Teen College Education

University of California Ends Standardized Testing Requirement

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 05:23:00 +0000

If you hate taking standardized tests, then the latest news out of the University of California should be music to your ears. Last week, the UC system decided to end testing for admission across all undergraduate campuses.

One of the big reasons why the UCs are scrapping the standardized test requirements has to do with providing a fair opportunity to everyone applying. High school grades have proven to be a better way to assess students and do not require spending thousands of dollars on test preparation and fees.

Image by Wokandapix

Students first started having difficulty taking the SAT and ACT tests during COVID-19 lockdowns, driving many universities to search for alternatives. UC had already waved the standardized test requirements for this current year, so this change makes the policy permanent.

This means that UC colleges will rely on remaining application materials including personal statements, academic history aka grades and classes, extra curricular activities, awards, and anything else you might submit in the application. The schools will still accept test results, but will not consider them for admissions.

It is unclear if other universities will follow the lead of the University of California. Standardized testing has received greater scrutiny in the past few years as schools have placed a greater focus on inequality and discrimination.

Overall, this seems like a great change as it will remove another stress that high school students face and focus attention on everything that an applicant can bring to a college. The full story can be found here.

4 Ways to Pay for Your Degree Without Getting a Job

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 06:35:00 +0000

As if college itself wasn’t stressful enough, nothing can weigh on the mind like crushing loan debt. Having a job to alleviate some of that financial pressure would be nice, but when you’re an architecture student studying 30 hours a day, where will you find the time for a regular job?

Luckily, there are plenty of ways for you to earn some supplemental income while you’re contributing the majority of your time to your studies.

Selling Unused Clothes

This plan sounds quite tedious, and it can be if not executed properly. Sorting through your clothes is exceedingly mundane, even when it’s just to put them away during the laundry process.

And remember, you have to make time to study, so you can’t waste any of it separating old clothes from the rest. You need an efficient way to market the clothes you know you can get rid of, and that people would want to buy.

Image by Nikolay Frolochkin

Utilizing social media is an effective way to market your clothing, as well as set up and close sales. All it takes is a little legwork. Take a picture or two of the article of clothing and post that picture to a group in Facebook, direct message it to people you think would be interested in it, or post it on Instagram using the #ShopMyCloset hashtag.

And if you don’t have the time to sit down one afternoon and sort through all of your clothes, kill two birds with one stone. When you’re doing your laundry (your clothes have to be cleaned eventually), pay attention to what clothes are left sitting dormant in your closet and drawers.

More often than not, these are clothes that don’t fit you anymore, or that you’ve simply forgotten about. No matter the reason, they would be much more useful in the hands (or on the body) of a person who would actually wear them.

Volunteering for Scientific Studies

This is the method that is most likely to net you the highest amount of money in the shortest amount of time. Research institutions all over the country are constantly looking for test subjects to take part in experiments for new drugs, studying diseases and even sleep studies.

For as much as thousands of dollars at a time, you could offer your body and health in a variety of ways, such as battling the flu, lying down in bed or donating bodily fluids.

You can participate in experiments that allow doctors and medical students to understand how our bodies fight diseases, and others that allow them to observe sleep patterns. No matter the experiment, most researchers are more than willing to fork out some extra cash to keep them from having to become the experiment subject.

If you don’t really mind being a lab rat, go ahead and take the money!

Selling Your Car

Before you say it, no, this isn’t a suggestion that you sell whatever car you have right now. Obviously, if you need a car in order to function, you should have a car.

But you don’t have to have a nice car. An easy way to raise money that could be dedicated to paying for school is to sell a classic or vintage automobile.

There are many models made before 1971 that have market values in excess of $19,700 today. The 1967 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am in particular would rake in an incredible $136,000 in 2016.

Sure, you look pretty sweet cruising around town in a classic ride. But you know what’s even sweeter? Relief from $100,000 in student loan debt.

Tutoring

You’re already studying anyway, so you might as well teach other people how to become better students, especially if their particular struggle is in a class you passed with ease.

College students will be very willing to pay you to help them pass a test, write a long essay or even improve their overall grade in a crucial class.

Your hours can be whatever you want them to be, and there are no contracts or limitations to how much your workload can be from month to month. If you know everything about the SAT, ACT, and subject tests, then you can help future college students as well!

The best part is that the better you are at tutoring, the more referrals you’ll get, thus increasing your earning potential. You’re basically getting paid to study, and help others get better at studying. You never know, you might even help your own grades at the same time!

Career Opportunities Through Geriatric Social Work

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 21:47:00 +0000

For most people, when you say “social worker” you think of someone working with children and families — your first thought might even be an incorrect image of an overworked caseworker removing children from their homes and placing them in foster care.

However, there is a much wider range of opportunity for social workers outside of the realm of children and families. In fact, social workers are committed to helping all people in need. They help people at all ages and stages of life access the services and tools they need to thrive and live healthy lives. Yet there is one population in dire need of help, and a shortage of qualified workers could mean that many people do not gain access to the services that they need.

As the population ages, seniors have a greater need than ever for help managing the social, financial, and health issues that come with old age. Whether it’s someone facing a chronic disease who needs daily medical care, or someone facing the isolation that can come from the loss of family and friends over time, the range of services required by older adults is vast, and there’s a great need for social workers trained in gerontology and aging issues. Add in trends such as the increase in elder abuse and the desire of many people to “age in place” rather than in assisted living or nursing care facilities, and the need for qualified social workers becomes even more apparent.

So how do you get involved in geriatric social work? The first step is understanding what social workers do.

Geriatric Social Work Overview

Geriatric or gerontological social workers are focused on meeting the physical and social needs of older adults. They can be found in a wide variety of settings, such as hospitals, state agencies, service and referral agencies (i.e., agencies on aging), rehabilitation centers, nursing homes and assisted living facilities, and private practice.

Depending on the agency and the specialty of the social worker, some of the services that one might provide include:

1) Referral to necessary services, including health care, financial advice and assistance, and legal services.

2) Functional evaluations to determine eligibility for services.

3) Mental health evaluation and counseling.

4) Discharge planning after hospitalizations.

5) Support and advocacy in matters of health, money, and social lives. For example, social workers are trained to identify signs of elder abuse and take action when necessary.

Social workers often work closely with other professionals, including health care providers, attorneys, and financial advisors, as well as families, to ensure that older adults are well-cared for and have everything they need.

Becoming a Geriatric Social Worker

At minimum, to begin a career in geriatric social work you need to earn at least a bachelor’s degree, in a field such as social work, psychology, or gerontology. In some cases, nurses have moved into social work roles as well. However, every state requires social workers to be licensed, and that means earning a master’s in human services or social work and passing the licensing exam. In addition, to be eligible to take the social work examination, you generally need to complete a minimum number of supervised practicum hours; in most states, the minimum is 3,000 hours, but the specifics vary.

In any case, you will be expected to have specialized knowledge of the issues that affect older adults, including mental and physical health issues. You will generally complete coursework not only related to working with the elderly themselves, but also in social policies and current issues relating to older people, ethics, and gerontological research.

Career Opportunities

The number of people age 65 or older is expected to reach 72 million by the year 2030, comprising 20 percent of the U.S. population. This means that going forward, there will be a wide array of opportunities for gerontological social workers. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistic predicts demand to increase by 19 percent, which is faster than average.

Salaries vary for jobs in this field. The BLS reports a median annual salary of about $44,000, with the highest earners topping out at around $57,000 per year. Earning potential varies according to the employer, region, and level of experience, with those working in private practice or for private agencies earning the most.

Geriatric social work is a rewarding and growing field. If you have the urge to help, but aren’t sure you want to work with children, you have other options — and senior citizens need your help.

5 Things You Must Do to Work in Government

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 17 Nov 2014 21:42:00 +0000

Working for the government has several advantages over private sector employment. From opportunities for growth, advancement, and job security, to competitive salary and benefits, working in the public sector is an ideal way to build a satisfying career while also making a difference in the lives of others. And considering that more than 80 percent of all government jobs are located outside of Washington, D.C., there’s a reasonably good chance that you can find a government job wherever

you happen to live.

However, just because there are plenty of government jobs, that doesn’t mean that they are easy to get. Landing a position in the public sector is slightly more complicated than landing one in the private sector, as the requirements tend to be a be more stringent, and there is a bit more red tape to cut through. You can improve your chances, though, and help streamline the process by taking certain steps ahead of time.

1. Keep a Spotless Reputation

Clearly, most people don’t deliberately cultivate a poor reputation. However, when you want to work for the government, how you conduct yourself before you’re hired can make a significant difference in whether you’re hired or not. Some positions require extensive background checks, and unfortunately, your wild “party days” during college could come back to haunt you. That doesn’t mean you need to be a stick in the mud, but as you make decisions, consider how the fallout during a background check. If you think you might be embarrassed or that it could hurt your chances, don’t do it.

2. Earn Your Degree

Most well-paying government positions require applicants to hold at least a bachelor’s degree. In most cases, though, a master’s degree will move you higher up the list. Government leaders — city managers, agency directors, and the like — need the skills in decision-making, communication, leadership, and problem-solving provided by degrees like a Master of Public Administration. With such a degree, you stand a better chance of landing your perfect governmental position.

3. Develop an Appropriate Resume

It might sound bureaucratic, but when you apply for a government job, your standard chronologically formatted resume isn’t going to get you interviews, especially when you are applying for federal jobs. Applicants generally have to include additional information on their resumes, particularly if you have ever held a position within the government before. In addition, this is one area in which creativity doesn’t really count, at least when it comes to your resume. Your best bet is to visit a site like USAjobs.gov, the central hiring database for government jobs, and use the tools there to format your resume properly.

4. Become an Intern

It might seem unfair, but many government agencies and departments rely heavily on their internship programs to find new employees, hiring primarily from the pool of successful interns rather than seeking outside applicants. This means that you may never have the chance to even apply for certain positions, or at the very least, face fierce competition from those who have direct experience. This is just one reason that you should seek internship opportunities in the public sector. Not only do you gain a competitive advantage when it comes to employment, you also gain insights into the inner

workings of a department or agency that you may not otherwise have. In addition, you can begin building your network, which is a vital component to success in any field.

5. Develop In-Demand Skills

It’s not difficult to determine what the federal government’s priorities are. Just pay attention to the news and follow the development of government programs and initiatives. For example, current government priorities fall within the realm of health care, education, cybersecurity, and the Middle East. Therefore, applicants with experience within those areas have a better chance of standing out in a crowded talent pool. Consider studying a second language, particularly one in high demand, such as Arabic or Farsi, and building your expertise in a specific area. Look for skills that will allow you to stand out and help you do your job better.

Of course, even if you do all of these things, landing that plum assignment can still be challenging. Above all, you need to be persistent and patient. The hiring process can be slow, particularly with federal jobs, and it might be three months or more before you hear back on an application. However, when you have the right skills and a commitment to public service, you shouldn’t have any trouble landing a government job.

Thesis, Capstone, Dissertation: What's the Difference?

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 03:37:00 +0000

After several years of attending classes, writing papers, and taking tests, you might think that your work is done and you can waltz out of college with a degree. That may be true in some cases, but many programs have one more requirement for students who want to earn their degrees: A final project.

Every program and school has their own specific parameters, but the final project usually falls into one of three categories: A thesis, a capstone, or a dissertation. Which type of project you’ll be required to complete varies depending on your college program and what type of degree you’re seeking. However, understanding the difference between them will help you to plan ahead to ensure that your final project is the best it can possibly be.

1. Thesis

In the past, the thesis paper was the most common type of project completed by both undergraduate and graduate students as a final requirement for graduation. At the undergraduate level, these intensive research papers were often offered as either an option for students who wanted to get a head start on graduate-level research or a requirement for graduating with honors in their major.

In the simplest terms, a thesis paper is an academic research paper built around a strong thesis statement. Depending on the subject, the thesis either is a new interpretation of existing research on the subject, or based on original research conducted by the student combined with existing knowledge in the field. For example, an undergraduate media studies student may choose to research the portrayal of a certain demographic on television, and conduct a content analysis of several programs to compare the current state of television to existing conclusions.

The purpose of a thesis paper is to provide an opportunity for students to apply the knowledge they have gained in their college coursework while simultaneously expanding their knowledge via research. It’s not a “typical” research paper; it’s much longer, for starters, with specific formatting requirements. In addition, students are generally required to present and defend their research to a thesis committee, who may ask for revisions before accepting and grading the project.

2. Capstone

A capstone project shares many characteristics with thesis papers, in that it’s a large-scale project in which a student can demonstrate his or her knowledge and apply what’s been learned in class. However, capstone projects are more than just a paper, although they usually include a written component.

In most programs, the capstone project requires students, working either individually or in a group, to complete a “real-world” project involving an actual product, service, or client. For example, a capstone project may involve developing new software or communication tools to improve client processes. In addition to developing and implementing a solution, capstone projects usually involve developing a thesis statement, conducting research, and reporting on the results of the project in a written form as well as a presentation.

3. Dissertation

While thesis and capstone projects are usually reserved for undergraduate and graduate levels, doctoral candidates often must complete a dissertation in order to earn their degrees. A dissertation is the most rigorous type of academic research. While a thesis or capstone relies on the application of existing research, a dissertation requires highly focused and original research and application. For example, a student seeking a doctoral degree in educational leadership might conduct an action-based study, examining an existing practice to identify potential areas for change, and then testing a proposed solution to those issues. However, the most important point is that rather than reinterpreting or applying existing research and theories, a dissertation is a new addition to the canon of research on the topic.

Because dissertations are expected to represent the pinnacle of academic excellence, they generally take several years to complete (as opposed to the one to three semesters needed for a capstone or thesis) and there is a high level of guidance at every step. In most cases, dissertations are reviewed and approved by committees, who are involved with the projects at every point. However, in addition to earning a doctoral degree because of the project, most students are able to publish their research, adding an additional credential to their CV.

Completing a final project is an important part of concluding any type of academic program. Look into your program’s requirements well in advance, so you’re prepared with a proposed topic and plan when it comes time to complete your research project. You might even find that your final project to be among the highlights of your academic career.

Do More than Teach with a Master's in Special Education

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 13 Nov 2014 03:26:00 +0000

Most people who pursue a master’s in special education do so with the intent of becoming a special education teacher. After all, most states require such educators to have completed, at minimum, a special education training program if a master’s degree isn’t required.

However, earning such a degree presents a number of opportunities outside the classroom as well. Law enforcement, health care, social services, and the media are all in need of experienced professionals with a background in special education.

Not convinced? Check out some of the doors that your special education credential can open up.

Social Services Providers

When children are hospitalized due to illness or injury, their medical team relies upon social services coordinators to help the patient and his or her family access necessary programs and services, and to

help them provide the best possible care to their young patients. With your degree in special education, you can help determine patient eligibility for extra services, advocate for patients’ educational needs, and help coordinate treatment plans. A special education program also helps prepare you for certification as a Child Life Specialist, a health care professional who helps children and families as they deal with illness, injury, disability, and hospitalization.

Depending on the agency or organization, a social services provider earns an average of around $40,000 per year, with those who earn the Certified Child Life Specialist credential among the top earners overall.

Writer and Tester

In order for children to receive special education services, in most cases they must undergo a series of diagnostic tests designed to pinpoint the issue and identify appropriate measures. The tests are usually administered by trained professionals with a background in special education who can effectively interpret the results and make appropriate recommendations.

Not only do special education professionals deliver exams, they also help create them. Using their in-depth knowledge and experience, they devise exams that are both effective and developmentally appropriate. Special education experts are also in demand as writers of textbooks, and training and informational materials. In most cases, these roles also require some degree of classroom experience in addition to a degree, but the earning potential is competitive. A full time writer, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, earns about $50,000 per year. However, many special education teachers provide writing, editing, and testing services on a freelance basis, earning a steady income in addition to their full time jobs.

Rehabilitation

For people with physical, emotional, and learning disabilities, a rehabilitation counselor can mean the difference between being able to care for themselves and relying on others for everything. If you hold a special education degree, you may be able to work as a rehab counselor, helping children and teens with disabilities develop strategies for managing everyday life or participate in certain activities.

You might find these positions in schools, where you would work with a single student or a small group in a classroom, at a rehabilitation center, or in private practice. Private practice usually requires that you obtain a license, which may require additional education and training. Demand for rehabilitation counselors is expected to grow by 20 percent within the next decade, but salaries are still on the lower end of the spectrum, averaging in the low to mid $30s. Counselors in private practice tend to earn substantially more money each year.

Law Enforcement

It might seem strange that you can use your special education degree in the law enforcement field, but it’s true. Correctional facilities often hire people with a background in special education to teach or provide rehabilitation services to inmates. Studies show that more than a third of all inmates in juvenile correctional facilities received special education services at some point prior to incarceration, and the law requires that children with disabilities continue to receive those services while they are in detention.

This is an extremely challenging, yet rewarding specialization, with above average earning potential. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average salaries for a corrections officer is about $48,000 per year, with the region, level of security, and level of education all factors in actual salaries.

Earning a special education master’s degree does not mean that you are limited to working in schools. From hospitals to jails to your own private practice, a special education degree is a versatile credential that offers a wealth of career opportunities.

Change Your Major - Or Change Your School? How to Decide

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 12 Nov 2014 03:20:00 +0000

We’re a few months into the new school year, and it’s official: You hate it. You would rather have dental surgery every day than spend one more minute on campus. The worst part? You have no idea what went wrong. On paper, everything seemed perfect.

At this point, you may be thinking about packing it in. Maybe you’ve thought about transferring to another school and starting over. But before you make a life-changing decision — and take on all of the stress and expense that goes with it — take a few moments to determine the real source of the issue.

The Problem Is Your Major

When you applied to college, you may or may not have had a clear vision of what you wanted to do with your life. Either way, you were most likely encouraged to choose a major, with the caveat that you could change it later on if you wanted.

Well, “later” has finally arrived, and you are miserable. You might be blaming your unhappiness on other factors, such as the other people on campus, your housing situation, the cafeteria food, but the fact is, if you hate what you are studying for 30-40 hours a week or more, it’s going to cloud your perception of everything else. Before you check out though, ask yourself these questions:

Why did I choose my major? If you only chose your major because you had to pick something, because you were pressured by your parents, or because you heard that you can earn a huge salary in that field, there’s a good chance that you will hate it.

Do I like this subject? First things first: Every major is going to require coursework that you will find boring or pointless. It’s inevitable. But if you discover after a few classes that every class is dull, and that you just aren’t interested in learning more about the subject, a major change is in order. Consider this: Do you want to spend the rest of your life, or at least the next few decades, focused on that subject?

How are you performing? If your grades stink, you might be in the wrong place. Of course, poor performance could be due to lack of interest and effort, but if you are really trying and still can’t seem to catch up or grasp the information, you might be happier in another program.

There is nothing wrong with changing your major; in fact, most college students change their program of study at least three times. If you’re truly unhappy, think about whether it’s due to your studies, and make the necessary change.

The Problem is Your School

Sometimes, the problem runs deeper than your coursework and you need to make a bigger change. Transferring to a new school is a big decision, but in some cases, it is the better one. If any of these apply to you, then a change of scenery may be in order.

You can’t study what you want. If you’ve decided that a change of major is in order, but your current school doesn’t offer what you want, you may need to transfer. Even if you have taken classes in a wide range of subjects without any clear focus, most colleges will allow you to transfer the credits you already have so you don’t have to start from scratch.

You can’t afford your school. Even if you love your school, if the bills are piling up and you are facing a mountain of debt after graduation, you might want to think about transferring somewhere more affordable.

You’ve tried fixing issues and you’re still miserable. Sometimes, campus life just isn’t a good fit. If you’ve tried everything — and we mean everything — to be happy on campus, such as moving to a new dorm or off campus, joining different activities, and talking with your advisors and residence life staff, and it still hasn’t worked, transferring may be the right choice. There are times when you simply can’t fit a square peg into a round hole, and the sooner you acknowledge that, the better.

One of the best parts about going to college these days is that nothing is set in stone. It’s a time for exploration, experimentation, and self-discovery. So don’t avoid the hard questions when you are unhappy, and make all the changes you need to get where you want to be.

5 Steps to Find Your First Job in Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 05:13:00 +0000

Finding your first job in Dubai can be roller coaster ride that you definitely want to avoid. These simple steps will help you finding the right job in Dubai.

Introduction

If you have just graduated college and are looking for job opportunities, then Dubai is definitely the place to be. The UAE is the economic hub of the Middle-East with Dubai and Abu Dhabi becoming the most preferred locations for expats. Finding a job in Dubai is surely not an easy task to do with so many people willing to work there. There are a few steps that can land you at your dream destination.

Before the steps, it is important to know about the economy of Dubai and what is the living standard there.

Getting to Know Dubai

Dubai is one the seven emirates of the UAE and is located on the southeast coast of Persian Gulf. The emirate has the largest population in the UAE and is the second largest emirate after Abu Dhabi. Dubai’s economy which was earlier highly dependent on the oil and natural gas sector has diversified itself to a number of other sectors. Today, the tourism and manufacturing sector comprises of the major part of the economy. The economy of Dubai is divided into seven parts as follows:

· Tourism

· Industry and Manufacturing

· Financial Services

· Construction

· Other Professional and Government Services

Dubai has a diversified and a dynamic economy and enjoys a strategic location. Dubai serves as the major business hub of the Middle-East and is the biggest re-exporting center there. The emirate has a well-established trading links and a growing international trade business. It has an open and free economy that attracts a lot of investors and businesses from round the globe. Being a tax free zone, Dubai is one of the favorite cities where the expats are keen to work in.

The Quality of Life and Living Conditions in Dubai

Dubai has a high quality of life and excellent living conditions. The private sector has seen heavy investments in real estate developments such as luxurious hotels, many commercial and residential projects that have contributed to the better living conditions of Dubai. Living conditions in Dubai is excellent due to numerous factors such as infrastructural facilities, neat and clean environment, cultural diversity, cosmopolitan lifestyle and easy availability of consumer goods.

5 Steps to find your first job in Dubai

The vibrant city of Dubai has a lot to offer to the people who chose to work and live here. But finding and settling in Dubai is not an easy process and requires you to do an exhaustive search and research about different opportunities. Dubai creates a lot of job opportunities and to grab one of them you need to do some things right. Here is how to go about finding the right job in Dubai.

Step 1: Know what the employers are looking

You may have all the qualifications that suit the job profile but if you are not presenting it in a way that impresses the employer, your qualifications hold no importance. In Dubai employers test the candidates on some other parameters that judge their ability to survive in the city. Having a capability to survive in a varied culture and good communications are some skills that the employers readily look in a potential candidate.

Step 2: Make plans and short list the employers

The job portals list thousands of vacancies in Dubai, but you know your competencies can not match every job in Dubai. Therefore, the second step is to first short list the jobs you think you fit into and then short listing the employers. Just throwing away CV’s at every employer is not something you should do. In fact list a few, modify your CV according to needs of the employer and then send across it. The chances of getting a call increase if you modify your CV.

Step 3: Update your social media profiles

Update your social media profile like Facebook or LinkedIn, if you haven’t done it yet. Employers readily look for the online presence of a candidate. Not only the social media help the employers to know about the candidates but also help the candidate to know about the latest openings and happenings in the job market of Dubai.

Step 4: Find a professional recruiting agency

Most companies in Dubai seek professional help from recruiting agencies especially for fresher’s as they can trust them. Though these agencies charge you for the job they will provide you, but it is better to trust them as employers directly get in touch with them for the openings. One thing to keep in mind is that genuine agencies will never ask for a direct fee as that is illegal.

Step 5: Build Language skills

The employer may not put it in the job description, but having a little idea about the local language definitely gives you the edge over others. Learn basic Arabic before you make the decision of moving to Dubai. This skill will ease your job process and many recruiters will start short listing you.

The Last Words

Moving to an entire new country can be scary at times. Even with the opportunities and growth options that you can find in your career sometimes it is difficult to survive in a new world alone. Before moving to Dubai, try building your network and try to find out people who are already settled there and belong to your community.

Dubai is a city with 90% expatriate population and finding one of your kinds will not be that difficult. The city has expatriate groups that have their presence on the social media and are readily available to help and welcome someone new into their community.

The best way of finding a job in Dubai is to be proactive, suave and smart in your job search. Remain patient and stress free as the process can be lengthy and time consuming. Pen down your strategies and try adding new ones each time you look at them.

Author Bio: Akansha Arora is a professional writer and blogger. She is happy to pen down her views for various topics that include career advice, job search and more that interest on behalf of naukrigulf.com. Follow her at akansha.arora2112@gmail.com

Tips to Fix College Essay Writing Problems

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 16:40:00 +0000

There are some common problems that most students face while writing college essays. Students make errors in writing college admission essays all of the time. They should make sure that the hard work they put in for writing essays does not go waste, instead earning the highest score possible. At the outset let us look at some common errors which students commit while writing college essays and also the ways to correct them.

1. Repetition: This is a common stylistic error found in most college essays and also in college admission essays. Repetition is seen as redundancy which makes the essay dull and readers lose interest immediately. A college essay should not have the same structures being repeated. One sentence should convey one clear meaning. Ambiguous sentences and abstract constructions are to be avoided.

2. Use of Vague Words: An essay should not have vague words like things or stuff. Students must use precise words while writing essays. Do avoid words with more general meaning such as society, aspects, groups etc. Instead use words with specific meaning in college essays. Do talk about what you are referring to directly and do not use round about techniques.

Essay writing challenges. Flickr: prusakolep

3. Excessive Use of “I”: In an admission essay the use of “I” is necessary, but it should not be used in excess. It becomes repetitive to read frequent occurrences of “I”. In college essays also the use of first person pronoun beyond an extent makes the essay monotonous and boring for the readers. The use of “I” should, therefore, be limited to a moderate level.

4. Use of too many Adjectives and Adverbs: Adjectives and adverbs are the embellishments in an essay. But too many of them in a single essay would make the essay difficult and hard to digest. Hence an appropriate use of adjectives and adverbs is desirable in college essays.

5. Use of Weak Verbs: Verbs are bifurcated into strong and weak verbs. Essays look wonderful when strong verbs are employed at the right places. Strong verbs convey the action or state of being. Weak verbs appear vague in essays. Therefore, to the maximum extent possible employ strong verbs only in college essays. Strong verbs are often descriptive and indeed state the action or state of being.

6. Use of Clichés: Clichés are phrases that are used again and again. They should not be used in an essay. If employed, they most often lose the point for which they are used. Use of clichés shows that the writer is not creative enough to employ novel constructions. Therefore, it does not serve any purpose in an essay.

An essay should be interesting, informative and at the same time entertaining for the readers. A paragraph should focus on one main point and each sentence should convey one single meaning. Do not employ complex constructions unnecessarily in an essay. Ambiguity and abstract usages do not enrich an essay. Instead, the concept should be clearly mentioned to the readers. It is, in fact, the responsibility of the writer to say what he has to say in an intelligible manner.

Author Bio: James Smith is a dissertation mentor at Bestdissertationwriting.net, an online source to seek help from experts to write about popular dissertation topics

How to Reach the Top with an Online Degree

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 21 May 2014 18:38:00 +0000

The internet’s ability to penetrate our lives is utterly mind boggling.

Ever since the glint in Tim Berners-Lee’s eye evolved into the World Wide Web as we know it, folks have gone bananas for cats who “haz cheezeburgerz” and memes of an exasperated Jean-Luc Picard.

Add in catching up with friends via Facebook and Twitter, or buying Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles memorabilia from eBay, and it’s safe to say the modern online experience can be mesmerising.

However, it’s not just frivolous activities that have us smitten.

Hundreds of thousands of would-be students the world over are turning their backs on traditional bricks and mortar universities in favour of gaining a degree via distance learning.

In the UK alone, over 400,000 learners are studying for an online degree, boosting qualifications, increasing their earning power and dovetailing work and family commitments with their studies.

But what are the other benefits of an online degree as opposed to uprooting and opting for life on campus?

The Advantages of an Online Degree

Whether you’re just out of high school and considering your next step, or you’ve been away from education for a while, distance learning offers you the opportunity to study a vast range of subjects.

If you’re mad for marketing or eager to learn economics, this method of study won’t restrict your aspirations just because it’s conducted digitally rather than in a stuffy lecture theatre.

flickr: usnavy

Additionally, given that you study in your own time and at your own pace, you avoid the mad rush to get to campus on time for a scheduled class.

Nevertheless, an online degree requires oodles of discipline.

After all, if you’re left to your own devices, the temptation to “take a quick look” at Amazon, catch up on Mad Men, or don your tinfoil hat to look at government conspiracies can quickly creep in.

It’s alright, we understand.

In order to get ahead, though, you have to put your crush on Christina Hendricks to one side and concentrate on supplementing your existing skills with an accredited university qualification.

Learn How to Realise Your Potential

Considering the competitiveness of the modern employment market, to get a foot on the career ladder you want to climb requires being armed with a strong educational background.

With around 50 graduates applying for every job, jostling free from the pack and persuading employers that you’re the man or woman for the role is increasingly important.

Quite simply, if a potential employer is comparing candidates, the one with the drive and commitment to have successfully completed a degree is likely to nose in front.

Not only that, but if you’ve gained a qualification while working full-time, it demonstrates to prospective organisations that you’re ambitious and have a real commitment to self development.

That’s not just corporate mumbo jumbo, it’s the truth.

But how do students undertaking an online degree actually learn – what assignment methods are employed and what interaction do they enjoy with the fellow students?

Trade the Campus Experience for Distance Learning

Learning on campus involves a mix of lectures, tutorials and hushed library sessions – and distance learning is not too dissimilar.

Although you’ll study online and interact with tutors via Skype or forums, the teaching methods and course materials are second to none.

If you feel like you need to chat about what you’re learning with students in the same boat, your institution will typically have a discussion group set aside for you to post any questions or fears.

Although an online degree may lack the immediate face-to-face feedback you’d receive from a tutor on campus, you’re never left in the dark.

A dedicated team of teachers will be on hand to ensure your online learning experience goes as smoothly as possible – and with not a pimply high school leaver in sight ...

Juggling a Degree and Debt: 6 Tips to Make It Work

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 16 May 2014 00:00:00 +0000

College is a great cognitive adventure, where you learn about the intricate world around you and build a giant wall of debt in the process. And that debt can become like a scary monster, lurking in the shadows of your college experience.

Avoiding a future of paying off college debt can seem challenging, but with the right guidance, you can turn that foreboding monster into nothing more than a stepping stone to a future of great achievement. Here are some tips for getting through college with a manageable amount of debt.

Choose Your College Wisely

Brochures and websites can hypnotize you with pictures of students studying on an impossibly green lawn or kicking around a soccer ball in the quad, but beware of this distraction. There will be places to stage your brochure-worthy photo on all of the campuses.

Your college choice should be based on your future career goals and the cost of attendance, particularly the latter. Tuition and fees can make a huge difference in debt, and choosing a college with a more manageable cost of attendance can really save you in the future.

Get Funding for College

When you have a chosen a school that seems to fit the bill, do not merely glance over the financial aid portion of the application. Getting funded is the quickest way to minimize student debt. Understanding and accurately portraying your financial position can be the difference between a fellowship and a loan, the second of which you must repay after your college experience is over.

Funding college can be a challenge. Flickr LendingMemo

Be sure to contact a financial officer at the school for application help, and do not forget to inquire about specialized grants, scholarships, and funded positions offered by the school. These financial advisors are there to help you, so do not be afraid to use them. Minimizing your loans with funding on the forefront will help you manage your debt once college is over.

Work the Debt Away

Since debt cannot be studied or partied away (bummer), you can get ahead of your loan payments by working through college. While serving tables or working in retail may fit your schedule, these jobs should come second to those that can build your resume. Look for paid internships in your field, apply for teaching and research assistantships within your department, and consult your college career center for part-time and temporary jobs.

Maximize Your Savings

Making the money is only one step to the process. Finding ways to save that money is the key. Open a savings account and put a percentage of your earnings into it each month. By the time you are walking across the graduation stage, you will have a nice cushion of money to begin paying off your debts. Maximizing these savings by setting a strict budget and minimizing your bills will also increase your debt fighting arsenal.

Choose a Lucrative Career in Your Field

While sites will tell you jobs in public relations, accounting, and computer science are the best career paths based on a variety of indicators, do not let your major field decision be based solely on the money. Do your homework. Find a lucrative career path within your major to maximize both earnings and post-graduation contentment. This tip will help you maximize your earnings and attack debt in a timely manner.

Give Online Classes a Chance

While some majors are better suited to in-classroom learning, online classes can be a viable option for more straight-forward career paths. Think back to when you were a kid, what did you want to be? A nurse? A princess? A cop? There are online classes for these career paths (well, maybe not for being a princess) that can lead to greater savings when completing the requirements of your degree and quick job opportunities upon graduation.

Being mindful of your finances in college can pay off in the long run. If you take these tips to heart, you will be well on your way to a debt-free future, where you can warmly reminisce about your college experience, without being harshly reminded by student loan bills.

By: Bill Bilse

7 tricks to maximize your chance of winning a scholarship

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sat, 10 May 2014 05:58:00 +0000

Scholarship money, a great desire of every student, is the coveted offer that helps students in paying hefty college tuition fee. There are hundreds of student scholarship programs offered each year to students from middle school to freshly enrolled for colleges and universities. It is an interesting fact that almost every student thinks that he will never win the scholarship. Also, there are many students who never won despite applying multiple times.

Why do some students easily get scholarships, whereas others do not despite applying several times? The difference is HOW they apply. Even a high school valedictorian can’t win a scholarship, if he is a single day late. Your scholarship application that is superb in all ways is more likely to win scholarship money. Today, we will talk about some of the ways to successfully win scholarship money:

Always be the first for best chances of winning:

Most of the students apply for scholarships in spring of the final year of their high school. As these students are already accepted at college, they have pressure from their parents to find some way to pay their college tuition fee. Contrary, scholarships with deadlines by fall or early winter are applied by less number of students. You should know the most common times of scholarship openings and apply for all without missing their deadlines.

Set your own deadline for each scholarship:

There are so many activities, which keep students busy, like sports, extra-curricular or volunteering activities, job, and classes; so, whenever you find any scholarship, set your own deadline at least a week before the actual scholarship deadline. By doing this, you make it sure that no scholarship is missed and you have enough good time to include all required documents without any hassle of last-minute submissions.

Your first Impression must give you an edge:

Most of us have experienced opening an envelope with excessive use of tape on it, over-stuffed and smudged due to leaky pen. Did you ever like it? If you use a proper-size envelope, nicely close it and personally hand-over to post office, you will have an edge over many other applicants, who have sealed and dispatched in a poor way.

Get an appropriate email address:

Sweatheart@xyz.com might be a nice email address for you, but a mature and professional scholarship judge will not like it. JohnJones@xyz.com represents a serious applicant and judges will become more familiar with your name by reading it once again and makes you a memorable person for them.

Be positive on social media:

Just like an email address, your social media contacts and postings also matter. Judges can view your posts and sharings. If you have tweeted about boring experience at school or disliked any teacher etc, and still have high expectations of winning the scholarship, it will never happen. Social media sharings and posts reflect the personality of students. They should always share about their objectives, success stories, strengths, talents, achievements and big dreams.

Search for Local scholarships:

Generally, local scholarships get less competition, so you have higher chances of winning there. Keep an eye on all local scholarships and make yourself eligible for them, if they have any specific criteria. Suppose, your local club has started a scholarship competition and there is nobody member from your family. Call at home and tell them that you are excited and eager about this scholarship for your college; they’ll surely support you. You must not miss any local scholarship and create a situation to avail it. Don’t settle for just local scholarship programs. Go for all scholarships offered online, such as this one from takelessons, which is offering up to $5,000 to students who have a passion for academia, music or arts. You can also search online for large company organizations, as many of them offer great scholarships online.

Label each page of your application:

Each page of your application must have a label on it having your name, address, contact number and any other essential info. As there are hundreds of applications under-consideration, sometimes papers get separated and it is not possible to find the actual applicant; so judges get a valid reason to place it in a rejected pile.

Good luck with your college career and hopefully the advice will help you win a fantastic scholarship!

Chance to Win a Real $50,000 College Scholarship

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 07 May 2014 16:28:00 +0000

Did your parents meet on Match.com? Are you a Match couple with a child (or step child) between the ages of 13-20? If you answered yes to any of these questions you’ll want to read on to find out how the #1 dating site may save you $50,000 on college tuition!

More than 1 million babies have been ‘made” by Match connections since their launch and many of Match.com's earliest couples — who met nearly 20 years ago on this first-ever online dating site — now have children graduating high school.

To celebrate the small role the company has played in their lives, Match just launched an annual scholarship program called MatchMade, which will award $50,000 in college tuition to a student and even the parents of the winner get a prize: $5,000 for their own MatchMade getaway!

Need some inspiration to enter? Check out what happened when Match asked some MatchMade kids about life and love: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JoGP15fIDQ

To enter the scholarship contest, 13 to 20 year old students can submit a creative 1-2 minute video at www.MatchMade.com explaining how their parents met on the site. Submissions will be accepted through June 30, 2014.

Throughout July, Match will narrow down the applicants. In August they will post their 10 finalists for the public to vote on by sharing their favorite MatchMade video submissions across their social networks.

On September 1^st, the video with the highest number of shares will win the scholarship!

For more details, visit www.MatchMade.com and enter today! And if you do enter, don’t forget to share your video across your social media networks using the #MatchMade hashtag.

Different Jobs in Banking and Finance Industries At A Glance

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 07 May 2014 00:10:00 +0000

Despite heavy layoffs in 2008 and 2009, the banking sector has once again emerged among the fastest growing industries to offer better career options. This particular industry provides both lucrative and rewarding career opportunity to aspirants. According to an article published in Business Standard, the banking sector may come up with up to 20 fresh jobs in the next 5-10 years. This is because of issuance of new licenses and efforts being made by Reserve Bank of India and government. By this significant approach, the banking sector will be among the top job creators in 2014.

The Banking and finance industries looks for individuals who can sell and have operational, managerial and IT skills. Since a plenty of positions are available in banks and finance, a career is obviously varied and diverse. However, before deciding to work in this field, it needs to take a step back and consider which type of position would be suitable for you. Here is a list of some top positions in bank and finance with a brief highlight about them. Keep going ahead with this blog and determine which position you want to achieve.

Bank Teller

You can see bank tellers among the first people when you enter a bank. Bank Tellers offer excellent client service. They help resolve clients' problems by identifying referral opportunities for new products and services based on the customer’s financial goals. Apart from processing customer

Banking Jobs that Pay High Salaries Flickr: 401(k) 2012

transactions (like loan payments, savings deposits and all), they explain clients about bank products like loans and certificates of deposit to customers. They also resolve account service issues and respond to clients quarries promptly and effectively.

For a bank teller, you need to have a strong customer service skill, excellent verbal and written communication skills, analytical and problem solving skills, basic computer skills, and much more.

Financial Analyst

Financial analyst is one of the foundation stones of a bank. A bank depends to the great extent upon financial analysts for their expertise and guidance on investments, borrowing and other financial decisions. A financial analyst plays a major role. He tracks financial status by keeping watch on variances of plans, determining financial status by analyzing and comparing plans and forecasts with actual results. They also contribute to improving financial status by analyzing results and variances; recommending actions, identifying trends; reconciling transactions by comparing and correcting data. Furthermore, a financial analyst increases productivity by developing automated applications; eliminating duplications; coordinating information requirements. He or she provides information to management by assembling and summarizing data; preparing reports; making presentations of findings, analyzes, and recommendations.

To work as a financial analyst, you need to have a bachelor's degree, often in accounting, business administration, statistics or finance.

Loan Officers

Employers generally recruit loan officers who also play a vital role and contribute for the growth of an organization. The role of a loan officer includes assisting individuals and firms in applying for loans, assessing individuals' creditworthiness and helps them determine the most appropriate type of loan for customer's needs. Moreover, a loan officer also evaluates loan applications by confirming credit worthiness, rejects applications by informing applicants of additional requirements, approves loans by issuing checks or forwarding applications to loan committee, helps customers by giving them complete information about interest and all.

If you want to apply for a loan officer, you need to have a degree in finance, economics or a related field. You can apply for jobs in banks and financial institutions or loan lending firms.

Conclusion

Aforesaid is a list of top positions that are offered in bank and finance industry. If you want to apply for them, find a professional school which provides courses relevant to these positions.

Author - Sumit Dawas is a leading content strategist for www.learnwithflip.com, a largest e- training and certification offering in Banking and finance in India.

10 Sure-Fire Ways You Can Secure a Charming Summer Internship!

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 24 Apr 2014 14:26:00 +0000

Summer internships are the best resource for students to make the most of their vacations and use their time polishing their skills. Moreover, they get an opportunity to gain real life experiences of a professional working environment and enrich themselves as a student of their particular field. In other words, summer internships also offer students a chance to gain practical knowledge of their field. In this way, students are able to gain professional skills and experience.

Following are some effective ways you can find a perfect summer internship without any hassle.

1. Set your Goals

Prior to applying for an internship, you need to identify your preferences. Set your priorities and then establish the goals that you want to accomplish from an internship program. Determine your interests, objectives, needs and wants that could help you identify the type of internship that you should consider.

2. Network With the Right People

Networking is an important aspect when you are searching an internship opportunity. It exposes you to the right people who may come handy in your search for an internship program. Make contacts with everyone you know in your social sphere. Inform them about the type of internship that you are looking for. Make sure that they have your contact details so that they can easily get in touch with you when an opportunity is available.

Networking for internships can land you a job! Flickr COD Newsroom

3. Keep In Touch With Your College

It is important to stay updated about the current internship programs that your college is offering. Visit your professor or the concerned faculty of your college to get the necessary information. Check out their online resources and find the requisites for an internship.

4. Always Start Early

Graduates often find themselves entangled in their assignments, such as dissertation writing or editing. Consequently, they tend to delay their application for internship. Remember, starting early will get you ahead in front of others and you will be able to secure a stronger position than others. Plus, you need time to organize all your papers and do the necessary preparations. Also, never forget to research the company and get crucial details before sending your application. Making the preparations early will make you mentally prepared for an interview. As you will be among the first ones in the row, you will have higher chances of getting an internship.

5. Develop An Impressive Resume

A resume is an influential factor in your internship. Just like a job, a resume is your tool to showcase your skills or abilities for an internship. Describe your educational background and highlight the skills that make you a perfect candidate. Showcase the marks in your core subjects or mention any certificates that emphasize your distinct expertise in your respective field.

6. Prepare For the Interview

An internship interview is very much like a job interview. The hiring manager will gauge the authenticity of information in your resume based on your performance in the interview. Therefore, it is important that you prepare your best and dress up according to the code of conduct of the company. Do a mock interview a night before the ‘D’ day. If necessary, get a friend to help you with the practice sessions.

7. Stand Out Among The Crowd

Organizations are more interested in students who are unique and different. Bring to light the important aspects of your personality that define you. Mention the things, such as GPA, special characteristics and experiences, which can show you as a deserving candidate for the internship. With a distinct application, you will be able to capture the attention of the interviewer and so he will prefer you over other candidates.

8. Follow Up With The Interviewer

Always follow up with the interviewer once the interview is over. Send a thank-you note to express your gratitude for the chance. This will show your interest in the internship and consequently the interviewer will feel a strong sense of connection with you.

9. Broaden Your Research

Make your search for internship wider to various industries. Rather than focusing on a single organization, you should consider different other organizations that can utilize your skills and talent in the best possible manner. Use all your channels within your trade and grab every opportunity that matches your academic profile.

10. Check The Viability Of Your Internship

After all the things have finalized, you must evaluate the success chances of your internship. You can do it by answering the following important questions:

· Will this be financially reasonable for me?

· Will I be able to manage my studies with this additional work?

· How much time will I be consuming while doing this work?

About the Author:

A keen photography and a fervent writer, Martin Berk prefers to spend his time pumping up his knowledge through reading whatever he gets his hands on. He works as a specialist/advisor for a renowned company. He mostly spends his leisure hours polishing his photography skills or surfing Google+ |Facebook.

Survival Tips When Studying Abroad

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 17:15:00 +0000

Studying in a foreign country can be difficult in many respects, especially when learning different educational styles and cultures of any new country. Many students, who go to American or European countries for their higher studies find themselves in a difficult situation resulting from high prices. Students rarely have money to throw around, so living in a new country with a different cost of living can be challenging. Some students can just ask their parents for money, but others want to feel responsible for themselves and have the satisfaction of knowing that their hard work paid off. It is possible to get by with some good planning and budgeting as a student in a foreign country. Here are some ideas for students who want to study abroad without going completely broke.

1. Go For a Program that Offer Part Time Courses

There are a number of universities that offer both full time and part time courses. You might register as a full time student, but a shortage of money can force you to take a part time job. If you are enrolled in a university that does not permit a part time degree, then you will be forced to either quit your education or switch to a different university, which can be expensive. Therefore, it is important that you select a university that permits students to hold a part time job so that you can earn some extra money without risking your education.

Try not to get distracted abroad! Flickr: Simo0082

2. Hostel Rooms versus Hotel Rooms and Apartments

There are a few choices of for student housing, when you go to a foreign country and have no relatives there. You can either live in the university dorm rooms, you can rent a hotel room/hostel, or you can rent an apartment. Renting a hotel room for a long time will be very expensive, so don’t do it. Finding an apartment can also be expensive, but if you have some friends or classmates to split the cost with, this could be a great option. A third option is staying in university housing or dorms. A recent survey shows that the average cost of dorm rooms in American schools is three times that of an ordinary apartment with sufficient facilities. I recommend that as soon as you land in a new country you start searching for a safe area where you can get a cheap apartment. Then move into it when you have some roommates, so that the total living cost can be distributed.

3. Focus on Study

Many students that go abroad for their studies end up being waiters or cashiers to earn some extra money. They are not able to find a good job or complete their studies because they ignore their education. There are so many places to go and things to see that it is easy to forget you are actually still in school. If a student gets an "F" on his report card, he risks losing scholarships and financial aid at home. Although traveling and working a part time job might seem appealing, it should never be placed over the value of education.

4. Proper Consultancy

Students who arrive in a foreign country with the assistance of education consultants are often ignorant of market conditions and other relevant details of the country. A student studying in Canada might leave his Masters' degree program because he was unable to cope with the freezing temperatures. This is a problem that should have been identified early on in the selection process to make the most of an abroad experience. You should know what the job market looks like and how to become a resident of any country where you study. Students need to do a lot of initial research to make the most of their time abroad.

5. Language Barrier

You cannot go to a war without the necessary weapons. Likewise you cannot easily survive in a foreign country without knowing the language. In Germany, many universities offer courses in English, but it is still essential to learn German in order to survive in the country. Although a large percentage of the country speaks English, life is easier if you speak German. People you meet on the street will speak German and the default language will be whatever natives speak. To get a full experience from your time abroad, you should at least try to learn the language of the country.

Author Bio:- Katherine brunt has been writing in the field of education and student assistance since 4 years from the platform of Assignment Box, and is eager to help students at different stages in their educational and professional careers through her informative Blogs.

Starting Early For Future Success

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 04 Apr 2014 17:40:00 +0000

College is more than just grades and hanging out with friends. The value of a college education is all about learning and preparing for the competitive job marketplace. However, college students can easily find excuses to not make any efforts that could potentially contribute to future success. By preparing yourself early on in college, you will not only have more money in your pocket during college, but also be better prepared for the real world once you leave. Here are some tips to get you started:

Manage Your Budget Wisely

As they adjust to living in a new environment away from home, most students find it really hard to effectively budget their spending. Additionally, students who do set a budget plan typically take more than a month to do so. Clearly, then, it is important to be organized and to have a smart budget strategy in order to efficiently save money in college. The earlier you learn to budget, the less likely your money will be to escape you. When you first start allocating your budget for each expense, try to be as strict as possible. However, impulse purchases and unnecessary spending happen, so just try to slow the pace of another expense if you accidentally over spend on certain items.

Learning to Budget in College Will Be Useful for Years TaxCredits.net

Other common money saving tips in college include recording expenses, taking public transportation over cabs, trying not to dine out too frequently and renting cheap textbooks. Building smart spending habits and learning budgeting basics will help you form a strong foundation for money management.

Start Networking Early

College is the ideal time to start networking for your future career. A misconception about networking is that only seniors and recent graduates network. However, it is never too early to start making new connections. Unfortunately, many college students do not take advantage of the networking resources offered by their career centers. The career center is always a great resource to connect you with professionals from a wide variety of industries because of its established links with past students, who can then put you in contact with potential employers. Moreover, acquaintances who you meet via networking can be very productive by providing you with a diversity of knowledge and backgrounds than people with whom you are already familiar.

Before you start meeting people, you need to be well prepared and make yourself worth getting to know. Networking is a mutual gathering and sharing of ideas. If you consider yourself a valuable resource then everyone can get value from meeting with you. Do not just lead with self-interest; you are also a great resource of information, ideas and connection for others. So, attend every networking event or career fair if possible. Even if you are not currently searching for a job or internship, networking never hurts.

Social networking has becoming increasingly important in addition to face-to-face networking when it comes to job searching. For example, LinkedIn is a fantastic professional networking platform that connects you with people who share your interests. Also, more and more companies are using LinkedIn to find prospective candidates. The beauty of a social networking platform is that it provides you an easier way to connect you with a potential employer or a direct referral. An internal referral gives you a higher chance of obtaining the job offer. Keep in mind that even if there are no current openings available, these connections can possibly help you in the future. So, keep in touch with the people you meet and do not miss out on any networking opportunities.

Excel at Excel

Computer skills are fundamental to many businesses. Microsoft Excel is one of the most useful, powerful and utilized product in the workforce. Being proficient in Excel is a basic qualification on most job postings because Excel can be used for so many different ways. Almost every industry employs Excel in everyday activities such as data tracking and report generation. No matter what company or position you are going for, there’s a good chance you’ll be working with Excel documents. If your university offers a course or workshops in Excel training, just to take it.

Author Bio: This post is contributed by Skyo, an online site that helps college students save money with cheap textbooks and flexible rental options.

5 Underlying Causes Of Monday Blues And Their Solutions!

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 01 Apr 2014 20:00:00 +0000

The hangover of the weekend fun isn’t over yet, and you want to remain in that groove a little more. However, the tinkling sound of your alarm clock just does not let you snooze for even a minute more. At last, you reluctantly wake up and do the preparations. You rush to the loo, put on your uniform, pack your bag and hit your school.

By the time you reach college, you already feel fatigued and lazy. You have missed your breakfast, and now you have to go through six hours of intense studies. You have to force your eyes to remain open so that you can concentrate on your work. This feeling of weariness just makes you go insane and compels you to flee from the classroom.

Monday mornings are always a nightmare – technically speaking, it is a “Daymare” – for students. After all the fun on weekend, they have to prepare for the usual affairs of classes and studies. No wonder there is a higher ratio of students who bunk classes on Monday. However, if Monday blues is something that you are battling with every week, then the following guidelines will help you fight it better:

Partying Late Makes Waking Up Monday Difficult! Flickr: Jirka_Matousek

1. Resist The Urge To Stay Awake Late On Weekends

Cause: Students often hangout on Weekends, till late night, and have a blast. The ecstasy of partying keeps them awake till the wee hours. In an attempt to vent out all their stress, they forget that they have other commitments as well.

Solution: Monday is the first day of the week and if you ruin it with your last night adventures, then you are actually messing up your whole week. While weekend is a good opportunity to relax and chill out, it does not do any good if you stay awake till 2 am. The 4-5 hours of sleep that you get after staying up late is enough to cause your Monday Blues. Therefore, you should go to bed an hour earlier than your usual routine so that you can avoid the sleep deficit caused by the late night hangouts.

2. Make a Plan

Cause: Without planning and organization, students often wreck their whole weekend. Due to lack of planning, they fail to do their work or chores systematically and thus delay things till late night. Ultimately, they wake late at night and ruin their Monday morning.

Solution: Students who plan their Sundays are able to manage both their life and studies better than the couch potatoes. Make your plans a day before Sunday and set the time table. A strategic planning will help you accomplish your tasks in a timely manner and avoid postponing the things until midnight.

3. Have a Nutrition-Rich Breakfast

Cause: Many students skip the breakfast in a hurry to catch their class. Ultimately, they feel tired and sleepy during their lectures and lose the focus on their studies.

Solution: Skipping the breakfast is the ultimate blow to your studies. If your brain takes time to wake up and if you have constant bouts of drowsiness, then hopping your morning meal is the worst thing you can do on the Monday. Get a nutritious breakfast and have some hot coffee to stimulate your mind and soul. With a healthy breakfast, you will feel more energized to start your day.

4. Wake Up Early

Cause: Many students who complain about Monday blues have a habit of waking up late. They tend to stay late and wake up early, when the Sun is out. Consequently, they feel less motivated for the studies and take their class in the state of sleepiness.

Solution: Students who wake up late often delay the things and disturb their entire work cycle of the week. Avoid the temptation of waking up late on Monday and instead hop out of your bed a few minutes earlier. This will help you arrange your things in advance and thus you will able to enjoy your day and work energetically. You can use this time sorting out your assignment or preparing the notes. In this way, you will feel more relaxed and motivated for the classes.

5. Organize Your Tasks For Monday

Cause: Mostly students mess their Mondays due to their lack of organization. Students stack loads of work of the previous week for the Monday. So, when they start their work, they first have to tackle the work from last week and then proceed to the current week’s task, which is quite hectic. Ultimately, they feel an exaggerated feeling of anxiety and stress in the form of Monday blues.

Solution: Students can alleviate their Monday Blues by organizing their entire task before the weekend. In this way, they feel more energized and activated when Monday arrives. Always do your work on time and never leave anything for the next day or week, for that matter.

About the Author: Alastair Trot possesses considerable experience in the ed-tech world and takes pleasure in assisting both learners and educators with his exceptional expertise. He’s currently serving writingkingdom.co.uk and you can contact him on Twitter.

9 Amazingly Effective Tools To Create An Attractive Resume

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 28 Mar 2014 17:15:00 +0000

Your resume is a decisive factor in a job application. With an impressive resume, you are able to capture attention of your employer and create that first impression. For an employer, a resume means more than a paper. It helps him evaluate candidacy of a candidate and make the final decision. Despite the importance of resume, there are many candidates who do not work on this crucial document and end up writing a mediocre resume. More often, the reason is unfamiliarity with the necessary tools than lack of interest.

Here, I will discuss 9 really fantastic tools that will help you create a perfect resume that can match your professional stature and make you fit for a particular job.

1. Revu

Revu is a cool application to create and present a resume. Revu’s tagline says, “Don’t send your resume. Share your story”, and it truly means it. Revo allows you to lay out a fascinating resume that defines your profile in a unique way. This resume service gives an appeal to your online profile by showcasing your profile in a visually beautiful manner. Finally, what employers view is a story and not a plain description. The website gives you a complete platform where you can integrate multimedia elements to delineate everything related to your career. You can highlight you career achievements, analyze data about visitors or integrate LinkedIn into your profile. You can even share a link with others who can see your profile.

Building a Strong Resume Flickr: Vuhung

2. Visualize.Me

If you think that traditional resumes are just boring and lengthy, then Visualize.Me totally agrees with you. No employer reads the entire junk of information in your resume and cover letter. Employers only scan vital information in your resume that demonstrates your skills, experience and qualification. Visualize.Me provides a graphic approach to these details. It uses charts and figures to illustrate your specific skills in a way that makes a solid impression on the viewers. So, the next time an employer views your details, there are higher chances that he will call you for an interview.

3. DoYourBuzz

DoYourBuzz is a resume tool that gives you the leverage to craft a resume that will expose you to the employers and recruiters who might find an interest in you. With DoYourBuzz, you can practically do all the best things with your resume. You create a resume from some appealing template designs, upload your LinkedIn details, optimize your information, get the analytics and make changes in real-time. You can even go wider by converting your resume on a domain. All these features are available in just a few bucks.

4. CV Maker

CV Maker is yet another tool for creating attractive resumes with little efforts. An account on cvmkr.com can get you all features that will help you make an attractive resume. With CV Maker, you can create and publish a resume that perfectly matches your career profile. You can select from a variety of style to format your resume.

5. LiveCareer

LiveCareer is yet another online tool for creating a fascinating resume. This application offers a range of choices for a resume in terms of design and templates. The tool allows you to edit the format of your resume according to your requirements. Once done, you can publish your resume in five different formats.

6. Resumesimo

Resumesimo gives a creative angle to your resume writing. It particularly caters to the needs of fresh graduates who need jobs in creative fields. By using the colorful themes of resumesimo, they can tweak their resume and make it more vibrant and lively. It lets job seekers import details from their social profile, such as LinkedIn and Facebook, and create a resume that is just fit for a particular job.

7. Resunate

Resunate is not only a resume builder but it is also a smart curator that optimizes information in your resume to match skills for a job position. Employers use ATS (Automatic Tracking System) to find compatibility of a candidate for a job. Just like Google, ATS ranks the most compatible candidate on the top. Resunate sets information in your resume in a way that that makes it rank higher in compatibility test.

8. JobSpice

Do you need a simpler way to compose a fascinating resume? Get an account on JobSplice and you will be just 15 minutes away to an inspiring resume. Just enter your details and get a nice resume. No hassles of account activation. No lengthy process of writing and editing. Isn’t that simple?

9. Online CV Generator

Online CV Generator is your tool to make great resumes with ease and comfort. It takes only five minutes before you get a resume that perfectly tells who you are. All you need to do is to provide your details and this tool will generate a HTML version of your resume that truly pitches your skills.

Acker Reuben is an academic writer with particular experience in the field of education, currently serving at Assignment Camp, a UK based academic writing agency. He specializes in academia and loves to write on student affairs.

Job Hunting Tips for Freshers

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 26 Mar 2014 20:32:00 +0000

Have you recently graduated and are now looking for a job to kick start your career? It can be a daunting task to find a good job, especially if you have no prior experience. Most companies usually wish to hire someone who has worked before and is well-versed with the industry norms. So how does one prepare to get noticed in a crowd of job seekers, some of whom are more experienced than you are?

To get past some of the most challenging hurdles of recruitment, here are some useful job search tips for beginners.

Get Prepared

Get a voice mail system with answering machine installed so that you never miss an opportunity. Also, create a professional-looking email address. Drop the non-serious email addresses like ‘coolest_johnny@yahoo.com,’ instead opt for something like ‘john.mathews@gmail.com’. Consider signing up for a separate mail account altogether for the purpose of job search. This will help you remain organized and updated. Remember to always mention your mobile number on your CV so that recruiters can instantly get in touch. As The Huffington Post states, the economy is improving and with several opportunities waiting to be tapped all you need to do is decide what you want and gather all your weapons (CV, social media profile, recruitment portals, professional networks, hiring agents, etc.)

Job Hunting Tips for New Grads: Careerrocketeer

Prepare a Resume and Keep it Updated

At a crucial time when everyone is competing for the precious time and attention of the recruiter, it is suggested that you put in your best efforts to create a compelling resume. Nobody has the time to read through lengthy paragraphs so make sure you keep it legible and easy to skim through. CVs must always be short (not more than two pages) and should offer only significant information.

As a fresher, you may get tempted to lengthen your bio data with extra information just because your CV looks shorter than the others. But it is not necessary that a long document will always be better. You need to highlight your skills that match the job requirement. For this, make sure you research the company website and read the job description. Then, you can accordingly tailor your CV and cover letter.

One may also consider seeking professional help for preparing the CV. Once the CV is prepared it can be mailed directly to an employer, uploaded on a job portal or forwarded to a recruitment agent.

Keep Multiple Versions of CV Ready

Not only is it important to keep your resume ready to be sent out, it is also important to keep it customized for different job offers. You must review samples, create different templates and save multiple versions of your CV on your desktop. Even though your achievements and qualifications will remain the same, your approach will be different for different employers. It is advisable to keep it ready because you may not have a lot of time every time to sit and tweak your resume.

Seek Guidance

As a beginner, you will find a lot of people trying to give you advice on how to build a career. As much as it is good to receive guidance, stay away from too many recommendations made by your peers. No doubt that they will bring some interesting leads as they are your friends and find you worthy, but it is always better to seek recommendations from counselors and professors.

You should also utilize free services and sign up with job search portals that help you find the best of the jobs according to your potential and needs. Job search sites allow you to search for job opportunities based on your location, industry, functional area, expected salary, etc. They also provide additional services and send customized leads to your inbox. Check out company websites, job boards, associations and other niche sites. This way you will be able to search all the jobs posted on the web in one go.

You can also seek assistance from college career offices, placement cells, etc. You may also utilize the computer labs and libraries of your college. Most libraries provide workshops, computers with printers and other useful resources to help ease your job search process.

Curate your Online Presence

Firstly, if you are not registered on LinkedIn yet, you should create a profile and begin making connections. LinkedIn helps with job search as it lets you join professional circles. Maintain this LinkedIn account, even if you do not have any work experience.

When you go for interviews, one meeting is not enough for the interviewers to analyze you and they may seek the help of digital platforms and social networking sites, like LinkedIn and Facebook, to find out more about you. So it is advisable to keep your social profiles clean and privacy settings on. For instance, don’t show off your party pictures publically on Facebook or do not openly bad-mouth your boss on Twitter. Potential employers may not find these funny and you may come across as naïve. All these will negatively impact your candidature.

While you keep searching for a job, it is advisable to practice the introduction part. If you don’t hail from a leading college, it makes good sense to pursue an internship from a reputed organization or take on relevant projects that will eventually help improve your employability. All the best for the job hunt!

Author bio: A writer by profession, Devika Arora is currently focusing her writing on the extensive domain of job search. She has written various articles and blogs for the employment sector. The above article is a compilation of facts and discusses about job search tips for graduates.

How To Ensure The Best Education For Your Children

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 19 Feb 2014 02:30:00 +0000

Few things are as critical to your child’s future as a good education. As a parent, you naturally want your child to have every possible opportunity to live a happy and productive life. And the time to start building toward that goal is right now, even if your child is not yet old enough to enter the educational system.

Contrary to what adults might think, childhood and adolescence are inherently stressful times for a child, testing his or her rapidly expanding awareness of the larger world. The child naturally wants little more than to have fun, make friends, and to fit it. But between peer pressure, the media’s frequent distortion of reality, and underdeveloped faculties of logical discernment, today's children face greater obstacles than ever before. Your job as a parent is to help your child steer through those obstacles in a manner that causes him or her the least amount of difficulty, while at the same time building a strong moral and intellectual foundation. The choices you face might appear daunting, but by using available resources and your own good common sense, you should be able to face the task without too much difficulty... at least no more than standard difficulties inherent to parenthood.

Choosing a school

Pre-school - Even if your child is still a toddler, and a couple of years must pass before his or her formal education begins, you will need to begin to formulate a plan for his or her school experience. If both parents work, you might need to look into pre-schools. No longer merely formalized baby sitters, pre-schools offer your child a head start on the education process, by providing early instruction in basic comprehension, socialization, and reading & math skills. Beyond these functional skills, pre-schools also serve to help your child develop a social and moral compass. As such, you need to determine whether the approach taken by the pre-school is consistent with your own parenting objectives and guidelines. If the parents hold to a secular world-view, for example, enrolling a child in a strict, faith-based pre-school can cause significant conflict for the child, not to mention being the source of tension with the rest of the family. By the same token, if the child lives in a home where faith plays an important role, it only makes sense to enrol the child in a pre-school where practices and instruction closely resonate with the family’s beliefs.

School Boy Studying: Stockvault

Public, private, or home school?

While the majority of children attend public schools, more and more parents are choosing alternative education formats for their children. Private schools typically have higher teacher to student ratios, and can therefore offer more individualized instruction than can a public system with larger class sizes. They also offer the ability to somewhat limit the range of personalities with whom the child routinely associates, particularly in more exclusive or faith-based private schools. Home-schooling, of course, offers significantly more control over the child’s level of socialization, but this is actually a two-edged sword. While you will be able to insulate your child from many of the problems that plague public schools, you will also be severely restricting the opportunities the child has to develop a broader range of relationships and engage with people who come from different backgrounds. Whether the trade-off is worth it is a decision that requires significant thought on your part.

In addition, you have to honestly consider whether you are best qualified – in both your own education and temperament – to educate your child. Furthermore, there are significant logistical considerations to be weighed before undertaking the task of home schooling. When both parents work, even if the parent who will be providing the home schooling works from the home, it might be difficult to devote the time and energy necessary to properly educate the child. These are all considerations that must be addressed honestly if your child is to be afforded the education that he or she will need to thrive as an adult.

Finally, you should consider whether your educational choice will best prepare the child for his or her subsequent ventures. Does the public, private, or home schooling program increase your child’s qualifications for admission to the college that he or she might ultimately wish to attend, or prepare the child for whatever alternative career choices he or she might make, such as technical school, the military, or apprenticeship in a trade.

For additional information on choosing a school, the Department of Education website offers a free, downloadable booklet, available at http://www2.ed.gov/parents/schools/find/choose/choosing.pdf .

These are weighty choices, and certainly not to be taken lightly. In addition to today's concerns, you need to start preparing to pay for your child’s college education, but that is a topic worthy of its own article.

Author Bio:

This is a guest post by Sarah Brooks from Freepeoplesearch.org. She is a Houston based freelance writer and blogger. Questions and comments can be sent to brooks.sarah23 @ gmail.com.

Moving into a Dorm: What Should it Cost?

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 12 Feb 2014 21:17:00 +0000

If you're planning on staying at a dorm when attending college, you don't want to just show up empty handed. While a dorm room does have the basics like a bed frame, a desk and bathroom, you're going to find out that you're going to need a lot of things to feel like you're at home.

Depending on what you need to survive, here are the basics that you're going to need, along with the price --

Accessories

To make your dorm room feel like home, you're going to need a lot of little items that you may have never thought of in the first place. These items include: a floor lamp, area rug, fan, wall art and even speakers to play music.

Depending on what you need to make your dorm room feel like home, plan on budgeting at least $200 to buy your lamps, rugs and art.

Bathroom

Most dorm rooms will have a community bathroom on each floor. While you're not going to be keep your items in there all the time, it's recommended to keep a duffel bag filled with your belongings to make your showering as easy possible. In your bag, you should have a few towels, a sponge, toothbrush, hand dryer, robe, shaver, soap and shampoo.

Most of the time, you should be able to buy all of your bathroom materials for less than $100 or so.

Eating

Even though most dorms won't have a kitchen, it doesn't mean you won't be able to cook. Basic eating items that you should have will include: plates, cups, eating utensils, a travel mug, water pitcher, coffeemaker, microwave, electric kettle and refrigerator. However, before you buy a microwave or refrigerator, make sure that your college allow these things inside the dorm. Many colleges put restrictions on what's allow in the dorm.

Most of your kitchen necessities, such as utensils and plates, can be found at the local dollar store. Your microwave and refrigerator, on the other hand, could cost around $150 to $300 each, depending on your personal tastes.

Decorating a dorm cheaply. Photo: Flickr borman818

Laundry

Like the bathroom, most dorms will have a laundry room on designated floors. Your laundry supplies should include: a laundry basket, hamper, detergent, drying rack, iron and ironing board.

With your laundry supplies, plan on budgeting around $150.

Organization

Since you won't want a messy dorm, you're going to want the right tools to keep your room organized. Basic organization tools that you should consider are underbed storage containers, shoe storage, hangers, closet organizers, a storage trunk, duffle bag.

Depending on how much storage you're going to need, plan on spending at least $20 to $30 per storage container. Usually, $100 to $200 should be more than enough for your storage needs.

Sleeping

Most dorm rooms will have a bed frame, but some won't include the mattress. If you're unsure, call up your college to see what's included in the dorm. When it comes to sleeping, you will need pillows, a mattress pad, a topper, covers, sheets, a blanket and don't forget the alarm clock.

Depending on your personal tastes, it will cost anywhere from $200 to $300 to buy most of your sleeping supplies.

Study

Since most of your time is going to be related to school work, it's important that you have everything you need to study properly. These items will include: a desk lamp, wastebasket, laptop desk, a book light and a dry erase board. Like the mattress, some dorm rooms may already have desks built in the dorm. Again, if you don't know if a desk will be in your room, check with the college ahead of time.

Most of the time, your basic study items will cost up to $150 or so.

Final Costs

As you can see, moving into a dorm isn't going to be cheap. By using our estimates alone, you should be prepared to spend up to $1,500 to $2,000 to buy everything that you need to successfully move into your dorm. If this number sounds high to you, there are some things that you can do in order to save, including:

· Talk with your roommate and see what they are bringing.

· Go to your local dollar store. Many of these items can be found here.

· Buy used. Check out Craigslist or eBay for good deals.

Stephanie Lynch works with How Much Is It? -- a resource that has more than 4,500 cost helping guides. If you need to know the price of anything, you can find it here. Feel free to reach out to her on Twitter @howmuchforit

Do Strict Admissions Leave Room For Creative Students?

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 10 Feb 2014 21:07:00 +0000

While applying for college can be exciting, it also involves preparing for interviews and writing essays which can sometimes make the process very taxing. However, the procedures are not just stressful for the applicant, universities also go through a tough time considering the fact that they receive thousands of applications each round yet they only have a third of the chances available. Nonetheless, if you are preparing to make such an application, it's important to understand what the institutions look for so that you are better prepared for whatever comes your way.

1. Academic Performance

Colleges employ different processes in screening and admitting students. In general, there are some factors that they all highly regard --an applicant's academic performance is one of those things. Your class rank and GPA are indicators of your academic standing, meaning just like a good class rank, a higher GPA provides you with better chances.

2. Admission Essay

Universities also evaluate the information you give in an admission essay to assess your interests and find out whatever is unique about you. Some colleges place higher importance on the essay than others; therefore, to be on the safe side, it's important that you get it done right from the word go.

3. Recommendation Letter

A good number of learning institutions ask for a recommendation letter from your principal, teacher and counselor so that they get a professional outlook about where you stand with regard to education matters. To help you obtain such letters, it's important that you get a teacher with whom you have good relations.

Strict Admissions Standards: Flickr Michael Pecirno

4. Extracurricular Activities

You may have interest in different extracurricular activities during your time in high school, but the number of those activities doesn't matter if there's none you have been truly committed to. Colleges prefer to know how much time you have allocated to each and what you have achieved by taking part in those activities.

These are only a few of the things that universities look into prior to admitting students and due to the limited spaces available, the minimum requirements keep getting higher. Currently, only the most qualified learners can be assured of places in their preferred university.

Still, even when you are confident in your application, it's good to keep in touch with the institution to find out how things are going. For instance, you can inquire about any additional issues they may want to look at in detail, and also visit the school so you are viewed as a serious applicant.

Chances for Creative Students in Universities

Admission processes are overwhelming and with the current tight admission criteria, creative students have limited chances of making it into leading universities. With these limitations, it may seem as if such learners do not have sufficient opportunities to advance their creativity, but they do.

There has always been great emphasis on education; this is only applied to subjects that learners need to grasp to do well in their exams. If you are a creative person however, you shouldn't be discouraged because by expressing yourself, your mind gets more involved, and you become more efficient. With such a creative mind, you don't have to focus on questions with straightforward answers; you can read between the lines and show exactly what you feel about a particular subject.

There are colleges in which artistic individuals can enroll to advance their skill set to be able to venture into the creative industry. Hence, even though you may miss out on the top level institutions, art universities and colleges can provide you with an equally good opportunity to establish yourself in the industry or even set up your own business in the future.

Ryan Ayers is a writer who creates informative articles in relation to education and technology. In this article, he talks about the admissions system and how right brained students may have complications getting into accredited universities. He aims to encourage further education through University of Florida Online

Tips to Help Freshmen Adjust to College Life

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 03:19:00 +0000

Going off to college for the first time brings about a variety of emotions among freshmen. The range of emotion often starts with excitement, since most if not all teenagers cannot wait until such time to get away from their parents. The independence and freedom it affords can be quite intoxicating. The other perks that freshman year brings about are the opportunity to meet new people and to stay up late from partying all night long. However, college life is not all about parties. And, a freshman who is unable to cope with the changes and work required may crumble from the pressure.

According to psychology experts, the adjustment period of most freshmen typically involves a five-stage process. Living on campus is fascinating for students during their first year away from home. At this point, the level of excitement is high. However, as time passes and classes get going, many start to experience severe bouts of homesickness. Quite often, this feeling of melancholy leads to the third stage of adjustment. At this point, a freshman may become critical and start finding fault with everything.

Adjusting to College: Stockvault

But in due time, a student will eventually find the humor as he or she goes through the process. In realizing the funny side of the situation, a freshman is able to embrace college life for all its positives and negatives. Consequently, everything falls into place.

Professionals offer the following tips to help freshmen on how to deal with college life and eventually survive their first year away from home.

1. Be sure to attend classes. Without any doubt, attendance in class is a must. Though college may offer a certain degree of freedom, it does not give a freshman the right to skip class without a justified reason.

2. Get to class on time. If college should teach young adults anything, it would be punctuality. Keep in mind that professors do not take kindly to students who waste their time by coming into class after the lecture has started.

3. Practice time management. The ability to manage one’s time in college can give a freshman the advantage necessary to stay on top of the semester. It would be a good idea to buy an agenda book to jot down schedules. Fortunately, in today’s technology savvy world, keeping schedules can easily be done with an app installed on a mobile device.

4. Ask for help. Though it may be intimidating to approach other people particularly faculty personnel or staff at a university, they are there to help. Just remember to ask nicely.

5. Forget the rat race. College life is not about competing with other students to get the higher grade. Comparing oneself to others can only lead to feelings of inferiority that can intensify stress. Rather, it is best to focus on building one’s own abilities and strengths to help get through the first year with flying colors.

6. Loneliness is expected. The sudden awareness of being alone for the first time often hits many freshmen after a few weeks into the semester. Feelings of isolation often become worse during exams when the pressure builds up. Remember to seek out help from friends and to check out resources available to students on campus like a guidance counselor. Be sure to check the college catalog to be familiar with the services available to students.

7. Remember to eat healthy. Avoid the convenience of having fast food meals on a daily basis. Though these meals are handy for a busy freshman to eat on the go, it does not provide the necessary nutrients in the long run. Try to learn cooking a few simple recipes from home. Not only would this be healthy, but it is also a good way to reconnect with family.

8. Be smart when socializing. A good way to safely meet others on campus is to join an organization. Membership also helps boost credentials after college.

9. Stay positive. Even when the blues hit, it is important to maintain an optimistic attitude about matters. Wallowing in depression only makes things worse.

College life is meant to be fun and exciting but at the same time challenging and difficult. Rather than rebuff these emotions it is best to embrace these with an open mind. Be brave and enjoy the challenge it brings.

By: May Ann

Avoiding Exam Stress

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 18:05:00 +0000

Teenagers with ages between 14 and 16 are overly stressed before important exams, and GSCEs are no exception. Parents and teachers put a lot of pressure on their shoulders mostly because these exams are their ticket to pursuing A-level exams and thus get into a good college when they’re 18. How is it possible to overcome that stress? Can you score a high grade without cramming your study sessions and resorting o exhausting all-nighters? Sure you can; all you have to organize your study sessions and make the most of your revision notes.

Do you have a plan?

The key to succeed in your GSCEs is to make a revision plan. This can be hard for teenagers to understand, since they keep themselves busy with other things, but planning in advance can work like magic - especially when you’re dealing with a huge volume of information. Knowing what they have to learn will help students relax and focus on the content rather than stress themselves and that exams are excruciating and that they can’t be successfully overcome.

What should a smart revision plan contain?

To be effective, a study plan should first and foremost be an individual study plan, based on knowledge, actual competencies, and learning style of a sole student. A general study plan does not work for everybody, since students have their own personal way of studying for exams. Here’s a set of tips and tricks to help you efficiently revise what you’ve learned:

· Always take notes (use a pen and a pieces a paper and an actual notebook, not a tablet, computer, etc.) – it’s really important that you write

· Keep it structural (summarize the information using bullet points, keywords, mind-maps, flashcards)

· Use diagrams and charts to help you visualize the information

· Don’t color your study material, keep it simple and clean – coloring is actually the least effective method of studying for exams

· Ask somebody to question you on different exam related subjects (don’t go to a friend and ask for the help of your parents instead because they will be a lot more determined to help you study)

Avoiding Exam Stress: Flickr - CollegeDegrees360

Memory tricks can work miracles

Many students have problems recalling information, which is normal, especially when studying for GSCEs. Luckily, there are a lot of tricks you can use to make the whole study session stress-free:

· Remember ideas, not words

· Imagine what you’re reading

· Make diagrams or symbols to represent notions

· Choose a single key word to represent a phrase

· Read before you go to sleep and first thing in the morning

Strategies you can use to remember the information

Students should make sense of the information they’re reading for GCSE exams. You can’t expect to score a high grade through mechanical learning. It will never work. Rather than forcing yourself to remember dates, numbers, and names, it’s a lot smarter start slow in order to make the most of your exam revision session.

· Make use of your own words when you take notes so as to connect with ideas and better understand them

· Think about what you’re reading and don’t get distracted – search for differences and similarities between the information you already know and the things that still need your attention

· Organize your study material – break down your study material into sections, make spidergrams to summarize ideas and don’t forget to write by hand

· Memorize everything you’ve read and studied – the best way to remember what you’ve read is to picture images in your mind. Think about that diagram you just made, associate words with colors or names, and think logical.

There’s no point in getting stressed over GCSE exams. Yes, they might seem nerve-wracking and time consuming, but there’s no other way of pursuing A-levels unless you pass all your GCSE exams. Students are not that fond of studying when they’re in high-school. Still, acknowledging that your future depends on these tests is of the utmost importance. Begin an exam revision ahead of time, gather study guides, notes, and as much study material as possible. Allocate two hours a day for a study session, don’t be afraid to ask for help from your parents, and you’ll manage to pass exams with flying colors.

The secret to passing GCSE exams is all about balancing your time with your study session.