HOW CERTAIN DEGREES IN NURSING CAN › wp-content › uploads › sites › 6… · resume, but discussing alternative dates with vendors with whom youÕre already under contract

2 • MVTC GRADUATION EDITION MAY 2020

The field of nursing is complex. Much like physicians specialize in particular areas of medicine, nurses often narrow their focus to certain disciplines within the profession.

Education is vital for anyone aspiring to become a nurse. The American Nurses Association notes that there are various requirements for licensure within the field of nursing. Such requirements typically begin in the classroom. When considering a career in nursing, aspiring nurses should recognize that there are various degrees they can pursue, and that each of these degrees can pave the way to a rewarding career.

Associate’s degreeThe online nursing resource Nurse.org

notes that nurses who have earned their associate’s degree in nursing, or ADN,

are the professionals most people first consider

when thinking of nurses.

ADNs speak directly with

patients about their symptoms and

conditions and monitor and record vital signs. An ADN also is qualified to administer medication and can offer advice on self-care

after surgery and how to confront illness or injury.ADNs work in a wide range of

health care settings, helping to provide services for everyone from infants to the elderly. The American Nurses

Association notes that the ADN is a two-year degree offered by community colleges and hospital-based schools of nursing.

Bachelor’s degree The ANA notes that a bachelor’s of

science in nursing (BS/BSN) is a four-year degree offered at colleges and universities that prepares graduates to engage in the full scope of professional nursing practice across all health care settings. En route to earning a BSN, students will concentrate on an assortment of disciplines that will benefit them throughout their careers. Psychology, human growth and development, biology, microbiology, organic chemistry, nutrition, and anatomy and physiology are typically the focus of the first two years of study. As students advance toward earning their BSN, they also will learn about adult acute and chronic disease, maternal/child health, pediatrics, psychiatric/mental health nursing, and community health nursing.

Nursing students pursuing a BSN will also study nursing theory, physical and behavioral sciences, and humanities. Health care economics and policy also may be studied as schools hope to educate aspiring nurses about the cultural, political, economic, and social issues that affect patients and influence how health care is delivered.

Advanced degreesAspiring nurses also may want to

pursue advanced degrees. Master’s degree programs prepare students to become advanced practice nurses, nurse administrators and nurse educators.

Aspiring nurses interested in research may want to pursue a doctor of philosophy, or Ph.D., while those interested in clinical practice or leadership roles may pursue a doctorate of nursing practice, or DNP.

Education is vital for modern nurses. The educational path aspiring nurses take can determine where their careers ultimately take them.

HOW CERTAIN DEGREES IN NURSING CAN HELP ASPIRING NURSES

When considering a career in nursing, aspiring nurses should recognize that there are various degrees they can pursue, and that each of these degrees can pave the way to a rewarding career.

MAY 2020 MVTC GRADUATION EDITION • 3M

A-3

0159

997


Events have been canceled or postponed across the globe in the wake of the outbreak of COVID-19. This has caused

a disruption to not only commercial events like concerts and sporting events, but personal gatherings as well. Any party with a large number of potential guests has to be reconsidered. This includes graduation parties, weddings and birthdays. People facing the cancellation of such events can follow these guidelines.

• Speak to vendors to find out if cancellations can occur with no penalties. Many hotels and other travel services are waiving fees for cancellations, or allowing bookings to be rescheduled at no additional cost.

• Try to think of some alternative dates for events like weddings and graduation parties as soon as possible. There is no way to accurately predict the path that COVID-19 will take, nor put a firm date regular life can resume, but discussing alternative dates with vendors with whom youÕre already under contract may put you at the top of the list when gatherings are once again allowed.

• Reach out to guests to explain that your plans are fluid. Expect that a good portion of guests, even those who already committed to attend, may not be able to make rescheduled events. Speak with vendors about fluctuating headcounts in the wake of COVID-19.

• Be patient and keep an open minded about events. These are unprecedented times and many people are learning as they go. Rescheduling events when the threat has subsided may cause a bottleneck effect with service providers. Flexibility and patience can help make reschedule less stressful.

WHAT TO DO IN THE EVENT OF CANCELED EVENT

MAY 2020 MVTC GRADUATION EDITION • 5M

V-30

1599

46M

V-30

1599

46

Salazar, LeonardoSalutatorian

Morales, Aaron JosephValedictorian

Handy Jr., Rene Zamora, Blanca Elena Lopez Guerrero, Yarilis Iracema

Zapata, PaulaHerrera, Deisy Cano, Joseph Aaron De la Rosa, Alondra Vasquez, Eric

PROUDLY SUPPORTING OUR STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC EXCELLENCEBoard of Trustees: Connie Villanueva, President - Jose Raul Valdez, Vice President - Teresa Del Toro, Secretary - Brenda Cavazos, Trustee

- Gloria Garate, Trustee - Armando Lopez, Trustee - Jackie Padilla, Trustee

Monte Alto Early College High School

Aguilar Acuna, Yaritzy Deylin

Borrego, Albert

Pizana, Esmeralda

Reyes, Hope Marie

Reyes, Julianna Nicole

Reyes, Justin Angel

Reyes, Monica Rodriguez, Amber Marie

Romero Herrera, Brenda Estafania

Romero Herrera, Cristian Fernando Vicente

Rosas, Jennifer Rubalcada, Jose Jaime

Guizar Guizar, Galilea

Hernandez, Justin Adrian

Leal, Madison Rose

Linton, Brandon Koby

Lugo Gomez, Jorge Manuel

Martinez Jr., Mauro

Martinez, Julian Martinez, Nailim Milian

Medrano, Erika

Ruiz, Destiny Richelle

Salazar Jr, Saul Leonardo

Salazar, Rosario Esperanza

Sanchez Guizar, Francisco

Silva Cortez,Ashly

Terrazas-Guajardo, Nestor Daniel

Torres, Naomy Lizette

Aguilera Hernandez, Andrea

Castillo Arriaga, Christian Alejandro

Castillo De Leon, Salvador

Castillo, Anahi Claudio, Marie Isabel

Coronado, Roxanna Aixel

Delgado, Melissa Susana

Galvan, Libby Yessenia

Garcia, Vidal Guillen, Aaron Michael

Aguirre, Brian Alberto

Almaraz, Fatima Nicole

Almaraz, Paula Michelle

Alonzo, Ivan Esteban

Alvarez, Estrella Yesenia

Trevino, Sira Janelle

Valle, Johana Ayleen

Valle, Naydelin Arely

Villalpando, Briana Lydia

Zuniga- Gamboa, Emily

Anzaldua, Matthew Ray

Arvizu, Luis Humberto

Perez, Joselynne Monserrat


SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS OF TEEN TRAVELERSGraduating from high

school is a significant milestone in the lives

of young people. The next step for many teenagers after graduating from high school is to go off to college. But before teens make their way to college campuses, some may celebrate their graduations by traveling overseas without parental supervision for the first time.

Whether it’s through a school-sponsored program or a graduation gift, overseas trips can be life-changing experiences for young people. Doing so without mom and dad in tow allows them to experience the sense of independence they will soon enjoy as college students.

While teenagers may look forward to traveling abroad, the parents they’ll

leave behind will no doubt experience some anxiety as their children travel thousands of miles away. But parents can take certain steps to reduce that anxiety without making trips less enjoyable for their sons and daughters.

• Stay in (digital) touch. Thanks to social media, parents no longer need to sit at home imagining what their wandering youngsters are doing in foreign countries. When sending children on overseas trips, parents can

purchase international service for their

children’s phones so kids have access to

social media

websites and apps via their phones. Parents can then communicate with their children through such apps, asking kids to check in at the end of each day through direct messaging.

• Enroll youngsters in STEP. STEP, or the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, is free to U.S. citizens and nationals. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, the service is invaluable to overseas travelers who, once enrolled, will receive important information about safety conditions from the embassy in their destination countries. It also makes it easier for embassies to contact travelers in case of emergencies like natural disasters, civil unrest or family

emergencies.

• Make copies of travel documents. Before teens head overseas, parents should make multiple copies of important travel documents, including passports, travel itineraries, travel reservations (i.e., flight, hotel, etc.), and any bank and/or credit cards teens will be using while overseas. This can help local authorities track travelers who have gone missing or help those travelers who have been victimized by thieves or criminals. Keep a copy of these documents at home and give teens a copy of each document to take with them as well.

• Document your teenager’s medical history, including medications. Parents no doubt know their children’s medical histories backwards and forwards, but teenagers

may not be so familiar, and, even if they are, that familiarity won’t be too useful if kids are unconscious. Create a file that documents your child’s medical history, including all medications the child takes and any allergies he or she has, and make sure kids travel with it at all times. Medical practitioners

overseas will find this invaluable if they

need to treat teens.

MAY 2020 MVTC GRADUATION EDITION • 7

SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS OF TEEN TRAVELERSWhile teenagers may look forward to traveling abroad, the parents they’ll leave behind will no doubt experience some anxiety as their children travel thousands of miles away. But parents can take certain steps to reduce that anxiety without making trips less enjoyable for their sons and daughters.

• Discuss safety and overseas laws. Before kids head off, parents should have a lengthy discussion about safe travel and the importance of obeying laws in their destination countries. Make sure youngsters know to avoid walking alone at night and to resist strangers’ offers of food or drinks. In addition, teenagers should abstain from consuming alcohol even if it’s legal for them to do so in their destination countries,

as their low tolerance for alcohol can put them in precarious positions.

Overseas travel can change the lives of young people for the better. But parents of teens traveling abroad without parental supervision for the first time should work with their children to ensure they’re safe for the duration of their trips.

Love, Mom & Dad

Class Of 2020!

Congratulations!

Isabella Celeste Ochoa

909 S. AIRPORT DR.WESLACO, TX

956.968.0560

MON. - FRI. 8 AM - 5 PM CLOSED SAT. & SUN.

www.drochoaweslaco.com

SERVICES PROVIDED

Dr. Alfonso Ochoa MD, PAAnthony Del Genovese NP-C, DC

Yaneth Flores-Salinas AGPC, NP - BC

FAMILY MEDICINE IN-HOUSE LAB AND X-RAY BONE DENSITY TESTS DOT & IMMIGRATION

PHYSICALS

VACCINES WORKERS’ COMP WORK/AUTO INJURIES PHYSICAL THERAPY CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES

“Personal Care for the Entire Family”

Congratulations 2020 Graduates!

Graduation is an exciting time in the lives of students. After years in the classroom preparing for life after

school, graduation marks a time when students are finally ready to enter the ‘real world’ and land their first professional job.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics advises that earning a college degree can greatly improve a person’s chance of landing a job. The more education a person receives, the lower his or her prospects of being unemployed become. The BLS said that, as of 2014, individuals with a bachelor’s degree

could earn on average $1,101 per week, compared to $668 for persons with high school diplomas. Those with bachelor’s degrees had a 3.5 percent unemployment rate compared to 6 percent for those with only high school

diplomas.

The National Center for Education Statistics estimates that roughly two million students earn bachelor’s degrees each year. Many others will go on to

earn master’s

or doctorates before entering the workforce.

As the economy continues to improve, job prospects follow suit. According to a job outlook from the National Association of Colleges and Employers,

employers had plans to hire 8.3 percent

more new college graduates in 2015 than in 2014. The growth of businesses and the rising rate

of retiring Baby Boomers has spurred

employment prospects. Landing a job post-graduation

requires diligence on the part of new grads, and the following are a handful of ways to make those pursuits more successful.

• Hit the ground running. It’s tempting for recent grads to take the summer off and have a lax approach to job hunting after all of the hard work they put into their education. But recent grads can get a head start on their competition by beginning their searches immediately after earning their degrees. Create a list of a few target companies you have your eye on, and then tap into your network to find a contact at each company and reach out to that contact directly.

• Focus on a career path. Prospective employers prefer that applicants have some certainty regarding the types of jobs they are looking for. Take a career assessment test or work with a career counselor to narrow down the fields and positions that speak to you. Avoid the

“I’m willing to do or learn anything” approach to job applications.

Employers may see that as desperation.

• Don’t rely entirely on the Internet. Oftentimes,

landing a good job requires reaching out to people in person. In a MonsterCollege survey, 78 percent of job-seekers said networking was a factor in their job

searches. Standing out from the crowd may

involve physically standing out. Attend conferences or

speeches from people who work at the companies you’re

investigating. Don’t be afraid to shake some hands and introduce yourself to

others.

• Think about what you can offer to prospective employers. Narrow down your specific skills and customize your

EMPLOYMENT: THE NEXT STEP AFTER GRADUATION8 • MVTC GRADUATION EDITION MAY 2019


EMPLOYMENT: THE NEXT STEP AFTER GRADUATIONrésumé’s or cover letters to the specific talents you can offer each potential employer. Use examples that illustrate these skills from past school courses, volunteerism or part-time jobs. Your ‘quirks,’ like being the most punctual person in your group of friends, may turn out to be the skill an employer admires the most. Consider developing a career portfolio that highlights your past achievements.

• Do your homework before an interview or networking opportunity. Always be prepared before an interview or when meeting with someone you are soliciting for job help. Research the company and know its background so you have an idea of how the company runs. Keep a list of questions at the ready. A knowledge of the company can help you stand out from other applicants.

The next step for many after graduation is to find a job that fits with graduates’ career goals.

Cisneros Fine Jewelry30160000

Congratulations!Caricia Cantu

Love,Dad, Mom & Javi


Many students must take on loans to finance their college educations. While such loans

make it possible for students to further their educations, many of those students ultimately graduate with substantial amounts of debt.

According to a study by the Institute for College Access & Success, an independent nonprofit

organization working to make higher

education more

available and affordable for people of all backgrounds, 70 percent of students in the class of 2012 graduated with student loan debt. The average amount of debt those students carried was $29,400, and many financial analysts say there is no relief in sight. In fact, the Federal Reserve of New York indicated that, by the end of 2013, American student loan debt had ballooned to $1.08 trillion, an increase of over 300 percent from 2003.

Substantial student loan debt can make life difficult for recent graduates, especially when the job market for recent grads is far from

robust. Many student loans come with a six-month grace period

that gives grades time to work out a repayment plan, and there are ways for new grads to maximize this grace period to their advantage.

• Know your loan(s). Grace periods vary depending on the loan. While a six-month

period is common, some loans have grace periods as long as nine

months. There also may be an eligible deferment

built in. In addition, while grace periods typically kick

in after a student graduates, grace periods actually begin

whenever a student withdraws from school or drops below half-

time status. That’s an important consideration for students thinking

of taking a semester off or leaving school altogether. If you plan to continue your education, or re-enroll in school, you may once again be eligible for a repayment grace period. Log in to www.nslds.ed.gov using your Federal Student Aid PIN to view your loan balances, information about who is servicing your loans and more.

• Pay the interest. For some loans, including some federal Perkins loans and subsidized Stafford loans,

MAXIMIZE YOUR STUDENT LOAN GRACE PERIODStudent loan grace periods give recent graduates time to develop a repayment plan that works to their advantage.


MAXIMIZE YOUR STUDENT LOAN GRACE PERIODinterest will not accrue during your grace period. However, interest may begin to accrue immediately upon graduation. You can avoid higher bills by making payments before your grace period expires. The longer you defer your payments, the more interest you may have to pay.

• Change your repayment plan. Your lender may provide a set repayment plan, but typically you do not have to keep it, but the U.S. Department of Education notes that these lender-established plans are not necessarily set in stone. Contact your loan servicer to come up with a repayment plan that works best for you. You may be able to lower your

payments, consolidate various loans, tie monthly payments to your income level, or even have loans forgiven if you work as a teacher or in other areas of public service.

• Establish an emergency fund. If you are employed, start saving some extra money now so you can build up your bank account, which may be more difficult when you begin paying back loans. Use the time to your advantage by clearing other debt as well.

Student loans make it possible for many students to finance their educations. To help reduce debt, make use of your loans’ grace periods and get your financial ducks in a row.

P.O. Box 699 Progreso, TX Phone (956) 565-0241

Mayor--Gerardo Alanis

Mayor Pro-Tem--Ruben Abundiz

City Manager--Alfredo Espinosa

Councilman--Armando Cavazos

Councilman--Raul Martinez Jr.

Councilman--Javier Morales

Congratulations and warmest wishes to the Class of 2020 graduates.

Seize the Day!As you celebrate your graduation, we’d like to take a moment to express how proud we are of your hard work and achievement. We hope you will continue

to aim high and reach for the stars. Your potential for successis limitless, and we wish you all the best in every future endeavor!


What graduate doesn’t wish to find a new

car with a big bow on top in the

driveway? While it

would be nice

to begin

a new phase in life with a fresh set of wheels, many gift-givers tend to lean toward more practical items when buying gifts for recent graduates.

Though they might

not prove

as flashy as a new car, the following gifts can still excite and help students who are going off to work or continuing their educations.

• Résumé service: In this competitive job market, individuals need to take advantage of every opportunity to stand out from the crowd. Résumé rules have changed, and graduates will be best served by companies that know the ins and outs of writing effective résumés. Employers often use digital scanning software to sift through applicants, so knowing which keywords and tags to use can ensure a résumé gets noticed. Costs can range from $100 to $200, depending on the services desired.

• Electronics: Technology changes on a dime, and it benefits graduates to be equipped with the latest gadgets. A new tablet, laptop or desktop computer may make a great gift. If the price tag is a little high, consider pooling resources with other family members or friends and give electronics as a joint gift.

• Noise-cancelling headphones: A set of durable headphones to block out ambient noise may be helpful for graduates going on to college or post-graduate work. Grads entering the

PRACTICAL GIFTS FOR RECENT GRADUATE

Practicality can come in handy when buying graduation gifts. The best gifts are often those that graduates can put to good use.


workforce can enjoy silence or music as they commute to their offices. These headphones also work well on flights, making them ideal gifts for new grads whose first jobs require a lot of travel.

• Home luxuries: Outfit soon-to-be college freshmen with some of the niceties of home. Upgrade dorm furniture with accent pillows or a more comfortable mattress. Put together a luxury gift basket with a high-quality robe, electric razor, spa shampoo, and other toiletries.

• Travel tickets: Treat graduates to a trip away from home. Travelers often gain new perspectives and inspiration when visiting a city, state or country for the first time. Travel is good for future entrepreneurs and may help a person stand out in a long list of job

applicants. According to Forbes.com, travel can help cultivate relationships outside of one’s existing network and provide ideas from others outside of graduates’ existing personal and professional circles.

• New wardrobe: Gift cards to retailers that specialize in business attire often make welcome gifts for new grads. Some students may need to update their wardrobes so they can look more professional on interviews or at school networking functions.

• Luggage: A new suitcase or travel bag is quite handy for students studying abroad. Choose durable luggage that can handle the rigors of travel so cash-strapped new grads have something they can rely on for years to come.

• Money: Money remains a

one-size-fits-all gift that can be put to many uses. Invest in a graduate’s future by buying stock in a stable company, contribute to a college savings account or help grads begin

paying back their student loans.Practicality can come in handy

when buying graduation gifts. The best gifts are often those that graduates can put to good use.

439 S. Vermont Ave.Mercedes, Texas 565-2261

Congratulations

MV-

3016

0107

1913 W. Business 83 - Weslaco, TX - [email protected]/C SERVICE AND REPAIRS/RV SERVICE AND REPAIRS

Lico’s Body ShopPAINT & COLLISION CENTER (956) 969-2089

Congratulations2020CongratulationsClass of

Call today for an Appointment.

WE’RE OPEN

Congratulations!Karina Sanchez

Love, Love, Love, LoveMom, Lorena & Jackie

Mercedes, Tx


A dvanced degrees have long been associated with better career prospects and higher

earnings. Women seem to be especially aware of that, as the Council of Graduate Schools/GRE Survey of Graduate Enrollment and Degrees noted that, in the fall of 2017, the majority of first-time graduate students at all levels were women. Among master’s degree candidates that fall, 59 percent were female while 53.5 percent of doctoral candidates were women.

The decision to pursue an advanced degree requires careful consideration. Such a pursuit requires a considerable investment of time and money, and while those are two important factors to consider before making a decision (more on that below), they’re not the only things women must think of as they try to make the best decision.

TimingTiming and time are two different

things. While many people considering graduate degrees think about how much time they’ll need to complete their degrees, timing also merits consideration. Newly minted graduates may want to take a break after expending so much effort to earn their undergraduate degrees. Taking time between degrees can provide the opportunity to recharge, and it also can give young graduates a chance to get some professional experience. That experience can inform their future grad school decision, perhaps reassuring them they’re on the right career path or compelling them to pursue other avenues. But enrolling right after completing your undergraduate studies can be beneficial as well. That’s especially so for recent grads who hope to start a family soon after graduation. The longer you delay enrolling in a graduate program,

the longer you may delay starting a family, which can have a lasting impact.

Career prospectsWhile it’s easy to assume an

advanced degree will greatly enhance your career prospects and increase your earning potential, it’s not necessarily that simple. When considering the pursuit of an advanced degree, try to determine if you’ll be in the workforce long enough to benefit from the increased earnings. Women who are mid- to late-career might not benefit considerably or at all from the extra earnings if they’re paying for their advanced degrees themselves, as the cost of tuition and other fees might be higher than the extra earnings. In addition, some advanced degrees won’t necessarily lead to considerably higher salaries than you’re likely to earn with a bachelor’s degree. That will depend on your profession.

TimeThe time required to

pursue an advanced degree merits strong consideration. Many students pursuing a master’s degree full-time can earn their degrees in two years, while those who attend part-time will need more time to complete their degree programs. Doctoral programs take considerably longer.

CostThe cost of an advanced degree

varies widely depending on the program. Some programs may cost $20,000 or less, while others will cost more than $100,000. Many doctoral

candidates receive financial aid from their schools or lenders, but the cost of a Ph.D. is still considerable, especially when considering the potential lost earnings during the years while the degree is being pursued.

Women receive the majority of advanced degrees earned at colleges and universities across the country. Choosing whether or not to pursue such a degree requires

careful consideration of a host of factors.

The decision to pursue an advanced degree requires careful consideration.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURSUING AND ADVANCED DEGREE


A fter all the pomp and circumstance of graduation festivities,

graduates are left holding a highly symbolic piece of paper that has the potential to impact the rest of their lives. Graduates can exhibit pride in their academic accomplishments by prominently displaying their diplomas in their homes.

The following are some ideas about how graduates can showcase their diplomas, whether those diplomas were earned in the recent past or decades ago.

FramesOne of the more traditional ways

to display a diploma is to have the document professionally mounted and framed under glass. Consider framing with UV-protective glass to prevent the diploma from fading through the years. Avoid having your diploma permanently affixed to the back of a frame or plaque so it can be removed should the frame or plaque become damaged.

Much like a cherished piece of artwork, diplomas can be displayed on walls in a home. They can fit in well as conversation pieces in a sitting room, home office, hallway, or library setting.

Surround with moldingFramed diplomas can be made to

look more ornate when built into the design of the room. Coordinate it with bookshelves or molding laid out throughout the space. Some accent lighting can draw further attention to the document.

Bound booksFor those who would rather not

display their diplomas on the wall, consider sealing the diploma in a photo album or have it classically bound in a decorative book. Include photos of graduation or other special accomplishments in one’s school or professional career to complete the book. The diploma also can be scanned and digitally reprinted before being added to a custom-made photo memory book, with the real document tucked away for safe keeping.

Personalized tablesWork the diploma into home decor

in another fashion. Graduates who do not plan on moving the diploma can place it into a display case or in a glass peekaboo coffee table. It also can be affixed to a wooden side table and clear-coated so that it becomes another source of conversation in a sitting room.

Diplomas are hard-earned and worthy of display. With some creativity, grads can incorporate their diplomas into their home decor.

DIFFERENT WAYS TO SHOWCASE A DIPLOMA

Congratulations!

Leana Villanueva

Weslaco East High School

All the best for a bright future ahead of you!

Love you, Lico’s Body Shop

Leana Villanueva

Dr. Khaldoon Abid

415 S. Airport Dr. Ste. C Weslaco, TX 78596

Ph: 956-375-2248 - Fax: [email protected]

Most Insurances Accepted. Flexible hours, Open Late.

Accepting New PatientsCHIPS and Medicaid Accepted

Service with a Smile!All the Dental needs for the Entire Family All in one Place!

“Wishing all the 2020 Graduates the Best of Luck and a

Bright Smiling Future!”

Service with a Smile!Service with a Smile!Service with a Smile!Service with a Smile!Service with a Smile!

CLASS OF 2020


A pplying to colleges is exciting for many high school students. But that excitement

is sometimes tempered by anxiety. The college application process can affect students’ lives for years to come, so it’s understandable why some teenagers might feel stressed as they apply to college.

The National Center for Educational Statistics says 69 percent of high school graduates in the United States enroll in college the fall after graduating from high school. Many students begin applying to college before entering their senior year of high school. Students can employ various strategies to make applying to college less stressful.

Create an inventory of student experiences and awardsWhen completing their college

applications, students submit a variety of materials. In addition to students’ track records in the classroom, schools will be interested in kids’ extracurricular activities, hobbies, volunteer work, and even things they do during their free time.

Parents and students can work together to develop a master list that includes information about what students have accomplished during high school. These may include involvement in certain clubs, participation in sports teams, advanced ranking in scouting programs, or even a list of books read. Having this document handy will make it that much simpler to fill out college applications.

Investigate the Common Application

The Common Application began as a niche program for select private liberal arts colleges, but now has grown into an organization that services more than 750

schools. The organization enables students to create an account and complete one basic form that will be accepted by all institutions who are members. The CA helps students streamline the college application process and reduce redundancy. An alert system also helps applicants manage application deadlines.

Avoid applying everywhere

Some students think that applying to dozens of schools will improve their chances of being admitted. However, applicants may be wasting their time applying to schools they have no intention of attending, and that only adds to the stress of meeting deadlines. Narrow down the possibilities to a handful of favorite schools and go from there.

Use the resources at your disposal

Students who have access to guidance counselors, mentors, college centers, or even teachers who are willing to help with the application process should use these resources wisely. In addition, iPhone and Android apps can help streamline the college application process.

Consider scholarships concurrently

Some schools automatically consider applicants for scholarships, grants and work-study programs. But that’s not so with every school, so students may have to apply on their own or rely on third parties for scholarships. Fastweb is a leading online resource to find

scholarships to pay for school.Advance preparation can make

the college application process a lot less stressful for students and their parents.

HOW TO MAKE APPLYING TO COLLEGE LESS STRESSFUL

The college application process can affect students’ lives for years to come, so it’s understandable why some teenagers might feel stressed as they apply to college.


College students have a few different living options at their disposal, but

many opt for

dormitory living, as it is one of the more convenient and popular boarding options, particularly

for out-of-town students. Thousands of post-

secondary students pack up their belongings and move away from home in the pursuit of an education, and parents want to do what they can to ensure their college-aged kids are safe.

For many students, college represents the first time they will live anywhere other than the homes they grew up in. Dorm life

can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be one that may open new college students up to inherently risky situations.

While students should look forward to fun and excitement at school, it’s also important for them to be prepared for what lies ahead at college and in dorm life Ñ and to take the proper safety precautions.

• Fall in with a trustworthy group of dorm friends. Friends can be informed of your schedule for both classes and work, so they are aware of where you are supposed to be at certain times of the day. If something is amiss, these friends can alert authorities or investigate your whereabouts further.

• Lock your dorm room door. Always keep the dorm room door locked, and make sure your roommate is on the same page. Locking the door can deter people from entering without your

permission and prevent theft.• Keep belongings out

of sight. When preparing to move into a dorm, leave heirlooms or expensive jewelry at home. Once you move

in, store your more valuable belongings out of sight or in a locked box or safe. Consider getting insurance for dorm belongings, which will protect you in the event of theft.

• Travel in groups. When attending parties or other functions, always arrive and leave in a group. This offers extra protection, as assaults and other crimes are less likely to occur when criminals are outnumbered.

• Know the evacuation routes. Learn your dorm’s evacuation policies. Know where all exits are and how to get out of the building if exits may be blocked. Find out if fire drills or other safety procedures are practiced, and participate in them.

• Use the elevator. If there’s an elevator, use it. Stairwells are secluded and dark and often provide the perfect opportunity for would-be criminals to take advantage of unsuspecting students.

Use common sense and trust your instincts with regard to dorm safety. Make college memories good ones by emphasizing caution.

TAKE A COURSE IN DORM SAFETY

Dorm room and campus safety

should be a top priority for

students.


College is the first taste of true independence many young students experience.

Whereas mom and dad were always around to make sure

kids were out the door on time and homework was done, that safety blanket is no longer there once kids move into their dorm rooms.

The transition to college life can be exciting. But while students typically welcome that transition with open arms, parents often worry about how their children will handle their suddenly more

independent life. Parents who want to help

their kids make as smooth a

transition to college life as possible can take steps during their children’s senior year of high school to help them adjust to their new surroundings and responsibilities more easily.

• Let kids fly solo on school day mornings. New college students have to make many adjustments upon moving into their dorms, and getting themselves out of bed each morning and off to class on time is one such change. Parents worried that their students will sleep in when mom and dad isn’t around to remind them to wake up can start letting kids fly solo on school day mornings during their final year of high school. Let kids set their alarms, prepare their own breakfasts and get out the door on time all on their own. By the time their freshman year of college arrives, kids will know how to handle their mornings by themselves.

• Teach kids how to develop budgets. Another problem many first-year college students encounter is an inability to effectively manage their money. Whether you plan to give kids an allowance while they are in school or intend for them to work part-time for their spending money, use senior year of high school as an opportunity to show kids how to budget their money. If they don’t have accounts already, open bank accounts in your youngster’s name, and insist that he or she start paying for his or her expenses via these accounts. Resist the urge to give high school kids gas money or money for shopping trips if they have already spent their

allowances so they can learn how to effectively manage money between paydays. In addition, teach kids about the right and wrong ways to use credit cards, including the importance of paying balances in full and on time.

• Let kids handle more standard responsibilities. Adults tend to take more mundane responsibilities like making doctor’s appointments or grocery shopping for granted. But kids likely have no idea how to handle such tasks. Parents can encourage their high school seniors to make their own medical appointments. In addition, take kids along on grocery shopping trips, explaining how to find sale items and which foods to buy and which to avoid. Nutrition is not always foremost on the minds of college freshmen, but those who understand the importance of healthy diets are more likely to buy nutritious meals than junk food.

• Emphasize time management. Today’s high schoolers are busier than ever before, so many may already be prepared for the juggling act that is college life. But college students have more free time than their high school counterparts, so parents can emphasize the importance of managing that free time wisely as opposed to spending it lounging on the couch or napping.

The transition from high school to college can be both exciting and difficult. But parents can get a head start on that transition by encouraging their youngsters to be more independent during their final year of high school.

HOW PARENTS CAN SIMPLIFY STUDENTS’ TRANSITION TO COLLEGE LIFE


Triumph30161174


College is often met with excitement and interest by students pursuing their passions

and what they hope will be fulfilling, lucrative careers. And the rising costs of college, coupled with the growing number of students taking on substantial debt to finance their educations, make it necessary that prospective students consider their earning potential when deciding on a major.

According to the College Board, the average cost of college tuition and fees for the 2017-2018 school year was $34,740 at private colleges, $9,970 for state residents at public colleges, and

$25,620 for out-of-state residents attending public universities. Canadian citizens studying in

Canada can expect to pay $6,571 per year, according to Statistics Canada.

The cost of tuition and room

and board may catch parentsÕ eyes, but there are some lesser known expenses associated with college that can make attending school even more expensive. According to Cappex.com, a website offering ideas on how to pay for college, the extra costs of college can cost between $250 and $500 per month.

The following are some lesser known expenses that college students and their families may need to budget for this school year.

• Transportation: Commuter students will need to drive to and from campus, which involves budgeting for gas, repairs and auto insurance. Students who live on campus may be subjected to a high fee for a resident student parking pass. Colleges in the

United States earn an average of $4 million to $5 million

in parking revenues each year, according to the most recent rate study from the National

Parking Association. A typical four-year college or university in the United States charges about $635 per space for the school year. Other students use public transportation or ridesharing services to get around. Those fees can quickly add up, too. Students attending school far away from home also need to budget for plane tickets home during the holidays and other breaks.

• Fraternities and sororities: Many students join Greek organizations to fully immerse themselves in the college experience and make new friends. Many of these groups charge fees to prospective pledges and then semester dues once students are accepted. Parties, trips, living expenses, and other expenses may come up as well.

• Added fees: Many colleges and universities charge technology fees, sports center fees and activity fees. Exploring these fees in advance of the school year can help families create accurate budgets.

• Dining out: Families spend hundreds of dollars on campus meal plans per semester, but students also like to visit local eateries during the school year. Snacks, lunches and dinners purchased from such establishments can cost hundreds of dollars per year. Farmer’s Financial Solutions, a division of Farmer’s Insurance, says off-campus dining

expenses cost an average of $770 a year.

• School supplies: A new laptop or tablet, textbooks

and other supplies a professor requires can cost thousands of dollars. The College Board estimates students spend $1,300 on books and supplies in a typical school year.

The cost to attend college extends beyond tuition and room and board. Many additional expenses can stretch families’ budgets.

BE AWARE OF ALL THE COSTS FOR COLLEGE

The cost of tuition and room and board may catch parents’ eyes, but there are some lesser known expenses associated with college that can make attending school even more expensive.

Documents

HOW CERTAIN DEGREES IN NURSING CAN › wp-content › uploads › sites › 6… · resume, but discussing alternative dates with vendors with whom youÕre already under contract