Pros & Cons Of Joining The Peace Corp

The Peace Corps is an organization that is dedicated to assisting people in developing countries. Members of the Peace Corps live and work abroad for several months at a time on a wide variety of initiatives including HIV/AIDs assistance, educational programs and the development of agriculture. If you are considering joining the Peace Corps, it is best to way both the benefits and possible problems this activity can create in your life.

Personal Growth

One of the most important things about the Peace Corps is their dedication to improving the lives of other people. As you participate in these activities, you will experience deep personal growth. You will feel a sense of accomplishment and self-worth for helping others, and you will mature as a person as you struggle to deal with difficult circumstances. This personal growth will help you in other areas of your life.

Resume Builder

Joining the Peace Corps shows a strong dedication to working as part of a team, living up to commitments and responsibilities, and acting humanely. These are all strong traits that can be inferred by a potential employer as they browse through your resume. The Peace Corps also provides you with interesting experiences that may be related to your future job, such as organizing team efforts, working with education or medication, or developing mastery of a foreign language.

Time

If you want to join the Peace Corps, be sure you are ready to follow through on that commitment. The minimum commitment for a Peace Corps volunteer is 27 months. This means you will spend at least two years training and living abroad as you serve your mission. If you are not ready to take two years away from your friends, family and current life, the Peace Corps is not for you. This is one reason why it is best to join the Peace Corps before or immediately after college.

Danger

Peace Corps volunteers are deployed to many different countries and may work in incredibly remote environments. Safety is a high priority for the Peace Corps organization, but you may end up working in an area with several risks. Volunteers can be injured or killed during violent uprisings in unstable countries, or can come down with local diseases or illnesses. Most of these risks are negligible as long as you follow the prescribed recommendations on stay safe in your host country.

Tags: Peace Corps, Corps organization, growth will, join Peace, join Peace Corps

Jewelry Making Classes In Maryland

Jewelry making classes in Maryland are for the experienced and novice artisan.

Jewelry making can be an artistic outlet for amateurs or professionals. In Maryland, jewelry making classes are available at a variety of locations including bead stores, colleges and jewelry clubs. Instruction can range from simple beading techniques for the novice jewelry maker, to soldering and welding instruction for the more advanced artisan.

Beading

This Maryland jewelry making class focuses on beads.

This two-hour Maryland jewelry class is held on Thursdays and Fridays for a typical cost of $15 to $17. Students must sign up for the class a minimum of five days before it starts, however, there’s no restriction to the amount of classes you must sign up for, making it a good choice for students who want to try out a jewelry making class before committing to a long-term session of classes. Instructors teach students to work with various types of beads including glass, wood and shell beads. Students gain instruction in creating necklaces, bracelets and earrings. The store also teaches individual classes upon request.

Gotta Luv Beads

348 Ritchie Highway, Suite A

Severna Park, MD 21146

410-431-7373

www.gottaluvbeads.com

Beginning Jewelry Making

In this class students learn the beginning skills to working with gems.

The eight-week beginning jewelry making class includes about 20 hours of instruction in working with copper and silver to create jewelry pieces. In the evening class, students will be able to create jewelry they can take home and wear. The class fee and materials cost is about $200 and all the equipment you’ll need to create the jewelry is provided at each class session. Although this is an introductory course and open to the public, students learn advanced techniques such as solder, saw, pierce and set stone.

Gem Cutters Guild

3600 Clipper Mill Road, Suite 116

Baltimore, MD 21211

410-467-9838

www.gemcuttersguild.com

Tags: create jewelry, jewelry making class, making class, Maryland jewelry, class students, Jewelry Making, jewelry making

Write A Personal Statement For High School

Many high-school teachers like to assign personal statements as a writing activity. Not only does this teach students write about themselves, but it also comes in handy when they are applying for college. Nearly all colleges require personal statements as part of the application process. Take your time and write a good personal statement in your high-school English class so you can use it for college.

Instructions

1. Read the assignments carefully. Personal statements usually ask you to explain an event that changed your life, someone who is important to you or some other cause of personal change. Your assignment will also probably have a length requirement, and may have specific points you're supposed to address.

2. Decide on the topic. Even if the personal statement asks for the most important person in your life, you don't necessarily have to write on the most important one. Pick something that you can write freely on without feeling the need to censor yourself. If you're not sure what to write about, try writing down your thoughts on a few different subjects. The one that flows the most easily is probably the best.

3. Write a short, predictable introduction and dive right into the body of the essay. Rather than struggling over the right words to begin the essay with, say something like "This essay is about Mr. Jones, the most important person in my life." This will get you writing. When you're done, you can return and rewrite it.

4. Tell the story. You personal statement should introduce the subject, develop it and show how you changed as a result. For example, if you are writing a personal statement about a favorite person you might say when you met him, what your first impression was of him, what he did that inspired you and how that changed your life.

5. Write your conclusion, which is the main point of your statement. A personal statement is always about some change. Whether you're writing about a friendship, an experience or a book, you need to tell the reader how it has made you a different and (hopefully) better person. Don't go into grandiose language; keep it down to earth. If all the experience taught you was to not make snap decisions without thinking something through, then that's what you should talk about in the conclusion.

6. Redo the introduction. The conclusion goes from a personal experience to a more universal lesson. The introduction should mirror that, going from something universal into your personal experience. For example, if your lesson was the one about not making snap decisions, you might talk about hearing the phrase "look before you leap" from your parents when you were young, but never thinking about it until you had a particular experience.

Tags: personal statement, most important, your life, changed your, changed your life, important person, most important person

Do A Close Reading On A Paper

A close reading aims to uncover details that aren't explicitly stated through inductive inference.

Learn the skill of close reading if you have to complete an assignment on a particular paper or a section of some text. Close reading refers to the process of looking over a piece of text and drawing conclusions about it based on the specific information, themes, imagery and wording it uses. Many different aspects of the writing can help with your close reading, such as the structure of the work, the sound and rhythm of the writing, the connotations of words used and any rhetorical devices it employs.

Instructions

1. Read the passage through once. If you are constructing an essay based on an entire paper, read the entire paper and make notes on the page next to any important or surprising content. Think about the specific content of your essay or the question you are trying to answer as you do this, and note down anything that may be relevant to this end. Look over the specific section of the text if one is indicated in your question. Ensure that you can paraphrase the entire paper to make sure you understand the overall content.

2. Look up any words you don't know the meaning of. You must understand all of the terminology used in the paper you are reading. Make special note of any interesting connotations of words used in the paper. For example, a character "yanking" open a door has different connotations to one simply "opening" a door.

3. Find patterns or semantic fields within the text that may lead you to the overall theme. A semantic field is a collection of words that have similar connotations or are usually used when referring to a specific field. For example, a paper about industry may refer to workers as "cogs" in the overall "machine" of the organization, using words related to mechanical devices or technology. The use of this in such a piece of writing may indicate that the writer sees the industry as run by machines, not people. Look for similar patterns in metaphors or descriptions used by the writer.

4. Determine the attitude of the author or narrator. The narrator of a story or the author of a paper will often give subtle clues to his opinions within the text. Look over your annotations for aspects which show the author or narrator's opinion on the topic under discussion or the event being related. Search for rhetorical devices such as similes, metaphors and symbols which indicate the author's opinion.

5. Form your observations into an overall thesis based on the text. For example, you may have noticed that the paper uses language with negative connotations when referring to the treatment of employees by their workplace, and the narrator may have indicated discomfort about the situation. Referring to workers as "cogs" or other metaphorical allusions may lead you to the overall conclusion that the paper argues that workers are not treated with respect and are expected to function like machines.

Tags: entire paper, author narrator, close reading, connotations words, connotations words used

Win A Fulbright Scholarship

Choose from teaching or research projects when you pursue a Fulbright Scholarship.

Actor John Lithgow received one, as did opera singer Renee Fleming, and composer Philip Glass, all testimony to the fact that you don't have to be an economic wunderkind or foreign policy wonk to land a Fulbright Scholarship. Established by Congress in 1946, this dynamic educational initiative was named after former Senator J. William Fulbright of Arkansas. Nearly a quarter of a million domestic and international students have been granted this coveted prize. There's no reason why your name shouldn't appear on a future list of recipients.

Instructions

1. Understand the goal of the Fulbright Program. The U.S. Government's "flagship international exchange program" exists to "increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries." You'll need an outstanding academic record, more than a passing interest in international exchange, and evidence of leadership potential to compete. Importantly, start early -- the Fulbright organization suggests the second semester of your junior year -- and use the Fulbright Student Program information guide as your bible.

2. Peruse the annually published Fulbright Catalog of Awards to consider current opportunities, as these openings change frequently. Match your interest in humanities, sciences, social sciences, mathematics, performing arts, engineering or technology to the list of available awards. Decide whether your talents would be best used as a teacher, conducting research, or a combination of the two.

3. Obtain an application and directions for completing the paperwork and compiling backup materials from your campus awards and scholarships department, the Fulbright website or the Council for International Exchange of Scholars. (See Resources). If you're not committed to a specific culture, select from geographic projects with the most openings so you stand a better chance of being given an award. Meet the language requirements tied to the study area you'll pursue.

4. Write a personal proposal/statement, a critically important component of your application. Outline research or teaching objectives and goals in three sections: an introduction, how you plan to achieve your goal, and how your efforts abroad will contribute to diplomacy and understanding between the U.S. and your host nation. Relevance is the single most important aspect of your statement so write and edit, then ask professors and colleagues to evaluate your statement before you submit it.

5. Obtain a letter of invitation from the country you've chosen. For example, if you plan to pursue a research project that reveals the sociological gap that exists between South and North Korean universities, request a letter of invitation from a university in South Korea. Another conduit to acquiring this letter is to find a former Fulbright scholar who conducted research in South Korea. Get help from Fulbright Program personnel.

6. Expect your application and supporting documents to take a circuitous route starting with your university faculty. If your application passes muster, you'll be invited to an in-person interview. Next, your application, supporting documents and faculty recommendations will move to the Institute for International Education before being sent to the host country's Fulbright representatives where a yes-or-no decision will be made. Stay patient and you'll be rewarded.

Tags: your application, Fulbright Scholarship, application supporting, application supporting documents, Fulbright Program

Use An Ira As A College Savings Plan

One of the benefits of an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is that it allows you to withdraw funds for qualified higher education expenses without facing tax penalties. As long as the funds are for qualified education expenses, are paid to an eligible educational institution, and a member of your family incurred the expenses, you can enjoy tax-free growth of your money until the time of withdrawal. If you're considering different options for funding education, learn use an IRA as a college savings plan.

Instructions

1. Decide which type of IRA you want to use. A Traditional IRA will allow you to withdraw funds for college expenses while avoiding the 10 percent penalty for early withdrawal. You would still have to pay any income tax on the distribution itself. With a Roth IRA, if distributions are limited only to what you have contributed, then there is no tax penalty for withdrawals. You will also need to make sure that you meet the income requirements for contributing to an IRA.

2. Open an account. You may choose to open an IRA through your bank or through one of the many online companies that offer them, such as Vanguard, T. Rowe Price and Fidelity. If you're planning to open your IRA online, take time to research the different investment options of each company before making your choice. You should base the type of investment on how long you have until the funds will need to be available.

3. Begin funding your account. The current maximum contribution limit for a Traditional or Roth IRA is $5,000 per year, and these amounts are subject to increase by the IRS. You can fund your account in full upon opening or choose to make monthly or quarterly deposits. While you are not required to contribute the full amount, it's best to maximize contributions to take advantage of accruing interest. If you're planning to use an IRA for a college savings plan, you should open the account as far in advance of the withdrawal date as possible to allow for maximum growth.

4. Decide when you will need to make withdrawals and in what amount. Calculate the total amount of funds you or your student has accumulated or will accumulate in the form of scholarships, student loans, grants and funds from other savings vehicles. Compare this amount with the amount needed for qualified educational expenses, including tuition, books and room and board. This will determine the shortfall amount that you will need to withdraw from your IRA.

5. Contact the financial institution that holds your IRA and complete the appropriate paperwork when it is time to make your withdrawal. You may need to provide a list of the expenses that you are making the withdrawal for and verify that the educational institution is eligible.

Tags: will need, college savings, college savings plan, education expenses, educational institution, funds qualified

Get Hvac Certification

HVAC/R systems are found in nearly every building. They control air flow and temperature and filter out air particles. As an HVAC technician, or contractor, you will work on diverse machinery including boilers, heat pumps, air-conditioning units and furnaces. Your work will include installation, testing, troubleshooting, repairing and removal. You will be working with high-voltage electricity lines and often doing so at the top of a ladder, on a roof or crawling through duct work. You must have skills in sheet metal working, plumbing and electrical maintenance and repair. The complexity of the job is why local, state and federal agencies get involved to make sure you know what you are doing.

Instructions

1. Prepare for your career as an HVAC technician by taking the appropriate courses at a professional school, junior or community college. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most HVAC technicians get their training this way or through the Armed Services. Studies can take anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the school and the certificate or degree being sought.

2. Become an apprentice. This is an opportunity to learn on the job by teaming with an experienced HVAC technician. According to the BLS, entrants into apprenticeship programs need only a high school diploma, and completing such a program may lead to certification.

3. Contact your municipal, county and state governments to determine their requirements for HVAC technician training and licensing. Also contact the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for information on training and licensing requirements for dealing with refrigeration.

4. Contact the three accrediting agencies for the industry: HVAC Excellence, the National Center for Construction Education and Research, and the Partnership for Air-Conditioning Heating and Refrigeration Accreditation. These organizations can give you advice on get the best training and the most useful certifications to have.

5. Take and pass any certification exams your state or city requires. These can range from entry-level certification programs to specialized certifications, such as those required to handle refrigerants. Most exams are administered by schools, training programs or accrediting organizations

Tags: HVAC technician, training licensing

Visit The College Of William & Mary

Founded in 1693, The College of William & Mary is the second oldest college organization in the United States (after Harvard). Named for the British King William and Queen Mary, the college's alumni include Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe, jurist John Marshall, 16 signers of the Declaration of Independence and, more recently, actress Glenn Close and talk show host Jon Stewart.

Instructions

1. Spend a weekend in Williamsburg, Virginia. The College of William & Mary (W&M) is located in historic Williamsburg, in eastern Virginia. Visitors can fly into Richmond, about 30 miles away, or Newport News, about 15 miles away. Williamsburg is also an easy drive from Washington D.C., Baltimore and other east coast cities.

2. Tour the Campus. William & Mary offers information sessions and tours for prospective students and their families. The visit begins with a 30 to 45 minute talk, followed by an hour long walking tour. Highlights of the walking tour include a residence hall, the library, various academic buildings and the University Center. Tours begin at the Office of Undergraduate Admissions on Jamestown Road. No advance notice is necessary for groups of less than 10 persons. Tour schedules are listed on the William & Mary website (see Resources below for link).

3. Schedule an interview. Rising seniors (high school students who have completed their junior year) are eligible for an interview. These are conducted by trained William & Mary seniors and give the applicant a chance to learn about the school and gives W&M a chance to evaluate the prospective applicant. Interviews may be scheduled only via the W&M website by going to the "Visiting W&M" page on the college's website and then clicking on the "Meet Face to Face" link.

4. Spend the night at William and Mary. During the fall and spring semesters, William & Mary offers visting high school students the opportunity to spend the night with a student in the dormitory and attend class with him the following morning. Visiting students also get a chance to sample campus dining. Reservations may only be made online, by selecting the "Visiting W&M" page from the links at the left and choosing "Spend the Night."

Tags: William Mary, College William, College William Mary, about miles, about miles away, high school, high school students

Study Law In College

You can study certain aspects of the law in college without attending law school.

Law school, a course of study that leads to the Juris Doctorate degree, prepares graduates to practice law. While most law schools require a four-year undergraduate degree and only allow law students to enroll in classes, there are ways to study aspects of law as an undergraduate student. That said, undergraduate pre-law courses are not required to apply to law school and are not recommended by law school admission counselors.

Instructions

1. Enroll in a legal studies or paralegal studies program at a college or university. Such two- and four-year programs provide an entry-level introduction to various aspects of law, including legal research and writing, business law, civil procedure and general jurisprudence. Students can use what they learn to submit better law school applications or to work as paralegals or legal assistants.

2. Register for undergraduate law classes. Certain academic departments such as business and political science offer undergraduate law courses. Undergraduate law courses with a business and political science focus provide a basic overview of the legal topics and provide insight about current legal cases related to the subject matter. For example, constitutional law classes offered by political science departments focus on Supreme Court cases related to discrimination, while business law courses focus on the way the law applies to business and finance.

3. Sit-in on law classes offered at law schools near you. Contact law professors to find out if they allow undergraduate students to audit their courses. While law professors most likely won't let you take courses for credit, they may allow you to sit-in to get a preview of what to expect in law school.

4. Read law review articles. Law schools publish journals featuring scholarly articles and commentaries on current legal topics. Some law reviews feature general law articles on a variety of subjects, while others focus on a single aspect of law such as intellectual property law. Law review journals can be found in libraries or online.

Tags: political science, business political, business political science, cases related, classes offered

Communicate Effectively In A Job Interview

Communicate Effectively in a Job Interview

Being able to effectively communicate is a skill that enhances many areas in life. In a job interview, clear communication is of the utmost importance, as employers are looking for people who can seamlessly fit into an existing setting and perform well under pressure.

Instructions

Practice Your Communication Skills

1. Spend an hour ahead of time listing positive traits about yourself. Highlight some of these attributes in your interview.

2. Conduct a mock interview with a friend or business associate and evaluate your communication skills. If there are topics that your interviewee didn't fully understand, work on ways to make them clearer for your real interview.

3. Speak while looking in a mirror. Pay attention to any nervous habits, such as excessive hand movement, poor eye contact or awkward long pauses.

Communicate Effectively and Confidently During Your Interview

4. Be a great listener. This will help you understand exactly what you are being asked and how you should answer.

5. Show poise at all times by taking your time before you answer. A short pause won't make a bad impression as long as it is used to gather your thoughts for a clear and concise answer.

6. Avoid long, run-on answers by asking for clarification if you don't understand a certain question.

7. Tell the truth. If your information in an interview is not consistent with your resume, you will not likely be offered a job. The easiest way to communicate effectively and truthfully is to emphasize your strong points.

Evaluate Your Performance

8. Confirm that your interviewer has received all the answers that he/she needs to know.

9. Ask a few questions of your own at the end of a job interview to show that you are just as interested in the position as the interviewee is in hiring you.

10. Leave your contact information so that potential employers can contact you if they have any follow-up questions.

Tags: Communicate Effectively, Communicate Effectively Interview, Effectively Interview, that your, your interview

Accounting Career Paths

Accounting Career Paths

A career in accounting can be very lucrative. While some people may consider accounting boring, nothing can be further from the truth. There are many different accounting career paths that can be taken. Yes, some of them overlap, but each has its own specialty and focus.

Bookkeeping

A bookkeeper is considered to be an entry level position in the accounting field. Bookkeepers keep track of and record invoices, payments and other revenue coming in and out of the company.

General Accountant

A general accountant is similar to a bookkeeper. They generally make accruals and adjustments in the accounting records. Accountants in larger companies usually specialize in a certain department like payroll.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

A CPA is licensed by the state to audit financial information for public companies for accuracy. CPAs can also work for themselves completing taxes or accounting for individuals.

Controller

A controller is a figure in charge of an accounting department. Controllers typically work in public or private companies and are in charge of cash flow for the company. This is a position that an accountant has to work towards through experience.

Forensic Accountant

Forensic Accountants work with law enforcement officials to investigate financial crimes such as embezzling, money laundering and contract disputes. Some knowledge of law is required in addition to accounting knowledge for this accounting career path.

Tags: accounting career, Accounting Career Paths

Tuition Reimbursement Tax Information

Tuition Reimbursement Tax Information

Education generally increases your ability to perform at your job and possibly increases your understanding of complex matters, enhancing your attributes related to your employment. You may even have limitations on your upward mobility without improving your educational accomplishments. These accomplishments may come in the form of single classes, certifications and degree programs. Unfortunately, the cost of this education carries a high price tag, which is why some employers choose to offer educational assistance to employees.

Employer Assistance

Employers can provide educational assistance to employees through many different methods. Your company can reimburse you, pay your costs up front or even provide in-house education to you at no expense. Not all assistance is tax-free, so consult your employer to determine the tax consequences of the benefits you receive. Common programs include reimbursement after completion of your course, varying levels of reimbursement for different final grades and employer payment up front before beginning class.

Considerations

Your employer can provide you with educational benefits up to $5,250 tax-free. Any assistance beyond this amount becomes taxable and reportable on box 1 of your W 2. Qualified tax-free educational benefits include the cost of tuition, fees, supplies, equipment and books related to enrollment in your course. Courses do not have to relate to your employment, although they cannot involve hobbies, games or sports, unless the class reasonably relates to your employment or is part of an accredited degree program.

Tax-Free Limitations

An employer can provide educational assistance beyond the $5,250 tax-free limitation to the extent that the benefit is a working condition benefit. To qualify as a working condition benefit, the education must otherwise be deductible to you, the employee, had you paid the expenses. In addition, at a minimum the education must maintain your job skills, if not improve them, for your current position. You may also meet the working condition benefit if the education is required by law or your employer to maintain your current position.

Warnings

Although your education benefits may meet the requirements of a working condition benefit, you still may not be able to receive your educational benefit tax-free. Minimum educational requirements in your employer's industry or trade become a taxable benefit. Accounting firms comprising certified public accountants and attorney firms require licensure before employees can perform the primary services the business provides to its clients. Education used to satisfy licensure requirements no longer qualifies as a working condition benefit. Additionally, programs of study that qualify you for a new trade or business do not qualify as a working condition benefit either.

Expert Insight

Educational expenses you paid and deducted are no longer deductible if you receive any form of reimbursement for qualified expenses. Reimbursement comes in the form of grants, employer assistance and other forms of payment. Not only is the tuition no longer deductible, you cannot deduct any qualified expenses related to the tuition, for which you received reimbursement. Educational institutions such as colleges and universities, exclude the cost of qualified tuition reduction from your wages if you a current employee. For additional assistance with your specific circumstances, contact your local enrolled agent, a tax professional licensed by the Department of the Treasury in tax matters.

Tags: condition benefit, working condition, working condition benefit, educational assistance, your employer, your employment, assistance beyond

Write A Statement Of Purpose For A Doctorate Of Education

All graduate school applicants need a statement of purpose.

Before you can be accepted into a Doctorate of Education program at a university, you need to submit a statement of purpose. Different programs have various directions for writing a statement of purpose, so be sure to check with each school's specific guidelines. However, in general, a statement of purpose usually explains why you are interested in the field of education, what your career goals are, and why you should be accepted into the Doctorate of Education program.

Instructions

1. Begin with something meaningful. Do not say, "This is my statement of purpose, and I am writing it because ... " Instead, begin by talking about your teaching philosophy, what fascinates you most about the field of education, or what aspect of education you're interested in researching and learning more about. What you say should be directly relevant to your career goals.

2. Talk about your undergraduate degree and relate it to your goals of getting into a Doctorate of Education program. For example, discuss how your undergraduate degree has prepared you for the challenges of the program you're applying to. Also include your extracurricular activities, such as tutoring or completing academic research with a professor, which have had a direct bearing on your decision to enter the education field.

3. Discuss the path in education that you would like to pursue in more detail. If you want to teach, for example, you might discuss how you feel about the country's current education system or what type of teaching philosophy you will use in the classroom.

4. Include information about why you are applying to that specific Doctorate of Education program. In this section, talk about your overall career goals and how attending this particular program will help you reach those goals.

5. Add anecdotes to the statement of purpose to emphasize your key points. For example, when you discuss your education philosophy, tell a story about how or why you came to that conclusion. Discussing your personal education philosophy will show the admissions committee more of your personality and make it more likely that your statement of purpose will be accepted.

Tags: statement purpose, Doctorate Education, Doctorate Education program, Education program, about your

Register A Service Mark

A service mark is legally similar to a trademark. While a trademark is used for a product, a service mark is used for a service. They serve a different function, but registration of both are handled through the United States Patent and Trademark Office. While service marks are less well known than trademarks in the general population, registering for one is no more difficult than the other.

As legally intimidating as trademark law can seem, the service mark application process is a straightforward one that can be completed in about an hour. However, this does not mean that the process is necessarily easy, and it requires a great attention to detail.

Instructions

1. Go to the service mark application page, at the United States Patent and Trademark Office website (see Resources).

2. Determine whether to apply using the TEAS (Trademark Electronic Application System) form, or the TEAS Plus form. The TEAS Plus form has an application fee of $275, while the TEAS form is $325. While applying with the TEAS Plus form is cheaper, it has stricter application requirements. One of the biggest differences is that TEAS Plus applicants must meet all requirements under rule 2.22(a), while the normal TEAS form requires only five completed requirements. A link to the rule 2.22(a) application requirements can be found in the Resources section. If you do not meet the TEAS Plus form's stricter requirements, you must apply using the TEAS form.

3. Select either the TEAS or TEAS Plus form and click the "Continue" button.

4. Indicate whether an attorney is filing the service mark application by selecting "Yes" or "No" at the bottom of the page. This will create a custom application form depending on your needs. Click the "Continue" button.

5. Fill out your business information. This page includes basic location and contact information, the name of the service mark's owner (which may differ from the person filling out the application), and the type of entity the service mark is for (corporation, individual use, trust, etc). Click the "Continue" button at the bottom of the page once you have finished.

6. Complete the service mark application form. This will include attaching, in .JPG format, your service mark, along with any evidence, foreign registration certificates or consent information required. If you are registering a "sound mark," which is an audio-based service mark, attach as either a .WAV or an MP3.

7. Click the "Validate" button at the end of the service mark application. This will bring you to the Validation page. Double-check your application information to make sure it is accurate.

8. Click the "Pay/Submit" button on the Validation page. Select your method of payment, which may be with a credit card, an electronic funds transfer or through a deposit account. Enter and submit your payment information.

9. Write down the provided serial number on the confirmation page, which you will be brought to once you have submitted your payment information. This serial number can be used to check the status of your application through the Trademark Applications and Registrations Retrieval website, a link to which can be found in the Resources section.

Tags: service mark, TEAS Plus, mark application, Plus form, service mark application, TEAS Plus form, Continue button

Pay Off Bills Quicker

Bills are often stressful.

Debt and bills are a huge problem for many families. Many bills, with the exception of bills related to living expenses like electricity or gas, are the result of debts of some kind. Lowering expenses and getting rid of the debt is the best way to pay off the bills quickly and end up with more money going into the pocket every month.

Instructions

1. Lower living expenses as much as possible. Though some expenses, like electricity and groceries, are necessary, cutting some of the extras can result in high savings over the course of a month. Cut out the extras, and then put the saved money toward bills. Write out every penny that is spent for a month, and then write out what is necessary, like groceries, and what is an added expense that can be cut completely or cut back on, such as coffee outside or restaurants. Set aside a specific amount of money for extras, and put the rest of the extra money toward bills.

2. Pay extra money every month to high interest debts like credit cards. Paying the minimum ensures that only the interest is being paid, or very little over the interest is paid, which results in paying back huge amounts for debts over time.

3. Avoid spending with a credit card. Spending while trying to pay off a credit card results in higher debts that cannot be easily paid off. Only spend on a credit card if the amount can be paid in full by the next month. Use cash or a debit card for most spending.

4. Pay the normal 30-year mortgage rate until other debts are paid in full. Mortgage interest is generally much lower than other debts, which means that paying it first makes very little sense. Pay off the other debts before tackling the low interest ones like mortgages. The only exceptions are adjustable rate mortgages, which can rise to very high interest over time.

Tags: credit card, other debts, every month, expenses like, expenses like electricity, extra money

Pros & Cons Of A Criminal Justice Degree

A criminal justice degree is a standard college path by which an individual may enter the law enforcement field. There are a number of different pros and cons to the idea of getting a criminal justice degree, and you will have to consider them carefully before deciding to spend your time and money pursuing a college degree that may or may not help you in the criminal justice job search.

Pro: Promotion Possibility

Most police positions will at some point or another require a criminal justice degree as a prerequisite for a promotion. Having the degree already in your background means that you will not be denied a promotion because of lack of training or education. This can be a real time saver once you have entered the field, because you will not have to make time on your busy schedule for further classes.

Con: Cost

A criminal justice degree is expensive, as most college degrees are, and it is no guarantee of a police or criminal justice job. Because many police departments have their own physical and psychological requirements, you might complete the degree, only to find that you cannot jump high enough or do not have good enough vision to secure a police position even with your degree.

Pro: Help in the Field

A degree will definitely help you in the criminal justice field, because you will already have knowledge of the type of work that you will be doing. However, you will likely still have to attend classes and special training in order to keep your police job or advance within the field.

Con: May Not Be Necessary

In many cases, criminal justice is a field that can be entered without a degree, if you have some of the proper background. For example, if you serve in the military as a military policeman, or if you have experience as a security guard, you can often enter the criminal justice field without a formal degree. Many police agencies have a training academy where new recruits are automatically enrolled. These academies will teach new recruits everything that they need to know to operate as a police officer, so some of what you may have learned in college may be duplicated, or may not be applicable.

Tags: criminal justice, justice degree, criminal justice, criminal justice field, justice field

Use Your Roth Ira For Education

The Roth IRA is not only a beneficial tool for retirement saving, but it may also prove helpful for funding college. The Roth IRA has some features that make it an attractive option if you need extra cash to pay for post-secondary education for you, your spouse, your child or grandchild. For instance, when you use Roth IRA distributions for educational expenses you will not have to pay taxes or penalties, provided the money withdrawn does not exceed the sum of your contributions. It is important, though, to follow rules governing the use of the money.

Instructions

1. Add up how much you have contributed to your Roth IRA to date. Since you have already paid taxes on the money you have put in your Roth IRA, you won't be taxed when you take that money out. Unless you have no other option, plan only to take out the sum of your contributions. If you start tapping into your Roth IRA investment earnings, you will be taxed on the earnings.

2. You, your spouse, child or grandchild must be planning to attend a qualifying institution of higher education. Qualifying institutions are those that accept federal financial aid administered by the U. S. Department of Education.

3. Calculate how much money from other sources you have to pay for the current year's educational expenses by adding up the amount of money you have from grants, scholarships, fellowships, employer contributions, gifts and other savings. Subtract that number from the total owed in qualifying educational expenses. The difference is the amount you are permitted to withdraw from your Roth IRA.

4. Contact your financial planner or your financial institution and withdraw the money from your Roth IRA. Use the distributions to pay for qualifying educational expenses such as tuition, books or supplies. Students enrolled at least half-time may use distributions to pay for room and board as long as they do not exceed the educational institution's allowance for room and board or the actual amount charged for the student's room and board. Keep accurate records.

5. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 for each year needed. You can skip years of withdrawal if you wish.

Tags: your Roth, educational expenses, room board, child grandchild, from your, from your Roth, money from

Gpa Sat & Act Score Requirements For Villanova University

SAT, ACT and GPA scores must be competitive for admission to Villanova University.

Villanova University received over 14,000 applications for the class of 2015, but they planned only to accept roughly 1,600 students, with 82 percent of those accepted ranking in the top 10 percent of their high school class. With such intense competition for admission, Villanova University hopefuls must submit an outstanding application that includes GPA, SAT and ACT scores that meet Villanova's high standards.

GPA Requirements

All Villanova applicants must submit an official high school transcript with their application, sent online from a secondary school counselor. Villanova's average accepted applicant has a GPA of 3.8-4.20 on a weighted scale. According to a Villanova representative, this means that they have accepted students with GPAs roughly 25 percent below this, but there is no stated minimum GPA requirement. Where GPA is used to determine class rank, Villanova also states that 98 percent of their accepted freshman applicants rank in the top 20 percent of their high school class.

SAT Requirements

All Villanova applicants must submit all official SAT scores with their application, which must be sent directly and electronically from the College Board. SAT scores must also include the Writing sub-score, although the Critical Reading and Math scores are used as the primary test indicators. Villanova's average accepted applicant has an SAT composite score in the range of 1330-1440 out of 1600. According to a Villanova representative, this means that they have accepted students with SAT scores roughly 25 percent below this, and there is no stated minimum SAT score requirement.

ACT Requirements

All Villanova applicants must submit all official ACT scores with their application, which must be sent directly and electronically from the ACT. ACT scores must also include the ACT Writing test, although the ACT composite score is used as the primary test indicator. Villanova's average accepted applicant has an ACT composite score in the range of 30-33. According to a Villanova representative, this means that they have accepted students with ACT scores roughly 25 percent below this, and there is no stated minimum ACT composite score requirement.

Submitting Scores

Villanova requires that potential candidates submit their test scores from all attempts at the SAT or ACT. The Villanova admission committee reviews all scores, using the highest Critical Reading and Math scores from the SAT, and the highest ACT composite score for admission. Villanova also states that for regular decision, all College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB) tests must be taken no later than December of the candidate's senior year. Early action applicants must submit their scores to Villanova by November 1 of their senior year.

Tags: composite score, must submit, applicants must, applicants must submit, Requirements Villanova, students with

The Best Interior Design Schools In California

Interior design is a broad field with specializations in a range of areas, including commercial design, historical preservation and retail store design. In California, design schools give students the knowledge and training necessary to get entry-level jobs in the field. The institutions feature professors who have actual experience in the professional interior design industry. As a bonus, graduates are able to tap into the schools' vast alumni base spread across the country.

Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising

You might recognize the Fashion Institute of Design's Los Angeles campus as the location for the sixth season of Project Runway. The institute's top facilities carry over to the interior design program. Students learn theoretical elements along with hands-on approaches to creatively solve design problems. You'll be trained to work in several careers, including as a set designer, production designer and project manager. Students learn to work with other majors to design projects and gain real-world skills that aids them after graduation. That includes helping with the school's annual DEBUT Runway Show & L.A. Fashion Gala, which attracts over 10,000 people during three days.

Los Angeles Campus

919 South Grand Ave

Los Angeles, CA 90015-1421

(800) 624-1200

Orange County Campus

17590 Gillette Ave

Irvine, CA 92614-5610

(949) 851-6200

San Francisco Campus

55 Stockton Street

San Francisco, CA 94108-5829

(415) 675-5200

San Diego Campus

350 Tenth Ave, 3rd Floor

San Diego, CA 92101

(619) 235-2049

fidm.edu

Interior Designers Institute

Many schools offer an interior design program along with math, English and history programs. The institute's main focus, however, is producing future workers in the interior designer industry. Consequently, Interior Designers Institute is able to devote all its resources into the major. That includes computer-aided design and drafting classes, an internship program that provides employment in design firms while attending school and work on simulated class projects that involves hospitals, offices and other places.

Interior Designers Institute

1061 Camelback Street

Newport Beach, CA 92660

(949) 675-4451

idi.edu

Otis College of Art and Design

Future interior designers enroll in the school's Architecture/Landscape/Interiors program. The three fields are closely related and students gain knowledge of all three in a single curriculum. Graduates are fully prepared to work as interior designers. The versatility of the program teaches students varied skills and opens options in other fields like architecture, landscape design and aquatic environmental design.

Otis College of Art and Design

9045 Lincoln Blvd

Los Angeles, CA 90045

(310) 665-6800

otis.edu

Tags: Designers Institute, interior design, Interior Designers Institute, along with, College Design, design program, Fashion Institute

Use White Lithium Grease

There are a variety of lubricants available for automotive, home, marine and shop usage, but none quite as good or versatile as white lithium grease. When it creaks, sticks, jams or rubs chances are white lithium grease can solve the problem. It's easy to use, safe on any kind of metal and long lasting; it doesn't splatter, melt, run, wash off or freeze. To reduce friction and protect against rust, use white lithium grease.

Instructions

1. Choose white lithium grease when there's metal on metal contact. Purchase white lithium grease from a hardware store. There are numerous brands, most available in aerosol cans that are easy to use.

2. Move the part(s) so you have easy access. Remove mechanical parts to get good contact as you apply the lithium grease.

3. Spray the white lithium grease where needed (anywhere metal might come in contact with other metal). Watch it infiltrate small crevices and fill small spots.

4. Let the grease dry. Once dry it provides excellent lubrication and protection.

5. Replace the parts and enjoy the long lasting nature of white lithium grease. Wash your hands with a degreasing product after using.

Tags: lithium grease, white lithium grease, white lithium, long lasting, white lithium

Which College Expenses Are Tax Deductible

If you're not one of the lucky few with a full scholarship or a rich relative willing to pay, you may find yourself shelling out big bucks to get through even a two-year college degree program. Luckily, some of those expenses are tax deductible.

Availability

You are eligible to deduct your college expenses if you or your spouse is a part-time student, full-time student or the parent of a dependent student. If you're unsure of eligibility for any of these deductions, check with the IRS or a certified accountant.

Lifetime Learning

As of the 2010 tax year, the Lifetime Learning credit has no time limit for claiming and can be for up to $2,000 of reduction in taxes per return. It can be claimed for any level of higher education.

Tuition and Fees

You may deduct up to $4,000 worth of tuition and fees for enrollment in technical schools, colleges and universities.

Student Loans

If you are paying back student loans (or even just paying the interest on non-subsidized loans), you may deduct up to $2,500 as of the 2010 tax year. Those with adjusted gross incomes of more than $75,000 or more than $150,000 if married and filing jointly do not qualify.

Tags: 2010 year, Lifetime Learning, more than

Law Degree Entry Requirements

Your success in law school is dependent upon your work ethic.

Applying for and obtaining admission into a professional school is not easy. This is no different for law schools. While there is no specific formula to gain admission into a law school, understanding the entry requirements is helpful in maximizing your chances, especially since the application process is a very competitive one.

Undergraduate Education

One of the most fundamental requirements for entry into any American Bar Association (ABA) accredited law school is the completion of an undergraduate education. If you considering attending an ABA accredited law school, you must have completed a four-year bachelor's degree. The bachelor's degree must be regionally accredited in the United States. In addition to this requirement, law schools find other factors, such as your GPA, academic awards and the rigor and quality of your undergraduate classes, are helpful in choosing students for an incoming law school. Furthermore, law schools view applicants who have completed a graduate education favorably.

LSAT

The Law School Admission Test (LSAT), administered by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC), seeks to measure skills that are critical to succeeding in law school. The test is open to the public four times a year, which is typically in June, October, December and February; the actual dates vary from one year to another.

There are five 35-minite sections in the LSAT, namely the Analytical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension and Logical Reasoning sections. The score scale ranges from 120 to 180, with 120 being the lowest score and 180 being the highest score an applicant can achieve on the test.

All ABA accredited schools require applicants to register and sit for the LSAT. Typically, the higher your LSAT score, the more competitive you are in comparison to other applicants. Therefore, it is important to score highly on the test. Nonetheless, law schools do not solely rely on an applicant's LSAT performance in making an admission decision.

LSAC Account with LSDAS

Before gaining admission into any ABA accredited law school, you must sign up for an LSAC account with a current Law School Data Assembly Service file (see Resources). Upon paying the LSDAS fee, which, as of May 2010, was $132, the LSDAS provides law schools with a comprehensive academic summary of your background. Your LSDAS file displays vital information, such as your undergraduate GPA and your LSAT score.

ABA accredited law schools require applicants to maintain an up-to-date LSDAS file.

Additional Requirements

Additional requirements for law school admission include a personal statement discussing any aspect of your life that you believe will help the law school admission in assessing whether law school would be a good fit. Typically, law schools require law school applicants to type their personal statements with a 12-point font; the page must be double-spaced.

Law schools generally view applicants who have overcome various forms of adversity favorably.

Other requirements include an up-to-date resume demonstrating your work experience, if any. You are also required to pay the application fee by check. Application fees vary from one law school to another.

Tags: accredited school, admission into, schools require, accredited school must, accredited schools, accredited schools require, applicants have

Be Considered For A Pulitzer Prize

The Pulitzer Prize is one of the highest honors in the world for writers, playwrights and composers. Here's be considered for one.

Instructions

1. Distinguish yourself as a writer, particularly in journalism - the main category of the Pulitzer Prize. Other categories include the novel, poetry, biography, political cartooning, news photography and musical composition.

2. Get an entry form from The Pulitzer Prize Office, 709 Journalism, Mail Code 3865, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027. Or call (212) 854-3841.

3. Get your entry together. Guidelines differ for each of the categories, but for all categories, you'll need to include a $50 entry fee.

4. Prepare the following for a journalism entry: an entry form, an "exhibit" (in scrapbook form), including clippings from your publications in the relevant newspaper, a personal photograph and a personal biography.

5. Prepare the following for a book entry: an entry form, a personal photograph, a personal biography and four copies of the book.

6. Prepare the following for a drama entry: an entry form, a personal photograph, a personal biography, dates and places of production and six copies of the manuscript.

7. Prepare the following for a music entry: an entry form, a personal photograph, a personal biography, a score of the work, a recording of the work and a note describing the length and instrumentation of the work.

8. Send your materials by the deadline, which varies from category to category, to the address given on the entry form. Don't forget to include the $50 handling fee.

Tags: entry form, entry entry, entry entry form, personal biography, personal photograph

Finish A Dissertation On Time

It's easy enough to start writing a dissertation. The real challenge is finishing it before the next ice age!

Instructions

1. Choose a well-defined and realistic topic (see "Choose a Topic for a Dissertation").

2. Apply for as many dissertation write-up fellowships as you can. Keep in mind that this requires a lot of early planning.

3. Set a reasonable deadline for yourself that takes into account whether or not you'll be working while writing. If it's an unrealistic deadline, you'll end up disappointing yourself by not meeting it.

4. Write down your deadline on a calendar.

5. Set shorter deadlines for each chapter, and mark these down, too.

6. Check the nearest deadline after each day's work to see how you're progressing and to remind yourself of what you still need to do.

7. Prioritize if you're up against a deadline; cut out that extra TV show or that leisurely chat on the phone. If it looks like you might have difficulty meeting a deadline, talk with your advisors about it as early as possible.

8. Remind your advisors to assist in keeping your nose to the grindstone. Some advisors, if not reminded in this way, will find ways to make your project grow instead of shrink.

9. Don't let the size of the project discourage you. Take it in small pieces, remembering the sage advice that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

Tags: your advisors

Join The Poland Army

The Polish army has four divisions: land forces, air forces, navy and special forces, according to the army's website. Each division requires specialized training through acceptance into the appropriate academy in Poland.

Instructions

1. Decide which division of the Polish army is right for you by gathering as much research as you can from the army's website.

2. Complete a medical examination.

3. Gather all documents required by the Polish army, including a photo ID, medical examinations results and school transcripts.

4. Visit the academy or training school of your choice to apply. Depending on your completed level of education, you have a choice of a three-year program resulting in a bachelor's degree or a two-year program resulting in a master's degree.

5. Visit the website of your chosen Polish army academy if you prefer to apply online. You will be asked to supply personal information and will be guided through the process. All necessary documentation will need to be mailed to the academy or delivered in person.

6. Wait for a decision from the Polish army. Upon acceptance, you may be asked to provide more information or documentation, which will lead to training or registration for the upcoming school semester.

Tags: Polish army, army website, program resulting

Use Sq3r To Improve Distance Learning Skills

Distance learning can be enhanced through the correct application of SQ3R reading methods.

Educators and students alike are concerned with student retention and understanding of a course's reading material. Students must read, understand, interpret and apply concepts they learn from textbooks. Since distance learning may have a stronger reliance on written materials rather than lectures or educational activities common in traditional education, students and instructors must be vigilant in ensuring that the written material is accessible and understood. The SQ3R technique can help to ensure that the textbook and other written materials clearly convey their intended content and are comprehensible to the readers. The term SQ3R is an acronym that reminds students to "survey, question, read, recite and review."

Instructions

1. Survey the writing to understand purpose, main ideas and create a framework for learning. In this step, students look for cues by scanning pictures, looking for bold print, titles and subtitles and locating questions within the material. Students can also benefit by reading the first and last sentences in paragraphs to clearly identify the main ideas. Distance learning students set concrete goals in surveying the material by identifying three to six main points in the work or chapter.

2. Generate questions about the material from the survey. Jot down questions that come to mind as the material is scanned. These questions are created from visual aids, titles or headings. Try to develop open-ended questions beginning with "what," "how," and "why" rather than questions that require only a positive or negative response -- avoid yes or no questions. Ask both general and specific questions, such as "what is the piece about" and "in what particular ways is this information important." Students may also benefit from rephrasing subheadings into question format.

3. Read the material with these questions in mind. Students may now focus their attention on the most important aspects of the writing. By focusing on their own questions, students can read to answer them. Distance learning students should remember to phrase both their questions and their answers to these questions using their own words rather than those of the author. Using their own words forces students to process and analyze the information, resulting in better comprehension and retention of the material. This aspect of SQ3R helps distance learning students to be active rather than passive learners.

4. Recite the questions and the answers aloud. Again, distance learning students should use their own words when completing this step in the process to ensure that they are active readers engaged in the learning process rather than passive recipients of content from written materials. In situations or locations where reading aloud is not an option, students can write the questions and answers several times to help reinforce the ideas.

5. Review the questions and answers immediately. Distance learning students often work at their own pace and need to self-evaluate their own understanding of the material. Students can cover their answers and quiz themselves, checking to see if they respond correctly to the questions. Students should also review the material again within 24 hours, again after a week and again after a month to reinforce learning and maintain retention of the content.

Tags: learning students, rather than, Distance learning, material Students, questions answers

Does Bankruptcy Cover Student Loans

All bankruptcy cases are heard in federal court.

Bankruptcy is a legal process designed to provide honest but unfortunate debtors the opportunity for a fresh financial start. There are a number of different types of bankruptcy that are available to debtors, but the two most common forms for individuals are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Both types of bankruptcy provide for a discharge of debts, but with rare exceptions, neither will discharge a student loan.

Type of Loan

There are two primary types of student loans: federal student loans, such as those made under the Perkins loan program, and private student loans. The factor that determines if a student loan qualifies for discharge under bankruptcy proceedings is whether the loan qualifies as a tax deduction. Loans that qualify as a tax deduction are not eligible for discharge under any chapter of the bankruptcy code, regardless of whether or not the debtor claimed the deduction on his tax return.

Chapter 7

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the most common type of bankruptcy filed by individual debtors. It is sometimes referred to as a straight or liquidation bankruptcy. The debtor's non-exempt assets are turned over to a court-appointed trustee. The trustee liquidates these assets and distributes the proceeds to creditors to satisfy their claims. Once all distributions are made, the bankruptcy judge may declare the debts discharged, which means the debtor no longer has a legal obligation to repay them. Provisions of the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 make both federal and private student loans ineligible for discharge through Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Chapter 13

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is sometimes referred to as the wage earner's plan because it is available to debtors who are gainfully employed but unable to meet all of their obligations. Individuals who file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy protection are allowed to keep their assets while a court-appointed trustee works out a repayment plan that typically lasts from three to five years. Student loans may be included in the repayment plan, which may significantly reduce the amount of the debtor's monthly payments. Student loans cannot be discharged at the end of the repayment plan along with other debts, and the debtor will still be obligated to repay the remainder of his student loans.

Undue Hardship

In rare instances a bankruptcy judge may grant a discharge of student loans based on undue hardship to the borrower or the borrower's dependents. Debtors must prove that although they have made an honest attempt to repay their student loans, they are unable to do so and still maintain a minimum standard of living. They must also demonstrate that their current financial situation is unlikely to significantly improve in the future. Requests for discharge due to undue hardship must be made in a separate motion. Undue hardship is difficult to prove unless the debtor is physically not capable of working, according to Sallie Mae.

Tags: Chapter bankruptcy, student loans, Chapter Chapter, repayment plan, available debtors

Get Into Collins College For Gaming Design

Collins College in Phoenix, Arizona offers an undergraduate game production program.

Gaming Design, a discipline within the The School of Interactive Media & Technology, is just one of the undergraduate programs offered at Collins College in Phoenix, Arizona. Gaming design is an exciting field that offers opportunities in the gaming industry. Although highly competitive, gaming design gives gamers the opportunity to make a hobby into a career. Collins College requires potential applicants to meet certain standards before admission.

Instructions

Be Accepted Into Collins College's Game Production Program

1. Visit Collins College during the summer before your senior year. While the college is small (1400 students as of 2009), it is an inner-city school. On-campus housing isn't available which means, if you don't live in Phoenix, you'll probably be living in off-campus housing. You need to decide if you're comfortable living in an urban setting. During your visit, schedule an appointment with an admissions representative and ask for a copy of the admissions application. Not only is this a time to map out deadlines and a checklist of required documentation for the application process, it's also an ideal opportunity to ask questions about the department and college student life.

2. Prepare documentation listed on your checklist. Collins College requires proof of high school completion. A high school diploma is preferable but they will accept a copy of a General Educational Development (GED) Certificate. If you haven't taken your SATs (Standardized Aptitude Test) or American College Testing Exam (ACT), schedule a test date through Collegeboard's website. If you want test scores to be sent directly to the school, record the college's college code during the test. As of 2010, the college code is 2174.

3. Complete an online application. Though admissions into Collins College is not considered competitive, many colleges recommend you apply to more than one. In addition, you should take your time completing the application and any essays. As a high school student, you may love the idea of designing computer games, but college courses require a more rigorous level of analysis, research and inquiry during the study process. Completing the application is practice for life as a college student. Save the online application between pages, in case you lose internet connectivity.

4. Complete a financial aid application at the same time as the admissions application. In-state tuition, as of 2009 was listed as $34,067 not including room, board, books and supplies. Approximately 87 percent of the student population received some form of financial aid through the State of Arizona. With such a high percentage of students filing for financial aid, students are urged to file a financial aid form during the admissions process.

5. Schedule a personal interview with the Department of Admissions. Collins College application process is an inclusive one. This means that not just one criteria is used in judging a candidate. A face-to-face interview can do much to sway the admissions department's decision, especially if your academic transcript or SAT/ACT scores aren't stellar.

Tags: Collins College, high school, admissions application, application process, college code

List Of Educational Grants For Middle School

List of Educational Grants for Middle School

To combat the rising cost of education, grants are a great way for educators and school systems to obtain the academic resources they need. Grants vary in amount, purpose and eligibility, but dozens are readily available for educators.

Indian Education-Demonstration Grants for Indian Children

This government-sponsored program affords educational opportunities to preschool, elementary and secondary school Indian children by developing effective school programs. The grant is funded by the U.S. Department of Education: Office of Indian Education. Application for this grant opened December 3 and closes February 18, 2010. The grant is available to Indian tribes or organizations, in consortium with education institutes and Bureau of Indian Affairs-funded schools.

Lowe's Outdoor Classroom Grant Program

As part of Lowe's Charitable and Educational Foundation, the Lowe's Outdoor Classroom Grant Program offers assistance for K-12 schools to build a new outdoor classroom or to enhance a current outdoor classroom. The program will award grants up to $2,500 to at least 100 schools. The grant is available for tax-exempt schools or districts.

Motorola Foundation: Innovation Generation Grant

Motorola's Innovation Generation Grants support pre-K through 12 programs that cultivate student innovators by making science, technology, engineering and math accessible for all. Through these grants, the Motorola Foundation gives $5 million annually to organizations that inspire through technology U.S. students, especially girls and underrepresented minorities. Grant applicants may request up to $75,000. Any U.S. non-profit schools and school districts may apply.

Tags: Classroom Grant, Classroom Grant Program, Educational Grants, Educational Grants Middle, grant available

Find Great But Less Expensive Colleges

You want the best school for your child's education or your own but you have to be conscious of the rising costs of colleges. You don't want to settle for second best and you really don't have to. There are a lot of great affordable colleges and universities, if you know what to look for and find them.

Instructions

1. Make your decision on a major later and save on tuition. There are many schools that are recognized for their excellence in the field of Liberal Arts. This is what every student starts out taking anyway while fulfilling their core courses. You can go to a great liberal arts school for the first two years and then transfer to one that is excellent in the field you've chosen to pursue. You will still get your diploma from the four year institution even as a transfer student.

2. Compare schools by their location. Schools found in the South and the Southwest usually have the least expensive tuition and fees. The cost of living off campus is much cheaper as well. The schools in the Northeast have the highest tuition and fees. The northwest and central states lie in the middle of the two where costs are concerned. Look at the schools in the least expensive areas first and see if you can find a terrific school program that you like.

3. Investigate the cost factors involved by population. College life in the city is always the mot expensive as city life is higher period. The suburban areas are less pricey but colleges that are tucked out of the way in more rural settings are usually the cheapest places to live and go to school. Apartment costs, gasoline, food, and school costs always go up with the population, so choose a more rural setting for cost effectiveness.

4. Search locally. The colleges and universities in the state where you live usually offer huge discounts to in state students. Check out their programs and the kind of financial aid they offer. Remember that most schools have programs where students can work on campus and receive a deal on their expenses, too.

5. Do some internet research. Look for the top colleges in your field of study. Look at the lowest priced campuses. Check out the greatest degree of financial help available. Don't rule out scholarships. They're given for many things besides academic excellence and they can really help financially.

6. Use the college match maker program online. There is no cost to use this service. It will help you to narrow down your search for affordable education choices in your field of study and your area of choice to live in.

Tags: colleges universities, field study, least expensive, more rural, tuition fees, your field

Pass An Exam

Studying for the exam

Whenever you are about to take an exam, you may feel very anxious. It is understandable to feel that way. You can lessen your anxiety by taking the apropriate steps to ensure that you pass your exams. Follow these guidelines to get you started.

Instructions

1. Preparation is the key to success. Prepare for your exam, before entering the exam room. Recite the questions aloud and try to answer them without looking in the book. You can also ask a friend to ask you some of the questions to test your preparedness.

2. When studying for an exam, read the information thoroughly. Use the examples that are pertaining to the exam questions, to guide you. Sometimes you may have difficulty understanding a question, but by looking at a few examples, it may slowly come to you. Research your exam topic well. The library and the internet are great places to do your research.

3. Get enough rest the night before the exam. Lack of sleep can affect your memory. It is difficult to remember things when you are sleep deprived. Discipline yourself to stop all activities at a certain time of the night, so that you can get enough sleep.

4. If your instructor have a practice session in class, use a small tape recorder to tape the session. Make sure that you take notes. The notes should be something that you can understand and can refer to, during your exam study.

5. Do not procrastinate. Move studying to the top of your priority list. Decline offers to go hang out or to stay up late before the night of your exam.

6. Keep yourself stress free. Do not allow stress to interfere with your studies. Avoid stressful situations, by all means. Doing breathing exercises can help you to relieve stress.

7. Make little notes and bring them along with you, wherever you are going. For example, bring it to the doctor's office or to the salon. Whenever you get a spare moment, take a quick look to refresh your memory.

Tags: your exam, your memory

Write A Biography To Win A Scholarship

Applying for scholarships is a viable way of making college more affordable, and there are ways to up your chances of winning them by knowing what information you need to submit. According to College Board, in 2007 the average cost of a public four-year college was $6,500 dollars a year; a private university averaged more than $25,000. Learn write an effective biography, and you'll have a much better chance of earning one or more scholarships.

Instructions

1. Make a list of your attributes, separating them into four columns: school, extracurricular, volunteering and work. Place items such as grades, school clubs and athletics into the first column; private lessons, scouting, camps attended and league sports go into the second. Things you did to help out at your church or in your community go into the third column, and in the fourth, list any work experience, including company, position, duties and the time frame in which you held the position.

2. Ask your parents, teachers and friends if they have anything to add to your lists. Often, you will do things that you take for granted (such as cutting an elderly neighbor's lawn) and not realize it can become part of your biography.

3. Write a draft of your biography in outline form, just as you would an English paper. This will help you put the items in a logical order and make your bio read smoother. Start your outline by writing the Roman numerals I through IV and place each column title next to the Roman numeral in the same order as they are on your list, then write your list attributes in their section in the order you feel they are most significant in your life.

4. Type your scholarship biography into a word processing document, writing a brief sentence about each subject title and then listing your accomplishments in a bullet list. Make sure you run a grammar and spelling check when you're finished. This format will allow you to either print your bio or cut and paste it into an online application.

5. Take your finished version to your English teacher and ask them to proofread your biography before you submit it. This will give you the critique of an expert eye and help you avoid simple mistakes; it will also make your teacher feel a sense of accomplishment to see the results of his teaching.

Tags: your biography, make your, This will, your list