Debate is a part of many high schools and colleges. It may be taught as a class unto itself or it may be an extra-curricular activity which could even garner a varsity letter jacket in some schools. Students with a wide range of interests are encouraged to join debate teams so that they might become better public speakers, logical thinkers, and better citizens in general. At the high school level, debate is a terrific opportunity for students to engage in a team activity that also stimulates their intellectual selves. They use their debate experience to represent their schools in much the same way that the football or basketball teams do. At the college level, debate teams are a great opportunity for student participation but can also inform their studies and even career aspirations. Pre-law students, for instance, will benefit greatly from the practice in forming and defending positions, including positions to which they may be personally opposed.
Table of ContentsTypes of Debate Topics
What Are the Key Elements of a Debate?The key elements of a debate are the proposition, the parties, speeches, judges, and the final decision. Debate relies on the proposition to give each team a thesis to research and defend. Teams are usually given one side of a contentious subject that they must defend whether they agree with it or not. The idea is to argue a point free from personal feelings or beliefs. Each debate is comprised of two parties. One party argues the affirmative side of an issue and their opposition argues the contrary. For instance, one party may argue for representative taxation while the other could argue against it. Debate tournaments may be structured so that the parties have a certain make up in terms of number or other consideration. Parties express their view on their given proposition by way of speeches. Each team is given a set amount of time and they may incur deductions for exceeding the time constraints. Judges often score speeches based on public speaking ability. Judges are sought who can be impartial and evaluate each team's performance regardless of whether they agree with their conclusions. Since its nearly impossible for judges to be objective, there is rarely, if ever, a single judge. Rather, their final decision is reached by way of tallying each score card. The team with the most points, wins. What Makes a Good Debate Topic?A good debate topic is often in the eye of the beholder. However, when debate organizers consider certain guidelines, the topics they choose are those most likely to stimulate lively debate. For one thing, each topic should have clear sides drawn. That is, a topic that inspires people to take one side or the other. There may be shades of gray on either side, but there is a clear pro and a clear con side to the subject. Another characteristic of a good debate topic is timeliness. Students are often eager to research and argue over topics that are currently in the news. It can help if these topics are close to their individual experience. This is so that students can become practiced in arguing issues with the least amount of emotion possible. It's also important for students to argue sides of an argument which they may initially disagree with. Again, the educational goal of debate is to have students focus on using facts and reason to override their emotion. Good debate topics should also be relatively easy to research. This is especially pertinent in a round of spontaneous argumentation. Topics in those rounds should come from current events or hot topics of the day. Thus, supporting facts for either side should be a quick internet search away. However, when it comes to topics given in advance, topics should be more complex and require deeper research and analysis. How Do You Choose a Debate Topic?When it comes time to choose a debate topic, students should seek out topics that have two clear pro/con sides, that have ample resources available, and which are pertinent to contemporary times. Strong topics often inspire heated debate and high emotion and thus the lines of dissension should be easy to determine. This not only provides each side with clear parameters for their arguments but also helps them anticipate the arguments they will have to counter. For those who may be at a loss for suitable debate topics, there are a few pointers that can help them stimulate a great debate. In the search for a good debate topic, current events can be a great help. For even more direction, it's recommenced to review current opinion/editorial writing in local or national publications. Reading through few of these pieces will help debate organizers determine which topics are meaty and complex enough for their debate competition. When organizers wish to present a more difficult topic for debate, it may be necessary to review current scientific, legal, or philosophical journals for ideas. This approach allows organizers to find the finer points of an argument. Rather than simply ask whether or not drugs should be legal, the topic could focus on whether the war on drugs has disproportionately impacted minorities or not. Judges should also check their own thoughts and feelings regarding topics. They might be prone to select topics about which they already have set feelings and beliefs. This sort of bias can work against the competitors and should be avoided. Perhaps one way to avoid this problem is for judges to select topics at random, as in choosing topics from a hat. They can then take the chosen topics and evaluate them independently. Since debate teams are limited by time, judges should take this into consideration. They should select topics that are sufficiently complex to warrant the time allotted. They might even find topics that may, in fact, need twice the time provided. This way, debate competitors will need to discern the most important facts and arguments to focus on. What are the Basic Rules of Debate?Each debate shall be comprised of two teams, each presenting an opposing side of an issue or topic. Each team is given equal time to present two or three speeches in which to build their case, and an equal number with which to rebut their opposition. Since the affirmative begins the debate, they also are allowed to deliver the last speech. If there are multiple rounds, teams should be given equal opportunity to argue the affirmative position. In the event of a cross-examination portion of the debate, questioners must ask clear, direct, and relevant questions. Upon completing a speech, the speaker shall be questioned immediately with no time to confer with teammates. Judges shall weigh their decisions using only the arguments, facts, and other materials submitted by the teams. If they have other materials that were not addressed, those shall not be part of their decision-making process. Debate Categories and Topics
The Best Debate Topics for High School and College Students was first seen published on University HQ at https://universityhq.org/resources/college-planning-guide/good-debate-topics/
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Are you considering earning a degree but are uncertain what major to pursue? Your area of study may be less important than you would expect. In fact, opting to earn an easy college degree may be the best solution, especially if you are not planning to enter a specific field. Careers in general administration or retail, for example, often require an advanced education but do not necessitate a specific focus. A degree of any kind will usually be sufficient. It’s actually quite common for prospective students to choose a major that relates to a vocation they are not planning to pursue. This is because there are numerous benefits to earning a degree that are not career specific. An advanced education opens up a wide variety of opportunities that can lead to more overall happiness and stability later in life. Earning a degree of any kind often sets a strong foundation for greater personal and professional success. Table of ContentsBenefits of Earning Any College DegreeRegardless of major, there are numerous benefits associated with earning any college degree. Some of the most prominent reasons to pursue a degree include making more money, expanding your knowledge base, obtaining better career opportunities, and achieving job security. Many people opt to earn a degree because they want to earn more money. While many fields offer entry-level employment to those without a higher education, most employers do offer graduates bigger salaries. This is particularly true for master and doctorate level degrees which most frequently lead to management and executive positions. According to PayScale, bachelor’s degree graduates earn an average yearly salary of around $63,800, while master’s degree graduates make an average of $76,000 per year. This is significantly higher than the average $15 per hour that high school diploma recipients and certificate-holders make. In 2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that full-time workers aged 25 and older who lacked degrees had median weekly earnings of $749, while workers with bachelor’s degrees had median weekly earnings of $1,281. Degree graduates also enjoy better career opportunities. Colleges and universities design their curriculums, as well as all on-campus regulations and activities, to enhance student development. Regardless of major, anyone attending an institution is likely to attain and hone a wide range of skills that can be utilized in various fields. Employees who possess degrees are also commonly considered more valuable in the workplace, effectively increasing job security. While many benefits relate to gaining employment after graduation, many others are more relevant in personal aspects of life. Other benefits include strong career outlook, decent financial compensation, and easily transferrable skills that create competitive candidates in the job market. In fact, there are possibly as many, if not more, personal reasons to attend college. Students often benefit from networking with peers, taking on leadership positions, experiencing alternative perspectives, developing new personal philosophies, and traveling through campus activities and study-abroad programs. Additionally, it is common to establish significant and lasting relationships with other students, staff, and faculty members while attending college. What Makes a College Degree Easy?Finding an easy college degree can be quite simple, although the results of any study on the matter would, by nature, be subjective. Something that seems easy to you may not be so simple for another person. This is why it is necessary to research options thoroughly before deciding to enroll in a program. Consider using the following information to find the best solution for you:
What to Consider When Choosing a DegreeThere are several factors you should consider when looking for a degree program. Every college and university is unique. By comparing and contrasting important features, you can more easily determine which institution suits your needs best. Some of the most significant aspects include prospective career opportunities, salary projections, job outlooks, and possible work environments. You can also pull inspiration from your own natural talents, personal passions, and subjects of greatest interest. Again, you should consider avoiding subjects you are likely to have the most trouble with. Ultimately, one of the most significant factors to consider is how much effort you are willing to put into pursuing an education. Earning an associate degree typically requires two years, whereas bachelor’s degrees generally take four years and master’s degrees take an additional two years to complete. Your options will vary depending on your dedication to achieving your academic and career goals. Easiest College Degree ProgramsWhile the process of determining which college degrees are easiest is fairly subjective, it is possible to identify which majors are generally the most difficult. Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) graduates have some of the lowest GPAs. Humanities and social science majors, on the other hand, trend towards the highest GPAs among academic disciplines. Based on this, some of the easiest college programs include:
Easy Majors for Students with Specific TalentsIt’s also important to realize that some majors will seem easy for certain people if they possess a particular talent or long-standing interest in them. Choosing a degree base on these factors is, of course, completely subjective. Consider your skills and passions carefully before deciding which program suits your academic and career aspirations best. You can start this process by thinking about which subject areas you were most proficient in during high school and making a list of all your extracurricular activities. It may also prove beneficial to speak with some of your past teachers and/or the school guidance counselor for assistance in pinpointing which areas suit you best.
Post was first published on University HQ at Easy College Majors to Get a Degree Incoming college students are usually so preoccupied with selecting a major field of study that they overlook another important academic decision: whether to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. While some institutions offer predominately one or the other, many schools allow students to choose between the two. When deciding the right course for your future, you should carefully consider long-term academic and professional goals. Your aspirations will directly impact which option will serve you best. However, some disciplines only have one type of program, in which cases students should seek the degree type most appropriate for their future careers.
What is the Difference Between a BA and BS?BA and BS degrees differ in a few key ways, but the primary variance that impacts students most is focus. While BA students generally take courses that focus on the humanities and arts, BS students will enroll in more math and science-related classes. A liberal arts education offers a lot for individuals interested in philosophy, literature, history, social sciences, art, and foreign language study. Math and science coursework may also be required, but only to a limited degree. Vocational or technical education, however, deals much more strictly with actionable, data-driven processes and research. This difference is significant, as it can dictate your ultimate career path. Psychology majors, for example, with a BA degree are more likely to become counselors, whereas psychology majors with a BS degree will find work in behavioral research. While both degrees technically prepare students for further education, BS students will have more experience with the statistics and research methods necessary to earn a PhD in psychology. As a result, BS students tend to have far fewer opportunities to explore topics outside of their majors. The goal of a BA degree, on the other hand, is to encourage exposure to multiple facets of the academic world. BS degrees are often offered in technical and scientific areas, such as:
BA degrees are often offered in various liberal arts areas, such as:
It’s important to note that both degree types have the same graduation requirements. Whether you choose to enroll in a BA or BS program, you will have to complete approximately 120 credit hours of coursework, which equates to about 40 classes. What’s the Overlap?As previously mentioned, there are some disciplines that offer both BA and BS degree options. Some of the best examples of this are psychology, accounting, and business major programs. If you are interested in one of these fields, then it’s likely that you will need to choose between the two options. While the BA experience may be broader in scope, opting for this degree type may not change your experience too much. In most cases, BA and BS degree programs consist of the same core classes. This means the majority of coursework will actually be identical. The difference primarily comes into play when selecting classes beyond the core curriculum. Those working towards a BA degree, for example, must complete major core classes in addition to earning elective credits in English, social sciences, and foreign language. BS students, on the other hand, will have fewer electives and less flexibility so the majority of coursework is directly linked to the field of study. Do Employers Prefer a BS or BA Degree?Degree partialities largely depend on discipline standards. Some professions expect employees to hold a BS instead of a BA, while others give preference to BA graduates. Company-wide perspectives, as well as the individual perceptions of hiring managers, can also have an impact. While researching your prospective field can help you make the best decision possible, it’s not uncommon to cross paths with professionals with opposite viewpoints. Fortunately, job candidates often have an opportunity to highlight how their degree choices can benefit their work performance either way during the interview process. There are a few additional aspects worth considering, however. According to Emolument, a global provider of crowdsourced pay data, BS graduates tend to earn more money during the first 10 years of their careers. This is because technical skills are in high demand. In this early stage, the gap can be quite significant, with those with BS degrees making as much as 17% more than those with BA degrees. The trend changes drastically later, however, with BS degree-holders making less than BA graduates later in their careers. This change is largely attributed to the fact that most higher-paid positions are in administration, management, and strategy. Professionals with these jobs depend less on technical knowledge and more on abilities commonly honed during a BA degree program such as communication, interpersonal skills, leadership, and critical thinking. That said, BS graduates do tend to enjoy more employability. Those with BS degrees often work in high-demand fields, so it’s not uncommon for them to find jobs right away. The process can take longer for BA graduates, especially if they are competing for positions in disciplines that are already overly saturated with applicants. Ultimately, the reputation of the college or university you graduate from will likely be more significant than your degree type. What Fields Might This Affect?There are several subjects that can be taught in a BA or BS format. While every college and university is different, some of the most common fields impacted by this include:
For most of these majors, BA programs will place a greater focus on theory, while the BS programs provide more practical training. Generally, your choice between the two options comes down to your future career goals as well as your personal preference. If you are interested in one of these fields, spend time researching employment standards before finalizing your enrollment. Additionally, you can compare the two core curriculums to determine which courses are required under each designation. This can make a huge different if there are specific classes you want or do not want to take. Most colleges and universities do a good job providing detailed information regarding how their BA and BS programs differ. Many even provide a list of common employment opportunities available after graduation to help make the decision easier. Which One Should You Choose?Both BA and BS degrees are credible and offer exceptional opportunities for graduates, assisting them in accomplishing their academic and career goals. Either will qualify you for employment and help you stand out as a viable candidate. This means that, ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference. In addition to considering your career goals, it’s also smart to keep your own academic strengths in mind. What kind of classes do you enjoy taking most? Are there areas you struggle with? Common requirements for a BA degree include credits in foreign language, English, humanities, and liberal arts, whereas BS programs generally consist of science-based courses, science labs, information technology, and mathematics. Based on your prior academic experiences, you probably have a good idea which of these class types and subjects will be particularly easy or difficult for you. You can set yourself up for success by choosing the degree that best suits your personal abilities and interests. Personal growth is also important, however, so it may be beneficial to select the option that will help mold you into the best version of your future self. Consider which skills you wish to develop most and choose the degree type that places emphasis on them. BA degrees tend to hone communication, writing, language, critical thinking, and leadership skills, while BS degrees enhance analytical reasoning, technical know-how, problem-solving, mathematical knowledge, and work habits. The following blog post Which is a Better Degree: BA or BS? was originally published live on University HQ Are you considering applying for a position as a resident assistant? If you are interested in helping other students become acclimated to living on a college campus, working as a resident assistant may be an incredible opportunity for personal and professional growth. People in these positions play a key role in student life, serving as an important source of information, guidance, and support. While the job can be demanding, time consuming, and challenging, assisting others in this capacity is often extremely rewarding. Resident assistants generally have numerous opportunities to build leadership skills and are often role models and allies for the general student population. It’s important to keep in mind that some colleges and universities use the terms resident assistant and resident advisor interchangeably. In both cases, the common abbreviation is RA.
What is a Resident Assistant?Resident assistants live and work in college and university residence halls. While they are students themselves, they take on additional responsibilities that are intended to enhance the experiences of others living on campus. They have many associated duties, but their ultimate goal is to help support residents in achieving academic success, social development, and personal growth. This is generally done by facilitating various kinds of programs and experiences for community members to participate in. Teamwork is an essential component of working successfully in the residence life field. They commonly work and collaborate with other students and professionals across the entire campus. In fact, RAs regularly interact with campus security, custodians, faculty, and staff members. Depending on institution regulations, RA positions can be held by undergraduate and/or graduate students. Each college and university also set qualifications for applicants. These vary, but generally include the following:
Who is Your Boss?Not every academic institution manages their residential life department the same way. Each campus community is different, so it’s important to become familiar with your college or university’s structure before applying to become a resident assistant. Resident assistants generally report directly to individuals holding the title of Resident Director (RD) or Residence Hall Director (RHD). These positions may be held by graduate students or by entry-level professionals. Whereas RAs oversee a particular group of residents on a single floor or wing, RDs and RHDs are often responsible for supervising several RAs in a particular building or region on campus. The RA position is unique, however, because it often requires working with staff and administration members at every level. While they may be supervised by a single RD or RHD, it is common for individuals in these positions to interact with other department directors. In fact, RAs are regularly given opportunities to meet and work with the Director of Housing and Residence Life, the Dean of Students, and even the institution’s president. Duties and ResponsibilitiesThe resident assistant position is multifaceted and requires several different skillsets. Because RAs live where they work, it is not uncommon for them to be the first to respond to a wide variety of situations. This means they must be prepared for almost anything to happen, which requires extensive training throughout the year. RAs also receive consistent supervision and support through regular one-on-one meetings with RDs or RHDs. These meetings provide time to evaluate personal performance, ask questions, share student concerns, and review new expectations. Duties and responsibilities can generally be broken into the following categories:
What it’s NotWhile there are a number of benefits associated with becoming a resident assistant, it’s important to realize that the job is not for everyone. It requires a strong dedication to campus standards and regulations, which must be followed and enforced at all times. A common misconception is that RAs have the freedom to bend and break the rules as they see fit. This is not the case. Working in this capacity is often considered a privilege on campus, so even minor infractions are rarely tolerated. In fact, many colleges and universities include clauses in RA contracts that give them the authority to terminate policy offenders’ positions and remove them from campus housing entirely. Pros and ConsAs mentioned previously, every college and university structures their housing and residence life departments differently. This means each school will have its own set of advantages and disadvantages associated with the resident assistance position. Take time to learn as much as you can about the job to ensure it fits well with your capabilities, interests, and goals. Some of the most common pros and cons include: Pros
Cons
Salary ExpectationsEvery college and university structures payment for resident assistants differently. As previously stated, many departments offer some sort of housing incentive. This can range from a moderate discount to full coverage of all room and board expenses. Additionally, it is also not uncommon for RAs to receive some sort of monthly payment for their services. While they are never paid hourly, the compensation provided can make a significant impact on the cost of attending higher education institutions. Some packages, including housing and meal plans, are valued at nearly $30,000 per year.
Why Take a Resident Assistant Job in College Read more on: Headquarters is courtesy of University HQ 14350 N 87th St #110 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 (800) 793-5011 Via https://universityhq.org/resources/college-planning-guide/college-resident-assistant/ You may already know this if you’ve been considering this college for a while, but Polk State College offers three different learning options: on-campus, hybrid, and online-only. The college doesn’t offer on-campus living, but you’ll will be able to easily attend school from another city in Florida or a different state, depending on what your degree plans are. As you consider your career plans, remember to think about the degree level you need, whether that’s an associate, bachelor’s, or just a certificate. PSC offers all of these options.
Overview of Polk State CollegeThe city of Winter Haven is small, so there may not be much of a nightlife if that’s what you’re looking for, but you’ll easily be able to get off campus and find some restaurants or bookstores to enjoy if you plan to live nearby. If you like getting out into nature, you’ll find several wildlife areas and preserves and the whole town is surrounded by small lakes. The student population is 10,591 with a student-to-faculty ratio of 24 to 1, which is somewhat high but includes students attending online. Still, you should be vigilant about contacting instructors quickly if you have questions about your classes. Another plus at this school is that you may be able to receive credit for pertinent life experiences you have had and you can choose to earn dual credits. If you chose to earn dual credit, you’ll get college credit at the same time that you earn a high school diploma. Finally, if you took your advanced placement (AP) exams and passed them, these can earn you college credits as well. General Information
Student EnrollmentTotal Students10,591Undergraduate 10,591 Graduate 0 Undergraduate StudentMale 3,707
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Tuition Cost & Financial AidThe total cost of one year of schooling at Polk State was $17,400 in a recent academic year. This is the total price and includes tuition (in-or out-of-state, which will change the cost somewhat), books, supplies, room and board in the form of rent, food, utilities, and other costs. However, your parents may not need to pay this entire cost. If you qualify for financial aid, this will shave a large portion of the cost off your eventual bill. Universities and colleges track what is called the average net price, which is the cost students pay on average after their financial aid is applied to their bill. This was $7,265 in a recent academic year, but your cost will depend on how much financial aid you are eligible for. This relies strongly on your family’s annual income. Most recently, families that made less than $30,000 paid around $9,756 and families that made between $48,001 and $75,000 paid around $10,053. About 72% (623) of first-time students in their freshman year qualified for financial aid. A smaller percentage (68%) received grants or scholarships averaging $5,385. And only 5% received institutional grants and scholarships averaging $1,775.
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AcademicsAt Polk State, the overall graduation rate of first-time, first-year students is 28%. This is quite low, but it does not include those students who transfer out and graduate from another institution, or those who must leave school for a time and come back to complete their degree later. If you are an on-campus student or if you are using the hybrid format, you should know that, if you experience a mix-up in your classes, you ay have the option to drop the on-campus class and add its online equivalent. In this way, you don’t run the risk of not graduating on time if the class you need is required for graduation and this is an excellent way to improve the flexibility of your class schedule. The five most popular degree programs are business, management, marketing and related support services; health professions and related programs; homeland security, law enforcement, firefighting and related protective services; education; and transportation and materials moving.
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6 year Graduation Rate Student Population TotalStudent Population 10,591Undergraduate 10,591 Graduate 0
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Outcome & SalaryAfter graduation, you may already have a job in your chosen career. That’s the plan at least. Graduate’s from Polk State College earn early-career salaries averaging just over $42,000 and by the time they reach their mid-career, their average salaries sit at around $74,600. Now, if you want to look at what that means over a period of time, these numbers mean that graduate’s 10-year earning potential may be $400,000. Their 20-year earning potential may increase to $1,146,000. Now, if you subtract the average 4-year cost of education ($19,060) from the 10- and 20-year potential totals, this can tell you the expected return on investment (ROI) from this education. It gives you a 10-year projected ROI of $370,940 and a 20-year projected ROI of $1,116,940. Some high school students may choose to go straight to work after graduation. Their national average salary sits at around $37,960 with, it’s true, no loans to repay. However, this makes their 10-year projected income $379,600 and their 20-year projected income around $759,200.
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The following blog post Polk State College Reviews and Ranking Awards was first published on University HQ. You may already have plans for your career and plenty of career goals. Maybe you are looking to work in a specific field, but you know you will need knowledge from an intersecting field. If you think you can handle two majors at once, which will take careful management, it might not be a bad idea to double major. You can make this decision by first asking yourself a few questions and answering them in writing to make sure you’ve really thought it through. If you know your upcoming career will be well-served by increasing your breadth of knowledge, or even if you are passionate about multiple fields, then a double major could give you the push to get into a truly rewarding field, but managing the assignments for both won’t be easy. Knowing this, would earning a double major be a realistic goal? Would it be worth all the extra effort? Or, would choosing one field for your major and the second for a minor be more workable? If, for instance, you are interested in social work and writing, it may be difficult to complete both of those as majors because they are so different. (This would also be a dual degree rather than a double major. This will be explained more in depth a little later.) However, you could major in social work and minor in journalism without adding an excessive number of credit hours required to graduate. Once you graduate, you may be in a position to work as a social worker and/or write about child/adult protective services practices and policies.
What is a Double Major?A double is one degree with two majors included. The student who has declared a double major has selected a primary major (such as Psychology or Social Work) along with a secondary major (such as Criminal Justice). In the primary major, the student has to complete every degree requirement, as shown on the curriculum page. For the secondary major, the student completes only the major courses that are listed on the curriculum page. Anything else, such as general education, advised or free electives, don’t always need to be taken. This may depend on the school attended. Some schools may require you to take all electives for your second major as well, especially if they are significantly different from one another. The general education courses will, of course, only need to be taken once no matter what school you attend. This cuts back significantly on the expected course load for a second major and may make it much less intimidating to consider. To qualify as a primary major, at least 50% of the major requirements have to be different from the requirements or discipline of the secondary major. What is a Dual Degree?Remember when I said that earning a social work degree and a writing degree would be a dual degree rather than a double major? That has to do with the fact that these are two totally different degrees. While psychology and social work, or even psychology and criminal justice, may have some overlapping electives, psychology and writing are nowhere close to each other. They fall within different departments and would therefore constitute a dual degree, whereas a major in social work and psychology would more likely fall under the umbrella of a double major. Before you decide to jump into a dual degree effort, you need to know whether it’s the right move for you. You’ll need to commit considerable time to studying for both degrees and passing the courses. You need to have the money to pay for each degree. Finally, you need to know what your career plans are so that you know your two degrees fit them. Also, it could take you an extra year or more to complete both degrees, especially if you are unwilling or unable to take extra credits each semester. What is the Difference Between a Dual Degree and Double Major?The largest difference between double and dual degrees is that students declaring double majors will combine two different majors into a single bachelor’s degree. You graduate with a single degree, say, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminal Justice. With a dual degree, students are actually working to earn two separate bachelor’s degrees. You could earn a Bachelor of Arts in Photography and a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences. Now, this could translate into nothing but a hobby and a career in biological sciences or you could work for National Geographic in one of the most coveted positions in the world. Students earning a double major will earn one diploma for both majors while students earning a dual degree will be awarded two diplomas. Students may apply the same courses in satisfying the requirements for both majors of a double major. In contrast, the student working toward a dual degree will take on a heavier course load to earn their second degree. By the time they graduate, they will have completed an average of at least 30 more credits over the required credits for the degree program that requires a lower number of credit hours. In rare instances, a student may have applied for a double major. However, they may have earned sufficient credits for a dual degree. If this happens, they will have to apply for dual bachelor’s degrees to be eligible to receive two diplomas. Because their academic records will be especially complex, they should go to their assistant dean’s office to fill out paper copies of two applications for graduation. To be eligible to earn a dual degree, students are required to be currently enrolled and still working toward their first bachelor’s degree. Pros and Cons of Double MajoringPros
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How to Double MajorIf you are considering a double major, you should begin to prepare long before actually declaring those majors. You must be in good standing with your university. Be aware that any classes you take to fulfill lower-division requirements may be repeated in each major; you will not be required to take those lower-division classes again for your second major. Also, the two majors you want should be in the same school (Sciences or Humanities, for instance).
Other OptionsChoosing a double major may not be an option for you due to the difficulty of your major. Despite any grand plans you want to realize, there is only so much one person can do. Or you may simply be curious about another degree field and want to take a look at it. If a double major isn’t realistic for you, consider applying for a minor. Instead of having to earn sufficient credits to complete another full major (up to 30 credit hours), a minor only requires you to satisfactorily complete 15 to 18 credit hours. The good thing about a minor is, you don’t have to choose from the same college (Arts and Sciences or another undergraduate college, for example). For instance, if you have played music since you were a young child and you want to learn more about a particular instrument, you could easily add a minor to your science major. You can ask your advisor about available minors. FAQDoes it cost more than usual to double major?If it takes you longer to graduate with a double major, you or your family will have to pay slightly more tuition for those added semesters you’ll be in school. Since most tuition is based on the number of credit hours you take in a semester, such as 15 for each half year, then taking more classes will, of course, increase your tuition costs. If you are partially responsible for your tuition, you may need to request more money in student loans. If your second degree program is more challenging, you may find that, in order to satisfy the degree requirements, you will have to stay in school for at least one more semester. How hard is it to double major?Adding significantly more credit hours and studying to your course load means that you are going to have to carefully juggle your classes and study time. Time management will be critical. You may need to sacrifice time with friends or even holidays you might usually spend at home. Can I graduate on time if I double major?Yes, you can. As long as you have completed all graduation requirements in your two majors, you can graduate on time. To have more assurance of completing both degrees, you should declare both majors within the posted deadlines. Adding minors or majors late in your academic career can certainly delay your graduation. What are the Best Double Major Combos?Biology/Neuroscience double major with Behavioral and Cognitive concentrationBiology allows you to develop a broad foundation that can lead you into many career fields, such as medicine. Neuroscience and a Behavioral and Cognitive concentration takes you deeper into one area of biology: neuroanatomy, perception, sensation, and memory. If you plan a career in medicine or psychology, this will be an excellent beginning for your future. Computer Information Systems/Accounting double majorThis combination allows you to keep your options open for either a career in information technology (IT) or accounting. Today’s IT specialists have begun to learn programming and computer languages that, should they decide on a career change, will help them understand the process and assist in building accounting programs. Such a double major also supports a future career in auditing, where an accounting professional works closely with every step of a company’s finance process. Ecosystem Science and Sustainability/Journalism and Media Communication double majorWith a love of the environment and sustainability as well writing and communications, you can easily create a niche for yourself once you graduate. Consider that, with your journalism degree, you’ll be an attractive prospect to an environmental organization that needs someone who can write with expertise on issues surrounding sustainability and the environment. The scientific nature of ESS, along with the creative aspect of journalism, mean you’ll be able to put your primary degree to good use. Marketing/Communication Studies double majorCombining a liberal arts secondary major with your primary business major means that, while you’ll be working in the trenches at first, in a few years you may be able to manage a public relations firm or work as a campaign manager for a political candidate. These two degrees complement each other because you’ll be able to use all of your skills in tandem. Accounting/Law double majorThis is a natural combination. Combining accounting, with its heavy focus on financial compliance regulations with a law degree gives you a unique ability to understand financial compliance regulations. If you plan to eventually earn a CPA, holding a juris doctor degree will make you highly attractive to law or accounting firms. You could even consider a concurrent JD/MBA program. The article, Does it Make Sense to Double Major, was originally seen on https://universityhq.org/degrees/bachelors/double-major-worth-it/ If you’re considering using the coalition or common application, you are likely either in high school or you have already graduated from high school. These applications will help you apply to attend a college. A major part of your preparations that most students try to complete first includes creating a list of colleges or universities you would like to attend. You can conduct research on each school you’re interested in so that you can narrow your list down to those universities or colleges which will provide you the education you want. You can make sure that each of these colleges has everything you want for your education and college experience, or you can include some schools that might have lower standards but are missing some of the things you were originally looking for, like a great gym or a specific club or fraternity you wanted to be a part of.
What is the Common Application?The Common Application is a non-profit organization that offers students a college application portal that they can use to apply to more than one college or university at the same time. Between 700 and 900 schools accept the Common App, which makes it much more convenient for you to send the same information to several universities; you won’t have to type out the same information over and over again, depending on which schools you’re interested in. Because this application program has been around a long time, many schools accept applications through it. The Common App allows you to list all of your extracurricular activities and it’s the same with your application essays; you are able to choose from a short list of essay questions. If you prefer, you can choose your own topic so that you can write an essay that is really your own. You’ll also be able to include your demographic information, parents’ information, your high school, and the classes you’re taking or have completed. By filling these questions out in the Common App, you’re able to send this basic info out to each school simultaneously without wasting hours performing basic data entry on each school’s individual application. Not every school you may be interested in uses the Common App; they may require their own application. However, some schools use the Common App exclusively. Either way, you’ll be busy enough in your last two years of school; the Common App makes your work easier. What is the Coalition Application?Noting that the Common App doesn’t proactively represent students of color or students in financial need, the Coalition App (formally called the Coalition for Access, Affordability and Success) strives to make the application process financially affordable for these students. The Common App and the Coalition App are both free for students to use, but students are still required to cover the application fee for each school they apply to. Because the Coalition App has only existed for the past five years, it isn’t accepted by as many colleges and universities as the Common App; it sends applications to 132 schools. However, the Coalition App is different from the Common App in that it requires colleges and universities to prove that they will provide “substantial” financial support via scholarships and grants to low income students and those who are underrepresented. Each app serves students in different ways. For those students who will require large financial aid packages, the Coalition App may end up being their best choice, while students who wish to send their application to many colleges may want to use the Common App because of its wider acceptance. Small private schools and any University of California school won’t accept either app. You’ll have to fill out each school’s applications separately for these colleges. What Do the Common and Coalition Apps Include?Both apps take time. With the Coalition App, you can create an account as a high school freshman. Here, you’ll store your documents in a Virtual Locker in preparation for applying to colleges as a high school junior or senior. Items you can store in your Locker include achievements and extracurricular activities You can also store family commitments, such as parents’ jobs or a caregiving commitment. This is one way you will be able to show that you and your family are working from a disadvantage that may block you from taking part in extracurricular activities that are school-based and track it over the course of your high school career. For instance, you may have to work and earn money for your family. The Common App makes it easier to collect and store all of your documentation; these include your high school transcripts, test scores and dates you took college entrance exams, academic achievements, a comprehensive list of your activities and responsibilities, and your parents’ or legal guardian’s information. Like the Common App, the Coalition App is web-based and allows you to fill out one main application so you can submit it to more than one school. The Coalition App focuses on making college affordable to every student; partner schools support the success of their students and offer a full financial aid package. It contains a fee waiver within the application which makes it easier for students to apply to multiple colleges without being kept back by finances. Both applications require you to complete your profiles before you can begin applying to various schools. They also allow you to request assistance from your guidance counselor if you need to obtain letters of recommendation or your high school transcript. Note: request their help early so they can get your documents submitted on time. Both apps should be filled out completely, which means you need to be as organized as you possibly can while you are working on your applications. Every college’s requirements, such as deadlines, are different. You may also want to request letters of recommendation from different teachers for different colleges. Both apps can save time for you if you complete your basic information in the same working session. By doing this, you’ll make better use of your time with your counselor on other tasks. Don’t forget about your college essays. You want to tell your story through your essays. In the Common App, you have the choice of personal essays, questions to answer for specific colleges, and writing supplements. The Coalition App guides you in asking yourself about your background, how you’ve grown, your academic interests, future goals, and ideas for changing the world around you. What Are the Differences Between the Applications?The largest difference is that the Coalition App is aimed more at students whose demographics (Black or Hispanic students) aren’t as well represented and who may also have larger financial needs. When the Coalition App was developed, it included a requirement that it would only accept universities and colleges that are able to show they provide a healthy amount of financial aid to low-income or underrepresented students. The Coalition App covers all eight Ivy League colleges as well as more prominent universities such as Johns Hopkins University, Duke University, Stanford University, and the University of Chicago. However, the Coalition App offers access to fewer colleges overall (132) than the Common App, which works with nearly 800 universities. The Common App is better-known. It allows students who are applying to more than one university to apply to up to 20 colleges. However, students must remember that each college may require different supplemental materials and an application fee if you aren’t eligible for a waiver. The Common App was available for students to use beginning in 1975, which was the first time students were able to fill out their personal information and other info just one time and apply to multiple schools. In 2015, the Coalition for Access, Affordability, and Success released the Coalition Application to students after developers decided that disadvantaged students and students of color needed more assistance to send in their application materials. The Coalition App focuses most on equality and diversity. Working class students are able to list and describe the commitments they face which keep them from taking part in clubs and extracurricular activities rather than ending up with a blank section because they were unable to take part. Is the Coalition App Meant to Replace the Common App?No. Each app offers something different to each student using it. If you live in a working-class or low-income family, you’ll benefit from using the Coalition App. If work or other commitments kept you from making the most of traditional extracurriculars that colleges often expect to see on a college application, this will help you bridge that gap. If you plan to apply to up to 20 colleges, the Common App best serves your plans. The decision isn’t an either/or unless you need a large amount of financial assistance. If you are looking for inclusion in a slightly rarified world as a Black or Hispanic student, the Coalition App will better fit your needs. Also, the Coalition App encourages students to begin creating and filling their “virtual locker” as freshmen rather than waiting and needing to find all your old documents when you become a senior. You’ll also be able to upload multimedia samples and writing samples over time. Three schools—University of Maryland-College Park, the University of Florida, and the University of Washington-Seattle accept only the Coalition App. Other universities accept both apps and some add supplemental requirements that are specific to that institution. In the end, which app you choose is your decision. However, you shouldn’t rule out the possibility of using both unless you have very specific needs. While the terms introvert and introvert may have been in use prior to his work, it was Austrian psychological pioneer Carl Jung who brought them to the forefront of the public consciousness. While his theories encompassed many aspects of human consciousness, his introversion/extraversion dichotomy was central to his thinking, as the former refers to an internal experience or phenomenon and the latter indicates things outside of a person. In more recent years, the Myers-Briggs Personality Type Inventory arose to expand on Jung's work and offered a diagnostic tool that added a bit of depth and detail to his work. When the test and variants hit the internet, everyone with a connection could take the test themselves and discover more about their personalities. Once armed with the results of their MBTI, students and workers can begin to tailor their job search to discover the best job for them. While extroverts can benefit from similar guidance, this page is for the introverts among us.
What is an Introvert?For whatever the reason, introverts often get a bad name. They are considered shy, timid, reclusive, and anti-social. However, everyone surely knows more than one introvert who can be the veritable life of the party. This is because there's a fundamental misunderstanding of what makes someone an introvert. Rather than indicating any sort of social phobia, the labels introversion/extroversion reflect how people generate and use their energy. In the case of an introvert, they may love being at parties and even the center of attention, but when the party is over their energies are depleted. That's when they might prefer to be at home with a cup of tea and a book. Extroverts, on the other hand are energized by external interactions and are likely restless and frustrated when home alone. Introverts may externalize this by only attending smaller functions, with close friends who don’t wear them out as much as socializing with near strangers. Still, introverts tend to have a rich inner life that fosters creativity and introspection. They also may tend to prefer to take a more quiet, subdued role than their noisy extroverted friends. This doesn’t mean that they contribute less to a work environment, only that they do it without all the hubbub. While those externally motivated folks are leaping ahead into situations, introverts are taking their time, observing, and making considered choices. Thus, they prefer to maintain a small group of intimate friends rather than taking on a large and bustling social life and they tend to be background supporters in a company rather than the face or presenter for a group. What Might an Introvert Appreciate in a Career?When introverts seek out employment, they tend to seek out positions which involve thoughtful analysis in quieter environments, where they can express themselves more easily. For this reason, fields such as engineering, editing, counseling, programming, academia, and the arts tend to appeal to introverts. Even some corners of law, politics, or marketing might appeal to introverts. Since introverts' energies are at their peak when they are left alone or with minimal interaction, they thrive in more project-oriented work environments, which require fewer meetings. For this reason, many introverts are found in fields like journalism. That may seem counter-intuitive, but these positions require that professionals interact with a few subjects, spend long hours doing research, and then write up their reports for publication. They might find a similar position with a public policy research firm or as freelance writers or editors. What Career Issues Might Cause Unhappiness or Burn-out for Introverts?Introverts need to be careful when they seek employment. There are certain positions that are less kind to these who are internally-oriented people. They tend to do less well in positions that are public-facing, and which involve a great deal of interaction with others, especially larger groups. Thus, red flag issues for introverts might include a workplace that features frequent meetings, rewards aggressiveness, and which emphasizes collaborative projects over individual efforts. Introverts also tend to do less well in offices with open environments. Introverts tend to enjoy having an environment where they can step away when they need to, so they may soon burn out in a phone sales position where they sit around a table with other workers all day and speak to strangers on the phone. However, they may do well in a similar job if they could have a bit of privacy and a more controlled environment. Since introverts prefer to observe before venturing out into a social or other situation, a position that commonly asks for them to improvise and act impulsively might also be a recipe for disaster. Thus, an introvert might even do well as a trial attorney where they are able to prepare and even rehearse their performances. With that said, they would be more likely to thrive in a practice that focused on non-courtroom procedures, such as a real estate closing practice or a family law practice that specialized in wills and trusts. Of course, an introvert can do well in any position if they understand their needs and are able to shift their environment to match them, it’s simply that this is much more difficult in some situations than it is in others. What Are Introverts Strengths?Introverts are some of the best employees and they can help their firms rise above the pack with innovations, exciting new products, and bold new approaches. Since they like to observe, analyze, and process various problems, their contributions can include some startling revelations that their ever-externally focused, extroverted co-workers cannot match. It should be noted that introverts should not be constantly interrupted while they are doing their work. Excessive oversight, perhaps in the form of a micro-managing supervisor, will only stymie their process. Since each introvert is likely to have a highly individualized process, interlopers to their world are likely to be confused by what they are presented with if they insist on intervening mid-flow. As with sausage, it's best to wait until an introvert is ready to present their work than to peek in before the work is done. While they may seem diametrically opposed, introverts and extroverts can indeed work very well together. Introverts are able to assess situations and provide insights to their extroverted co-workers which may help them land a deal, win a case, or make a sale. Each must simply understand their own strengths and weaknesses, and those of their fellow employees. Some of the Best Jobs for IntrovertsIntroverts, like most people, seek a career path that best suits their specific personalities. They often prefer positions and careers that allow them to indulge in their preference for working alone, or at least without constant supervision, and relying on their inner strengths. Introverts should also investigate new job prospects to check for specific management styles, such as micro-management or an emphasis on collaborative work, as these might be detrimental to their overall enjoyment of their work. The list below details several of the best jobs for introverts. This list can be used as specific advice or as a guidepost for introverts who are trying to figure out what path to take and feeling a bit overwhelmed. Since introverts like to consider before they leap into something, this list should be a terrific kicking off point. However, for those who are still unsure, it might be useful to take a personality test such as the Myers-Briggs, which will elaborate on their specific personality. Some introverts tend to be more analytical, while others are more creative. A personality test could help clarify where a person's specific strengths lie. AccountingAccounting is a great career for an introvert. The job primarily involves hours of intensive work on the computer. The field offers a wide range of career paths, starting with accounting clerks and bookkeepers all the way up to the lauded CPA. In between are risk managers, auditors, fraud specialists, accounting system experts, and managerial accountants. Each of these professionals spend long hours analyzing Excel spreadsheets, reviewing tax law, or seeking the information they need to complete their work. Accountants who pass the CPA examination and have their state licensure are able to sign tax return documents and are considered some of the more valuable members of the business community. Many introverts may appreciate that CPAs are able to work as independent businesspeople, though many also expand their practice into full-fledged accounting firms with multiple CPAs, bookkeepers, and support staff. Accountants and auditors are known to earn healthy salaries. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that the profession earns a median salary of $70,000 per year. Meanwhile, bookkeepers and accounting clerks report a median salary of $41,000. Note that CPAs often become investment bankers, consultants, or chief financial officers (CFOs) where their salaries can rocket well into six figures. Writing or EditingIntroverts make excellent writers and editors. This is mainly because these careers offer them the opportunity to venture into the world, collect information, and then craft a piece of writing based on their research. Editors also spend a great deal of time working in solitude. Editors may not write articles themselves but receive writing and analyze it for issues related to grammar and style. Editors also frequently assign topics to their writers based on what their publication needs. Note that there are many different sorts of writer and editor. Some specialize in medicine and spend a great deal of time editing work for doctors or pharmaceutical companies. Others focus on travel writing and do their research by flying to global destinations. There are also positions available in journalism and the technical writing sphere. Writers also can work on a freelance basis and take or leave assignments based on their personal preference. Writers and authors can earn a substantial salary. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that they have a median annual salary of $63,000. In related fields, editors report median earnings of $61,000 and technical writers outstrip them both with a median salary of $73,000. Writers and editors are also found in fields such as content creation and management, fields that report similar paychecks. Computer and Information TechnologyInformation technology (IT) is a field that is typically considered to be dominated by introverts. While their extroverted friends also find niches where they flourish in the field, an introverted disposition is particularly well-suited to tasks such as programming and software development. Introverts may also like how this field features a minimum of staff meetings and even collaborations may not require you to be in the same room constantly or increase the level of supervision you work under. For the most part, IT professionals work on their own and report their accomplishments to their higher-ups for review and discussion. There are many specific paths an introvert can take under the broad umbrella of IT. Some can pursue healthcare informatics, for instance, while others can delve into database management, cyber security, management information systems, or network administration. Each of these paths has its own demands, so introverts should look at each carefully to determine if they have the skills or desire to pursue that area. Regardless, any IT career is sure to pay well and offer a lifetime of rewards. For instance, the BLS reports that database administrators earn a median salary of $93,000. Programmers have a median salary of $86,000 and software developers break the six-figure barrier with median earnings of $107,000. However, leading the entire pack of IT professionals are the information system managers who earn $146,000 before bonus, benefits, and other compensation. EngineeringEngineering encompasses a broad class of careers that are perfect for introverts. The field demands an acute attention to detail, rigorous analytical work, and a dedication to problem solving. Engineers may work on teams, but they are often in a class to themselves, offering pointers and overseeing projects that they have generated with their skills and talents. Engineers can specialize to become a marine engineer, electrical engineer, mechanical engineer, automotive engineer, or civil engineer. The direction a person takes will largely depend on the types of challenge they are interested in or the vision they have for themselves. Nevertheless, most engineers will spend much of their time slaving over drafting tables or working with computer-aided design (CAD) software. The engineering field tends to pay quite well, but there is also a wide spectrum of salaries. At one end are the civil engineering technicians, who work with associate degrees. The BLS reports these technicians as earning a median wage of $53,000. The other end of the spectrum is the domain of petroleum engineers who report median earnings over $145,000. Most other engineering fields report median earnings somewhere between $60,000 and $90,000. Note that those with a bachelor's degree tend to earn closer to $90k than those with an associate degree. Medical TechnicianMedical technicians are professionals who have been specifically trained to work with technologies such as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine, computerized tomography (CAT Scan) machines, or other imaging technology. These careers are designed to help doctors and other licensed healthcare professionals make proper diagnostic or therapeutic decisions for their patients. This category even includes veterinary technologists, who assist their vets with patient intake, examinations, and surgeries. This is a rather broad employment category, but the BLS shows that radiologic and MRI technologists earn a median salary of around $62,000 per year. Other diagnostic technicians, such as sonographers, earn a bit more at $69,000 and vet techs earn closer to $35,000. At the top of the field are the radiation therapists who take home paychecks that add up to $85,000 per annum. Clinical lab technicians, who are considered to be in a related field, earn $53,000. ContractorContracting, and occupations in the building trades, are also great for introverts who prefer to work independently. These professionals can work on large building crews that construct apartment complexes, for instance, or they might work as independent contractors. Independents tend to take smaller jobs and operate with smaller crews that range from one to five workers, depending on the job. This work often involves working with a homeowner or perhaps a property manager to determine the best course of action for a repair, renovation, or total rehabilitation of a structure. For those on larger crews, they may consult with an architect or construction manager to determine the precise materials needed and the placement of those items. An electrical contractor, for instance, will review the plans for a building to learn where to place the electrical panel, how to organize the circuits, and where and how many electrical devices are necessary for the job. The specific area a person chooses to pursue will make a large difference in the size of their paycheck. The BLS groups these professions under the banner of construction and extraction occupations and shows that elevator and escalator installation and repair pays the best, with professionals earning nearly $85,000 in median pay. Meanwhile, carpenters earn a median annual wage of $48,000 and electricians earn around $56,000.
The post What are Some of the Best Jobs for Introverts? is republished from University HQ Summer jobs are a rite of passage for high school, college, and university students. Some prefer the more traditional jobs, while others seek more unique experiences or prefer to be their own boss. Whichever approach they choose, students are often looking to make some extra money to help pay for school, have some spending money, or to pay other bills they might have. If you’re a student who is looking for income, below are some options for you to consider this summer. It’s also important to note that you don’t have to do just one thing, you could combine several different part-time jobs to create the income, savings, and summer you’ll most enjoy. Best Internship PositionsFinding an intern position can seem like a daunting task, but there are things you can do to make the search easier and more successful. First, start out by discussing this with your college professors. If you are in a major that requires an internship program in order to graduate, your professors probably already have established relationships with local organizations that take on internships in your field. If this has not taken place or you need to complete an internship in another geographic location, check for organizations that work in your chosen field and inquire into the internship process. Facebook, Google, Apple, All the Big OnesGetting an internship with a major corporation is a coup. It can set you up for a successful career, whether you stay with that company or move on to another. However, getting internships with companies such as Google, Apple, or Facebook can be a difficult task because the competition is fierce, but if the opportunity to apply presents itself, you shouldn’t hesitate to attempt to land an internship with one these well-known companies. Corporations often offer internships during the summer months, so pay close attention to company’s public relations pages for announcements regarding internships and the application process. You should also be prepared for what could be a lengthy and complicated application process, and have references and objectives lined up and figured out in advance so you’re ready for whatever the company might throw at you during a job interview. Any Internship in Your Chosen Field, With High InteractionSome internships consist of getting coffee, making a million copies, and doing menial office work while quietly observing the goings-on of an office. Other internships, however, allow interns to really take part in the daily operations of the organization. Whichever the case may be, getting to intern for a company for which you would like to one day work is a great way to get a feel for the company and the job and ascertain if it might be a good fit for you. It’s also a way for the company to determine whether you are a viable candidate for hire as well. Many companies hire people who have interned for them previously, so even if all you did was make coffee and answer the phones, doing so might be enough to get you hired. However, if you are interested in getting some real work under your belt and perhaps adding to your portfolio, keep your eyes open for high interaction internships, where you get to be a part of the team and do a lot more on the job training, rather than learning everyone’s coffee preferences. Top Traditional Local Summer JobsIf you’re going home for the summer, it makes sense to find a job at home. Many places hire additional help during the summer or are often short-staffed and look forward to having more options for employees when college students return home. Other businesses are seasonal and therefore do most of their hiring in the summer months, such as plant nurseries. If you know you want to work over your summer vacation, you might want to put some feelers out in your local area while you are home for winter or spring break. It’s a good way to jump ahead of the competition to grab seasonal positions. Camp CounselorDuring the summer, kids go to camp. Whether it’s a day camp to study music or art or a sleep-away camp, these experiences require counselors to teach and supervise the kids. If you like kids and enjoy sharing your special skills in music and art with them, this could be the perfect job for you. Counselors can make between $9 and $15 per hour, depending on the type of camp and the assignments and activities involved. If you’re looking to become a teacher, this can give you experience with your chosen age group or help you make that decision. Lifeguard or Swim InstructorIf you’re an excellent swimmer and trained in CPR and first aid, working as a lifeguard or swim instructor could be the ideal summer job and a good way to spend some hours in the sun without feeling like you’re wasting too much time. Lifeguards help keep swimmers safe at pools and beaches, while swim instructors teach kids and adults how to swim. Lifeguards generally make around $10 per hour, while swim instructors make $12 or more per hour. Nanny/ChildcareIf you like kids, then securing a job as a nanny or as a childcare worker is something you might want to explore. Nannies are full-time caregivers for a family. The nanny takes care of the children while the parents are away at work or on vacation. Childcare workers also take care of other people’s children, but it’s more of a short-term situation and often occurs in a childcare center setting. Nannies make around $15 per hour while childcare workers make closer to $12 an hour. TutorIf you excel in a subject, you could work as a tutor while on summer break. Many students in high school and middle school seek help in areas such as English, history, and math. You can set an hourly wage to matches your experience, but the average tutor makes $20 per hour. To find potential clients you can use social media or contact schools in your area and let them know you’re available to tutor during the summer. This can even lead into an ongoing gig after you return to school if you find that you excel at teaching a specific subject. Most colleges are located near enough middle and high schools to let you continue finding clients who need help during the regular school year. Your Parents EmployerIf you’re looking for a place to work over the summer break to help pay for college or just to have spending money, a good place to look could be your parents’ employers. Many factories hire college students during the summer for the extra manpower and to help get other office tasks completed. For example, if your mom is an accountant, her firm could hire you to catch up the filing or data entry that tends to get thrown on the back burner during the busy tax season. Or maybe the factory where your father works hires college students to help with maintenance. I know of one truck building factory that trains and employs the children of their usual employees to provide them with great work experience and help them build their resumes. Going to work with your parents could be a good way to earn some money and not have to spend a lot of time looking for a job. The Local Outlet Store, Mall, or BookstoreOne of the more traditional summer jobs for college students is working in retail at places such as the mall or a bookstore. These jobs are often plentiful during the summer months, so finding a job at the local department store or outlet mall may be easier than searching for the perfect internship. However, you might want to put your application in while you’re home on spring break so that you can get a jump on the competition. Retail workers make, on average, $10 per hour, though it depends on your state’s minimum wage. A Local RestaurantAnother popular option for college students who are home for the summer looking for work is working in a restaurant. These establishments are also often looking for extra staff in the summer months. Although waitstaff don’t make a lot per hour, they can make good money through tips. Waitstaff generally make $3 to $4 per hour, but much more through tips, which can be as much as 10-20% of a total order in the best circumstances. Plant Nursery or Landscaping CompanyIf you enjoy working in the soil while growing and nurturing plants and flowers, then a job in a plant nursery or in landscaping could be the perfect summer job for you. During the summer months, many nurseries need additional staff, so these jobs could be plentiful in your area. Even department stores with home and garden sections tend to have increased employment opportunities in the summer. Depending on the job, your experience, and your location, you could earn between $10 and $15 an hour planting shrubbery and maintaining flowers. Creative Summer JobsIf the more traditional summer jobs just aren’t out there, or you have no interest in any of them, it could be time to get creative. You could try and turn your passion into income over the summer. Or you could just think outside the box and try working in a field you never considered before. Here are some suggestions for more non-traditional summer jobs you might want to consider. Wedding Photographer or Photography AssistantDo you have an eye for photography and enjoy taking pictures? Do you enjoy weddings? Are you taking or considering taking photography courses while you’re in college? Then you might consider working with or becoming a wedding photographer during the summer. You’ll spend the day with a couple on their most important day and capture the moments that happen throughout. This is typically an all-day gig that could stretch well into the evening depending on what the couple wants you to cover. And, if you are new to the concept, then you might work as a wedding photographer assistant, especially if you already have some experience or a few classes under your belt. Wedding photographers make $19 per hour on average. And, if you don’t have all the equipment and choose to seek out a working photographer and offer to be their assistant, it won’t pay as well, but it’s still a decent way to make money over the summer and see if this is something you could spend more time doing. Travel Internship/VolunteeringIf needing money isn’t an issue and you are looking for a unique experience over the summer, then consider volunteering your time with an organization that needs it. Programs such as Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (aka WOOF), are always looking for people to help with farming and environmental causes throughout the world. You could also volunteer at the local hospital, animal shelter, or other location that counts on volunteers to keep their services going and may be likely to lose volunteers during the prime vacation months. It’s also a good way to explore potential future career opportunities and maybe learn about potential employers. If you aren’t looking to volunteer, you might consider looking for a travel internship experience. These are usually limited, so you should start looking right away if this sounds like something you’d be interested in, but they are available for a wide variety of careers and may be just what you need to start your career off on the right foot. Ask your school or check online to find these unique opportunities. House SitterWhen people leave town on a business trip or a vacation, sometimes they want someone to keep an eye on their house or stay there so it doesn’t look empty. Working as a house sitter is a good way to make some money and perhaps have a place to stay so that you can travel to a different area for a change of scenery without incurring as much expense. When looking for house sitting opportunities, you can start with friends and family who might need the service, or you can use a website such as trustedhousesitters.com and see what they have available. House sitters make an average of $15 an hour, depending on the services needed, which can range from light house cleaning, to watering plants, taking care of a pool or animals, or other needed household chores. Pet CaretakerIf you enjoy pets and have the patience and experience in dealing with dogs and cats and other animals, hiring yourself out as a pet caretaker is an option. You can look for work on your own, or you can use a service such as Rover.com to find potential clients. How much you make can vary. For example, you could charge $20 a day to check in on a person’s pet and let them out one or twice a day, or you could charge upwards of $100 per day to house, feed, walk, and entertain the pet while the pet’s owner is away. If you plan to keep the animal in your home, be sure to look at any applicable local statutes that might require you to have a permit or file taxes as a business. You should be able to find these on your local city’s website. Zoo WorkerZoo workers help to maintain a zoo in every capacity. Some of them feed animals and clean their habitats, while others keep the zoo clean and organized. If zoology or another, similar animal wildlife field of study is your major, you could be tasked with other responsibilities based on that major. Offering tours and providing information to zoo visitors could also be a part of the job, as well as working concessions or in other retail areas of the zoo. Zoo workers make $11 on average, but this can also depend on your experience and what position you secure. National Park Service EmployeeWorking as a national park service employee is a great way to work outdoors and help the environment. Summer jobs consist of assisting visitors with location information, picking up trash, assisting with crowd control during events, and maintaining the grounds. There could also be opportunities to work in gifts shops, restaurants, or other park businesses. You may even be able to work as a fire lookout if you are willing to spend a significant amount of time out in the wilderness and there are any positions open. The average summer employee for the national park service earns $12 per hour but this can vary depending on the park and the actual responsibilities of the particular job. Learn more at https://universityhq.org/resources/job-search-sites/best-summer-jobs-for-college-students/ As we grow through the various stages of life, we all want items that help us thrive and survive. College students are in a very specific stage that will make a huge impact on the rest of their lives. They are certainly no longer children, but they aren’t yet full adults, either. Thus, college students rely on their support network to help them with the sorts of items, devices, and services that construct an optimal college life. When it comes time to give a college student a birthday or holiday gift, consider the list below. We've done our best to help guide you to the best gifts for the college student in your life.
Best College Student Tech GiftsThese days everyone wants the latest, hottest tech gadgets. You might first think of computers, phones, audio devices, and gaming systems but make sure you know what they have and what they might want before you duplicate their tech. Not only do college students need the devices that come with circuit boards and processors, but they need to accessorize these fun new tools. After all, every electronic device needs to be carried, protected, and decorated, not to mention the most useful apps or software, which might not be free. Thus, you can also look for items such as laptop bags, Bluetooth headphones, noise canceling headphones, ear buds, Word processing software or paper writing assistance, and more. Every university student will be pleased to find electronics and accessories under the tree this holiday season.
Self-Care Items for Students in CollegeCollege students are not historically known for taking the best care of themselves. However, that seems to be changing as the younger generations are increasingly concerned about nutrition, exercise, and overall wellness. These days there are tools that help students integrate self-care into their daily routines so that they don't have to carve out time in their hectic schedule to attend to wellness during, say, exam period. Electronic devices can help them track their activity, apps monitor their nutrition, and a new pair of glasses can help reduce eyestrain. You can help the college student in your life maintain optimal health with a few well-chosen gifts this holiday season.
Small EnjoymentsSometimes it's the little things that matter the most and, while college students don't often have space for many items, their lives can be eased with a few thoughtful gifts. A gift bag full of small games or toys can bring a lot of joy to a student’s life. A few card games, for instance, or a stress ball might help ease the tension of a tough Calculus course. Other ideas include posters of their favorite artist or a metal thermos that might become their best friend for all four years. Other ideas include gift cards good for a spa treatment, a French press coffeemaker, and a portable electric kettle to keep the tea brewing all night.
Best Organizational Gifts for College StudentsNo life skill is more important for a college student to master than organization. It's vital to keep one's schedule, belongings, and even school supplies under control with a well thought out system. This way students have what they need when they need it. Organization also helps them maintain a high GPA because they must remain on top of their assignments, project due dates, and class schedule. There are many tools to help keep students organized and on top of their responsibilities. Here are a few gift ideas for students that will pay off long into the future.
30 of the Best Affordable Gifts for Your College Student is courtesy of University HQ. |