College is expensive, and the costs aren't headed down. If you or your children plan to attend a university, it's never too soon to begin putting money away. College savings accounts vary in nature, but each one is a regular deposit plan that helps you keep up with savings goals. Opening a savings account requires a little shopping around, but it's a straightforward, rewarding process.
Instructions
1. Make a decision about the type of college savings plan that works best for you. Many people choose regular savings accounts, but others invest their monthly savings into bonds or other returnable investments.
2. Browse local banks and savings programs online, and speak with bank representatives. This gives you a good idea of the rewards that are available to consumers. As an example, Citizens Bank offers a $1,000 bonus for college savings accounts, if you meet certain conditions.
3. Sign up for a college savings plan. Talk with a bank representative in detail about all the necessary paperwork, and the terms and conditions of the savings plan. You should be comfortable and confident in your arrangements.
4. Work with the bank to meet your account requirements, by setting aside a certain amount of money each month. If you find a great account and stay with the terms, your rewards will follow.
Tags: savings accounts, savings plan, with bank, college savings, college savings plan, plan that
Self-assessments can be used in both professional and personal areas. You can use them to take a solid look at what you do and don't do well. Writing one can sometimes leave a person wondering where to start, but following some simple guidelines will help you make the most out of your assessments.
Purpose of the Assessment
Be clear and concise on why you are writing an assessment. If this is a career assessment, write down what your goals are and in what time frame you hope to accomplish them.
Strengths
Be bold and state your strengths in detail. It is important that you and others know what you do well and how you have contributed to the team.
Weaknesses
Be honest about areas where you are not very strong. Perhaps you are great with people but lousy on computers; everyone has weaknesses so be bold enough to accept yours.
Suggested Improvements
Once you know and accept your weaknesses, you can create a plan on improve upon them (and on your strengths, too). Explain what you can and will do in order to be considered even more valuable than you are.
Comparison
Write down how you fare in performance against others in similar positions. This isn't a time to put others or yourself down, but to honestly state how you measure up.
You're thinking you want to go to medical school. You know there is this MCAT you have to take. And you know that you will need to take certain prereq courses. But how exactly do you impress a medical school admissions committee? There are certain things you can do that will really help win over a med school admissions committee. Read below to find out what those are.
Instructions
1. Get some clinical experience at a hospital or private practice. Medical schools need to see that you are serious about becoming a doctor and consider clinical experience and patient interaction as a very important factor.
2. Take your clinical experience to the next level. Lots of premed students applying to medical school volunteer in a hospital. But not all premed students have meaningful experiences. Make sure that you talk to patients. Ask them about what they think of doctors or what they think you should keep in mind for when you become a doctor. You'll have a much better explanation when asked about it on your application or in your interview.
3. Volunteer in an activity not directly related to medicine. You could teach art in a homeless shelter or play the piano during retirement home dances. Having an activity not related to medicine shows that you are versatile.
4. Take your volunteering experience to the next level. Just about any premed student has done volunteering work. Sticking out to a medical school admissions committee doesn't mean you have to volunteer your life away and participate in a million activities. A great way to stick out is to pick a unique activity that you participate in for a long time - maybe 1 to 2 years.
5. Perform research. This can be clinical research or basic science research. And realize that you don't need a lot of experience to get into research at the undergraduate level.
6. Take your research experience to the next level. Try to stay with the same lab for several years. This will allow you to build a strong relationship with the head of the lab. You will become more trusted and be able to work on more important projects. And you will have a greater chance of getting published. Publications where you are a first or second author are very impressive to an admissions committee. To enhance your research experience, consider doing a paid summer internship at the NIH (see "Resources" section below).
7. Be your own person. This means that you should have several genuine interests that show who you are as an individual rather than as a premed trying to fit the mold of a perfect premed student. Do you like frisbee or yoga? Maybe you enjoy playing in a band. Your personal interests can help you stick out, provided that you shine in the areas previously discussed.
Tags: clinical experience, experience next, experience next level, next level, school admissions, Take your
An object lesson is when you use "visual aids" to enhance a narrative. Simply put, your audience can see the thing in your hand and connect it to the story you're telling. But sometimes the idea is not clear, and you have to lead your group into recognizing the associations. Here's teach an object lesson.
Instructions
1. Find an object. Your object can be anything, from a spoon to a rock to a balloon. You can even pick your object at random: the trick is to know use it to tell a story.
2. Now that you know what object you are using, take some time to brainstorm and free-associate with the object. What does it remind you of? What are its properties? What does it have to tell us about life?
3. Connect your object to an idea you want to share. Lots of object lessons are used in Christian programs, but object lessons can be used for any kind of idea. Make clear connections between what you hold in your hand and the point you are trying to make.
4. Introduce your audience to the object. Start with a narrative about the object that ties it to your main idea.
5. Elicit feedback. The best object lessons require audience involvement. Don't tell, ask. Get audience members to tell you how the object relates to your idea, i.e. "How does this rock fit into the idea of communal living?"
6. Take time for questions and comments. The audience will want to explore this idea further. This is a good opportunity to start a dialogue on the issue at hand. Don't stifle the creativity of your crowd: allow everyone to put in their two cents.
Tags: object lessons, lessons used, object lesson, object lessons used, What does
Grants are available to help young people experience travel.
The availability of travel grants has made it possible for kids to get immersed in other cultures and learn other languages overseas. The article "Recent Poll Says Travel Abroad is Common Among Teens" published by Reading Eagle (Reference 1) claims that one in four teens have traveled overseas. Getting a travel grant takes time and extensive research.
Travel Grants
A travel grant is free money to pay for transportation and other expenses when you travel overseas. Not every kid can afford traveling abroad, but some may be eligible to apply for a grant to volunteer, study or work in a foreign country. Eligibility requirements vary according to the organization that gives the grant; in the United States, these grants are generally given to American citizens who demonstrate financial need, speak the language of the foreign country and are interested in the activities the program supports.
Grant for International Volunteerism
Nonprofit organizations such as Global Aware and Cross-Cultural Solutions offer the opportunity for young people to volunteer abroad. They partner with Travelocity (see Resources) to give travel grants for up to $5,000 when you volunteer overseas to help communities in need or help solve environmental issues. You need to be at least 18 years old to apply on your own; minors are eligible only if they travel under the supervision of an adult. You may apply online and demonstrate your volunteering history.
Grant to Work Overseas
The article "Winning a Grant to Work Overseas" published by Transitions Abroad (see Reference 2) suggests that with hard work and good writing skills, you might be eligible for a grant to work overseas. Seeking founders takes many hours of research. Some organizations require a letter of inquiry (LOI) and others a full proposal to apply. Stick to the rules and deadlines. Organizations such as InterExchange Foundation (See Resources) awards grants for $1,500 to pay for transportation, fees, housing and meals to work abroad. You need to be at least 18 years old to apply for this grant.
Grant to Study Overseas
"Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Foundation Act" published by NAFSA, the Association of International Educators (see Reference 3), addresses the need for undergraduate students to study abroad and learn about the world. The need for globally informed American citizens promotes the creation of programs to assist students get involved in the world. Organizations such as Fulbright (see Resources) have grants available for undergraduate students to travel abroad to study or do research.
Other Travel Grants for Kids
There are grants for specific group of kids. For example, The Central Agency for Jewish Education (see Resources) gives $3,000 grants for Jewish teens (9th to 11th grade students) in St. Louis to travel to Israel; teens should share their experience when they return and participate in the St. Louis Jewish communal activities.
Tags: American citizens, foreign country, Grant Work, least years, least years apply, need least, need least years
Online degrees have become a popular and flexible way to earn a college education. As more students enroll in online classes, more teachers are needed.
Post-graduate Degree
Most online colleges require their faculty to have earned a post-graduate degree, such as a Master's degree, Doctorate degree or Juris Doctor (law degree).
Experience in Subject Matter
Online faculty must have extensive experience in the subjects that they teach online. Most online colleges prefer that faculty members continue working in the subject area that they are teaching.
Computer Skills
To teach online classes, you must have strong computer skills. You need to be familiar with message boards and proficient in Microsoft Office.
Good Online Interpersonal Skills
Because interactions with students are through a computer screen, you must be able to communicate effectively in writing. You must have good "Netiquette" to teach online classes.
Time Commitment
While teaching online classes is flexible, most online colleges impose strict deadlines, such as responding to student inquiries within 24 hours. You must commit to meeting these deadlines.
Tags: must have, online classes, online colleges, teach online, Most online, Most online colleges
Many individuals seeking a new career path join a physical therapy assistant program. As a Physical Therapy Assistant, you will help patients through the rehabilitation process. Patients are recovering from all types of situations including strokes, back pain, head injuries and burns. But to become a physical therapy assistant, you must complete a physical therapy assistant program.
Instructions
1. Locate a program in your area. The first step in becoming a physical therapy assistant is finding a program in your area. All Allied Health Schools has a list of accredited programs nationwide. Find a few programs in your area to investigate.
2. Apply to programs. Once you've identified a few programs, complete applications for admissions. Some programs admit annually, while others accept new students more frequently. Contact the admissions office to ensure you meet application deadlines.
3. Apply for financial aid. If you need financial assistance, complete the Federal Application for Student Aid. This application can qualify you for federal loans and grants and is easy to complete online.
4. Consider securing scholarships. Each education institution you apply to has unique scholarship programs. If you are looking to secure financial assistance, meet with each financial aid counselor to explore which scholarships you may qualify for.
5. Get some extra experience. If you are applying to a competitive program, you can set your application apart by securing volunteer experience. This will also look good on your resume when applying to physical therapy assistant jobs after graduation. Contact physical therapy practices in your area and offer your services.
Tags: physical therapy assistant, your area, physical therapy, program your, therapy assistant, Assistant Program
If you are searching for grants to help you pay for nursing school, start looking at national, state and municipal agencies. There are also public and private foundations, family foundations, corporate charities and individual endowments. Here are some steps toward success as you pursue payment for the journey toward becoming a nurse.
Instructions
1. Make sure you qualify for the nursing grant you chose. Grant-givers will be very specific about what they are looking for. Do not twist the reality. If in doubt about qualification, draft a letter of inquiry or give them a call (with all key issue points written out in advance).
2. Put together the request and arrange the table of contents to clearly follow the grant giver's stated guidelines. Have interesting, entertaining and concise templates written coming in, but then use them in the grant-giving body's stated order. Always remember that this grant request is one of many applications. Find a way to look exceptional.
3. Prepare a supplemental materials section, including letters of recommendation highlighting your volunteer hospital experience and, perhaps, a video or DVD introduction (don't submit it if it is amateurish).
4. Check deadlines. Leave time to read and re-read the finished request. Pretend to be the foundation or donor and list what is off-putting and grounds for rejection. Re-write the request to answer these reasons. What makes you the exceptional nursing student? Have an objective supporter read the grant request and point out where there is a lack of clarity.
5. Prepare in advance. Research funding sources on a regular basis; new opportunities always surface. Write to experts in the nursing field and get guidelines. Expand your eligibility constantly and keep grades high. Stay active in extracurricular activities; ask for letters of recommendation. But remember: it is never too late. Once nursing becomes your chosen work, it is more than possible to erase a lackluster past and build an exceptional future and get funded to reach that goal.
Based on 1997 amendments to the Individuals With Disabilities Act (IDEA), public-school administrators and special educators are required to assess and evaluate the need for behavior intervention or modification plans for students with disabilities whose behavior impedes their learning or the learning of classmates. Below you will find a brief introduction to assessing negative behavior and creating interventions to correct negative behavior in the classroom.
Instructions
1. Identify the inappropriate behavior in concrete terms, naming it with verbs in the present tense. For example: "The student pushes other students when walking in line to and from activities outside of the classroom."
2. Assess the behavior directly. Observe the student in different settings and note where the behavior does and does not occur.
3. Document specific actions prior to the onset of the behavior, during the behavior and as a consequence of the behavior.
4. Assess the behavior indirectly. Interview the student and other teachers concerning the behavior and situations prior to and following the behavior.
5. Consider all observations and interviews when devising the intervention program.
6. Decide if the student displays similar or different behavior in various settings and if the same stimuli (teacher directions, setting or workload) result in similar behavior.
7. Determine what the student avoids or gets as a result of the behavior. If the student makes irrelevant comments when the teacher asks him or her to read aloud, then the student avoids reading and gets teacher and peer attention.
8. Create an intervention plan addressing the specific skill or performance deficits that the student displays with the negative behavior.
9. Make changes in the difficulty level of instruction and materials to address skill deficits.
10. Address performance deficits by making changes in the classroom setting and eliminating outside distractions. Try moving the student's seat to a quieter area of the classroom.
11. Offer explicit and intense instruction on appropriate ways to receive teacher or peer attention.
12. Evaluate the intervention system immediately. Keep anecdotal records of the student's behavior or graph the occurrence or nonoccurrence of the behavior to keep track of the effectiveness of the intervention.
There are college scholarships for students over 30.
While most college students are in the 18-to-24-year-old age group, it is not unusual to see adults over 30 years of age on campus. These non-traditional students are subject to the same tuition costs as any student. Fortunately, many scholarships, fellowships and grant programs do not have age restrictions. Following are three scholarships for which students over the age of 30 can apply, along with suggestions about find additional money for college.
Orville Redenbacher Second Start Scholarship
As its name indicates, this scholarship is sponsored by the popcorn company. It is a $1,000 award for students over the age of 30 who are either returning to college to complete a degree or who are first-time college students. Applicants can be either a full-time student or a part-time student. Students can obtain an application form by writing to:
Orville Redenbacher Second Start Scholarship Program
Box 4137
Blair, NE 68009
Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship Program
This $1,000 scholarship award is available to any high school student, college undergraduate or graduate student or any returning adult student. Students can apply online and they must submit a personal statement of no more than 250 words, addressing one of three topic choices listed on the website.
$1,000 Gen and Kelly Tanabe Student Scholarship
3286 Oak Court
Belmont, CA 94002
650-618-2221
http://www.gkscholarship.com
C.I.P. Scholarship
Sponsored by College Is Power, this $1,500 award is available to high school seniors, college undergraduate and graduate students or non-traditional adult students. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Applicants must plan to attend a two-year or four-year college and can be enrolled as a full-time, part-time or online student. The scholarship application is available online and includes a 150-word essay addressing, "What is your No. 1 goal for going to school?"
SuperCollege.com
Scholarship Dept. 673
3286 Oak Court
Belmont, CA 94002
http://www.supercollege.com/scholarship
Tips for Finding Scholarships
Aspiring college students of any age should begin the scholarship search process by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form to determine what, if any, government assistance is available. Federal financial assistance is not restricted by age, and the over-30 student may be eligible to receive some money from the government.
Non-traditional students should also contact their college's financial aid office to determine what awards are available from the school. Most colleges limit their scholarship awards to students working toward their first bachelor's degree. However, many schools will waive that restriction for students who are returning to school to earn another degree in preparation for a career change.
Finally, all college students should conduct a scholarship search using one of the many free scholarship search engines available online. College-Scholarships.com lists about 40 free online search sites. Each site maintains its own database of scholarship information, so students should consider registering with several sites.
Tags: college students, students should, scholarship search, students over, 3286 Court
Forensic anthropologists, who are experts on human skeletons, work in the criminal justice field. They help locate and recover human remains, solve murder cases and identify missing persons. They use scientific techniques to help determine information (such as sex, age or height) about skeletal remains. This occupation requires intensive training on a continuous basis because forensic anthropologists must keep up with technological advances in the field.
Instructions
1. Earn a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, forensic science or physical anthropology. Take classes that provide laboratory experience--such as science, statistics and quantitative analysis--and become computer literate.
2. Complete specialized training in forensic anthropology. Earn a master's degree or Ph.D. in the field or go through specialized training with the American Board of Forensic Anthropology (ABFA). This non-profit organization was established in 1977 to provide a certification program in forensic anthropology.
3. Decide what type of law enforcement organization--local, state or federal--you would like to work in and make sure that you meet the requirements for employment. City or town police departments offer the most job opportunities.
4. Look for job openings in the specific organization, such as the FBI, that you wish to work for.
5. Join professional organizations such as the American Academy of Forensic Scientists. You can learn of job opportunities as well as keep up with current events in the forensics field.
6. Develop your analytical skills and keep abreast of technological advances in scientific techniques to remain at the top of the field.
7. Consider a teaching position in forensic anthropology when you reach a high level of expertise.
Business owners must fill out a different set of tax forms based on their situation. Fill out Form 1065 if you are part of a business partnership. The form is supplied by the Internal Revenue Service and must be filed with that agency. Form 1065, also called the U.S. Return of Partnership Form, reports any income, gains, losses, credits and deductions you may have incurred from being part owner of a business. Like other tax forms, Form 1065 is due by April 15 of the filing year.
Instructions
1. Place the label sticker from the form package if the form was mailed to you from the IRS, in the top section. If the form wasn't mailed to your or the label information isn't correct, print the principal business activity, principal product or service, business code number, name of the partnership, address, city, state, ZIP code, EIN (Employer Identification Number), the date the business was started and the total assets.
2. Check the type of return you are filing in Section G. The options are "Initial return," "Final return," "Name change," "Address change," "Amended return" and "Technical termination."
3. Write your accounting method (cash, accrual or other) in Section H.
4. Write the amount of Schedules K-1 you will be filing on line I. You must attach a Schedule K-1 for each partner in the business for the tax year. Check the box on line J if you are attaching schedules C and M-3 along with the 1065 form.
5. Enter in the income information on lines 1 through 8 in the "Income" section. Write in the gross receipts or sales on line 1a. Write in the amount of any returns and allowances on line 1b. Subtract line 1b from 1a and write the amount on line 1c. Enter the amount of cost of goods sold from line 8 of the "Schedule A" form on line 2. Subtract line 2 from line 1c and write the amount on line 3; this is your gross profit. Write any ordinary income from other businesses, partnerships, estates and trusts on line 4. Write in the net profit from a farm on line 5. Write in the net gain from the 4797 form on line 6. Write any other income you have on line 7. Calculate the total from lines 3 through 7 and write it on line 8; this is your total income.
6. Calculate your deductions. Write in wages paid to employees of the business, other than partners, on line 9. Write in partners' payments and wages in line 10. Write in expenses from repairs and maintenance done to the business location on line 11. Write in the amount of bad debts that the business incurred during the tax year on line 12. Write in the total amount of rent paid for the business location on line 13. Write in the amount business paid for taxes and licenses on line 14. Write in the amount of interest paid on business loans and credit accounts on line 15.
Calculate depreciation for the business equipment and vehicles and write it on lines 16a, 16b and 16c. Write in expenses for depletion, retirement plans, employee benefit programs and other deductions on lines 17 through 20. Add all of the lines together and write the amount on line 21. Subtract line 21 from line 8 and write it on line 22.
7. Sign and date the form at the bottom. If an outside paid preparer is filing the form for you, have her sign in the section under your signature. Check "Yes" in the box next to your name if you authorize the IRS to discuss the form with the preparer.
8. Calculate the cost of goods sold in the "Schedule A" section. Use your accounting records and books for this information.
9. Enter in the information about the business (type of entity, partnership information and information of all of the businesses included in the partnership) in the "Schedule B" section of the form.
10. Calculate the income, deductions, self-employment information, credits, foreign transactions, Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) items and other information in the "Schedule K - Partners' Distributive Share Items" section of the form.
11. Refer to your accounting books and records to fill in the "Schedule L - Balance Sheets per Books" section of the form. You will have to record your assets, liabilities and working capital.
12. Fill in the "Schedule M-1" section of the form if you didn't attach the "Schedule M-3" form. Write in expenses that you currently owe, depreciation incurred and travel and entertainment expenses.
Tags: Form 1065, line Write, section form, amount line, Fill Form, Fill Form 1065
Political science degrees prepare students to become active citizens and to analyze political behavior. Interested students can pursue degrees in political science at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The University of Michigan was one of the first universities in the country to establish a department solely for the study of politics, according to the school website.
Undergraduate Degrees
Political science is the study of politics and government. Students can obtain undergraduate degrees in political science at many colleges across the country. Also important to note, political scientists describe and explain various political systems using modern analytical tools. The skills developed in writing critical essays, writing research reports and evaluating various authors can be used for careers that demand "critical thinking , well-documented analysis, and forceful expression," according to University of Michigan. Some schools, such as Arizona State University, offer an online Bachelor of Arts degree in political science, according to OnlineEducation.net.
Graduate Degrees
Many students who have a bachelor's degree in political science pursue graduate or professional degrees, especially law school. Students can obtain a Ph.D. in political science. For those interested in teaching the subject, a graduate degree will help enhance and strengthen knowledge in the field. Similarly, students interested in a government career can earn a master's degree in public policy, as University of Michigan suggests.
Careers
With a bachelor's or master's degree in political science, a graduate can start a career in government service, in university or community college teaching, in law or in business. Other possible careers include a city planner, customs officer, immigration officer or a political commentator. Graduates can also explore careers as journalists, teachers, or policy analysts, according to the American Political Science Association. For instance, the United Nations and international businesses want people "who understand the problems of our increasing economic and political interdependence," according to Lee University.
Internships
University political science departments often recommend that students serve internships to explore career interests and to gain real-world experience. Common internships for those pursuing political science include internships with government entities, including the U.S. Senate or U.S. House of Representatives, according to the Duke University website. For students who want to pursue careers in international politics, many colleges, such as the University of Michigan, offer programs that enable students to study overseas and work for governments in other countries.
Tags: political science, University Michigan, degree political, degree political science, according University, degrees political
Montreal Canada has a number of Christian schools.
Montreal has a number of Christian schools that specialize in primary, secondary and post-secondary academics. Some Christian schools in Montreal are non-denominational, inter-denominational, Catholic and Presbyterian. All are accredited and supported by the Christian community. The chief purpose of Montreal's Christian schools is to give students a faith-based education, and to educate them with a curriculum that reflects the Christian theology.
Emmanuel Christian School
The Emmanuel Christian School, located just southeast of Montreal's Rivière des Prairies (the Back River), educates children from kindergarten and up through the school's bilingual elementary. Grades continue through sixth and up to high school.
The Emmanuel Christian School is an inter-denominational Christian school, meaning it does not align itself with just one Christian denomination but all of them. The school is accredited by the Quebec Ministry of Education. Children are required to wear a uniform and attend Bible courses several times a week.
Emmanuel Christian School
4698 Boulevard Saint Jean
Dollard des Ormeaux
Montreal QC H9H4S5, Canada
514-696-6430
emmanuelchristianschool.qc.ca
Sacred Heart School of Montreal
The Sacred Heart School of Montreal is located next to Montreal's National Soccer School. The Sacred Heart School of Montreal is an all-girls independent Catholic secondary school. The school prides itself on the ability to academically challenge students, while teaching a curriculum that reflects Christian values and philosophy.
The Sacred Heart School of Montreal admits students from all denominations and faiths, and invites family members to participate with the student in weekly mass. The school allows students to receive college-level credits with the school's enhanced learning college-level course program, which is offered in a variety of subjects.
The Sacred Heart School of Montreal
3635 Atwater Avenue
Montreal, QC H3H 1Y4 Canada
514-937-2845
sacredheart.qc.ca
Cedar Christian Academy
The Cedar Christian Academy is a nonprofit Christian elementary and secondary school, located on Montreal's West Island. The school shares its grounds with the Fairview Alliance Church, the Christian and Missionary Alliance congregation and the Persian Alliance Church of Montreal.
Opened in 1992, the Cedar Christian Academy teaches students a Christian-based self-paced curriculum that allow students to work up to their own individual potential.
Cedar Christian Academy
220, Rue Hyman Dollard-des-Ormeaux,
Montreal, QC H9B 1L8, Canada
514-684-2253
cedarchristianacademy.org
The Presbyterian College
The Presbyterian College is located at McGill University, between the United Theological College and the Montreal Diocesan Theological College (MDTC). The college is a Presbyterian post-secondary Christian college that offers students a number of divinity degrees. The college is in association with the Presbyterian Church in Canada and McGill University Faculty of Religious Studies, and is in cooperation with the University of Montreal Faculty of Theology. It is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools. Admissions are open to students that hold a bachelor's degree or higher and have a letter of recommendation from an attending Christian church.
The Presbyterian College
3495 University Street
Montreal, QC H3A 2A8, Canada
514-288-5256
presbyteriancollege.ca
Tags: Heart School, Heart School Montreal, Sacred Heart, Sacred Heart School, School Montreal
Obtaining a student loan can help you to pay for the cost of tuition, books and other necessities for college. However, as with any other financial loan, there is a process involved in getting it, one that depends on your overall credit portfolio. In some instances, a co-signer may be necessary to obtain the loan. Finding the right person to cosign your student loan is important, as you are tied to this person until the debt has been paid off.
Instructions
1. Determine the terms of the loan with a cosigner so you are clear about what's on the table when you make your approach. It is likely that a cosigner is going to have questions about the loan amount, the company loaning you the money, the interest rate, repayment terms and more. The more of this information you have upfront, the better prepared you will seem, which in turns makes you look much more responsible.
2. Gather evidence of your good character and fiscal responsibility. Anyone cosigning a loan for you is going to want to be sure you will pay it back. Provide a copy of your credit report and be prepared to explain any discrepancies. You may also need to provide other financial statements, such as bank statements or current account statements, to show that you pay your bills and can maintain this kind of responsibility.
3. Ask a member of your family. This is the first group of people to approach when looking for a cosigner, because they are most likely to help you. Starting with a parent or guardian, ask if he would be willing to cosign your student loan and provide him with all of your information. Be prepared to answer questions and wait days for a decision, as it is often not one that is easily made, given the depth of the financial commitment.
4. Ask a close friend if none of your family members can or will cosign. In many instances, a friend, particularly one who is also going to school, might be more willing to do it because she understands the importance of getting a loan to pay your college tuition. However, be prepared for the same reaction as in Step 3, especially if the amount involved is large.
5. Request help from a boss or co-worker. This might be the most uncomfortable request of all, because in most instances you don't know the person as well as a friend or family member, and you are asking for financial assistance. However, if this is your only shot at paying your tuition and if your boss or colleague knows you are a trustworthy person, it's worth asking.
Tags: cosign your, cosign your student, other financial, student loan, your family, your student, your student loan
Your approach to college may affect your life goals and possibly the success in your future career. It will be an entirely new experience. The study habits that procured enrollment in college will be honed and refined. You will encounter fresh ideas and foreign information. Endurance and determination will be tested. Your independence will be earned. A commitment to succeed in college is both exhilarating and achievable.
Clarify Your Goals
College requires an investment of your time, energy and finances. To get the most out of your venture you must have a clear path. Before heading off to college clarify your goals. Determine what you want to put into college and what you desire to glean from the experience. Realize that exposure to new circumstances may cause you to alter your direction. Have a clear plan that allows for flexibility.
Learn Time Management
Juggling classes, assignments and commitments will require more than your memory or a notepad. Take advantage of the technology you already carry with you and install an effective daily planner or productivity application on your favorite gadget. If you resist electronics pick up a daily planner at an office supply store. Choose a planner you can carry with you to jot down appointments, activities and assignments throughout the day.
Strategize Your Course Schedule
Structure your program with your college adviser.
Get to know your college adviser. With his help determine the courses necessary to accomplish your educational goals. Complete required courses first. Often these basic courses will inspire a slightly new direction. Structure your program to take courses in logical or required order. Take note of courses that are difficult to get into or that are offered at irregular intervals. Include these peculiarities into your plan. Realize your daily and weekly limits. While planning the days and hours of your class time, be sure to allow yourself time to complete coursework and meet your other commitments.
Organize Your Assignments
College assignments can be more intense and time-consuming than those you completed in high school. Preparation is key. Obtain course syllabi in advance whenever possible. Mark assignment due dates in your daily planner and block out time to complete them. Allow time for required reading and to write and rewrite papers. With a heavy course load, assignments can become quite burdensome. Allow yourself short breaks and plan to alternate subjects as you complete your work. A change in focus can refresh the mind better than a cup of coffee. Use the campus library and other resources provided by your college; this will save you time and money.
Manage Your Budget
While attending college you should maintain a two-fold focus on your budget. College is expensive and many students rely on financial aid, grants and scholarships to fund the education. Do not let this privilege become a curse on your future. Regulate the funds you borrow and maintain debt at a minimum. Life during college also must be provided for. Calculate your monthly allowance for necessities. Consult your college registrar's tuition and fee information when computing your monthly budget. Determine how monthly expenses will be met. Resolve to stick to your budget.
Take Care of You
Eat nutritious meals, including fruits and vegetables.
One of the biggest hurdles to overcome in the college years is being responsible for your own care. Staying healthy is imperative for success in college. Eat nutritious meals and avoid fast food. Get adequate sleep. Coffee and energy drinks are not sleep substitutes. Use the health and counseling resources provided by your college. If you are away keep in touch with those at home.
Tags: your college, daily planner, carry with, college adviser, nutritious meals, provided your
Christian nursing scholarships lessen the blow of higher education costs.
The charitable principles of Christianity go hand-in-hand with the day-to-day realities of a career in nursing. Nurses play second fiddle to doctors in a near thankless position while handling the bulk of interpersonal relationships and patient care. Scholarships allow Christian students looking to live a life of charity through nursing to receive a nursing education free of financial burden.
Cedarville University
Ohio's Cedarville University offers a number of scholarships to Christians, including a handful of nursing-specific financial aid awards. The Autio Family Scholarship awards an average of $1,500 annually to six nursing students who are able to demonstrate their understanding of and passion for what it means to be a Christian in the nursing job market. The Dorothy Hilma Leininger Nursing Scholarship will award $1,500-$4,000 to students who demonstrate active and exemplary Christian principles. Cedarville's Christian Service and Academic Excellence Award is available to students of any discipline, nursing included, who demonstrate active and faithful Christian activity and a GPA of 3.3 or higher.
Cedarville University
251 N. Main St.
Cedarville, OH 45314
800-233-2784
cedarville.edu
Butterfield Memorial Foundation
The Butterfield Memorial Foundation of Oklahoma awarded six grants, in the amount of $50,000 each, to Christian Council for Colleges and Universities schools in an effort to fund the education of Christian nursing students. The schools awarded grants are Azusa Pacific University, MidAmerica Nazarene University, Oklahoma Wesleyan University, Seattle Pacific University, Southern Nazarene University, and Roberts Wesleyan College. The scholarships will be made available for both the 2010-11 and 2011-12 academic years. For further information, contact the school nursing departments:
Azusa Pacific
626-815-5386
apu.edu
MidAmerica Nazarene
913-971-3384
mnu.edu
Oklahoma Wesleyan
866-668-6834
okwu.edu
Seattle Pacific
spu.edu
206-281-2233
Southern Nazarene
405-789-6400
snu.edu
Robert Wesleyan
585-594-6330
roberts.edu
Good Samritan Foundation
The Good Samaritan Foundation is a Texas-based Christian organization that provides scholarships for nursing students of all stripes, Christians included, attending school in Texas. Students studying for a certificate, Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD at schools like Abilene Christian University and Jarvis Christian College are eligible for the scholarship. Candidates approved through an application and interview process will be awarded a scholarship sufficient for covering the costs of tuition, books, and registration fees. Applications are accepted throughout the year.
Good Samaritan Foundation
5615 Kirby Drive, Suite 610
Houston, Texas 77005
713-529-464
gsftx.org
Tags: Cedarville University, nursing students, awarded grants, Azusa Pacific, Butterfield Memorial, Butterfield Memorial Foundation, Christian nursing
Structured Query Language (SQL) is a computer programming language used to store and update information from servers connected to networks, file systems, content management systems or even spreadsheets. SQL server data mining specialists retrieve this information, sometimes storing and updating it as well. They can train in several ways.
Education
While a high school diploma can sometimes be enough to obtain a position in the SQL data administration field, many companies favor candidates who have received post-secondary training--either from a trade school or four-year university. Those aiming to specialize in SQL often concentrate on courses in math, computer engineering, computer science, database management and telecommunications.
Certification
Certification programs are a form of training for SQL data mining specialists--and can sometimes lead to opportunities for advancement. These programs generally take anywhere from one day to two weeks to complete. Some are even available online. Most certification programs consist of coursework, study materials and a final examination.
On the Job
SQL data mining specialists often receive their best training while on the job, where they learn the specifics of their craft under the direction of training managers or other administrators. Some companies even offer workshops.
Tags: data mining, data mining specialists, mining specialists
Paralegals with a degree can gain experience in several venues.
No formal state or national requirements exist to work as a paralegal, also called a legal assistant. The industry itself is unregulated. It is the hiring attorney in charge of providing training and oversight who is to regulate the paralegal, according to the American Bar Association. Some attorneys are willing to hire a paralegal with no working legal experience, but the best jobs tend to go to candidates with education and on-the-job experience. Having any type of college degree is a good start for establishing a career as a paralegal.
Instructions
1. Enroll in a paralegal certificate program that includes a working internship. Many schools offer these programs in the practical application of legal principles. Working for an attorney or law firm helps future paralegals get real-world experience.
2. Register with a staffing agency specializing in legal placements. These recruiters often receive job orders from entities willing to interview an experienced candidate with the right kind of background and education. They can help you get temporary or contract work as a paralegal which can often turn into full-time employment.
3. Contact a local Legal Aid office. Let them know you have a degree and are interested in learning more about working as a legal assistant. Offer to work as a volunteer a couple days a week. Legal Aid assists many people each year with routine legal matters. The organization always has a need for volunteers, and a would-be paralegal can gain solid experience with them.
4. Inform your friends and family about your desire to gain working paralegal experience. Often, finding a job is as much about whom you know as what you know. Someone's attorney, uncle or brother-in-law may be looking for summer help, so make sure to tell as many people as you can that you are looking for a legal assistant position.
5. Prepare a resume and cover letter that highlights your education as well as any administrative work experience--legal and non-legal--that you have. Put together a one-page cover letter outlining the reasons you would be an excellent paralegal. Send this letter and the resume to any entry-level paralegal positions that you find advertised in your area. Follow up three days later with a phone call to the hiring manager and try scheduling an interview.
Tags: legal assistant, cover letter, many people, work paralegal, working legal
To hire the right RN for the job, be specific about your needs and requirements.
Registered nurses provide patient care in several practice settings. Some specialize in a particular area of nursing such as home care, community health, pediatrics or critical care. Hiring the right type of nurse depends on understanding your needs. Qualifications vary, as do levels of practice. All registered nurses must be licensed, but not all are certified in specialty areas. According to the American Journal of Critical Care, certification offers formal recognition of specialized skills.
Instructions
1. Contact a nursing agency. Nursing agencies screen registered nurses for assignments. Background checks, certifications, references and licensing verifications are completed. Nurses are assigned based on the needs of clients.
2. Contact a nursing school. Most colleges offer career placement services to students and frequently receive requests to fill nursing positions with new RN graduates. This works well for entry-level general nursing assignments, including home care, hospital care and skilled nursing. Ask the school to arrange an interview with applicants. Inquire about applicants' academic performance and previous health care experience. The best time to approach schools is in the early spring or fall.
3. Check with nursing organizations. Inquire about posting a job announcement on the organization's website. Nursing organizations consist of large numbers of nurses who agree to ethical principles as a condition of membership. Nursing organizations also emphasize continuing education, offering additional certifications to members who qualify on the basis of experience and other factors. Choose this path if you are looking to fill a specialty RN position, such as a critical-care nurse or nurse midwife. The American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, the American Association of Critical Care Nurses and the American Association of Nurse Midwives are examples.
Tags: American Association, American Association Nurse, Association Nurse, Contact nursing, Critical Care, home care
The reading comprehension questions in the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) question your understanding of the content and style of specific reading passages. Reading comprehension questions are the most time demanding questions in the SAT critical reading section. Some reading passages can take up to 15 minutes. Your readings throughout high school will prove helpful in preparing for the reading comprehension questions.
Instructions
1. Read all the time. Reading is the best way to prepare for the SAT reading comprehension questions. The SAT usually uses passages from novels and texts that are on high school reading lists.
2. Read the whole SAT reading comprehension passage. Do not skip ahead and try to answer the questions before reading the passage. Reading the questions first will lessen your capability to focus on the reading passage.
3. Make notes on scratch paper as you read. Write down the writing style, main topic and key points.
4. Write down the beginning words of sentences or paragraphs that contain main points. This will provide you with quick reference points within the passage for the questions to come.
5. Refer back to the reading comprehension passage when choosing an answer. Do not rely too heavily on your memory.
6. Answer practice reading comprehension questions or take practice SAT tests. Practice questions can be found in SAT study guides and online. SAT practice tests will allow you to practice under test-like conditions.
Tags: reading comprehension, reading comprehension questions, comprehension questions, comprehension passage, comprehension questions, high school
High school graduates need a copy of their transcripts when applying to colleges.
If you are not heading straight off to a college or technical school after finishing high school, you may have just filed your transcript away with your other papers. If you want to attend college at a later date and can't locate your high school transcripts, getting additional copies should not be a problem, especially if your high school has a comprehensive website.
Instructions
1. Go to your high school's website using a search engine. See if you can find the page with information about obtaining copies of transcripts. This page may be under the heading "Services" or "Academics."
2. Fill out the applicable form if you find the transcript page on the website. You'll likely have to supply your name, place and date of birth, Social Security number, parents' names, month and year of graduation, and the address for where the transcript will be sent. Typically, you'll be required to print it out and either mail or fax the request to the school, though some schools allow email requests. You may have to pay a fee depending on how many copies you want.
3. Obtain the phone number for the school's administrative office on the website if you're unable to find a transcript page on the website.
4. Call the school and ask to speak to someone about getting a copy of your high school transcript. Explain that you need it for registering for college or a technical school.
5. Follow all the instructions you are given. You may have to fax or mail copies of your birth certificate and driver's license.
6. See if the admissions office of the college or technical school you plan to attend will make the calls necessary to get copies of your transcript. This may be an alternative to doing it yourself.
Tags: your high school, college technical, college technical school, high school, technical school, your high, copies your
Fashion design is one of the most challenging professions in an industry notorious for its rather competitive and even cut-throat nature. The workload you must undertake to becoming a good, successful fashion designer can be quite daunting. To make it in the fashion industry requires not only a solid knowledge of fashion but also creative talent and tremendous perseverance. Whether you aspire to design your own label or to work in a major design house, with much hard work, dedication, and an optimistic outlook, you may very well see your designs strutting down those glamorous runways.
Instructions
1. Clip fashion inspirations. Sift through all your favorite fashion magazines and cut out images that you find inspirational and tack them onto your cork board. Keep the board in an area where it will be consistently visible. Continue to update or refresh your board whenever new inspirations or ideas arise. In addition, maintain a portfolio or folder with other magazine clippings and make a habit of taking this folder with you wherever you go, in case you find yourself inspired while outdoors or in public places.
2. Research fashion companies and brands. Understand what each company and/or brand specializes in terms of fashion category (footwear, accessories, junior wear, sportswear) and style. Get a general idea of the history behind these brands. Cut out designs of your favorite designer brands from magazines and add them into your "inspirational" portfolio.
3. Research and keep updated on fashion trends. Visit fashion news websites, such as womensweardaily.com or style.com, and keep informed on the latest fashion trends, collections, and markets. Review current designer collections for the upcoming season, and practice forecasting what the next season's trends will be.
4. Enroll in an art class and/or practice general sketching and drawing. Understand the basic concepts of drawing, and if possible, take classes where you can sketch real-life models to get a solid idea of the human body's true form; this will help when it comes time to understand the concepts of draping fabric for designs. Also study color theory ,how colors relate, and what colors to mix to get your desired hue.
5. Obtain a mannequin to drape and fit your designs. Once you have a good idea about drapery, begin putting your knowledge and designs to the test by purchasing your desired fabrics, and practice on pinning and draping them onto your mannequin, while observing how they fit the body. If you don't consider yourself a great sketcher, pin the clothing you've designed, sew them onto your mannequin or take measurements of your mannequin and use a sewing machine to create your garments. Then, dress your mannequin and take snapshots of each look with your digital camera, and import them into your computer.
6. Enroll in professional training courses or programs specializing in fashion design, merchandising, and marketing. Research trade schools or fashion schools that offer valuable professional training and fashion industry know-how. Find schools that teach you not only fashion design or master a sewing machine, but also merchandise and market your work, because these other skills are crucial towards becoming a successful fashion designer.
7. Seek a fashion design internship. If you're enrolled in a fashion design program, inquire with your school's internship or career services office, or an instructor about fashion design internships that are available nearby. In the fashion industry, internships are very important and often times required in order to attain your dream job. If your school has a study abroad program, you may even have the opportunity to intern for a design house in Paris or Milan.
8. Build your portfolio of designs and resume. Upon graduation, you should have built a solid portfolio of your best work. Along with your sketches and photographs of your designs, a great portfolio will also include sample garments. Ideally, your professional portfolio should be 14"x17."
9. Commit diligently to your first job. Attaining your first paying job is exciting, so consider this opportunity as another crucial learning process and way to gain industry contacts.
10. Continue to clip images, sketch, and design during off-work hours. Even though your job may provide you with a rewarding experience, you should never stop building inspiration and creating new ideas for your future designs.
11. Maintain your contacts and always network. The fashion industry is not just what you know, but also who you know. If you want to succeed as a good fashion designer, you have to create great designs and also to market yourself. You'll be surprised how small the fashion community is so if you work hard enough, gain contacts, people will catch on and show interest in your work.
Tags: fashion design, fashion industry, your mannequin, onto your, them onto, them onto your, with your
The faculty of law at the University of British Columbia offers one of the largest legal programs in the country, a three-year Juris Doctor (J.D.), that prepares student for careers in the law profession or in business, politics, government or academia. Requirements for entrance into the J.D. program include obtaining an undergraduate degree and passing the standardized Law School Admissions Test (LSAT), which is a prerequisite for legal education for all schools in Canada.
Undergraduate University Degree
In order to be considered for admission, prospective students must hold or be currently completing an undergraduate degree from an accredited university. Diploma or certificate programs are not eligible for consideration. Most applicants earn a Bachelor of Arts, but students from all backgrounds may be accepted. In the past, UBC has accepted students from a variety of undergraduate degree programs such as architecture, science, engineering and forestry. Students must have completed at least three years, a minimum of 90 credits, at the time of application. Applicants who are in the process of completing their third year and would like to apply may do so, but any offer of acceptance extended to them will be conditional on upholding the academic average achieved during the first two years of their studies. While it is possible to be admitted with a three-year undergraduate degree, the vast majority of successful applicants have completed a four-year degree. Finally, students should have a strong academic record. According to the university's website, in 2008, the academic average of accepted applicants was 82 percent or approximately 3.8 on a 4.3 scale.
Law School Admissions Test (LSAT)
As with all J.D. programs in Canada, applicants must successfully pass the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT). The LSAT is a standardized exam that evaluates reading comprehension skills and analytical and logical reasoning abilities. LSAT scores are weighed alongside a prospective student's GPA. This means that if an applicant's GPA is lower than average, they may rectify it by earning a higher-than-average LSAT score. Accordingly, an applicant's higher-than-average GPA may cancel out a lower-than-average LSAT score. According to the university's website, in 2008, the average LSAT score of successful applicants was 164.
Personal Statement
A personal statement of no more than 750 words is the final requirement for admission into UBC law school. Applicants should express their interest in studying law and provide reasons why they are a suitable candidate for admission by, for example, highlighting extracurricular activities or previous work experience. While academic record and LSAT scores are given greater importance in assessing an applicant, the personal statement may also be used to judge admissibility and to decide entrance scholarship offers.
Tags: undergraduate degree, Admissions Test, Admissions Test LSAT, LSAT score, School Admissions, School Admissions Test, Test LSAT
A car loan is a legally binding contract. In most states, it is not possible for a minor under 18 years of age to enter into a legal contract. As a result, it is necessary for someone over the age of 18 to cosign on the loan and on the car title, which is also a legal contract. If a parent cosigns, you should have no problem obtaining a car loan.
Legality
The first step to obtaining a car loan as a minor is to ensure the loan is legal. For this, in most states, you will need to have a person over 18 years of age cosign on the loan. Typically, this is a parent, but it may be any individual willing to cosign on your loan including an aunt, uncle, mentor or friend. This person is technically the individual with responsibility for the loan since he is the only one legally permitted to enter the contract at the time it is signed. If a lender offers to extend you a loan without a person over 18 present, you should be aware that this lender is not following the law.
Credibility
A second factor to consider is your status as a borrower, that is, your credit. If you are under 18, you are unlikely to have much credit history. Your credit score, even if you have never missed a payment on other debts you may have, will be low. If your age didn't legally necessitate a cosigner, your deficient credit history would be reason enough for a lender to require one on your auto loan.
Solution
Since both legally and financially you will need a cosigner, the best option is to approach a parent with the problem. Your parent can sign the loan with you, and you will still gain the benefit of owning the car and paying off the loan. If you default on the loan, however, your parent will be held responsible as well, and this can present a problem. Your parents will be wise to monitor your payments so their credit is not jeopardized.
Considerations
Once you turn 18, you can legally remove your cosigner from the loan. You will have to apply for modification, and the lender may change the terms of the loan without a cosigner present. This may make modification unattractive because it can become more expensive. But through such modification, you will benefit greatly from the improvement to your credit score that results from paying off the loan on your own.
Tags: cosign loan, credit history, credit score, legal contract, loan without, most states
Students wishing to pursue an MBA are usually required to take the GMAT.
Students wishing to pursue a Master of Business Administration degree are generally required to take the GMAT test. When graduate schools receive the GMAT scores, they use them to assess student readiness. GMAT scores are good for five years. If more than five years have elapsed, you will need to take the test again. GMAT scores from more than a decade ago are no longer available from the GMAT testing website. To obtain test scores from 1990, you will need to contact a graduate school that received them.
Instructions
1. Contact the graduate school or schools that initially received your GMAT scores in 1990. If you attended this school, the administration will be more likely to have your GMAT scores on file. If you did not, it is unlikely the school will still have your scores on file.
2. Contact the registrar's office. Ask if your GMAT scores would be listed on your transcript. Request a copy of your transcript and test scores from the school you attended. You may need to pay a small fee in order to receive a copy of your transcript.
3. Ask for assistance from a manager in the registrar's office if your transcript does not include your GMAT scores. The manager may be able to access additional information at the school.
Tags: GMAT scores, your GMAT, your GMAT scores, your transcript, copy your
Combining computer skills with writing skills helps students learn to create resumes.
Help your students break into the work world by introducing the structure and form of a resume. A resume works as an introduction to a hiring employer who seeks to identify a potential employee's skills and experience. Get students involved in a project to help them recognize the skills they possess and how each skill can increase their chances of landing an interview.
Brainstorm and Research
Conducting a brainstorming session with your students will help them come up with ideas of information to include on a resume. Bring in resume books that describe build a resume, and have example resume template designs. "The Resume Handbook" by Arthur Rosenburg can be used when brainstorming. Let students list ideas that they think should be included in the resume, and put the best ideas on a chalk or dry-erase board for the whole class to see.
Explore Formats
Depending on the type of job a student expects to have someday, the resume format or template varies, which affects the information the resume presents. Explain the four basic kinds of resumes: chronological, functional, combination and targeted, pointing out the differences in each kind.
A chronological resume lists job experience and the most recent employer first, followed by subsequent jobs. A functional resume hones in on skills and strengths rather than describing job experience. A combination resume lists job experience chronologically but highlights the skills and experiences for each job. A targeted resume focuses on only the skills a potential employer seeks. Print examples of each type of resume, and give a copy of each kind in a shuffled stack to each student. They should be able to label each one based on the descriptions of resume types. After reviewing the answers, help the students decide which format would work the best for the job they have in mind.
Work with a Computer
The students can learn create resume templates on a computer, too. Get the children comfortable with working with a word processing program on a computer. In the computer laboratory of your school, show them create and save a document and to add and edit text. After mastering the basics of creating a document, help them create a template with the tools they learned in the processing program. Then they can use one of the examples to create their own resume template over several days.
Fill in a Template
After the students create a resume template, let them fill it in with their experiences. Because students may have limited experience for the jobs they wish, instruct them to research the job industry they want to be in and learn how an individual progresses from an entry-level position to their desired job rank. Let them use mock job experience to help them learn what it takes to obtain their dream job. Pointing out a few companies that employ individuals with various skill sets will start students on the right path. Encourage students to detail all the experience they wish to have in their template.
Tags: help them, resume template, create resume, each kind, employer seeks, learn create
The word "sorority" conjures an image of elite organizations with strong academic and philanthropic arms. If you're looking for a practical reason to rush, consider the ways you can actually improve your grades by joining a sorority.
Instructions
1. Attend study hours in the house. Having a set quiet time to study each day will keep you and your grades on track.
2. Receive tutoring from sorority sisters who are in the same classes. Borrow lecture notes if you're absent from class, work on group projects together and hold review sessions before tests.
3. Get advice from sisters who are upperclassmen with the same major. They'll be able to advise you on necessary classes and projects and fill you in on the testing styles of specific instructors. Knowing if you should concentrate more on the lecture notes or text books, for example, can give you an advantage at test time.
4. Take advantage of resources you may have in the house, such as study files, computer and office equipment or study rooms.
5. Motivate one another with a pact to study a specific number of hours each day or make a friendly wager on who will have the highest grade point average at the end of each semester. Treat the "winners" to dinner, a new outfit or a day at the spa.
6. Avoid burnout by taking a break from the books from time to time. Participate in community activities, philanthropic projects or social activities organized by the Greek community.
From avoid the freshman 15 to finding the best parties on and around campus while keeping up your grades, a college survival guide covers all the questions high school seniors and undergraduates ponder. College isn't easy, but equipped with a guide filled with tips, tried and true ideas and advice even the most ill-prepared students can survive their college experiences. Creating a college survival guide isn't a simple task, in fact, it involves lots of research, including interviewing and surveying past and current students.
Instructions
1. Clearly define what college survival means. Make a list of your initial thoughts and then scour the Internet and library for articles and books written on the college experience. Jot important notes, ideas and findings in your notebook. Be sure to keep a list of all sources you use including the source title, author and date of publication.
2. Create an outline and list some major topics you discovered during your research. Some topics might include study skills, working in teams, staying safe at parties, making the transition from high school to college and creating a schedule. Once you have your list of major topics you'd like to include in the survival guide, jot some of the ideas you learned through your initial research. Then enlist three or four friends to help you gather information by doing interviews.
3. Select a couple of college campuses and high schools in your area to conduct interviews. You and your team should interview high school students (preferably seniors) and current college students. Ask high school students what questions they have about the college experience, which things they're most excited about and which aspects make them nervous. Ask current college students to tell you what their biggest struggles were when they came to college and how they learned to overcome them. Ask current college students if they have any friends who just graduated and ask them to pass you and your team's contact information along to them so they can contact you. You and your team should ask recent graduates to give you tips they'd pass along to incoming freshmen. Use your voice recorders and video recorders, if needed. Be sure to create a form that participants can sign saying they agreed to participate in your survey and that they are okay with being video recorded or voice recorded.
4. Sit down with your team and sort through your research. Go back to your initial outline and begin to fill in pertinent information you gathered. Use the information you gathered from books and on the Internet, in addition to the information you collected through your interviews. If you need additional information, you can also send participants surveys by e-mail. Create one using an online program, so that it automatically tabulates your results.
5. Use your notes and begin to write your college survival guide. Give it a creative title, create a table of contents and use images to enhance the content. Before you take your guide to your local print shop or upload it online, be sure to review it for errors.
6. Send your survey participants thank you notes along with a free copy of your college survival guide. You should also send a thank you note and copy of the book to your friends who helped you gather information. You should list them as contributors in the guide.
Tags: college survival, survival guide, college survival guide, high school, your team, college students
There is no set maximum income when applying for financial aid.
The federal government and colleges allocate financial aid based on the information reported on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). There is no hard maximum income for aid eligibility because the FAFSA takes many factors into account. You may qualify for several types of aid, some of which have no income requirement at all. You'll need to understand which factors impact your eligibility and which types of aid are available to best plan for financing your college education.
Income and Assets
Statistically, 95.4 percent of Pell Grant recipients for the 2007-08 school year had an adjusted gross income of less than $50,000, according to FastWeb. Assets, such as your savings, checking and investment accounts, in addition to your income, are considered when you apply for financial aid. Significant cash savings can detrimentally affect your eligibility. In contrast debts, such as your mortgage or credit cards, are not considered. It may be advantageous to pay off any credit card debt prior to filing for financial aid, as this will lower your reported savings in addition to saving you interest.
Students in College
The number of students attending college in your household is one of the largest factors in determining eligibility for aid. Your expected family contribution is divided across all students attending college. A parent may qualify as a student provided he is actively seeking a degree. If you have multiple people in your household considering attending college, synchronizing attendance greatly increases your chances of qualifying for aid.
Grants
Requirements for federal grants vary, and some grants have no need-based component. The Pell Grant can provide a student up to $5,500 a year and has a strict need-based requirement. In contrast, any student whose parent died as a result of military service in Iraq or Afghanistan is automatically eligible for the Iraq and Afghanistan Service grant. The TEACH grant is available to students at participating universities who agree to teach low-income students for four years after graduation and has no need-based requirement.
Loans and Work Study
The Federal Work Study program has a more lenient income requirement than the Pell Grants. Subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford Loans have no income requirement for eligibility. Undergraduates may take out up to $31,000 in these loans over the course of their education, with the amount allowed per year starting at $5,500 and increasing by $1,000 in the second and third years.
Tags: attending college, income requirement, have income, have income requirement, Iraq Afghanistan, maximum income, need-based requirement
Glendale is home to several colleges offering coursework in fashion.
Glendale, Arizona, is a suburb of the "Valley of the Sun" metropolitan area surrounding the city of Phoenix. Some of the other large suburbs are Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe and Peoria. While Glendale is not home to a Fashion Design college, there are several universities with coursework in textiles and clothing construction. These credits can be applied toward several degrees as electives. If one is willing to travel to a neighboring suburb, the options increase.
Glendale Community College
Glendale Community College is part of the Maricopa Community College network and has several campuses, the main campus in Glendale, North Campus in Phoenix and the "Communiversity" (a partnership with the Maricopa network) in Surprise, Arizona. The college does not offer a degree in fashion design, but offers several courses in fashion and sewing. Courses include basic sewing skills, introductory and advanced clothing construction and pattern alteration and fit. Under the supervision of an adviser, approved internships can include fashion design, fashion merchandising and alterations.
Glendale Community College
6000 West Olive Avenue
Glendale, Arizona 85302
623-845-3000
gc.maricopa.edu
Arizona State University
Arizona State University has several campuses. The West Campus is located in Glendale; however, design and art studies are located at the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts in Tempe, approximately 22 miles southeast on the other side of the city of Phoenix. ASU offers a bachelor of fine arts degree in art with a fibers concentration. Students in this program must enter as general art majors and build a portfolio during their foundation classes before applying to a specific concentration. ASU also offers a bachelor of arts degree in design studies. This program is similar to a liberal arts degree; students mix studio and non-studio courses specific to the path they want to follow.
Arizona State University at the West Campus
P.O. Box 37100
Phoenix, AZ 85069
602-543-5500
asu.edu
The Art Institute of Phoenix
A short drive from Glendale, in nearby Phoenix, the Art Institute offers a fashion design degree. It also offers an option to study fashion merchandising. The school offers regular open houses for potential students, as well as the option to chat live online on its website with an adviser to respond to questions.
Art Institute of Phoenix
2233 West Dunlap Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85021
602-331-7500
artinstitutes.edu/phoenix/
Tags: Community College, Arizona State, Arizona State University, arts degree, Glendale Arizona, Glendale Community