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A Career Tip for Students – Have a Back-Up Plan

How many people do you know from college who ended up employed in careers absolutely unrelated to their degrees? I know a few … actually, quite a few. Indeed, I would venture to say that a sizeable majority of college grads are now doing exactly what they did not set out to do. Out of survival necessity, or because a new dose of reality changed their interests or plans, they failed to something that simply did not figure into their original thinking. Dave has a BA in anthropology from the University of Washington, but, six years of stock clerk jobs later, along with some significant re-schooling, we see him working as a software engineer with Lockheed Martin. Janet has a BS in art history, but marriage, children, the cost of living, and the job market have directed her to re-train as a medical assistant. She is now working at a major hospital. These are both fictional characters and events, but they are based on an army of real cases.

So, if you are a student early in your college career and you are still thinking about choosing a major, or if you are a high school graduate looking forward, here is a piece of advice – do not choose a major. Choose TWO majors. Particularly if your major major (which you are passionately attached to) is not something "hot", as the job market goes, you may want to explore a second major that piques your interest but at the same time will afford you practical work opportunities as soon as possible after you graduate. In other words – HAVE A BACK-UP PLAN. This may mean taking a few extra courses. This may mean re-orienting your thinking a little about your future and your dreams. Here is a good first step in that direction: Check out the Occupational Outlook Handbook online by going to bls.gov/oco.

This is an excellent and comprehensive source of information about a variety of occupations. It is produced and updated by the US Department of Labor and it is entirely online – no need to purchase or order anything or complete an online registration form. For hundreds of occupations, this Handbook will tell you about training and education required, salaries, what the workers do on the job, the working conditions, information about the job market for each state, and, possibly most relevant to our topic – expected job prospects and job search tips. After you have done a little homework with this and any other sources you can get your hands on, then look at the school programs and requirements related to your choice (or short-list of choices, as the case may be).

Always remember that, no matter what your career passion is at the moment, it is a good thing to diversify. Go for two or more skill / education sets, rather than one. You may be glad you did … and you may have a little more control over your future as a result, instead …

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English Law

English law is practised worldwide as many legal systems are based on English Common Law. Over the years, countries have modified this to reflect their needs but its influence is still evident within the legal policies and traditions of many countries, including several American States.

There are countries which have steadfastly adhered to English legal traditions and they have retained the Privy Council in London as their ultimate Court of Appeal. Others have replaced wigs and gowns with more modern attire, legal terminology have been replaced by plain terms and some court procedures have been simplified.

English Law covers the geographical areas of England and Wales. Scotland enjoys its own legal system and although Wales has undergone devolution with the creation of the new Welsh Assembly, it is still bound within Civil and Criminal Law to the laws of England.

One of the peculiarities of our system is the Divided Profession of Solicitors and Barristers. Solicitors are general legal practitioners who can either specialise in one aspect of law or they can offer legal services in all areas. Barristers are our litigation specialists who can be instructed by solicitors whenever there are more complicated court cases. Many overseas countries do not have this division and there legal professionals are ‘Attorneys’, who can offer all aspects of legal work including taking highly complicated cases through the courts.

All this makes it easier to achieve an international qualification from a UK-based institution, especially for students of the Commonwealth.

With the increasing popularity and acceptance of online courses, qualifying in English Law has never been more convenient. The number of students with Paralegal qualifications in particular has increased and students worldwide are reaping the benefits. Law degrees are another popular option with some UK universities offering online degrees. Having a paralegal qualification will aid with being accepted within universities and this is a huge benefit for mature students.

Anyone contemplating whether it is beneficial to pursue a UK qualification in law should be assured that it is. An English qualification is still one which is highly respected but prospective students should carry out ‘due diligence’ to ensure that the institution with which they choose to study, offers an appropriate course.

Mature students are now experiencing life-changing career benefits, made possible by institutions such as the Online Training College, which offers Paralegal and Legal Secretary qualifications globally. Many students can progress to be undergraduates of UK universities, writing law. This level of achievement could not have been contemplated until a few years ago and has brought significant career opportunities because English Law is universal.

It is never too late to re-invent oneself and a course in English Law may be the perfect way to begin.…

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The Importance of Secondary Education

Education forms an important part of a person’s life as it enables them to gain the skills that are needed to face life situations. It is a must for every person to gain the right education and to pass on from one level of studies to another so that he or she gains the knowledge needed to handle life situation and work demands that come at a later point in life. As part of the process of gaining the right education, it is necessary for a person to attend secondary education.

Right after primary school, a child has to pass onto secondary education, which is one of the key aspects of education, after which college education will follow. Secondary education centers are referred to as middle schools, preparatory schools, high schools, vocational schools and so on, depending on their education objective.

Secondary education is referred to as K-12 education in the United States, Australia and Canada and in New Zealand it is referred to as 1-13. In Europe, it came into place in the 16th century, while in the United States it came into existence only in the early 19th century as a result of factories opening up, which created the need for skilled workers.

It is vital for every student to have a secondary education, because it serves as the link between what they imbibe in primary school and college education. Much vital knowledge that helps a growing mind to think, analyze and study the world around them, is developed and enhanced even further as a result of what is learnt or imbibed in primary school. Colleges demand that a student must complete their education before he or she can move onto gaining college admission because it provide the complete foundation upon which students can build a higher educational framework.…

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College Loan Consolidation – What You Need To Know

The rise in demand for college loan consolidation services is directly related to the costs involved with obtaining a college or university degree. Fueling the demand is the increasing cost of private institutions in the United States. Whether it's for graduate school or to study abroad, students are mounting massive debts beyond what was reasonable years ago. The gap is widening between the cost of obtaining a degree and the financial aid given to assist those in need of funds. Today's graduating students are faced with a vicious cycle of borrowing more in order to pay college tuition. College loan consolidation can ease the burden after graduation by setting up a program to help manage your college debt.

College loan consolidation is a service that allows students to reduce the amount of their monthly installments in order to repay their student loans. This is done through one combined loan with an extended payment schedule which results in a lesser monthly payment. There are other benefits as well. Did you know that you could potentially save thousands of dollars in student loan interest fees over the life of your loan? By locking in fixed interest rates you can help avoid fluctuating interest fees. The savings on fees and lower monthly payments gives you more flexibility with your money. You could either save the money, invest it, or take a well deserved vacation.

Keep in mind that if you are thinking of college loan consolidation, that it is a good idea to separate the consolidation of your private student loans and your federal student loans. A potential downside to combining both is that you could lose the interest tax deduction benefit on your federal student loans.

On a final note, the lender you choose plays an important part in the college loan consolidation process so it is important to find a reputable company which has evidence of its credibility. Interestingly, some lenders may offer incentives via interest rate reduction if past student loan payments were made consecutively on time. It is just a matter of taking the time to compare different incentives between lending companies. Loan counselors should be able to assist you on the site of your choice to help you decide if what they are offering is what's best for you.

Image loan consolidation is a worthy option and can help to put more cash in your pocket. Currently, interest rates are quite low so now is a good time to research lenders and take advantage of the benefits. …

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Career Consultants That Help You With A Career Transition

Some care consultants specialize in transitions. A transition consultant is someone who can help you get out of your current industry and into a new one. These consultants have different roles since job seekers all have different needs. For instance, some people need help transfering their skills. Others need help adapting the skills necessary for their new careers.

Whatever it is you need help with, there are certain things you should expect from career consultants: modern approaches to job seeking and career changing; recruitment expertise; a willingness to keep in contact with you, and quality service. Keep in mind that transition consultants are not recruitment consultants. They do, however, have knowledge of the recruitment industry.

Here is an example of how these types of career consultants can help job-seekers: a builder with limited qualifications is looking for a job in advertising. He or she needs help identifying the relevant transferrable skills and pointing them towards new opportunities and training programs. A career transition consultant will help that individual get into his or her new career as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Do you really need these types of services? Well, you could always enter employment and look for jobs on your own. However, you might not be successful. You can increase your chances of finding opportunities if you acquire the services of a consultant. A consultant can help you improve the effectiveness of your search.

Do you have specialized skills? Have you been working in the same industry for many years? Do you find it difficult to move from one industry to the next? If so, then it's in your best interest to explore various avenues. Consulting with a career transition professional should prove beneficial to you. Just make sure you do research on a few career consultants before settling on one. Choose one who has experience with the type of service you need. …

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Your Guide To Earn An Online Bachelor Degree In Nursing

You might be or you might not be aware that health care industry is one of the booming sectors for next 5 years especially in nursing field with a projection of 27% increase in employment. Here, if you are interested and considering to earn a nursing degree online, you definite are in the right career path.

There are many accredited online universities offering online nursing degree programs with emphasis in various fields. You should spend some time to consider the available options to decide which online nursing degree program that meets your education & career goal. Here is a step by step guide to help you earn an online bachelor degree in nursing.

Step 1: Determine The Right Online University

In the process of short listed your online universities of choice, you need to select only the online universities that are accredited by USA's recognized and legitimate accreditation agency. Non-accredited online degree program will make your degree rejected by most of employers.

Although there are many online universities offering bachelor degree in nursing, the degree may be varied from one online university to another online university; they might be different in area of ​​focus. Be sure to review each of bachelor degree in nursing programs you are interested in and determine that the program is able to meet your needs in courses and in budget.

Step 2: Determine What Is Required To Earn The Bachelor Degree In Nursing

Ask the online universities to send you their bachelor nursing degree programs; look at the curriculum, determine if the time frame will work for you as well as the course of study. You may want to consider several nursing schools and determine which offers more of what you are looking to learn. Many online nursing schools offer flexibility in terms of time. Most of online bachelor nursing degree will require you to spend a certain hours in clinical assignment in order to earn the degree; If you are a working while getting you online degree, you may want to ensure that you are able to fit into the clinical schedule.

Step 3: Determine The Financial Aid Available

If tuition fee is you concern, you might want to consider an online university which can offer you the flexibility in your tuition fee payment. Many online universities do offer scholarships and loans to their online students; you can get the information from admission department of these online universities.

Step 4: Enroll into Your Select Online Nursing Program

Once you have finalized the online university and the online nursing degree program that you are interested in. Ensure you meet the pre-requirement of your selected online nursing degree program; there may be many specific things that you have to do to qualify to get into the program. There may also be deadlines to consider. Look for the methods that fit your needs here.

Step 5: Be Prepared As An Online Student

Just like any other process of learning, you need to prepare yourself for your steps …

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Empty Suited Job Hunters

Have you seen the reality TV shows that teach people how to improve their image? I am referring to old programs like Image Makeover, What Not to Wear, Queer Eye, and Ambush Makeover. This season on American Idol, Tommy Hilfiger is providing image coaching to help the contestants begin to look like music stars. For the contestants who choose to listen to Tommy, you can actually see their transformation.

Job hunters go through a more elaborate makeover process. In addition to updating your occupational skills, you learn how to update your resume, customize your cover letter, dress for success, create your personal branding, build confidence, get connected to social networks, lose weight, dress for success, make your elevator pitch, and then practice your interview skills.

Image makeovers play an important role in helping you look good, and create a favorable first impression. They can also make you feel good, as in confident, self-assured and at ease in mixed or new company.

That’s the good news about image makeovers, but here is the real reality job hunters should be aware of. While looking good and feeling good may help you qualify for consideration, what keeps your foot in the door is your ability to qualify for hire.

If you cannot perform well, your credentials and made over image are pointless. This is what recruiters describe as an empty suit. You may look good on the outside, but there is no business justification to hire you if you lack the horsepower to perform well on the inside. You need the total package that spans the following three categories:

  • Priority 1, Performance Skills – your resilient mindset, flexible attitude, and adaptable personality to regulate self-motivation, good efforts, results, and any preferred characteristics (i.e., pace, sense of urgency, confidence, honesty, commitment, etc.).

  • Priority 2, Occupational Skills – certifications, academic credentials and practical experiences that build professional, technical and administrative know how related to a specific job, career, or vocation.

  • Priority 3, Job Search Skills – career planning, company research, resume writing and distribution, polished image, personal branding, time management, cold calling, networking abilities, practiced interviewing, and negotiating.

Experts agree your priority 2 and 3 skills are essential to help you qualify for consideration. However, to get the job you must also qualify for hire by demonstrating the priority 1 performance skills. Interviewers may refer to those skills as your fit and chemistry to the job and organization. If interviewers believe you have the right fit and chemistry, you may get the job even if you don’t have the best occupational and job search skills. Your priority 1 skills can often trump your occupational and job search skills in importance to employers that are concerned about improving productivity.

Despite the importance of priority 1 skills, state governments and academic institutions are oriented to provide training related to priorities 2 and 3. You can also find thousands of Internet sites that provide free redundant training and learning resources related to priority 3. Training on those lesser …

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A Bondage of Education

From a very early age I can remember my parents, teachers, and friends discussing this idea of ​​education. What it is, what it should be, what it could be, but more importantly how I would use it to "further" my life. I had this notification that education was going to school, remembering what the teacher said, applying it to a test, and repeating the routine for the next twelve years. The term "career ready" is not only whatAVE me the desire to have straight A's in high school, but what brought me to a university. I came with hope to finally break away from the restraint that I believed was only a result of what a high school education could do to an individual's mind, but quickly came to realize that a "liberal education" from college was not that different. Liberal education was designed to free individuals from the bonds that society placed upon them, but present-day education is what holds those bonds together.

I will never forget the first time I failed a test. It was in fifth with one of my favorite teachers. I remember receiving the test back with a zero on the front and instantly covering the test up so no one could not see the sign of failure. The teacher must have seen my shock because I was told to stay after class. She explained to me how I had made a 100 but I did not "take the test right" which is what sent in the zero. From then on, I developed what college students call "test anxiety." I worked to follow directions, to be structured, and to never ask a question that could possibly be wrong. I made straight A's, participating in school organizations, was president of my class, and lived to fill the resume that would be sent to potential colleges. I did what students are expected to do. When I came to college I was excited because I could finally learn outside the perimeters of standardized tests. What I did not expect was to hear phrases from professors such as, "do not worry this will not be on the test," or or having to spend thirty minutes of class listening to students ask how many questions will be on the exam. Teachers from my high school always told us, "college will not be like this, so enjoy it while you can," but it was all the same. Listen, take notes, memorize, take test, repeat.

I began to realize that maybe this was what education was intended to be. A system that engrains students with the idea that to conform and restrain one's mind to standardization is what makes us "successful." David Brooks discusses how college students are "goal-orientated … a means for self-improvement, resume-building, and enrichment. next step. " Students go through elementary, junior high, high school, and now even universities not to "free our minds" or truly educating ourselves, but to climb the ladder of social order. One can refer …

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Photo Book Stores: What a Racket

If you are in college right now you are probably ready to go spend a few hundred dollars on books for this coming semester. Hopefully you have noticed how expensive these books are. The college book store's prices are high! The worst part about it is that they buy books back from students for next to nothing, and they sell them for triple what they paid for them.

Another tactic used by the book stores to make more money is to sell the new volume of the required text. This means that the students who have the old volumes are stuck with a book that they can not sell, and the next round of students must buy the ridiculously over-priced new edition. This usually happens without warning and is not known until the school's book store refuses to buy back certain books. If you are lucky your teacher will base his or her course on material that is covered in both old and new editions, and you can pick up an old edition from a friend for a relatively cheap price.

Some college students care enough to get their books somewhere else like EBay or Amazon. Other students just can not refuse the low cash offer for their valuable books at the end of the term. Students could save more money if they use some kind of book exchange service that is non-profit. Although for the time being sites like Amazon and EBay will suffice. College students need to utilize their networks to do something about getting ripped off every semester. …

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Requirements for UK University Level Foundation Courses

If you are a student who is not a resident of a European Union country, then there are certain requirements you must know about in order to attend foundation courses at a United Kingdom facility. Here is a general outline of those standards that must be met at most educational institutions offering degree programs to foreign nationals.

Government Requirements

Any international student wishing to attend a school in the UK must obtain the appropriate visa. New this year to the process is a points system instituted by the government.

Tier 4 is the level of points applicable to students. As part of their visa application, prospective students must include the sponsor license number of a properly accredited and licensed university. Be sure you have this number in place before submitting your visa application.

University Requirements

First and foremost you will be required to have a minimum number of General Certificates of Secondary Education (GCSE). Usually these must include courses in English and Mathematics, for any number of degree programs, although there are some equivalency standards which may apply in your specific case. Some universities will also ask for a certificate of your secondary school completion.

Many times there is a minimum age requirement, as well. Most universities accepting international students ask that students are at least 17 years old. This is no doubt due to a certain level of maturity required to attend an institution of higher learning in a foreign land.

For students whose first language is other than English, an optimal score on the International English Language Testing System is a must. Some universities offer their own internal testing system if this requirement has not been met. Support for further study in the English language is usually provided by the university foundation course.

About University Foundation Courses

University foundation courses (UFCs) are designed to give a student unfamiliar with certain concepts and terminology the opportunity to develop a further understanding and the necessary skills to complete the coursework for various degrees. A UFC generally lasts three to four terms and replace the matriculation requirement that students reach A level to register for courses and begin their academic career.

There are certain core modules which will be taught in a UFC. These modules will relate directly to a student's proposed degree coursework. Instruction is usually accomplished through traditional university lectures, tutorials, group studies, and individual coursework. End of course examinations will determine the student's final mark.

Students who complete the foundation program must do so with a minimum acceptable grade and the expectation that English language skills will have been further developed.

For students living outside the EU who wants to attend a university in the UK, taking university foundation courses is an excellent way to fast track to degree coursework. These classes teach more than just the basics; they provide an extended orientation into the country itself and a way for foreign nationals to feel welcomed and accepted before plunging directly into studies. …