Why do they call it the dog days of August?

These punishingly hot summer days get their name from an ancient belief about the brightest star in the sky—not from dogs' tendency to laze around in the heat. For many, the “dog days,” evoke those summer days that are so devastatingly hot that even dogs would lie around on the asphalt, panting.

seaboard

a region bordering the sea; the coastline.

slate

North American

schedule; plan.

call an audible.

In American football, to call out a different play at the line of scrimmage just before the ball is put into play, typically in response to some action taken by the opposing team. (An "audible" is a play changed in this manner.) The quarterback called an audible after seeing how the defense had lined up.

Meal prepping

Meal prepping is the concept of preparing whole meals or dishes ahead of schedule. It's particularly popular amongst busy people because it can save a lot of time. Having pre-prepared meals on hand can also reduce portion size and help you reach your nutrition goals.

break the bank

informal

cost more than one can afford.

What is an Associate’s degree?

An Associate’s degree is an academic program taken at the undergraduate level (the first stage after secondary school). It aims to give students the basic technical and academic knowledge and transferable skills they need to go on to employment or further study in their chosen field.

What does it mean when they say room and board?

: lodging and food usually furnished for a set price or as part of wages.

underserved

adjective. In regard to health services, refers to populations which are disadvantaged because of ability to pay, ability to access care, ability to access comprehensive healthcare, or other disparities for reasons of race, religion, language group or social status.

A full ride scholarship

A full ride scholarship is an award that covers all expenses related with college. This includes tuition, books, fees, room and board, and possibly even living costs. The goal is to remove any need for additional financial aid.

hammer

informal

attack or criticize forcefully and relentlessly.