Physician Assistant jobs will grow by 33.5% in Ohio through 2018. This job requires a Master’s degree and has an average salary of $83,886. The expansion of the healthcare industry is responsible for the job growth, with an increasing use of PAs by healthcare establishments for cost containment purposes.
Annually, in Ohio, over 99 new jobs will be added in this field, though 2018. This occupation should not be confused with medical assistants, who perform routine clinical and clerical tasks.
However, the number of jobs is greater than the number of practicing PAs because about 15% of them hold two or more jobs (for example, with a supervising physician and also in another healthcare facility).
PAs work in primary care (general internal medicine, pediatrics or family medicine), or in specialty areas, such as general and thoracic surgery, emergency medicine, orthopedics, and geriatrics. Most job growth will occur in rural and inner-city healthcare facilities, where it is difficult to attract physicians. A possible downside of these locations is the lack of close supervision.
Over 50% of PAs work in physicians’ offices, and about 25% in hospitals. The rest of the positions are in outpatient care centers (like health maintenance organizations), the Federal Government; and colleges or professional schools.
According to the national accrediting commission, physician assistants are prepared academically and clinically to provide health care services under the direction and supervision of a surgeon or doctor of medicine or osteopathy.
PAs make clinical decisions for primary and specialty care, and provide diagnostic, therapeutic, preventive, and health maintenance services. PAs’ work includes primary and specialty care in medical and surgical practice and may include patient instruction and counseling, educational, research, and administrative activities, such as making progress notes. A physician assistant (PA) is a specially qualified health care professional who provides medical care under the supervision of a licensed physician in a variety of health care settings.
As a member of a healthcare team, a PA’s span of control is wide and determined both by state law and the supervising physician. Prospective students should get familiar, and stay current, with the Ohio state law governing the scope of a PAs work. Physicians may delegate to PAs medical duties that are both within the physician’s scope of practice and aligned with the PA’s training and experience and state law.
He or she:
• Takes medical histories
• Examines and treat patients
• Orders or carries out therapy
• Orders and interprets laboratory tests and x rays
• Makes diagnoses
• Treats minor injuries by suturing, splinting, and casting
• Prescribes specific medications
• Performs managerial duties, such as ordering medical supplies or equipment
• Supervises medical technicians and assistants
• Makes house calls or goes to hospitals and nursing care facilities to check on patients, and then report back to the physician.
• PAs who specialize in surgery may work as first or second assistants during major surgery to provide preoperative and postoperative care.
How to Find the Best College for a Physician Assistant Degree
Attending a school accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant is critical to passing the national exam and obtaining a license. PAs are licensed and regulated by the Ohio State Medical Board, the same as physicians. About 80% of programs offer the master’s degree.
Most applicants have a college degree and typically, four years of health-related work experience. Nurses, EMTs, and paramedics often apply to these programs.
Schools current accredited in Ohio are:
Cuyahoga Community College / Cleveland State University
Kettering College Of Medical Arts
Marietta College
Medical University of Ohio at University of Toledo
Mount Union College (*provisional)
University Of Findlay (on probation)
The curriculum includes medical, behavioral, and social sciences courses that cover health policy and professional practice issues. Students are given an introduction to clinical medicine and patient assessment; and supervised clinical practice.
Classroom and laboratory instruction includes biochemistry, pathology, human anatomy, physiology, clinical pharmacology, clinical medicine, physical diagnosis, and medical ethics.
Only the University of Toledo is included, as number 69, in the U.S. News and World Report rankings of top schools nationwide for physician assistant training. The top-ranked are: The University of Iowa, Duke University, Emory University, George Washington University, The University of Texas at Southwestern Medical Center, and the University of Utah.
In school, physicians, PAs and others provide instruction in a curriculum following the medical school model. Here, the relationship between PA and physician begins. Many accredited programs offer clinical experience, in affiliation with a medical school. PA students share classes, facilities and clinical rotations with medical students.
Physician assistant educational programs usually take at least 2 years to complete on a full-time basis. Most programs are at schools of allied health, academic health centers, medical schools, or 4-year colleges. Some are at community colleges or hospitals, or are part of the military.
When evaluating schools, I recommend that you look closely at the course listings offered, and talk directly to the professors who teach them to find out where their recent students are working and to explore their teaching philosophy. PA programs include supervised clinical training in areas like family medicine, internal medicine, surgery, prenatal care and gynecology, geriatrics, emergency medicine, and pediatrics.
Tips for Getting Hired
PA students sometimes serve in one or more of clinical areas under the supervision of a physician who is seeking to hire a PA. The rotation may lead to permanent employment in one of these areas.
To obtain a license, physician assistants must complete an accredited education program and pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination, which is open only to graduates of accredited programs and is administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). After passing the exam, PAs are “Physician Assistant-Certified.”
To maintain certification, PAs must obtain 100 hours of continuing medical education every two years (as physician must do). PAs must then pass a national recertification exam every six years or complete an alternative program that combines learning experiences and a take-home examination.
Although the physician-PA relationship is critical, in many settings (particularly the growing rural and urban practices), close physician supervision is not possible, as a doctor may only be present a couple of days per week. In such cases, conferences with a supervising physician and other medical professionals are required by law.
According to the commission, excellent soft skills are, therefore, mandatory: “The role of the PA demands intelligence, sound judgment, intellectual honesty, appropriate interpersonal skills, and the capacity to react to emergencies in a calm and reasoned manner. An attitude of respect for self and others, adherence to the concepts of privilege and confidentiality in communicating with patients, and a commitment to the patient’s welfare are essential attributes of the graduate PA.”
As always, What’s Your Major? strongly recommends joining a professional association and attending local or national meetings to get a better understanding of the field and to kick off your job networking campaign. For additional information about a career in Ohio as a physician assistant, contact: the Ohio Association for Physician Assistants, 4700 Reed Road, Suite N • Columbus, OH 43220 Tel: 800.292.4997 • Fax: 614.824.2103 • OAPA@OhioPA.com
For information a list of accredited programs, contact:
American Academy of Physician Assistants Information Center, 950 North Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314. Internet: http://www.aapa.org
Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistants, 12000 Findley Road, Suite 240, Johns Creek, Georgia 30097. Internet: http://www.arc-pa.org
For eligibility requirements and a description of the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination, contact: National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants, Inc., 12000 Findley Rd., Suite 200, Duluth, GA 30097. Internet: http://www.nccpa.net
My mission is to empower youth with: - The knowledge about career possibilities, and the education and training needed to attain them - The creative-thinking and emotional skills that make for good career decisions and which employers prefer; - And the resilience needed to flourish in life.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Wednesday, March 02, 2011
High-Demand Careers in Ohio: Athletic Trainer
Athletic Training jobs will grow by 35.6% in Ohio through 2018. This job requires a Bachelor’s degree and has an average salary of $42,860. Technological advances and an increased emphasis on preventive care (particularly in schools and employment settings) are also expected to increase the demand for athletic trainers. Most job growth will occur in the health industry, like doctor’s offices and ambulatory healthcare services.
Annually, over 29 new jobs will be added in this field in Ohio, though 2018. Both sports and non-sports work setting are common. About 60 percent of athletic trainers work for non-sports employers, like recreational or youth sports teams, colleges and professional schools or hospitals.
Athletic trainers help athletes and clients to rehabilitate from injuries. They assess injuries, and develop treatment plans, and apply tape, bandages, braces and other protective devices. They also educate people about how to avoid injuries through the proper use of equipment. Physicians collaborate with athletic trainers in all of these areas and often supervise athletic trainers’ work to some extent, depending on work setting.
How to Find the Best College for an Athletic Training Degree
Accredited colleges in or near Northeast Ohio are: Ashland University, Baldwin-Wallace College, Bowling Green State University, Kent State University, Ohio Northern University, Otterbein College, The University of Akron, The University of Findlay, The University of Mount Union, and The University of Toledo. A bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training or Sports Medicine includes education in the classroom and clinical settings. Courses include human anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and biomechanics.
Nationally, there is no published ranking of top athletic training programs. The best way to look, if you’re interested in rankings, is to use U.S. News and World Report’s Top Colleges and Universities lists, then search for nationally certified Athletic Training programs, using the listings published by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Programs. Look for schools that offer graduate level education. Resources for these programs should be optimized.
Once you find them, I recommend that you look closely at the course listings offered, and talk directly to the professors who teach them to find out where their recent students are working and what internship support they can provide.
Tips for Getting Hired
Certification and/or licensure are increasing requirments for being hired for certain athletic trainer positions. And about 70 percent of certified athletic trainers have a master’s or doctoral degree. To work in a high school setting, a teaching certificate or license may also be required.
Board certification is required for licensure, registration or both, which is required in 43 states, including Ohio. A bachelor’s degree from an accredited athletic
trainer program is part of the requirement for becoming certified by the Board of Certification.
As always, What’s Your Major? strongly recommends joining a professional association and attending local or national meetings to get a better understanding of the field and to kick off your job networking campaign. For additional information about a career as an athletic trainer, contact: The National Athletic Trainer Association, 2952 Stemmons Freeway #200, Dallas, TX 75247 214.637.6282 Career Center: 1.888.491.8833 Ext. 2029
Annually, over 29 new jobs will be added in this field in Ohio, though 2018. Both sports and non-sports work setting are common. About 60 percent of athletic trainers work for non-sports employers, like recreational or youth sports teams, colleges and professional schools or hospitals.
Athletic trainers help athletes and clients to rehabilitate from injuries. They assess injuries, and develop treatment plans, and apply tape, bandages, braces and other protective devices. They also educate people about how to avoid injuries through the proper use of equipment. Physicians collaborate with athletic trainers in all of these areas and often supervise athletic trainers’ work to some extent, depending on work setting.
How to Find the Best College for an Athletic Training Degree
Accredited colleges in or near Northeast Ohio are: Ashland University, Baldwin-Wallace College, Bowling Green State University, Kent State University, Ohio Northern University, Otterbein College, The University of Akron, The University of Findlay, The University of Mount Union, and The University of Toledo. A bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training or Sports Medicine includes education in the classroom and clinical settings. Courses include human anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and biomechanics.
Nationally, there is no published ranking of top athletic training programs. The best way to look, if you’re interested in rankings, is to use U.S. News and World Report’s Top Colleges and Universities lists, then search for nationally certified Athletic Training programs, using the listings published by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Programs. Look for schools that offer graduate level education. Resources for these programs should be optimized.
Once you find them, I recommend that you look closely at the course listings offered, and talk directly to the professors who teach them to find out where their recent students are working and what internship support they can provide.
Tips for Getting Hired
Certification and/or licensure are increasing requirments for being hired for certain athletic trainer positions. And about 70 percent of certified athletic trainers have a master’s or doctoral degree. To work in a high school setting, a teaching certificate or license may also be required.
Board certification is required for licensure, registration or both, which is required in 43 states, including Ohio. A bachelor’s degree from an accredited athletic
trainer program is part of the requirement for becoming certified by the Board of Certification.
As always, What’s Your Major? strongly recommends joining a professional association and attending local or national meetings to get a better understanding of the field and to kick off your job networking campaign. For additional information about a career as an athletic trainer, contact: The National Athletic Trainer Association, 2952 Stemmons Freeway #200, Dallas, TX 75247 214.637.6282 Career Center: 1.888.491.8833 Ext. 2029
Monday, February 28, 2011
High-Demand Careers in Ohio: Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineering is the fastest growing occupation in Ohio through 2018. This job requires at least a Bachelor’s degree to reach the average salary of $79,206, which (like all engineering professions) is among the highest of all college graduates. Research positions sometimes require a graduate degree.
While not the largest field in engineering, it is the fastest growing nationwide, due to the aging of the population and a related focus on health issues. The demand for better medical devices and equipment, and more sophisticated medical equipment and procedures, will correspond with an increased need for cost-effectiveness, particularly in pharmaceutical manufacturing and related industries.
Annually, 29 new jobs will be added in this field in Ohio, though 2018. Engineers in biomedicine apply a knowledge of engineering, biology, and biomechanical principles to the design, development, and evaluation of biological and health systems and products. Science and mathematics principles are applied to scientific discoveries, in order to develop commercial services and procedures that solve medical and health-related problems.
Many biomedical engineers collaborate with medical scientists, to research, develop and evaluate:
• Devices (for medical procedures, automating insulin injections or controlling body functions),
• Imaging systems (such as magnetic resonance imaging),
• Products such as artificial organs, prostheses, and instruments or
• Medical information, health management and care delivery systems.
The work focuses on the specification, design and testing of a product and its components, including the final design, effectiveness, cost, reliability, and safety. Companies producing artificial organs, prostheses, instrumentation, medical information systems, and heath management and care delivery systems are typical employers.
How to Find the Best College for Biomedical Engineering
Common college majors for biomedical engineers are biology, mathematics, engineering and technology. Courses in general engineering, mathematics and the physical/life sciences will be accompanied by a design course, computer and/or laboratory class. Often, general courses in social sciences or humanities, are required.
Most biomedical engineers also need to have a background in another engineering specialty, like mechanical or electronics engineering. Many engineers specialize with the biomedical field, in biomaterials, biomechanics, medical imaging, rehabilitation engineering, or orthopedic engineering.
Twenty-three colleges in Northeast Ohio offer specialized majors in biomedical engineering, biomedical technology or biotechnology. They are: Ashland University, Baldwin-Wallace College, Case Western Reserve University, Chancellor University, Cleveland State University, The College of Wooster, Hiram College, John Carroll University, Kent State University, Lake Erie College, The Laura and Alvin Siegal College of Judaic Studies, Malone College, Oberlin College, Notre Dame College, The Rabbinical College of Telshe, The University of Akron, The University of Mount Union, Alliance College and Walsh University.
I recommend that you look closely at the course listing, and talk directly to the professors who teach them about where their recent students are working and what internship support they can provide.
Top-ranked graduate programs nationally, according to U.S. News and World Report, are: Johns Hopkins University (Whiting), George Institute of Technology, University of San Diego (Jacobs), Duke University, University of Washington (Seattle), Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Pennsylvania, Boston University, Rice University and Stanford University.
Tips for Getting Hired
Common job titles in biomedical engineering include Bio-Mechanical Engineer, Dialysis Engineer, or Biomaterials Engineer. Experienced engineers obtain graduate degrees in engineering or business administration to learn new technology and broaden their education.
The engineering technology professional track is centered on practical design and production work, rather than theoretical and scientific development. Engineering technology careers requires focused coursework current issues in the application of engineering principles. Graduates of 4-year technology programs may get jobs similar to those obtained by graduates with a bachelor's degree in engineering, but can not register as professional engineers.
In order to keep up with technology improvements, continuing education is critical.
As always, What’s Your Major? strongly recommends joining a professional association and attending local or national meetings to get a better understanding of the field and to kick off your job networking campaign.
Engineers who offer their services directly to the public must be licensed. Licensed engineers are called professional engineers (PEs). Licensure usually requires a degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program, 4 years of relevant work experience, and completion of a state examination. After graduation, the licensing process requires taking the examination in two stages. The first Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination can be taken immediately. After acquiring suitable work experience, engineers quality for the second examination, called the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam.
For additional information about a career as a biomedical engineer, contact: Biomedical Engineering Society, 8401 Corporate Dr., Suite 140, Landover, MD 20785
While not the largest field in engineering, it is the fastest growing nationwide, due to the aging of the population and a related focus on health issues. The demand for better medical devices and equipment, and more sophisticated medical equipment and procedures, will correspond with an increased need for cost-effectiveness, particularly in pharmaceutical manufacturing and related industries.
Annually, 29 new jobs will be added in this field in Ohio, though 2018. Engineers in biomedicine apply a knowledge of engineering, biology, and biomechanical principles to the design, development, and evaluation of biological and health systems and products. Science and mathematics principles are applied to scientific discoveries, in order to develop commercial services and procedures that solve medical and health-related problems.
Many biomedical engineers collaborate with medical scientists, to research, develop and evaluate:
• Devices (for medical procedures, automating insulin injections or controlling body functions),
• Imaging systems (such as magnetic resonance imaging),
• Products such as artificial organs, prostheses, and instruments or
• Medical information, health management and care delivery systems.
The work focuses on the specification, design and testing of a product and its components, including the final design, effectiveness, cost, reliability, and safety. Companies producing artificial organs, prostheses, instrumentation, medical information systems, and heath management and care delivery systems are typical employers.
How to Find the Best College for Biomedical Engineering
Common college majors for biomedical engineers are biology, mathematics, engineering and technology. Courses in general engineering, mathematics and the physical/life sciences will be accompanied by a design course, computer and/or laboratory class. Often, general courses in social sciences or humanities, are required.
Most biomedical engineers also need to have a background in another engineering specialty, like mechanical or electronics engineering. Many engineers specialize with the biomedical field, in biomaterials, biomechanics, medical imaging, rehabilitation engineering, or orthopedic engineering.
Twenty-three colleges in Northeast Ohio offer specialized majors in biomedical engineering, biomedical technology or biotechnology. They are: Ashland University, Baldwin-Wallace College, Case Western Reserve University, Chancellor University, Cleveland State University, The College of Wooster, Hiram College, John Carroll University, Kent State University, Lake Erie College, The Laura and Alvin Siegal College of Judaic Studies, Malone College, Oberlin College, Notre Dame College, The Rabbinical College of Telshe, The University of Akron, The University of Mount Union, Alliance College and Walsh University.
I recommend that you look closely at the course listing, and talk directly to the professors who teach them about where their recent students are working and what internship support they can provide.
Top-ranked graduate programs nationally, according to U.S. News and World Report, are: Johns Hopkins University (Whiting), George Institute of Technology, University of San Diego (Jacobs), Duke University, University of Washington (Seattle), Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Pennsylvania, Boston University, Rice University and Stanford University.
Tips for Getting Hired
Common job titles in biomedical engineering include Bio-Mechanical Engineer, Dialysis Engineer, or Biomaterials Engineer. Experienced engineers obtain graduate degrees in engineering or business administration to learn new technology and broaden their education.
The engineering technology professional track is centered on practical design and production work, rather than theoretical and scientific development. Engineering technology careers requires focused coursework current issues in the application of engineering principles. Graduates of 4-year technology programs may get jobs similar to those obtained by graduates with a bachelor's degree in engineering, but can not register as professional engineers.
In order to keep up with technology improvements, continuing education is critical.
As always, What’s Your Major? strongly recommends joining a professional association and attending local or national meetings to get a better understanding of the field and to kick off your job networking campaign.
Engineers who offer their services directly to the public must be licensed. Licensed engineers are called professional engineers (PEs). Licensure usually requires a degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program, 4 years of relevant work experience, and completion of a state examination. After graduation, the licensing process requires taking the examination in two stages. The first Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination can be taken immediately. After acquiring suitable work experience, engineers quality for the second examination, called the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam.
For additional information about a career as a biomedical engineer, contact: Biomedical Engineering Society, 8401 Corporate Dr., Suite 140, Landover, MD 20785
Friday, February 25, 2011
High-Demand Careers in Ohio: Computer Network, Systems and Database Administrators
Computer Network, Systems, and Database Administrator jobs are projected to grow much faster than all other occupations nationwide over the 2008-18, and are the highest growth occupation in Ohio. Annually, over 700 new jobs in a wide range of industries will be added in this field in Ohio, though 2018. Average salaries exceed $71,000.
A related field includes web designers, administrators and webmasters.
However, the most lucrative job title within this field is the analyst, who analyzes, designs, tests, and evaluates network systems, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), Internet, intranet, and other data communications systems. Database analysts also perform network modeling, analysis, and planning. They research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software and may supervise programmers.
How to Find the Best College for Computer Science
Common college majors for network and systems administrators are computer science, information science, and management information systems (MIS).
Certainly, an MBA is an advantage in this field. MIS programs usually are part of a business school or college and include finance, marketing, accounting, and management courses. More technical studies in systems design, networking, database management, and systems security are also common.
Colleges in Northeast Ohio that offer appropriate majors include Ashland University, Case Western Reserve University, Baldwin-Wallace College, Cleveland State University, The College of Wooster, Hiram College, John Carroll University, Kent State University, Lake Erie College, Oberlin College, Notre Dame College, University of Akron, The University of Mount Union, Alliance College and Ursuline College.
I recommend that you look closely at the course listing, and talk directly to the professors who teach them about where their recent students are working and what internship support they can provide.
Top-ranked Computer Science programs nationally, according to the hiring trends tracked by The Wall Street Journal, are offered by Carnegie Mellon University, University of California at Berkely, University of Michigan, Georgia University of Technology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Pennsylvania State University, Purdue University, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and University of Maryland.
(Note: For webmasters, an associate degree or certification is usually sufficient.)
Tips for Getting Hired
Most of these professionals begin as computer support specialists before advancing into network or systems administration positions. Jobseekers can also enhance their employment opportunities by earning certifications, which are offered through product vendors, computer associations, and other training institutions.
As always, What’s Your Major? strongly recommends joining a professional association and attending local or national meetings to get a better understanding of the field and to kick off your job networking campaign. Many associations offer student member rates, job search sites, and opportunities for students to meet hiring managers at professional functions. Contact us for college and career coaching!
For additional information about a career as a computer network, systems, or database administrator, contact:
The League of Professional System Administrators, 15000 Commerce Pkwy., Suite C, Mount Laurel, NJ 08054.
Data Management International, 19239 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. #132, Lutz, FL 33548.
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), 2 Penn Plaza, Suite 701, New York, NY 10121-0701. Phone: (800) 342-6626.
Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), 1815 S. Meyers Rd., Suite 300, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181-5228. Phone: (630) 678-8300. Fax: (630) 268-1384.
IEEE Computer Society , 1730 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036-1992. Phone: (202) 371-0101. Fax: (202) 728-9614.
Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP), 2350 E. Devon Ave., Suite 115, Des Plaines, IL 60018-4610. Phone: (847) 299-4227. Fax: (847) 299-4280.
National Workforce Center for Emerging Technologies (NWCET), Bellevue Community College, 3000 Landerholm Circle SE, N258, Bellevue, WA 98007-6484. Phone: (425) 564-4229. Fax: (425) 564-6193.
A related field includes web designers, administrators and webmasters.
However, the most lucrative job title within this field is the analyst, who analyzes, designs, tests, and evaluates network systems, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), Internet, intranet, and other data communications systems. Database analysts also perform network modeling, analysis, and planning. They research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software and may supervise programmers.
How to Find the Best College for Computer Science
Common college majors for network and systems administrators are computer science, information science, and management information systems (MIS).
Certainly, an MBA is an advantage in this field. MIS programs usually are part of a business school or college and include finance, marketing, accounting, and management courses. More technical studies in systems design, networking, database management, and systems security are also common.
Colleges in Northeast Ohio that offer appropriate majors include Ashland University, Case Western Reserve University, Baldwin-Wallace College, Cleveland State University, The College of Wooster, Hiram College, John Carroll University, Kent State University, Lake Erie College, Oberlin College, Notre Dame College, University of Akron, The University of Mount Union, Alliance College and Ursuline College.
I recommend that you look closely at the course listing, and talk directly to the professors who teach them about where their recent students are working and what internship support they can provide.
Top-ranked Computer Science programs nationally, according to the hiring trends tracked by The Wall Street Journal, are offered by Carnegie Mellon University, University of California at Berkely, University of Michigan, Georgia University of Technology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Pennsylvania State University, Purdue University, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and University of Maryland.
(Note: For webmasters, an associate degree or certification is usually sufficient.)
Tips for Getting Hired
Most of these professionals begin as computer support specialists before advancing into network or systems administration positions. Jobseekers can also enhance their employment opportunities by earning certifications, which are offered through product vendors, computer associations, and other training institutions.
As always, What’s Your Major? strongly recommends joining a professional association and attending local or national meetings to get a better understanding of the field and to kick off your job networking campaign. Many associations offer student member rates, job search sites, and opportunities for students to meet hiring managers at professional functions. Contact us for college and career coaching!
For additional information about a career as a computer network, systems, or database administrator, contact:
The League of Professional System Administrators, 15000 Commerce Pkwy., Suite C, Mount Laurel, NJ 08054.
Data Management International, 19239 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. #132, Lutz, FL 33548.
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), 2 Penn Plaza, Suite 701, New York, NY 10121-0701. Phone: (800) 342-6626.
Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), 1815 S. Meyers Rd., Suite 300, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181-5228. Phone: (630) 678-8300. Fax: (630) 268-1384.
IEEE Computer Society , 1730 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036-1992. Phone: (202) 371-0101. Fax: (202) 728-9614.
Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP), 2350 E. Devon Ave., Suite 115, Des Plaines, IL 60018-4610. Phone: (847) 299-4227. Fax: (847) 299-4280.
National Workforce Center for Emerging Technologies (NWCET), Bellevue Community College, 3000 Landerholm Circle SE, N258, Bellevue, WA 98007-6484. Phone: (425) 564-4229. Fax: (425) 564-6193.
Sunday, November 07, 2010
Success After High School: Whose Job Is It?
Many students don’t go right to college and also don’t have vocational training. Once graduated, they’re “off the radar screen”.
According to a December 2009 study by The Public Agenda, post-secondary students have complex issues that undercut their ability to completion their education and training:
• Among students in four-year schools, 45 percent work more than 20 hours a week.
• Among those attending community colleges, 6 in 10 work more than 20 hours a week, and
more than a quarter work more than 35 hours a week.
• Twenty-three percent of college students have dependent children.
They are desperate for enhanced guidance and we are desperate to give it to them. In an article for the National Career Development Association, Dr. Janet Wall points out that the US ranks 20 of out 28 in high school graduation rates and 12th in college graduation, the likely long-range impact to our economy is frightening.
It’s not academics that hold these folks back; according to research, it’s stress, problems with work/life/school balance and costs. They don’t lack potential; They lack support.
And the problem starts early: It’s no secret that high school counselors are overworked; particularly in public schools. In private schools, they often focus on admission into prestigious colleges. Few have the resources to intervene with the average student, who may not know how to advocate for him or herself; who doesn’t know the job and college/training options that are out there. They can’t even ask the right questions to get actionable information.
How criminal that they often must struggle only to fail and leave training with a greater, not lesser, burden: student loans
But they can tell us what they need: They need college and training to be more convenient and more affordable. A great majority say part-time financial aid and flexible course scheduling would be key to their success.
Many of us can help: Rather than dropping this societal issue in the laps of high school counselors, the whole school staff should be focused on it. Employers, community, politicians, parents, foundations, nonprofits share the vision and can share programming resources.
Contact us for college and career planning.
According to a December 2009 study by The Public Agenda, post-secondary students have complex issues that undercut their ability to completion their education and training:
• Among students in four-year schools, 45 percent work more than 20 hours a week.
• Among those attending community colleges, 6 in 10 work more than 20 hours a week, and
more than a quarter work more than 35 hours a week.
• Twenty-three percent of college students have dependent children.
They are desperate for enhanced guidance and we are desperate to give it to them. In an article for the National Career Development Association, Dr. Janet Wall points out that the US ranks 20 of out 28 in high school graduation rates and 12th in college graduation, the likely long-range impact to our economy is frightening.
It’s not academics that hold these folks back; according to research, it’s stress, problems with work/life/school balance and costs. They don’t lack potential; They lack support.
And the problem starts early: It’s no secret that high school counselors are overworked; particularly in public schools. In private schools, they often focus on admission into prestigious colleges. Few have the resources to intervene with the average student, who may not know how to advocate for him or herself; who doesn’t know the job and college/training options that are out there. They can’t even ask the right questions to get actionable information.
How criminal that they often must struggle only to fail and leave training with a greater, not lesser, burden: student loans
But they can tell us what they need: They need college and training to be more convenient and more affordable. A great majority say part-time financial aid and flexible course scheduling would be key to their success.
Many of us can help: Rather than dropping this societal issue in the laps of high school counselors, the whole school staff should be focused on it. Employers, community, politicians, parents, foundations, nonprofits share the vision and can share programming resources.
Contact us for college and career planning.
Sunday, August 01, 2010
What is Academic Coaching?
The best coaches listen actively to a student's concerns and ask powerful questions to help him or her:
• Get ready to learn
• Leverage strengths and learning styles
• Address weaknesses
• Use emotional and social intelligence to excel at school and work
• Think creatively and critically
• Understand the global landscape
• Develop and fulfill goals in learning and life.
How is Coaching Delivered?
We offer one-to-one coaching and affordable training workshops for parents, teachers, and counselors. Both formats offer a complete coaching experience, built on activities, reading and writing assignments.
For Students:
Manage resources, match your abilities and interests to career fields, understand the global landscape, rebound from setbacks and prepare for the real world of work.
For Parents, Teachers and Counselors:
We train professionals who are serious about making major improvements in K-12 education through coaching, district seminars, parent sessions and teacher training to:
• Improve their interpersonal (and managerial) effectiveness using coaching skills as a primary communication and motivational tool.
• Utilize the LifeBound line of books and curricula, giving teacher training sessions and developing your own coaching practice with students, parents and faculty.
Contact us for our individual and small group coaching and training!
• Get ready to learn
• Leverage strengths and learning styles
• Address weaknesses
• Use emotional and social intelligence to excel at school and work
• Think creatively and critically
• Understand the global landscape
• Develop and fulfill goals in learning and life.
How is Coaching Delivered?
We offer one-to-one coaching and affordable training workshops for parents, teachers, and counselors. Both formats offer a complete coaching experience, built on activities, reading and writing assignments.
For Students:
Manage resources, match your abilities and interests to career fields, understand the global landscape, rebound from setbacks and prepare for the real world of work.
For Parents, Teachers and Counselors:
We train professionals who are serious about making major improvements in K-12 education through coaching, district seminars, parent sessions and teacher training to:
• Improve their interpersonal (and managerial) effectiveness using coaching skills as a primary communication and motivational tool.
• Utilize the LifeBound line of books and curricula, giving teacher training sessions and developing your own coaching practice with students, parents and faculty.
Contact us for our individual and small group coaching and training!
Friday, July 16, 2010
Overcoming the First Obstacle to Attending College: Money
Whether you’ve saved for college or not, don’t let your financial limitations stop you from considering college; any college. There are many colleges and universities that offer different educational experiences and they charge different prices. The majority of college students get financial aid to help pay for college costs. Much of that aid is based on financial need rather than grades. But grades are a big consideration in the type and amount of the award. Being knowledgeable and proactive will help you overcome the obstacle of money for college.
Working with the Admissions Department to Budget for College
If costs are a great concern, you should inquire with the admissions department about “nontraditional”, “articulation”, “early college” programs and scholarships; all of which can reduce costs significantly.
If you’re a desirable student, due to your grades, “legacy” status or athletic record, you may have more options.
Every institution has “recruitment goals” and you might fit the profile of what it’s looking for this year; particular if you are a “first generation” or “diverse” (minority or international) student.
If you’re very clear about your major, and you have good grades, make sure you let the faculty of your future academic program know about your interest in the college. Talk with them by phone or meet with them in person, and send them an email. Then, send a copy to the admissions departments, who usually keep track of your level of “expressed interest”. This may have some influence on the admission or financial aid decisions.
Communicate with the Financial Aid Department to Maximize Your Award
Soon after the admission decision is made by the college, the financial aid award will be determined. The financial aid awards begin right after January 1, The college’s federal aid allocations start to get tapped then, so apply early for the best chance to maximize your award.
Some colleges offer a special rate if you commit early (called “Early Decision”) to attending. However, this may affect your ability to compare aid packages from several institutions.
The financial aid policy of the school could become a major factor in your final college choice. Some schools will not meet all of your eligibility for financial aid, leaving you with an unmet need and requiring you to tap more of your family’s resources. Ask the financial aid department for its average “merit-based” (scholarships) and “need-based” financial aid award statistics, or look them up online. Merit-based awards are usually determined by the Admissions department, so it’s important to keep talking with your contacts there, too.
What You Can Control: Planning Your College-Related Expenses
The first step in preparing for a financial aid discussion is to gather your personal expenses and transportation costs. The obvious yearly college expenses are tuition, books and travel or relocation costs. These costs are on the rise for families but the “net cost” of college is actually decreasing. Get a true cost for these by itemizing them.
Beware of hidden costs, such as computers, laundry, parking, gasoline or bus fares. Costs for cell phones, entertainment, groceries, toiletries, clothing and entertainment are often underestimated. Books and supplies for some college majors cost more than others. Other easily forgotten costs include:
• Loan fees
• Study abroad costs
• Dependent care expenses
• Disability-related expenses
• Cooperative education program costs
“Free Money” Sources for College
Many students attend college at no cost; with the help of grants. Grant aid is available from a variety of providers. It’s much better to look for all the grant aid available – and especially to ask about each college’s “institutional grant” practices. Possibilities for grants and federal loans should be exhausted before you borrow money to go to school.
As mentioned, scholarships can be found at each college, but you can search for local or “special interest” scholarships for specific student groups. These may be easier to get, and are not always driven by your grades.
If the college has decided that it wants you, and understands that the costs are out of reach for you, they may offer a “tuition discount”. This practice has become more popular among private schools, as well as public universities.
After you’ve put together these expenses and reported them to your colleges, let the financial aid officer know about any “special circumstances”, especially related to recent changes in family or health status, or job losses. Colleges sometimes offer more financial aid if your family is paying for private high school tuition, nursing-home bills, or the funeral of an immediate family member.
“Independent student” status usually allows for a more generous financial aid package, but it’s only possible if the student is 24 or older, married or a parent, a soldier on active duty, a veteran, or an orphan or ward of the court. However, a “dependency override” is possible if a student has been abandoned or abused by parents.
Middle income families can realize some tax benefits. If you’re not qualified for financial aid, you can still focus on maximizing the tax advantages of saving for college, such as saving in the child's name and gifting capital-gain assets.
If costs still seem insurmountable, you could consider working while going to college. But limit it to 15-20 hours a week, if you’re in college fulltime. Otherwise, research shows that it may take you longer, and cost you more, to complete your degree. Working ten hours or less, though, has been associated with better grades in many cases! You need to keep your academic performance up to maintain or increase your financial aid award.
By law, the college must take all of your resources into account when determining your financial aid awards, including grants/loans, work eligibility or need-based loans. In some rare cases, working can actually reduce your grants or scholarships in your financial aid package. So the best policy is for you to eliminate or reduce your work or loan commitments first, before negotiating your financial aid package.
If you wind up going into the workforce first, you can keep college on your radar screen. You may be able to earn college credit for your employment and life experience. Some schools administer their own tests and standards, while others allow you to take College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests for college credit.
Contact us for help with college and career planning, academic coaching, teacher training, and resources.
Working with the Admissions Department to Budget for College
If costs are a great concern, you should inquire with the admissions department about “nontraditional”, “articulation”, “early college” programs and scholarships; all of which can reduce costs significantly.
If you’re a desirable student, due to your grades, “legacy” status or athletic record, you may have more options.
Every institution has “recruitment goals” and you might fit the profile of what it’s looking for this year; particular if you are a “first generation” or “diverse” (minority or international) student.
If you’re very clear about your major, and you have good grades, make sure you let the faculty of your future academic program know about your interest in the college. Talk with them by phone or meet with them in person, and send them an email. Then, send a copy to the admissions departments, who usually keep track of your level of “expressed interest”. This may have some influence on the admission or financial aid decisions.
Communicate with the Financial Aid Department to Maximize Your Award
Soon after the admission decision is made by the college, the financial aid award will be determined. The financial aid awards begin right after January 1, The college’s federal aid allocations start to get tapped then, so apply early for the best chance to maximize your award.
Some colleges offer a special rate if you commit early (called “Early Decision”) to attending. However, this may affect your ability to compare aid packages from several institutions.
The financial aid policy of the school could become a major factor in your final college choice. Some schools will not meet all of your eligibility for financial aid, leaving you with an unmet need and requiring you to tap more of your family’s resources. Ask the financial aid department for its average “merit-based” (scholarships) and “need-based” financial aid award statistics, or look them up online. Merit-based awards are usually determined by the Admissions department, so it’s important to keep talking with your contacts there, too.
What You Can Control: Planning Your College-Related Expenses
The first step in preparing for a financial aid discussion is to gather your personal expenses and transportation costs. The obvious yearly college expenses are tuition, books and travel or relocation costs. These costs are on the rise for families but the “net cost” of college is actually decreasing. Get a true cost for these by itemizing them.
Beware of hidden costs, such as computers, laundry, parking, gasoline or bus fares. Costs for cell phones, entertainment, groceries, toiletries, clothing and entertainment are often underestimated. Books and supplies for some college majors cost more than others. Other easily forgotten costs include:
• Loan fees
• Study abroad costs
• Dependent care expenses
• Disability-related expenses
• Cooperative education program costs
“Free Money” Sources for College
Many students attend college at no cost; with the help of grants. Grant aid is available from a variety of providers. It’s much better to look for all the grant aid available – and especially to ask about each college’s “institutional grant” practices. Possibilities for grants and federal loans should be exhausted before you borrow money to go to school.
As mentioned, scholarships can be found at each college, but you can search for local or “special interest” scholarships for specific student groups. These may be easier to get, and are not always driven by your grades.
If the college has decided that it wants you, and understands that the costs are out of reach for you, they may offer a “tuition discount”. This practice has become more popular among private schools, as well as public universities.
After you’ve put together these expenses and reported them to your colleges, let the financial aid officer know about any “special circumstances”, especially related to recent changes in family or health status, or job losses. Colleges sometimes offer more financial aid if your family is paying for private high school tuition, nursing-home bills, or the funeral of an immediate family member.
“Independent student” status usually allows for a more generous financial aid package, but it’s only possible if the student is 24 or older, married or a parent, a soldier on active duty, a veteran, or an orphan or ward of the court. However, a “dependency override” is possible if a student has been abandoned or abused by parents.
Middle income families can realize some tax benefits. If you’re not qualified for financial aid, you can still focus on maximizing the tax advantages of saving for college, such as saving in the child's name and gifting capital-gain assets.
If costs still seem insurmountable, you could consider working while going to college. But limit it to 15-20 hours a week, if you’re in college fulltime. Otherwise, research shows that it may take you longer, and cost you more, to complete your degree. Working ten hours or less, though, has been associated with better grades in many cases! You need to keep your academic performance up to maintain or increase your financial aid award.
By law, the college must take all of your resources into account when determining your financial aid awards, including grants/loans, work eligibility or need-based loans. In some rare cases, working can actually reduce your grants or scholarships in your financial aid package. So the best policy is for you to eliminate or reduce your work or loan commitments first, before negotiating your financial aid package.
If you wind up going into the workforce first, you can keep college on your radar screen. You may be able to earn college credit for your employment and life experience. Some schools administer their own tests and standards, while others allow you to take College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests for college credit.
Contact us for help with college and career planning, academic coaching, teacher training, and resources.
Friday, July 02, 2010
See the Forest AND Your "Decision Tree" for Your College and Career
One of the first big decisions you’re going to make on your own is what to do after high school. Like all major life decisions, your choices will have results: it will open the door to new opportunities. But it will also have “consequences”. How can you clearly see both the forest (the possibilities) and the trees (your choices)?
The expression “time is money” is never more true than when it comes to choices about college and work. You’ll have to walk away from other things that you might have enjoyed, and that might have been worthwhile. Going down the wrong path wastes your time, costs you money and shakes your confidence. If you’re not happy in college or work, you can always start over, but it gets increasingly expensive to do so.
The major opportunities and limits in your decision-making are easy to understand. Certain choices will be within your range of possibilities for what you’re willing to do, and what you can afford.
But what makes college and work decisions difficult are all the secondary, related questions about work and college: the tradeoffs that you have to make.
As you think about what exactly you can gain, and what exactly you will give up, to pursue your goal, you must be very specific, and the choices are less clear.
Have you answered all of these questions fully?
Is it better to work first or go right to college? (How do you define “better”?)
Should I get a two-year or four-year degree?
Can I get a two-year degree first, get a better job, and then continue my studies later for a bachelor’s degree? Will a two-year degree get me anything?
Should I live at home with my parents, get my own place or live on campus?
(What does “should” mean to you?)
Which of the colleges that I know about are the best ones? What other colleges should I consider? How can I know what college is best for me?
(What does “best” mean to you?)
Should I consider transferring from one college to another?
How can I pick a major? How can I compare the major at one college and another?
Can I handle the demands of my college studies at this school? Am I ready for college-level work? What if I do ok at first, and then it gets too tough when I’m a junior or senior? What kind of help can I get with my studies?
As you can see, these questions often lead to more questions. The answers turn out to be something like: “It depends”. And that can be frustrating and discouraging. Reflection can be lonely.
Whether you’re headed for a job or to college, an academic and career coach can help you take the fastest path toward work you love and the lifestyle you desire, to recognize your progress, stay encouraged. If you’re highly motivated, you can create a decision process for yourself, too. Either way, as you proceed through this exciting passage in life, remember:
1. Good answers to the right questions will come to you when you take the quality time needed to explore them fully, do some research, and then reflect.
2. Making effective decisions will build your confidence and motivation.
3. Research shows that confidence leads to success in school and work.
Finding your future happiness is worth the effort. YOU”RE worth the effort.
Good answers to the right questions are really what will get you to your life’s goals most quickly. Contact me for coaching help with answering the right questions.
The expression “time is money” is never more true than when it comes to choices about college and work. You’ll have to walk away from other things that you might have enjoyed, and that might have been worthwhile. Going down the wrong path wastes your time, costs you money and shakes your confidence. If you’re not happy in college or work, you can always start over, but it gets increasingly expensive to do so.
The major opportunities and limits in your decision-making are easy to understand. Certain choices will be within your range of possibilities for what you’re willing to do, and what you can afford.
But what makes college and work decisions difficult are all the secondary, related questions about work and college: the tradeoffs that you have to make.
As you think about what exactly you can gain, and what exactly you will give up, to pursue your goal, you must be very specific, and the choices are less clear.
Have you answered all of these questions fully?
Is it better to work first or go right to college? (How do you define “better”?)
Should I get a two-year or four-year degree?
Can I get a two-year degree first, get a better job, and then continue my studies later for a bachelor’s degree? Will a two-year degree get me anything?
Should I live at home with my parents, get my own place or live on campus?
(What does “should” mean to you?)
Which of the colleges that I know about are the best ones? What other colleges should I consider? How can I know what college is best for me?
(What does “best” mean to you?)
Should I consider transferring from one college to another?
How can I pick a major? How can I compare the major at one college and another?
Can I handle the demands of my college studies at this school? Am I ready for college-level work? What if I do ok at first, and then it gets too tough when I’m a junior or senior? What kind of help can I get with my studies?
As you can see, these questions often lead to more questions. The answers turn out to be something like: “It depends”. And that can be frustrating and discouraging. Reflection can be lonely.
Whether you’re headed for a job or to college, an academic and career coach can help you take the fastest path toward work you love and the lifestyle you desire, to recognize your progress, stay encouraged. If you’re highly motivated, you can create a decision process for yourself, too. Either way, as you proceed through this exciting passage in life, remember:
1. Good answers to the right questions will come to you when you take the quality time needed to explore them fully, do some research, and then reflect.
2. Making effective decisions will build your confidence and motivation.
3. Research shows that confidence leads to success in school and work.
Finding your future happiness is worth the effort. YOU”RE worth the effort.
Good answers to the right questions are really what will get you to your life’s goals most quickly. Contact me for coaching help with answering the right questions.
Thursday, July 01, 2010
College Major “Clusters”: A Straight-Away Path to Job Planning
According to some experts, high-demand jobs tend to come from a few “college major clusters”; only about 15% of all majors offered. While there are over 300 college majors to choose from, available within 3000 colleges, ultimately leading to over 30,000 job titles, it’s no wonder that so many college-bound students and parents are overwhelmed.
Money isn’t everything, but employability will probably rank high in your mind when you choose a major. Your major won’t get you a job outright, but having it on your resume with a favorable grade point average sends a signal to employers that you’ve got what it takes to do the job successfully.
Your choice of major, though, has some influence on your options in the job market. Down the road, when you choose a related career field in which to pursue a job, you’ll also consider the lifestyle, work conditions, salary, advancement opportunities, and even your own interests.
In the field of academic advising, “college major clusters” are broad categories of academic interest. Getting familiar with “college major clusters” will help you zero in on field of study and improve your chances off success in your academics AND your eventual career. Through surveys or reflection, you can find out what clusters you fit into.
If you’re undecided about your major, it’s a good idea to start by identifying around four clusters. According to Michael Voillt’s “Great Colleges for the Real World,” examples of college majors clusters with high-demand jobs are: “applied quantitative”, “analytical/computational” and “quantitative”.
College majors themselves are more specific so you’ll have to do some research. Look carefully at the coursework. Talk to the professors who teach the classes during your college visit or on the phone. Ask to see the textbook and syllabus. Consider carefully if you can, and want to, do what’s required to good grades in this major and graduate on time.
To get you started, here is a list of 100 descriptions of majors. Try to get down to five majors by a process of rank ordering your preferences. Friends or family could make suggestions based on the list that falls under each of the clusters you identified. Remember that quite a few majors will be compatible with your career interests. But some majors are lead to a very specific occupation (like pre-med or pre-law)..
Picking the major is just the first step. You still have to evaluate the jobs that are associated with it. Will you be successful? If the tasks of the job appeal to you, and the lifestyle fits your needs, again, your chances of success are greatest. But that’s another article!
Here is a neat site that shows the career options that connect with majors at University of Tennessee, including potential employers, specializations and strategies for your plan of study.
Bottom line: Careful planning and reflection when you choose a particular college’s program will pay off. Making the right choices will motivate you and your confidence will grow even more as you succeed in your coursework. And that confidence will lead to success in the workplace.
Contact me at http://www.whatsyourmajor.netfor personal coaching for academic and career success!
Money isn’t everything, but employability will probably rank high in your mind when you choose a major. Your major won’t get you a job outright, but having it on your resume with a favorable grade point average sends a signal to employers that you’ve got what it takes to do the job successfully.
Your choice of major, though, has some influence on your options in the job market. Down the road, when you choose a related career field in which to pursue a job, you’ll also consider the lifestyle, work conditions, salary, advancement opportunities, and even your own interests.
In the field of academic advising, “college major clusters” are broad categories of academic interest. Getting familiar with “college major clusters” will help you zero in on field of study and improve your chances off success in your academics AND your eventual career. Through surveys or reflection, you can find out what clusters you fit into.
If you’re undecided about your major, it’s a good idea to start by identifying around four clusters. According to Michael Voillt’s “Great Colleges for the Real World,” examples of college majors clusters with high-demand jobs are: “applied quantitative”, “analytical/computational” and “quantitative”.
College majors themselves are more specific so you’ll have to do some research. Look carefully at the coursework. Talk to the professors who teach the classes during your college visit or on the phone. Ask to see the textbook and syllabus. Consider carefully if you can, and want to, do what’s required to good grades in this major and graduate on time.
To get you started, here is a list of 100 descriptions of majors. Try to get down to five majors by a process of rank ordering your preferences. Friends or family could make suggestions based on the list that falls under each of the clusters you identified. Remember that quite a few majors will be compatible with your career interests. But some majors are lead to a very specific occupation (like pre-med or pre-law)..
Picking the major is just the first step. You still have to evaluate the jobs that are associated with it. Will you be successful? If the tasks of the job appeal to you, and the lifestyle fits your needs, again, your chances of success are greatest. But that’s another article!
Here is a neat site that shows the career options that connect with majors at University of Tennessee, including potential employers, specializations and strategies for your plan of study.
Bottom line: Careful planning and reflection when you choose a particular college’s program will pay off. Making the right choices will motivate you and your confidence will grow even more as you succeed in your coursework. And that confidence will lead to success in the workplace.
Contact me at http://www.whatsyourmajor.netfor personal coaching for academic and career success!
Friday, June 25, 2010
It’s Decision Time! Tips from Smart Shoppers about Choosing a College
The smartest college shoppers (meaning, students who are picking a college), might just be those who have experience and those who conduct research that is beyond the typical agenda of a campus visit.
Here are some tips from the trenches:
As I’ve reminded readers many times, many students aren’t sure about their major. In a perfect world, you’d pick a college based on the quality of a particular academic program and the quality of life you expect to experience on campus. But even if you’re “extremely” or “very” certain about your major and how much you like the campus, yes, even you could change your mind.
Be proactive when visiting a college.
You won’t find all the critical information about a college in a brochure. And you may have to ask for favors beyond what the typical campus visit offers. Call ahead and see if you can accomplish as much of this as possible during the visit:
College shopping at its best is “qualitative research”. You can only find out by asking the right questions to faculty and students. How you feel after the visit is going to be the main influence on your final decision. Record your impressions and key data points. How you feel may even outweigh your financial considerations.
First, conduct in-depth research on the faculty in your major:
Talk to several faculty of your chosen program. If you’re going to a research-driven university, which can be an unparalleled learning opportunity, find out about the teaching philosophy of the instructors of the upper level required classes in your major. If the instructors are absorbed by their research projects, will you be able to assist them? How do they make themselves available to advisees who need career help?
There can be a big difference between an instructor who teaches from the basis of their own practical experience in the field, versus one who is a research scholar, and both have positive attributes. Maybe the right situation for you is to have a blend of such instructors available.
If they aren’t around during your campus visit, call them later. Ask them about the teaching and learning styles in their classroom. A college is a collection of individuals; and instructors are no different.
Second, seek out students and specific classes:
Is this campus more collaborative or competitive? Every college has a campus culture that influences the classroom. The learning styles of students – the “norms”, if you will – can be very different in different majors. Seek out junior and senior students in your interest areas. Ask them for examples of typical classroom experiences. Don’t let them generalize. Ask them to describe a recent class they attended.
Every college offers a chance to sit in on a class. Ask to visit the classes of particular instructors who are legendary among their students. What are their teaching methods: straight lecture, experiential or both? Ask to see the syllabus for the class. This is the best way to see for yourself what makes THIS academic program at THIS college special.
Another data point to ask for:
Students who “transfer in” to a college after starting somewhere else might be the smartest shoppers of all! What can we learn from them? If a college as a higher-than-average rate of transfer-in students, something good could be going on. Ask the admissions folks for this data and an opportunity to talk to a transfer-in student.
Contact me for workshops and coaching on student success and career planning.
Here are some tips from the trenches:
As I’ve reminded readers many times, many students aren’t sure about their major. In a perfect world, you’d pick a college based on the quality of a particular academic program and the quality of life you expect to experience on campus. But even if you’re “extremely” or “very” certain about your major and how much you like the campus, yes, even you could change your mind.
Be proactive when visiting a college.
You won’t find all the critical information about a college in a brochure. And you may have to ask for favors beyond what the typical campus visit offers. Call ahead and see if you can accomplish as much of this as possible during the visit:
College shopping at its best is “qualitative research”. You can only find out by asking the right questions to faculty and students. How you feel after the visit is going to be the main influence on your final decision. Record your impressions and key data points. How you feel may even outweigh your financial considerations.
First, conduct in-depth research on the faculty in your major:
Talk to several faculty of your chosen program. If you’re going to a research-driven university, which can be an unparalleled learning opportunity, find out about the teaching philosophy of the instructors of the upper level required classes in your major. If the instructors are absorbed by their research projects, will you be able to assist them? How do they make themselves available to advisees who need career help?
There can be a big difference between an instructor who teaches from the basis of their own practical experience in the field, versus one who is a research scholar, and both have positive attributes. Maybe the right situation for you is to have a blend of such instructors available.
If they aren’t around during your campus visit, call them later. Ask them about the teaching and learning styles in their classroom. A college is a collection of individuals; and instructors are no different.
Second, seek out students and specific classes:
Is this campus more collaborative or competitive? Every college has a campus culture that influences the classroom. The learning styles of students – the “norms”, if you will – can be very different in different majors. Seek out junior and senior students in your interest areas. Ask them for examples of typical classroom experiences. Don’t let them generalize. Ask them to describe a recent class they attended.
Every college offers a chance to sit in on a class. Ask to visit the classes of particular instructors who are legendary among their students. What are their teaching methods: straight lecture, experiential or both? Ask to see the syllabus for the class. This is the best way to see for yourself what makes THIS academic program at THIS college special.
Another data point to ask for:
Students who “transfer in” to a college after starting somewhere else might be the smartest shoppers of all! What can we learn from them? If a college as a higher-than-average rate of transfer-in students, something good could be going on. Ask the admissions folks for this data and an opportunity to talk to a transfer-in student.
Contact me for workshops and coaching on student success and career planning.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
The Yellow Brick Road of Career Planning: Four Tips to Get You Out of the Muck and Back on the Path
Students: Do you ever feel like you’re stuck in Oz, searching for the Wizard?
Someone who can help you make the best decision about your career?
What’s most important, anyway?
Best-selling career books will encourage you to think about any number of things:
- the emerging “green” jobs
- the international job landscape
- the trades
- your personality
- job security
- the healthcare industry
- the service economy
- job security
- the IT industry
So with all this advice about good opportunities, how do you finally decide where to start?
First, realize that almost half of college students switch majors; at least once. The best planning can’t account for “happenstance”. In other words, along the “yellow brick road”, you’re going to meet people and experience things that will change your thinking about jobs. And that’s a good thing.
Second, don’t let your career indecision drive you into debt. Take a pause, if necessary, to get clarity; especially if you’re a junior or senior and still really uncertain about your major. The longer you take to find a major that fits; the longer it may take you to get a job in that field; if that’s your expectation.
Third, get some help! Where?
If you’re a college student:
Go to the career center of your college, talk to your advisor AND another faculty member you respect about what recent graduates in the major are doing; what their job titles are and what career paths they’ve taken. The more talking you do, the more information you’ll gather.
If you’re a high school graduate, but not a college student:
Get the same kind of advice from a “one-stop” employment center. They offer assessments and advising at a very low cost; and sometimes, no cost, depending on your circumstances. If you can afford it, find a career coach (someone like me). They help you fact-find, set realistic goals and keep you on track. Many coaches offer a sliding fee scale, making this service very affordable.
Fourth, get some field experience:
An internship (paid or unpaid) -- or a series of informational interviews, professional association meetings, networks on Linked In, job shadows, or lunch dates, with people in jobs that you find intriguing.
Maybe you could spring for coffee or lunch; although many people will gladly “go Dutch” in the interest of helping a young person get started in a career. Everyone likes to talk about themselves; including the details about their successes and failures. It’s human nature!
Contact me for more help. Your first in-person or phone coaching session is free.
Someone who can help you make the best decision about your career?
What’s most important, anyway?
Best-selling career books will encourage you to think about any number of things:
- the emerging “green” jobs
- the international job landscape
- the trades
- your personality
- job security
- the healthcare industry
- the service economy
- job security
- the IT industry
So with all this advice about good opportunities, how do you finally decide where to start?
First, realize that almost half of college students switch majors; at least once. The best planning can’t account for “happenstance”. In other words, along the “yellow brick road”, you’re going to meet people and experience things that will change your thinking about jobs. And that’s a good thing.
Second, don’t let your career indecision drive you into debt. Take a pause, if necessary, to get clarity; especially if you’re a junior or senior and still really uncertain about your major. The longer you take to find a major that fits; the longer it may take you to get a job in that field; if that’s your expectation.
Third, get some help! Where?
If you’re a college student:
Go to the career center of your college, talk to your advisor AND another faculty member you respect about what recent graduates in the major are doing; what their job titles are and what career paths they’ve taken. The more talking you do, the more information you’ll gather.
If you’re a high school graduate, but not a college student:
Get the same kind of advice from a “one-stop” employment center. They offer assessments and advising at a very low cost; and sometimes, no cost, depending on your circumstances. If you can afford it, find a career coach (someone like me). They help you fact-find, set realistic goals and keep you on track. Many coaches offer a sliding fee scale, making this service very affordable.
Fourth, get some field experience:
An internship (paid or unpaid) -- or a series of informational interviews, professional association meetings, networks on Linked In, job shadows, or lunch dates, with people in jobs that you find intriguing.
Maybe you could spring for coffee or lunch; although many people will gladly “go Dutch” in the interest of helping a young person get started in a career. Everyone likes to talk about themselves; including the details about their successes and failures. It’s human nature!
Contact me for more help. Your first in-person or phone coaching session is free.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Stuff Happens! Be Open When Choosing Your College Major
With 3000 colleges to choose from, you’ll certainly find a “match” for your lifestyle preferences, what you can afford, and the academic rigor. And there are plenty of books and counselors who can help you find a college that “fits”.
But once you’re at college, your decision about your major is your next hurdle. Even if you have chosen a major, you should verify your decision as a freshman or sophomore.
And one thing is sure: What you think is going to happen to school, won’t.
I coached a seventeen-year-old young lady this week, bound for Tufts University. Kaitlyn is very focused on majoring in biomedical engineering and took all the AP classes she could. In our “Wheel of Life” exercise, she really didn’t want to talk about her career direction; and was sure that this was already taken care of. She’s motivated and focused.
During our coaching session, I was plagued by a question: “Can Kaitlyn really know what’s going to happen when she gets to college?” So I asked her: “Kaitlyn, how open are you to new ideas about your field of study?”
Kaitlyn’s thinking could certainly change once she makes new friends with different ideas. And most colleges offer unique courses, even in the core program, with professors who can inspire and challenge your thinking.
With so many college majors -- and so many job titles -- out there (over 31,000!), you’re doing yourself a disservice if you get too focused too soon.
Freshmen and sophomore college students find themselves torn between finding a major that gets them a good-paying, reasonably secure job; and one that promises real, personal satisfaction.
Furthermore, the real connection between college majors and job titles is fuzzy, at best.
What To Do??
To make a “happy” decision about your college majors, you must know the facts, and know yourself as well. Talk to anyone you know who is in a satisfying job and ask him or her how they made decisions.
And do you own fact-finding; either by yourself, or with a career coach. You’ll have to:
1. Connect the college major with a career area, and then a job title.
2. Think about the job prospects: salary, growth, number of openings and where to find the jobs. (In my previous posts, I talked about the Occupational Outlook Handbook as the source for this information.)
3. Put your SELF first. Reflect often: What types of things do you like to do? WHY do you like to do them? What type of environment would be fun to work in, and what type of people would be cool to work with? What’s important to you?
I’ve talked about career clusters and how to find the fit between you and the World of Work. So remember:
• Your personality is likely to stay constant over the years, but your values could change.
• Most of your interests (abilities and skills) TRANSFER to job skills but you may have to think CREATIVELY about them.
What’s Your Major? coaching and workshops can guide and encourage you through the process. We also offer academic coaching to help you build social and emotional intelligence; and creative and critical and leadership skills: the skills that employers value most when hiring. We’re affiliated with LifeBound, and offer many resources for middle, high and college students, on our site.
You can do much of this research on your own. However, a coach will help you extend your thinking and stay accountable to your goals.
A workbook like Ed Colozzi’s Creating Careers with Confidence presents a thorough and methodical approach. You’ll have to make some trade-offs along the way to come up with a practical college and work plan. The challenge is that there are so many choices. But that’s the good news, too.
Several good guides can help you start the conversation about college majors:
Michael P. Voillt’s College Majors that Work
Paul Phifer’s College Majors and Careers
Laurence Shatkin’s Quick Guide to College Majors and Careers and 50 Best Majors for a Secure Future
Terry Ward’s Major Decisions: A Guide to College Majors
Contact me for personal help with your academic skills and career plans!
But once you’re at college, your decision about your major is your next hurdle. Even if you have chosen a major, you should verify your decision as a freshman or sophomore.
And one thing is sure: What you think is going to happen to school, won’t.
I coached a seventeen-year-old young lady this week, bound for Tufts University. Kaitlyn is very focused on majoring in biomedical engineering and took all the AP classes she could. In our “Wheel of Life” exercise, she really didn’t want to talk about her career direction; and was sure that this was already taken care of. She’s motivated and focused.
During our coaching session, I was plagued by a question: “Can Kaitlyn really know what’s going to happen when she gets to college?” So I asked her: “Kaitlyn, how open are you to new ideas about your field of study?”
Kaitlyn’s thinking could certainly change once she makes new friends with different ideas. And most colleges offer unique courses, even in the core program, with professors who can inspire and challenge your thinking.
With so many college majors -- and so many job titles -- out there (over 31,000!), you’re doing yourself a disservice if you get too focused too soon.
Freshmen and sophomore college students find themselves torn between finding a major that gets them a good-paying, reasonably secure job; and one that promises real, personal satisfaction.
Furthermore, the real connection between college majors and job titles is fuzzy, at best.
What To Do??
To make a “happy” decision about your college majors, you must know the facts, and know yourself as well. Talk to anyone you know who is in a satisfying job and ask him or her how they made decisions.
And do you own fact-finding; either by yourself, or with a career coach. You’ll have to:
1. Connect the college major with a career area, and then a job title.
2. Think about the job prospects: salary, growth, number of openings and where to find the jobs. (In my previous posts, I talked about the Occupational Outlook Handbook as the source for this information.)
3. Put your SELF first. Reflect often: What types of things do you like to do? WHY do you like to do them? What type of environment would be fun to work in, and what type of people would be cool to work with? What’s important to you?
I’ve talked about career clusters and how to find the fit between you and the World of Work. So remember:
• Your personality is likely to stay constant over the years, but your values could change.
• Most of your interests (abilities and skills) TRANSFER to job skills but you may have to think CREATIVELY about them.
What’s Your Major? coaching and workshops can guide and encourage you through the process. We also offer academic coaching to help you build social and emotional intelligence; and creative and critical and leadership skills: the skills that employers value most when hiring. We’re affiliated with LifeBound, and offer many resources for middle, high and college students, on our site.
You can do much of this research on your own. However, a coach will help you extend your thinking and stay accountable to your goals.
A workbook like Ed Colozzi’s Creating Careers with Confidence presents a thorough and methodical approach. You’ll have to make some trade-offs along the way to come up with a practical college and work plan. The challenge is that there are so many choices. But that’s the good news, too.
Several good guides can help you start the conversation about college majors:
Michael P. Voillt’s College Majors that Work
Paul Phifer’s College Majors and Careers
Laurence Shatkin’s Quick Guide to College Majors and Careers and 50 Best Majors for a Secure Future
Terry Ward’s Major Decisions: A Guide to College Majors
Contact me for personal help with your academic skills and career plans!
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Six Ways to Be Strategic with Your Internship Search
An internship is supposed to help you enter the workforce with a likelihood of success and happiness. So don't treat it like "any old" part-time job search!
Plan ahead and develop an internship strategy. The first time, you could invest a few months into research, reflection and planning. If you do this once, you'll be able to do it faster the next time. Finding the right internship is like a real job search. You must match your skills and learning need to the employer's needs. And you have to be good at demonstrating that match in an interview.
So, to make an internship meaningful, don't wait until the last minute. You can get help from several resources below, but be prepared to do all of the leg work yourself.
1. Think about your long-term goals. What type of company of industry would you like to work in? What area of a company are you looking to get experience in? What type of duties would related to your long-term career goal?
2. If you're a college student, work with your faculty or advisor to put together a list of typical job functions, Many internship dutueis are negotiable for the top candidates.
3. Do some online research about the top employers in your area. Learn about their missions, business focus and news. Find the employers' annual reports on their web sites. Read the Chairman's Lettera to learn about the companies' current plans, successes and challenges.
4. Post your resume on the employers' sites. Include a career objective with keywords on your resume. Employers often look here first when searching for candidates.
5. Create a new job alert on sites like jobs.nuAlerts, nuResume, Indeed, SimplyHired, and Jobster. Answer the basic questions, select your areas of interest and join your favorite employers’ networks.
6. Professional associations are always looking to students to get involved as volunteers or in competitions. Attending their local functions as a visitor will get you direct exposure to hiring managers. Ask your college faculty which professional associations are most popular with specific employers in your area.
The more knowledge you have about the company and its goals; and the better you'll be to prove your fit for the job in your cover letter, get selected for an inteview, and convince the employer that you're the right person for the job!
Plan ahead and develop an internship strategy. The first time, you could invest a few months into research, reflection and planning. If you do this once, you'll be able to do it faster the next time. Finding the right internship is like a real job search. You must match your skills and learning need to the employer's needs. And you have to be good at demonstrating that match in an interview.
So, to make an internship meaningful, don't wait until the last minute. You can get help from several resources below, but be prepared to do all of the leg work yourself.
1. Think about your long-term goals. What type of company of industry would you like to work in? What area of a company are you looking to get experience in? What type of duties would related to your long-term career goal?
2. If you're a college student, work with your faculty or advisor to put together a list of typical job functions, Many internship dutueis are negotiable for the top candidates.
3. Do some online research about the top employers in your area. Learn about their missions, business focus and news. Find the employers' annual reports on their web sites. Read the Chairman's Lettera to learn about the companies' current plans, successes and challenges.
4. Post your resume on the employers' sites. Include a career objective with keywords on your resume. Employers often look here first when searching for candidates.
5. Create a new job alert on sites like jobs.nuAlerts, nuResume, Indeed, SimplyHired, and Jobster. Answer the basic questions, select your areas of interest and join your favorite employers’ networks.
6. Professional associations are always looking to students to get involved as volunteers or in competitions. Attending their local functions as a visitor will get you direct exposure to hiring managers. Ask your college faculty which professional associations are most popular with specific employers in your area.
The more knowledge you have about the company and its goals; and the better you'll be to prove your fit for the job in your cover letter, get selected for an inteview, and convince the employer that you're the right person for the job!
Monday, November 23, 2009
Graduate Assistantships and College Teaching Jobs: Stop-Gap Employment and Career Step-Up for Any Master's Degree
Opportunities in part-time college teaching and college teaching assistantships are growing significantly. Best of all, any master’s degree holder could qualify.
On the up side, college teaching jobs nationwide are expected to grow 22.9% through 2016. The pay isn’t high; beginning wages are only $15,660 and median annual earnings are $28,060.* But remember, this is usually part-time.
If you have a graduate assistantship, you’d be expected to be enrolled fulltime in the institution’s graduate study program. Assistantships frequently offer discounted tuition if you are pursuing a graduate degree. So career changers and “student scholars” should take this option seriously. Actual salaries range significantly by the type of institution: national, state or private; large or small.
However, before investing yourself into this career direction, you need to be strategic in looking into whether your field, and your geographic region, does indeed present these opportunities. The most likely opportunities in your area will be in colleges and universities that have high-growth, “big” (large enrollment) programs or those that offer a well-established career-technical or professional development tracks, like a certificate program.
Researching college teaching jobs take time and thoughtful self-evaluation. What’s your long-range goal? To teach? To change careers? Those questions are likely to come up in interviews. You might be expected to write a “Statement of Teaching Philosophy” when you apply. And if you’ve never taught before, you should think about what your teaching philosophy will be, and why; as well as talk to experienced professors to understand the issues in higher education teaching today.
Teaching assistants assist a department chairperson, faculty and professional staff by teaching lower-level courses and preparing course materials and examinations and participating in research.*
Adjunct and part-time college teaching opportunities are often sporadic (based on the current course enrollment and other course planning issues). The pay rate is "by the course". If you think you'd love teaching, you should pursue teaching a class, reflect on the experience, and then decide if you would want to stay in the profession. Then, networking with the department faculty and staff at each college is the best way to get on the list of part-timers. Your career as a college teacher may grow slowly, but if you've taking it this far, it's likely to be very satisfying in the long-run.
“The Teaching Professor” blog and web site is a great resource for learning about the realities of college teaching.
* Source: “50 Best College Majors for a Secure Future” by Laurence Shatkin.
On the up side, college teaching jobs nationwide are expected to grow 22.9% through 2016. The pay isn’t high; beginning wages are only $15,660 and median annual earnings are $28,060.* But remember, this is usually part-time.
If you have a graduate assistantship, you’d be expected to be enrolled fulltime in the institution’s graduate study program. Assistantships frequently offer discounted tuition if you are pursuing a graduate degree. So career changers and “student scholars” should take this option seriously. Actual salaries range significantly by the type of institution: national, state or private; large or small.
However, before investing yourself into this career direction, you need to be strategic in looking into whether your field, and your geographic region, does indeed present these opportunities. The most likely opportunities in your area will be in colleges and universities that have high-growth, “big” (large enrollment) programs or those that offer a well-established career-technical or professional development tracks, like a certificate program.
Researching college teaching jobs take time and thoughtful self-evaluation. What’s your long-range goal? To teach? To change careers? Those questions are likely to come up in interviews. You might be expected to write a “Statement of Teaching Philosophy” when you apply. And if you’ve never taught before, you should think about what your teaching philosophy will be, and why; as well as talk to experienced professors to understand the issues in higher education teaching today.
Teaching assistants assist a department chairperson, faculty and professional staff by teaching lower-level courses and preparing course materials and examinations and participating in research.*
Adjunct and part-time college teaching opportunities are often sporadic (based on the current course enrollment and other course planning issues). The pay rate is "by the course". If you think you'd love teaching, you should pursue teaching a class, reflect on the experience, and then decide if you would want to stay in the profession. Then, networking with the department faculty and staff at each college is the best way to get on the list of part-timers. Your career as a college teacher may grow slowly, but if you've taking it this far, it's likely to be very satisfying in the long-run.
“The Teaching Professor” blog and web site is a great resource for learning about the realities of college teaching.
* Source: “50 Best College Majors for a Secure Future” by Laurence Shatkin.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Series: High-Demand College Majors in Ohio, Part 4: Pharmacist
Jobs for pharmacists are expected to grow 21.7% nationwide through 2016, although slower in Ohio at 15%. The greatest number of openings will be in social assistance and the non-store retail industries.
Average starting salary is $73.010 and median annual earnings are $100,480, which depends on length of experience, geographic location and employer.
In Ohio, The University of Toledo offers a program in Pharmaceutical Sciences: http://bit.ly/3BNfmo Specialization is possible in three distinct disciplines: Pharmacology/Toxicology, Pharmacy Administration, and Industrial Pharmacy.
Pharmacists compound and dispense medications, using prescriptions from physicians, dentists or other practitioners.
In Ohio, there are about 330 openings for pharmacists each year. By 2016, employment is expected to grow 15% to reach 11,540 jobs.
Sources:
The College Board
“50 Best College Majors for a Secure Future” by Lawrence Shatkin.
http://www.projectionscentral.com/lt_search.aspx
Average starting salary is $73.010 and median annual earnings are $100,480, which depends on length of experience, geographic location and employer.
In Ohio, The University of Toledo offers a program in Pharmaceutical Sciences: http://bit.ly/3BNfmo Specialization is possible in three distinct disciplines: Pharmacology/Toxicology, Pharmacy Administration, and Industrial Pharmacy.
Pharmacists compound and dispense medications, using prescriptions from physicians, dentists or other practitioners.
In Ohio, there are about 330 openings for pharmacists each year. By 2016, employment is expected to grow 15% to reach 11,540 jobs.
Sources:
The College Board
“50 Best College Majors for a Secure Future” by Lawrence Shatkin.
http://www.projectionscentral.com/lt_search.aspx
Friday, November 13, 2009
Series: High-Demand College Majors in Ohio, Part 3: Physical Therapist
Jobs for physical therapists are expected to grow 27.1% through 2016, with the largest openings in acute hospitalization, rehabilitation and orthopedic settings.
Average starting salary is $48,530 and median annual earnings are $69,760, which depends on length of experience, geographic location and employer.
Schools must be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). Schools in Ohio that offer a program in Physical Therapy are:
Cleveland State University (A4, D6, F1, PU)
College of Mount St Joseph (A2, A4, D6, F1, PR)
Ohio University (A4, D6, F1, PU)
The Ohio State University (A4, D6, F1, PU)
The University of Findlay (A1, A6, D6, E3, F3, PR)
University of Cincinnati (A1, A4, D6, E5, F1, PU)
University of Dayton (A4, D6, F1, PR)
University of Toledo (D6, D7, F1, PU)
Walsh University (A4, D6, F1, PR)
Youngstown State University (D6, F1, PU)
Physical therapists improve mobility, relieve pain, increase strength and decrease or prevent deformity from disease on injury. Ambulatory health care service providers are expected to provide the greatest job growth through 2016 (44.2%).
In Ohio, there are about 250 for physical therapists each year. By 2016, employment is expected to reach 8510 jobs.
Sources:
www.apta.org
The College Board
“50 Best College Majors for a Secure Future” by Lawrence Shatkin.
http://www.projectionscentral.com/lt_search.aspx
Average starting salary is $48,530 and median annual earnings are $69,760, which depends on length of experience, geographic location and employer.
Schools must be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). Schools in Ohio that offer a program in Physical Therapy are:
Cleveland State University (A4, D6, F1, PU)
College of Mount St Joseph (A2, A4, D6, F1, PR)
Ohio University (A4, D6, F1, PU)
The Ohio State University (A4, D6, F1, PU)
The University of Findlay (A1, A6, D6, E3, F3, PR)
University of Cincinnati (A1, A4, D6, E5, F1, PU)
University of Dayton (A4, D6, F1, PR)
University of Toledo (D6, D7, F1, PU)
Walsh University (A4, D6, F1, PR)
Youngstown State University (D6, F1, PU)
Physical therapists improve mobility, relieve pain, increase strength and decrease or prevent deformity from disease on injury. Ambulatory health care service providers are expected to provide the greatest job growth through 2016 (44.2%).
In Ohio, there are about 250 for physical therapists each year. By 2016, employment is expected to reach 8510 jobs.
Sources:
www.apta.org
The College Board
“50 Best College Majors for a Secure Future” by Lawrence Shatkin.
http://www.projectionscentral.com/lt_search.aspx
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Series: High-Demand College Majors in Ohio - Registered Nurses
The nursing field is going to be on the rise for some time to come; 23.5% growth is expected through 2016. The average starting salary is $42,020 with median annual earnings of $60,010.
RNs with a bachelor’s degree have better job security than those without one. Four advanced specializations: clinical nurse specialists, nurse practitioners, nurse mid-wives and nurse anesthetists, who serve as primary care providers, are in highest demand. These specializations require post-basic education.*
There are 69 RN nursing programs in Ohio. Seven of them are in the Cleveland area:
Bryant & Stratton College, Parma
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland State University
Cuyahoga Community College, Metro and Western campuses
Lorain County Community College
Ursuline College
Typical duties include:
- Monitor, record and report patient symptoms and changes in patient conditions.
- Maintain accurate, detailed patient records and reports.
- Record patient medical information and vital signs.
- Many others!
In Ohio, there are about 4430 openings for registered nurses every year. By 2016, employment is expected to reach 138,640.**
* “50 Best College Majors for a Secure Future” by Lawrence Shatkin.
** http://www.projectionscentral.com/lt_search.aspx
RNs with a bachelor’s degree have better job security than those without one. Four advanced specializations: clinical nurse specialists, nurse practitioners, nurse mid-wives and nurse anesthetists, who serve as primary care providers, are in highest demand. These specializations require post-basic education.*
There are 69 RN nursing programs in Ohio. Seven of them are in the Cleveland area:
Bryant & Stratton College, Parma
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland State University
Cuyahoga Community College, Metro and Western campuses
Lorain County Community College
Ursuline College
Typical duties include:
- Monitor, record and report patient symptoms and changes in patient conditions.
- Maintain accurate, detailed patient records and reports.
- Record patient medical information and vital signs.
- Many others!
In Ohio, there are about 4430 openings for registered nurses every year. By 2016, employment is expected to reach 138,640.**
* “50 Best College Majors for a Secure Future” by Lawrence Shatkin.
** http://www.projectionscentral.com/lt_search.aspx
Monday, November 09, 2009
Series: High-Demand College Majors in Ohio - Physician Assistant
You can land a well-paid, high-demand job as a physician’s assistant by first attending a school accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant*.
This is a high-growth job with 27% growth expected through 2016. Average starting salary is $46,750 and median annual earnings are $78, 450**.
Schools accredited in Ohio are:
Cuyahoga Community College / Cleveland State University
Kettering College Of Medical Arts
Marietta College
Medical University of Ohio at Toledo
Mount Union College (*provisional)
University Of Findlay
Physician assistants diagnose and treat medical problems. Program applicants are usually required to have previous health care experience and some college education. The typical applicant already has a bachelor's degree and about four years of health care experience. Nurses, EMTs, and paramedics often apply to the programs. Continued education is required after graduation. ***
In Ohio, there are about 60 openings for physician assistants every year. By 2016, employment is expected to reach 1950 jobs.****
* Princeton Review
** “50 Best College Majors for a Secure Future” by Lawrence Shatkin.
*** http://www.aapa.org/education-and-certification/physician-assistant-programs
**** http://www.projectionscentral.com/lt_search.aspx
For more information, contact jill@whatsyourmajor.net
This is a high-growth job with 27% growth expected through 2016. Average starting salary is $46,750 and median annual earnings are $78, 450**.
Schools accredited in Ohio are:
Cuyahoga Community College / Cleveland State University
Kettering College Of Medical Arts
Marietta College
Medical University of Ohio at Toledo
Mount Union College (*provisional)
University Of Findlay
Physician assistants diagnose and treat medical problems. Program applicants are usually required to have previous health care experience and some college education. The typical applicant already has a bachelor's degree and about four years of health care experience. Nurses, EMTs, and paramedics often apply to the programs. Continued education is required after graduation. ***
In Ohio, there are about 60 openings for physician assistants every year. By 2016, employment is expected to reach 1950 jobs.****
* Princeton Review
** “50 Best College Majors for a Secure Future” by Lawrence Shatkin.
*** http://www.aapa.org/education-and-certification/physician-assistant-programs
**** http://www.projectionscentral.com/lt_search.aspx
For more information, contact jill@whatsyourmajor.net
Saturday, November 07, 2009
Three Questions to Ask Yourself to Find a College Major and Lasting Employment
Finding a college major that will result in a long-term job requires you to set a criteria:
1. Are you looking for a major where you have a good chance of being hired in your region; jobs that are high in number or growing fast?
Or, is salary more important to your definition of security?
Once you think about those questions, then set your criteria for your perfect college:
2. Should it be local? Lowest cost possible?
3. Now, before going further, take a pause. What will really make you happy while in college? And then, later, when on the job? What type of lifestyle are you looking for from both situations? What do you value? What type of students and coworkers, and school and work setting, study topics and duties will get you excited?
These questions aren’t at all easy to answer. First job experiences and networking are ways to help you answer them. But if you’re willing to research your opportunities thoroughly before making a decision, you’ll have a better chance of making the right choices.
When you’ve answered these questions, it’s time to start shopping for colleges and jobs. The following resources will help you zero in on a major and job, the job opportunities in your region, and the colleges in your region that offer the right major:
“50 Best College Majors for a Secure Future”, by Lawrence Shatkin
College Matchmaker search engine from The College Board
The Occupation Outlook search for job titles and growth projections in your region
For more help, email jill@whatsyourmajor.net
1. Are you looking for a major where you have a good chance of being hired in your region; jobs that are high in number or growing fast?
Or, is salary more important to your definition of security?
Once you think about those questions, then set your criteria for your perfect college:
2. Should it be local? Lowest cost possible?
3. Now, before going further, take a pause. What will really make you happy while in college? And then, later, when on the job? What type of lifestyle are you looking for from both situations? What do you value? What type of students and coworkers, and school and work setting, study topics and duties will get you excited?
These questions aren’t at all easy to answer. First job experiences and networking are ways to help you answer them. But if you’re willing to research your opportunities thoroughly before making a decision, you’ll have a better chance of making the right choices.
When you’ve answered these questions, it’s time to start shopping for colleges and jobs. The following resources will help you zero in on a major and job, the job opportunities in your region, and the colleges in your region that offer the right major:
“50 Best College Majors for a Secure Future”, by Lawrence Shatkin
College Matchmaker search engine from The College Board
The Occupation Outlook search for job titles and growth projections in your region
For more help, email jill@whatsyourmajor.net
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Two Fun, Easy Tools Will Guide You To Your College Major
The gigantic World of Work is a daunting concept for most students. Two easy and fun tools developed from the research of John Holland,: the RIASEC codes and Career Clusters can alleviate much of your confusion.
According to Holland, you can plug into the World of Work through your personality and interest in working with either data or ideas, and then and people vs. things. For many students, this is intuitive. You just “know” whether you’d rather work on spreadsheets or concepts for new products, when given a series of choices in an assessment.
Holland also theorized that you can make a match between job, and appropriate work environments using six RIASEC codes. Career Centers often do an exercise called “The Career Party” because, again, this process is pretty intuitive. You already know what type of people you’d like to work with, when you read the descriptions of a Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, or Conventional personality. You might fit into one or more of the codes. More structured assessments do this, too.
Career centers might give you a list of job matches that fit your codes. But I find that this idea unfolds more naturally when you visually overlap Career Clusters over your RIASEC codes, such as assessment provider Lawrence Jones explains.
So you’ve taken over 30,000 job titles and chopped your list down to 5000. Progress, right? Now the ball is back in your court. You’re now going to decide if college, other training or work is your next step. Each path has an “opportunity cost”, because you have to give something up when you follow it. But there are gains too, of course. Which decision fits you best? That’s another blog entry!
Info@whatsyourmajor.net
According to Holland, you can plug into the World of Work through your personality and interest in working with either data or ideas, and then and people vs. things. For many students, this is intuitive. You just “know” whether you’d rather work on spreadsheets or concepts for new products, when given a series of choices in an assessment.
Holland also theorized that you can make a match between job, and appropriate work environments using six RIASEC codes. Career Centers often do an exercise called “The Career Party” because, again, this process is pretty intuitive. You already know what type of people you’d like to work with, when you read the descriptions of a Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, or Conventional personality. You might fit into one or more of the codes. More structured assessments do this, too.
Career centers might give you a list of job matches that fit your codes. But I find that this idea unfolds more naturally when you visually overlap Career Clusters over your RIASEC codes, such as assessment provider Lawrence Jones explains.
So you’ve taken over 30,000 job titles and chopped your list down to 5000. Progress, right? Now the ball is back in your court. You’re now going to decide if college, other training or work is your next step. Each path has an “opportunity cost”, because you have to give something up when you follow it. But there are gains too, of course. Which decision fits you best? That’s another blog entry!
Info@whatsyourmajor.net
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)