Zarem/Golde ORT Technical Institute

Five tips for tackling accounting classes

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Mon, 25 Nov 2013 19:49:00 +0000

Here are five tips for taking on your accounting courses, whether they’re the lower-division intros or the dreaded tax class.

1. Skim, don’t inspect.

Accounting textbooks, for the most part, are not meant to be analyzed in every detail. Read the “meat” of the chapter several times through, taking note mostly of key words, phrases, and concepts–oh, and financial statements. You’re going to be seeing those a lot in your “real” job, so get used to ‘em!

2. Three words: repetition, repetition, repetition.

If you can understand every accounting concept the first time you read about it, you might as well quit school and recreate the Big 5 with your own accounting firm. Chances are, you are not going to understand everything the first time through. Reading things over a few times will make everything so much clearer. Learn things to the point where you know them like the back of your hand and you’ll be ready for anything.

3. Stop procrastinating now–no, not later.

This may be a fairly straightforward one, but never underestimate the danger that is the “P” word. Instead of cramming your study sessions into caffeine-laced all-nighters and hair-pulling, 3-hour, pre-test run-throughs, try dividing your work up and doing a little each day. For example, say you have a week before a test. Divide up your individual topics/chapters/etc. equally by day, then do a general run-through the day before. The earlier you plan ahead, the less work you’ll have to do each day.

4. “Don’t fall behind”–really though, DON’T!

We hear our teachers say it every semester at the beginning of class, but when they say it, I’m telling you: they mean business. With accounting, the acquisition of knowledge is sequential. In other words, it’ll be difficult, if not impossible, to learn about concept “B” if you don’t have understanding of concept “A” before it. Be especially mindful of this in accounting and make certain that you understand what you’ve just learned before moving onto the next topic or chapter. The further you fall behind, the harder it’ll be for you.

5. One is the loneliest number.

This should be the easiest part: find a study buddy! Although study groups can get a little chaotic, having one solid study partner can help you in more ways than you realize. Whether you need one-on-one help with a certain concept or need notes when you miss a day from illness, a study partner can be your right-hand person for accounting. Just make sure you return the favor!

ascpastudents.wordpress.com

5 Motivational Tips to Get You Through the Day

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Tue, 19 Nov 2013 18:31:00 +0000

Your motivation is what pushed you to succeed and determines to a large degree if you are going to succeed or fail. But even the most motivated person needs a little extra help sometimes. When the going gets tough these 5 tips can help you turn the day around and get you back on track:

Focus on Your Goals

Your motivation stands in direct relationship to how clear your goals are, they are the source of your motivation. When you feel down, focus on them, visualize them and think about how great it will be once you have completed them.

Reward Yourself for Finishing Tasks

This is a great technique. Whenever you finish a task or complete a goal, give yourself a reward. It can be a cup of coffee, a 10 minute break, a weekend away…. Anything that gets you motivated. By doing this you train yourself to want to complete the goals and tasks as quickly and efficiently as possible, you will work hard to complete your goals, get the reward and move on the next. Always remember though, make sure you do the job well, you don’t want to have to go back and redo the task you already thought was finished.

Take a Short Walk

Sometimes you need a break, to clear your mind and get yourself back on track. Taking a walk is a great way to sort your thoughts and refocus.

Remember That When You Are Done, You Are Done

By this I mean that once you have done everything you need to do during the day, you are finished and can go home. That gives me a burst of motivation every time the day starts to feel long, it is up to me to make it go quickly so I can relax.

Call a Loved One for Inspiration

Sometimes we cannot do it alone. Make sure to find a friend or loved one who can help you when you need motivation, who you can call and who you know will tell you that you can do it and that they know you are great. That help really makes a big difference. If you are having a tough time, don’t let that get you down. Refocus and let yourself be all that you can be!

Action Exercises

- Set your goals:
If you haven’t already, spend some time writing down your most important long term and short term goals;

- Determine a good reward that motivates you to complete tasks and goals;

- Talk to someone you trust and ask them to be a source of motivation for you when you need it.

www.pickthebrain.com

Advice for a successful medical assistant externship

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Fri, 15 Nov 2013 21:15:00 +0000

Most medical assisting programs require students to complete externships, which can provide valuable job experience prior to beginning their careers. Externships are the portion of your medical assisting education that you spend working in a medical office while you are still in school. While your experience will vary depending upon the office in which you are placed, it’s up to you to get the most out of your externship experience and make it a success.

Look for opportunities to use your skills
You’ve spent your time in school learning the technical skills necessary to be a medical assistant, and now is your chance to put them into practice. Nothing beats real-world experience, so actively seek out opportunities to put your skills to the test. Whenever you get a chance, observe health care professionals performing procedures and make note of the techniques they use so you can use their expertise to perfect your own skills.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help
While externships do provide the opportunity to use your technical skills, they are also still a valuable part of the learning process, so don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice. If you are ever unsure of how to complete a task that has been asked of you or find it to be too challenging, ask the medical professionals you are working with to guide you and provide some tips for success. If you never ask questions when you don’t understand something, it’s unlikely that you will receive much benefit from the completion of an externship.

Discuss expectations
Before you even begin your externship, discussing expectations with your supervisor, mentor or sponsor will set you up for success. While it’s important that you take the initiative every day to get the most you can out of your externship experience, having a clear understanding of what the medical professionals you are working with hope to achieve will put you on the same page and create a more cohesive working environment.

Practice your "soft skills"
While medical assisting externships certainly present you with the opportunity to cultivate your technical expertise, they also allow you to practice ‘soft skills’ like customer service and communication. Medical assistants are partially responsible for patient care, so be aware of your body language and demeanor whenever you are in the medical office or interacting with patients.

http://carrington.edu

How To Reduce Stress While in College

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Fri, 15 Nov 2013 00:56:00 +0000

At any given point in time, most college students are stressed about something; it's just part of going to school. While having stress in your life is normal and often unavoidable, being stressed is something you can control. Follow these ten tips to learn how to keep your stress in check and how to relax when it gets to be too much.

Here's How:

Most Importantly: Don't Stress About Being Stressed
This may seem ridiculous at first, but it is listed first for a reason: when you're feeling stressed, you feel like you're on edge and everything is barely being held together. Don't beat yourself up too badly about it! It's all normal, and the best way to handle stress is to not get more stressed about . . . being stressed. If you're stressed out, admit it and figure out how to handle it. Focusing on it will only make things seem worse.
Get Some Sleep
Being in college means your sleep schedule is, most likely, far from ideal. Getting more sleep can help your mind refocus, recharge, and rebalance. This can mean a quick nap, a night when you go to bed early, or a promise to yourself to stick with a regular sleep schedule. Sometimes, one good night's sleep can be all you need to hit the ground running amidst a stressful time.
Get Some Food
Similar to your sleep habits, your eating habits may have gone by the wayside when you started school. Think about what -- and when -- you've eaten over the past few days. You may think your stress is psychological, but you could also be feeling physical stress (and the "Freshman 15") if you're not fueling your body appropriately. Go eat something balanced and healthy: fruits and veggies, whole grains, protein. Make your mama proud with what you choose for dinner tonight! Lastly, if your meal plan itself is one more thing making you stressed, learn how to pick a plan that's right for you.
Get Some Exercise
You may think that if you don't have the time to sleep and eat properly, you definitely don't have the time to exercise. Fair enough, but if you're feeling stressed, it may be that you need to squeeze it in somehow. Exercise doesn't necessarily have to involve a 2-hour, exhausting workout at the campus gym. It can mean a relaxing, 30-minute walk while listening to your favorite music. In fact, in a little over an hour, you can 1) walk 15 minutes to your favorite off-campus restaurant, 2) eat a quick and healthy meal, 3) walk back, and 4) take a power nap. Imagine how much better you'll feel!
Get Some Quiet Time
Take one moment and think: when was the last time you had some quality, quiet time alone? Personal space for students in college rarely exists. You may share your room, your bathroom, your classrooms, your dining hall, the gym, the bookstore, the library, and anywhere else you go during an average day. Finding a few moments of peace and quiet - with no cell phone, roommates, or crowds - might be just what you need. Stepping out from the crazy college environment for a few minutes can do wonders for reducing your stress.
Get Some Social Time
Have you been working on that English paper for 3 days straight? Can you even see what you're writing anymore for your Chemistry lab? You could be stressed because you're being too focused on getting things done. Don't forget that your brain is like a muscle, and even it needs a break every once in a while! Take a break and see a movie. Grab some friends and go out dancing. Hop a bus and hang out downtown for a few hours. Having a social life is an important part of your college experience, so don't be afraid to keep it in the picture when you're stressed. It could be when you need it most!
Get Some Fun
You may be stressed about one particular thing: a final paper due Monday, a class presentation due Thursday. You basically just need to sit down and plow through it. If this is the case, try to figure out how to make it a little more fun and enjoyable. Is everyone writing final papers? Agree to work together in your room for 2 hours and then order pizza together for dinner. Do a lot of your classmates have huge presentations to put together? See if you can reserve a classroom or room in the library where you can all work together and share supplies. You may just lower everyone's stress level.
Get Some Distance
You may be handling your own problems and trying to help others around you. While this can be nice for them, check in and be honest with yourself about how your helpful demeanor may be causing more stress in your life. It's okay to take a step back and focus on yourself for a little while, especially if you are stressed and your academics are at risk. After all, how can you keep helping others if you're not even in a state to help yourself? Figure out which things are causing you the most stress and how you can take a step back from each. And then, most importantly, take that step.
Get a Little Help
It can be hard to ask for help, and unless your friends are psychic, they may not know how stressed out you are. Most college students are going through the same things at the same thing, so don't feel silly if you need to just vent for 30 minutes over coffee with a friend. It may help you process out what you need to do, and help you realize that the things you are so stressed about are actually pretty manageable. If you're afraid of dumping too much on a friend, most colleges have counseling centers specifically for their students. Don't be afraid to make an appointment if you think it will help.
Get Some Perspective
College life can be overwhelming. You want to hang out with your friends, join clubs, explore off campus, join a fraternity or sorority, and be involved in the campus newspaper. It can sometimes feel like there aren't enough hours in the day . . . because there aren't. There's only so much any person can handle, but you need to remember the reason why you're in school: academics. No matter how exciting your co-curricular life can be, you won't be able to enjoy any of it if you don't pass your classes. Make sure to keep your eye on the prize and then head out and change the world!
http://collegelife.about.com

Success story of ORT's former student Alen Yousif

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Wed, 13 Nov 2013 00:06:00 +0000

I came to Zarem/Golde ORT Technical Institute in 2009 and graduated in 2010. Now I am working with PACE Company driving a small bus and helping disabled people. This school helped me a lot to improve my English and get this job. I am so happy with my job and my life. I made the right choice joining Zarem/Golde ORT Technical Institute.

Alen Yousif

How to Successfully Find Local Scholarships

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Sun, 10 Nov 2013 20:29:00 +0000

When you’re searching for college scholarships, it’s tempting to fire up the computer and spend hours reading through scholarship websites. While the Internet is an abundant source of information, don’t miss scholarship opportunities in your own backyard.

Local organizations have money available for college students, but it requires some networking and creativity to discover them. Here are some questions you can ask yourself to find scholarships in places you may never have considered:

Does my employer offer tuition reimbursement or scholarships?

Many employers offer some form of tuition assistance to eligible students. Ask your manager or human resources representative to see what’s available and if you qualify. If you are a dependent student, your parents’ employers may have scholarship opportunities, too. If you’re looking for a job, ask when you apply or interview.

What clubs or fraternal organizations are in my community?

Social organizations often have scholarship opportunities available for members and their families. You may not have to be directly affiliated with an organization to apply, so be sure to contact local civic groups and clubs to ask about scholarships.

Is there an organization nearby that relates to my field of study?

Whether you’re going into business, criminal justice, education, healthcare, technology or design, chances are there’s a professional organization or foundation dedicated to your field of study. Many of these groups offer scholarships, so it’s worth the effort to ask.

Does my faith community offer scholarships?

If you are a member of a church, synagogue, temple, mosque or other religious organization, you may be eligible for a scholarship. Ask the leader of your congregation about religious-based scholarships.

Your local scholarship search can have benefits that go far beyond your city limits. Many community groups maintain close relationships with state and national organizations, which can offer networking, educational and scholarship opportunities.

Check the telephone book, search online for local organizations, and ask your friends, family and neighbors. You never know where you’ll find a scholarship.

rasmussen.edu

ESL student Young Jun Park shares his feelings about studying at ORT

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Thu, 07 Nov 2013 18:17:00 +0000

Hello, everybody.

Let me briefly introduce myself. I am a sophomore in mechanical design engineering at the University of Chunbuk in South Korea. As soon as I was discharged from the military in July, 2013 in Korea. I got a phone call from my cousin in Northbrook, IL. She advised me to study English at ORT Technical Institute. She heard ORT has a great ESL program through ORT Korean advisor Soowon Kwon who has known her for a long time. My cousin really wants me to take advantage of good ESL school to improve my English skill. I am confident studying English at ORT will be beneficial for me. I am so excited to study English and make new friends at ORT Technical Institute.

Young Jun Park, South Korea

Speak Up! How to Survive Class as a First-Time College Student

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Sat, 02 Nov 2013 22:13:00 +0000

Taking college courses for the first time can be nerve-wracking and is often an adjustment for many people. If you’re like many other students, it’s been awhile since you’ve been in a classroom and you may find it difficult to speak up in class. Don’t feel bad – you will be able to overcome this.

Participating in class is important because it truly enhances your overall learning experience and can help increase your overall GPA, as many grades are often weighted on participation. Here are some helpful tips on getting over the fear of speaking up:

1. Try taking a class with someone you feel comfortable with.

If you do this, it will make the atmosphere a little more comfortable and you can also feed off each other in discussion. When it comes to online classes, write discussion posts then have a friend or family member review it and see if they find it interesting or intriguing. If they do, chances are someone studying the same course will.

2. Remember: You're all in it together.

It’s important to remember you are all in the classroom for the same reason: to better your future.

No one is in class to judge you or think your opinion is invalid. The more you tell yourself this, the better you will feel. Also, as many instructors say, chances are if you have a question about something so does someone else in the room.

The same goes for online students. Even if someone does not respond to a discussion post at least you were able to put your thoughts out there. There is no one sitting in front of the computer laughing at the screen because you do not have any responses.

3. Be as prepared as possible.

The more prepared for class you are, the more comfortable you will feel with speaking up.

It is easy to put off readings and not dust off your book (or turn on your e-Book) until the week of an exam. However, if you look over the chapters and keep up with the readings (even if you just skim them), you will have a better understanding of what is going to be discussed in class ahead of time. In addition, it will help you brainstorm questions and provide answers in class.

If you are more of an introvert – someone who needs time to let the information sink in and develop questions later – preparing before class will help you participate in class and allow you to think of your questions and answers in a timelier manner.

Participating in these three suggestions are three realistic ways to make your involvement in class more comfortable, and can help you achieve a higher grade.

rasmussen.edu

4 Foolproof Ways to Build Rapport with Your Instructor

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Thu, 31 Oct 2013 13:54:00 +0000

Part of succeeding in school is learning how to take advantage of the tools around you. One of your best resources is your instructor.

Your instructor is there not only to teach you the course’s material and act as an expert on the subject, but also to provoke your thoughts and understand you as an individual. However, it’s in your hands to establish a relationship with your instructor.

Building a relationship with your instructor can help you with:

1. Class participation

Even if you’re not one who often participates in class, talking to your instructor after class to discuss some of the class material or for a deeper explanation as to something you’re confused about can show you’re putting effort into the class. It will also show your instructor what you’re learning about in class is important to you, which will not only reflect on your performance in the class, but also how your instructor views your work ethics.

2. Assignments

If you build a closer relationship with your instructor, it will help when they are trying to understand your thinking on assignments. They may feel more comfortable approaching you with questions, and you will definitely benefit in the same way. Just like any other person, a instructor will understand you better the more you reach out to them.

3. Job networking

Becoming close with your instructors also allows for some connections through employers. Most instructors have a pretty extensive resume that showcases what they have done in their former careers. In fact, they may have already been down the path you are looking to take and have some resources to assist you in finding the right job.

If your instructor knows what you are seeking in a future career, and you share with them what you are looking for, they’d be more than glad to share with you any information regarding a company or a person they recommend you speak with.

4. Getting comfortable in class

Getting to know a instructor also bridges the gap between being afraid to speak your mind in class. When you have a connection with your instructor, it makes sharing your opinion, asking a question or commenting in class much easier. This also shows the instructor you are eager to engage in class, and understanding a topic comes so much easier when you are comfortable with those around you.

Building a rapport with a instructor can greatly assist you in these four ways, as well as help you earn a higher grade. What experiences have you had with instructors that have improved your academic goals or career life? Share with us by commenting below.

rasmussen.edu

How to Stay Organized Amidst the Chaos of Balancing Work, Life and School

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Wed, 30 Oct 2013 19:45:00 +0000

Have you ever stepped back and realized that life is extremely chaotic and we are constantly going, going, going? From working overtime to making dinner to the kids’ soccer games, the list can go on and on.
Now throw studying in the mix if you are pursuing a degree; the feeling can at first be overwhelming.
In order to stay afloat in a hectic world, organization is key. It will be helpful to utilize the following tips so you adopt a systematic approach instead of just flying by the seat of your pants.
It’s interesting to note that organized people are characterized by the following traits: efficient, punctual and reliable. Wouldn’t we all wish to be like that? By implementing some simple strategies, someone who considers themselves disorganized will be able to become a more efficient and effective person.

First and foremost, evaluate your current organization strategies.

Do you compile a daily to-do list?
What does your desk look like?
Do you have a pile of papers lying around your house in no particular order?

Assessing how you prioritize your daily activities and tasks will help determine whether you are working efficiently or against yourself. Also, throw out any old/outdated papers or file them away if you absolutely cannot part ways with them.

Second, establish a plan.
Prioritizing and time management are vital skills to implement when creating a plan. Prioritizing helps decrease that overwhelming feeling, and it’s an effective way to determine what tasks are truly time sensitive and need attention immediately versus the tasks that are less important.
Additionally, prioritizing should mean creating checklists, which ultimately allow you to stay on task (time management) and not get sidetracked by the inevitable daily distractions.
When you’ve finally established a plan and developed some strategies, it’s time to utilize them. Don’t let your hard work go to waste; think about how much more effective and valuable you will be. Most importantly, it’s you who has the opportunity to direct your life, so try to do it in the way that is most beneficial to you.

Success story of Djamel Kerbouche

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Mon, 28 Oct 2013 12:57:00 +0000

Computer Support & Networking Technology ProgramGraduate

I started my 1^stjob out of school was working 20-30 hours (part-time) for Café Descante as Store Manager/IT Tech Support. My IT Tech Support duties included: computer knowledge, upgrading software, troubleshooting, technology support, computer maintenance, and in store purchasing orders/inventory.

I still continued applying daily a minimum of 2 applications per day in search of a higher paying and full-time IT position. I researched and applied to jobs daily through Craigslist, careerbuilder, and other websites that Career Services recommended. A few months later I was offered a full-time IT Agent position.

I am very happy working downtown Chicago in the field of my studies.

Djamel

Fall 2013 Job Fair. Press Release

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Fri, 18 Oct 2013 23:12:00 +0000

On Friday, October 11, 2013, Zarem/Golde ORT Technical Institute had the pleasure

of hosting its second job fair of the year at its campus in Skokie. Sixteen employers

were present to discuss their current employment opportunities with potential

candidates. Among the companies participating in the event were Northshore

University Health System, PACE Bus Service, AAA – North Suburban

Insurance, Away Staffing Services, Inc., Chipotle, Famous Footwear, as well

as representatives of smaller, local businesses, including KonnectIT Group, Inc.,

Homewatch Caregivers, Express Employment Professionals, and Rimland

Services. The fair was a big success, drawing attention from over 50 job seekers. All

of the attendees had an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the variety of

available positions and begin the application process—both in person and online. The

representatives from the participating companies worked tirelessly in their recruitment

efforts, detailing their vacancies and describing the requirements, benefits and future

opportunities related to their specific job availability.

We are delighted to be able to provide this wonderful community service event to

employers and job seekers, not only our current and past students, but all interested

members of the local community to come together in a friendly, professional

environment. We are looking forward to hearing the success stories of successful

placements! Stay tuned for details as to our next Job Fair in 2014!

For additional information about Zarem/Golde ORT Technical Institute, please visit

our website at: www.zg-ort.edu.

Congratulations to our Medical Assistant Graduate - Merideth!

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Tue, 15 Oct 2013 16:13:00 +0000

We have some exciting news to share:

Our Medical Assistant Certificate Program graduate, Merideth P., has started a new job working full-time at Mercy Hospital and Medical Center as a Laboratory Assistant. She works in the lab doing phlebotomy and specimen processing.

She is preparing for an additional certification exam so that she will be able to work in all sections of the lab.

Congratulations Merideth!

Thank You Letter of ORT's Medical Assistant Graduate

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Tue, 08 Oct 2013 20:50:00 +0000

Through family I was referred to the school. I was working as a part-time hair stylist and wanted a career change. I signed up in Feb 2012 for the Medical Assistant Certificate Program. I have graduated in January 2013 and within 2 months was working in the field.

I really appreciated all the help my instructor, Dr. Nick, gave me with my studies. I had him for most of my core classes and he also provided me with extra assistance preparing for the various certifications. It was very important for me to become certified as soon as possible. I am now certified as a Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) and EKG Technician (CET).

I work in the field as a Clinical Research Assistant/MA Coordinator for an Evanston Clinic. My duties include everything that I learned in the MA program (patient care, administrative duties, lab work, phlebotomy, EKG, and also research coordinating).

I found my job through Craigslist and sent them a professional email stating that I was interested in volunteer work as a MA. Within a couple of weeks, I went from volunteering to a paid position.

Thank you,
Anastasia

How To Reduce Stress While in College

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Mon, 07 Oct 2013 16:03:00 +0000

Most Importantly: Don't Stress About Being Stressed
This may seem ridiculous at first, but it is listed first for a reason: when you're feeling stressed, you feel like you're on edge and everything is barely being held together. Don't beat yourself up too badly about it! It's all normal, and the best way to handle stress is to not get more stressed about... being stressed. If you're stressed out, admit it and figure out how to handle it. Focusing on it will only make things seem worse.
Get Some Sleep
Being in college means your sleep schedule is, most likely, far from ideal. Getting more sleep can help your mind refocus, recharge, and rebalance. This can mean a quick nap, a night when you go to bed early, or a promise to yourself to stick with a regular sleep schedule. Sometimes, one good night's sleep can be all you need to hit the ground running amidst a stressful time.
Get Some Food
Similar to your sleep habits, your eating habits may have gone by the wayside when you started school. Think about what -- and when -- you've eaten over the past few days. You may think your stress is psychological, but you could also be feeling physical stress (and the "Freshman 15") if you're not fueling your body appropriately. Go eat something balanced and healthy: fruits and veggies, whole grains, protein. Make your mama proud with what you choose for dinner tonight! Lastly, if your meal plan itself is one more thing making you stressed, learn how to pick a plan that's right for you.
Get Some Exercise
You may think that if you don't have the time to sleep and eat properly, you definitely don't have the time to exercise. Fair enough, but if you're feeling stressed, it may be that you need to squeeze it in somehow. Exercise doesn't necessarily have to involve a 2-hour, exhausting workout at the campus gym. It can mean a relaxing, 30-minute walk while listening to your favorite music. In fact, in a little over an hour, you can 1) walk 15 minutes to your favorite off-campus restaurant, 2) eat a quick and healthy meal, 3) walk back, and 4) take a power nap. Imagine how much better you'll feel!
Get Some Quiet Time
Take one moment and think: when was the last time you had some quality, quiet time alone? Personal space for students in college rarely exists. You may share your room, your bathroom, your classrooms, your dining hall, the gym, the bookstore, the library, and anywhere else you go during an average day. Finding a few moments of peace and quiet - with no cell phone, roommates, or crowds - might be just what you need. Stepping out from the crazy college environment for a few minutes can do wonders for reducing your stress.
Get Some Social Time
Have you been working on that English paper for 3 days straight? Can you even see what you're writing anymore for your Chemistry lab? You could be stressed because you're being too focused on getting things done. Don't forget that your brain is like a muscle, and even it needs a break every once in a while! Take a break and see a movie. Grab some friends and go out dancing. Hop a bus and hang out downtown for a few hours. Having a social life is an important part of your college experience, so don't be afraid to keep it in the picture when you're stressed. It could be when you need it most!
Get Some Fun
You may be stressed about one particular thing: a final paper due Monday, a class presentation due Thursday. You basically just need to sit down and plow through it. If this is the case, try to figure out how to make it a little more fun and enjoyable. Is everyone writing final papers? Agree to work together in your room for 2 hours and then order pizza together for dinner. Do a lot of your classmates have huge presentations to put together? See if you can reserve a classroom or room in the library where you can all work together and share supplies. You may just lower everyone's stress level.
Get Some Distance
You may be handling your own problems and trying to help others around you. While this can be nice for them, check in and be honest with yourself about how your helpful demeanor may be causing more stress in your life. It's okay to take a step back and focus on yourself for a little while, especially if you are stressed and your academics are at risk. After all, how can you keep helping others if you're not even in a state to help yourself? Figure out which things are causing you the most stress and how you can take a step back from each. And then, most importantly, take that step.
Get a Little Help
It can be hard to ask for help, and unless your friends are psychic, they may not know how stressed out you are. Most college students are going through the same things at the same thing, so don't feel silly if you need to just vent for 30 minutes over coffee with a friend. It may help you process out what you need to do, and help you realize that the things you are so stressed about are actually pretty manageable. If you're afraid of dumping too much on a friend, most colleges have counseling centers specifically for their students. Don't be afraid to make an appointment if you think it will help.
Get Some Perspective
College life can be overwhelming. You want to hang out with your friends, join clubs, explore off campus, join a fraternity or sorority, and be involved in the campus newspaper. It can sometimes feel like there aren't enough hours in the day . . . because there aren't. There's only so much any person can handle, but you need to remember the reason why you're in school: academics. No matter how exciting your co-curricular life can be, you won't be able to enjoy any of it if you don't pass your classes. Make sure to keep your eye on the prize and then head out and change the world!

http://collegelife.about.com

10 Social Media Must-Dos For College Students

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Thu, 03 Oct 2013 15:35:00 +0000

School’s back in session; now that summer’s over, most college students will be seriously entrenched in classes, social life, and hopefully saving some brain cells for thinking about their future career.

Before assignments start piling up, take a pause to read these essential social media tips to help you save some cash and for making that transition past the commencement gates easier:

1. Undo The Evidence Of Your Summer Fun On Facebook

Did you have a great summer? Maybe your future lover doesn’t want to see all the steamy details. “Yes, you’re the only one,” works better when there aren’t hometown flings on your Facebook timeline. Before school gets back to full swing, you should take some time to review your timeline. Do the pictures paint the story you want to tell your college buds? Set any undesirable posts to “Me Only” so you can keep the memories without the shame. Try using a social media monitoring service call Reppler.com.

2. Ask Your Friends About Their Summer Jobs

Ever hear the expression, “most jobs come from your network”? Well your college friends are your network, and will become extremely valuable connections for you after you graduate. Find out what your friends did, where they worked, over the summer. Could be they have connections at a company you might want an introduction into later on. What could be more flattering than to receive a Facebook message from a friend asking you how your summer job went and what you did there! Be interesting by being interested.

3. Sell Your Old Textbooks On Half.com

The textbook industry has it all figured out. They put the edition and year on each book, and then get the classes to require the newest edition. But only very rarely are the changes from year to year that significant. Greek history 2013 is probably not too far off from Greek history 2014! Your college bookstore won’t give you more than 20% of retail on your books. But if you sell your books on Half or Amazon, you could get over 50% of the book’s value.

4. Rent Your New Textbooks On Kindle

There is something nice about thumbing through a book. But there is also something nice about paying only $19 to rent a digital textbook instead of paying $100 for ten pounds of lower back pain to carry around all semester. With Kindle, you can take notes, highlight, and even Tweet favorite passages. Consider renting your required reading instead of killing trees this year.

5. Update Your Summer Job On LinkedIn

The longer you wait to include your summer work on your LinkedIn profile, the more you’re going to forget the details of what you did. Sure, it might not have been a dream job, but it still counts as work experience. When I was looking for work after my MBA program, I’ll never forget one interview question that took me by surprise, “What kind of work did you do when you were an undergrad?”

The interviewer said that nothing shows work-ethic more than when a student spends their summer earning their own money rather than spending their parent’s money. So don’t undervalue what you’ve done this summer. Record your work experience in your LinkedIn profile. Also, try adding some of these new elements to your profile: The New LinkedIn Profile Improvement Tool.

6. Get Summer Job Recommendations

Not only will you forget the details of your job once school starts, but your boss will probably forget about how much they liked you. With online job seeking, one of the most powerful elements you bring to the table is what other people think about you. In years past, this used to be a very formal process. You’d have to request a letter of recommendation from your boss. Then they’d ask you to write it and they’d sign it. These days, all you need is a few short paragraphs on your LinkedIn profile. These notes from past managers will be assets that will serve you well once you start your career search.

7. Use Mint To Budget Your Expenses

Ever ask yourself why credit card companies promote their plastic so relentlessly on your campus? It’s because they know many students will use their cards and not pay back the debt for years. Then they can charge you fees and interest, while they fly in their private jets. Stop funding private jets (unless it’s yours). Use an easy and free budgeting tool to make sure you don’t overspend this semester. Mint.com is a free financial management website that aggregates your bank accounts and credit cards into one place.

8. Google Yourself To See Your Online Reputation

Go ahead. I dare you. Our generation has the unique advantage of being online from an early age. This means you’ve been building an online reputation whether you know it or not. Once your online reputation gets a blemish, it’s rather hard to fix. Use a tool called BrandYourself.com to grade your online reputation and get some free tips for improving it.

9. Manage Your Schedule With Google Calendar Features

I haven’t use a paper planner in years. I know some people love them. But when you have all of your classes, clubs and meetings in one Google Calendar, your schedule is everywhere you need it to be: on your phone and computer. You don’t have to shade out three months of classes, only to find out after a week that you don’t like your professor and will not take that class after all. Changing a calendar event is simply a matter of deleting, not erasing. You can even put an inspiring photo of yourself at the beach as the backdrop to help ease some of that mid-semester stress. If your school hasn’t switched to the Google platform, use your Gmail account.

10. Use RateMyProfessor.com to Save Yourself

My $100,000 life lesson was, your education is only as good as the professors who teach your classes. I don’t care what university you go it, if your professor is tired, burnt out or just plain uninspired; your semester will be hell. I’ve been to community college classes with the most enthusiastic professors I’d ever seen. I’ve been to Ivy League classes with a washed up professor who could put coffee to sleep. After you register for the class because you think the title is interesting, head on over to RateMyProfessor.com to make sure the professor can deliver.

www.careerealism.com

Want a Job at Graduation? Bring a DIY Attitude to Career Planning

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Mon, 30 Sep 2013 13:14:00 +0000

As you head into college this Fall, your focus should be on creating your future career.

“But wait!” you say. “College is not just about getting a job to make money; it’s about discovering passions, learning to think critically and becoming an independent adult!”

True. However, attending college today requires a different mindset than when your parents went to school. While your mom and dad could graduate without direction or serious planning and still be confident they could live the American dream, in today’s economy, students don’t have it so easy.

You need to take matters into your own hands. You need to bring a DIY (do it yourself) mentality to career planning—even as early as your senior year in high school.

Follow these four steps, and when you graduate, you’ll find yourself with more than a cap and gown; you’ll be on your way to landing a great job in your ideal career path:

1. Learn Which Careers Fit You

Career planning fits perfectly as part of the college selection and application process. Just as you evaluate your interests and passions to select the right school, you should also take this opportunity to consider different career paths and use those paths in your college selection process.

Thankfully, finding information and resources to identify which careers might make the most sense is easier than ever. The key is to find an engaging way to bring those resources and tools together to make a real impact on your college years. As with any endeavor, complementing online research with individualized guidance can be vital, so turn to the wisdom of parents, family and friends to fill in gaps in your career understanding.

Just keep in mind that not all resources for career assistance are created equal—whether they be a website or an industry pro; finding the right resource is half the battle.

2. Create a College Roadmap

With this more focused career lens based on your interests and skills (or desired skills), you’ll be able to identify suitable careers for which you can easily build a tailored college roadmap beyond just choosing a generic major.

And if you can create that college roadmap as early as possible, even before setting foot on campus, it will be that much easier to select appropriate majors and courses, find the right extracurricular activities (clubs, speaker series, athletics, etc.) and internships and refine your career focus.

3. Set Milestones

Roadmap in hand, identify annual milestones to hit as you advance toward graduation. For example, while conventional wisdom might say that your freshman and sophomore years should be filled with basic college requirements like “rocks for jocks” (a.k.a. Geology 101), you may instead want to load your schedule with more skill-centered courses to have a leg up on landing great internships earlier in your academic career.

These early internships will not only help build attractive and practical skill sets, but also help you further refine your career trajectory. That experience will lead to a higher likelihood of landing great job offers at graduation.

4. Be Open to Change

The last step to avoid unemployment (or underemployment) at graduation is both the easiest and the scariest: be open to change. Growth and self-discovery are fundamental parts of the college experience, and there’s little doubt your priorities and interests will change. If this happens, adapt your roadmap so that past decisions don’t push you toward a less-than-perfect career path.

Just remember to always give serious thought before you make a change. The less disciplined you are, the longer it will take to figure out your career trajectory, the larger the deficit you will face and the harder it will be to get the right job.

While you have just four steps ahead of you, it certainly won’t be easy. But little is easy for today’s college student facing long odds due to high unemployment and skyrocketing tuition.

That said, if you buckle down and bring a DIY mentality to career planning, you can identify the right career path and collect the passions, skills and knowledge required to be an insanely attractive candidate when recruiters hit campus.

youtern.com

How To Ask for a Recommendation Letter

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Sun, 22 Sep 2013 21:25:00 +0000

Asking for a letter of recommendation can be tricky. You may need one for graduate school, for a scholarship, or even for a job. But you're not sure whom to ask or how best to approach someone about writing a letter of recommendation.
By following the steps below, however, you should be able to set yourself up for getting a strong letter of recommendation from someone who can really speak to your strengths. (Because no one wants a weak letter of recommendation that was obviously put together at the last minute, right?)

Here's How:

Try to build a relationship early with a professor or other mentor. If you know you want to go to medical school, start getting to know a professor or two as soon as you can when you're in college. You may also want to consider working in an academic department, lab, or library where you can start building connections. The more you get to know someone, the better they can speak about your strengths.

When you do ask, ask in person using very specific language. Try asking: "Would you feel comfortable writing me a strong letter of recommendation for (insert position/school/etc.)?" You want to make sure you get a good letter, not just any letter. And, while you may be a little nervous asking this in person, consider which is worse: having a moment or two of awkwardness if the person says "no," or having a bad letter of recommendation accompany all your job or graduate school materials.

Follow up soon after (within a day or two) with details and the same language. Send an email or leave a voice mail, thanking your recommender for agreeing to write a strong letter of recommendation to ABC place by XYZ date. Additionally, send your recommender (via email or hard copy) materials they may need:

A copy of your resume
Pre-addressed and stamped envelopes for them to mail the letter(s) in
Information on the program or job you are applying for
Contact information for whom the letter needs to be sent/addressed to
Deadline by which the materials need to be sent

Follow up before the deadline to make sure things are on track. Just like you, your recommender may sometimes wait until the last minute or forget about an upcoming deadline. Send a friendly email, leave a voice mail, or stop by in person and see if they need anything additional from you in order to get your letter sent on time. Doing so can be a great way to prevent any last-minute problems while also serving as a gentle reminder about the upcoming deadline.

Send a thank-you note. It may sound old-fashioned, but sending a thank-you note is a must. Writing letters of recommendation take a lot of time, and you should let your recommender know how grateful you are for their efforts.

Call the graduate school, job, scholarship fund, etc., to make sure your materials were received. Sometimes, the unexpected happens: things get lost in the mail, lost in an office, or mislabeled. Make sure your letter has arrived at its intended destination so that your materials can be processed as soon as possible.

One last note: don't expect to see your letter of recommendation. No matter how much you may want to see what your recommender wrote, just let it go. Any letter you include in an application packet should have a signature across the envelope seal; anything your recommender sent in on their own probably won't cross your desk either. Trust that your work has paid off and that your recommender wrote a great letter (which is what you asked for, right?) - even if you never get to see it.

http://collegelife.about.com/

How to Relax over College Holiday Breaks

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Fri, 20 Sep 2013 17:40:00 +0000

Shifting from the Chaos of the Semester Often Takes a Little Bit of Work

With every college semester comes stress for college students: Homework. Papers. Midterms. Managing a social life. Managing your finances. And last but not least: Finals.

Once the semester ends, however, how can you relax and unwind?

Finish any homework early. If you have papers, research, or other academic work to finish over the break, finish it relatively early. Once you get everything done, your mind will really be able to relax and let go.
Take time to reflect on last semester. It may seem silly, but even a few hours of critical thinking about what went well -- and what didn't -- last semester will help clear your mind and get you ready for next semester.
Take time to reflect on next semester. Thinking about what you want to do next semester -- managing your time better, exercising, meeting more people -- can help you be mentally ready when the next semester starts. And planning on ways things will be better can help eliminate stress around what the future will bring.
Do things that aren't goal-oriented. During the semester, you probably have fifteen things going on at the same time, all of which are goal-oriented: doing homework so you can write that paper or lab report. Reading that article so you can contribute to class discussion or a group project. As a break for you mind, read something just to read it. Attend an event without taking notes. Let your brain relax and enjoy.
Mentally let yourself relax. You've been going at such a fast pace during the semester that your brain may need to be reminded that it's actually okay not to be running a million miles an hour. Give your brain the permission to veg.
Volunteer. Volunteering is always good for getting some perspective, always good for your spirit, always good for people in need. Conclusion: it's always good. Try it.
Connect with your support networks. If you're at home over a break, connect with the systems that support you the best. Friends, family, a familiar hangout, your church/temple/mosque: they all help connect you to what's important and, consequently, let the stress slip away.

http://collegelife.about.com

ORT is saving lives, one pint at a time!

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Wed, 18 Sep 2013 21:46:00 +0000

Zarem/Golde ORT Technical Institute, in partnership with the American Red Cross, is sponsoring its first Annual Blood Drive. The Blood Drive will be held on Thursday, October 17,2013, from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm at 5440 Fargo Ave, Skokie, IL 60077. Presenting donors will receive a ticket good for FREE admission for two to Chicago’s Laugh Factory (restrictions apply).

To make an appointment to donate, please contact La Norra Dennis at 847-324-5588 Ext. 30, or Lndennis@zg-ort.edu. Walk-ins are welcomed, but note that a photo ID will be required for all donations. Please remember to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water prior to donating.

The need for blood donation is critical and we encourage all who can to donate. The need is constant, the gratification is instant!

8 Steps to Strong Time Management for College Students

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Mon, 16 Sep 2013 03:09:00 +0000

Within the first few days of starting college, many students quickly learn that managing their time is one of the most challenging -- and difficult -- aspects of being in school. With so much to do and keep track of, strong time management skills can make all the difference.

1. Get and use a calendar. It can be a paper calendar. It can be your cell phone. It can be a PDA. No matter what kind it is, though, make sure you have one.

2. Write down everything. Write down everything in one place. (Having multiple calendars just gives you more to do amidst an already tight schedule.) Schedule when you plan to sleep, when you are going to do your laundry, when you're going to call your parents. The crazier your schedule gets, the more important this becomes.

3. Schedule time to relax. Don't forget to schedule in time to relax and breathe. Just because your calendar goes from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. doesn't mean you can.

4. Keep trying new systems. If your cell phone calendar isn't big enough, buy a paper one. If your paper one keeps getting torn, try a PDA. If you have too many things written down each day, try color-coding to help simplify. Very few college students make it through their programs without some kind of calendaring system; keep trying until you find one that works for you.

5. Allow for flexibility. Things inevitably come up that you weren't expecting. You may not have known that your roommate's birthday is this week, and you certainly don't want to miss the celebrations! Leave room in your calendar so that you can move things around a little when needed.

6. Plan ahead. Do you have a large research paper due the last week of the semester? Work backward in your calendar and figure out how much time you need to write it, how much time you'll need to research it, and how much time you'll need to pick your topic. If you think you'll need six weeks for the entire project, work backward from the due date and schedule the time into your calendar before it's too late.

7. Plan for the unexpected. Sure, you just might be able to pull off two papers and a presentation during midterms week. But what happens if you catch the flu the night you're supposed to be pulling the all-nighter? Expect the unexpected so you don't have to spend more unplanned time trying to fix your mistakes.

8. Schedule rewards in. Your midterms week is a nightmare, but it will all be over Friday by 2:30. Schedule a fun afternoon and a nice dinner out with some friends; your brain will need it, and you can relax knowing that you're not supposed to be doing anything else.

http://collegelife.about.com

10 Simple Steps To Get Hired At Your First Pharmacy Technician Job! A MUST-READ!

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Sat, 14 Sep 2013 03:57:00 +0000

This is what many people would consider an EPIC post.
One of the most difficult things many fellow pharmacy assistants often encounter is the lack of jobs openings, and the fact that every job often has many competitors. So what does a fresh graduate do or say to make sure he gets the position? Read on…

1. Enter With Confidence, And Exit With Confidence.
If there is any tip I can give you on how to get ANY job, this above all else matters. Be confident, despite how nervous you are. Take a Tums if your stomach is growling. Look your potential boss in the eye. Shake his/her hand in a firm, strong way–before and after the interview. Smile, and keep your eyes on them at all times. Let your eyes be a reflection of your confidence and joy. Never get distracted by your surroundings either. Keep your focus on him/her alone. Always listen to what he/she says, and in the end, make sure that you leave his/her office with the same confidence you had coming in–even if you get rejected for the position. A weak exit (a sigh, slumping back, and weak handshake) will only re-affirm your interviewer’s decision not to hire you–while a strong, confident exit will make them second guess themselves as to why.

2. Don’t Be Afraid To Walk Away.
This is the #1 reason why many pharmacy assistants make so little money–they feel that if they don’t take that initial offer, they’re doomed and that they’ll never find a job offer again. False. You ALWAYS have a choice–use that choice wisely. If the pharmacists’ offer is downright insulting, feel free to politely walk away–but do it in a professional manner. For example:
Boss: “Okay, Mr.Derp, I can see that you’re qualified, how does $13 an hour sound like?
You: “I’m sorry Mr.Herpaderp, but I feel that your offer does not justify the benefits I know I can provide to your company, so I’m afraid I’ll have to pass up this otherwise great opportunity.”
Either the pharmacists lets you leave, or he will ask you to stay and negotiate.

3. When The Negotiation Table Opens, Take Advantage.
And when I say take advantage, don’t just demand things to be given to you simply because you believe you deserve it. That is a sure-fire way to NOT get the job. Instead, when the boss opens the negotiation table, think of it as a win-win situation. Why? Because when a potential employer opens up the negotiation table, odds are he/she really wants you to join his/her team. That upon itself means that 99% of the time, the job is yours. Use that to your advantage.
Going back to our previous scenario:
Boss: I see…I’m sorry you found my offer wasn’t enough. Maybe we can work something out.
You: I am very much interested–what did you have in mind?

4. Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For More–But Don’t Overdo It.
When asking for more money, don’t just think about what would benefit you. Sure, everyone would love to start at $25 an hour–but is it realistic? Fact of the matter is, even a hospital-employed pharmacy assistant doesn’t start at $25–and hospitals are one of the most generous employers. Just remember that an employee-employer relationship goes both ways; both parties have to benefit, and both parties have to be able to sustain that professional relationship. For example, unionized work environments such as Safeway have strict, union-enforced pay ceilings, based on your level of experience. Other more mainstream retail pharmacies such as Shopper’s Drug Mart do have pay ceilings, but the space in between the minimum wage and the ceiling is where it’s fair game. Likewise, your small, neighborhood independent pharmacy may not be able to offer you a higher wage. As Walter White of Breaking Bad said: Tread Lightly.
Back to our scenario:
Boss: Well, Mr. Derp, as you may know, Shopper’s Drug Mart is a well-established company, and our pharmacy assistants make $4 more than standard provincial minimum wage. Don’t you think that is more than fair?
You: I am totally aware and I fully understand, Mr. Herpaderp. But I believe that the role of a pharmacy assistant, and the level of responsibility that it entails to keep our clients healthy and satisfied, is simply above and beyond your offer of $13 an hour–given the skills and abilities I can bring to your organization, I believe a $15 per hour rate is justified.

5. Offer A Guarantee–And Back It Up.
One of the greatest things consumers have at our disposal is the “money back guarantee” that so many businesses offer nowadays. Why? Because it assures us that in case the product is not up to par, that we can return it and get our money back. While a money-back guarantee is not common in the workplace and employment scenario, offering a guarantee of some sorts will oftentimes put many employers at ease. Not only that, but a guarantee is a sign of dedication and quality: There is a reason 99% of all guarantees start with “If you are not fully satisfied, simply return…”–because those companies stand by the quality of their product. And you should be able to say the same thing about yourself. Make him/her believe why you’re worth what you’re asking for.
Boss: “Whoa, now hold on, $15 an hour seems a bit too much from someone just starting out. In fact, many of my senior technicians didn’t even start at $15 an hour. Why should I even give you that much money?”
You: “I understand that what I am asking for may be a bit different from what you may have been used to, Mr. Herpaderp, but there is a reason that I believe I am worth $15 an hour. While I do understand that it may be a bit higher than what most of your senior techs started out with back in the day, it is because the training that I have is current, modern, and aligns with what the CPA expects from it’s pharmacy technicians/assistants. Aside from that, I am an open slate, a fresh mind–You can mold me and make sure that the work I do will be the work you want to see, almost as if you made it yourself. And, let’s not forget too that the rate of inflation and increased standards of living will definitely create a rift between your senior tech’s starting salary back then, to what it is now. In fact, I guarantee that you’ll love having me as a part of your team that if I have not performed my duties in accordance to your expectations, you won’t have to pay me for a full day of work, and I personally will leave myself.
Boss: Wow, you’re really confident with your skills and the benefit you’ll bring my company that you’re willing to put this job on the line?
You: Yes–Because I know I Can Deliver.

6. Money Is Not The Measure Of Everything–Try To Win Not Just The Money
While ultimately, your goal will be to make as much money possible within this industry, also remember that not every perk or benefit should be measured in dollars. In fact, oftentimes negotiating can easily be swayed to your benefit by dropping a dollar and picking up a perk instead. So if a potential employer begins to offer you non-financial compensation, don’t be afraid to consider it. Likewise, if there is a non-financial perk or option you would like to have, don’t be afraid to bring it to the table in a casual, non-threatening way.
Back to you and your potential boss, Mr.Herpaderp:
Boss: “I see on your resume that you are an avid surfer, Mr.Derp, and that you also love spending time with your kids.”
You: “Yes indeed I do.”
Boss: “I see. What if, instead of $15 an hour, I’ll start you at $13.50, give you full family benefits, and a 2 week vacation during the summer months. How does that sound?”
You: “That does sound amazing, but how about this: You can start me off at $13.75, with full family benefits, and instead of 2 weeks during the summer, a guaranteed 1 week vacation during Christmas week? That way, I can fill in for the rest of my other colleagues who would want to travel around or outside of the country in the summer months, and they can fill in for me during the holidays? That way everyone is happy.”

7. Make Your Offers Reasonable–Not Good, Great, But Reasonable.
This is a trick I learned from the CEO of one of the companies I used to work for. When you add the phrase “Doesn’t that sound reasonable to you?” to any offer, it will not elicit a straight up “no” answer–rather, and more often than not, it will elicit a positive response–especially when the person you are talking to is as educated and academically intelligent (most doctors and healthcare professionals are left-brain thinkers–they use logic and reason more than fantasy and imagination). And for a logical thinker that uses reason, saying something is “reasonable’ allows them to process any doubt into a positive–after all, it is reasonable, it is justifiable.
You: “See Mr. Herpaderp–my offer benefits my colleagues, benefits me, and most importantly, benefits you–it’s a win-win situation. Doesn’t that sound reasonable?”
Boss: “Yes, well, indeed, you are correct. I suppose that is a good offer.”

8. Humanize Yourself
This is one of the worst things I have both done and see others do–that is, become robots who literally just spew out a resume from their mouth when asked questions. 99% of pharmacists barely care what’s on your resume. Rather, many pharmacists (and many employers) nowadays look at a person’s human qualities and personality. Fact-based exams get replaced with behavioral questions that are often repetitive. It’s about you as a person, and how you will fit in with your employer, your colleagues, and most importantly, your customers. So don’t be afraid to laugh at a joke. Talk about your kids, your life, and what matters to you–but only in moderation. You’re there to get a job, not just to make friends. If asked for a story, don’t be afraid to draw a personal story.

9. Don't Ask For The Job--Own It.

An interview is like a sales pitch–instead of selling a product, you’re selling yourself. And just like in any sales demo, the point will come where the presenter–in this case, you–will be asking the members of the audience if they liked the product, and then you’d ask them to buy the product. In this situation, you should NEVER ask if your potential employer would hire you; again, this shows your lack of confidence in yourself and your abilities, and you’ll most likely receive the dreaded “Don’t Call Us, We’ll Call You”–which often means “No, we’re not interested”.
What you need to do is OWN the job. OWN in the sense that you show your potential employer that the paperwork and further questions are just a formality, that the job is already yours, like so:
Boss: “Well that offer does sound reasonable…”
You: “Fantastic! Would you like me to start on Monday?”
Many employers would be taken aback by such a response, but from my personal experience, it will either elicit a laugh, reinforce how zealous and dedicated you are, or even better, a counteroffer–in this scenario, possibly a start date in a week or so.

10. Emphasize NOT What You Can Do For Your Potential Boss, But Rather, What You Can Do For His Customers.
The reason why this isn’t #1 is because I know many would be looking at this post (first and last position.) This, besides #1, is the most important advice I can give you. Let’s face it: while your potential employer may be the one paying your bills, it’s the customers and the government that will be paying the pharmacy. In the interview, emphasize what you can do for his/her customers–how you’ll make his/her customers happy. The pharmacist could care less if you can compound faster, can search for bottles quicker, or create a website–All those duties he can accomplish himself. But when you tell a potential employer of the ways you can make his customers happy, how you can cut down wait times, or how you can do the deliveries by yourself to help ease up any scared customers who may be afraid to open their windows–that will surely grab his attention. After all, a pharmacist’ bloodline is the community he serves.

And there you have it! These 10 simple tips will guarantee that you find a job as a pharmacy assistant wherever you go. Just always do your best each and every time, from job hunting, to the interview, and when you finally become a Pharmacy Assistant. Good luck and all the best!

http://pharmacytechtraining101.com

Fall 2013 Job Fair

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Thu, 12 Sep 2013 17:53:00 +0000

Zarem/Golde ORT Technical Institute will host its Fall 2013 Job Fair on Friday, October 11 from 11am – 2pm on campus in Skokie, IL. We will match experienced candidates – our own graduates, high school students, college graduates, unemployed, and career transitioning job seekers from the community – with employers who are actively hiring. Bring plenty of resumes and dress for success. Admission is FREE.

Employers from the following fields will be represented:

• Accounting

• Healthcare

• Hospitality

• Manufacturing & Industrial

• Retail

• Warehouse

and IT…

The Fall 2013 Job Fair is FREE and OPEN to the public.

***ATTENTION EMPLOYERS***

Registration for companies is FREE, deadline for submission is October 8, 2013.

Please RSVP to careerservices@zg-ort.edu or by calling 847-324-5588.

Help us employ Illinois!

7 Secrets to Becoming a Graphic Design Superstar

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Thu, 12 Sep 2013 01:29:00 +0000

Every new designer aspires to be the best. However, this doesn’t come easy. You not only have to work hard, but you also have to develop good artistic, marketing and communicative skills. You need to know where to market your skills and how to capture the client’s interest. There are hundreds of tips and tricks but I would like to share with you just seven great secrets to becoming a graphic design superstar. The best designers understand these secrets and this is why they are the BEST.

1. Communicate, Relate, Share

Become a member of a graphic design community and interact with other like-minded designers. Such communities, forums and social gatherings help you to meet new people, share ideas, knowledge and grow as a professional. This is the best way to get maximum exposure, creating professional relations and gaining abundant knowledge regarding the design field.

2. Expand, Improvise, Adapt

Being a good graphic designer means being flexible and adaptable. Do not limit yourself to just one field. Expand your skills and learn about various spheres of digital designing. This will help you in acquiring a strong client base, while honing your expertise. Improvise on your design style by learning to work on multiple graphic programs, including 2D and 3D modes. Make yourself an “in-demand” designer, catering to any sector.

3. Evolve, Learn, Update

You can never say, “I know it all.” The best designers are constantly learning. Every day you can learn new tricks and tips, explore new strategies and get brand new ideas. Stay updated with the latest tutorials, design ideas and software. But don’t forget to manage your time. The more updated you are and the more versatile you become, you will automatically be wanted by business owners.

4. Read, Read, Read

Read and get in depth knowledge about color psychology, design concepts, typography, trends and the latest software. Graphic designing is not wild imagination; it is a tamed art that can mold itself according to the needs of an industry. This is what graphic design books, tutorial websites and professional blogs teach you about.

5. Experiment, Experience, Understand

Experiment with various design styles and color combinations. Be innovative when creating designs. Think outside the box, avoid clichés and common trends. Playing with graphic software is a good exercise and a great way to learn various techniques. Doing so gives you practical knowledge which is worth more than the hundreds of books you may read. Also, don’t hesitate in asking your friends and colleagues for their opinion of on your work. This will help you to understand your flaws and improve on them.

6. Seek, Inspire, Create

Graphic designing is a field that has somewhat of recycled inspiration. In broader terms, it means that you will have to avoid seeking inspiration in other people’s work in order to be original. The first idea you might get for a project will not always be unique. With thousands of designers out there it is possible that your idea has already been worked on. Seek inspiration from your surroundings, from nature, from people you know instead of just focusing on online designs. Remember though, that seeking inspiration does not mean copying designs. Copying designs will take away your credibility as a professional designer.

7. Aim, Score, Win

Do not aim to be the best, aim to develop your skills and abilities. Keep learning and don’t hesitate to ask questions when you don’t understand anything. Become an active part of the design community. Share your knowledge as a designer with others and they in turn will not disappoint you when you have a question to ask. Cater to customer needs and understand their business. This will help you win clients and in turn you will able to build an excellent portfolio and be known as a professional graphic designer.

What else do you think makes a graphic design superstar? What is it that best designers do differently? Share your thoughts with us.

logodesignguru.com

Medical Assistants: Top Traits Needed In A Medical Assisting Career

noreply@blogger.com (Chicago ORT Technical Institute) — Wed, 11 Sep 2013 03:31:00 +0000

Most of us have had the benefit of a medical assistant's work when visiting a clinic, or doctor's office. But have you ever wondered if you have what it takes to pursue medical assistant training as a career? There are key traits every medical assistant should have such as strong communication skills, empathy, dependability, stress tolerance, self-control, courtesy, integrity, attention to detail, and agility.

It might help to understand what exactly a medical assistant does before you can appreciate the traits required to become one. While clinical duties vary according to state law, medical assistants generally perform a mix of administrative and clinical duties, including scheduling appointments, billing and coding for insurance purposes, maintaining medical records, taking and recording vital signs, documenting medical histories, preparing patients for examination, drawing blood and administering medications as directed by a physician.

Medical Assistant Traits

Do you possess any of the below traits? The following common traits may make you think about a medical assistant careers choice in a new light:

Strong Communication Skills: Listening to others without interruption while still asking relevant questions is key to obtaining valuable information that may be helpful to the doctor. Good communication is also about sharing important physician instructions clearly with patients and answering any questions he or she may have.

Empathetic: It's not only being a good listener that is important to a medical assistant, but also understanding any concerns, joys, and other situations and experiences patients are sharing with you. This may help them feel more at ease during the appointment.

Dependability: The doctor, your health care team members and the patients all depend on you to be on time, know your job, and respect the accepted protocols.

Stress Tolerance: A busy doctor's office or clinic can get quite hectic. Patients come to your facility in need of care, and there will always be plenty of paperwork to maintain, all of which contributes to the chaos. The everyday stresses that all of these situations can cause requires a strong, tolerant person to effectively handle each and every one.

Self-Control and Courtesy: It's easy to react to a busy physician, or a frustrated patient who is in pain or full of questions, but having self-control of your own emotions and actions in a health care setting while remaining courteous is the mark of a true professional.

Integrity: In a health care environment, the information a medical assistant collects and has access to is privileged information. The HIPAA Privacy Rule requires discretion of patient health information, but it's also a courtesy to be respectful of any information you obtain from a patient, even in casual conversation. As a result, medical assistants are faced with moral and ethical situations every day. Integrity is paramount to being a good medical assistant.

Attention to Detail: By being alert and attentive to details, you will be better able to help your patients, assist the doctors caring for them, and aid your colleagues so they can do their jobs more effectively.

Agility: Possessing manual dexterity and visual acuity will be invaluable in the medical assisting field when performing medical procedures.

Typically, those interested in becoming a medical assistant enjoy helping people, teaching and talking with others. If any of these traits appeal to you, it is important to find the right medical assistant training program that will teach you hands-on techniques from experienced instructors.

By Len Simpson