College, Career, Life » economy

New Book Helps Job-Seekers Crack the New Market

collegecareerlife — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 11:30:28 +0000

There’s no question that the world of work is changing. Secure jobs with great benefits are on the decline, while white-collar workers scramble for the good positions that remain. Cracking the New Job Market, by William Holland, offers seven rules for navigating today’s unstable market. The book offers practical advice, particularly in the area of resume creation, and clears up some misconceptions that may be holding job-seekers back.

Value creation is the central theme of the book. The job-seeker awarded the coveted position will not necessarily be the one with the most education or experience, but the applicant whose skills best match the job description. Simply putting your work history down on a resume isn’t enough. You have to connect your accomplishments with the needs of the hiring organization.

The book provides instruction on how to read a job ad and how to create a resume based on a specific ad. Resume and cover letter examples are provided, breaking down each section to demonstrate value-creation. Advice is tailored to entry-level, mid-career professionals, and executives. No matter your career level, an opportunity exists to demonstrate value to potential employers.

If you hate the idea of networking, as many of us do, you’ll be pleased to learn that face-to-face networking isn’t as important as it’s made out to be. It turns out that weak ties are just as effective as strong ties, and that an infinite number of weak ties can be found online. The Internet doesn’t have to be where desperate job-seekers go to send resumes into a black hole, it can actually be a very useful tool in your job search if leveraged correctly.

In the section on helicopter parenting (which Holland actually encourages), he discourages blind trust of colleges and points out that career center personnel “desperately need to upgrade their craft but have neither the resources nor the work experience beyond the university to do so.” According to Holland, parents realize that universities cost much more but deliver less. Colleges and universities capitalize on the career goals of students, but fail to give students to tools needed to find a good job. Holland’s honesty will be much appreciated, especially by recent graduates struggling to find work among a mountain of debt. This section is a must-read for parents of college students.

Cracking the New Job Market goes beyond traditional job search advice and offers specific rules about creating a resume and cover letter, networking, and interviewing. If you’d like a copy of the book, visit the book’s website or find it on Amazon.

R. William Holland, Ph.D., a veteran human resources executive, is founder and principal of R. William Holland Consulting, LLC, specializing in career management. He is also a senior vice president at BeamPines, a leadership development, assessment, and coaching firm. He lives in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Feed enhanced by Better Feed from Ozh

The Face of Recession: How to Handle Student Loans

collegecareerlife — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 06:15:37 +0000

It used to be that a college education practically ensured your chances of obtaining a well-paying career in your field of choice, usually right after graduation graduation. However, times have changed. More and more people are pursuing college degrees and, therefore, the competition is high. To make matters worse, college graduates face the tough realization of searching for employment during an economic recession – a task that, for many, may be as challenging as earning a college degree. If you’re one of the many thousands of people who took out student loans to pay for your higher education, then the reality of the job market could be enough to put you in a panic over paying back your student loans. Relax. There are things you can do to better your situation. Here are my tips for how to handle student loans after graduation:

Use your time wisely. Federal student loan programs allot you six months of time with which to get your financial affairs in order before you have to actually start making payments. Six months is not a lot of time – it will fly by – but it is enough time to put some careful planning into place. In addition to job-searching and planning a budget, you should also research repayment plans, debt consolidation and loan forgiveness options.

Repayment plans. The federal student aid program offers what is called the Income-Based Repayment Plan (IBR). If you qualify for the IBR, then your monthly payments will be calculated with your current income in mind, and they will be capped at an amount that is realistically within your budget. Visit the federal student aid website to see if you qualify.

Consolidation. If you have a number of loans, with varying interest rates, then it is probably a good idea to consolidate all of those loans into one lower interest rate loan. Just be sure to wait until your six month grace period is over before you consolidate, as consolidation automatically drops your grace period and instantly triggers your payment obligation.

Loan forgiveness. There are a number of ways you can get out of paying your student loans completely. This is called loan forgiveness. Volunteer organizations like Americorps and Peace Corps both offer loan forgiveness programs. As well, if you are entering into certain career fields, such as teaching, military, medical or legal, then you may also qualify for loan forgiveness.

As you can see, there is hope after college graduation. While it is true that you may not go straight from graduating to landing the career of your dreams, it is also true that there are ways to manage the task of paying back your student loan bill without crumbling under the pressure. Follow these tips to maintain your financial well-being once you step off the campus and into the job market.

About the Author: Patty Kleen is a full-time writer with a passion for personal finance and education. She writes about credit repair, obtaining secure bad credit loans, and money saving tips for professionals and students looking to build better financial futures.

No Related Posts

Feed enhanced by Better Feed from Ozh

Frustrations of Today's Job Search

collegecareerlife — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 19:55:33 +0000

Unemployment remains high, despite improving economic conditions and increased corporate profits. Job seekers are experiencing as much frustration as ever. Employers are dragging their feet in the hiring process, posting bogus ads or leaving ads up after jobs are filled, and discriminating against candidates for a variety of reasons. Below, the most common complaints from today’s job seekers and some tips for overcoming or preventing job search frustration:

No Follow-Up

With so many applicants for each position, a followup isn’t possible for each application. However, failing to followup after an interview is inexcusable. Candidates that have spent time and effort interviewing deserve a timely followup.

Too Many Hoops

Never-ending applications, assessments, texts, and multiple rounds of interviews are frustratingly common experiences for today’s job-seekers. A bad hiring decision can be costly for an organization, but over-thinking a decision doesn’t guarantee the best pick. Plus, employers are often turning off the best candidates.

Unrealistic Expectations

Candidate must have ten years experience in abc software, five years of experience with xyz software, speak Japanese, and possess a Ph.D. in plant pathology. MBA strongly preferred but not required. If this sounds familiar, you’ve probably searched for a job recently. These job listings make you wonder- does the perfect candidate for this job even exist?

Discrimination Against Unemployed

Reports of overt discrimination against the unemployed have made news recently. Some employers have been so bold (and stupid) as to put employment as a qualification in their ads. For other employers, discrimination is less obvious but very real. The long-term unemployed often have poor credit and large resume gaps, giving employed candidates a huge edge.

Solutions for the Frustrated Job-Seeker

Try smaller companies because small companies usually hire only when they really need someone. They won’t waste time with unnecessary procedures.
Get your foot in the door with an internship. Some companies offer jobs to a high percentage of former interns. Interning will not only help you gain experience, it can also prevent a long and frustrating job search.
If you’re an experienced candidate, temping is an alternative to an internship and can reduce resume gaps while providing networking opportunities. Do well in your temporary position and you may be offered a permanent job.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

© Andrea for College, Career, Life, 2010. | Permalink | No comment | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: employment, job search

Feed enhanced by Better Feed from Ozh

Advice on Finding a Job After College

collegecareerlife — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 11:00:39 +0000

When the economy is bad, employers are hesitant to invest in inexperienced applicants, and older workers delay retirement. Campus recruiting has also dried up, eliminating a way for graduates to find real entry-level jobs. These factors create significant barriers for new graduates. But it’s not all bad news. Hiring of 2010 graduates is greater than hiring for 2009 graduates, and SimplyHired’s blog reports increased opportunities in a variety of industries.

I found a job in a bad economy after changing careers. If I can do it, so can you. Some advice from someone who has actually been there:

Keep looking

The number one key to finding a job is to just keep looking, even when you think you’ve exhausted all possibilities or even if you’re expecting an offer. A few years ago, a large percentage of graduates had a job upon graduation. The realities have changed and you’ll need to adjust your expectations. A difficult job search is not a reflection on you, but on circumstances beyond your control. Many talented people are out of work now, so don’t doubt your abilities.

Take a break

Some people say that job searching is like a job, but it really isn’t. During a job, you get paid to work. In a job search, you don’t get paid and may even spend your own financial resources on interview clothes or travel expenses. It’s fine to take a break from looking for a few days. Constantly searching without any responses can lead to depression, which will reduce your motivation. When you start to feel discouraged, stop and do something fun.

Stay busy

Not only will keeping active help ward off depression, but you can also increase your chances of finding a job. I briefly did temporary work in an unrelated field, but still gained skills that I can use throughout my career. Temping also exposes you to a variety of workplace environments, which helps you identify your preferences and develop more specific career goals. You can also volunteer, obtain certifications, or get an internship. Potential employers will admire your motivation and work ethic.

Don’t be picky

Even as a recent graduate, you’ll need to have standards. You probably have loans to pay off and you don’t want to take such a low salary that it will set you up for lower salaries throughout your career. However, being too picky can hurt your chances of finding a job. Many companies don’t have the money to pay the same entry-level salaries they did several years ago. It’s not fair that because of your graduation year you’ll start out with less money (and probably higher student loan debt) but a lower salary than you expected is better than none at all. Visit PayScale.com to find out what you’re worth, based on your specific qualifications and company characteristics. Also, be open to taking a job in a less-desirable location or at a company you haven’t considered.

Focus on local positions

I got a much higher rate of response from local employers, or employers in nearby cities (within 50 miles of my address). Many companies aren’t paying relocation expenses of non-local candidates and many limit the applicants they consider to local candidates. This doesn’t mean you should ignore jobs in other locations, but spend at least half of your job search time applying to local jobs. When applying to non-local jobs, use the address of a relative on your resume if it’s closer to the job to which you are applying.

Diversify your search

I got my first job through an online job board, but I also searched local newspapers, sent out resumes cold to nearby employers, and contacted recruiters. Don’t rely on just one (or two) job search methods. If you don’t want to apply to a position through an online job board, try to find the hiring manager’s email or apply directly through the company’s career site. Aggregator sites like Indeed and SimplyHired are especially helpful because you don’t have to visit individual job boards or company websites.

Bypass HR

When applying to large companies, resumes are often filtered significantly by computers or by human resources staff. At smaller companies, hiring decisions are usually made by the department that has an opening. For larger companies, you can search for a department manager’s contact information on LinkedIn and other professional sites. Your goal should be to get your resume into the hands of a professional in your industry.

Tell people you’re looking

As you’ve probably heard, most jobs are never advertised. The more people you tell about your job search, the greater your chances of hearing about potential openings. Some people might even be nice enough to put in a good word for you at their company. Recommendations from insiders prove much more influential than outside references. If you don’t like networking, just casually mention that you’re looking for a job instead of asking directly. This gives people the opportunity to help without putting too much pressure on them.

There is no formula for finding a job. An offer may come when you least expect it, so don’t give up on your search. See the Online Resources page for websites where you can research employers, craft a good resume, and brush up on interview skills.

© Andrea for College, Career, Life, 2010. | Permalink | One comment | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: entry level, job search

Feed enhanced by Better Feed from Ozh

Five High Demand Jobs for the Future

collegecareerlife — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:59:47 +0000

A common concern when choosing a career is future growth and demand. Healthcare is generally the best field for security and growth, but jobs in other fields are also experiencing rapid growth. Ten high demand jobs based on industry, job prospects*, percent growth, and numerical growth:

Veterinary Technologists and Technicians

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for veterinary technologists and technicians is expected to grow 36 percent through 2018. The median annual wage for veterinary technologists and technicians was $28,900 in 2008. Completion of a two-year degree from a college program accredited by American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is required for working as a veterinary technician in the United States. Every state requires future veterinary technologists to pass a credentialing exam after coursework completion, although regulation varies from state to state. Careers for Animal Lovers

Pharmacists

Projected growth for pharmacists is 17 percent through 2018. To practice pharmacy, one must obtain a Pharm.D. degree and pass a series of licensing exams. Pharmacists earned a median annual wage of $106, 210 in 2008. Read Opportunities in Pharmacy Careers or visit the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy for more information.

Computer Systems Analysts

Responsibilities of computer systems analysts include determining user requirements, reviewing system capabilities, making software recommendations, and updating existing computer systems and programs. Projected employment growth for computer systems analysts is 20 percent through 2018 and the median annual wages were $75,500 in 2008. Top 100 Computer and Technical Careers

Computer Software Engineers

Employment for computer software engineers is projected to grow by 32 percent through 2018. The median annual wage of computer systems software engineers was $92, 420 in May 2008. For computer applications software engineers the median annual wage was $85,430. Making it Big in Software: Get the Job. Work the Org. Become Great.

Optometrists

An aging population contributes to increasing demand for optometrists. Employment for optometrists is expected to grow much faster than average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In order to become qualified to practice optometry in the United States, one must graduate from an accredited college of optometry and obtain a state license. There are currently 19 colleges of optometry in the United States, and admission is very competitive. Optometrists earned a median annual wage of $96,320 in May 2008. Visit the American Optometric Association website for more information about optometry careers and education.

Due to a variety of factors, there is no guarantee that demand will rise as expected for a given profession. Everyone should be prepared to adapt to technological advances and globalization, even those in careers with high growth projections. Although no one can predict the future with certainty, employment projections provide the best resource for assessing job growth and demand. 50 Best College Majors for a Secure Future

Sources:

The Occupational Outlook Handbook

*Job prospect categories as defined by the OOH. Only careers with very good or excellent opportunities were chosen for this list

Read about Five More High Demand Jobs for the Future.

© Andrea for College, Career, Life, 2010. | Permalink | No comment | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: bls, demand, growth, jobs, statistics

Feed enhanced by Better Feed from Ozh

Hiring Trends for 2010 College Graduates

collegecareerlife — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:55:22 +0000

Update: Latest hiring trends for the Class of 2010 (from MSNBC): Dim job outlook brightens for the class of 2010.

Summary:

5 % increase in hiring of 2010 graduates over 2009 graduates
most in-demand majors : accounting, business administration, computer science, engineering, and math
Survey shows only 40% of graduates have offers, compared to two-thirds of graduates in 2007

—————————————————————————————————————————————

Original Article:

College graduates faced a tough job market in 2009, but will 2010 graduates face similar challenges? Although layoffs have slowed down, unemployment is at a 26 year high and a recent survey conducted by Michigan State University’s Collegiate Employment Research Institute doesn’t offer a lot of hope to college seniors. The survey shows that hiring for 2010 graduates is predicted to decline by 2% from 2009.

According to MSU’s survey, large and medium-sized companies plan to decrease hiring, while smaller companies plan to hire more graduates. Statistics and environmental science are the most in-demand degrees, but one-third of employers would consider graduates with any degree. Regions with the most job growth are the South Central, Northwest, and Southwest.

Despite the negative survey results, many companies are thriving. A great example of growth in the technology industry is Intelius Screening Solutions, a leading provider of on-demand employment and drug screening solutions to thousands of businesses throughout North America. The company has experienced growth of 578% over the last five years and has added over 100 people to its workforce.

I spoke with Intelius Screening Solutions General Manager, Todd Owens, about hiring trends for 2010 graduates. Mr. Owens advises recent graduates to focus on growing industries such as healthcare, education, energy, and technology. He also suggests that graduates be open to relocation, since some areas are experiencing job growth. In addition, graduates should look at the Inc. 500 list of fastest-growing private companies for ideas on where to apply.

The greatest differentiator for businesses over the coming years will be customer service, says Mr. Owens. Sales, account management and customer service jobs are great choices for recent graduates with any degree. Young workers are ideal candidates for such positions because of their energy and enthusiasm. According to Mr. Owens, new graduates are a great investment for the future because they have a willingness to learn and to take on a variety of roles. He says that this is the best time to be entering the workforce because today’s young, eager, and educated graduates will be well-positioned for the next expansion.

So what should graduates do to improve their chances of finding employment? Surveys and experts indicate that graduates should focus on smaller companies. They should also be open to moving to regions where hiring is improving. Employers are looking for flexibility, so job-seekers need to demonstrate the ability to take on a variety of responsibilities. Read Getting from College to Career: 90 Things to Do Before You Join the Real World
for more advice for life after graduation.

© Andrea for College, Career, Life, 2009. | Permalink | 2 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: advice, business, economy, employment, jobsearch, trends

Feed enhanced by Better Feed from Ozh

Top Ten Most Flexible Degree Choices

collegecareerlife — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 10:42:18 +0000

The following guest post was contributed by Christine Howell who frequently writes about Accredited Online Degrees and college related topics for Online College Guru, an online college directory and comparison website.

Recent economic conditions have reinforced the importance of flexibility in the employment marketplace. Selecting a degree program that allows a wide range of employment opportunities is essential for new and returning students in order to maximize their chances of obtaining employment quickly. Here are the ten best options for students seeking to ensure their employability in the highly-competitive job market of today.

Business administration

This degree opens doors throughout the corporate world. Whether the emphasis is on accounting, finance, marketing, or management, a bachelor’s or master’s degree in business administration is the starting point for a wide range of careers that are always in demand. For those interested in working in the field of business, this is the most versatile degree to achieve that goal.

Engineering

For technically-minded students, engineering degrees offer a wide range of employment options. Architecture, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medicine, environmental science and many other fields of endeavor require the scientific background an engineering degree can afford.

Computer science

Computer science is closely related to the engineering field. Although many feel this degree has lost its luster in recent years, it still provides a large number of career choices to those holding a Bachelor of Science degree. Computer science graduates go on to serve as systems administrators, software engineers, network specialists, and in many other positions and career paths.

Mathematics

Considered the most practical and useful of all general science degrees, a strong mathematics background prepares one for jobs in actuarial science, business, education, and even law enforcement. The analytical skills derived from a four-year program in mathematics can be applied to nearly every field of endeavor.

English and other languages

Often unjustly maligned, a degree in English can provide opportunities for employment in a number of lucrative positions, including editing, journalism, public relations and advertising, and commercial writing. Expertise in foreign languages can allow students to obtain jobs in the government and public service field, as well as a number of educational and administrative opportunities only available to those who speak and write a second language.

Education

This may not seem a versatile selection at first; however, the variety of different disciplines covered under this one degree is immense. For any field of endeavor, there is a degreed professional to teach it; this makes education perhaps the most flexible of all degree programs.

Political science

For those interested in public service, a political science major offers the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue elected, appointed, or agency-level career paths. Political science degrees prepare students for jobs in government, law, budget planning, university administration, and many other fields that require a detailed knowledge of the inner workings of societal structures.

Psychology

Marketing, advertising, public relations, health care, and education careers are among the career options available to psychology majors. While advanced positions require advanced degrees, the knowledge of human nature and behavior allows students to step into a wide range of jobs with a reasonable certainty of success.

Graphic design

Artistically-minded students will find ample career opportunities after graduating with a graphic design degree. Most jobs are found in the advertising and commercial fields, but talented graphic designers can find work as animators, product design specialists, creative directors, and webpage designers.

Economics

An alternative to the business administration degree, economics degrees offer a different range of job opportunities. Many economists are employed by large corporations or government agencies; others work in the area of finance, statistics, or as legislative assistants to elected officials. In any field where financial predictions are useful and necessary, economists find themselves in high demand. An economics degree is also the perfect prerequisite to an advanced business law degree.

These ten degree programs will increase the chances for students to find work quickly in their chosen field after graduation. Opportunities are varied and plentiful in these fields and, while some are more lucrative than others, all offer the chance to excel in one’s chosen field of endeavor.

© Andrea for College, Career, Life, 2009. | Permalink | 3 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: academic, college, degree, education, employment, majors

Feed enhanced by Better Feed from Ozh

What Young People Should Learn from this Recession

collegecareerlife — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 21:52:17 +0000

Recent college graduates seem to have been dealt the worst luck of any graduates in history. It’s true that finding a job out of college will be a big challenge for most and I don’t want to minimize the burden that recent graduates are facing. However, you are lucky in that you can learn something from what many older workers are experiencing. A few things I’ve learned from this recession:

Never rely on an employer to take care of you. Of course most graduates will need to work for someone else to gain experience and pay back loans. But after you’ve gained experience, you should be prepared to work for yourself if necessary. This may mean consulting, freelancing, or starting a small business. If you do ever lose your job, you will have some money.

Be conservative with your money. Don’t buy more house than you can afford, save as much as you can, and live simply so that a layoff won’t be as devastating. When you’re working hard you feel entitled to splurge, but cutting back on some of the luxuries might not be as bad as you think.

Don’t take your job for granted. In the past, workers could count on life-time employment at a company (barring any major mistakes). Now, employees must work every day to justify their relevance. Don’t every get complacent, no matter how long you’ve worked at a company. Keep up with industry trends, take continuing education classes, and diversify your skills.

It’s easy to forget past recessions when the economy is good, but another one will occur eventually and you should be prepared. The news stories about laid-off workers are depressing, but they can serve as cautionary tales for young people that haven’t made the mistakes of older generations.

© Andrea for College, Career, Life, 2009. | Permalink | 3 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: economy, money, recession

Feed enhanced by Better Feed from Ozh

Job Numbers: What Really Matters

collegecareerlife — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 03:22:05 +0000

Job-related statistics can be misleading because there’s usually more to consider than a single number or percentage. Plenty of numbers related to employment can be found, but many factors aren’t obvious to most job-seekers. What matters – and what doesn’t- when it comes to employment statistics?

What doesn’t matter: job openings

What really matters: job openings vs. qualified applicants

Although the number of job openings is important, you should consider one other factor: how easy it is to become qualified. Despite a large number of openings, certain jobs may be hard to come by because so many people qualify for them. What you should look for is jobs that are in demand because of limiting factors such as a high level of education (including difficult “weed out” classes) and competitive training programs. Healthcare is a secure field not only because it is necessary even in a recession, but because most jobs in the field require certian training and/or certification.

What doesn’t matter: job board listings

What really matters: job board listings and recruitment

Most jobs aren’t advertised, so looking at job boards isn’t extremely helpful in assessing the demand for a given occupation. It is possible to find a job using these web-sites, but most jobs are filled through recruitment or connections. Some college programs have very high placement rates for graduates because of both the quality of the program and need for qualified employees in the field. Experienced professionals may receive offers through recruiters or directly from a potential employer. It’s better to talk with recruiters or professionals in your chosen industry to get a sense of job demand.

What doesn’t matter: demand

What really matters: locations and specialties with highest demand

Demand can be high for a given occupation, but you may still not find a job in your industry if you don’t live where the employers are located. Many industries, such as information technology, are geographically concentrated. Certain cities are much better for job seekers. Also, remember that you may not be able to get a job anywhere you want. For example, rural and inner-city schools are most in need of teachers, while new teachers may have trouble finding jobs at suburban schools.

Job statistics can be deceiving and hard to understand. You may need to look at what isn’t measured or beyond the numbers reported in order to get a better picture. To help with your research, visit the following links:

Top Entry-Level Employers 2009

America’s 25 Best Places to Move

© Andrea for College, Career, Life, 2009. | Permalink | 2 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: economy, education, jobsearch, statistics

Feed enhanced by Better Feed from Ozh

Trends in MBA Admissions Change with the Economy

collegecareerlife — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:29:13 +0000

The troubled economy has had an impact on almost everyone, and MBA applicants are no exception. Admissions trends are changing rapidly. Here are a few things that potential MBAs can expect from the current market:

Applications Are Up

Recessions almost always have an impact on grad school applications–particularly MBA program applications. When the economy gets tough, people tend to head back to school in hopes of securing a better degree. Business school provides a safe place for people to weather the financial storm. Everyone always hopes that by the time they earn their degree, the job market will be back on track and ready for new grads.

The Applicant Pool Is Different

Although MBA applicant pools do change from year to year, current pools are changing more rapidly than normal. Business schools are seeing more laid-off applicants than ever before, particularly from the finance sector. Applicants who are straight out of college are also on the rise. Some schools, such as the Johnson School at Cornell University, are reporting a 10 to 15 percent increase in domestic applicants. International applicants, on the other hand, have decreased due to the fact that many international students are having difficulty acquiring non-U.S student loans.

Competition Is More Severe

Changing applicant pools have led to stiffer competition than usual for MBA applicants. This is especially true for applicants who are applying to top-ranked programs. With more people interested in an MBA, business schools everywhere are realizing that they can be more selective than ever before. Individuals who bring less to the table (no professional experience, low GMAT scores, or less than satisfactory GPAs) are finding it difficult to compete with seasoned professionals who have worked in business for years and are still hungry for career success. This doesn’t mean that younger students do not have a chance–quite the contrary. Business schools around the country are actively courting younger students. In fact, the number of students admitted to MBA programs straight out of college has increased significantly in the last five years.

Admissions Committees Want Different Things

Every admissions committee is looking for something different in applicants. However, there are a few things that nearly every committee desires regardless of economic changes. The first is diversity. Business schools like to see cultural diversity in the applicant pool and among those who are accepted. The second thing that admissions committees like to see is good analytical skills. This can usually be demonstrated through a good GPA or high GMAT score. The final thing that every admissions committee admires is qualifications. Well-rounded students who can show that they are highly qualified through the use of essays, recommendation letters, test scores, and other aspects of the application are much more likely to gain acceptance than the average applicant.

Guest post from Karen Schweitzer, the About.com Guide to Business School. Karen also writes for OnlineDegreePrograms.org.

© Andrea for College, Career, Life, 2009. | Permalink | No comment | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: admissions, education, guest post, mba

Feed enhanced by Better Feed from Ozh

Private College Experience-Public College Price

collegecareerlife — Sat, 30 May 2009 13:00:09 +0000

Public universities offer a variety of extracurricular and academic options and are generally less costly than private colleges. However, private colleges don’t usually suffer from overcrowding like public universities and they allow for more interaction with professors. Fortunately, public universities offer some alternatives that provide the benefits of a private college without the cost.

Branch Campuses – Large public universities may have branch campuses to offset overcrowding on main campuses and to attract non-traditional students. I’ve attended classes at a branch campus of my university and preferred it to the main campus for several reasons: smaller classes, newer facilities and more mature students. The downside is that they may not offer as many courses as the main campus.

Honors Colleges – Most larger universities have established honors colleges which offer smaller classes and more interaction with professors. Honors colleges may have their own curricula and/or extra required projects. Admittance is usually based on ACT/SAT scores, high school GPA, and extracurricular activities.

Community Colleges – You may be able to avoid overcrowded classes by taking them at a community college. Certain courses at large universities tend to be very large, but they may be smaller at a junior college. Just be sure they will transfer to your university.

Summer/Intersession Courses - Summer and intersession classes tend to be smaller and campuses will be less crowded. Taking summer or intersession classes can also help lighten your course load in the regular semester.

Before you pay $30,000+ for the private college experience, look into these options at public colleges. You’ll get the benefits of both a large university and a smaller college without the huge tuition bill.

© Andrea for College, Career, Life, 2009. | Permalink | No comment | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: budget, college, finance, money

Feed enhanced by Better Feed from Ozh

How to Pay for School after Losing Your Job

collegecareerlife — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 22:03:36 +0000

The following is a guest post from Karen Schweitzer who writes about online education for OnlineColleges.net and serves as About.com’s Business School Guide.

If you are one of the many people who are considering going back to school after losing your job, you shouldn’t let a bad economy stand in your way. There are many different ways to come up with the money you need to pay for school.

1. Community Grants and Programs. The first place to start when you need money for school is your local community. The recent downturn has prompted many local governments and community organizations to establish special programs for unemployed individuals. Some of these programs provide career education; others provide grants to cover education costs.

2. State Aid. State programs or grants may also be available for students who need financial aid. You can learn more about potential programs by contacting your state’s education department or related agencies. If aid is available, you will most likely need to apply for it using state-supplied forms. Whatever you do, be sure to follow all of the instructions and apply as soon as possible. State aid is always limited and is usually available on a first come first serve basis.

3. Federal Grants. The federal government awards billions of dollars in grants to needy students every year. The most commonly used grant is the Federal Pell Grant, which provides need-based grants to low-income students. All grants, including the Pell Grant, can be used to cover tuition costs, books costs, and other fees.

4. Scholarships. Scholarships are also an excellent way to pay for your education. Like grants and state aid, scholarship money is free money. You will not have to pay it back after graduation. Scholarships are usually awarded through commercial organizations, professional associations, and individual benefactors. You can find scholarships through the many scholarship search engines on the web. Good engines to try include Scholarships.com and FastWeb.com.

5. Government Loans. Taking out a loan to pay for your education may not seem like the ideal scenario, but the investment will eventually pay off. Research has shown that a degree can increase salary potential and competitiveness in the job market. If you decide to get a loan, be sure to look at loans that are guaranteed and subsidized by the federal government. Good examples include Stafford Loans or Perkins Loans. These loans usually have low interest rates and deferred payment options.

6. Private Loans. Taking out a private student loan may also be an option worth considering. Most banks have some sort of student loan program that can be used to cover the cost of tuition and other expenses. If you do decide to get a loan from a private bank, be sure to compare interest rates and loan terms before making a final decision. Rates and repayment options can vary from bank to bank.

7. Social Finance Companies. Traditional banks aren’t the only institutions you can turn to when you need money for school. There are companies out there who are dedicated to matching people who need money with people who have money. Commonly known as social finance companies, these organizations act as a mediator between private lenders and needy borrowers. Popular companies include Zopa, which offers low-rate loans from a non-profit member-owned credit union, and Prosper, which can help you get a personal loan from one of the company’s many partners.

8. GreenNote. Designed specifically for students, GreenNote is a unique company that offers an alternative to the traditional student loan. GreenNote doesn’t lend money directly, but it does offer a platform for students to get money from parents, friends, mentors, and strangers. Loans have low interest rates and do not require a credit check, citizenship, or a co-signer.

9. Federal Work Study Programs. Students who need money to fund their postsecondary education can also turn to the Federal Work-Study (FWS) program. The FWS provides funds to students who agree to work part-time either on-campus or off-campus. Jobs are usually community service oriented or related to your job field.

10. School Programs. A lot of colleges and universities have their own financial aid programs for needy students. To learn more about possible programs, you should contact several schools you are interested in and ask to speak to their financial aid department. The department will be able to tell you about their programs and eligibility requirements.

Guest post from Karen Schweitzer who writes about online education for OnlineColleges.net.

© Andrea for College, Career, Life, 2009. | Permalink | No comment | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: advice, college, financial aid, money

Feed enhanced by Better Feed from Ozh

Should the Recession Influence Your Choice of Career?

collegecareerlife — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 11:55:17 +0000

With the constant reports of layoffs and rising unemployment, will more people choose secure occupations over more prestigious or exciting ones? I graduated high school shortly after the dot-com bust and, as a result, never considered a career in information technology. High school and college students, as well as workers who have experienced layoffs, may see the value in a recession-resistant job. Government, education, and health-care jobs are already attracting applicants from other industries.

While job security is a great thing to have, choosing a career solely for the job security is not a good idea. For one, recession proof industries such as education and health-care involve working with people who need compassionate professionals that really have an interest in helping others. Second, you might have a personality or interests that aren’t suited to some of these occupations. There are many careers that will still offer job opportunities in a recession, so don’t just choose the obvious. Everyone looks to secure industries in a bad economy, but don’t let a recession scare you into a career that’s not right for you.

Feed enhanced by Better Feed from Ozh

The Advantages of Being a Young Job Seeker

collegecareerlife — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 21:05:00 +0000

News regarding the current recession can seem pretty scary, particularly to college students and recent graduates. We haven’t even gotten our foot in the door while experienced workers are being laid off left and right. However, there are a few major advantages that young candidates have in a tight job market.

The first major advantage young workers have is that we cost employers less money. When companies are trying to cut costs, candidates with lower salary expectations are a plus. Older workers already have higher salaries and have gotten accustomed to bonuses and other perks. They also cost their employers more in terms of benefits, such as health insurance.

Another big advantage for young workers is that we are more willing to travel and usually open to moving for a job. And since many of us don’t yet have spouses or children, we are usually able to work longer hours and take on more responsibilities than our older co-workers.

Finally, young workers are familiar with technology. Certainly many older workers are very tech-savvy, but today’s college graduates have been raised around computers and have probably taken several computer courses while in school. We understand that technology is constantly changing and that computer skills are essential in almost any occupation.

If you are a recent graduate, don’t be discouraged by the headlines. Just be aware it may take longer to find a job and you may need to compromise a little. Gaining experience is the focus for the first couple of years out of school, so be open to moving to where the jobs are more plentiful or working at a less prestigious organization.

No Related Posts

Feed enhanced by Better Feed from Ozh

College, Career, Life » economy

New Book Helps Job-Seekers Crack the New Market

Related Posts:

The Face of Recession: How to Handle Student Loans

Related Posts:

Frustrations of Today's Job Search

Solutions for the Frustrated Job-Seeker

Related Posts:

Advice on Finding a Job After College

Related Posts:

Five High Demand Jobs for the Future

Related Posts:

Hiring Trends for 2010 College Graduates

Related Posts:

Top Ten Most Flexible Degree Choices

Related Posts:

What Young People Should Learn from this Recession

Related Posts:

Job Numbers: What Really Matters

Related Posts:

Trends in MBA Admissions Change with the Economy

Related Posts:

Private College Experience-Public College Price

Related Posts:

How to Pay for School after Losing Your Job

Related Posts:

Should the Recession Influence Your Choice of Career?

Related Posts:

The Advantages of Being a Young Job Seeker

Related Posts: