are constantly recruiting young founders for Draper University and are proud to have one of the best networks for innovators looking to launch their ideas into the marketplace. This is a great opportunity for us to see what is out there in terms of new and unique ideas.”

“Our first YouNoodle Live was a great success and exposed the presenting startups to a global network of venture capitalists, corporate innovation managers, and seasoned entrepreneurs,” said Torsten. “Draper University and Tim Draper add a level of credibility that is unprecedented. The presenting startups will benefit not only from the global online exposure, but also Tim’s years of knowledge evaluating and educating young entrepreneurs.”

YouNoodle 1K focuses on the top 1,000 entrepreneurs and ideas selected from over 28,000 startups coming through more than 400 YouNoodle-driven startup competitions worldwide in the past 12 months. It uses judging and evaluation data from competitions to paint a picture of the global startup ecosystem. The program offers members in the YouNoodle 1K network opportunities to gain access to experts, investors and business development opportunities from all over the world.

About Draper University
Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Draper University is the brainchild of venture capitalist Tim Draper, and co-founder of Draper Fisher Jurvetson Venture Fund. Draper University is an innovative program for entrepreneurs, offering both residential entrepreneurship programs and an online program for the brightest entrepreneurs from around the world. Students experience Silicon Valley via a cutting edge, hands on curriculum taught by the most successful entrepreneurs in the Valley. For more information about the program, visit www.draperuniversity.com or contact us info@draperuniversity.com.

About YouNoodle
YouNoodle (www.younoodle.com) is a data-driven startup recruitment engine and customized end-to-end platform for the creation, management, and judging of startup competitions. Top universities, corporations, accelerators, as well as governments use YouNoodle’s tools to host challenges and judging processes, recruit high-potential entrepreneurs, and grow their startup ecosystems. Having facilitated more than 400 international competitions across 100 countries, YouNoodle has created a global talent network of 50,000 startups and has become a premier resource for expanding access to the best ideas and brightest talent across the globe. Based in Silicon Valley with a team comprised of 10 different nationalities who speak 18 different languages, YouNoodle creates a local and global opportunity network that expands the borders of the startup landscape and equalizes opportunities for entrepreneurs worldwide.

Media Contact
Michael Volpatt
Michael@larkinvolpatt.com
(415) 994-8864

NATIONAL SURVEY REVEALS CONFLICTED MINDSET OF COLLEGE STUDENTS ABOUT ADHD PRESCRIPTION STIMULANT MISUSE, ABUSE AND DIVERSION

NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                          

November 2014

Contact: mediainquiries@cpamm.org

Survey Conducted by Harris Poll on behalf of the Coalition to Prevent ADHD Medication Misuse (CPAMM) to be Used to Inform Educational Efforts 

A recent survey conducted by Harris Poll on behalf of the newly-formed Coalition to Prevent Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Medication Misuse (CPAMM) finds that college students’ perceptions and attitudes towards the misuse, abuse and diversion of ADHD prescription stimulants are complex. The findings paint a portrait of students who recognize the risks of misuse, but understand why some students may choose to misuse, given the academic pressures in today’s college environment. CPAMM intends to use the findings to inform and develop educational campaigns to help prevent nonmedical use of ADHD prescription stimulants. The survey was conducted online between May 15 and June 11, 2014 among 2,056 US college students (full-time, 91%, part-time, 9%), defined as adults aged 18 to 24 enrolled and seeking a degree at a 4-year college or university and attending at least some in-person classes.[1]

Attitudes and perceptions about misuse, abuse and diversion

Based on the survey, college students consider taking ADHD prescription stimulant medications that were not prescribed to them to be unethical (75%), a form of cheating (when used for schoolwork) (59%), extremely/very harmful (73%) and a “big deal” (80%) if someone who doesn’t have ADHD uses prescription stimulants, with 65% likening the misuse of ADHD prescription stimulants to do schoolwork to athletes who use performance-enhancing drugs. However, almost one in four students (24%) do believe it is okay for someone who doesn’t have ADHD to use prescription stimulants for schoolwork, and 48% believe that students who misuse are just doing what they have to do to keep up with the pressures of college. In addition, 42% of students incorrectly believe that using ADHD prescription stimulants not prescribed to them is no more harmful than an energy drink or a strong cup of coffee.

Further, the majority of students believe the main drivers to start misusing ADHD prescription stimulants are a desire to get good grades (70%) and pressure to succeed (68%). Overall, 64% of students declare that they would “do anything to get an A,” and 29% admit they will do whatever it takes to succeed academically even if it requires breaking the rules.

“The survey shines a light on the stress permeating the lives of students on today’s college campuses. We want to communicate as a Coalition that there are better, healthier ways to cope,” says John MacPhee, Executive Director and CEO of The Jed Foundation, a CPAMM partner.

Another perception of note is that 75% of students believe at least some of their peers have used ADHD prescription stimulants not prescribed to them. Reported rates of actual nonmedical use vary, but a 2013 survey at one large public university indicated that 9.3 percent of college students reported nonmedical use of prescription stimulant medication in the past year.[2]

“The misconception that ‘everybody is doing it’ and that misusing will somehow guarantee better grades is something that CPAMM hopes to challenge by creating peer-to-peer interventions for use by college students,” says Ann Quinn-Zobeck, Senior Director of the BACCHUS Initiatives of NASPA, a CPAMM partner.

Groups that are more at risk to misuse

Two groups that stand out are members of Greek organizations (fraternities and sororities) and athletes (members of varsity, junior varsity, intramural and/or club teams). These groups are significantly more likely than their respective counterparts to say they are at least somewhat likely to use ADHD prescription stimulants in a way that is different from a doctor’s instructions (Greeks, 40%, non-Greeks, 23%, athletes, 36%, non-athletes, 21%). They are also more likely to believe that using ADHD prescription stimulants without a prescription can help students get better grades even if they don’t have ADHD – 52% of Greeks (versus 42% of non-Greeks) and 50% of athletes (versus 41% of non-athletes).

Where do college students believe their peers are getting ADHD prescription stimulants?

The survey reveals that 71% of students believe it is easy to obtain ADHD prescription stimulants without a prescription: 87% of students believe friends who have a prescription are the primary source for those who misuse, and about one in two (48%) also think an avenue to obtain them is pretending to have ADHD and getting a prescription from a health care professional. Of the 8% of students diagnosed with ADHD in the survey, more than a quarter (27%) feel it is acceptable for students with ADHD to share their prescription with a friend. Additionally, 46% of students who are diagnosed with ADHD and have a prescription stimulant feel at least a little pressure to share or sell their medication.[3]

“We recognize the role that students with ADHD may play, and are committed as a Coalition to instilling a greater sense of responsibility in students appropriately diagnosed with ADHD to not divert their supply and to help them feel empowered to say no when peers approach them for their medication,” says Ruth Hughes, Ph.D., Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), a CPAMM partner.

Dr. Julie Wood, Vice President for Health of the Public and Interprofessional Activities, American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), a CPAMM partner, agrees: “For students appropriately diagnosed with ADHD, the medicines may help. However, it is important for students with ADHD to recognize that distributing their medication to others is illegal and could be harmful, and for physicians to recognize their role in helping ensure this recognition.”

Students’ perception of university policies

Despite recognition of the consequences of misuse, and a belief by two in five students (40%) that misuse is a problem at their school, nearly three in five students (57%) believe that the administration and the professors at their school are unaware of the misuse of ADHD prescription stimulants on campus. Moreover, almost three in five college students (58%) feel that their school does not make it clear that they do not approve of ADHD prescription stimulant medication misuse.

“Many colleges and universities have a policy against ADHD prescription stimulant misuse, abuse and diversion, however as an association that represents more than 14,000 higher education professionals, it is imperative that we increase awareness of the seriousness of the issue for college administrators,” says Kevin Kruger, Ph.D., President of NASPA, Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education, a CPAMM partner.

Next steps for the Coalition to Prevent ADHD Medication Misuse (CPAMM)

“As the first national survey to evaluate the mindset of students surrounding ADHD prescription medication misuse, we find this research to be very insightful and informative,” says Gwen Fisher, Senior Director of Corporate Communications, Shire, a CPAMM partner. “As a Coalition, we strive to be a trusted source of information. Understanding the attitudes, motivation, perceptions and misperceptions of college students around the issue is crucial to helping prevent nonmedical use – the primary mission of CPAMM. The data actually points to additional areas for further exploration.”

Throughout 2014-2015, CPAMM plans to survey medical professionals to identify primary-care based strategies to help reduce ADHD medication misuse, abuse and diversion. In addition, the Coalition will conduct focus groups among college students and administrators to try to gain a better understanding of how the college environment affects the issue and what kind of programmatic efforts might be most effective. Also, the Coalition will evaluate potential partnerships with other organizations, associations and programs that reach college students. Ultimately, CPAMM intends to develop peer-to-peer interventions for use by college students to help prevent the nonmedical use of ADHD stimulant medications. For more information regarding CPAMM or the “College Students and the Misuse, Abuse and Diversion of ADHD Prescription Stimulant Medications” survey, visit CPAMM.org. Join the conversation online using #CPAMMorg.

 

About the Coalition to Prevent ADHD Medication Misuse (CPAMM)

The Coalition to Prevent ADHD Medication Misuse (CPAMM) strives to be a trusted source of information on the issue of ADHD prescription medication misuse, abuse and diversion – with a primary focus on college students. CPAMM will also use its knowledge to make a difference and prevent the nonmedical use of these medications. Shire is the sole funder of CPAMM. Other partner organizations do not provide financial contributions to CPAMM. On a case-by-case basis, partners may be compensated to execute research and programming proposals for expenses incurred, as approved by the Coalition. All partners, including Shire, voluntarily contribute to the Coalition through their areas of expertise. For more information, visit www.CPAMM.org.

 

About the Survey Method

Harris Poll conducted the survey on behalf of the Coalition to Prevent ADHD Medication Misuse (CPAMM). The survey was administered online within the United States between May 15 and June 11, 2014, among 2,056 US college students (full-time, 91%, and part-time, 9%), defined as adults aged 18 to 24 enrolled and seeking a degree at a 4-year college or university and attending at least some in-person classes. Among that group, 164 were diagnosed with ADHD. Data are weighted where necessary by age within gender, race/ethnicity, region, and propensity to be online in order to bring them in line with their actual proportions in the population.

 

About The Harris Poll
Over the last 5 decades, Harris Polls have become media staples.  With comprehensive experience and precise technique in public opinion polling, along with a proven track record of uncovering consumers’ motivations and behaviors, The Harris Poll has gained strong brand recognition around the world. The Harris Poll offers a diverse portfolio of proprietary client solutions to transform relevant insights into actionable foresight for a wide range of industries including health care, technology, public affairs, energy, telecommunications, financial services, insurance, media, retail, restaurant, and consumer packaged goods. Contact us at ConsumerInsightsNAInfo@nielsen.com for more information.

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[1] Data are weighted where necessary by age within gender, race/ethnicity, region, and propensity to be online to bring them in line with their actual proportions in the population. For the purpose of the survey, misuse refers to any time the medicine is used in a way that is different from the doctor’s instructions and could include people who do not have a prescription for the medication but obtain it and use it, and people who have a prescription but do not use it as directed by their health care provider.

[2] Source: McCabe, S.E., West, B.T., Teter, C.J. & Boyd, C.J., Trends in Medical Use, Diversion, and Nonmedical Use of Prescription Medications among College Students from 2003 to 2013: Connecting the Dots, Addictive Behaviors (2014), doi: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2014.03.008

[3] *Caution: small base size (n=96); results should be interpreted as directional in nature.

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7 Tips to Fuel for Finals

By Lindsey Joe, RD

Finals are just around the corner, and clocking major study time before the end of the year can put added stress on your body as well as your mind. Exercise these seven tips to get the energy you need to ace finals.

1) Break the Fast for Brain Power — Research shows that our brains and bodies suffer without a morning meal to fuel us up. Be sure to enjoy some whole grains (like whole grain waffles or cereal and oatmeal) for long-lasting energy that will keep “hangry” feelings at bay. Then keep the good momentum going by aiming to refuel every three to four hours.

2) Don’t Skimp on Sleep — Despite the common practice of pulling an all-nighter after running out of time to study, it’s actually a better idea to go ahead and get some rest. Allowing your body to shut down and recharge for seven to nine hours a night will ensure a better mood and attention span for your finals ahead.

3) Hydrate for a Clear Head — Thirst, dizziness, sluggishness, even headache can be early signs of dehydration and highly unwanted the day of an exam. Be sure to stay hydrated and sip on something every so often that you can easily toss in your bag. Portable options like bottled water, fruitwater, or vitaminwater zero are great zero calorie options.

4) Veg Out (couch not included) — Certain veggies like kale, collards, cabbage, broccoli, turnip greens, swiss chard, spinach and salad may help improve your memory. Munch on that!

5) Be Berry Good — The pigments that give berries their bright color may also have memory boosting effects! The darker the berry (think blackberries, blueberries and cherries) the sweeter the “berry boosting” brain power.

6) Go from Omega to Alpha — Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for brain health and performance. Operate in high-def the day of finals by enjoying more foods with Omega-3 fatty acids including walnuts, ground flaxseed, and fatty fish (such as salmon or tuna).

7) Make a Motivating Mantra — Being in the right mindset is key to killing it during finals. Pick a powerful song lyric or compelling quote that ignites your inner nerd and encourages you to “bring it” on the day of an exam!

Lindsey Joe is a registered dietitian and weight management expert based in the Nashville area. She maintains her own blog, Handmade Healthy, and is a self-proclaimed foodie at heart. She also consults for food and beverage companies including The Coca-Cola Company.