Make A Hospital Budget

Making a hospital budget is only second to medical delivery systems in for a hospital. In fact, if a budget is not properly written, the hospital may be unable to deliver medical services at all. So many expenses and sources of revenue must be taken into consideration, so the budget process takes an expert to get through it successfully. Let's find out start.

Instructions

1. Determine hospital revenue. Revenue can come from patient payments, tax dollars, donations, insurance credits. Be sure to deduct a percentage of the patient bills that will remain uncollected, the charity work expected by the hospital and the pro bono work it does.

2. Figure out expenses. Start with the physical facility. How much does it cost to keep up the building or buildings. What is the maintenance cost of each department, engineering, air-conditioning, heat, water, other utilities. Know what equipment costs, how much must be replaced per patient day, and if any can be recycled. Include the non-medical cost of each bed in the hospital. Include advertising.

3. Know the cost of personnel, all employees and ancillary staff, including consultants, outsourced contracts, perhaps laundry or nurse staffing services. For all employees of the hospital, from janitorial to hospitalists, figure the fringe benefits the hospital must pay for each.

4. Add all medical equipment costs, ongoing and expected expansion or replacement of new diagnostic equipment.

5. Know the medical costs of each bed. How many staff hours are spent on each bed, occupied or not. Use this figure as an average to get a cost per patient year. Add to that the non medical costs per bed. Include every possible cost that keeps that bed in the hospital. Don't forget replacement costs per annum for any and all patient needs.

6. What about expansion? Are you planning a new wing, or the renovation of an old one? Are you expanding into a new specialty that could bring in extra revenue? Estimate that revenue when planning your budget.

7. Don't forget parking garages, lots, landscaping, groundskeeping or window washing.

8. Include all insurance for the facility and personnel.

9. Write in an emergency expense fund. Disasters occur and the hospital must be prepared for them when they arrive.

10. To do the budget, use a spreadsheet. Enter all categories and the cost of each. Add all taxable items and the percentage of each. You probably get reduced rates on utilities, or least a break on the taxes on them. Enter all formulas for those. It is possible your state or your hospital system has one already available. If the spreadsheet exists, use it or modify it for your own needs. If it does not, make one, so making next year's budget is simply a matter of entering numbers and letting the computer do the work.

Tags: cost each, equipment costs, hospital must, medical costs

Three Phases Of Writing & The Communication Process

Notes can help you categorize your paper's contents more effectively.

Writing is not a one-off process: you cannot start writing straight away if you want to produce a good essay or letter. Instead, writing is a three-step process, involving pre-writing, the main writing stage and revising, according to Georgia Perimeter College. A reason to be extra careful is the fact that your written work constitutes your message, as a sender to the receiver, during the communication process.

Pre-Writing

During the initial stage, you must narrow down your topic and determine its boundaries, otherwise you can end up with an extremely large essay containing irrelevant information. Make an outline of the script to divide the paper into clear paragraphs, avoiding chaotic structures and unnecessary repetitions. With your audience in mind, determine the language you are going to use (formal, informal), as well as the purpose of your work (inform, prove your knowledge or ask for help, for instance).

Main Writing Stage

Compose your paper according to the outline and the style directions you decided during the pre-writing stage. The main issue to watch out for during this stage is to include all relevant information in the right paragraphs and ensure the wording is appropriate; not too formal for a friendly letter, not simplistic on a scientific essay. Correct spelling or structure mistakes on the spot when you identify them, to avoid the risk of ignoring them when revising.

Revising

The last stage before you can hand your essay or send the letter is the editing step. Go through your work once again to ensure you have no spelling or punctuation mistakes, unusual wording or significant deviations from your initial plan. Reading your work aloud slowly can help you identify problems with sentence structure. The key fact to worry about is your main idea and if you have managed to make it clear to the potential reader.

Writing in the Communication Process

According to the Center for Literacy Studies of the University of Tennessee, the communication process consists of a sender, the message and the receiver, who in turn can send feedback. Communication can be verbal, nonverbal (through gestures, body language) or written, where the text is the message. Therefore, the ability to effectively communicate your ideas, thoughts and feelings in written form is an essential part of the communication process and a key factor for a successful interaction with your reader.

Tags: your work, communication process, Communication Process, Writing Communication, Writing Communication Process, your paper

Medical Billing And Coding Schools

Many medical billing and coding educational programs are available.

The field of medical billing and coding is an ever-growing area of continuing education. Those in this profession enjoy careers alongside health care providers in various settings. Online programs are abundant for this field, but physical campuses offering diplomas and certificates in a traditional educational setting also thrive.

Kaplan University

Medical billing and coding certificates can be earned through Kaplan University's continuing education program. This online program is intended for those with a high school diploma or GED. Students entering this program must demonstrate basic computer skills with a challenge exam or proof of successfully completing a college-level computer course. An Introduction to Computer Skills course is available for those students entering the medical coding program who need computer training.

The coding and billing certificates are offered separately, requiring eight courses each. Each certificate can be earned in 12 months or less. Tuition costs for the coding and billing programs are $3,695 and $3,595, respectively.

Virginia College

With 14 campuses in seven southeastern states and a fully operational online option, Virginia College is a growing school offering certificates and diplomas in medical coding and billing. The college possesses personalized service, real-world experience, career placement assistance, financial aid, flexible class schedules and small class sizes. A high school diploma or GED is required for admission. The programs differ slightly by state and by level of completion (degree or certificate), but a minimum of 60 quarter-hour credits are required.

Everest College

Everest College has 100 campuses across the United States offering day, night, and weekend classes. It also has an online education program. The medical billing and coding program offers simulated practice of the manual and electronic preparation of insurance claims. You will also practice interviewing and documenting skills to obtain and record patient information and manage and complete claims. Everest College offers practical hands-on training, financial aid, job search help and a well-known reputation.

National American University

The health care coding diploma is available online and through 17 National American University locations. The program teaches students the necessary skills to compete in this in-demand health care field. The school is currently pursuing accreditation through the American Health Information Management Association to prepare program graduates for the certification examination required to become certified coding associates.

Tags: billing coding, coding billing, Everest College, health care, medical billing, American University

Employee Tuition Reimbursement & Taxes

A working student.

If you're lucky enough to have a job with an employer that is will to help you increase your education, it's well worth the time and effort to take advantage of the opportunity. There are still many employers in mid and large-size companies that will fully or partially reimburse your tuition costs if you get an additional certificate or degree while working. It's a win-win situation, but it does have tax ramifications you should be aware of.

What Tuition Reimbursement Is

According to Allbusiness.com, when an employer is willing to pay for part or all of your higher education tuition cost this is tuition reimbursement. Many working adults have gained additional skill-sets and opened their careers into new fields by taking advantage of tuition reimbursement programs with their employers.

Most of the time the employer expects the employee to pay the cost up front. The reimbursement is conditioned upon successfully completing the education program or a set of classes. This is proven by producing official school transcripts, or a copy of the program certificate or degree to the employer.

Tax Treatment

Because tuition reimbursement is paying you for a cost you incur for your employer, technically it is not considered a profit or income to you. As a result, the money you received from your employer to replace your funds for costs is not reportable to federal or state income tax authorities. That said, the entire payment needs to be a reimbursement only. Any amount that is paid as a bonus or above your original school costs would be income and then reportable on your income taxes.

Further, the amount of tuition reimbursement that is not taxable is capped. Congress limited the tuition reimbursement exclusion to no more than $5,250 annually per person which is specified in Section 127 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code.

Defending Your Costs

The best way, according to Nolo Press - a legal expert guide source - to prove your education expenses exist for tax purposes is to keep copies of all your school costs. You should get receipts for your tuition payments, book purchases, and any other fees for registration and class needs. All of these can be eligible for reimbursement, depending on how much cost your employer wants to cover. This also helps defend that your reimbursement is just that later on when you can show the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or state tax authority that the payment you received is equal to or less than your receipts in total for school. Finally, keep copies of all your payments and paperwork from your employer related to tuition reimbursement.

Limited to Higher Education

Most employer tuition reimbursement programs are limited to higher education college programs or skill-training secondary schools. Rarely do employers reimburse high school costs if at all. In addition, various employers may require additional criteria be met such as the school must be accredited or the program must be immediately beneficial to the company. An example of employer criteria can be see on the California Institute of Technology's website (http://hr.caltech.edu/policies/PM/PM15-15.htm). For example, many employers will support accounting programs, but few will have a need for veterinary training.

Responding to an Audit

If you are audited by the IRS or your state tax agency, you should respond as soon as is reasonably possible. Do not ignore the audit or try to avoid it. Delay can result in penalties or worse. Instead, make sure to bring a copy of your income tax filings for both federal and state taxes, and bring all your paperwork and receipts that you used to prepare them. Make sure to have a full copy of everything in a file at home so if you have to hand something over you always have a 2nd copy for your records.

Answer each question truthfully and show your proof of calculations with your receipts and worksheets. If you had someone prepare your taxes, make sure they come with you to the audit (that service is usually included in your tax preparation fee). Per Nolo Press, don't make the IRS guess; provide the answers for them.

A Tax Benefit for Employers

Employers get a tax impact from offering tuition reimbursement as well. Fortunately, the employer's tax impact is a positive one; employers can use the tuition reimbursement as a business expense and a deduction when calculating the business taxes owed. See the University of Texas CRS Report cited below for more details (Page: CRS-2).

Tags: tuition reimbursement, your employer, school costs, certificate degree, copies your, copy your

Scholarships For Enrolled College Students

One reason many students go to college is to increase their earning potential in the job market. However, The Boston Globe reports that college costs are higher than ever and are growing even faster than inflation. With prices climbing so quickly, it is getting more and more difficult to keep up. Finding and securing a scholarship may be a way for a college student to avoid debt so that once graduation rolls around, earning potential won't be wasted away on paying back thousands in loans.

Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship

The Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship awarded to undergraduate students who prove excellence in the study of science and mathematics. The foundation awards up to $7,500 annually to cover tuition, fees, room, board and other eligible costs.

319-341-2333

act.org/goldwater/index.html

Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to undergraduate students in order to fund study-abroad trips for those who may not be able to afford it otherwise. Pell grant-qualified undergraduate students attending accredited two- or four-year colleges are eligible to apply.

Institute of International Education

Gilman International Scholarship Program

1800 West Loop South, Suite 250

Houston, TX 77027

888-887-5939 ext. 25

iie.org/en/Programs/Gilman-Scholarship-Program

Department of Homeland Security Scholarship Program

College students with a 3.30 grade-point average or higher studying a homeland security related major qualify for the Department of Homeland Security scholarship. The scholarship recipient will participate in a 10-week research internship and a full-year homeland security field placement. Recipients have full tuition paid and receive a $1,000 stipend during the school year and $5,000 during the 10-week summer internship.

orau.gov/dhsed/2010pages/scholarship.html

The Elie Wiesel Prize in Ethics

The Prize in Ethics is an annual ethics essay contest. Full-time college juniors and seniors are eligible to apply, and they must be sponsored by a faculty member at their accredited university. Prize money ranges from $500 to $5,000.

The Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity

555 Madison Avenue

20th Floor

New York, NY 10022

eliewieselfoundation.org/prizeinethics.aspx

Harry S. Truman Scholarship

The Harry S. Truman Scholarship is available for college juniors planning to advance to public service graduate programs. A strong background in extra-curricular activities and community service is required. Truman Scholarship recipients are eligible to receive up to $30,000 toward their graduate education.

Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation

712 Jackson Place, NW

Washington, DC 20006

202-395-4831

truman.gov/for-candidates

Morris K. Udall Scholarship

College sophomores and juniors interested in environmental careers or Native American and Alaska Native students interested in tribal policy or Native health care may qualify for a Udall scholarship. The foundation awards 80 $5,000 scholarships and $350 honorable mentions annually.

Udall Foundation

130 South Scott Avenue

Tucson, AZ 85701

udall.gov/OurPrograms/MKUscholarship/MKUscholarship.aspx

Ronald Reagan College Leaders Scholarship

According to the scholarship's website, college sophomores who prove themselves committed to "freedom, American values and constitutional principles" are awarded merit-based scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $7,500 annually. Applicants must write an essay.

The Phillips Foundation

Attn.: Jeff Hollingsworth

1 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Suite 620

Washington, DC 20001

202-250-3887 ext. 628

thephillipsfoundation.org/index.php?q=node/3

Tags: Truman Scholarship, Harry Truman, Harry Truman Scholarship, undergraduate students, awarded undergraduate, awarded undergraduate students, Barry Goldwater

Remove A Cosigner From A Loan

When you need a loan before you have enough positive credit history to qualify, you can get someone to cosign with you. This person agrees to make payments on the loan if you fail to. The loan, along with all of the payment history, appears on both your credit report and the cosigner's credit report. This debt liability could affect the cosigner's ability to obtain credit on his own, so the cosigner might want to be released from the obligation. There are two major methods to remove a cosigner.

Instructions

Apply for Release

1. Make consistent on-time payments on your loan for at least one year. Some lenders want to see two or more consecutive years of on-time payments, but you can at least ask after one year.

2. Check your credit report and see if there are any errors on it. If there are, follow the instructions on the credit report to dispute them so they will not affect your credit score. The lender will check your credit to ensure that you are responsible enough to handle the loan on your own before releasing the cosigner.

3. Contact your lender and ask for an application for cosigner release. Not all lenders offer this, but if they do, it is the simplest way to remove the cosigner.

4. Fill out the application for cosigner release and mail it back to the lender. You should receive a decision shortly.

Refinance Loan

5. Follow the procedure above to attempt to get the cosigner released. If your lender does not offer cosigner release or if you do not qualify, your only option is to pay off the loan and get a new one on your own -- also known as refinancing.

6. Look at your most recent loan statement to find the outstanding balance. This is the amount you will need to refinance.

7. Call your current lender or another lender and ask about the procedure for applying to refinance your loan.

8. Fill out the required documents to apply for the refinance. If you get it, this will pay off the old loan and release the cosigner, leaving you with a new loan without the cosigner.

Tags: credit report, your credit, cosigner release, application cosigner, application cosigner release, loan your

Write Notecards For Term Papers

Organize your research with notecards.

Your term paper may feel like a gargantuan task. The actual writing aspect seems to be the very least of it, as you spend countless hours researching, taking notes and attempting to synthesize your findings into a coherent and logical final product. If you are feeling overwhelmed, try transferring your notes onto notecards. Creating notecards can assist you in both narrowing down your research and organizing your paper.

Instructions

1. Create a notecard for each reference. These will help you keep track of your references and write your bibliography. Include the author, title, city of publication, publisher and publishing date in the citation style your professor has instructed you to use.

2. Gather your notes. By now you should have formulated a thesis statement for your term paper. Go through your notes and select only those items that directly pertain to your thesis statement. These items can be events, facts, quotes or other relevant points.

3. Write an individual notecard for each item that you selected in Step 2. Summarize facts, events, points and concepts as briefly as possible. Write down quotes verbatim and enclose them in quotation marks.

4. Write down the author and page number(s) from which you obtained the item on the upper right-hand corner of your notecard.

Tags: your notes, notecard each, term paper, thesis statement, Write down

Ideas For A Master'S Thesis In Education

Ideas for a Master's Thesis in Education

Choosing an education master's thesis topic is no easy feat. By this point in your degree, you will have completed student teaching and have some experience in the classroom. Your thesis adviser will want to see you tackle a problem in education that pegs you as an analytical problem solver and an effective teacher. So think back on what you know about the problems facing education, and pick a topic that interests you. You'll research your topic and spend a lot of time writing, so enjoy the process!

Sample Topics

Many people choose a topic based on relevant issues in education today.

For instance, examine such topics as property taxes as a way to fund schools, racial and socioeconomic diversity in schools, the success and shortcomings of busing, the difference between magnet and mainstream curricula, the effects of parental involvement in education, gender expectations of students, or whatever else comes to mind from reading the education section of the newspaper or from your own time in the classroom.

Quantitative Components

For some theses, you could conduct your study through qualitative research for a case study. Most professors of education will tell you, however, that the most accurate studies do not spring from observation alone. Think about analyze data in your thesis, whether it be analyzing test scores or distributing a survey at a PTA meeting or amongst teachers. Perhaps the numbers you find will help confirm or challenge your original thesis and add validity to your study.

Library and Online Topic Research

Check your university library, where you might find sample theses that past education master's candidates have submitted. Read through other papers to get an idea of what you want to write about yourself, how you might improve upon the study and what you'd like to do the same or differently. Run the idea by your thesis adviser before initiating your paper.

Tags: education master, Ideas Master, Ideas Master Thesis, Master Thesis, Master Thesis Education, thesis adviser, Thesis Education

Problems Of Implementing A Social Studies Curriculum

Social Studies is different from a lot of other academic fields, for it is a cross between the extreme subjectivity of math and the the objectivity of English. Thus, for a Social Studies teacher, there are a lot of difficulties that can arise when trying to create a curriculum, including concerns about bias and properly assess students.

Bias

The biggest problem in implementing a Social Studies curriculum is dealing with bias. All human beings are prone to bias, be it latent or obvious. This is especially true when dealing with history, as there is so much that an individual must choose to forgo in order to present a lesson. One way to mitigate this in your classroom is to give students a lecture on bias before you start with any material. Make it clear that while bias can be overt (e.g., racism or sexism), it can also be subtle, and a good Social Studies student must account for all possible angles.

Different Voices

Similar to bias is the concern over different voices when examining primary documents (e.g., material that actually comes from the time being studied). For example, when studying the treatment of Native Americans by colonists in the United States, you may find a lot of primary documents from colonists, but significantly fewer from Native Americans. Be sure that students understand the importance of considering the other perspective; one way to do this is to have them write a creative piece that shows the point of view from a group that is under-represented in the historical documents.

What to Teach?

Determining what to teach in a Social Studies curriculum is one of the most difficult behind-the-scenes roles that the teacher has because history is so complex, but the realities of a school curriculum make it difficult to cover anything else besides the bare bones. For example, if you're planning a unit on the Civil War, but only have four weeks, how do you determine what to teach and what to cut? One way to show students the complexities of Social Studies is to give each of them an individual project on one minor aspect of the unit and have them teach the class for fifteen minutes on this "unimportant" aspect.

Assesments

Social Studies straddles the objective and subjective fields, and thus its assessments must reflect this. While its important that students understand the objective facts about history such as dates and names, its is equally important that they understand the subjective such as why something happened and what the results were. As an educator, you must determine what percentage of their tests will involve objective questions and what percentage will involve subjective analysis. One way to mitigate this is to have the test be entirely objective, with a take-home essay supplementing it.

Tags: Social Studies, dealing with, determine what, have them, important that, mitigate this, Native Americans

Consolidate Student Loans To Prevent Default

Consolidate Student Loans to Prevent Default

Consolidating your student loan to prevent default, would be the wisest thing you can think of. With the economic crisis money is not easy to come by. The last thing you want when you get out of school is to have a high student loan debt.

Instructions

1. First you have to know your options. How much research did you do before choosing your student loan provider? Was this student loan provider affected by the economic crisis? Did their company require a bail-out? Understanding your options is the first step to consolidating your loans.

2. After you have done your research on the company you have chosen. Check to see what their intrust rates are, and how customer friendly they may be. Get to know the the company. Remember customer service is key when it comes to consolidating your loans. You want to be able to tell the company exactly what you are able to pay and how it can be put toward your loan to prevent default.

3. Making payments on your student loan before graduation can give you a jump start on paying the loans off. This too will prevent default. Remember student loan defaults leave a blemish on your credit report that does not go away. If you see that your student loan amount are high, try to consolidate them before your borderline default. Set up a savings account that will be just for your repayment of your student loans. Keep in contact with the company to build a repore. Inform them of any medical, or family related issues that may delay payments. Loan companies are really willing to work with you, they want their money back.

Tags: student loan, your student, your student loan, Consolidate Student, Consolidate Student Loans, consolidating your loans, economic crisis

Get Financial Aid For Trade School

Funding the cost of a post-secondary education is often overwhelming. Many programs assist students in making their academic goals attainable. The government offers financial assistance to students based on their need. Many other private organizations and institutions offer scholarship opportunities to students based on academic merit. If trade school seems out of reach at first glance, explore your options. You may be surprised as to what financial assistance is available to you.

Instructions

1. Choose the trade school you want to attend. Get all pertinent information regarding the cost of attendance from their Financial Aid office. Many schools offer private scholarships based on a variety of factors such as need, scholastic merit and the program of study. Get information on all institution-based scholarships that apply to you.

2. Assess your personal resources. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs. If you are currently employed, see if this is an option available to you. If you were are, or were in the military you may qualify for the GI Bill or other educational financial assistance programs.

3. Inquire if the trade school you want to attend accepts federally funded financial aid. If they do, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid online. The FAFSA offers need-based financial assistance in the forms of both loans and grants.

4. Look for scholarships available outside the institution you want to attend. Many organizations offer scholarships to students who display financial need and who exhibit superior academic qualities. Some of these scholarships are based on past grades or test scores. Others are based on race, minority affiliation, gender, area of study, personal interests, career goals or any combination of these factors.

Tags: financial assistance, want attend, scholarships based, school want, school want attend, students based

Cheap Mba Degrees

You don't need to break the bank to get a decent MBA.

If you plan to go into business, cutting expenses should always be a priority. A good place to start is obtaining a cheap MBA. Bear in mind, however, "cheap" does not necessarily mean low-quality. Also, tuition is only one factor in finding the least expensive MBA. The objective should be to get the most bang for your buck through a combination of financial strategies.

MBA Cost Factors

Tuition is just one element in the cost of getting a degree. If you have a job, a full-time program will result in lost wages. In that case, a program with part-time study may be the answer. Further, MBA programs that require relocation will involve significant expenses besides tuition. For that reason, the cheapest MBA programs are usually online. Using instant messaging, podcasting, video lectures, videoconferencing and other technologies, you may complete the degree in the comfort of your home. Finally, make careful decisions about educational loans, as interest also will be a factor in the cost of your degree. Consult with a financial-aid advisor on your best options.

Residential vs. Non-Residential Students

MBA tuition often varies by whether the student resides in the same state as the university. For instance, an MBA at Florida Gulf Coast University costs only $16,428 for in-state students but a whopping $59,178 for everyone else. Whether or not you get the degree online is irrelevant. A student in Los Angeles who gets an online degree at a university in Los Angeles will stay pay less (in most cases) than a student in Las Vegas.

The Cheapest MBA

According to the website "Success Degrees," Chadron State College has an online MBA degree program with a total cost of just $7,560. Chadron is a small state school in Nebraska with about 3,000 students. Though the degree will not carry the same prestige as an Ivy League school, Chadron is an accredited institution and should be adequate for a mid-level manager who wants basic grounding in business management.

The Cheapest (And Best) MBA

Another website, "Get Educated," factors both quality and cost into its rankings. For its Fall 2009 list, Southeast Missouri State University was ranked number one with an "A" rating and a tuition of $8,234 for residents and $14,174 for others. The university is located in Cape Girardeau and offers nine concentrations: accounting; environmental management; financial management; general management; industrial management; international business; health administration; entrepreneurship and sport management. The degree can be obtained online.

Tags: online degree, program with

How Hard Is It To Become A Doctor

It takes years of advanced study to become a doctor.

The privilege of being called "Doctor" doesn't come easy. Doctors earn the title and more money because their education costs more and takes longer than most other professions.

Basic Requirements

Becoming a doctor -- whether a medical doctor (M.D.), Ph.D. (doctor of philosophy), Th.D. (doctor of theology) or J.D. (attorney) -- first requires an undergraduate degree, which typically takes three to four years to obtain. An entrance exam is required to be admitted to a graduate program. Finally, an exit exam or dissertation must be completed to prove you have the necessary skills and training to practice in your field.

Medical Education

To become an M.D. you must apply to medical school. If you beat the stiff competition for limited seats, based on your entrance exam, undergraduate performance and other factors, you will attend medical school for four years. Next, comes on-the-job training in a residency program for three to five years, depending on your field of practice. All physicians must then pass the U.S. Medical Licensing Exam to practice medicine in the U.S.

Cost

According to "U.S. News and World Report," the median in-state tuition for the 2009-10 school year at a public medical school was $22,800. Other doctorates, such as a Ph.D., pays one-fourth that amount. But, education is an investment in earning potential; typically the higher the cost in time and money, the greater and faster the payback in earnings.

Tags: medical school, entrance exam, four years, your field

Prepare For The Nursing School Entrance Exams

Prepare for the Nursing School Entrance Exams

Nursing school entrance exams are important to your nursing school application. Anxiety plagues many students before and during the test, and can be harmful to your score. Preparing for the entrance exam is important, and will also help relieve your anxiety. Follow these steps in order to prepare for your exam.

Instructions

1. Studying the recommended study guides is the most efficient way to prepare for the nursing school entrance exams. If you do not have a study guide, they are available to order online or through your school. If you can not afford a study guide, your local hospital may have one that they will allow you to check out. Also, depending on the specific test you are taking, the creators of the test might also provide online practice exams similar in format to the actual exam.

2. Practice for your nursing school entrance exam with a group of people who will also be taking the exam. This method of learning works well for many people. If you find yourself easily distracted in a group, continue the remainder of your studying alone.

3. Exercise every day until the day of the test, even if you are just walking your dog. Exercise relieves stress, and can help you deal with test anxiety. Eating balanced meals is also important. Your brain needs to be in good working order the day of the exam.

4. Studying all night long the night before the exam will not help you do well. Study in 20-minute increments during the day and evening, instead of mass studying at night. Allow your body to rest between study sessions.

5. Remain calm during the exam, and do not allow yourself to spend too much time on one question. If you are unsure, move on to the next question and come back to those questions when you are finished. If you run out of time on the exam, quickly guessing answers is better than not answering them at all.

Tags: entrance exam, entrance exams, nursing school, nursing school entrance, Prepare Nursing, Prepare Nursing School

Use A College Financial Aid Calculator

Determining how much money you need to afford college can be a difficult and stressful task due to the many different expenses you must consider. College financial aid calculators make the task more manageable by listing the various expenses a college student incurs as well as helping to calculate how much money might be available to assist the student in paying for their education. There are a number of websites that have them for you as long as you know use a college financial aid calculator.

Instructions

1. Find a website with a calculator for you to use. A number of different websites that provide information about college financial aid have calculators. Many college students use FinAid, which is a college website sponsored by the job board, Monster (see Resources).

2. Choose a short or long financial aid calculator. There are two different versions of calculators you can use to determine your expenses and the financial aid available to you. While both provide an estimate, the long calculator requires the input of more data, which in turn gives you a better estimate than the short one. However if you don't have much time and want to see a rough estimate, the short financial aid calculator is much easier, since it only asks a few questions.

3. Select either federal or institutional methodology. Which of these options you choose will depend upon where you are going to school. Public institutions generally use the federal methodology to determine what kind of aid you receive, thus you will want to select this when you use the college financial aid calculator if going to a public community college or state university. Those that attend a private college will want to use the institutional methodology since this is similar to how private schools award aid.

4. Mark whether you are a dependent or independent student. To be considered an independent student, there are certain qualifications you must meet, such as being married, having children or being over the age of 23. Having your own place and paying for school yourself does not instantly make you an independent student. You can determine which category you fall into by completing the dependency status worksheet on the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) website.

5. Select your enrollment status. Financial aid is awarded differently for students that go full-time versus part-time. Full-time is considered 12 hours or more, while part-time is anything from 6 to 11 hours. Taking less than 6 credit hours does not qualify you for financial aid, thus you may need to adjust your enrollment if you need financial aid to pay for any classes you take.

6. Input information about your household and family status. Being married, having children, or simply having other siblings in college at the same time you attend can all affect the amount of financial aid you receive. Generally students receive more money for school when they have others in their family in college at the same time or have people dependent upon them, such as in the case of having children.

7. Supply parent information if you are a dependent. When using the financial aid calculator to determine how much school will cost and what aid you can expect to receive, you will have to put your parents' tax and income information into the calculator to get a true estimate if you are a dependent. Eliminating this information on the calculator won't provide you with the right estimate. If you are classified as an independent student, you can skip this step.

8. Enter your tax information. Each student, regardless of independent or dependent, is required to enter his tax and income information into the calculator. If using the short version, you can simply estimate while you should take out the tax forms you filed if using the long financial aid calculator.

9. Estimate the costs associated with school. At the end of the financial aid calculator, you will have the opportunity to estimate how much it will cost for you to attend school. There are numerous categories of costs such as tuition, books, room and board, health insurance, transportation and even entertainment. You should enter information that is based on the school you are planning to attend.

10. Compute the information and get your results. After entering all the information, you can have the financial aid calculator analyze and assess it. Then it will provide you with the results of what you can expect college to cost as well as what approximate aid will be available to assist you.

Tags: financial calculator, independent student, college financial, having children, available assist

Piaa Softball Rules

PIAA Softball Rules

The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association rules follow the standard American Softball Association rulebook and are designed for the safety and enjoyment of all participants. As the sport continues to evolve, there is often a need to update the rules to correct any reoccurring problems or discrepancies. What follows is a summary of some of the rule changes that have occurred in the past year.

Substitution Rule

In situations where the Flex player bats for the Designated Player without first reporting to the umpire, the DP is removed from the game, but is allowed to reenter if she has substitution privileges remaining. The umpire will note the change on the lineup card, and will issue the team a warning. For a second substitution infraction, the unreported player as well as the team's coach will be restricted to the dugout.

Unauthorized Bats

If a team is found to be using bats that contain the 2000 or 2004 ASA certification mark, but do not appear on the non-approved bat list, they are permitted for use as long as each bat has at least the 2004 certification mark.

More Than Three Outs

If play continues after three outs are recorded in an inning due to umpire oversight, all activity that occurred after the third out is nullified, and in the next inning the batting order reverts back to the player who would have batted after the third out.

Eye Shields

Attaching an eye shield to a catcher's helmet is permitted as long as it is constructed of clear, non-tinted material that is molded to the helmet.

Delivering Pitches

The 20-second time frame for when a pitcher must deliver the next pitch begins as soon as the ball is received from the catcher, and the pitcher is required to deliver the pitch when the hands are brought together.

Undergarments

All undergarments such as T-shirts must be of a solid color. Stripes, logos or drawings are not permitted.

Umpires

For all games that are played within the boundaries of Pennsylvania, PIAA umpires must be used, whether an out-of-state team is involved or not. When a PIAA team travels out-of-state, the home state's rules and umpires will be used.

Tags: 2004 certification, 2004 certification mark, after third, certification mark, permitted long

Choose A Major For Medical School

Choose a Major for Medical School

It can be extremely difficult to be accepted into medical school, even for students with high GPAs. Choosing the right major as an undergraduate is important to ensure that you are as well prepared as possible for the medical school entrance exam. In addition, the difficulty level of different undergraduate programs of study will vary and may have an impact on your GPA, which will be closely reviewed by the acceptance board of any medical school you apply to. By choosing the right major now, you can increase your chances of being accepted into the medical school of your choice.

Instructions

1. Consider majors that will help you prepare for the medical college admission test, commonly called MCAT. The MCAT is required of all students hoping to gain acceptance into medical school. The MCAT contains sections on the physical sciences (general chemistry and physics), the biological sciences (biology and organic chemistry), verbal reasoning and writing. The better prepared you are for the MCAT, the higher you will score.

2. Study a subject you like and are good at. The more you like a subject, the more likely you are to excel at it. Maintaining a high GPA is crucial to getting accepted into medical school.

3. Look up the acceptance statistics for the medical school you are interested in applying to. The acceptance statistics list will tell you the percentages of each undergraduate major that are reflected in the school's current student body. This list will give you an idea of the undergraduate majors that the medical school acceptance board at your chosen school favors. Many medical schools post their acceptance statistics online.

4. Seek advice from professors you trust or even your family physician. They can inform you of what to expect and choose a major that will best prepare you for the medical school of your choice.

5. Consider taking a double major as an undergraduate. Not only will a double major be impressive to any medical school admissions board, but it can help you keep your GPA up if you are not as strong in the sciences as you are in other subjects. A double major also demonstrates that you are passionate about multiple subjects.

Tags: medical school, into medical, into medical school, acceptance statistics, accepted into, accepted into medical, double major

Tuition Reimbursement Schools

Prepare a list of tuition reimbursement schools in your state along with their eligibility criteria.

Educational institutions across the world have introduced pedagogical services in lieu of payments made by students in all stages of studies. While meritorious students receive scholarships, research grants and awards, low-income students can apply for financial aid in terms of tuition waivers and bursaries. However, certain schools have started introducing new schemes under which meritorious and needy students can avail various forms of reimbursement programs for studying at particular institutions if they are eligible. These reimbursement programs may be in the form of free classes, reimbursed meals or healthcare, as the case may be, in respective institutions.

Tuition Reimbursement

As an attempt to promote professional development, Duke University has introduced the scheme of tuition reimbursements for its employees. The potential candidate must, however, fulfill certain criteria in order to be eligible for the tuition reimbursement program. One of the basic criteria is that the candidate must be working full time at the university for a minimum period of two years. Another important criterion is that the course that the individual wants to pursue must contribute positively to the career growth of the individual. The short-listed candidate would be reimbursed for a maximum of nine classes per year (i.e., maximum three classes per semester). In monetary terms, the maximum tuition reimbursement per year would be $5,250.

Military School Reimbursement

According to an amendment to the existing Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) Active Duty Education Program, the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs can pay a top up fee to active duty participants, who wish to pursue higher education, to help them pay their tuition fee. In order to be eligible for this program, the applicant must have served the U.S. Military Department as an active duty veteran for a minimum period of two years. The applicant must also obtain prior approval for federal tuition assistance from the U.S. Military Department to be eligible for this program.

Special Education Tuition Reimbursement

Not all children with special needs respond well to the same kind of educational programming. As per the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the U.S. Special Education Law, if the parents of a child with special needs are dissatisfied with the teaching program offered by a public school district they can enroll their child in a state-approved private school and seek tuition reimbursement from the school district. However, a case for special education tuition reimbursement is considered valid only if the school district's individual education plan does not offer free appropriate public education, and if the private school into which the child is currently enrolled meets the child's special educational needs.

Starbucks Tuition Reimbursement

The Starbucks Tuition Reimbursement program is not centered on any particular school but is concerned with meeting the educational goals of its employees. In order to be eligible for the tuition reimbursement program, an employee must be on the U.S. payroll and be working in the company for a minimum period of one year. The reimbursement offered varies according to the designation and seniority of the employee in the organization. Along with tuition fees of the school, allied expenses like books and stationery also fall under the purview of this scheme.

Tags: tuition reimbursement, minimum period, order eligible, school district, active duty, applicant must

A List Of Research Paper Topics

Research paper topics are not hard to find.

Research paper topics are not hard to think of if you consider the many topics that you can find in diverse fields. Subjects in the areas of astronomy, social sciences and literature can all help you create a successful research topic and an interesting research paper to share with your classmates and your instructor.

Agriculture Change

The role of agriculture as an industry has changed in the United States during the 20th century. Write a report about whether this change is for better or for worse, and for whom. Focusing on the situation of the individual farmer verses corporate agriculture narrows the research paper.

Black Holes

Black holes are places where gravity has become strong enough to overwhelm all other forces in the universe, including light. Nothing can escape the clutches of these natural space monsters that threaten our galaxy and planet. A research paper about these denizens of the galaxy can give an exciting look at the ever changing universe around us.

Civil War Economics

A research paper about the differences between the economies of the North and South states before and after the Civil War can show how some states thrived while others suffered. Following up with information about the current economies of these states would create relevance to the present.

Life of The World's Oldest Tree

The world's oldest living tree is a bristlecone pine tree that is 4,776 years old. Writing about this ancient plant and how it has survived is a fascinating look at longevity.

Water Quality And Coal Mines

The digging of coal around communities creates slurries of toxic heavy metals such as arsenic, lead, manganese and iron that endanger residents in towns near coal mining operations. A research paper about coal slurry and water toxins is a research topic that is essential for those who are interested in environmental subjects.

Female Writers

Authors like Aphra Behn and Christine de Pisan are not well-recognized names to most people. Writing about these and other female writers can bring their ideas about female equality to a larger audience.

Tags: research paper, paper about, research paper about, about these, paper topics

Write Reference Letters For High School Acceptance

Writing a letter of recommendation for a high school student can be stressful.

If you're having trouble writing a reference letter for a high school student, you're not alone. There aren't too many high schools that require a reference letter as an acceptance requirement. It's a lot of pressure to play a role in whether or not a high school student is accepted into a competitive school. Take this as an opportunity to show the student that you believe in him. Your act of kindness will surely be appreciated.

Instructions

1. Interview the student. You'll need to know background information on the school, why the student wants to be accepted to this particular high school and why the student believes she should be accepted. Whether the interview is via telephone, e-mail or in person, you'll be able to identify her passions and what her strengths are.You'll be able to write the letter with a fresh feel of who the student is.

2. Explain in the letter your relationship to the student. Whether you're a family friend, a former teacher or a sports coach, you have seen a different side of the student. The admissions committee will want to know what perspective you're approaching the reference letter from. You'll also want to include how long you've known the student and how your relationship has grown over the years.

3. Use examples of the student's academic work. Use the information you gathered during the interview to discuss what you know of the student's academic career. If he spoke about a great English project or a very complicated math project that he was proud of, mention it in the letter.

4. Describe the student's personality and passions. If she is particularly hardworking outside of school, share examples of that. If the student is eager to get involved in the high school's marching band or is a volunteer at the local animal shelter, it speaks volumes about her personality and passions.

5. Give your opinion. The letter should have a personal touch. While examples of his work are absolutely necessary, showing that you have a real relationship with this student is valuable. The student's ability to have a relationship with an adult is just as important as his ability to build relationships with his peers. Include why you like spending time with the student and what your hopes are for his education.

6. Provide a strong, yet concise, closing. The admissions committee is already aware that you believe the student should be accepted to this high school; while you can reiterate it, be brief. Include your contact information in the closing, should the committee have any further questions.

Tags: school student, high school student, high school, high school, reference letter, accepted this, admissions committee

Types Of Fashion Merchandising

Types of Fashion Merchandising

A career in fashion merchandising extends beyond having a passion for clothing. Those who work as fashion merchandisers must also possess business savvy, and eye for trends, a knowledge of fabrics and textiles, and a keen sense of the history of fashion. Within the scope of fashion merchandising, there are several different job functions such as fashion buyers, coordinators, merchandisers, retailers, market researchers, public relations and advertising executives, fashion event planners, operation and store managers, fashion editors, product coordinators, developers, and importing and exporting agents.

Fashion Buyer

If you choose to become a fashion buyer within the fashion merchandising field, you will be creating the selection a store provides to its consumers. You literally set the tone for an entire market. Because designs can take up to a year to create ahead of time, buyers usually place orders with manufacturers well in advance. What this means for you is that you will have a sense of what will be a trend. You may travel the world attending fashion shows, meeting with designers and strategizing with marketing professionals. You may begin your career as a junior fashion buyer and climb the rank to a senior buyer; according to SimplyHired.com, a fashion buyer working in New York City can earn up to $90,000 annually.

Fashion Editor

Although being a fashion editor is highly coveted and sounds glamorous (thanks in part to films such as "The Devil Wears Prada"), it is definitely a job that will have you paying your dues. Before you can ever cover or attend a fashion show in Paris, you are running errands for senior fashion editors and picking up items of clothing to be photographed for the magazine or publication for which you work. With a degree in fashion merchandising (and a concentration on journalism/writing), you will have an edge, however. Salaries in this field begin low, according to Ed2010.com. Entry-level fashion editors usually start at $30,000 annually.

Get a Fashion Merchandising Job

There are many websites you can peruse to get a job in this field such as Mediabistro.com, Creativejobscentral.com or Ed2010.com. As well, it is wise to work at an internship at a fashion house, retailer or magazine to get your foot in the door. Many times, when a job opening is present, a person who worked as an intern is usually first in line for the job.

Tags: fashion editors, will have, annually Fashion, fashion buyer, Fashion Merchandising

Colleges That Offer A Master'S In Photography

The technology behind photographic technique has evolved significantly since the invention of the daguerrotype in 1829.

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programs in photography offer aspiring visual artists the chance to continue to refine their skills in an academic environment, while establishing professional contacts and networks through gallery showings and internships. Several colleges host MFA programs in photography.

Yale University

Located in New Haven, Connecticut, Yale University offers a two-year MFA degree in photography. Students enrolled in the program collaborate with their fellow students and faculty on artistic projects in conjunction with their individual endeavors. The faculty members within the photographic department critique the students' work on a weekly basis in addition to performing end-of-semester reviews. Prospective students must submit an online application to the program in addition to letters of recommendation and a creative portfolio.

Savannah College of Art and Design

The Atlanta, Hong Kong and Savannah branches of the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) offer an MFA degree in photography. The program includes courses in photographic arts, art criticism and photographic technique. SCAD offers internship programs to students within the program, giving them access to galleries and professional photography companies around the country. Recruiting events occur on campus that expose SCAD graduates to leading media companies. Prospective students must complete an online application and submit a creative portfolio of their previous work to the SCAD faculty.

Rhode Island School of Design

The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) offers an MFA degree in photography for students who have completed their undergraduate training. Courses within the MFA program include multiple critiques with RISD faculty. There are several electives for students, including lighting, documentary photography and large format photography. Students use a variety of professional equipment on campus to develop and print their film and digital art projects. Students interested in the program must complete an online application and submit a creative portfolio for review.

Columbia University

Columbia University offers a two-year Master of Visual Arts degree to students who have completed their undergraduate training and are choosing to continue their training in digital media, drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, installation and performance art. Students within the photography program attend weekly critiques by members of the visual art faculty. At the end of their first year of study, MFA candidates produce a formal exhibition of their works in a campus gallery. Following the end of their second and final year of study, students are required to display their thesis projects in a gallery outside of campus. Prospective students must complete an online application and submit a creative portfolio of their works.

Tags: creative portfolio, online application, application submit, application submit creative, complete online, complete online application, degree photography

Apply To A University In Canada

According to the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada, Canadian universities are beneficial to prospective students as they provide a wide array of options and diversity.

As many people, both Canadian and international, apply to Canadian universities, it is very competitive and not everyone who applies can be accepted. To improve your chances of being accepted to a Canadian university, it is important to understand the application process and make sure you have completed all the necessary steps at the appropriate time. Whether you're an international student or a local one, with a little bit of research and a few steps, you'll have your university application submitted in no time.

Instructions

1. Determine admission requirements. Requirements for admission to a Canadian university differ depending on the province, institution and the program, therefore it is important for prospective students to make sure they have a clear understanding of what the requirements are for the specific program they're interested in. Usually these requirements have to do with grades obtained during previous schooling, including high school and any previous post-secondary education, but some programs, such as music or liberal arts programs, may also require applicants to audition or write an essay. Specific requirements and additional information can be obtained through the university's admissions office, as well as on its website, usually in the "Prospective Students" section.

International students will also be required to show that the quality of previous education they received in their home country is equivalent or comparable to Canadian institutions. Canadian Universities each have their own criteria for evaluating and recognizing the education of international students, so it is important for international students to get in contact with the institution's admissions office or visit the "International Students" section of its website for further information.

2. Know when to apply. Because of the high volume of applications received by Canadian universities, admission is highly competitive and it is best to prepare and apply as early as possible. Schools in Canada, an online network for international students, recommends that international students apply up to eight months in advance of the semester in which they wish to enroll. However, some universities have specific time frames for international students to apply with differing deadlines for local students. Make sure to either contact the institution's admissions office or look up on its website which deadline applies to you.

3. Submit application. While the application process for each university may differ slightly, it is generally quite similar. Canadian universities usually have two ways for prospective students to apply-either through an online application form, which can be accessed through the university's website, or by mail. No matter which application method you use, there is usually a non-refundable application fee, generally about $50 to $100 CAD ($48 to $97 USD), to be paid before the application deadline. If you are applying by mail, make sure to consider delivery time-make sure not to send it too close to the application deadline as it may not get there in time.

After you have sent off your application, you should hear back from the institution notifying you of whether or not you've been accepted. This may take a few weeks or a few months, depending on when you applied.

Tags: admissions office, Canadian universities, prospective students, application deadline, application process, Canadian university, institution admissions

Navy Storekeeper Training

Storekeepers serve in the Supply Division, under the supervision of the Supply Officer.

Effective in April of 2010 the Storekeeper rating merged with the Postal Clerks to form a new rating named the Logistic Specialist (LS).

The storekeeper rating has a long history in the Navy. The purser and his assistants were responsible for ensuring that a ship was properly and timely supplied with all the necessities to complete a voyage. Over the years, as the system grew more complex the need for formal training grew greater. In some instances, though, a junior sailor with some experience may transfer to the storekeeper rating without attending school.

"A" School

The storekeepers "A" school in Meridian, Miss., provides the basics of the rating. Normally attended just out of boot camp, the sailor learns about the Navy ordering and supply system, inventory databases, correspondence, filing and record keeping, logistics, and financial management in the 40 calendar day school. A non-rated sailor already in the fleet who has not specialized in any area may request to attend the school.

On-The-Job Training

Storekeepers are almost always under the supervision of a senior, and on-the-job training is a continuous aspect of the way they learn their profession. Each step of the way is documented in their personal qualification standards permanent record, and must be signed off before the storekeeper is eligible for advancement.

A non-rated sailor who has not gone through an "A" school may request to "strike" for the storekeeper rating by extensive use of on-the-job training and passing the advancement test for Third Class Petty Officer.

Correspondence Courses

The Navy provides an extensive correspondence training course for the storekeeper rating, starting with the basic Third Class Petty Officer and continuing to Storekeeper Chief Petty Officer. Each book comes with comprehensive multiple choice tests that must be passed before the book is completed. Testing for advancement comes primarily from each book.

C Schools

Storekeepers with several years of service may attend "C" schools for advanced training. They study areas such as the Snap II Supply and Financial Management, air transportation specialists, and supply and accounting.

Military Training

Storekeepers are also military sailors, and are expected to be equally familiar with the duties involved with shipboard warfare. While aboard ships they are involved in extensive training through correspondence classes and OJT to earn the Surface Warfare (SW) recognition. Alternately, they may earn the Aviation Warfare (AW), Seabee Combat Warfare (SCW), or Submarine Warfare Specialist (SS) pins.

Tags: Petty Officer, storekeeper rating, Class Petty, Class Petty Officer, non-rated sailor

Plan For Repaying Your Student Loan

Student loans are used by nearly every student attending college. They are a fact of life for students. Those who have a repayment plan developed are ahead of the game when graduation rolls around. Student loan repayments begin just months after you graduate, so start planning for repayment now, before you fall behind.

Instructions

1. Set up a plan with your lender based on projected income. If you're an art history major, your income right out of school is lower on average than an engineer's. Predict how much money you'll be able to pay back as the years pass.

2. Most of the time there is a grace period following your graduation before you have to begin paying back your loan. Don't just count on this, though. Confirm with your lender and then factor it into your repayment plan.

3. Establish a budget with all your fixed and adjustable costs. Prioritize this list, with student loans being near the top.

4. Review the option of consolidation for multiple loans. A consolidated payment plan allows you to pay one easy monthly payment with lower rates and longer terms.

Tags: with your, repayment plan, with your lender, your lender

Private Student Loans

Private student loans are used to supplement the grants and scholarships that make up most students' financial aid packages. These loans are available from federal and state governments and from private lenders. Private student loans are much like personal loans, except they are structured for students. These loans often mimic the government-run loan programs with repayment terms and forbearance/deferment options.

Function

The function of a private student loan is to address the needs of those who do not qualify for government loans or those who do not receive enough aid (in grants and scholarships) to cover the cost of schooling. Often, loans are used to cover the cost of living while the student is in school. Qualifying for these loans involves the same structure as applying for other personal loans. A good credit rating, history of on-time installment payments and qualifying debt-to-income ratio still apply. That's true even though they may not be weighted as heavily as other personal loans. It's important to examine your household budget before applying for any loan, even one that is geared towards students.

Features

Private student loans often carry a higher interest rate than government-sponsored student loan programs and also often require the student to make some payments while enrolled in school. (Most government student loans only require monthly loan payments after the student has left or graduated school.) The private loans may ask a student to pay minimum payments through school, or they may offer interest-only payments while the student is in school. Some private lenders will follow the same procedure as the government in allowing no payments during school, deferment or forbearance. The life of the loan can vary from one year to up to ten years, with interest rates slightly higher than the federal student loan interest rate.

Types

A large variety of private student loans are available from various lenders. These are classified into loans for graduate and undergraduate loans. Private student loans typically have a lower interest rate than simple personal loans. This interest rate will most often be a variable APR based on the student's credit rating. Repayment terms are often incorporated into the loan structure. These terms will be compatible with school scheduling and expected graduation dates.

Considerations

When shopping for a private student loan, it's always a good idea to begin with your current banking institution. As a member or customer, you'll be eligible for the loans your bank offers for students. You may want to contact other banking institutions before making a final decision. Comparing interest rates and terms will make sure that you take out only the most suitable loan for your lifestyle. A few good places to start your search for a private student loan include Wachovia, JP MorganChase, Citibank, WellsFargo, and Bank of America. Additionally, many regional or local banks offer loans through their local branches. Most of these institutions offer online or phone applications that can be reviewed quickly. Each institution offers Stafford and Perkins loans as well as private loans. These loans will be listed separately on their Websites and literature. Before applying, make sure you have your personal and financial information available. You'll likely also need your school and enrollment records.

Warning

Private student loans are just as dangerous as other loans can be for credit ratings and history. Although they are geared towards students, with lower rates and modified repayment plans, these loans can still add up quickly. The loans can damage your credit rating if not dealt with responsibly by making on-time payments and applying for deferment or forbearance when necessary. Utilizing loans instead of scholarships or grants can also mean a student will graduate with a large amount of debt upon their entry into the professional world. It can cause financial stress in recent graduates who are looking for careers.

Tags: student loans, Private student, student loan, interest rate, personal loans

Write An Academic Letter Of Intent

Writing academic letters of intent is a common occurrence in higher education.

In the field of academia, you may be called upon to write a letter of intent, or "statement of purpose." These are especially required when applying to an academic program or asking for grant funding. This letter offers your reviewer the opportunity to understand your academic goals and achievements. When developing your letter of intent, you want to be sure it is clear and to the point, but demonstrates your value to the institution.

Instructions

1. Format your letter of intent in standard business letter format. In order to be considered for admission or funding, you will need to make sure your letter is sent to the right person. If necessary, call the organization and ask for the specific name and title of the person your letter should be addressed to.

2. Introduce yourself to your reader. Detail the education you have received thus far and what you are asking for in this letter. Explain what you want to study and why it would benefit the institution. If you have already met the person you are writing to, include this towards to beginning to grab interest and help jog the reader's memory.

3. Describe the motivators that led up to your chosen field of study. This is your opportunity to give your reader a little background of who you are, why you want to be involved with this particular program and what you have to offer the institution.

4. Detail why you are best suited for this particular program. Use this space to talk yourself up, but keep it relevant to the topic at hand. If you are a high school student applying to college, you may include details that show you are a well-rounded student. If you are applying for a graduate level program or looking for funding, avoid any "fluff" by keeping your details exclusively relevant to your request.

5. Compliment the institution wherever possible. Demonstrate your understanding of the institution and why you would be the right fit. This shows that you have specific interest in the institution or department you are applying to be involved with, while demonstrating that you would be the right fit.

6. Edit and revise as needed. In order to leave your best lasting impression with the reader and improve your chances of having your request approved, you will need to be sure your letter is free of any redundancies or typographical errors which may question your legitimacy as a candidate.

Tags: your letter, letter intent, involved with, particular program, student applying

Change Your Peace Corps Nomination

The Peace Corp gives you the opportunity to help people in need around the world.

Joining the Peace Corps lets you experience new environments and cultures, because the Corps allows you to serve in an area of the world that you prefer. These interactions become a pathway that will allow you to widen your perspective and knowledge of the world. However, unforeseen circumstances, both positive and negative, could make you want to change your location after you submit an application. Do not worry, though: There is hope for a second choice!

Instructions

1. Applications are useful tools that highlight your strengths to others.

Complete a Peace Corps application. To get nominated to your preferred country, select that country in the drop-down box on your application. If the preferred country, language or school is not listed, select "Other" and discuss your selection in your interview. If you have already submitted an application but have changed your mind about your preferred country, you must also communicate this during your interview.

2. Interviews are used to assess the applicant and how he will be an asset to the Peace Corps.

Schedule an interview. The Peace Corps should contact you to arrange an interview within two weeks after you submit your application. Make a good impression on the interviewer, especially if you are asking him to change your preference. If there is a particular reason for changing your selection, tell him, because changing the selection later can cause more problems.

3. Set up a time to meet with your recruiter for nomination. If you have passed the preliminary checks, a recruiter will recommend that you be assigned to a specific area based on your initial choice, or your second choice as discussed with the interviewer. Speaking with the recruiter is your last chance to change your placement preference before it becomes permanent. It is the recruiter who determines whether a change can be made to your application.

Tags: Peace Corps, preferred country, your application, after submit, change your, second choice

What Disqualifies You From The Pell Grant

Pell Grants are available to low-income college students.

The Federal Pell Grant Program helps college students pay for financial obligations associated with higher learning. Pell grants, formerly called Basic Educational Opportunity Grants, are awarded to students who show a need and who meet eligibility requirements. Students who qualify for Pell Grants may use the grant money at one of more than 5,400 institutions of higher learning in the United States.

Not Enough Financial Need

You must show that you have sufficient financial need to receive a Federal Pell Grant. The formula used to determine financial need includes subtracting the expected family contribution (from you or your parents) from the cost of attendance. The amount that remains is considered to be the financial need. The expected family contribution is assigned to you after evaluators take into account your overall financial situation. If your expected financial contribution is more than $5,273 for the school year, you are not eligible a Pell Grant.

No Citizenship

Federal Pell Grant Program applicants must be United States citizens or permanent residents. In rare instances, non-citizens may receive Pell Grant money.

No Diploma

If you have not received your high school diploma, you may not be eligible for a Pell Grant. You are still eligible if you have passed the General Educational Development (GED) test or can pass an "ability to benefit" competency test.

Haven't Registered for Selective Service

Men who reach 18 years of age or are between 18 and 35 and have become United States citizens are required by law to register for Selective Service. Eligible men who do not register cannot receive a Pell Grant.

Full Scholarship

You are not eligible for a Pell grant if you have received a full scholarship from the institution of higher learning you are attending that covers all of your education-related expenditures for the upcoming school year.

Tags: Pell Grant, eligible Pell, Federal Pell, Federal Pell Grant, higher learning

The Importance Of Contingencies In Business Planning

Contingency planning protects businesses.

Contingency planning helps companies handle adverse events with minimal interruption to business activities. Effective contingency plans identify threats to the organization, methods to verify when a threat condition occurs and options to deal with the threat. Employees need training in corporate-level contingency plans, and risk management contingency planning should be part of project management.

Financial Loss

Contingency planning includes purchasing business insurance, such as liability coverage, property insurance and business income insurance. A business needs liability insurance for products or services that cause damage to an individual. The harm may come from committed acts, such as faulty design, or from acts of omission, such as failure to warn of hazards. Property insurance includes coverage for loss due to theft, accidental damage and acts of nature, other than floods. Business income insurance provides compensation for losses in revenue due to a disruption of business operations, and may include costs of leasing temporary space if you need to change your location during repairs.

Data Loss

Computers store valuable information that allows businesses to maintain financial controls and monitor operational and project performance. Customer and employee information lives in computers, often without paper backup. Contingency planning must include routine, off-site storage of data. Small companies and sole proprietorships can choose online data storage services. Larger organizations should establish data backup procedures for critical information. Although you can save daily data backups on-site, effective contingency planning requires a remote storage location to protect against property damage.

Project Risk Management

Managing project risks involves using experience gained from previous projects, either directly or through archived lessons learned stored in the corporation's documents. Chapter 11 of "A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge" from the Project Management Institute suggests that project contingency planning begins with identifying potential risks to project success. Following identification, managers assess each risk qualitatively in terms of potential damage and quantitative probability of occurrence. Risks that rank high for damage costs or likelihood require contingency plans.

Problem Prevention

After developing contingency plans, senior managers should distribute procedures and guidance to all employees, based on the employee's location and job responsibilities. Formal training programs reinforce the need to prevent problems and recognize early signs of threat conditions. Establishing a succession plan for key positions and a decision-making hierarchy helps employees find the appropriate contact person when needed.

Tags: contingency plans, contingency planning, Contingency planning, Contingency planning, income insurance, insurance business