Prepare To Complete Graduate School Applications

Before you can even begin filling out your graduate school applications, you need to get organized and compile all the necessary documents. The following tips will help you to streamline this process and complete your applications more efficiently.

Instructions

1. Visit the admissions website of each school to which you plan to apply. Find out if the school has an online application or if you are supposed to download the application and mail in a hard copy. If the latter is true, go ahead and download the application so that you have it accessible.

2. Create electronic folders for each school if you are applying online (or at least creating all the application documents electronically). Save your downloaded applications and any other related documents into these folders.

3. Buy or locate a set of paper folders and similarly label these with each school's name. You will use these to store nonelectronic documents (such as transcripts, letters from admissions and so forth) related to your application. Keep them accessible.

4. Review the applications and note important elements such as the due date and what supplemental materials you will need (transcripts, letters of recommendation and such). Create a spreadsheet with these categories across the top so you can fill in and compare this information.

5. Order transcripts and ask for letters of recommendation. Transcripts often take much longer to process than you would expect, and many schools will not accept your application until you have them. If the people writing your recommendations are required to send their letters directly to the school, provide them with preaddressed and prestamped envelopes. Similarly, find out the procedure for submitting transcripts and make sure the registrar's office at your undergraduate university understands to where, by what method and in what format your transcripts should be sent.

6. Update your resume. Even if you are not required to submit it, your resume likely contains information that will be asked on the application, such as which leadership positions you have held and which awards you have received. If you don't have a resume, review the applications and make a list of relevant information that you will need to include.

7. Get on top of the financial element of the application. If you will be applying for financial aid, you probably need to submit the FAFSA, for which you need information generated on your taxes (and that of your parents, if you are applying as a dependent). Find out when the FAFSA is due for your schools and begin compiling the financial information it requires.

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What Does A Full Scholarship Mean

When you hear that someone got a "full scholarship," you are excited for the recipient, but then you may wonder what that term actually means. Generally, a full scholarship means that the student is only responsible for paying for personal expenses and certain expenses related to going to college not covered by the scholarship. It is important to read through the scholarship details of each college, however, to understand its specific full-scholarship package. As a testament to this, some athletes are finding that their "full" scholarships do not completely cover what they have to pay to attend college.

Different for Each College

Colleges' full-scholarship amounts may vary, depending on the cost of attendance at the college and funding the college has for full scholarships in any given school year. Each college may cover only certain expenses as well, meaning that some full scholarships may be more generous in what they cover than others.

Tuition and Fees

Getting a full scholarship means that the cost of tuition and fees are completely covered for the student. Full scholarships are often renewed for the full four years it takes to complete an undergraduate education. At the graduate level, the tuition and fees may be covered for two years for a master's program or more at the doctorate level.

Room and Board

A student's room and board is also often covered in a full scholarship. This means that the costs of housing and eating on campus are covered in most cases.

Extras

Some full scholarships provide funding for extra costs of college above and beyond tuition and fees and room and board. These might include the costs of books, travel expenses, health insurance (which is required on many college campuses), and supplies (computer, notebooks, pens, for example). Some full scholarships also include a work/study program for the student to earn extra cash for personal expenses. This may also take the form of a summer job to cover personal expenses.

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Black Minority Scholarships

Black college students have a number of scholarship options when seeking higher education.

The first college degree granted to a black student occurred almost 190 years ago. After that initial degree was awarded, a number of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) were created in order to perpetuate higher education among blacks and promote its affordability. Today, black students, may explore a number of scholarship opportunities established to enhance their success when attending their college of choice.

Luard Scholarships

Study abroad is a popular option for thousands of students worldwide, and for African-American students wishing to study in the United Kingdom, the Luard Scholarships provide assistance to that end. The award enables students to study abroad for their entire junior year. Eligibility is based on school attendance, as students considered are those attending United Negro College Fund member institutions, plus Howard and Hampton universities.

The Luard Scholarships cover the students' travel expenses, tuition, room and board and offers a book stipend. In addition to the UNCF requirement, students must show themselves to be responsible enough for self-sufficiency abroad. Applicants also must have a 3.0 grade point average and apply during their sophomore year.

The English-Speaking Union of the United States

National Headquarters

144 East 39th Street

New York, NY 10016

Attn: International Programs

esuus.org/

Fund for Theological Education Fellowships

Doctoral candidates wishing to pursue theological or religious studies may apply to the Fund for Theological Education's doctoral fellowships. The objective of the fund is to promote diversity within the field of theology and to ensure the inclusion of African-American professors at theological institutions. The Fund offers two types of fellowships, dissertation and doctoral. The dissertation fellowship is awarded to students nearing dissertation completion. Students awarded this fellowship also attend the organization's annual conference, and are given a spending allowance to attend meetings of the American Academy of Religion and Society of Biblical Literature. The doctoral fellowship offers assistance during the initial year of Ph.D. study, and if the student to whom it is awarded advances satisfactorily, the award may recur. Both awards have a cap of $18,000 each.

The Fund for Theological Education

825 Houston Mill Road, Suite 100

Atlanta, GA. 30329

404-727-1450

thefund.org

Ron Brown Scholar Program

African-American high school students seeking scholarship monies for college can apply for the Ron Brown Scholar program. The program stipulates that students must attend American, four-year institutions. The scholarship offer totals $40,000, which is to be used over a four-year period. There is no mandatory school or subject requirement, but financial need is a consideration. Applicants are expected to not only be exceptional students, but they also must also exhibit community involvement. In addition to transcripts, students interested in applying must also present two references and essays.

Ron Brown Scholar Program

1160 Pepsi Place Suite 206

Charlottesville, VA 22901

434-964-1588

ronbrown.org

Tags: Brown Scholar, Fund Theological, Fund Theological Education, Luard Scholarships, Theological Education

Free Paralegal Distance Learning Programs

A paralegal distance learning program trains students perform legal research.

A number of different colleges and trade schools offer paralegal programs that prepare students to assist lawyers and attorneys in managing legal cases. While some of these are held in a traditional classroom format, others are offered through distance learning methods online or through video teleconferencing. Of course the cost of attending these programs can be high, which is why many students want to know about free paralegal distance learning programs.

Free Programs

Colleges and universities don't offer free paralegal distance education programs, since they must recover their expenses in offering the class. Some private businesses offer free classes and programs, but these are often one-time classes that simply provide training in a specific area related to the paralegal position. For example, LexisNexis offers a free class for paralegals, but it simply teaches them better use the LexisNexis software to perform legal research. Instead of seeking out a program that is automatically free, students often have more success finding ways to make a fee-based distance education paralegal program free.

Distance Learning Programs

The American Bar Association maintains a listing of paralegal programs in the U.S. on its website. Students can determine what programs offer distance learning education through the brief summaries listed under each program. Once a student has found a paralegal distance learning program that works for his schedule and needs, he can begin concentrating on make it free.

Financial Aid

Scholarships and grants are two types of financial aid that can cover the cost of a paralegal distance education program. A number of national and local foundations and nonprofit organizations provide scholarships specifically for paralegals. Examples include the National Federation of Paralegal Associations, the Dallas Area Paralegal Association, the North Carolina Bar Association and the Paralegal Division of the State Bar of New Mexico.

In addition, federal and state governments provide grants to students which don't have to be repaid. These grants can be given for academic performance, financial needs or academic major. Students can check with the financial aid office at their school to determine if they qualify for any grants that could make their paralegal program free.

Job Training

Funds for education and training in a new career are available in states through the Workforce Investment Act (WIA). The funding is granted to individuals who enroll in a short-term training program that prepares them to enter the workforce. With most paralegal programs lasting two years or less, they qualify for WIA funding.

Visitors to the website of the Georgia Department of Labor can see an example of paralegal programs approved for training, including one that offers the program via distance learning. To find out whether their state has funding for paralegal programs, students can contact their local workforce authority or their state's department of labor or commerce.

Employer Funding

A paralegal distance education program can be free for students who are sponsored by a law firm or legal department within an organization. Some students acquire funding for paralegal studies after serving as a receptionist or intern for the law firm, while others have an association or affiliation with the organization that helps them secure the funding.

Tags: paralegal programs, distance education, distance learning, paralegal distance, paralegal distance, paralegal distance education

Get Accepted Into A Good College

Go about the admissions process correctly, and get that large acceptance packet in the mail!

If you want to get accepted to a good college, kudos for doing some research. The fact that you care enough to put out effort to try to get into a good college is a positive sign. The definition of a good college might vary depending on whether you have hopes of attending an ivy league college or a highly rated private college. Tailor this advice to your circumstances so you can increase your chances of getting into the school you rated number one.

Instructions

1. Keep you Grade Point Average (GPA) at least above a 3.0 and ideally above a 3.5. Your GPA is calculated by the grades you receive in high school. If your GPA is above a 3.0, that means that you are an A student. Being an A student shows admissions counselors that you have a driven personality and want to succeed academically. They will also take into account what percentile in your class you are. Being in the top 30th - 15th percentile of your class is ideal. You can be in the top percentile of your class if you are competitive with the grades you receive. Avoid taking simple classes to get your GPA to be higher. They notice whether you take Advanced Placement classes, and they want to see that you are stretching yourself intellectually.

2. Set a goal to get an ACT score above 30 and an SAT score above 1200. Those scores meet the average requirements for the majority of good colleges. According to a collegeplanningsimplified.com article called "Tips on Getting into a Highly Selective College," you should try to get a 700 or 800 on each part of the SAT to get into a highly selective school. If you do not meet your goal scores, do not panic. ACT and SAT scores are only part of the admissions process. Buying an ACT/SAT preparation book helps many students know what the tests cover. You can also take a course on taking the ACT and SAT to help you practice. Plenty of practice tests starting your freshmen year of high school might get you to go above your goal score.

3. Make your participation in extracurricular activities count. Joining several different types of clubs shows admissions counselors that you have varied interests. For instance, consider joining a language club, student government, and a sport. Having academic, political and athletic goals is a strong sign to admissions counselors. Since you want your participation to be worth speaking about in college interviews, you might not want to join too many clubs. Avoiding overexerting yourself gives you time to focus on grades too.

Tags: admissions counselors, good college, percentile your, percentile your class, your class, admissions counselors that

Malaysian Government Scholarships

With a number of scholarships offered by the Malaysian government in order to support bright students, pursuing your higher education can be much easier

Attaining your tertiary education in Malaysia, whether it be an Undergraduate or Graduate degree, can be difficult with the steadily rising cost of tuition at the nation's best universities. With added expenses such as application fees, textbooks and living expenses, an education can seem almost impossible to fund for the average student. However, with a number of scholarships offered by the Malaysian government in order to support bright students, pursuing your higher education can be much easier. So whether you want to participate in a cultural exchange or simply expand your knowledge, there is a scholarship available out there for you.

Malaysia International Scholarships (MIS)

To be eligible for the scholarships, applicants must have completed their secondary education

You don't have to be Malaysian to benefit from The Malaysian Government's generous scholarships. The Ministry of Higher Education offers the Malaysia International Scholarships, competitive scholarships for international students with excellent academic records. The undergraduate studies and postgraduate scholarships were established to encourage foreign students to pursue their higher education at Malaysia's top educational institutions and to strengthen bilateral relations between Malaysia and participating countries.

Each scholarship consists of full tuition fees for a course of the student's choice at the educational institution of the student's choice, return air tickets from recipient's capital city to Malaysia, a monthly maintenance allowance and a yearly grant for books and internal travel.

To be eligible for the scholarships, applicants must have completed their secondary education, have an excellent record of leadership in extracurricular or social activities and must have two recent academic or personal references.

Finalists are examined by a panel established by the Ministry of Higher Education.

Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia

Scholarship Division

Level 4, Block 1, PjH Tower

Precint 2

Federal Goverment Administration Centre

Putrajaya, Malaysia 62100

www.mohe.gov.my

Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) Scholarship Programs

The MARA Scholarships provide full financial support to students wanting to pursue undergraduate degrees and postgraduate degrees

The Malaysian Government's Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) Scholarship Scheme, established in 1966, offers full-tuition scholarships for exceptional Malaysian students. The MARA scholarships provide full financial support to students wanting to pursue undergraduate degrees and postgraduate degrees in the fields of science, technology, accountancy, communications, law and business administration among others.

To be eligible for the scholarship, the prospective student must be a Malaysian citizen and bumiputera (i.e. one one of the parents is a Malay and practicing Islam), must fit under a certain socioeconomic status (annual taxable joint income of parents must not exceed RM80,000) and must currently be studying courses that are of great importance to MARA.

Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia

Scholarship Division

Level 4, Block 1, PjH Tower

Precint 2

Federal Goverment Administration Centre

Putrajaya, Malaysia 62100

www.mohe.gov.my

www.mara.gov.my

The Malaysian Government Commonwealth Scholarships

The Scholarships consist of full tuition fees at an approved Malaysian university

The Malaysian Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowships are awarded by the Malaysian Government to nominated students from Commonwealth countries such as Australia and Canada to study at a Malaysian educational institution at the post-graduate level. The Scholarships consist of full tuition fees at an approved Malaysian university, return air tickets from recipient's capital city to Malaysia, a monthly maintenance allowance and a yearly grant for books and internal travel.

To be eligible for the scholarships, the applicant must be a Commonwealth citizen, must have a minimum standard of upper second class honors or CGPA of 3.5/4.0 at bachelor's degree level.

Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia

Scholarship Division

Level 4, Block 1, PjH Tower

Precint 2

Federal Goverment Administration Centre

Putrajaya, Malaysia 62100

www.mohe.gov.my

Tags: Ministry Higher, Ministry Higher Education, must have, 62100 mohe, Administration Centre, Administration Centre Putrajaya

Properties Of Titanium Braces

Information on titanium braces

Titanium braces are made of titanium, as opposed to stainless steel. These braces are traditionally fitted on individuals allergic to other metals, such as stainless steel. Titanium braces allow for more accurate finishing and reduced repositioning during treatment. They offer an increased affinity for adhesives. Braces made of titanium also offer increased shock absorbency and bond retention, as compared with braces made of other types of metals. However, titanium braces are not without drawbacks--they are considerably more expensive than other types of braces.

Properties

Titanium is a light, white transition that is the ninth most prevalent element found in the Earth's crust. It is naturally resistant to corrosion. This metal has a high melting point at around 1,700 degrees Celsius; one of the highest melting points of any known metal. Titanium boils at temperatures exceeding 3,287 degrees Celsius, according to Los Alamos National Labs.

Strength

Titanium braces are the strongest on the market. According to Los Alamos National Labs, titanium is around 60 percent heavier than aluminum, yet it is twice as strong. Titanium, while around 45 percent lighter than stainless steel, is just as strong, according to Lenntech.

Tensile Strength

Titanium is ductile, meaning that it will bend under pressure. However, titanium has a relatively high tensile strength; it takes quite a bit of pressure to pull titanium apart. According to Key to Metals, titanium has a tensile strength of between 30,000 and 200,000 lbs. per square inch.

Health Effects

Perhaps the biggest reason that consumers choose to be fitted with titanium braces, as opposed to traditional stainless-steel braces, is that their body has allergic reactions to most metals. Consumers should not have an allergic reaction to titanium braces. Adverse reactions to titanium only occur with exposure to titanium powder. Inhaling titanium dust can result in pain and tightness in the chest. Irritation may occur when titanium powder comes in contact with the skin.

Coefficient of Expansion

Titanium has a very low linear coefficient of expansion, as compared with other metals such as stainless steel and copper. Linear coefficient of expansion refers to the length a metal expands as it is heated to near its melting point. According to Key to Metals, as it heats, titanium expands at a rate of 5.0 X 10^-6 of an inch per degree Fahrenheit. Stainless steel expands at a rate of 7.8 X 10^-6 of an inch per degree Fahrenheit.

Tags: stainless steel, Titanium braces, 10^-6 inch, 10^-6 inch degree, According Metals

Fund A Law Degree

Funding your law degree sets you on the path to becoming a lawyer.

Being accepted to law school is a happy milestone, but finding the funds to pay for it can be overwhelming. To get a handle on pay for legal education, a prospective law student should construct a workable budget, control living expenses and look for financial assistance with tuition costs.

Instructions

1. Research the cost of law schools. Examine tuition and book costs. Look at alternative schools; if you find one with lower tuition, make sure it is approved by the American Bar Association. Contact the law school for a book list. Ask if books can be brought online to save money. Ask senior law students if they have books you can buy at a discount.

2. Check the cost of living in the law school area. Look for suitable accommodations that are affordable and close to the school. Consider rooming with fellow law students. Check the student association for listings of apartments, condos and houses. Ask relatives or friends to rent you a room in their house.

3. Create a monthly budget. Identify your major expenses and keep them low. For example, determine your monthly costs for tuition, housing, food and miscellaneous expenses. Commit to finding ways to save money: Eat at home, subscribe to an online movie site, carpool or walk to school. Save money to build an emergency fund.

4. Apply for grants, scholarships, fellowships and work-study grants. Some states offer need-based grants to graduate students. Check with your school's financial aid office to find scholarship and fellowship programs. Work-study programs allow students to work part time while seeking their degree.

5. Find a flexible part-time job, such as law clerk, paralegal or customer service representative. Try to find a job that is related to the legal profession. Finding a part-time job will enable you to build your savings, pay tuition costs and build an emergency fund.

Tags: build emergency, build emergency fund, emergency fund, save money, students Check, tuition costs

How A Match Works

Matches' signature red tops are coated in phosphorous, which helps make matches flammable.

Matches have been used since the early 1800s, since the discovery that small controlled fires could be created via friction and chemical reaction. In 1855, Carl Lundstrom of Sweden, utilizing safer chemicals, developed safety matches, which can only be ignited by striking the designated surface on the match box, as opposed to a "strike anywhere" match.

Exothermic Reaction

When a match is struck, a chemical reaction takes place with a resulting change in energy. When a match head strikes a surface lined with a reactive chemical, sand, or another substance, heat is released with the flame, which is an exothermic reaction.

Chemical Change

Match heads are typically covered with red phosphorous. When a match is struck, friction causes the red phosphorous to chemically change into white phosphorous, which becomes flammable with surrounding oxygen.

Friction and Oxygen

Friction and oxygen are two major ingredients to get a match to light. Friction on the match coupled with oxygen as fuel creates a match flame.

Tags: When match, chemical reaction, match struck, phosphorous which, When match struck

California State Law Schools

California boasts some of the best law schools in the country.

When choosing a law school to attend, make sure it approved by the American Bar Association. There are many excellent law schools in the United States, and California has some of the nation's top programs. As of 2011, California has 20 law schools approved by the American Bar Association.

Stanford Law School

Located in Northern California, Stanford is consistently ranked among the top law schools in California and the country. The program provides a background in legal theory and offers students the opportunity to choose a specialized area of law. The first year of school focuses on institutions of law, legal reasoning and the analysis of judicial decisions. During the second and third years, students choose an academic curriculum based on their interests, such as business and commercial law, litigation or criminal law.

Thomas Jefferson School of Law

Thomas Jefferson School of Law is located in San Diego. It offers a comprehensive curriculum to prepare students for any specialized area of law. The school has more than 155 courses with a strong focus on intellectual property law, entertainment law, international law and legal writing. Some of the required courses include civil procedure, criminal law, constitutional law and property law. The school offers a limited number of scholarships and financial aid is available.

University of California, Los Angeles

UCLA is ranked among the top schools in the country, including its law school. The law school offers more than 200 courses. Some included in the first year curriculum are civil procedure, constitutional law, contracts, property law and criminal law. In the advanced curriculum, students choose courses within specialized areas, for example, First Amendment law, which is a specialized area of constitutional law. Financial aid is available.

Pepperdine University

Overlooking the beach in Malibu is Pepperdine University School of Law. The school prepares and teaches students the necessary skills to have careers as lawyers, advocate, judges, business people and philosophers of law. Pepperdine offers a global program where students can study American Law while living in countries such as England, Germany and Denmark. Financial aid is available and students are encouraged to apply for the Faculty Scholars Award. This award is granted to those who demonstrate academic excellence.

Tags: specialized area, American Association, among schools, approved American, approved American Association, civil procedure, first year

College & University Courses In Community Organizing

Place-based communities remain the main way people connect to information and each other.

Community organizers play a vital role in civic problem-solving and social activism. They help communities to change the balance of power and achieve their goals through leadership development and relationship building. University and college courses in Community Organization are available throughout the U.S., whether as part of a two-year program, a four-year major or at post-graduate level. Students may choose concentrations related to the career they wish to follow.

Community Organization Certificate Program

Certificates can be additions to related major subjects like social sciences, politics and social justice, giving students the specialty of Community Organizing. Alternatively, employers may accept this qualification from an experienced worker who has returned to education to further her career but without earning a degree. The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee School of Education offers a certificate program focusing on urban areas and some non-degree students may be eligible depending on their professional credentials.

Associate Degrees

These are ideal for adult learners returning to education after working for some time in a related field. Associate degrees can be taken either on campus or on line to fit in with adult students' schedules. Lasting two years, they can either be used as career enhancements or as a step to a four-year bachelor's degree in community organizing. Comprehensive lists of relevant courses are available through the Education Portal, Online Education and Degree Directory sites. The two-year on-campus course in Community Organization and Advocacy at Bay de Noc Community College in Michigan is a good and representative example of what is available. It offers learning in theories, practical experience and the principles of giving services to communities. It can lead to jobs working in all aspects of community organization.

Bachelor's Degree

Major options generally include Community Organization and Advocacy, Community and Justice Studies and Community Studies. Each one is designed to prepare students for careers as community organizers but it's wise to research specific career requirements and find a school that suits your situation before finally choosing any courses. South Carolina's Allen University has courses aimed specifically at people over 24 years old in their School for Professional Adults. This school wants to attract people with some university credits plus significant professional experience in a related field. Alternatively, Community Studies at California's Humphreys College is a sociology program with an emphasis on community and its role in modern American society. Humphreys encourages students to take courses that directly relate to the careers they're pursuing.

Graduate Degrees

Graduate studies in community organization are ideal for those seeking careers in law, government work or urban communities and environments. The Degree Directory states that students can complete a dual-degree program to become a community organization attorney. That means earning a Juris Doctor and a community organization master's degree. Areas of study include community media relations, social justice, debating policy issues, minority communities and race relations. A master's enables students to specialize even further in their particular area of interest, fine-tuning their career goals as they work closely with professors and carry out intensive research in their chosen community.

Tags: community organization, Advocacy Community, Community Organization, Community Organization Advocacy, Community Organizing, Community Studies

Find Money For College

Student loans help pay for college, but can take years to pay back.

While post-secondary education opens up many doors when it comes to career choices, it is more expensive than ever. According to Forbes Magazine, the cost of college has been rising by 7 percent annually for decades, much higher than the rate of inflation. As a result, many young people find themselves caught in the trap of needing money to get the credentials to make money. Fortunately, there are still some reliable resources for students looking to finance their education.

Government Grants

The government makes some resources available for students in financial need to attend college. Look into Federal Pell Grants and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants. Pell Grants can be worth as much as $4,000 per year and do not have to be repaid. You can apply online. If you are a Pell recipient and maintain a GPA of 3.0, you could be eligible for an additional $1,300 through the Academic Competitiveness Grant. Individual states sometimes also have grants available that you should look into.

Institutional Scholarships

Most post-secondary institutions have money available for students based on achievement. Finding out about them can be difficult, but it's always worth it to apply. Deadlines can vary and are usually strict, so it's best to start looking in the fall semester. Start by doing an Internet search for internal college scholarships. If you know what college you will be attending, spend a few minutes getting to know its website. Look under menus such as "Prospective Students" or "Financial Aid" for information. If you can't find scholarship information, look for the registrar's phone number on the site and call for more information.

Work

With tuition being as expensive as it is, there is always the old-fashioned route to making money: employment. Some students take a year off after high school to work full-time to pay for college. If you have a lucrative opportunity or a job you enjoy, consider working for a year to raise enough money. Other students look for on-campus work to pay for college. Visit the college cafeteria or bookstore and ask if they are hiring. Find out if your college has an employment center and visit it for more information.

Loans

If you have no means of securing a scholarship or a bursary, student loans, which must be repaid, are an option. Federal student loans come in various types. The most common are Stafford loans, which allow you to borrow a maximum of $23,000. Apply by visiting StaffordLoan.com. Repayment usually starts six months after you graduate. Many banks also have student loans available. Citizens Bank, for example, has a TruFit Student Loan, which can be repaid on a 5, 10 or 15 year term. To take the first step, visit your financial institution and speak with a representative.

Tags: also have, available students, loans which, more information, Pell Grants, student loans

Graduate Scholarships For African Students

African students have a number of scholarship opportunities to choose from when pursuing higher education.

According to the New York City-based Africa-America Institute, a nonprofit think tank dedicated to promoting education and training programs for Africans, enrollment in higher education institutions in Africa is growing at a faster clip than anywhere else in the world. Despite these promising statistics, a college degree remains an elusive goal for many Africans, particularly for those wanting to study abroad. As institutions and governments recognize the need to nurture the intellectual capital of the continent, however, they are developing more scholarship opportunities to enable African students to attend and complete university and, in many cases, graduate school as well.

Namibian Government Scholarship and Training Program

Administered by the Africa-America Institute, the Namibian Government Scholarship and Training Program offers scholarships to promising students from that country to study in the United States, Europe and South Africa. The scholarship committee has identified critical fields of study that Namibia needs in order to pursue development, including engineering, tourism, financial services, agriculture, mining, and others.

Ford Foundation International Fellowships Program

Intended for exceptional post-baccalaureate students from designated countries around the world who demonstrate strong potential for leadership and a commitment to social issues, the Ford Foundation International Fellowships Program offers funding to pursue graduate studies in any field of study, so long as it is related to one of the Foundation's three grant-making areas: asset building and community development; knowledge, creativity and freedom; and peace and social justice. Fellows receive not only funding to cover their expenses, they also comprehensive training and mentoring throughout their education in order to acclimate successfully into their host country's culture. In addition, recipients are given considerable support following the end of their fellowship, when they return to their respective countries.

Fulbright Foreign Student Program

Administered by the Institute of International Education and sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, the prestigious Fulbright Foreign Student Program provides scholarships and fellowships for non-U.S. nationals to study in the United States each year. More than 1,800 new recipients enroll in U.S. universities each year from nearly every region of the world, including Africa.

The Leakey Foundation Franklin Mosher Baldwin Memorial Fellowship

The U.S.-based Leakey Foundation offers the Franklin Mosher Baldwin Fellowship to citizens of developing countries with a demonstrated interest and intention to pursue advanced research and/or specialized training in any field of study related to human origins research. This may include primate behavior, genetics, paleoanthropology, and others. The fellowship provides support for no more than two years of study/research.

AAUW International Fellowships

The AAUW (formerly the American Association of University Women) offers International Fellowships to women from outside of the United States who would like to pursue full-time graduate or postgraduate study at U.S. academic institutions. A few fellowships are also offered for study at non-U.S. universities.

Tags: International Fellowships, United States, Africa-America Institute, African students, each year, Fellowships Program

Write A Personal Medical Statement

A strong personal statement will showcase your abilites as a doctor.

Completing the necessary coursework to even qualify for an acceptance to a medical school is a challenge in and of itself. Once you are ready to seek acceptance, though, to set yourself apart from the other applicants you will need a strong, well-written personal medical statement that details why you are dedicated to the field. A personal medical statement could also be useful if you are already an established doctor and would like to share with patients why you are especially qualified to provide their care.

Instructions

1. Pull in the reader with an attention-grabbing introduction. You do not need to start off with clich d jokes or statistics. Say something from the heart that will draw the reader in. Do not simply state your name or where you're from. Instead, perhaps offer an anecdote that gives the reader a sense of who you are.

2. Detail what being a doctor means to you. This detail will not only demonstrate your understanding of the profession,but it will also give the reader a sense of what you have to offer the community. Do not simply define "doctor," brainstorm some qualities you feel are essential to being a doctor and the role doctors play in their community. For example, if you prize bravery and assertiveness, explain why in the document.

3. Explain to the reader what makes you especially dedicated to the position. Do not rely on general statements; provide evidence that supports your claim. For example, don't say something like "I have cared about helping others since I was a child." Instead, provide an example of when in your past you helped someone in need and how that made you feel.

4. Put resume information, test scores and course work in context. Your supporting application documents will give the reader the hard numbers, but your personal statement is your chance to make that information shine. Do not simply restate the information. For example, instead of saying "I completed a microbiology degree" say something more to the effect of "While completing my degree in microbiology, I was afforded the opportunity to work hands-on in hospital and laboratory settings."

5. Omit any irrelevant biographical information. You want everything about your document to shout "qualified medical professional." While it's great that you might have experience outside of the field, only showcase this information if you can tie it back to why the experience would benefit you in the medical profession.

6. Edit and revise as needed. Never send a first draft out without careful review, possibly by multiple reviewers. Colleagues, professors and friends can provide a useful perspective on your statement, even though it pertains only to you. After all, while it is about you, the end readers will be from the outside and will review you based on their own viewpoints. Carefully remove any redundancies, grammatical errors or cluttered language that diminishes from your piece.

Tags: being doctor, give reader, medical statement, personal medical, personal medical statement, personal statement, reader sense

What Are The Best Georgia Cosmetology Programs

Georgia has more than 8,000 businesses classified as beauty salons that perform hair, nail and skin treatments, according to the University of Georgia Small Business Development Centers. To meet the needs of businesses, Georgia cosmetology programs provide training necessary to gain employment at beauty establishments. These colleges are nationally accredited and prepare students for licensing exams given by the Georgia Board of Cosmetology.

Arnold Padrick's University of Cosmetology

Arnold Padrick's University of Cosmetology in Forest Park, Georgia, is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences. Its 1,500-hour cosmetology program prepares students to pass the Georgia State Board examination as well as teaches them work on various hair textures, color, cut, braid and weave. Eligible applicants must have high school diplomas and in person interviews. To apply for the cosmetology instructor program, applicants need valid Georgia Master Cosmetology licenses. Upon completion of this program, students can get their Georgia State Cosmetology Instructor licenses.

Arnold Padrick's University of Cosmetology

4971 Courtney Dr.

Forest Park, GA 30297

404-361-5641

arnoldpadricks.com

The Process Institute of Cosmetology

The Process Institute of Cosmetology is located in Lawrenceville, Georgia, and accredited by the NACCAS. Programs focus on hair design and instructor training. Its 1,325-hour hair design program not only teaches student create different hair styles; this course provides instruction that helps student become successful business people. Applicants must be 17 years of age or older and have a high school diploma or GED. To earn diplomas, graduated must pass the school's final exam with a score 80 percent or higher. As a Pivot Point member, this school belongs to a network of salon professionals.

The Process Institute of Cosmetology

755 Lawrenceville Suwanee Rd., Bldg. 1300

Lawrenceville, GA 30043

678-990-0762

theprocessinstitute.com

The Esani Institute

The Esani Institute, A Paul Mitchell Partner School in Alpharetta, offers cosmetology programs in hair and skin care. Its cosmetology hair program teaches students help clients find appropriate hairstyles based on bone structure and facial shape. The Skin Academy program is the result of collaboration with the International Dermal Institute. Students learn about various skin treatments, analyze skin and create customized plans, makeup techniques and speed waxing. To enroll, applicants must be 17 or older, have a high school diploma or GED, and schedule tours with the admissions team.

The Esani Institute: A Paul Mitchell Partner School

1003 Mansell Rd.

Alpharetta, GA 30076

678-795-0999

esani.com

Aveda Institutes and Beauty Basics

Aveda Institutes and Beauty Basics of Atlanta is a NACCAS-accredited cosmetology program and a Beacon Award Winner for 2007, 2008 and 2009. Aveda offers programs in cosmetology, esthiology, manicuring and education. Courses include the use of plants for therapeutic purposes, infection control, sanitation, skin and hair care, manicure and pedicure, and makeup application. The application process includes taking a tour with admissions, completing an online application form and submitting a high school diploma or GED in person. Upon acceptance, students schedule appointments with the financial aid department and sign an enrollment agreement.

Aveda Institutes and Beauty Basics

3402 Piedmont Rd.

Atlanta, GA 30305

404-649-7119

avedainstitutesbb.com

Tags: high school, Arnold Padrick, Arnold Padrick University, Aveda Institutes, Aveda Institutes Beauty, Beauty Basics, Esani Institute

Use Symbolism In Fiction

Symbolism is important in fiction. It takes your story beyond simple plot or character development and creates depth and meaning. A good writer will use symbols that enhance the story's theme or pulls together all the fictional elements. But finding the right symbols for your story can be difficult if you don't know how. Before writing, determine what the story is about, then decide the type of symbols that will work best for it.

Instructions

1. Determine the purpose of the symbol. If you're writing a story about a death, for instance, choose symbols that will best represent the ideas of death and dying.

2. Set up the relationship between the symbol and the character and/or plot of your story. Introduce the symbol in such a way that subtly underscores the story's emotional core. For instance, the budding of a tree might symbolize a character's maturation from childhood to adulthood. Both can be introduced in such a way that their maturation parallels throughout the time frame of the story.

3. Use them sparingly. Symbols are effective only when necessary. You don't have to remind your readers in every paragraph of its symbolic value. A good key to know when to introduce and re-introduce a symbol is whether it effects the plot of your story or when it triggers an important aspect of your character's emotional or psychic development. For instance, the budding tree symbol can be introduced whenever there is a shift in time: "That spring, it was underneath the full bloom of the plum tree in her father's yard, that Beverly began flirting with the Clancy boy."

4. Introduce or reintroduce a powerful symbol during the climax or epiphany of your story.This is where the elements of your fiction come together. For instance, the tree in the yard might symbolize a marriage. A couple fears their marriage is falling apart. At the end of the story, a terrible storm blows through and the couple fears the tree might topple and crash into their home. But the tree survives stronger than ever. The tree's survival thus becomes symbolic of the survival of the couple's marriage.

5. Avoid cliches. If the symbol is too obvious, your reader will be distracted and become disengaged. For instance, the colors white and black symbolizing good and evil are obvious and overly familiar. Choose symbols that are new and inventive. Or go against the grain of your readers' expectations. Perhaps you can associate the color black with a character who turns out to be heroic.

Tags: your story, symbols that, budding tree, couple fears, instance budding

Know What'S Required Before Taking A Hspt

Your child is required to take a High School Placement Test, or HSPT, and you have no experience with the exam. You and your child are anxious about what's on the test and how well he or she will do on it. Here are a few steps you and your child can take to find out what knowledge and skills are required for the HSPT.

Instructions

1. Contact the school. If your child is taking the HSPT to get into a certain private high school or to assess placement in high school classes, talk to a school official to see what minimum test scores are needed in each area of testing for acceptance into the school. If your child is taking the HSPT as a graduation requirement, find out what scores are considered passing.

2. Look at sample tests. Many schools will let you view a sample test before the date of your child's HSPT exam. However, you may only be able to view them in the school office. There are also multiple sample questions included with HSPT study guides.

3. Consider an HSPT-prep course. If your child is extremely nervous about the HSPT, or you really want them to do well on the test, an HSPT-prep course may be worth looking into. There are a variety of prep courses out there including in-class seminars, private tutors and online courses or through purchased books and computer software programs. You and your child should talk about what would be best for them and what will fit your budget.

4. Talk to those with experience. If you know others who are familiar with this test, both parents and students alike, talk to them about their experiences. You will probably find that they have great information about what's on the test, and be able to give helpful hints for studying and taking the test as well as advice for overcoming anxieties before and during the test.

Tags: your child, about what, your child taking, about what test, child taking

Find Your Voting Precinct In Oklahoma

Finding voting information in Oklahoma only takes a few minutes.

If you want to vote in Oklahoma, you may need to locate your voting precinct and closest poll location. You can locate both your voting precinct and nearest voting booth by using the Internet or calling local city buildings near you. If you have a voter's card, your precinct number will also be printed on it. Locating your voting precinct requires no technical skill and can be done within just a few minutes by just about anyone.

Instructions

1. Open your Internet browser and visit a credible Oklahoma voting poll locating website. You can use these websites to locate specific areas in which you are eligible to vote based on your current location.

2. Search for your polling location by entering your current address and ZIP code. This will search Oklahoma state to find and locate poll locations nearest you. You can view the results after the search is complete to compare the distance and locations of the voting booths and polling stations.

3. Call the Oklahoma State Election board if you cannot locate your polling booth on the Internet or you find no results with your search. You can reach the State Election board by calling 1-405-521-2391. You can also e-mail them for more information. Alternatively, you can look at your current voter's card and find the precinct number, which informs you of your voting location.

Tags: your voting precinct, voting precinct, your current, your voting, Election board, locate your, precinct number

Find Grants In Communications

Grants can be used for just about any type of research project. However, if you are trying to find funding for a communications research project then you will need to make sure you target companies, government agencies and non-profit organizations that are either rooted in the field of communications or that have some other association or use for communications.

Instructions

Find Grants in Communication

1. Search the Federal database for grants in communication. This database is found online and is free to use. All you have to do is enter keywords related to your project or funding needs and the search engine will produce a list of related grants. Next, read through the list to find an open grant program that you qualify for. Keep in mind some grants are designed only for organizations, some are designed only for individuals and others are open to both groups.

2. Contact organizations that are either in the communications industry or that are interested in funding communications projects. University communication departments and libraries are both good sources of grants for communications projects. For example, the Michigan State University Libraries offer several grant programs for students, professionals and academics interested in public communication projects. The best place to find grant opportunities offered by universities is their research department. Keep in mind that fellowship grants tend to give a high priority to school alumni, but research grants are competitive and open to all researchers whose projects meet the guidelines of the grant.

3. Write to private organizations and ask if they are interested in providing you with a grant for your communications project. If you take this route then you will need to have a grant proposal already drafted and you will also need to provide the company with a reason why investing in your project will be beneficial to them. For example, your project may be developing communication technology that would reduce the company's internal or external communications costs. Good companies to target are companies that are in the communications industry like AT&T, Verizon and Direct TV.

4. Know what to do if your grant application is rejected. If your grant application is rejected for a competitive grant program then you will not have the opportunity to revise it and resubmit for the original grant period. However, you do have the option of resubmitting your application for the next funding period. On the other hand, if you are applying for a need-based grant or a private grant, then the organization may allow you to revise and resubmit your application for immediate consideration for funding. You will need to talk with the grant administrator to determine what your options are after your grant application has been rejected.

Tags: grant application, then will, will need, your grant, your grant application

Good Objectives To Put Into A Resume

The effective resume will lead to a phone call.

If you are currently on the job hunt, you'll need to create the best resume possible to attract the attention of employers and place your resume above the others in the pile. Your resume should consist of two parts: the cover letter and the resume. Hard-hitting objectives can be included in both parts of your resume but are only necessary in the cover letter. Ultimately, your goal is to write a clear, intelligent and compelling resume that includes enough powerful objectives to receive that phone call to schedule a face-to-face interview.

What is an Objective?

A resume objective is a short but highly powerful statement that gives the prospective employer a vision of how you will benefit the company. The objective statements must have what it takes to command the attention of the reader and is your one second in the spotlight. Your objectives assure the employer that you not only fit the advertised role but the mission of the company as well.

Where to Place Your Objectives

In the cover letter, an objective is generally placed in the second paragraph after a brief summary of your career highlights. In the resume, if included, the objective is a short statement at the beginning of the resume that tells the employer what you are looking for out of the position.

Examples of a Good Objective

When creating the cover letter, an objective statement can look something like this:

"I would like to present my superior communication skills, prior achievements, and proactive approach that cut to the core of any problem and quickly find the solution."

For the resume, the objective may look something like this:

"Seeking a position as a dedicated member of your sales team where I can utilize my interpersonal and closing skills to meet and exceed monthly goals."

Good objectives highlight your shining qualities. One way to come up with good objectives is to determine if you have excellent organization skills, are a strong leader and received rewards for your skills.

Tags: cover letter, cover letter objective, letter objective, like this, look something

The Average Work Hours For A Physician

Physicians often work long and irregular hours.

Physicians are medical professionals with over eight years of undergraduate and medical education. The job of a physician can be very stressful and demanding, and many physicians can agree that the hours are often unrelenting. The average work week of a physician depends on several factors.

Features

Although the career field of medicine is rewarding in more ways than one, physicians certainly work hard for their income. Long hours means good pay, but it also means less time for relaxing or social activities. Since hospitals are open 24/7, some doctors are required to be on call or work tiresome hours to fulfill their obligation of patient care.

Types

Average physician work hours vary by specialty. For example, dermatologists averaged a 45.5-hour work week, while pediatricians pulled in an average of 54.0 hours each week, according to a study conducted by the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2003. Anesthesiologists and gynecologists tied for the longest average work week at 61.0 hours.

Considerations

Not all physicians work the same schedule. Some physicians many only work part-time on weekends, while others may work full-time, on-call or per diem. Some physicians even have varied schedules. For example, they make work two weeks on and two weeks off, or work in a hospital on weekends and in their own practice during the week. Physicians that own their own practice can set their own hours.

Geography

Where a doctor lives may also affect their hours. For example, if a doctor lives in Manhattan, New York, he may be subject to on-call hours and overnight hours, as the city is busy and the hospital may cater to hundreds, or possibly thousands, of people each day. A physician that lives in a small, rural town in Montana may only have to work set weekday hours at a private clinic or small hospital.

Warning

Fortunately, for medical interns or residents, a law that was recently passed requires that residents not be allowed to work more than 80 hours in a week, according to the American College of Osteopathic Internists' website. Interns are also not allowed to work for more than 24 hours straight without having a break. Failure to follow this law may get the hospital in trouble and cause the intern to become sleep deprived, which can lead to poor care of patients and oneself.

Tags: work week, allowed work, allowed work more, average work, average work week, doctor lives

Find The Area Of A Trapezoid (Using The Formula!)

Solve the area of a trapezoid using a standard formula.

Find the area of a trapezoid using a couple of methods. If you know the base lengths and the height of the trapezoid, use the standard formula to solve your problem correctly. It helps to draw the trapezoid with the information provided in the problem if you haven't a picture of the trapezoid in front of you. This visual provides a logic check to make sure you've computed the area correctly and the answer makes sense.

Instructions

1. Use the standard formula. The formula to find the area of a trapezoid is A=(1/2)h(a+b). A stands for area, h stands for height, and a and b stand for the lengths of the two bases.

2. Plug in the information provided in the problem. For example, the height of the trapezoid is 22, one base (label it a) is 11 and the other base (label it b) is 19.

3. Plug everything into the formula: A=(1/2)22(11+19). Work inside the parenthesis first; A=(1/2)22(30). Multiply 30 and 22; A=(1/2)660. One half of 660 is 330. The area for this trapezoid is 330. Add units of measure, as appropriate, either inches or feet, and remember to square them. The trapezoid in the example is 330 sq. ft. in area.

Tags: standard formula, area trapezoid, base label, height trapezoid, information provided, information provided problem

Lpn Accredited Online Schools

Many different online schools offer LPN preparation programs, great for busy, working adults who want to further their careers without giving up their full-time jobs. LPN programs -- which focus more on technical skills as opposed to theory and organization -- can be easily accomplished using the online learning platform. Completing this type of program gives students the training they need to take the National Council Licensure Examination -- Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN), which you must pass to become an LPN.

University of Phoenix

Established in 1976, University of Phoenix offers a variety of associate's, bachelor's, master's and doctorate degrees in nursing. There are also certificate programs geared towards training students for the active role of Licensed Practicing Nurse (LPN), as well as preparing for the national licensing exam. The school's nursing programs are accredited by the Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education.

University of Phoenix

3157 East Elwood St.

Phoenix, AZ 85034

866-766-0766

phoenix.edu

Indiana State University

Indiana State University is renowned for its nursing program. Its two main nursing programs are the LPN to BN program, and the RN to BN program, both rounding out the base of acquired real-world skills with theory, organization and more clinical training. A nursing education certificate is also available, and the LPN programs are designed to be completed quickly, with a combination of online learning and in-person training at local facilities and institutions.

Indiana State University - Office of Distance Support Services

Erickson Hall, room 122

Terre Haute, IN 47809

888-237-8080

indstate.edu

Kaplan University

Kaplan offers over 20 nursing programs. LPN training programs are available, offering completion times of just nine to 12 months; those courses prepare students to take the national LPN exam. Online classes -- which are mixed with partnerships at local campuses and facilities -- complete the curriculum. The RN to BSN program is one of the most popular, but all of the programs are fully accredited and offer a specific approach to fit with your existing certification, knowledge and future goals.

Kaplan University

1801 East Kimberly Rd.

Davenport, IA 52807

866-527-5268

kaplanuniversity.edu

Tags: Indiana State, Indiana State University, nursing programs, State University, University Phoenix, Kaplan University, online learning

Write A High School Recommendation Letter

Meeting with the student can help you prepare to write the letter.

High school teachers and administrators are frequently called upon to write letters of recommendation for their students. They may be required for students applying for competitive academic summer programs or internships and are often required for college admissions. Writing a compelling, accurate recommendation letter helps the admission committee get to know the student better and learn how the student is perceived by his instructors and school counselors. Composing a high school recommendation letter is fairly straightforward.

Instructions

1. Begin the letter by addressing it to the correct recipient. A letter addressed "Dear State University Admissions Committee" shows that you took more care with the letter than if you just write "To Whom It May Concern."

2. Provide background information about yourself. You may want to mention how long you have been teaching or working in high school administration and what subjects you teach. Your level of experience may sometimes add more weight to your letter.

3. State how long, and in what capacity, you have known the student. Include what courses of yours the student took and whether you know him in an extracurricular capacity, such as coaching him on a sports team or advising him in a school club or organization.

4. Describe the student's academic performance. Mention how the student matches up against her peers and how well prepared and capable you think the student will be for the camp, internship or college to which she is applying. Provide specific examples of papers or research the student has done.

5. Add extra information about the student. If the student particularly stood out either in class or in the student body, mention how and why. The more specific examples you give the better.

6. Print the letter on your school or departmental letterhead. Sign and mail the letter to the appropriate address.

Tags: information about, recommendation letter, specific examples

Dd Form 626 Instructions

Military vehicles transporting hazardous materials must have a DD form 626 inspection.

The Department of Defense requires military vehicles to undergo inspection for the transportation of hazardous material along public roadways. Such material includes poisonous gases, poisonous materials and radioactive materials. Inspection form DD 626 must be completed for every vehicle that leaves or arrives at military facilities. The inspection consists of the mechanical aspects of the motor vehicle and all cargo spaces where the hazardous material will be stored for transport. The ordnance officer or other designated official has military authorization to complete the inspection.

Instructions

1. Write in the bill of lading and transportation control number on form DD 626. Fill in section one to record the inspection documentation. Include the origin and destination requirements concerning the carrier or government organization doing the hazardous materials transportation, the inspection's date and time, location, the motor vehicle operator's name, the operator's license number and a medical examiner's certificate.

2. Verify the operator has the appropriate paperwork, such as a valid lease, route plan, driver's vehicle inspection report, military hazmat endorsement and other specified information. Document whether the vehicle is displaying the CVSA decal as commercial equipment used for transport.

3. Write in the necessary information in section two for the physical mechanical inspection. Record the type of vehicle and the vehicle's number. Start your inspection of all parts listed, marking down whether the equipment is satisfactory or not. Leave any additional comments.

4. Complete the second section by indicating whether you accept or reject the vehicle as appropriate for hazardous materials transport. Indicate whether the satellite surveillance system is in acceptable condition. Write in any additional remarks and sign the document section as either the inspector at the facility where the hazardous material is shipped from or the inspector at the receiving facility.

5. Finish the inspection by completing section three for the post loading of the hazardous equipment. Place a check mark in the satisfactory or unsatisfactory category concerning the loaded containers; for example, are they secured without moving and does the shipment include proper government shipping papers? Sign the line along section three as either the inspector at the destination facility or at the origin destination. Have the driver sign on the appropriate line.

Tags: hazardous material, hazardous materials, either inspector, motor vehicle, origin destination

Craft Activity For The Paul & Silas Bible Story

Children and adults alike sometimes struggle with seeing God in the midst of difficult and trying situations. Paul and Silas' praise in the midst of persecution provides a good example of how you can stand strong in your faith even when everything seems to be going wrong. You can use a craft activity for the Paul and Silas Bible story to illustrate for children that faith "under fire" witnesses to others of God's sufficiency in the most adverse situations. The opportunity to bring others into a saving relationship with him made suffering worthwhile for Paul and Silas.

Edible Jail Cells

Give each child a frosted cupcake, strips of fruit leather and two gummy bears or animal crackers to represent Paul and Silas. Tell the children to press Paul and Silas into the frosting and use the fruit leather to create prison bars over them. Read or tell the Bible story. When the earthquake comes and the prison breaks open, let them crack open their edible jails and break off the prison bars. When the story is over, gobble up the tasty treats.

Prison Diorama

Create a prison scene in a shoebox, including small paper or toy figures of Paul, Silas and the other prisoners. Cut the lid to resemble prison bars and put hinges on the lower edge of the box so that it will open and close. Let the children retell the story using the diorama. When the prison breaks open, the front wall of the model should fall open, too.

Puppets

Make paper stick puppets of Paul, Silas, the jailer and his family. Draw faces on the craft stick with markers and glue on yarn for hair. Alternately, color printable Bible figures such as those found at the Charity Association Emmanuel website (emmanuel.org.ua) and tape a craft stick to the back. Use the puppets with berry basket jail cells to re-enact the story .

Homemade Percussion

Paul and Silas faced their trials with praise in their hearts. God gave them an unexpected victory and the chance to accomplish something greater for the good of his kingdom by witnessing to the jailer and his family. Children can make their own homemade percussion instruments to accompany their praise. Place a handful of dry beans in a small box, cardboard tube or small, plastic margarine container and seal the opening. Ask children to name difficult situations in their own lives, saying, "Thank you Jesus for helping me when _____." Have the class sing along with praise songs, shaking the rattles to the beat to demonstrate their faith. Remind the children that praying and singing praise to God can help them persevere through life's difficult situations, with or without the instrumental accompaniment.

Tags: Paul Silas, prison bars, Bible story, breaks open, children that

Sodium Bicarbonate For Metabolic Acidosis

Sodium bicarbonate can reverse the effects of metabolic acidosis.

Baking soda, scientifically called sodium bicarbonate, is much more than just an ingredient for baking. In cases of severe metabolic acidosis, it can also be a life-saving medication. As an injectable solution, sodium bicarbonate quickly acts to lower the body's pH and reverse the damaging effects of acidosis.

Metabolic Acidosis

Metabolic acidosis occurs when the body is too acidic as a result of either the body producing too much acid, the kidneys removing too little acid or the loss of bicarbonate ions from the blood. Metabolic acidosis can result from a number of underlying conditions including diabetes, kidney disease, severe dehydration or diarrhea, aspirin poisoning and lactic acid buildup. In severe cases, metabolic acidosis can lead to shock or even death.

Sodium Bicarbonate

In the blood, the bicarbonate ion (HCO3) is a critical component for the acid-base buffering system in the body. It helps to maintain the body's pH at a level of 7.4. When administered in the blood, sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) reacts with excess hydrogen ions to form water and carbon dioxide. Sodium bicarbonate is administered intravenously to treat for metabolic acidosis. The solution of sodium bicarbonate and water has a pH range from 7.5 to 8.

Indications

When metabolic acidosis is the result of bicarbonate loss or decreased kidney functioning, sodium bicarbonate is an appropriate treatment. In other cases of metabolic acidosis, the underlying cause should be treated as opposed to the symptom of acidosis. If the body's pH reaches levels below 7, intravenous sodium bicarbonate treatment is recommended regardless of the cause. This treatment is solely to minimize the negative effects of acidosis on the body.

Considerations

The target pH during treatment of metabolic acidosis is 7.2. During administration, serum pH and bicarbonate levels must be checked regularly and adequate ventilation should be ensured for the removal of excess carbon dioxide.

Risks

Treating with sodium bicarbonate can lead to several very serious vascular conditions such as increased sodium levels, lowered potassium levels and excess carbon dioxide. Additionally, if the dosage of sodium bicarbonate is too high, the body's pH can elevate, resulting in metabolic alkalosis.

Tags: sodium bicarbonate, carbon dioxide, metabolic acidosis, sodium bicarbonate, acidosis body, acidosis result, cases metabolic

Degrees Required For A Criminal Lawyer

Degrees required to be a criminal lawyer differ from other law degrees.

U.S. qualified criminal lawyers represent clients accused of crime or criminal misconduct in court processes. They negotiate punishments to ensure clients receive justice. The road to practicing as a criminal lawyer in the U.S. is a long and rigorous one. The American Bar Association is the U.S. legal profession's national representative.

Undergraduate Degree for Aspiring Criminal Lawyers

Aspiring criminal lawyers may complete a four-year undergraduate program in any major. However, opting for law-related classes in government, economics, history, sociology and public speaking is preferable. A pre-law curriculum includes a Bachelor of Science with a history or political science major with pre-law emphasis. For example, the University of Maryland's College of Behavioral Sciences offers an undergraduate program with a criminology and criminal justice major and internship participation.

Professional Law Degree

Passing the Law School Admission Test, or LSAT, grants enrollment in a three-year juris doctorate program in an ABA-accredited law school. Only ABA-accredited law school graduates can take bar exams in U.S. jurisdictions. No 100-percent distance education law degree program holds an ABA approval currently; hence, such education will restrict the student's future prospects.

A full-time law school courseload covers all aspects of legal studies. Specialization in criminal law is an option during the second half of the juris doctorate program. The program's lawyer practice skills course focuses on negotiating, mediating, client interviewing, counseling and court procedures. Elective courses, internships, legal clinics and moot court competitions develop students' skills at handling cases.

Bar Exams

Passing the state bar exam grants a person the license to state court practice. Developed by the National Council of Bar Examiners, bar exams are administered by the respective state board of bar examiners.

Bar exam modules include the six-hour Multistate Bar Examination (MBE), the three-hour Multistate Essay Examination (MEE) and the Multistate Performance Test (MPT). The Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE) is another bar exam conducted in most U.S. jurisdictions. The NCBE's Uniform Bar Exam (UBE) model -- wherein the MEE, MPT and MBE will be conducted over two days in February and July annually -- will be administered by Missouri and North Dakota jurisdictions beginning February 2011 and by Washington beginning July 2013.

Continuing Education

All practicing criminal lawyers must attend continuing education programs. These are held by the ABA online, can be found on law school campuses and are conducted by state bar associations.

Master of Laws

The Master of Laws (LL.M.) in prosecutorial science, a degree offered at Chapman Law School, is designed specifically for lawyers engaged in criminal prosecution for five or more years. The program deals with criminal law application in all states with state specific law electives. The Master of Laws in trial advocacy gives students -- criminal or civil lawyers -- hands-on trial coaching under leading judges and attorneys.

Doctor of Juridical Sciences

A criminal lawyer who has been a top LL.M. graduate can join the Doctor of Juridical Sciences (S.J.D.) degree program, which usually is completed in five years, under his chosen faculty overseer. This most advanced law degree permits him to become a legal academician and gain employment as faculty in top law schools. Candidates have to submit and successfully defend their doctoral dissertations orally at the end of the course.

Tags: criminal lawyers, Master Laws, ABA-accredited school, criminal lawyer, degree program, Doctor Juridical, Doctor Juridical Sciences

Reasons For Bankruptcy Letters

When you file for bankruptcy, the United States Bankruptcy Court generates several different types of letters. You may also need to draft some of your own letters once your bankruptcy case is finalized.

Initial Letter

The U.S. Bankruptcy Court will issue letters to all of your creditors ordering them to stop contacting you during the duration of the case.

341 Meeting

A 341 meeting of creditors is when any lender can potentially object to a bankruptcy case, usually if fraud is suspected. Both you and your creditors will receive letters regarding the date of this hearing.

Special Circumstances

If a creditor breaks federal law and contacts you during bankruptcy, you will need to send a letter advising the company or person of your bankruptcy case. If the collection action continues, advise the court so they can send a warning letter.

Discharge

When your case is approved by the court, you and your creditors will receive a discharge letter.

Credit Reporting Issues

Bankruptcy reports on your credit file for 10 years if you pursued Chapter 7, and seven years for Chapter 13. If a credit bureau reports your bankruptcy incorrectly or past the statute of limitations, you will need to write a dispute letter.

Tags: bankruptcy case, your bankruptcy, your creditors, Bankruptcy Court, creditors will, creditors will receive, reports your

Law Schools In Oklahoma

The state of Oklahoma is home to three law schools: Oklahoma City University School of Law, University of Oklahoma College of Law in Norman, and the University of Tulsa College of Law in Tulsa. All three programs have won accreditation from the American Bar Association.

Oklahoma City University

Oklahoma City University (OCU) is a private college affiliated with the United Methodist Church.The university was founded in 1904, the law school in 1907.

OCU Entering Class of 2009, Tuition and Fees

A total of 1,334 individuals applied for admission to the OCU law school for the fall 2009 semester, of which the university accepted 721; 225 enrolled. The entering class of 2009 was 37 percent female and 16 percent minority students. The faculty to student ratio was 1 to 15.3.

The tuition for the average full-time OCU law school student for the 2009-2010 academic year was $31,870; a part-time student's tuition amounted to $21,270. Loan fees totaled $410.

University of Oklahoma, Norman

One hundred years old in 2009, the law school at the University of Oklahoma (OU) is the only public law school in the state, as well as the largest. It presently has approximately 500 students enrolled in the full-time law program.

OU Entering Class of 2008, Tuition and Fees

Of 1,137 applicants for the fall of 2008, 178 enrolled. The entering class was 48 percent female and 23 percent minority students. The average age was 25. The faculty to student ratio at OU Law School is 1 to 14.

For the 2009/2010 school year, residents of the state of Oklahoma paid tuition and fees of $16,766 for 30 credit hours. Nonresidents paid $26,694.50 for the same number of hours.

University of Tulsa

The University of Tulsa (TU) is a private university in Tulsa. The student body of the law school numbers less than 500.

TU Entering Class of 2009, Tuition and Fees

The entering class of 2009 included 140 students from 22 states. Forty-five percent of the students were residents of Oklahoma, while the balance came from elsewhere. The average age of a new law school student was 25. The overall student body of the law school numbers 429 students, of whom 39 percent were female and 17 percent were minority students. The faculty to student ratio at the University of Tulsa College of Law is one professor to every 12 students.

Tuition for the 2009/2010 school year is $28,876; additional fees amount to $164. The estimated cost of books is $1,500 per year.

Tags: University Oklahoma, City University, faculty student, faculty student ratio, female percent