Category: Career & Education

Find trusted information from our how-to guides and listicles on everything business, career, and education-related.

Categories
Career & Education Education

10 Best Tuition Free Colleges In The US

The college years can be some of the best years of your life. But they can also be a time of great financial stress. The costs of tuition, room and board, and other expenses can quickly add up.

Thankfully, there are a number of colleges and universities that offer free tuition. These schools typically have low student-to-faculty ratios and offer a variety of academic programs.

If you’re looking for a tuition-free college, be sure to check out our list of the best schools. With a little research, you can find the perfect school for you and your budget.

Campus Based Tuition Free Colleges

1. Berea College
Berea College, located in Berea, Kentucky, is one of the top tuition-free colleges in the United States. Founded in 1855, Berea was the first interracial and coeducational college in the South. The college’s mission is to “provide for the education of promising students from low-income families who have great potential but little opportunity.”

Berea College students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of academic and extracurricular activities. The college offers over 30 majors and 50 minors, as well as a number of pre-professional programs. In addition to academics, students can participate in athletics, music, theatre, and a variety of other extracurricular activities.

2. College of the Ozarks
If you’re looking for a tuition-free college experience in the United States, the College of the Ozarks is hard to beat. Nestled in the Ozarks Mountains of southwest Missouri, this unique college has been tuition-free since it was founded in 1907. 


Students at the College of the Ozarks pay no tuition, but they do have to work 15 hours per week in one of the college’s on-campus jobs. In addition to their regular coursework, students also take classes in topics like Christian Values, Western Heritage, and Patriotic Education. With a student-to-faculty ratio of just 12:1, the College of the Ozarks offers a personal education experience that is hard to find at other

3. Deep Springs College
Deep Springs College is one of the top 10 tuition-free colleges in the United States. It is located in Deep Springs, California and was founded in 1917. The college has an enrollment of about 26 students, all of whom are male. 

The college offers a two-year course of study that combines academic and vocational training. Deep Springs College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

4. Excelsior College
Excelsior College is located in Albany, New York and was founded in 1971. The college specializes in distance learning and adult education, and is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Excelsior College does not charge tuition for any of its programs, making it one of the top tuition-free colleges in the United States. 


The college offers over 60 degree and certificate programs, as well as a number of professional development courses. Excelsior College is a great option for adult learners who are looking to further their education without incurring any tuition costs.

5. George Mason University
George Mason University, located in Fairfax, Virginia, is a public research university with over 33,000 students. The university was founded in 1957 and is named after George Mason, a Virginian planter and statesman who was a delegate to the U.S. Constitutional Convention. The university is classified as a research university with “high research activity” by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

The university offers over 200 degree programs through its 11 schools and colleges. The school of business is the largest, with over 6,000 students. Other popular majors include nursing, psychology, and computer science.

George Mason University is a tuition-free college for Virginia residents. 


Tuition Free Online Colleges

1.Alice Lloyd College Alice Lloyd College is a small, Christian liberal arts college located in Pippa Passes, Kentucky, about 15 miles from the Virginia border. The college was founded in 1926 by the Presbyterian Church and currently serves around 800 students. The college offers a traditional liberal arts education with majors in areas such as English, history, political science, economics, and philosophy. 


2.Arizona State University Arizona State University is a public research university located in Tempe, Arizona, about 15 miles east of Phoenix. The university was founded in 1885 as the Tucson School District. It was later renamed as the Arizona State School of Science and Letters, then as Arizona State College in 1928, and finally as Arizona State University in 2012.


3.Brown University Brown University is a private research university located in Providence, Rhode Island. The school was founded in 1764 and is the third-oldest institution of higher education in the United States. The university is ranked 22nd among national universities by the TIME and is listed 29th by US News & World Report.

4.City College of San Francisco City College of San Francisco, also known as City College, is a two-year community college located in San Francisco, California. The school was founded in 1929 and serves around 44,000 students each semester. The college is renowned for its liberal arts for transfer programs and its science, technology, engineering, and mathematics programs.


5. College of the Ozarks
 The College of the Ozarks, often simply referred to as CO, is a private, liberal arts college located near the Buffalo River in Point Lookout, Missouri. The college was founded in 1925 by Clinton E. Norwood in order to teach students in a rural environment without charge. The college motto is Learning for Life.

Do Military Colleges Charge Tuition?

Students who attend the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy get a full tuition-free education.

Who Should Consider A Tuition Free Education?

 If you are looking to save money on college tuition then a community college may be the way to go. These schools are usually located in or very near major cities and offer lower tuition as well as the same credits accepted at other four-year institutions. 


You might also consider one of the colleges and university on our list including a tuition free campus based education, or an online alternative. 

Featured Resources: What Is A Pell Grant?

Categories
Career & Education Education

10 Most Beautiful Colleges Campuses In The US

If you’re looking for breathtaking college campuses, you’ve come to the right place. From the rolling hills of the University of California, Berkeley, to the stunning foothills of the University of Colorado at Boulder, these campuses will take your breath away. In addition to their natural beauty, these campuses offer a wealth of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students.

So whether you’re looking for a place to study or a place to play, these campuses have it all. There are an endless amount of beautiful college campuses in the United States and it was difficult to narrow it down to just ten. The campuses that made this list include University of Virginia, Stanford University, Duke University, and more…

1. University of Virginia – Charlottesville, Virginia

There are few college campuses in the United States as picturesque as the University of Virginia. The school, founded by Thomas Jefferson, is set against the Blue Ridge Mountains and features pristine lawns, stately red-brick buildings and landscaped gardens. It’s no wonder that the university has been called “the most beautiful campus in America.”

In addition to its physical beauty, the University of Virginia is also renowned for its academic excellence. The school is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the country and is home to a number of prestigious programs, including the Darden School of Business and the School of Law. With its combination of stunning architecture, lush grounds and outstanding academics, it’s no

2. Stanford University – Stanford, California
Nestled in the heart of California’s Silicon Valley, Stanford University is one of the most prestigious universities in the world. It’s also one of the most beautiful, with its red-roofed buildings, palm-lined paths, and manicured gardens. The campus spans more than 8,000 acres, so there’s plenty of room to explore. And if you want to get away from it all, you can take a hike in nearby Stanford Hills Park.

3. Duke University – Durham, North Carolina
Duke University is located in the city of Durham in the state of North Carolina. The university is home to over 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students. The campus spans over 8,000 acres and includes several notable buildings and landmarks. Duke University is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in the United States and is one of the most selective universities in the world. Duke University’s nickname is the “Blue Devils” and its official colors are blue and white. 

The university’s athletic teams compete in the NCAA Division I as members of the Atlantic Coast Conference. Duke University’s campus is often cited as one of the most beautiful in the United States

4. University of California, Berkeley – Berkeley, California
The University of California, Berkeley is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful college campuses in the United States. The school is set against the backdrop of the San Francisco Bay, and its architecture is a mix of traditional and modern styles. Berkeley is also known for its lush landscaping and extensive gardens.

5. Vanderbilt University – Nashville, Tennessee
Vanderbilt University is located in Nashville, Tennessee and is considered one of the most beautiful college campuses in the United States. The university was founded in 1873 and has an enrollment of over 12,000 students. The campus is located on 330 acres of land and features Georgian-style architecture. Vanderbilt University is also home to a number of art museums and galleries, as well as a botanical garden.

6. University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Michigan
If you’re looking for a stunning college campus, the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor should be at the top of your list. The school’s massive 10,000-acre campus is home to some of the most beautiful architecture in the country. The campus is also home to a variety of museums and art galleries, as well as a beautiful arboretum. In addition to its physical beauty, the University of Michigan is also one of the top academic institutions in the country.

7. Georgetown University – Washington
Georgetown University is one of the most beautiful college campuses in the United States. The university is located in Washington, D.C., which is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Georgetown University has a beautiful campus with a lot of history. The university was founded in 1789 and is the oldest Catholic and Jesuit university in the United States. Georgetown University has a lot of beautiful buildings, including the Healy Hall, which is a National Historic Landmark. Georgetown University also has a lot of green space, including The Quadrangle, which is one of the most beautiful places on campus.

8. University of Colorado at Boulder
The University of Colorado at Boulder is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and offers students breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The campus is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a beautiful place to learn and explore.

9. University of California, Berkeley

The University of California, Berkeley is home to some of the most beautiful architecture in the United States. The campus is also full of green space, with well-manicured gardens and lawns. Berkeley is truly a beautiful place to call home.

10. College of William and Mary
The College of William and Mary is located in Virginia and is one of the oldest colleges in the United States. The campus is beautiful with its brick buildings and green space. The college also has a scenic waterfront.

Featured Resources:

What Is A PELL Grant?

Is It Better To Finish Faster or Debt-Free?

Categories
Career Career & Education

13 High Paying Jobs That Don’t Require A College Degree

The fact that a bachelor’s degree has substantial differences in salary potential across different industries is not evidence that it is essential. You can earn six figures in some careers without a degree.

Professionals always look for the best return on investment for their career and professional development. College degrees are a good indication of someone’s knowledge and abilities in a particular field. Nonetheless, this raises an important question: Is the return worth the time and money spent? 

Even with the growing costs of attending college, a college degree remains an important indicator and deciding factor in the hiring process. Many degreed individuals who are having difficulty finding jobs, or getting jobs in their field as initially expected, are underqualified or overqualified for the jobs they find. What is the best way to determine if a college degree is likely to be beneficial and worth the investment? 

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide a definitive answer. By exploring other career paths that do not require a degree but do not have the same growth trajectory or employment potential as your chosen career, you can gain a very broad understanding of whether a college degree is necessary in order to pursue your chosen profession.

As you plan to earn an advanced degree, such as an advanced degree in a teaching area, or a PhD in a related field, then you are greatly increasing your chances of earning a high salary. In addition, you should know that not everyone needs to go to college. There are several other options, including vocational training. If you would like to know how to figure out if you should go to college, you might start taking some online classes, check out this article: “5 Best Places To Take Online Classes.”

If you are interested in any of the jobs on the following list, you may be able to earn a six-figure income, or at least close to it, without having to spend money or time on a college education.

A Note on the Use of Median Salaries

The career paths selected for this list all offer median annual salary of more than $60,000. In cases where the median is less than $60,000, bear in mind that these career paths offer opportunities for you to reach a six-figure salary without spending 4-6 years in college. You also may gain certain intangibles such as sales commissions, on-the-job experience, and the ability to rise to a position of leadership in your field that can all make a six-figure salary attainable.

Maybe college isn’t something you’ve been particularly interested in, or you feel that you need to get a job quickly in order to climb that ladder of opportunity. But considering you have pretty good grades, why not take some time to explore the possible careers and degree paths that can get you on a six-figure salary?

Otherwise, keep reading to find out how to break into a high-paying career, even if it doesn’t require a college degree (or if you’re already mid-career and are looking to boost your salary)!

1. Air Traffic Controller

The life of an air-traffic controller is no picnic. You are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, wherever you are. And there’s no easy shift rotation. Air-traffic controllers have to work nights, weekends, rotating shifts, and must absolutely maintain an absolute maximum of concentration. It’s a tough life, and it’s no wonder that hiring and advancement are pretty competitive.

At a 4% growth rate, it will add fewer than 1000 new jobs between now and 2030. In other words, this occupation is rarified air. But that’s a minor consideration. If you want to set your career in the right trajectory, working as an air traffic controller could give you a salary boost.

2. Police Officer

Being a police detective is a dream of many. Your training program and subsequent on-the-job training with other experienced detectives will provide you with most of the knowledge, credentials, and expertise you need to be successful in your job.

Although police officers and detectives made a median salary of $67,290 in 2020 according to the BLS, numerous career advancement pathways and a strong labor union made it possible for detectives and investigators in the 75 earnings percentile to earn a $111,900 salary in 2020. Longevity, leadership and specialization can all lead to six-figure earnings for veteran law enforcement officers.

3. Online Entrepreneur

Billionaires rarely started out by getting a bachelor’s degree. As a matter of fact, the American university system often stresses the importance of formal education—pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree—over knowledge gained from experience and practical learning.

4. Radiation Therapist

Using radiation to treat cancer is a very common practice, and Radiation Therapists play an important role in this process. Radiation Therapists earned a median salary of $81,100 in 2020 according to the BLS, but top earners may make a six-figure salary of $115,200. 800 or more.

5. Executive Chef

Chefs are in demand. Those who are willing to commit the hard work, long hours, and sometimes stressful work in a fast-paced environment have the chance to gain this experience and become a top-notch chef. While working at the entry level means that this will be your job for at least a couple of years, and that this could be your only path to success, starting in an entry level kitchen position could be your stepping stone to the top.

But not everyone in the restaurant industry achieves this status. Many learn valuable lessons along the way, whether it be the “hard knocks” lesson of kitchen life or simply that cooking isn’t for you—and that it’s okay to say that.

6. Independent Trade Contractor

The ability to earn a living from a specific trade skill whilst enjoying a work life-balance is within reach for many budding entrepreneurs. Whilst professional standards and the cost of education varies by vocation, many skilled trade position can be worked into a successful and profitable small business. The ability to earn a living from a specific trade skill and enjoy work life balance is within reach for many budding entrepreneurs.

Whilst professional standards and the cost of education varies by vocation, many skilled trade position can be worked into a successful and profitable small business.

The ability to earn a six-figure salary has more to do with a company’s ability to grow than just your own individual hustle. Possessing a specific portfolio of trade skills opens up a range of business and career opportunities, which is often much broader than may be immediately apparent. Your earning potential as a trade professional is influenced by the size of the local market where you provide service, your ability to either differentiate yourself or carve out a profitable niche in your field, and your own ambition and level of professionalism.

7. Freelance Writer

The aim of this post is to provide you with a list of tips on how to excel in the world of freelance content development. Take it from somebody who’s been there. However, you should understand that it takes a lot of work and the fostering of positive long-term relationships to earn six figures as a freelance writer. Only a fraction of freelance writers will make that kind of money. But, you can get there. Here’s how. Learn how to write a pitch. Email your pitch to the editor of the publication you’re targeting. Always ask to be paid for your writing. Know your strengths and play to them. Set concrete goals. Get involved in a community of freelance writers online. 

8. Nuclear Technician

The field of nuclear technicians is expected to contract by 12% between now and 2030 due, in part, to retiring and otherwise outgoing professionals. However, despite the impending shrinkage of the market, there will still be 700 new job openings created every year between now and then. That is good news for those who seek employment with nuclear technicians while the field is shrinking, as the available positions will only become more desirable and necessary as time advances.

9. Sales Executive

While it’s hard to predict exactly how much you’ll earn in sales until you start selling, here’s a quick look at what your earning potential could be:

  • Low-Level Sales Representatives bring in around $50,000 a year.
  • Insurance Sales Agents typically earn between $70,000 and $80,000 a year.
  • Luxury Car Sales Agents claim median salaries of around $51,280.
  • Sales Engineers bring in nearly $78,550 a year.
  • Business Development Managers (average salaries reported by Pay Scale) earn over $99,400 a year on average.
  • Sales Managers earn a median salary of $112,860, but you can exceed that with commissions if you’re really on top of your game.
  • Senior Managers who sell can command a salary of around $158,070.
  • Sales Directors can earn salaries of around $130,000, and Boards of Directors can pull in as much as $177,500 a year.
  • Executives can command salaries upwards of $250,000.

Now, of course, these are just median salary examples… but you get the idea. The best sales professionals can earn well into the six figures thanks to sales commissions.

10. Real Estate Investor

Much like sales, real estate is a field in which a combination of personal drive, determination, and charisma can separate you from the field. As with sales, you can begin working in the real estate brokerage field with just a high school diploma or GED. The primary qualification for beginning work in this field is a real estate license, which you can earn by completing a brief certification course and passing the licensing exam administered by your state. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Real Estate Brokers was $60,370 in 2020. But once again, as with sales in general, this median salary tells only part of the story when it comes to potential earnings.

Your ability to hustle, to truly understand and pursue the needs of your clients, and the economic opportunity within the region you serve can all lead to earnings that far exceed this median range. The real estate market is particularly sensitive to ebbs and flows in the overall health of the American economy. This can lead to fluctuations in earnings, and one should be prepared for this possibility. However, real estate is also an excellent option for those with an interest in taking on a side hustle. Many real estate brokers are self-employed or freelance, which means you could have the freedom to set your own appointments around a day job. As a supplementary income on top of your 9-to-5, real estate could easily push you into six-figure territory.

11. Health Educator

For those who love to teach and are skilled in the area of health, a career as a health educator can be very financially rewarding. Health educators teach others about health and may be employed by hospitals, health care facilities, pharmaceutical companies, the Centers for Disease Control, or insurance companies. This career, which is closely related to the field of medicine, typically includes teaching others about the symptoms, treatment, and prevention of disease. A health educator is paid an annual salary that is typically in the range of $45,000 to $75,000.

12. Dental Assistant

A dental assistant is a person who works in the dental office, assisting the dentist and hygienist. Dental assistants perform a variety of tasks, from answering the phone and greeting patients, to sterilizing equipment and preparing materials for procedures. A dental assistant’s salary depends on the region of the country in which he or she works and the type of employer. Generally speaking, however, dental assistants are paid an hourly rate that ranges from $9 to $17 per hour.

13. Computer Programmer

A computer programmer is a person who designs, writes, and maintains the computer programs used to run many systems. Computer programmers create software applications, such as database management systems, word processors, and games. A computer programmer’s salary depends on education level and experience. The average computer programmer earns an annual salary in the range of $40,000 to $80,000.

Categories
Career Career & Education

How To Build A Better Relationship With Your Boss?

How To Build A Better Relationship With Your Boss?

Maintaining a respectful and productive relationship with your boss is important for your growth and the company’s success. When you intend to initiate a relationship with your boss, you should be aware their goal. One of the most important goals of any boss is to work with hardworking employees. If you help your boss with this goal, they will appreciate your efforts.

Build a Better Relationship with Your Boss

Let’s be honest, you want to have a better relationship with your boss, and here is how you can do that:

1.     Give Your Boss Value

Keep in mind that your boss hired you for a reason. They want you to add value to their company. Bosses want their employees to agree with them as well as solve critical problems and challenges. Thus, you can win their heart by giving reasonable suggestions, showing confidence, and speaking facts. When your suggestions and ideas will result in the company’s growth, your boss will have confidence in your capabilities.

2.     Anticipate Their Challenges

You need to understand the challenges your boss faces every day. You can find solutions for their problems and make their tasks simpler. Sometimes, you have to anticipate their challenges before it occurs. So, when your boss will ask a question about the problem, you have a thoughtful answer supporting a solution. Thinking ahead to help your boos will make you a valuable team member.

Your boss undergoes a plethora of challenges every day. Reducing their problems will make them like you. They have a lot of work that you don’t know about. So, why not simplify the tasks that you know of. Also, if your boss has rude behavior, they might be under a lot of pressure. You should understand their position and make things easier for them.

3.     Learn to Communicate Well

You should learn how your boss wants to communicate with you. Whether they like to receive detailed or one-liner emails, you should keep the communication the way they want. If they ask you to send an outline for a project, you should always send them an outline to give them an overview. You should try to mimic their style and improve your communication skills according to their preference.

4.     Make Your Boss Look Good

Everybody wants to maintain a good reputation in the workplace and this includes your boss as well. So, if you want to make your boss happy, make them look good. Remember, when your boss is happy, they will make you happy. This means that you shouldn’t correct your boss when other employees are around. Making your boss embarrassed in front of others by pointing at their mistakes will make them angry.

5.     Ask for Feedback

Always share feedback about your tasks with your boss. Never think that your manager doesn’t have time for your feedback because they are busy with their tasks. Sharing feedback and progress about your tasks will remove the burden from their shoulders. As a result, they can think straight and stay focused on other tasks. A feedback email will do the trick.

Conclusion

In the end, if you want to build a better relationship with your boss, try to gain their trust. Consider your boss as a mentor and go-to person. Creating a better relationship with your boss will result in business success and rewarding for you as well.

Categories
Career & Education Education Financial Loans

Will This Type of Student Loan Forgiveness Be Next?

Could This Type of Student Loan Forgiveness Be Next?

A group of over one hundred organizations representing student loan borrowers recently wrote an open letter calling on the Education Department to overhaul its income-driven repayment program. The goal of an income-driven repayment plan is to make payments more affordable and give borrowing who have already been paying for 20 to 25 years a way out. However, these plans are so poorly designed that only 32 people have qualified for forgiveness as of the beginning of 2021.

According to the National Consumer Law Center, a consumer advocacy group, the government made a promise to borrowers that federal student loan payments would be affordable and would not be a lifetime burden. Unfortunately, the Education Department’s income-driven repayment program has “failed to deliver on every aspect of that promise.”

What is an income-driven repayment plan?

An income-driven repayment plan sets your monthly student loan payment to an affordable amount based on your income and family size. There are several different income-driven repayment plans, but they all generally require borrowers to pay between 10 and 20% of their discretionary income for 20 or 25 years.

What are the downsides to this type of student loan?

Although income-driven repayment plans exist to help low-income borrowers, they come with several downsides as well.

You might not qualify

Most private student loans don’t offer income-driven repayment plans, so you will likely only qualify if you’re a federal student loan borrower. The qualifications can be confusing though: Federal Parent PLUS loans are not directly eligible for this type of repayment plan but may become eligible by including the loans in a Federal Direct Consolidation Loan.

Your loan balance might increase

It’s also possible for student loans to be negatively amortized under this type of repayment plan, which means the loan payments you are making are less than the interest that accrues each month. This results in a higher loan balance which can feel like you’re making zero progress when paying down your debt.

Married borrowers might have a higher payment

Some income-driven repayment plan payments may increase if the borrower gets married and their spouse has a job. This is typically seen as a marriage penalty and can result in a much higher payment than you’re used to due to your joint income.

Student Loan Forgiveness takes a long time

If you’re seeking forgiveness of your student loan debt, you won’t see it until after 20 or 25 years of payment on an income-driven repayment plan. This can feel like you’re in debt forever since you’ll owe money for longer than the standard repayment plan and will end up paying more interest in the long run.

What’s next for student loans?

Advocates are calling for massive reform to the income-driven repayment program since the current program is too complicated, requires too much paperwork, and is poorly managed by the loan servicing companies that run them. Only about 34% of borrowers manage to recertify every year, which is a dismal amount considering these repayment plans are supposed to be helpful.

Categories
Career & Education Debt Education Financial

Is It Better To Finish College Faster Or Debt-Free?

Is It Better To Finish College Faster Or Debt-Free?

A college degree is a significant investment in your future, but no one wants to be saddled with student loan debt for the rest of their life. There are ways to finish your college education faster, but the cost of tuition can add up quickly. As you prepare to choose your college, it’s important to ask yourself: is it better to finish college faster or debt-free?

Working Through College To Be Debt-Free

One of your options to finish college with less debt is to work full-time while you attend classes part-time. If you’re supporting a family or already in a steady employment position, this can be a great option. However, attending school part-time means you will be in school longer, which can mean higher tuition in the long run.

To decide if this is the right option for you, consider how your earning power will increase once you graduate with your degree. Will the costs of attending full-time be offset by the increased income? If you have a lot of financial responsibilities, this might not be a factor as you have to meet your other financial obligations instead.

Applying for College Scholarships

If you qualify for scholarships and grants, you could attend school full-time and graduate faster without racking up student loan debt. There are so many scholarships out there that could help in whatever situation you’re facing, so before taking out student loans, be sure to search for scholarships you may qualify for.

Ask everyone you know if they’re aware of any scholarship opportunities or take your search online to any of several college scholarship search sites to figure out if you’ll qualify for any free money.

Taking Out Student Loans

Of course, if you don’t qualify for a scholarship or grant, you always have the option to take out student loans to cover your college expenses without working. Attending school full-time is expensive, but it also means you’ll graduate more quickly and can start earning more money faster.

If you can’t feasibly work and attend college, consider increasing your course load to graduate faster. Reduce your expenses by living as cheaply as you can and working during the summer to reduce the amount of money you have to borrow each year.

Finding a Balance

So, is it better to finish college faster or debt-free? There’s no single right answer. Some students have a hard time trying to work while attending college, so they’ll work over the summer and save money to balance out the amount of money they have to borrow. Other people have financial obligations to meet outside of school, so they work full-time and attend classes part-time or over the summer instead.

Finding the right balance for your needs is crucial, and a lot of it will depend on your major, your expected income, and how much you end up having to borrow. No matter which option you choose, make sure to follow a college budget and keep your expenses down.

Categories
Career & Education Education

Benefits of Going Back to School Later in Life

Benefits of Going Back to School Later in Life

Going back to school as an adult is very different than if you attend college straight out of high school, but it doesn’t have to be scary or daunting. In fact, there are many benefits of going back to school later in life! Thanks to your age, you’ll have more experience and knowledge to apply to your college education. Here are some advantages to going back to school as an adult:

Career-focused Education

Whether you’re looking into going back to school to switch careers or advance your current career, the education you receive as an adult is typically focused on your job field. Having professional experience to apply to your school is a huge benefit, as you can tailor your classes to match your career goals. Centering your education around your chosen career ensures you’ll be spending your time and money wisely, which isn’t always the case when attending college right out of high school.

Refine Your Skills

Refining your skills, whether they’re professional or personal, is one of the most common reasons why people return to school. Maybe you want more in-depth knowledge of a subject or there’s something you’ve always wanted to learn about. Now that you know what you’re interested in and what your areas for improvement are, attending college can help boost your desired skillset.

Personal Growth

As you grow older, it’s easy to lose sight of who you are by focusing on your family, job, and other responsibilities. Returning to school gives you the opportunity to focus on yourself again by exploring your interests and finding new passions, along with giving you a break from being the teacher or mentor yourself.

Earn More Money Through Education

Maybe you already have a great job, but you aren’t getting as much money as you could be in your field. Many jobs require a degree to advance or earn a higher income, which can earn you exciting new opportunities and the chance to land higher-paying gigs.

Professional Networking For Going Back To School

When you attend school with other adults, you can learn from them and expand your professional network. Studying with other students can help deepen your own learning as well as encourage you to connect with peers in your career field.

Flexible Courses

College courses for adult learning are typically more flexible since the professors know you have other responsibilities to deal with outside of school. They tend to be more balanced in terms of coursework and your home life, so you don’t have to worry about spending too much time on one or the other.

Final Thoughts

Going back to school as an adult can be an exciting and rewarding experience. For many people, it’s a chance to refine their skills, change careers, or earn more money, but it can also result in benefits like professional networking and personal growth. Regardless of your reason for returning to school, it’s a decision that can greatly benefit you in the long run.

Categories
Career Career & Education

7 Work Hacks To Implement This Year

7 Work Hacks To Implement This Year

If you have the motivation and will to succeed in your new job, then all you need is guidance. Sometimes, work can get very exhausting and overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to do your level best. There is no need to stress out if you feel like you’re falling behind. Continue to read further below and go through some of the work hacks you must implement this year.

1.    Formulate a Work To-Do List

If you have a lot to take care of at work, prepare a to-do list. This way, you won’t miss out on any tasks and will feel a sense of achievement once you check each item off your list.  Try making your to-do lists as attractive as possible.

2.    Choose what’s important and what’s urgent

To narrow down which task to complete first, allocate which ones fall under important and urgent. Start by giving more importance to urgent tasks. Then, you can start moving on to the important ones. You can draw out a diagram and start plotting all your tasks in it.

3.    Switch Off Your Notifications When At Work

Our phones are one of the biggest distractions whether it comes to working, studying, or reading. When working, you need complete focus, and unless you want to be distracted by who commented on your Instagram post, it is best to switch off notifications. This will give you time to concentrate on work, so you get everything done much faster.

4.    Enable Email Batching

If you’re bound to get countless emails, then you should try out email batching. This will allow you to read and respond to emails at a given time frame. So you can read about two to three emails per day at particular intervals. With this method, you’re not constantly checking your inbox, allowing you to work and worry about other things.

5.    Create Templates

If you have a repetitive job that requires you to do the same tasks again and again, start creating templates. This will help you save so much time and ensure consistency. For example, if you have to keep sending the same response to certain emails, or give it the same contracts, keep these templates ready as they will make life at work so much easier.

6.    Make Time for Yourself Outside of Work

As much as you need to get work done on time, it’s important to remember that breaks are important. This means taking a day off and engaging in something relaxing and refreshing. This could be going to the gym, dinner, or a spa day with your best friend. If you have a hectic job, you need to keep yourself maintained to take the workload.

7.    Use the Pomodoro Technique

The Pomodoro technique is a way of time management that sets a specific amount of time on how long you work and when to take a break. This technique is very effective for those who have jobs where you have to constantly sit in one place.

Takeaway

With the help of these work hacks, you can easily complete any work task you want, no matter how difficult you might find it. All you have to be is confident and make use of these hacks.

Categories
Career & Education Education Financial Government Grants

What Is A Pell Grant? How to Get Your $6,495.

What Is A Pell Grant? How to Get Your $6,495.

The Federal Pell Grant program is the largest student aid program in the U.S. It provides grant money to the country’s neediest students to help them attend college. It also does not need to be repaid. With tuition constantly increasing, many students aren’t sure how to pay for college, but the Pell Grant can help alleviate those concerns.

If you qualify for a Pell Grant, you can receive up to $6495 to put towards your college education. Qualification is based on financial need. It also includes factors like your family’s assets, your college’s cost of attendance, and how many children in your family are attending college.

What are the requirements?

Before you can apply for a Pell Grant, there are a few basic requirements you must meet. You must:

  • Be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen, such as a permanent resident
  • Hold a high school diploma, GED, or approved home-school certification
  • Have a valid Social Security Number
  • Be registered with Selective Service if you’re a male between 18 and 25
  • Be accepted to an eligible certificate or degree program

Federal Pell Grants are typically awarded to undergraduate students working toward their first college degree, but students in select post-graduate teaching programs may be eligible as well.

How do you apply?

Your first step toward seeing if you qualify for one is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. You’ll need to fill out your FAFSA every year to determine your continued Pell Grant eligibility, so make sure to fill it out as soon as you are able to.

How much student aid can you get?

The maximum award for a Pell Grant is $6495 per school year, but you may not receive the full amount. The Federal Pell Grant is not an all-or-nothing program, and you can receive anywhere up to the maximum award amount depending on how much you qualify for.

You can only receive one Pell Grant per year, and Federal law limits you to receiving six years of Pell Grant funding. This means that you can receive up to the full reward amount every year for a total of six years.

What can this money pay for?

Aid from a Pell Grant can be used to pay for qualified educational expenses. These include:

  • Your college tuition
  • College-related fees like health centers, computer labs, etc.
  • College textbooks and supplies such as paper, binders, safety glasses, etc.
  • On-campus room and board or off-campus living expenses
  • Costs for daycare or other dependent-care expenses

When will you receive your money?

Once your FAFSA has been processed, you’ll receive your financial aid award letters and can start to compare offers. Federal Pell Grants, if you qualify, are paid out through colleges, so your school will let you know when and how you’ll be paid. Some schools apply the money directly to your tuition, some cut you a check, and others do a little of both.

Categories
Career Career & Education

The First Thing To Do When Becoming a Manager

The First Thing To Do When Becoming a Manager

Are you excited to become a first-time manager? There are a few things that you should follow as ground rules. When you have a team to manage, you can easily make mistakes. The key to success is to realize and prepare for the mistakes beforehand. Here are some tips for new managers so they can succeed and set an example for their team.

1.     Always Research

Walking into the first day blinded can be embarrassing. You have to stay prepared and understand your new role before joining. Learn your training opportunities and keep your head clear. If you have tools and resources from the new manager’s training program, go through it multiple times. Also, read HR documents and manuals and understand the business process. When you are aware of the company before starting the first day, you can make a good first-time impression.

2.     Shift Your Focus

Many new managers struggle to shift their focus. They cannot understand their new role and help people with their tasks instead of performing their job. Keep in mind you have to prepare your team to perform the tasks. Also, your focus should be to achieve team goals. Thus, you have to prepare a team that can handle tasks according to their capabilities.

3.     Manage Relationship Shifts

If you got a promotion in the same company you were working for before, you have to understand the power shift. This can be uncomfortable since you were already closer to your team before. But, it is important to succeed as a team. You must forget closed-door chats and one-on-one after-dinner drinks. That way, you can equally treat your team members.

You need to separate your work relationship from friendships. If your friends can’t understand the relationship shifts, you should honestly explain. They may not agree, but you have to make things clear for the success of your team.

4.     Set Clear Goals

When your goals are clear, you can focus on your employees and handle tasks. Becoming a manager is a tough job with extensive tasks. You can focus on your goals by removing subjectivity while considering performance reviews.  

5.     Stay Consistent

When you have to boost the confidence of your team, you must stay consistent with your decisions. Change in decisions will loosen your team morale. Also, never let emotions rule your decisions. Emotional control will help you become consistent. Another thing that helps to improve consistency is patience. Don’t make rapid decisions. Instead, take a coffee and make informed decisions.

6.     Set an Example

When you are a manager your team will look at your action. They will see how you behave. They will learn to tackle challenges from you. So you shouldn’t complain about your boss and deadlines and spew personal opinions. You need to be the master of the game.

Conclusion

When you have clear goals, appropriate research, and consistency with decision-making, you can become a successful manager. Keep in mind that you have a team to manage, if you let your emotions control your decisions, you will let your team down. So, follow these steps and set an example from the first day.