College Advice Blog

2020-07-20T11:43:00.030-04:00

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Hi and Welcome to College Advice Blog!

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In this blog you will find college advice about many issues you will encounter in college or while transitioning into college.

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Enjoy,
The Team of College Advice Blog

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Interview of Kimberly Taylor from The Helpful Classmate

2013-06-04T14:39:00.002-04:00

Today College Advice Blog presents an interview with the founder of The Helpful Classmate. Please leave your comments and/or questions in the section designated below.
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When did you create your website?

I created the website in the Fall of 2012. I began my services in the beginning of 2010, and shortly realized that I wanted to branch out and cater to those outside of my immediate line of contact; thus prompting me to create The Helpful Classmate website.

What is the goal behind creating The Helpful Classmate?

I was looking to share bits of wisdom I have learned along the way throughout my college matriculation and professional experiences. While in school, I noticed I was always that “go-to” classmate that many of my peers would seek advice from regarding classes. I want people to understand that no matter where they are in life, they are more than capable of achieving their goals. Often times, the smallest nugget of wisdom can do wonders in propelling you closer to being able to do so. The goal behind Helpful Classmate was to better position college students, recent graduates, and young professionals so that they are able to achieve their academic and professional goals. I believe that my ability to help others stems directly from the simple fact that I am or once been in the same shoes as those that I help.

What population are you aiming at providing help to?

The Helpful Classmate aims to aid college students, recent graduates, and talented young professionals.

What services do you offer on The Helpful Classmate?

On The Helpful Classmate we offer a number of services in the areas of Academic Success, Resume & Interview Preparation, Internship & Career Guidance, and College Writing. Within of these areas we offer specific services that cater to the varying needs of visitors. We also offer specially tailored services! If visitors do not see a service that directly fits their needs, they can send us a message stating what their needs are and we can figure out exactly how we can help.

Who is Kimberly Taylor?

Kimberly Taylor is a young professional with an entrepreneurial spirit and one that takes pride in helping others in whatever capacity possible. I earned both my Bachelors and Masters in Business Administration, and throughout my time in college, I had the opportunity of interning at three major companies, McDonald’s, USA, Eli Lilly, and PNC Bank. All of my experiences contributed to my ability to meet with success post-college where I began working in the Consulting industry in Washington, D.C. I have always taken it upon myself to help those wherever possible, and I strive to continue to do so.

What is the first thing people should read when they go into your website?

Upon first visiting the website, visitors should definitely take a look at the Tips & Tricks section of the website. This section is frequently updated with new, useful content that all visitors will find valuable and informative!

What do you want people to take away from The Helpful Classmate?

The number one thing I hope that people take away from The Helpful Classmate is that I have their best interest at heart, and when it comes to helping them, I truly want them to be able to reach their goals despite the obstacles they believe are in the way, academically or professionally.

Lucrative Degree Options for the Science Lover

2013-05-21T13:38:00.002-04:00

Science is by far one of the most interesting fields of study for college students. If you were interested in science in high school, college will take that learning to the next level. High school science is just a small taste of what you should expect if you decide to major in science; college science is a four course meal, with desert.

If you’ve long found yourself fascinated with science, consider making it more than just a hobby. Consider making it a career. Whether you’re a student coming out of high school or are wanting to go back to school to earn a new degree, if you’re passionate about science than earn a degree in a science related field. They say if you love what you do you’ll never work a day in your life, and if you want that to describe your career than check out these popular science degrees that you can go back to school to earn.

B.S. Kinesiology

Kinesiology is a fascinating field of science that focuses on the study of human movement, and it’s a science field that’s continuing to grow fast, too. Earning a kinesiology degree opens up a wide range of options in public health, fitness education, coaching, health advocacy, and more.

One reason that a career as a kinesiology specialist has become so popular is because of the call to end obesity in America. As more and more people are now focusing on their health and staying active and physically fit, the need for movement specialists has increased. It’s also a rewarding science career, as you will help people make changes and achieve life goals.

Master of Biotechnology
Another awesome and exciting science career is in biotechnology. Biotechnology is such an advanced field that it typically requires a masters degree. Earning a biotechnology degree is not for everyone as it requires a lot of hard work, but those who choose a career in the field typically love it.

Biotechnology combines a wide range of subjects. Specific masters programs will teach students to combine their backgrounds in science with specific business facets, such as marketing, accounting, and management. For those in the constantly changing biotechnology world, these are vital skills that any higher educated biotechnologist should be trained in.

B.S. Chemistry
Earning a B.S. in chemistry is a great way to enter a fantastic career field. There’s no end to the amount of career options you have with a chemistry degree, and if chemistry was your strong suit in high school than you can bet that you’ll love it in college. Careers in chemistry open doors to jobs in chemical engineering, medicine, food chemistry, environmental chemistry, and more.

Additionally, earning a college degree in chemistry means you’ll be able to earn higher chemistry degrees, which is where the doors really open up. Earning a four year degree will mean you’ve got a good shot at being accepted into a school to earn an advanced degree. From there, your options are limitless.

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About the Author

Author Ted Levin is a writer currently researching higher education options. You can connect with Ted on Google+.

Spectacular Feats of Modern Engineering

2013-05-18T19:22:00.001-04:00

This is an interesting infographic that was recently brought to my attention and I would like to share it with my readers:

Presented by Americantrainco.com

Moving Back Home After College

2013-05-09T16:22:00.000-04:00

You learned so much in college. Now learn this: Moving home for a short period of time and saving money for your own place (while figuring out exactly where you want to be) can be a smart thing!

Number one reason to move back home: $$$$$

As you can imagine, saving money is the most frequent reason grads move back to the old homestead. Think for a moment just how much you’ll save while you’re living at home – hundreds of dollars a month at least! You’ll save on rent, utility bills, you might even save by remaining under your parents’ health insurance coverage. But don’t become a freeloader, make sure you help out around the house and contribute in some way if you’re not thanking your parents monetarily.

Number one thing to think about: Can you live with the ‘rents again?

Before you move a muscle, much less your furniture and boxes, think about whether or not you can live with your parents now that you’re an adult with a full time job. You can? Great, because it can be a good time to learn from your parents. They can give you advice on how to budget for a home – for example, utilities, homeowner’s insurance, and taxes you’ve never had to worry about before. If you don’t already know your way around a kitchen, you can learn how to cook some of those childhood favorites you loved so much. And some of you might not even know how to do your laundry because mom always did it, even in college! It’s time to learn how to sort and wash your clothes.

Number one thing to do: Find yourself

And what about those of you who can’t find that right entry level job right away? Take the time to figure out what you want to do and exactly where you want to live. A lot of grads accept the first job they’re offered, and no one is saying that’s necessarily a bad thing, but you don’t want to move to a new city and rent an apartment only to feel alone and stuck in a career you realize isn’t for you. So if you can, take six months or a year to discover what really makes you happy and where you really want to live.

Number one thing to change: Your lifestyle (but not too much)

Lastly, moving home after graduation allows you to get back on track. A lot of college students sign up for afternoon classes so they can sleep until noon, get the classes out of the way, take a nap, study or do their coursework (or not) and then hang out with their friends until early in the morning. This is not what life is like after college! In the real world you’ll need to be at your new job by 8:00 a.m. (maybe 9:00 if you’re lucky) and you’re expected to work all day, come home, then take care of yourself and the house too. Being at home with your parents helps you adjust to the next step in your life. No more late nights (except of course on Friday and Saturday). Get used to it – then you’ll be ready to move.

And guess what? As cliché as it sounds, in the end, you’ll find yourself bonding with your parents in a way you never did as a teenager. You’ll discover things you have in common with them that you never even realized. In the end, moving back home for a while is just a new beginning – one that can give you a better chance for success in the future.

And remember, it isn’t permanent!

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About the Author

Tara Chila writes for the long distance moving company Transit Systems, Inc.’s blog. For over 20 years, Transit Systems has been providing moving services small and large, and shipping services from everyday furniture to antiques, pianos and grandfather clocks.

Can an Online Accounting Degree Really Prepare You for a Job in the Real World?

2013-04-28T11:11:00.001-04:00

If you enjoy making sense of numbers, an online accounting degree may be right for you. With debits and credits, balance sheets and trial balances, businesses of all sorts need knowledgeable experts but will online study offer you a chance to gain entrance to this “numbers” society?

The Business of Accounting

Image via Flickr NVarchitect

Accountant and bookkeepers must follow what are known as the GAAP rules or Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. GAAP is not just a buzzword acronym and includes determined rules set by the Financial Standards Accounting Board (FASB) and the Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB).

Business financial books fear many, but to one armed with an online accounting degree, these books present a challenge of absolutes and excellence to ensure accurate and reliable financial statements.
Further, the accounting field is vast in job opportunities and follows a set cycle through managed organization. To those who work in the accounting field, the ability to make sense of financial books is like a mysterious puzzle where they are in control of making the pieces fit accurately. Working in a field that is so numbers intensive offers a feeling of accomplishing something others can’t do.

Education vs. The Real World

Accounting principles have set rules so even if you get a job where they utilize accounting software dedicated to their industry the accounting rules stay the same. You may need to learn the software at hand but the principles never change.

Financial statements also have basic elements. For example, a balance sheet will always show assets, liabilities and reveal owner equity. Profit and loss statements may appear different in format, but all of them show income minus fixed and variable expenses to determine a net profit. A trial balance will always show every bookkeeping debit and credit made to every asset, liability, revenue or cost account.
Once you are educated and trained, other fascinating jobs in the accounting field include overseeing a group of accountants or bookkeepers, becoming a corporate controller, setting up your own firm and offering business services such as tax preparation and payroll services or going the personal route and being dedicated to those needing accounting services on a personal level.

The Right Education

With so many people changing careers due to high unemployment rates, seeking out the right educational venue like a Bryant & Stratton accounting program will get you your online accounting degree and prepare you for the real world.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics most recent survey, the median salary for trained accountants is $34.15 per hour or $71,040 annually but these numbers don’t include those in the field who start their own firms, become CPAs, or those who work high on the corporate ladder.
Armed with an online accounting degree you can expect to work in a variety of corporate, nonprofit and government fields. Many accountants dedicate their careers to auditing books and financial records which offers a great income stream along with the ability to travel.

An degree in accounting can take you a long way and with the variety of job opportunities available, if numbers entice you, consider the advantage of a degree and let the field guide you to the top—no matter what area you choose to specialize in.

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About the Author

Amanda Brown is a freelance writer whom enjoys reading and writing about education, finance, and careers. She enjoys playing and coaching volleyball, and spending loads of time with her friends and family, including her dog, Charlie.

5 Ways to Bring in Extra Cash While in College

2013-04-25T10:15:00.000-04:00

Being a full time college student can feel like you’re working overtime on a daily basis, and for most individuals, working a full time job and going to school is way too much to balance. Making ends meet can be difficult without a source of income, and having any spare money left to enjoy your youth with can seem like a faraway dream. If you’re tired of maintaining a diet of ramen noodles, there are ways you can increase your cash flow, and while you’re certainly not going to be able to live a life of luxury anytime soon, you will be able to have a bit of fun and relieve some of the weight of your financial stress.

Donate Plasma

Donating plasma is a great way to bring in some extra cash (about $100-$150 a month depending on the location), and many college students utilize this option on a regular basis. Not only do you get paid for donating your plasma and a few hours of your time, but you’re also contributing to a greater cause; plasma is used to help people fight rare diseases as well as those who are suffering from burns. There are some physical and health requirements you’ll have to meet, but for the most part, it’s a pretty surefire way to get some money in your wallet.

Tutor Your Peers For every subject you love, and everything you’re talented at, there is someone out there who just doesn’t get it, and you can easily benefit off of what comes natural to you. Hang up fliers or advertise on Craigslist that you can help someone finish their chemistry homework or write their English paper, and you might be surprised how many takers you get. With all the stress that comes along with school, people are willing to do anything to take some of the pressure off, and offering your knowledge could prove to be a promising way to score a little cash while helping someone out in the process.

Find a Part Time Job with Flexible Hours
This might sounds like the most obvious piece of advice you could possibly hear, but keep an open mind; many campuses offer jobs designed to work around a student schedule. Check in with the administrative building, ask your guidance counselor, or browse the school’s website to find out what options are available. There are many businesses that would be glad to have someone on board for just a few hours on the weekend as well, so be bold, get out there, and ask. The worst you’re going to hear is no, so you really don’t have much to lose.

Help People with Odd Jobs
If your school schedule is too tight to be able to commit to anything on a regular basis, advertise that you’re available to help with odd jobs. Working parents, elderly folks, and other busy everyday people sometimes need help with keeping up with tasks even if it’s not a regular occurrence. Things such as dog walking, yard work, organizing an attic, and everything in between are common things that need to be done that are easily put on the back burner, and individuals are willing to pay good money to someone willing to help them catch up with their chores ( remember to always exercise extreme caution when entering a stranger’s home).

Have a Yard Sale
College is a great time to cash in on some of the things you don’t necessarily need anymore because of the simple fact that most students are as broke as you. An old shirt you don’t want anymore might not sell for anything in the real world, but in the college realm there is probably some fellow student who would be more than happy to pay a few dollars for a new piece of clothing. Advertise a yard sale in one of the dorms, or anywhere on campus that will allow you to do so, and by selling old clothes, movies, CDs, and anything else you can part with, you’re bound to improve your current financial state to some degree.

College students are notorious for being broke, and while you might not be able to stray too far from that stigma, there are many opportunities available for you to increase the amount of money coming in so you can indulge in some finer things once in a while. Experiment with these options, enjoy your youth, and keep in mind that one day, even if you have all the money in the world, you’ll look back on ramen feasts and feel a little nostalgic.

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About the Author

Arlene Chandler is a freelance writer who loves helping people face the uncertainty of tomorrow. When she’s not taking her dogs into the hills, she writes about career advice and finance tips for the Suncorp life insurance page.

5 Common College Myths that Can Trip You Up

2013-04-24T18:18:00.001-04:00

The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development did a study in 2010 which indicated that only 46 percent of American college students graduate with a degree. As we can see, obtaining a college degree under normal circumstances is hard enough. Students can make things much worse when they are unable to separate the myths from reality when it comes to going to school.

"College is More Difficult than High School"

The education that a student receives at the college level is usually in line with that student's high school background. What makes college difficult is the loss of the familiar comfort zone that students thrive on in high school. When a child is a teenager in high school, there is a strong support structure in place that includes seeing his parents every night and school administrators assigned to help the child succeed. In college, that security blanket is gone. To adjust, find the balance between campus life and college studies that makes the experience comfortable.

"I Need a Career Path Before College"

Part of the reason that students fail at the college level is the significant amount of pressure that they put on themselves to live up to other people's expe ctations. The college experience is about discovering new things and understanding what you want to do with your life. Most college students do not decide on their major until after their first year of study. Enjoy the experience and use the resources around you to determine your future path.

"I Can Leave if the Professor is Late"

One of the biggest adjustments that high school students have to make when going to college is being accountable for themselves. In high school, your teacher is waiting for you in each class. In college, professors sometimes show up late for various reasons. The myth that you can leave if the teacher is late is false. In most cases, the class syllabus will outline the rules for a tardy teacher. Read the guidelines and know the real rules.

"I Should Get Electives Out of the Way"

Either you or your parents, or both of you, are investing some kind of money into your college education. The myth that you should take easy electives just to get them over with implies that you should just throw two years of your life, and the financial investment that goes with it, away. Take good classes from teachers that have reputations for making the experience interesting and fun.

"I Must Join a Fraternity or Sorority"

The social college experience is just as important as the education that you will get. But the myth that you must join a fraternity or sorority the moment you get on campus is not true. You should take a look at what the different organizations have to offer and decide if that is what you really want to do. It is your college experience, and you should make the decisions that will help you get the most out of it.

College is a great learning experience in so many different ways. Before you set foot on campus for the first time, you need to debunk some of the most popular myths to make sure you give your college career a good start. Click here to learn more about the college experience and how it can benefit you.

Things To Consider When Choosing A College Major

2013-04-19T23:11:00.000-04:00

Going to College costs a lot of money, and the average student’s tendency to change their major at least once during the course of their college careers only mires them even more deeply in student loan debt by the time they make it out. That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t go to college, but it does mean that it’s smart to avoid staying extra semesters and racking up more debt just because you couldn’t figure out what you wanted in your first two. While many college advisors will recommend that you start out undeclared, they won’t warn you that many of the more valuable degrees require a fairly strict schedule of classes that come in strings of prerequisites, potentially taking an entire eight semesters work through. Because of this it’s a always better to come prepared with a plan right out of the gate. Here are a few things to think about before you start your higher education.

Income Demands
The most important, and ignored, question that you need to ask yourself is “how am I going to afford to live?”. This is the question that prompts more changed majors than any other issue. It’s important to consider how much an average person with the degree that you’re pursuing makes, and whether you’ll be able to find a job at all once you have it. Think about your hopes and dreams; do you want to live in a big house, travel, take long vacations? Secondary education teachers make 30-50 thousand dollars usually, which is fairly modest, but benefit from long vacations in the summer (not as long as you might think though). On the other hand tech salaries are regularly twice as large as that, meaning you can afford to live very comfortably, but typically don’t allow for as much off time.

Introvert/Extrovert Spectrum
Think about the job that your college major leads to. If you don’t like talking to other people all day then a lot of business related degrees like marketing or communication might not be for you. Conversely a particularly extroverted individual wouldn’t enjoy accounting or most of the sciences because that involves hiding away doing analyses for much of the day.

While those are fairly obvious examples, many jobs are very different than they appear at first glance. To deal with this you should find blogs about the fields that you’re interested in and engage in open dialogue with people who are actually doing those jobs. While much of the internet isn’t a hospitable place most people are happy to talk about their work and will gladly tell you everything you’d like to know.

International Considerations
Are you someone who thinks that your hometown is the best place on earth, or are you gripped with thirst for adventure and the need to see the world? Some jobs lend themselves well to travel (or might even require it), while others demand that you stay in the same place all the time. If you want to travel all over the world, for example, a law degree isn’t helpful because US law doesn’t apply outside the US. If, on the other hand, you study physics, you’ll be able to live and work in any industrialized nation. If you want to limit yourself even less than that you can study linguistics, English, or a foreign language and become a teacher abroad.

Knowing what you want to do immediately after college can be immensely helpful in deciding how you want to spend your time at school, so take your time, plan thoroughly, and move decisively.

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About the Author

Reyna Ramli is a writer for CareerBliss, an online community dedicated to helping people find happiness in the workplace. When Reyna is not writing, she scours fashion magazines and blogs to satisfy her craving for fashion tips and trends, or takes random pictures with her iPhone for her Instagram obsession. Follow Reyna on Twitter!

Is a Degree in Business Management Right for You?

2013-04-14T22:01:00.001-04:00

Let’s face it, the economy is down and unemployment rates are high. Investing in a college degree doesn’t mean the same thing that it did when our parents invested in one. All too often people get college degrees and after a year of job searching they are still bagging groceries or working in retail. Getting a college degree is still important though, and it makes graduates more marketable. They key is to get a degree in a field that has trended up the ladder of opportunities. In other words a market where there are lots of jobs, where salaries are generous, and where there is always room for advancement. The business sector is one such realm.

Getting a Potomac College Business Management degree provides students with a massive knowledge base for business in multiple sectors thus making them very attractive to employers. A degree in business management is a smart investment, as jobs are abundant, the money is sitting there to be made, and it will open new doors to future advancement.

Taking a look at the hiring world
It is of course important to study something we like and that we are passionate about. But pursuing a degree in something practical with high employment possibilities is equally important. According to the United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are a number of careers that are projected to add jobs this decade. According to research, obtaining a degree in business management leads to employment quicker than most other degree programs. Labor statistics reveal that accounting and business management account for the top of the employment chain. These jobs are up for grabs within the medical industry, in the educational sectors, government, and in corporations.

Picking the right college
Finding an accredited college is easy enough, and unless you can get into MIT, employers don’t put much focus on where you earned your degree. Therefore, getting a degree in business management from any accredited institute should be one’s primary concern. A good secondary concern would be to examine cost. If you compare national costs of an average state university to hybrid colleges that encompass both online and physical learning environments, you will be stunned.

For years now the average costs of getting a degree from a standard campus-based college or university has steadily increased, while costs for online schools and hybrids remain the same. Graduating with a degree and being as debt-free as possible should be every student’s goal. Therefore, online programs are very advantageous.

Investigate
When you find a good accredited college that offers online and campus learning environments, chat with some of the professors and students. Get a feel for the program. Ask the professors what makes the course a good one, and ask students how they are benefiting from it. At the end of the day a degree in business management will help launch you into the clouds of success. And finding the right college with professors and students who are excited and enthusiastic about the course will make the experience an even better one.

A Brief about Ameritas College

2013-04-11T10:14:00.001-04:00

Ameritas College, which is a division of Brandman University is located in six different cities in various areas of California, from San Diego, to Palm Desert, to Ontario. Ameritas seeks to help the Hispanic Community and thus has created itself to be a bilingual college to further assist the community. The school also provides students with bilingual faculty and advisors, from academic to financial aid advisement.

Further, to help families who are always on the go and too busy to attend school full time, Ameritas College provides a combination of both online and on campus courses. With online learning Ameritas provides students with pre-recorded lectures, as well as interactive educational multimedia presentations, voice-conference classes, and online discussions forums between students and teachers.

The tuition at Ameritas seems to be a little high, but for being a private school, it is a reasonable amount. Furthermore, they do offer many scholarships, as well as financial aid for students who quality. For instance, if a student qualifies for the maximum government aid, they can get close to $20,000 a year in money that does not have to be repaid from Pell grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), and Cal Grant.

Overall Ameritas seems to truly want to assist the Hispanic community and thus it has established itself as a bilingual college for that reason.

5 Tips that Increase Your Chances of Getting an Internship

2013-04-02T13:41:00.000-04:00

In today's job market, almost everything has become competitive. No matter what your skills are or who you know you might have some difficulty getting that first foot in the door. Still, you can use these five tips to help secure an internship that will benefit you in your career search after graduation.

Accept No Pay

Be realistic about what you can expect in the world of internships. It is unlikely that you are going to find an internship that pays. At best, you might be reimbursed for transportation costs or receive a stipend when the internship has concluded. Therefore, you should accept the fact that you will likely be an unpaid intern. While the business may not be spending money on you, the time, knowledge, and resources shared for your training will be of great benefit to you.

Use the Career Center

So many students never bother to go to their college career centers, and they are really missing out on some excellent opportunities by doing so. At the career center, you can speak with a counselor about your specific goals and the best ways that you can achieve these goals. Furthermore, the career center can help you find an internship. In fact, in many schools, the career center will place you into the internship. Still, you need to express an interest and a dedication to be accepted.

Fix Your Resume

In quite a number of programs, you are going to be required, or at least strongly advised, to complete an internship. Some students might take this for granted and assume that they are just going to fall into an internship. You don't want just any internship for the sake of having one to put on your résumé, but you want to be blessed with a good one in which you can learn valuable skills. Therefore, you want to show employers that you are serious about the job and ready to work as an adult. Get some help from your school's career center and writing center to craft a cover letter and résumé that are stellar.

Dress the Part

Before you can secure an internship opportunity for yourself, you will usually go for an interview. Do not assume that it's okay to wear jeans and sneakers just because you are a college student. Again, the employers want to see that you are serious about your work and that you take this job with the utmost level of respect. Generally, it's best to dress in slightly more formal fashion that the typical office culture. This rule applies even in the most creative of fields. Even if the usual dress code is casual and most employees wear jeans, wear slacks or a nice skirt to the interview.

The Location

Before you are even close to getting an internship, choose the college that you plan to attend. If you want to secure an internship that is really going to help you grow, it is wise to look for schools that have a lot of connections. For example, if you are interested in working in film, you should go to schools in New York or California as these will present you with the most opportunities in your field. Having a sense of the local opportunities is wise.

Internships are important when you are in college because they give you the chance to make a positive impression on the boss and to possibly have a job waiting for you after college.

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About the Author

This article was written by Jake Billings, a freelance writer of many career articles. He has recently helped many students and graduates find internships and finance jobs.

First Responders - A Details Job

2013-04-02T12:19:00.002-04:00

First responders are the first to arrive on scene to an accident or event where someone may be in need of emergency medical services, protection, or executive force. This can include firefighters, police officers and EMTs. Some firefighters and police officers are ‘certified first responders’, meaning they have been trained to give medical care better than basic first aid. Certified first responders generally can perform advanced medical first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, immobilization for bone or spinal injuries, and emergency childbirth. The length of training for first responders varies in length and intensity according to choice occupation.

Certified first responders are at the bottom tier of emergency medical services; training is short and state certification standards may vary, some requiring as little as twelve hours of study. Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) are broken into levels of certification with hours of study dependent upon level. Advanced programs may take up to two years, while basic programs may require twelve hours of intense study and hands-on practice. Physical and emotional strength, attention to detail, and the ability to remain cool in high-stress situations are important qualities for an EMT.

Firefighters must have a minimum of a high school diploma or a GED equivalent and attend specialized training programs that are broken up into levels of certification. Since they are often first responders to accidents and fires, many are required to have basic EMT certification to be employable. Physical strength and stamina are important assets to this particular occupation.

Police officers, similarly, may require as little as a high school diploma, followed by participation in rigorous physical and mental training programs. Because they are in a dangerous occupation, they should have the ability to think fast under stress, be physically and emotionally healthy, and exercise good judgment. While the level of education is low to secure entry positions in the field of law enforcement, those who have advanced their learning through online criminal justice schools open doors to managerial positions. Prospective police officers could benefit from a degree obtained through online criminal justice schools.

Online criminal justice schools offer education in law, criminal psychology, ethics and policy procedures, and various other related topics. Advanced degrees qualify police officers, as well as most first responders, to secure higher levels of employment and better pay. Online criminal justice schools are just as qualified as brick and mortar colleges to deliver quality education, but with a more flexible schedule. This is a good option for working adults looking to improve employability and advancement in their field. Associates degrees often take as little as two years to complete. Bachelor’s degrees might take four years with a full schedule. Master’s degrees sometimes require as little as thirty credits beyond undergraduate completion.

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About the Author

Jared Farnsworth is a freelance writer who focuses on education, educational philosophy, employment trends, training and other related matters. Those who feel they might benefit from a degree obtained through online criminal justice schools should view these resources.

Career Wisdom: Interior Design is NOT Interior Decorating

2013-03-28T18:58:00.001-04:00

Interior design is a creative art that incorporates all the elements of a room into a cohesive and functional package.

People need to study concepts to achieve this cohesion, no matter their artistic flair. Interior design is about providing people with solid living space to melds both innovative design and a working space.

In contrast, interior decorating is something one employs when they need a room outfitted with decor. It relies much more on the aesthetics of a room than its actual purpose. Thus, interior decorating can be much more a hobby than career. There is no need to go to school for a profession that relies more on personal taste than anything else. Almost anyone can be a decorator as all it takes is a credit card and a great store.

How Do You Become an Interior Designer?
If you are interested in becoming an interior designer, then you should attend a specialized school. School is not a bad thing because it will teach you about different materials, work spaces, proportions, the importance of lighting and much more.

Some people don’t even know there are institutions for this career. There you will be taught the basics of drawing and designing. However, you will also learn how to run a successful business. This is what will separate you from the amateurs. You might be a great designer, but savvy business skills can make or break your success in this industry.

You need to be able to graph and chart living spaces with no problem. If you are interested in construction, landscape architecture or even digital media arts, you need to have a perception of a room's ability to perform.

A great design school will also help line up internships for you during the summer. You should take advantage of your alumni connections because this is what can help open doors for you. A simple internship can teach you more than you might think. A school with a solid career development office can do wonders for your marketability. It will teach you how to write your resume, build your portfolio, and network with the right people. Learn everything you can in design school, but it is sometimes the experiences outside of the classroom where you learn the most. Thus, a great internship will do wonders for your career.

Why Should You Go to Interior Design School?
If you seem a bit dubious about going to a school for interior design, that is perfectly understandable. However, please note that you will not be considered a designer, but a decorator. If you really want to get ahead in this field, then you need the proper training of an interior design bachelors degree. There are so many things that you need to know when it comes to creating a dynamic and useful space. Interior design is much more than just good taste and creativity, it takes talent to bring it all the elements together.
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About the Author

Arnie Skinner is a freelance blogger and writer who focuses on interior design, exterior renovation, remodeling, home improvement and other kindred topics.

Benefits of Dual Grad Degrees in the Health Profession

2013-03-28T18:05:00.003-04:00

Interdisciplinary degrees like the Master of Public Health (MPH) and the Master of Public Policy (MPP) are well suited for dual degree pairings. Students in dual degree programs that include an MPH or MPP are able to expand the focus of their primary degree while gaining public health or public policy knowledge and skills. Some professionals with advanced degrees such as an Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Juris Doctorate (JD) return to school to earn an MPH or MPP. While not earned simultaneously, this type of dual degree can provide the same advantages of increased knowledge and skills in the public service area.

The most common dual degrees in the health field are the MPH/JD, MPH/MSW (Master of Social Work), MD/MPH and MPP/JD. There are many personal, professional and financial benefits associated with these dual degrees. Graduates can establish a career in either field or follow a specialized career path that combines both disciplines. For professionals who are passionate about a particular issue related to public health or public policy, holding a technical degree in law, medicine or social work can provide the means for getting things done. Enrolling in two graduate programs also provides increased opportunities for networking.

Students in dual degree programs that include an MPH can personalize their education with different areas of concentration. Typical concentration areas include epidemiology, biostatistics, health services management, global health and nutrition. Some programs also offer a generalist track that allows JD or MD students to integrate public health with their studies in law or medicine. Many MPH programs that are associated with schools of medicine allow students to work with faculty from a variety of medical specialties and to complete clinical health experiences.

Here’s a bit more information about specific dual degree programs:

MPH/JD

Combining a Juris Doctor with a Master of Public Health degree allows students to focus on the intersections of law, policy and science. Law students in dual MPH/JD program can enrich their law school experience with graduate courses in health economics, heath management and policy, environmental health, global health and research methodologies. Following graduation, they are qualified to play important roles as legal consultants for health care organizations or public health agencies. Students who complete MPH and JD degrees are also prepared to step into leadership positions in the public and private health care sectors.

MPH/MSW

Dual Master of Public Health and Master of Social Work programs qualify graduates to provide social services that are related to health. Career opportunities can be found in local and state health departments, hospitals and managed care organizations, federal health agencies and nonprofit health care organizations. MPH/MSW graduates may provide clinical social services or serve as program planners, administrators or consultants.

MD/MPH

Medical students who are interested in the increasingly important field of public health can prepare to make important contributions with dual Master of Public Health and Doctor of Medicine degrees. Physicians who are interested in rehabilitative and preventative health care, and who want to improve the health of populations will benefit from the perspective provide by an MPH degree. Career options include public health organizations at the community, state, national and international levels.

MPP/JD

Law students who are interested in the public policy aspects of public health will find that a dual Master of Public Policy degree provides the skills needed to address public policies related to complex health issues. Lawyers who have earned a dual MPP degree are qualified to participate in policy development by advocating for particular positions, drafting legislation and challenging existing laws through litigation. Students in MPP/JD programs develop diverse skill sets that are required to shape national health policy.
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About the Author

Sarah Fudin is the community manager for the George Washington University’s innovative online MPH degree program which allows prospective students to earn an online Masters in Public Health. Sarah enjoys working with GW as a way to positively effect change and become a life long learner.

Convenient Tech Options For Students

2013-03-26T15:25:00.000-04:00

We tend to hear a lot about how much fun the college experience is, and there is of course plenty of truth in these discussions. A person's four years in college are a wonderful time to have fun, make friends, and share experiences. But sometimes the focus is so heavily on the social side of college that people forget just how hard the academic side can be. Students in today's college environment tend to have rigorous schedules, with heavy course loads and difficult work.

For this reason, it's always a good idea for students to take advantage of anything that can make the experience just a bit easier or more convenient. And one of the best ways to do this is through some very common and, by now, basic technologies that many students still don't take full advantage of. Here are a few examples to consider.

Smart Phones

By now, smart phones are very widespread, and the basic benefits for students are obvious: constant access to the Internet and email. However, many students still aren't getting as much as they can out of their smart phones. There are dozens, if not hundreds of apps specifically designed to simplify life for college students. For example, consider a few of the following:

Evernote - A mini-cloud for note-taking, this device syncs notes, pictures, and audio files you record during class to all of your devices, simplifying your note-taking and studying methods.
iTunes U - This app allows students to download notes, presentations, and course material from colleges all over the world. It's wonderful for quick research, thorough studies, and extra perspectives on topics you may be studying.
iStudiez Pro - This is essentially the ultimate planner for a smart phone. You can input class schedules and locations, assignments, due dates, and any other sort of information you need to stay on top of your work, all in one convenient place.

Cloud Computing

Cloud networks from providers like ShareFile offer students two enormous benefits: backup for important work and projects, and smooth collaboration with other students. When you save a document, presentation, or any other sort of work to the cloud, it is no longer dependent on a single device. This means that you can access and work on it from any device with Internet access, which in turn saves your work from being lost or destroyed if you lose a laptop, damage a smart phone, etc. Additionally, other students (say, partners in a group project) can also access your cloud if permitted, which makes group work far simpler.

Electronic Readers

Finally, there's e-readers, which so many students are still not using. In fact, even many college students who have tablets for other purposes avoid using the reading features! But the bottom line is, e-readers allow you to download books and other content for easy access, note-taking, and convenient transport. When it comes to gadgets and tech that simplify college life, electronic readers are still at the top of the list.

Going Solo After Law School- Hints and Tips

2013-03-20T11:30:00.000-04:00

Cliché and parent-y as it sounds: when you hang your shingle, particularly right out of school, law is the easy part; it’s building your business that’s tough. It requires a lot of time, a lot of work, a lot of sense and skill, sometimes a lot of money and definitely a lot of organization. If you feel like you have that stuff wired and decide to swing the shingle right from the get go there are a few things you’ll need to do.

Speaking of wired- the net has become an absolute necessity.

Get online and get your name out there. Eight times out of ten (the other two being referrals), that’s where your business is going to be coming from. To snag that business, brand yourself; find a niche. Obviously, if you have an absolute passion for some facet of the law- go for it. If you’re not entirely sure though, think outside the box (or the drunk tank and ambulance). Almost wherever you are, chances are good that the DUI and Personal Injury markets have been pretty well hit. But what about marketing yourself as “the high-tech attorney”. Depending on the size of your market, have a semi-official specialty in social media law, or bullying.

Play to your market’s particulars too. If you live near the ocean, specialize in maritime law or read up on the most common cases and suits related to maritime regulation and specialize in that. I have one friend who’s studying up on maritime law as it’s apparently going to function as the template for Space Law (which is also an excellent name for a thriller starring Vin Diesel).

If working for a firm or other cooperative attorney-hiring entity isn’t your style but flying solo seems a little too safety net-less, consider an intermediary option- find some like-minded classmates or colleagues and rent space together without forming a firm. Sharing property while remaining autonomous allows both the freedom to keep your own counsel, so to speak, but provides a support network; even if it’s just moral support.

In my opinion, working for someone before hanging the shingle, even if it’s just a year or two, can be invaluable. Being in a firm, with the local government, etc., establishes a network of colleagues and perhaps clients along with providing practical experience. And practical experience is almost always better learned under someone’s wing than it is on the fly under your own roof. Especially since a great deal of practical experience can only be gleaned through the making of mistakes. Beyond that- consider buying and reading some well-reviewed books on the business of law, do your best, work your hardest and good luck.

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About the Author

Noah Kovacs has over twenty years experience in the legal field. He has since retired early and enjoys blogging about small business law, legal marketing, and everything in between. He recently purchased his first cabin and spends his free time remodeling its kitchen for his family. Twitter: @NoahKovacs

3 Financial Tips I Wish I Would Have Followed In College

2013-03-05T14:10:00.000-05:00

Some of the best memories that I have were ones that I created when I was in college. It was a time of excitement, newfound freedom, and my introduction into a world where I was charged with a lot more responsibility. I’m not just talking about doing all of my own laundry, learning how to cook my own food, or actually keeping my apartment clean because my mom wasn’t around to do it for me anymore; I’m talking about the responsibility of being on my own financially. I had to learn quickly how to balance what wasn’t covered by student loans with what was, figure out what I could and could not afford, and try to save as much money as I could—essentially I had to make a bunch of financial mistakes that I learned from and that I wish somebody would have told me about beforehand. Fortunately for you, the internet is a commonly available commodity, and I am here to relay that information. Here are the three biggest financial moves that I wish I would have done differently in college.

Only Pull Out Loans You Absolutely Need
When I first started college, I went in with a couple of scholarships for good grades, but other than that, my expenses were not covered. Mom and Dad did what little they could to help, but the burden of responsibility really fell on me, which meant that I had to take out loans. I was actually extremely surprised by how much I qualified for, because not only would loans have covered my tuition, but it would have also covered some of my other expenses like my textbooks. I thought it was a good idea to take as much as I could so that I’d have some spending money—and have spent the last 10 years paying all of it back. Instead of paying $500 on the spot for my first semester textbooks, I made the mistake of letting interest accumulate and have paid a lot more over a longer period of time. I should have only accepted loans for what I truly needed.

Pay Off Accumulating Interest If You Can
While we’re on the topic of student loans, most students have the opportunity to pay off the interest on their loans as that interest accumulates. I did, but decided not to pay that interest off at the time. Why should I? It’s not like it would have saved me that much money right? WRONG! Like I said above, I’ve been paying my student loans off for the past ten years, and actually paying the interest off as it accumulated could have knocked off up to one year of those payments. It all depends on who you are accepting your loans from, but definitely look into seeing if you are able to pay off the interest as it accumulates.

Save As Much Money As You Can
The last piece of advice that I have, one of those things that I really wish I would have done, is save money. I do it now and if I would have started earlier—well, let’s just say I would probably be driving at least a little bit nicer of a car. Not everybody is going to have this option because not everybody gets a job in college, but I did and too much of that money was blown on Saturday nights that I don’t remember. Even if you end up putting $20 a month away, at the end of a 4 year period in college you will have about $1,000 by the time you’re done. For most people that will cover the first couple of loans while you get on your feet after college, which can make or break some people.

Once you get out of college, chances are that you won’t land that dream job for a while. Having that extra padding, that extra cushion can make all of the difference in the world while you’re trying to make something of yourself in the real world, so if you are in college or are about to enter college, heed this advice—you’ll be glad you did.

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About the Author

About the Author: Annie Harrington is a small business owner and freelance writer. She is also keenly interested in all aspects of design, including how to personalize checks.

College Major: When to Switch and When to Stay

2013-03-05T13:31:00.001-05:00

Choosing a college major is difficult enough, but what happens when you decide you want to switch to a new major? Finishing college with a specific degree might limit the possible jobs you can obtain. However, some majors allow for many different jobs and there's always a possibility of a double major. Here are five quick tips to help, if you're considering switching majors.

Five Tips to Consider Before Changing your Major

1. How Far Along Are You?

If you're only a year or so away from finishing your degree, it might not be wise to switch. However, you can always add an extra semester or summer school to double major. This can actually make you a more desirable candidate in some industries. For example, if you're currently enrolled in one of the schools for photography and considering switching your major to journalism, these fit together very well as a double major.

2. Can you Afford to Switch?

Whether you're going to school with the help of grants, loans and scholarships or you're paying for it out of your own pocket, it's always important to look at your financial situation. If you won't be eligible for financial aid, after a certain point, you need to consider your options before switching majors.

3. Avoid Looking at the Stats

Statistics showing how much certain degrees pay, once entering the job world, and how likely you will find a job with a certain degree, can be misleading. Lists, such as America's top paying professions, change on a regular basis. Today one profession may pay well, but tomorrow it could be another.

4. Consider your Passion and your Love

One of the most important things to consider when switching your college major is what you want to do with the rest of your life. What do you enjoy and what is your passion? If you're considering switching majors, it's usually a sign that your current major isn't something you really enjoy. Maybe you're majoring in business, when you really love teaching. Even though a business degree might land you a career with a larger salary, you will probably find more happiness at the head of the classroom.

5. Find some Quiet

Often, students switch majors on the opinion or advice of parents, friends, boyfriends/girlfriends or other people in their lives. This is dangerous and even though you may trust the person giving you the advice, it's better to find some quiet time to think about it for yourself. This is ultimately your life and your decision. Don't switch majors because someone else thinks you should or you could look back with regrets later in life.

Going from one major to another may require more schooling, but it will be worth the extra time, if it leads to a satisfying career. Just make sure you're making the right decision for you and not for anybody else or strictly for a larger potential salary.

How to Choose the Right College – 5 Great Tips

2013-02-26T16:35:00.001-05:00

College search should not start and end with the Ivy League of schools. The truth is there are so many schools that you can choose from, some of which are well known, while others less recognized, all worthy of your consideration. Below, find some advice that may be helpful when choosing a reliable school.

Begin with who you are and why you should enroll for college

You should evaluate yourself and your purpose for enrolling in college just before you can start your search. Personal analysis will help you determine your strengths, weaknesses and also help mold your career into the shape of your ideals.

Personal review will also bring out various individual aspects such as whether or not you may need familial support. You would be required to also involve your family members, friends and high-school psychoanalysts, as you present such questions. Folks that are close to you should be the best to help you through the process of choosing the best school.

Size is a factor to consider

Some of the best liberal arts colleges usually have less than 4,000 students; college is a place for individual rediscovery, and a tiny college community is rather conducive to personal examination. When choosing a college, it is not the number of students there in that counts, but the type of community in which you intend to learn that matters a great deal. For your information, some of the big colleges have established honors schools within the perimeters of larger universities for such reasons.

Your academic success will not be determined by the brand name

Look for some of the successful people in your life and try to understand where they went to college. Evaluate the same issue concerning some of the most celebrated people. You will certainly learn that success has nothing to do with the college one went to. In any case, success is born from the experiences as well as prospects that one encounters while pursuing a career, in addition to individual attributes and traits.

Workers and graduate institutions look for exceptional skills as well as experience, not college hierarchy. As you look around for colleges, inquire about student results, you will notice many colleges that perform better than those that are widely known as the Ivy League of schools.

College Financing Options

Before you enroll for college, you need to find out more about the funding options available. However, do not allow college funding issues blow out your mind. Do not even contemplate shattering your career aspirations because you lack the money. If you have a life that is full of financial challenges then that tells you that your future is even bright. The fabulous news is there are many ways through which you can fund your education and earn yourself that coveted degree. Some of the college funding options includes federal aid, private loans and college scholarships.

Do your Homework and Research

Choosing the best college is not an easy thing, it needs devotion and close attention. Don’t choose a college just because your friends are attending the same school or because it is classified as the best. Such ranking is facial and does not apply when it comes to success. Instead, try to visit online portals to review various colleges and find out more details concerning various colleges. Some of the information that you need to review includes the admission personnel in charge of your region. Contact them through an email and inquire about getting in touch with some of the students from your region. Talk to a few of the students about their views on choosing the same college that you intend to choose. Such a background will help you make informed decisions when choosing a particular college.

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About the Author

GlobalPuzzle.net is a fascinating online puzzle game where you challenge other people by answering amazing questions from the participants in the whole world and earn points throughout the game that will result in fantastic prizes at the end of your journey. Follow @GlobalPuzzle to stay tuned.

High Paying Jobs that Don’t Require a Degree

2013-02-26T16:25:00.001-05:00

Most of us are told at a young age that we need to go to college to make something of ourselves and the message tends to get thoroughly reinforced as we make our way through grade school. The difficult truth many of us find at the end of that road is that college is not for everyone. The high rate of people dropping out, frequently changing majors, or finding a career unrelated to their degree is not something you often hear about in those formative years when everyone seems to be urging you toward college. Fortunately, there are plenty of people who are proving that career success is not necessarily found exclusively in the land of collegiate academia.

Real Estate

In 2011, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that real estate agents average around $39,000 a year. Successful ones in areas of coveted property may make up around the $90,000 mark. There is also the opportunity to become a broker, which averages a much higher salary.

There are courses you can take to prepare you for the testing to receive your license, but they are not required if you wish to study up on your own. Those interested in the field should have good social skills and be able to present themselves well. Being flexible with scheduling is also a must and new real estate agents can expect to struggle to get things going in the beginning.

Commercial Truck Driver
People in this field generally make somewhere around $40,000 a year. There are also opportunities to move up into a higher pay bracket by getting different endorsements on your commercial driver’s license (CDL) or by working into being a trainer.

The amount of time and effort required to work up to taking your CDL test will vary depending on background and preoccupation, but six to eight weeks is probably about average and the test is not easy even for those with some experience operating large vehicles. Training and courses are available, though not required. You will, of course, need to be able to operate a big rig safely and efficiently to pass the road driving portion of the test as well as hit the books fairly hard for the written portion.

If you have a love of driving and are able to deal with long hours of solitude, the job offers a constant change of scenery. The first couple years as a truck driver can be a difficult learning experience, but sticking with it pays off.

Commercial Pilot
Commercial airline pilots average around $50,000 per year, which varies between airlines. There are also opportunities to employ pilot skills in other areas such as cargo piloting, glider tow piloting, and instructing among others.

You will have to log at least 250 hours in private pilot training (usually a small, four-seat aircraft) before beginning the training for commercial certification. Between private and commercial training, working up to commercial flying can be fairly costly, so this may not be the field for those with some money up front.

Those with a strong dream of taking to the skies may find the dedication to become a successful pilot, though the profession is not without its stresses and solitude.

Rail Transportation Worker
Railroad work is still relied upon for transportation of goods and people around the country. Average salary for railroad workers is around $40,000 a year. There is also the opportunity to command a higher salary around $70,000 by working up to locomotive engineer through experience and federal licensing.

Training for rail transportation work is often on the job, but requires a high school diploma and good physical condition, sight, and hearing. If prefer some personal freedom on the job and can deal with a sporadic schedule and the physical demands of the job under varying weather conditions, this may be the path for you.

Personal Trainer
Personal trainers make around $40,000 a year. Some of the most successful ones even clear six figures, though that requires exceptional experience and track records as well as catering to an affluent clientele.

Certification is generally relatively easy to get into personal training and there are a variety of types of certifications and organizations offering them. A strong knowledge base in health and fitness is a must. If you enjoy staying in shape yourself, this may be a good career path, but remember that you also have to be able to get others in great shape that have a variety of physical and lifestyle roadblocks through motivational skills and adaptability.

Massage Therapist
Massage therapists average around $50,000 per year though this is another profession where the pay varies among different areas and clientele.

As with personal training, general certifications for massage therapy are not usually considered difficult,
though states with more regulated practices will offer better job opportunities. Diversifying knowledge of varying techniques is also a good practice for developing a larger base of clients.

Those beginning in massage therapy may struggle to fill hours with clients, but those with good networking skills and personal drive can find themselves at home in this profession.

Though many professions that offer an alternative to college may be attractive even to college bound career seekers, do not be fooled into thinking that finding success in them is easy. The training and licensing required often calls for a higher degree of self-motivation and networking abilities. It may not be difficult to find high paying jobs that don’t require a degree, but it is often difficult to learn of the downsides of these jobs that may make other careers a better choice for certain people. The ideal situation is to have a friend in the industry, but also don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions of strangers and you can find your way on or off the beaten path.

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About the Author

Hank Barton is a second generation trucker-philosopher with a penchant for the written word. Though he has some background in higher learning, he found his way on the open road. He writes for E-Gears, an online CDL practice test authority that specializes in a variety of study guides.

To Tablet or Not Tablet?

2013-02-21T16:46:00.002-05:00

Tablets are closing the user-gap with laptops, and more college students than ever before are choosing to own one. The question is though, are they are right for you?

The answer depends upon whether you prefer portability over power or convenience over storage and whether you use your portable device to create or to consume.

A January 2012 survey of 1,200 college students by the Pearson Foundation found that 25 percent of students owned tablets, a number that had tripled from the year before. Also, 63 percent of the students said they believed tablets will effectively replace textbooks as we know them today within the next five years. And unlike a few years ago when students were limited to Apple’s iPad, there many more tablets to choose from, including Amazon’s Kindle Fire, Google’s Nexus and Microsoft’s Surface.

With a tablet, you can type notes in class or use a stylus to accomplish that same task by actually “writing on the screen.” You can easily stop, surf the Internet to look up information and then instantly go back to note taking mode.

You can also develop spreadsheets, write documents, edit photos and keep track of class times and appointments. A tablet eliminates the need for multiple notebooks on different subjects, and of course, the need to carry around textbooks, assuming that your instructor’s books are available in e-format. And that is just the school stuff.

Tablets can also be used for social media and video conference calling. Viewing movies on a tablet is also a treat because of the high-end screen resolution of many tablets.

Tablets offer a distinct advantage over desktops and laptops, according to Marin Perez, a blogger at IntoMobile. Perez notes that tablets have tremendous battery life and the touch-screen interface creates a strong connection with the user.

“There is also something to be said about the much more mobile form factor that tablets represent – it’s easier to just throw one of these in your bag than it is to transport a laptop,” he said in his blog. Reasons to go the laptop route still exist, however.

Laptops possess more computing power and storage than tablets. Stripped to its essence, if you create more than you consume, you may be more of a laptop person. As examples, blogging involves content management systems that may not function on tablets, or if you have a need to perform detailed graphics art work a plug-in mouse may be the only way to go.

“Many tablet apps lack features that software for laptops and desktops routinely offer,” writes James A. Martin in The Toolkit. “Here’s just one example: The majority of Microsoft Word-compatible tablet apps lack Word’s Track Changes, a feature I often need for document collaboration.”

To narrow down whether to choose a laptop a tablet, Martin recommends making a list of everything you would use your portable device for, whether it’s your studies, work or pleasure. Rank the tasks on how often you perform them and how important they are. Be as detailed as possible, he says. For example, don’t merely list “check e-mail.” If you open and edit e-mail attachments, list that also.

As you compile your list, note which device – laptop or tablet – might be best suited to each task. “Once you’ve finished, you should have a clearer picture of which device you need,” blogs Martin.

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About the Author

Joshua John is the digital strategist for MBA@UNC, the University of North Carolina’s mba online, and MPA@UNC, the University of North Carolina’s mpa degree online. He also loves gadgets, movies, and all things links. Follow him on twitter @joshuavjohn.

What You Should Know When Starting Up a Law Firm

2013-02-19T13:40:00.001-05:00

As you’ve likely been advised, there are a few different routes you can take once you graduate from law school. You could go directly to a law firm and begin your career there, or you could take the road less travelled: starting your own firm. Starting your own law firm can be difficult, but for the entrepreneurial law students, it’s an exciting way to begin your career.

You may be dissuaded from starting your own practice directly out of law school because you believe you won’t have immediate success, and in some cases that may be true. But usually success depends on how you start your business. Check out this article for things you need to know when deciding to start up your own law firm after graduation.

Cost and Supplies
One reason that many recent law student grads like to set up their own law firms is because of the cost. When compared with other small businesses, the costs of operating a law firm tend to be small. And since you likely have some student debt to repay after graduating law school, not having tons of business costs is a great way to get started.
It shouldn’t cost you much to start your law firm, just the cost of supplies and any regulatory permits you may need. Consider that you need a computer, likely a fast laptop, with lots of software to do your accounting, timekeeping, and billing. You’ll also need a printer, copier, scanner combo to make paperwork easier.

Consider that you’ll also need phone and fax service, but you can find both for a bargain. In total, getting the materials to set up your law firm should cost just a few thousand dollars tops. If you rent an office, obviously it will be more.

Marketing
One of the most important things about starting your own law firm is having good marketing, as it could truly make or break your practice. Using YouTube to create legal marketing videos is a good start, but you really need to take it further than that for success.

Try and market as many places as you can, including online, the yellow pages, newsletters, and other places. Have business cards from day one that you can pass out, and really try and get your name out there. If you’ve got the budget for it, consider an outside marketing agency for help, but if you don’t then that’s okay. Recognize that marketing will take significant time for results, but that results will come.

Staff
Initially, you might be able to do everything yourself. But as your law firm grows and you become more successful, you’ll likely have to hire a staff in order to have time to do everything. You really don’t want to spend half your day doing administrative things when you should be trying to earn new business, which is why a few months after you start up you should consider hiring a few staff members. Even interns might work!

Things to Consider Before You Change Majors

2013-02-14T10:07:00.002-05:00

Before you change college majors there are a few things you should know. I myself have been through changing majors and I wish I had known about some of the issues it causes. Here are some vital pieces of information:

Lost credits –First of all, when you change majors many times you will lose some of your hard earned credits. This is especially true if you change to a highly unrelated major. Going from science to English for example will put you far behind your peers who have been in the program for a long time. Is it worth it?
A degree is a degree – I ask if it is worth it because in the eyes of many employers a degree is a degree. Unless you are going for a very education specific job, like chemistry, it does not really matter what degree you get as long as you get one. Someone with an English degree can work as an HR person and someone with an accounting degree can work as a manager. All that matters is that you use that degree to get to the field you want.
Do your research – Before you decide to change majors, ask yourself if it will really help. Do your research and find out how many credits you need on your current major versus your new one. Will it keep you in school forever? Is there a major that falls somewhere in between that will mean less lost credits? If you know what you are getting into before you make a change you will be better off.
Know your options – There are many options besides changing your major. You can talk to your adviser about alternate ways to finish your current major. You can look into interdisciplinary majors that will allow you to keep your credits and do something new. You can even suck it up and finish your major you picked while pursuing other classes as electives. You can use those electives on your resume as evidence that you are qualified for position and even continue on to get a Master’s degree in a totally different field than the one you got your Bachelor’s in.

There are many other options than changing your major, especially when you are more than halfway through. Take your time and seriously consider the effects of the change before you leap into something new. Is it worth it?

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About the Author

Blogging was a natural progression for Allison once she graduated from college, as it allowed her to combine her two passions: writing and children. She has enjoyed furthering her writing career with www.nannyclassifieds.com. She can be in touch through e-mail allisonDOTnannyclassifiedsATgmailDOTcom.

What is the Differences between a Master’s Degree and a Graduate Certificate?

2013-02-14T09:50:00.001-05:00

The world of higher education can be confusing to a lot of people. With so many different kinds of degrees out there, simply understanding what degrees are required for what you want to do in life can be a complicated subject. It’s necessary for your success to understand what opportunities require what accomplishments however, so you should know exactly what is required for the job that you want.

One confusing aspect lies in the differences between post undergraduate school work, particularly the differences between a master’s degree and a graduate certificate. For example, if you want to be an accountant, is it better to get a master’s in accounting, or just enroll in accounting certificate programs? Or do you even need a higher degree at all, since you have the bachelor’s in accounting already?

Every job is going to require something different in terms of certificates or diplomas. It’s important to understand what the difference in those certificates and diplomas is.

Earning a graduate certificate is a much more affordable and quicker option than earning a full on master’s degree. A graduate certificate usually consists of a predetermined number of classes, often times between 3 and 7. This certificate is a great option for a lot of people already working because it can be completed in less than a year, as opposed to a master’s degree that might take at least two years to finish. And just like a master’s degree, you must already have a bachelor’s degree to be eligible to earn a graduate certificate.

Graduate certificates are usually more focused on a specific area than a master’s degree. They are often pursued by people who are looking to advance their career without going back to school for two years, or by people looking for a career change in general. Graduate certificates are also popular for people who need to meet licensing requirements for their occupation.

One of the biggest differences between a master’s degree and a graduate certificate is the cost. For example, an MBA from UCLA costs on average $90,000 while a graduate certificate in business administration from UCLA costs about $5,000. Graduate certificates are much more affordable than full on master’s degrees, in all cases.

Graduate certificates are popular for people as an option to refresh their skills or learn about their changing occupation. An individual who earned his or her marketing degree many years ago may choose to earn a graduate certificate about social media. This lets the person come up to speed on what’s changing in the field without having to quit their job to in order to go back to school to earn an expensive degree.

A graduate certificate might help you get a promotion in your field, but it isn’t as valuable as a master’s degree. Certificates are focused on certain areas of a field, while a master’s degree studies the entire field. A master’s degree will give you more options in your field as a whole, but a graduate certificate will help you get that promotion at your current job. Either way, earning a graduate certificate is a great choice for just about anyone.