Question: How did your education help prepare you for your career?

Answer: My education has been integral to my success.  An ‘eye’ for design is not enough; a firm grasp of basic business principles is essential to succeed in this industry.  If you can’t manage the project, your team, the budget or administer the process while you’re also keeping your hands on the wheel of your business, no amount of “make pretty” will keep you afloat.  An education is crucial; I wouldn’t be where I am today without the confidence and skills my education provided.

Now we pose the question to you: How has your education helped equip you for your career?

Erica Swanson’s Bio: I’m an Interior Designer which is a fancy-pants way of saying I create kick-ass spaces for wickedly cool people.  I listen.  I translate.  I initiate.  And then I deliver you, You.  I do that with my ‘Design on the Dirty’ virtual design services available anywhere in North America.  With laser-focused intuition, I create customized design and decorating plans delivered digitally or right to your doorstep.  Because it isn’t about this year’s hottest paint colour, this year’s trends, or what the Jones’ are doing.  It’s about you.  You can find me at www.ericaswansondesign.com and on Twitter @erica_swanson where I post about creativity, art and interior design.  But don’t just take my word for it; I’ve been featured on national television, radio, in books, magazines, and in both of Canada’s national newspapers.  So what are you waiting for?

PR: wait… I: wait… L: wait… LD: wait… I: wait… wait… Rank: wait… Traffic: wait… Price: wait… C: wait…

Nintendo Video Game Designer Shigeru Miyamoto. Photo c/o Lawrence K. Ho / LA Times

Shigeru Miyamoto is Nintendo’s chief video game designer and the creative genius behind their best-selling games including Mario, Donkey Kong, and Zelda.  He’s also the legend video game designers aspire to be.

A natural innovator, Miyamoto received his formal education from the Kanazawa College of Industrial Arts in Japan and finds inspiration from real life experiences for video games.  Wii Fit came about as a result of his family’s efforts to get healthier, hit the gym regularly, and track their weight.  “It made me think that perhaps health could be a subject for a game,” Miyamoto told The Sunday Times.  And thus Wii Fit was born.

When Miyamoto got a puppy, the dog training class with his sheltie inspired him to create the video game Nintendogs.  When asked about Nintendogs’ popularity, he reports, “rather than trying to follow industry trends, it’s based on things that people find appealing in general. Not just what they find appealing in a video game.”

Video game design and development is a popular field that relates not only to fictitious worlds, but as Miyamoto shows us, the one we know and love.

• In a recent survey conducted by the Distance Education and Training Council, 100% of employers surveyed reported that employees who had graduated with online degrees performed better on the job as a result of their experiences.
• In the same study, employers reported that employees who had an online degree compared favorably to employees who had earned traditional degrees.
• In an Edventures 2005 Continuing and Professional Education report, 62% of 505 employers surveyed (including companies such as Bank of America, DaimlerChrysler, and the United States Air Force) thought that online education was equal to or superior than classroom education.

It’s clear that online degrees have favorable perceived value from employers, allowing students with online degrees to compete against their counterparts with traditional degrees.  To find more information about online degrees in your area, visit My Colleges and Careers.

Ash from Iceland volcano halts European travel

So far 2010 has seen serious disasters that have debilitated a nation, halted European air travel, and left a million people homeless.  Here are some of the biggest natural disasters that affected the planet so far in 2010.

• 7.0 quake hits Haiti; ‘Serious loss of life expected.’ | 230,000 dead
• Chile reels from 8.8 earthquake | 700 dead
• China Earthquake: 6.9 Quake Strikes Qinghai Province | 1100 dead
• Volcanic ash from Iceland halts flights in Northern Europe | 17,000 flights canceled, tens of thousands stranded

Since the devastation of the recent awe inspiring earthquakes, people everywhere have been looking for opportunities to help.  There are trained professionals who have received the necessary degrees and training who are ready to pick up the pieces after a major natural disasters and are among the first on site after disaster strikes.  These everyday heroes include Emergency Management Specialists, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) and Paramedics, and Law Enforcement.

Emergency Management Specialist

An Emergency Management Specialist helps plan for emergencies before they happen and provide disaster relief after a natural disaster, wartime or technological disaster, or hostage situation.  Should disaster strike, these professionals help to coordinate relief response in a timely manner, ensuring that the victims receive basic living essentials, such as clean water, food, housing, sanitation, and first aid.

Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics

Emergency Responders in Haiti. Photo c/o Margaret Aguirre, International Medical Corps.

Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and Paramedics provide emergency care, and transport the injured to a medical facility to receive appropriate care.  Due to their medical training, EMTs are qualified to diagnose a patient’s injuries on site, provide first aid treatment, and manage cardiac, trauma, and respiratory emergencies.

Law Enforcement

Law Enforcement play a critical role after a natural disaster in keeping order during the chaos that ensues in an emergency.  Law Enforcement are charged with the responsibility to preserve life and property, a critical role in the aftermath of a natural disaster.

If you have felt a need to make a difference in the aftermath of these terrible natural disasters, consider enrolling in a program and working towards a career as an Emergency Management Specialist, EMT and Paramedic, or Law Enforcement.  Your career will make a difference.

Many people believe that there are only a few careers where there is money to be made. We think that you have to be a doctor or a lawyer to get your hands on some green that but is becoming more and more untrue everyday. While you can make money doing those things there are hundreds of other careers and occupations that can put you in the six-digit range. We here at My Colleges and Careers are just as excited at the idea of you rolling off in a Mercedes Benz G Wagon or a Masserati as you are. But in order to do that you have to get that education and training. Do you know how much these careers pull in?

Check out the My Colleges and Careers Salary Quiz

When did you become interested in nursing?

I became interested in nursing after my freshman year of college. I was Pre-Med and the fit just didn’t seem right for my long term goals. I knew I wanted to be a mom, but at the same time, I wanted to have a career. I love that nursing will afford me the opportunity to identify with something outside of mothering. Also, after a few years of work experience, I plan to go back to school and get my master’s degree and become a nurse practitioner, or possibly even get my Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I love that I have these choices!

What is your favorite part of being an RN?

I love that I am always learning! It can be frustrating at times to not know everything, but the learning and growth can be so rewarding because you really see the impact in people’s lives! As a nurse you get to be with your patients during some of their most vulnerable times–being a part of that and helping them through the process of healing, loss, whatever their situation may be is really fulfilling.

What has been particularly memorable about your job now or nursing school?

I can’t pinpoint one single patient. You see everything in nursing! Really, everything.

“You see everything in nursing! Really, everything.”

I love the growth that I have seen in myself throughout nursing school, and even now as a RN- I learn something new each day, and have so much left to learn. I also love knowing that I really helped someone in my day.

What is the “NCLEX-PN” exam?

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN’s) are required to take the NCLEX-PN exam in order to become licensed. Each state has different standards that it requires for certified Registered Nurses.

• A strong sense of right and wrong
• Strong work ethic
• Ability to think on your feet
• Flexibility
• Organization!

What is something most don’t realize about nursing?

It’s a lot of work!

Thanks Becky! Best wishes to you in all of your endeavors!

For more information about nursing degrees and careers, visit My Colleges and Careers.

Fun Fact: Married with two children, Hyland just completed her first triathlon last weekend. No big deal at all…

What made you interested in nursing?

My grandma was a Labor and Delivery nurse and growing up, my family and I always talked with her about her career which made me very interested in health care.  As I got older, I recognized I really enjoyed working with and helping people and I was particularly keen on the variety of opportunities and flexibility within the world of nursing.

What are your typical daily responsibilities as a nurse?

Currently I work as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with two pediatrician’s in a pediatric office. I work completely autonomously in the care of children with ages ranging from birth – 21 years. My responsibilities include baby/child/teenage check-up’s and sports physicals, diagnosing and treating illnesses, writing prescriptions, and ordering and interpreting labs, x-rays and other tests.

What is your favorite part of the job?

Every area of nursing has its pros and cons, with unforgettable patients in each setting.

What are some of the different levels of training and certification involved in the nursing field?

There are a variety of of training and certifications in the nursing field which one of the reasons nursing is so appealing to me.  I received my BSN as a registered nurse (RN) and then completed a master’s degree as a nurse practitioner specializing in pediatrics (PNP).

What are some misconceptions about nursing?

The only misconception about nursing that comes to mind is that it’s only for women. I have worked with a lot of men (particularly in the ICU settings) and they are amazing nurses: patients and families love them.  Nursing is a great career that is flexible, in high demand and you can make great money- male or female.

What are some personality traits that work well in nursing?

Personality traits that work well in nursing include being detail-oriented, compassionate, a good listener, multi-tasker, and the ability to work well with people.

What is something that most people don’t know about nurses?

Most people don’t realize how hard nurses work: it is physically, emotionally, and mentally challenging at times, but also well worth it.

Most people don’t realize how hard nurses work: it is physically, emotionally and mentally challenging at times but also well worth it.

Thank you SueAnn! We realize you are doing phenomenal things in nursing, and wish you continued success!

For more information about careers in nursing, visit My Colleges and Careers.

NATURE OF THE WORK

Food service catering industry events range from corporate lunch box drop-off to full-service wedding receptions. However, usually an event caterer’s responsibility involves managing wait staff serving tables or self-serve buffets at banquets, conventions, and weddings.

Although food is the focal point, caterers also oversee decorations, such as table settings and lighting. Catering companies will as such, execute the client’s envisioned decoration theme or color scheme. Aesthetically-pleasing (and good-tasting) food alone can appeal to the senses, but caterers must keep in mind the decor and ambiance needed to make an event successful. Catering is usually sold on a per-person basis, meaning that there is a flat price for each additional person. Caterers need to keep the budget in mind to make a profit.

As many others in the food service industry, caterers and their staff work long hours. It is not uncommon for them to work holidays or 7 days a week during some seasons. Although the event location may be luxe, catering staff often work in small quarters with potentially hazardous hot stoves & ovens. Pace is rapid and hectic, so caterers and their staff must be able to communicate clearly and effectively.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

A growing number of those in the catering industry complete training programs through independent cooking schools, professional culinary institutes, 2- or 4-year college degree programs in hospitality or culinary arts. However, experience and an ability to both create and execute food preparation are most common qualities for advancement.

BY THE NUMBERS

Employment in the catering industry is expected to increase by 11 percent by 2016.

NATURE OF THE WORK

Hospitality managers perform hotel and other tourism establishment operations, including safety and security measures, repair and maintenance, and personnel organization.

They also can set room rates, allocate funds to departments, and ensure that standards for guest service, decor, housekeeping, food quality are met. Some lodging managers work in financial management, monitoring room sales and reservations, overseeing accounting matters, projecting occupancy levels, and deciding when to offer special rates.

Because hotels are open 24/7, night and weekend, and on-call work is common. Hospitality managers need to keep in mind the stress of dealing with disgruntled guests, check-in and check-out procedures, and managing conferences.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Most large, full-service hotel chains usually hire people who have a bachelor’s degree in business, hotel, or hospitality management for management trainee positions; however, a liberal arts degree coupled with experience in the hospitality field may be sufficient. At hotels with fewer luxury services, employers look for an associate degree or certificate in hotel, restaurant, or hospitality management along with experience.

More than 800 community colleges and universities offer programs in hotel, restaurant, or hospitality management leading to an associate, bachelor’s, or graduate degree. Technical institutes and other academic institutions also offer courses leading to diplomas or certificates in hospitality management.

If you are a student, you should expect courses in hotel administration, accounting, economics, marketing, housekeeping, computer training, food service management and catering, and even engineering.

Those seeking employment without a degree but demonstrate potential and experience may be able to participate in management training programs often sponsored by major hotel chains. From there, one can at most expect an entry-level position and work up depending on job performance.

BY THE NUMBERS

People with a college degree in hotel or hospitality management are expected to have the best opportunities at upscale and luxury hotels. Employment in the hospitality industry is expected to grow 12 percent from 2006 to 2016. Of course, the industry is contingent on business, domestic and foreign tourism.

Median annual earnings of hospitality practitioners were $42,320 in 2006.

To pursue a hospitality management program in your area, check out My Colleges and Careers for more information!

NATURE OF THE WORK

From Ambulatory care to Urology, there is something under the umbrella of nursing that could be right for you. Registered nurses (RNs) tasks include everything from recording patients’ medical histories and symptoms, educating patients on various medical conditions, providing support to patients’ family member, operating medical machinery, or administering medications.

RNs can specialize in various areas of patient care, like operating room nurses who assist surgeons, or according to specific health conditions, like diabetes management nurses. Other RNs specialize working with one or more organs or body systems (like dermatology nurses), or with a specific population demographic (like pediatric nurses who work with children).

Some RNs combine specialties. For example, a ‘pediatric oncology‘ nurse deals with children who have cancer.

Most RNs work as staff nurses as members of a team providing critical health care. Some RNs choose to become advanced practice nurses, who work independently or in collaboration with physicians. Examples include nurse anesthetists (who provide anesthesia and related care before and after surgical or other procedures) or nurse practitioners (who serve as primary and specialty care providers to patients).

Some nursing careers are limited in direct patient care yet still require an RN license. Some examples include forensics nurses (who participate in the scientific investigation of treatments), nurse administrators, (who supervise medical staff and maintain inventory), or nurse educators (who develop and deliver educational programs and curricula).

Some nurses move into the business management side of health care. In management, nurses can advance from assistant unit manger or head nurse to more senior-level administrative, which more often require a further graduate or advanced degree in nursing or health services administration.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

The three major educational paths to registered nursing are a bachelor’s of science degree (BSN), an associate degree (ADN), and a diploma from an approved nursing program. Nurses most commonly enter the occupation by completing an associate degree or bachelor’s degree program. Prospective nurses then must complete a national licensing examination in order to obtain a nursing license. Further training or education can qualify nurses to work in specialty areas, and improve advancement opportunities.

Advanced practice nursing specialties require at least a master’s degree. Most programs require a BSN for admission and involve 2 years of full-time study. Furthermore, some graduate programs require at least 1 to 2 years of clinical experience as an RN for admission.

All nursing education programs include classroom instruction and supervised clinical experience in hospitals and other health care facilities. Prospective students can expect to take courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, nutrition, psychology and nursing. Supervised clinical experience is provided in hospital departments such as pediatrics, psychiatry, maternity, and surgery.

Licensure and Certification: Upon graduating from an approved nursing program, students must pass a national licensing examination, known as the NCLEX-RN, in order to obtain a nursing license. Nurses may be licensed in more than one State, either by examination or by the endorsement of a license issued by another State. The Nurse Licensure Compact Agreement allows a nurse who is licensed and permanently resides in one of the member States to practice in the other member States without obtaining additional licensure. In 2006, 20 states were members of the Compact, while 2 more were pending membership.

All States require periodic license renewal. Foreign-educated and foreign-born nurses wishing to work in the United States must obtain a work visa in addition to passing the above stated certifications.

BY THE NUMBERS

• Registered nurses constitute the largest health care occupation, with 2.5 million jobs held in 2006.
• About 59 percent of jobs are in hospitals.

JOB OUTLOOK

Overall job opportunities for registered nurses are expected to be excellent, growing by 23 percent and generating 587,000 new jobs from 2006 to 2016: among the largest number of new jobs for any occupation.

SHOW ME THE MONEY

Median annual earnings of registered nurses were $57,280 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $47,710 and $69,850. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $40,250, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $83,440.

Criminal justice is a hot career right now and there are actually many careers besides a police officer available in this exciting field. Sure the cops can catch bad guys, but someone has to keep track of them afterwards. My Colleges and Careers would like to introduce you to a very important person in the San Diego Sheriff’s Department: Fred Hunting.

Fun Fact: Fred was once on the TV show Suddenly Susan!

MC&C: So what is your job title exactly?

FH: Sheriff’s licensing and registration interviewer.

MC&C: What do you do on a day to day basis?

FH: Interview and process drug and sex offenders into the State Registration System.  I also interview and process members ofthe public through the licensing process for any of 32 different licenses (eg: State Concealed Weapons Permits, Taxi, Massage, etc.)

MC&C: How did you get into this career?

FH: I worked in marketing for Universal Studios Recreation in L.A. and when I moved to San Diego five years ago, I couldn’t find anything comparable.  So I decided to think out of the box a bit and randomly ended up looking into law enforcement.

MC&C: Was there some type of training you had to do or any certification?

FH: When I was first hired I attended a post certified course related to emergency dispatch and 911.  I worked in this area for my first year and then transferred to licensing and registration and learned the ropes of this division through on the job training.

MC&C: What is the most interesting thing about your job?

FH: The variety and the unexpected.  In our lobby there are wealthy people applying for Concealed Weapons Permits or Business Establishment Licenses.  There are also immigrant taxi drivers from all parts of the world.  And, whether they know it or not, these people are sitting side by side with sex or drug offenders who have just been released from jail or prison.  It is an incredibly crazy mix of people to deal with all day and it is never boring.

MC&C: Can you think of any awesome stories or crazy anecdotes from your career?

FH: Yes, but unfortunately, I can’t tell any of them — though there is a ton of interesting stuff!  We have to maintain confidentiality of all the clients we serve and even anecdotal stories can’t  be shared in a public forum.

MC&C: Are you ever scared of the people you have to supervise?

FH: There are armed sworn officers just an emergency button away at all times and even threatening individuals are aware of this fact and know that they are in a Sheriff’s building.  I have never felt unsafe.

MC&C: What types of people do best in Criminal Justice fields similar to yours?

FH: People who can work with all types of individuals without judgment and those that have the ability to maintain confidentiality.

MC&C: What do you dislike about your job?

FH: Honestly there isn’t anything about it that I dislike.  I enjoy it and actually like being at work.

MC&C: What levels of advancement are available within your field?

FH: Supervision and management of the registration process, and also general administration.  For the licensing portion it, there is a licensing specialist path which involved in-the-field inspections of licensed establishments.

Thanks Fred! For more information about a career in the criminal justice field please visit My Colleges and Careers.

They surveyed 830 randomly selected cops using The Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire Scale to get to the bottom of things.

• The majority of those surveyed categorized themselves as a “Typical Cop” with qualities like self-discipline, social boldness, extroverted and emotionally tough.
• Traffic officers and deputies shared many characteristics such as high energy, dominance, independence, spontaneity, socially flexible and free from anxiety-related behaviors.
• Previous research has used the MMPI as a test to determine psychological characteristics of police officers, and it was suggested that the MMPI was the most commonly used psychological test of law enforcement officials and that research on psychological assessment of police officers is so mixed that it may even be questionable to advance generalizations about possible discriminating characteristics.
• A similar study found a wide variety of behaviors between police officers from different departments. The interpersonal skills of community college law enforcement officials were rated higher than major university and inner-city police officers.
• Police officers as a group tend be more homogenous than other career groups. They tend to be cheerful and outgoing with a strong interest in practical matters.
• Female participants were also found to be more likely to present a good impression of themselves, to be less depressed, to be more psychologically mature, more assertive and more aware of the needs of others as compared to the normative population data.

Does this list sound like a comprehensive rundown of you or someone you know? It may be time for a Criminal Justice career!

New York Fashion Week starts in early September, completing the “Big Three” of fashion weeks for bastion cities.

The video below showcases the highlights of Milan…where fashion rookies and legends alike dream and prepare for all year.

If you are in fashion design, you eat, drink, and breathe this stuff…

Do you find satisfaction from the precision required to pull a splinter out of a friend’s toe, enjoy cleaning and bandaging a roommate’s cut finger?

Does the thought of medical school sound like financial (and social) suicide?

Then perhaps you should look into a medical assisting job!

WHAT IS MEDICAL ASSISTING?

Medical assistants perform a range of administrative and clinical tasks in offices of physicians, podiatrists, chiropractors, and other health practitioners. Unlike Physician assistants (who can examine, diagnose, and treat patients with physician supervision), medical assistant duties vary from office to office.

AREAS OF MEDICAL ASSISTING

Administrative tasks of medical assistants can take on many forms, from updating patients’ medical records to scheduling hospital admissions to filling out insurance forms. For clinical medical assistants, responsibilities vary by State law, but usually consist of taking medical histories, recording vital signs, explaining treatment procedures to patients and preparing them for examinations, and assisting physicians during examinations. As a medical assistant, you might also perform basic laboratory tests on the premises, teach patients about medications or special diets, authorize drug refills to a pharmacy, draw blood, prepare patients for x-rays, and/or remove sutures.

PERKS

Since there is currently a regular demand, medical assistants can rely on stable hours and well-lit, clean environments. Most full-time medical assistants work a regular 40-hour week. Some may elect to work part-time, evenings, or weekends. Recession, who?

THE BACON YOU’LL BRING HOME

Depending on experience, skill level, and location, earnings of medical assistants vary. Below are the median annual earnings in the most popular locations of medical assisting (May 2006 data):

(Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

THINGS TO THINK ABOUT

Do you get woozy at the sight of blood? If not, keep reading.

MEDICAL ASSISTANT EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Most medical assistants complete 1-year or 2-year programs, and most do on-the-job training after that. Postsecondary medical assisting programs lasting 1 year result in a certificate or diploma, 2 years results in an associate degree. One can expect medical assisting courses to cover everything from anatomy and medical terminology to accounting and insurance processing. Students learn laboratory techniques, diagnostic procedures, pharmaceutical principles, medication administration, and first aid. Accredited medical assisting programs often include an internship that provides practical experience in real-world settings.

Some states even allow medical assistants to perform more advanced procedures, such as giving injections, after passing a test or taking a course. There are some programs that are offered online.

TYPICAL PERSONALITY TRAITS OF MEDICAL ASSISTANTS

Medical assistants deal with patients, therefore, they must be presentable, pleasant, be able to put patients at ease, follow physician instructions, and multi-task well. Also, blabbermouths need not apply, or at least be aware: patient confidentiality is a huge liability.

For all intensive purposes, job outlook in medical assisting is excellent, a workforce expected to grow 35% by 2016!

For more information visit www.mycollegesandcareers.com to get more information.

I decided to write a quick post about some reasons that people decide not to continue their education by earning a degree. I wanted to list some of those reasons and approach each reason with a resolution to remove any excuse not to go to college. I know excuse is a hard word and often times the excuses are legitimate excuses and noble reasons for not going, but many people with these excuses have a desire to earn college degrees. I’ve broken it into two sections; “Why they don’t…” and “Why they should…”.

Why they don’t…

Money

One of the main reasons that many people do not go to college or continue their education is money. A majority of people do not have the luxury of having their parents pay for their schooling. Many people do not make enough money to pay for their own schooling. Many people have made bad money management decisions in the past that now prevent them from being able to afford to invest in their education.

Other Obligations

Other obligations that people have are their children, debt, their jobs, etc. Maybe you can think of more obligations. It’s important for people to understand what types of obligations may hinder their ability to finish their degrees. Many people live beyond their means and this often times will create a ever-growing mount of debt that will hinder not only their education, but many other opportunities they might have in their life.

Time

Often times the schedules of school classes that are offered do not fit in the schedule of a persons work schedule or other obligated activities they have. Often times people are just plain too busy for school. They have too many other things going on. Priorities may be a bit mixed up.

Not the “College Type”

“I’m not the college type” to me means that someone thinks they are too dumb for college. This excuse is most likely a cover up for a fear or for a lack of confidence in ones self. High school is a unique situation. Many of us do not have the maturity level to understand the importance of our time there and often times our grades reflect it. High school grades do not necessarily identify your level of intelligence. Everyone should understand that they are the college type.

Not Necessary

Many people do not feel a degree is worth it and necessary for them. They may be correct in certain situations but in an educated world this idea may need to be examined a bit deeper on their part. Just because your father or uncle or whoever doesn’t have their degree, that doesn’t mean you can go without one. I would consider talking to those people without degrees that are successful and get their perspective on that question. Some of their regrets may involve not completing school or getting a degree.

Why they should…

Money

There are many resources out there to help you get the money you need for college. An education is one of the few justifiable investments that one has in their life. It requires some major consideration and thought, but it pays back in full. There are college education scholarships and grants that people may qualify for that can help pay for their tuition. I know that parents can often times qualify for education grants just because they have children. Local community colleges can often times soften the expense by offering more inexpensive schooling. Community colleges are great places to work on your general courses then you can often times transfer your credits to another university or college.

The average income of a high school graduate is $28,700 as compared to the average income of a college graduate is $53,800. In a lifetime of work a college graduate makes a lot more money on average throughout their life. If someone is patient enough to invest in their education they will be rewarded on the back-end and see their education continue to pay dividends throughout their lives.

Time

Now a days time should not be an excuse for anyone. Most colleges offer online classes and entire online degrees that often times allow you to work at your own pace in order to complete you online college degree. A general degree in any subject will open up more opportunities in your career. I highly recommend taking advantage of the online education opportunities that there are.

Career Freedom and Flexibility

In an economy that is very unstable, non-college graduates may find themselves trained into a specialized career whose industry itself is unstable? What good is all that knowledge when you lose that job and work becomes even more limited than before? Continually educating yourself is very important with our economy the way it is and having that college degree often times creates more flexibility and freedom in what industries and opportunities you can take advantage of. Job security is a personal responsibility. The only way to create job security now a days is to broaden your toolset of skills so that you can be ready for any situation, college will help you do that.

Open Up More Career Opportunities

Not only can a college degree create more freedom and flexibility for your career, but it also opens up more opportunities for higher paid positions. Many companies do not allow anyone without a degree to hold a management position. Most careers pay you more as you take on more responsibilities. A college degree can really create a management opportunity and higher salary for you if that is what you are looking for.

Set an Example

In a world where people seek heros and examples, you want to make sure that you set a proper example for those who look up to you. When people have higher goals for themselves they often times value themselves and their time higher than they would otherwise. The more educated our society becomes the more able we can resolve problems we have and the less ignorant the general population becomes. Set an example for your kids, your neighbors, your parents.

Schedule and Money

The root of most all of these excuses has to do with money and time. If we can learn to manage both our money and our time, we will open up many more opportunities for ourselves and for our children. Take responsibility now so that you’re in a better place in the future. Spend your time doing things that will make you better. Invest your money in things that will help increase your personal value.

Online Distractions

I don’t know if you’re like me, but I dream of a job that give me flexibility of time and location. I find myself searching through the employment ads of Craigslist.org or our local big classifieds site on KSL.com for legitimate jobs that allow for me to stay employed at home. Most are the “business opportunities” and are scams with companies trying to take advantage of the dreamers like myself. Truth be known, I don’t know if I could handle a work at home job right now in my life. I have a three year old and a one year old at home, and a list of honey do’s that keeps growing from my wife. I find coming to an office is a break at this point in my life, but I know many people may be ready for a work from home career.

That got me thinking and wanting to help others thinking about a work from home career or even thinking about getting their online degree. Those students who are able to develop the discipline to go to school, graduate, and get their online degrees are much further ahead in their modern day work ethics. There are so many distractions at our fingertips now a days that you really have to have a plan of attack to stay focused on tasks and to do what needs to be done. I thought I would try and put together a list of things that have distracted me when working from home and/or studying from home, and actions to overcome the distractions.

Online Degree at Home

Distractions and Actions

• Television
• Music
• Pajamas
• Empty Stomach
• Instant Messenger
• Unnecessary Programs
• Schedule
• People/Family
• Internet
• Computers and Software

Television

If you have a television in your office or study, remove it from your office or study or at the least, TURN IT OFF! If you are a YouTube addict, turn off YouTube. You can even block it using OpenDNS.com or other website blocking services. This can help you to overcome your YouTube addiction.

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Music

Have you ever found yourself jumping up out of your office chair and playing air guitar and taking the lead on the microphone, right in the middle of something very important that needs to be done? Well that’s kind of distracting isn’t it? If your music is distracting you, then you should do something about it. Change what you are listening to, turn it down, or turn it off. Music during work and during studying is not meant for entertainment, it should support your mind in processing information.

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Pajamas

When working at home it can be easy to just work in your underwear and not completely commit yourself to the day. I alway recommend taking a shower and getting ready just like you were heading into an office or up to school. This will help you mentally feel ready for the day and feel like you have already done so much. You should always be ready for any situation and respect yourself, your family, and/or your roommates with good hygiene.

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Food is Distracting

Empty Stomach

An empty stomach can have a distracting effect. Make sure to feed yourself. You are less likely to get up and snack if you fill your stomach first. I know I often times find myself getting up and snacking all day long. Get what you need and bring it to your office. Schedule breaks for snacks, but treat them like mandatory 15 minute breaks every 3 hours or so. Don’t make them every 10 minutes.

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Instant Messenger

More recently I’ve tried to create a separate Instant Messenger account for work. This has prevented a lot of BS conversation. I know I start a lot of unnecessary conversation over IM. If you get enough friends, the IM conversations never end. Don’t abandon IM altogether, but turn it off when working or studying. Instant Messengers can be a great way to network, but there should be a reason that they’re on. Same can apply to Twitter. This applies to text messaging too. Turn off your phone if it’s too big of a temptation and becomes too big of a problem.

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Unnecessary Programs

I’m sure most of you have plenty of different programs from graphic design to Twitter programs. You should eliminate any distractions that are caused by idle programs. If you need a program you can always reopen it, but don’t leave it sitting idle, shut it down. This will also improve your computer performance by not consuming computer resources.

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Create a Schedule

Schedule

Goals require game plans. Your work day or education should have some type of a schedule. Just because your schedule can be flexible doesn’t mean you just do things whenever. You should create a set schedule for working or for studying and doing homework. The flexibility should only be used when it has to be used. Remember that when you take some time out of your schedule you have to put it back in. Flexibility just means that things that are usually done at a specific time can be pushed off to another time. You need to make up any lost time without disturbing the rest of your schedule. This is often times the most important element when it comes to working at home or doing school from home.

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People/Family

When working or schooling from home, boundaries need to be set with your family, friends, and/or roommates. They need to respect your time so you can keep your job and/or get your education. It is much easier for them to respect your time if it is scheduled out. When they don’t know the next time you are going to be available, then it’s easy for them to justify disturbing you. That’s why a consistent schedule is so important. An office with a door and a lock never hurt at all either. It’s nice to create a work/study space. Heck maybe even get yourself one of those “OPEN” signs or some sign that helps to illustrate to people that you do not want to be disturbed. You can teach your kids to understand the sign and to leave mommy or daddy alone when the sign is on.

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Internet is Distracting

Internet

The internet can be a distraction in a bunch of different ways. First of all the obvious, don’t look at stuff that is unrelated to your goals and tasks for the day. I think the internet is the leading cause of ADD now a days. It’s way too distracting and easy to lose your bearings for the day. Second thing that can be distracting is the speed of the internet. You have committed to work or school from home, invest in a decent internet connection. Find something that is quick and reliable. You should be able to write it off on your taxes so you might as well get the good stuff. Sometimes schools and employers will help pay for the connection.

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Computers and Software

OK, the last one is the one you’ve all been waiting for. If your computer sucks and is slow, get one that will help you be more productive. A computer that just works and requires less maintenance. This is a loaded discussion. My two cents is to get yourself a Mac. Sometimes your employer or even your major at school will have required programs you have to use and may require a Windows machine or vice versa. Make sure to ask the right questions to your school or employer before getting a new computer. You may also find that there may be some software that will help you be more productive. Identify the things that you will be doing with the computer and get some programs that will help you be more productive. Again this should be a write off. When purchasing your computer and programs, ask about a student discount, most students get very steep discounts on software and computers.

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Conclusion

Working from home or getting your online degree from home can be a difficult thing to do even though it seems much easier. It requires some organization and planning to make sure that your employer and schooling gets the necessary time and respect. You can apply these suggestions as a full time or part time employee. You can apply these suggestions as a full time or part time student earning their online degree or getting their online training. Make sure to organize what works best for you and respect yourself by executing what you have organized. Stay focused and good luck. Let us know if you think of other things that will help our readers by leaving a comment with your suggestions below.

Celebrity Jobs

Family

• Nanny/Manny ( nanny training )
  Celebrity Nanny Quiz

Education

• Private Tutors/Teachers ( teaching degree )
  Interview with Andrea Dana – celebrity private tutor

Nutrition/Health

• Dietitians and Nutritionist ( dietitian and/or nutritionist education )
  Celebrity Dietitian Ashley Koff
• Personal Chef ( culinary arts degree )
  Celebrity Chef, Jerome Brown
• Personal Trainer ( personal training certification )
  Personal Trainer Gunnar Peterson

Image

• Hair Stylist ( beauty school )
  Ken Paves – Hair Stylist to the Stars
• Makeup Artist ( professional makeup courses )
  Celebrity Makeup Artist Sam Fine
• Personal Stylist ( fashion design degree )
  Celebrity Designer Rachel Zoe on Twitter – Clients

Business

• Personal Assistant ( business management degree )
  When Their Wish Is Your Command; Celebrity Assistants Keep the Stars Twinkling
• Agent ( marketing degree )
  Talent Agents

Protection

• Body Guards ( criminal justice training )
  Lance Armstrong’s Tour de France Bodyguard
• Security Guards ( criminal justice degree )
  Hired Guns: Armed Guards Latest Celeb Accessory

Property

• Groundskeepers
  Groundskeeper Willie
• Housekeepers

Legal

• Lawyers ( law degree )
  Gloria Allred – Celebrity Lawyer

Medical

• Personal Physician ( medical schooling )
  Dr. Drew – Addiction Medicine Specialist

Follow Up

Remember when you are employed by a celebrity of any status be grateful. There are thousands of people that would love the experience and opportunity. Also remember that your job is all about them. You may find your self so and so’s bodyguard or nanny. What did you think people would call you. Make sure it’s what you want to do. There is much respect in many of the same professions that celebrities require help in. You can make a good living doing those things not working for a celebrity.

When I started doing some of my research I came across a great article that talked about “Job Security in the New Millenium”. Jobs are much different or are not looked at the same as people use to look at jobs. My father in-law and mother in-law both retired from General Motors. That was the ideal job back in the day. Find a big company that your can work for your whole life and retire. Well things have changed.

Job Security is much more than a single job that you are trained to do. Job security is the ability to make yourself so valuable that your current employer won’t want to get rid of you, but if they have to you will easily find another job to replace that one. Your employers will recommend you when you ask them to.

Why Job Security is Important

Did I really need that title for this section. It is very obvious. In a world as we have today you should always be concerned about job security, especially if you own a house and have a family to support. Some of the things to be concerned about.

1. Company requires downsizing because the business is not making enough to pay all their bills. This is a market based variable so the company does not always have control of this factor.
2. Corporate buyouts. When a company is bought out they often times will evaluate every position and the need for each position. Is your job necessary?
3. Vendor buyouts. If your company sells a product and your vendors start reorganizing and buying each other this can often time trickle down to your company creating the need to restructure itself and evaluate new strategies. Are you part of the new strategies?
4. Misc. There are tons of other reasons that are specific to each company that can often times lead to downsizing. Be aware of these within the company you work for.

Increasing Your Value – Becoming the “Go To”

This section is completely open to modifications. If you have any other suggestions that aren’t listed, please leave some comments and explain your suggestions.

First thing is first, you need to understand your value to the company. What do you bring to the table that no one else does? Why would your boss opt to keep you over the guy in the cubicle next to you? As you understand your own skillset and what you bring to the company you gain more confidence as you work and your present yourself in a positive way. You become they go to employee.

Some things you can do to create make yourself a “go to” employee are:

1. Always be willing to learn. If you can present yourself as a problem solver and that you have not become the old dog that will not learn new tricks, you immediately increase your value. You must deliver though. People that are willing to learn will often times open up new opportunities for themselves.
2. Stand out. If you participate in the meetings and seem involved in the company and that you are a part of the company they will see your value to the company. This can be looked at as a brown noser but the people calling your a brown noser are going to be some of the first employees to go most likely.
3. Continue your education. You can always be learning new things that are not even a part of your current position. This may involve enrolling in online certificate training, completing your online bachelors or masters degree, or just even going through online tutorials.
4. Be trustworthy. This brings me back to the scout oath of being trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, blah blah blah. If you can be trusted along with all of the other things mentioned, your employer will trust you with new positions and new opportunities and feel you are a valuable asset to the company.
5. Be positive. Always be positive. A positive attitude will rub off as much as a negative attitude does. Create a positive environment and try to enjoy your job and others will talk about you and want to work with you. Employers are always looking for employees that play nice with one another and work well in team environments. When you are positive you present yourself very well.
6. Show gratitude. People love hearing thank you. It makes them feel valued and also that what they do matters to you. When you present yourself as a grateful employee you often times will find yourself respecting your position and the time that you work in that position. You will find yourself working more effectively because you will make better use of your time.
7. Make suggestions. Anyone that can help the company improve their process will find themselves rewarded for their contributions. If they are not, then I would reevaluate your job and position. Suggest things that will make your job easier so you can perform better and look better.
8. Know your value. You need to know your value. If you don’t understand what you bring to the table then it will be hard for you to convince your employer that they should keep you.
9. Stand up for yourself. If you don’t stand up for yourself, you may not find anyone else standing up for you. When it’s time to lay off or downsize it’s everyone for themselves. Don’t talk negatively about others, but speak positively about yourself.
10. Give a crap. My grandpa always said, “You can’t pay someone to give a crap.” He used other words but you can imagine. It’s hard to find someone who truly cares about their position. They are a diamond in the rough. If you can get involved in your position and show that you truly do care about your position, your employer will see. If you do many of the above mentioned things, you will find that you give a crap about your position.

Understand that not every job is the perfect job and understand that you can always find another job if you have truly tried to increase your value as an employee.

Please leave your comments and suggestions below. I hope this has given some people some ideas that will help them feel more secure in their position and not so worried if they need to look for another position.