Some Tips For Older And Younger Students Applying For Scholarships

Whether you are an older adult thinking about returning to school or a student younger than high school age (or the parents of one) planning for the future, making college financially possible is likely a concern for you. College costs are often prohibitive to deserving students. Fortunately, scholarships and grants can help a lot or a little, depending on the awards you qualify for. What many older prospective college students worry about is that they will not qualify for scholarships that are geared toward high school students. Similarly, young students trying to get*a leg up on the future fear that there is no way to begin earning college scholarships early.

The good news is that it is never too late or too early to begin planning for college, financially. Older students have many opportunities to win scholarships, as do younger students with the help from their parents. There are many organizations and funds out there that support college planning at any age, creating scholarships and grants for "nontraditional" age groups as well as prizes with no age restrictions whatsoever.

If you are an older student planning for college, your prospective school is a good resource to connect you with opportunities that benefit older students. You can also check out one of many online scholarship and grant databases. You'll likely find hundreds of opportunities for which you qualify. The best news is that there is often less competition for adult scholarships, as many adult students are not aware that these opportunities are available to them.

A tip for older students who are searching for scholarships and grants is to look for opportunities that specifically relate to you. For example, are you a single parent going back to college? There are many scholarships out there that benefit parents. Are you female and over 35? Among many other opportunities for adult women, the Jeanette Rankin Foundation Women's Education Fund awards scholarships to women pursuing college, technical training, or vocational training.

If you are a child or the parent of a child under age 13, finding scholarship opportunities can be a bit harder. They are out there, however. Your teachers may be able to provide you with resources. Your local public library may even have some information. You can even check online.

Many scholarships and grants for children award money based on an accomplishment such as a science project, piece of journalism, or community service. One example of a scholarship for kids interested in science is the Christopher Columbus Community Service Award, which rewards students who use science to solve a problem in their community. The National Geography Bee presents scholarships to students under 15 who achieve national recognition in a geography contest.

Finding scholarships at any age requires persistence and dedication. You should have something to offer to the world, so don't expect scholarship money to simply be handed to you. You will have to work for it, and most scholarships and grants are competitive.

Keep in mind that there are college grants and scholarships out there for deserving students of all ages. Whether you are in your 50s or still in elementary school, there's a scholarship out there waiting for your application if you are applying to a university or online college.

All Students Must Know About Studying Overseas

Studying overseas is greatly considered by parents who have children about to enter college or take after graduate studies. It is not that they do not have confidence in the education their respective countries provide. It is all about the benefits their children will get from such an experience.

For those living in non-English speaking countries, they see language acquisition as a primary goal for sending their children abroad to study. The world is a huge marketplace where people communicate through a universal language - the English language. In fact, businesses and companies are more drawn to hiring people or engaging into business deals with people who speak the language fluently. It is the exact opposite though for some native English speakers. They themselves go to other countries to learn a second language like French, Italian and the like.

Along with these study abroad opportunities are the practical experiences offshore learners could get from working in foreign countries of their choice. Many countries out there employ students in the person of small business owners, so long as they are complete with required papers especially student visas. Through such an opportunity, they are able to shoulder extra expenses they got to pay for school.

In connection to this, they get an edge over other students who after graduation hunt for careers abroad. Work experience in another country speaks a lot credential-wise. For whatever its worth, working while studying or vice versa is a once in a lifetime experience not all people get to have.

Students who have the interest to study abroad fail to do what they desire for two reasons. Firstly, realization of this dream is expensive. Secondly, the application process would be a pain in the neck. While studying abroad would really require enough funds and a long string processes, it is still achievable. They just have to get in touch with the appropriate education agencies that give out a number of study abroad programs.

Before getting an education agent, students must do some self-assessments first. For one, they should take the time to explore their interests and decide what courses or further studies would fit with what skills they wish to gain in college or graduate school. From there, they could research on the country or countries with educational institutions that could cater their educational needs.

When it comes to contacting educational agents, there are three things that students must consider. They are the latter's membership, business registrations and programs. Students can be assured of an agent's or an agency's professionalism and trustworthiness if it is a certified member of organizations known worldwide.

Business registration is another important credential students must check out. Before getting enticed with their educational offers, they must ascertain that the agencies they are dealing with are registered in their countries and their countries of destination.

Studying overseas is really a tough decision to make. Thus, credible agencies are expected to give students proposed programs and not merely refer them to colleges and universities for commissions' sake.

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Computer Courses That Give You an Edge

These days, you may have noticed that computers are everywhere and they are used for all manner of things; if it just so happens that you are skilled at computers and you want to make a living using computers, the you may want to get some computer courses that will help you hone your skills to a fine edge so that you also get that edge when you are applying for a job in computers. Another reason that you may want to get that course in computers would be when you know or think that your computer skills may need some more work and that you should get the training necessary if you want to have an edge in this computer obsessed world.

If you are not very good with your computer skills, you need not be shy because there are a lot of people out there who lack computer skills and all that while they may know how to use the internet, computers are used for more practical reasons than just that is if you happen to think that you need that edge, then do go on and get the training that you need for you to have that edge.

If you do not know much about computers to begin with, then you should know that you will not really have the easiest time but it is all about mindset; if you want it, then you will have to learn it. the subjects that you will have to tackle will not always be fun ones; like they will teach you all about the finer and more complicated points of MS Excel which as you know, is still in widespread use today; computer courses are indeed awesome and if you just take the time to really learn everything, you will notice that things will get easier and it will be more fun for you in the long run.

All you have to do is put in the timer and the effort; no one ever said that it would be easy; but it could be very challenging and fun. You get to explore MS word in Depth and you will get to learn about how to make visual presentations and how you can make them more informative and attractive so that people will learn from them. If you think that this is something that you would like to do then yes, go and get some computer courses that you can learn from.

Study IT and work in New Zealand as a computer technician, programmer or network administrator. For more information about different computer courses please visit AMES IT Academy website.

Top Tips for Choosing the Best University for You

So you've almost completed your A' Level or equivalent studies and you're now looking to go*to university. You need to get your UCAS form submitted as soon as possible but you're just not sure which universities to put down on your form as being 'preferable' to you and your needs, desires and aspirations. Choosing a university is a hugely important task. It is where you will spend the next three years or so of your academic life, and for many it is the place where, for the next few years, you will live, socialise and work. When it comes to choosing a university the world is your oyster, but such a great level of choice can make the task of identifying a university all more difficult to complete.

Below are a number of helpful tips to support you in your decision-making process!

- Rule out those universities that you are unlikely to be able to attend. There are many reasons why some universities just won't be an option to you; perhaps the entrance grades required are too challenging or the location of the university is too far away for you to consider.

- Draw up a criteria list which outlines all of the elements of university life that are important to you. This might include; distance from your family home, likely university choice of friends, the modules taught within your preferred course, the extra-curricular activities on offer, the social life, the style of accommodation on campus, the campus layout etc.

- Order your criteria appropriately, placing the elements that are most important to you at the top. If this is say, 'distance from your family home', work out exactly what distance is acceptable to you. You can then automatically rule out or rule in universities based on how well they meet your most important criteria.

- You've now got a short list of universities. Next, rate each university against the other elements on your criteria list. Use a simple scoring system such as 5 for absolutely meeting the criteria to 0 for absolutely not meeting the criteria! Once this process is completed, you can total up the scores and identify which universities score the highest.

- It's important to actually go and see those universities that you're strongly considering attending, as this will help you determine if you'd be happy studying at such a location. So remember to attend open days or arrange site visits with at least the top 3 universities that rated highest against your criteria list.

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Smartphone Apps for Students

When smartphones first came out, many schools banned them because students used them during class to play games or even cheat. However, as time has progressed, so have the apps for smartphones. Sure, there are still plenty of games that are out there, but there are now more apps that can help students on a day to day basis. Students now have the option to download apps that fit their study needs and help promote productive students and study times.
myHomework is a free app that can be very helpful for someone who has trouble remembering when assignments are due and what they are. The free app lets you track your classes and class schedule as well as organize homework assignments for all of your classes. You can also input when you have a test or an assignment due. It gives you an easy way to view of your assignments; a calendar view has your assignments organized by date, and when you click on a date it gives you a list of your assignments due. The only downside to this app may be that you have to register the app on their website so that you can sync your computer to your smartphone.
Another app is called Evernote. This app has won many awards and is highly recommended for just about anyone, not just students. It is very user friendly and allows you to record video, take photos, and take notes so you can remember everything possible. The app also can sync up to your computer or other device so no matter where you are you have your notes. It has other features like note sharing and collaboration of projects with friends, classmates or coworkers. You can even save your favorite webpages with links and everything on that page, plan your next trip with itineraries, maps, and official travel documents, or take pictures or notes of items you like online or in person so you can always remember it.
If you need help studying and your normal study tool is a set of flash cards, this next app is for you. gWhiz, LLC has an app available in iTunes called gFlash+ Flashcards & Tests. The app is great for any type of student, whether in high school or graduate school. gFlash+ is a free app that allows you to create and edit you own flash cards, and you can even add different aids to your cards like video or audio clips. You can even integrate your Google Docs with this app so you can create spreadsheets then upload them into your app. When you use your app for studying you can shuffle or scramble your cards, create different card groups, or combine or mix you decks of cards.
If you have an iPhone, Blackberry, or an Android phone, be sure to use it to your advantage. Don't abuse the chance to use your smartphone apps for class by playing games or texting friends during class. Some instructors will allow you to use your smartphone during class if it will help you academically. Of course, if you take your classes online they can't tell if you are using your phone, but you might as well use helpful apps so you aren't distracted during class, even online.

Professor-Student Relationships Online

Of course there are many misconceptions about what actually happens when a student attends an online school. As a person that has attended both a traditional school and a online school for my degrees it is easy to see the differences in how students and professors interact. There are the obvious responses about seeing them face to face, but in my experience each individual student dictates the relationship with the teacher no matter how they are attending school. This article will take a look at how the relationship differs when you attend an online school versus a traditional school.

One of the most obvious ways that the relationship will vary is what I already mentioned. When you attend a traditional school you are able to interact with your professor in a class room or office setting. You seen this person at least once a week and they are able to get to know you and your study habits personally. Some people take advantage of this opportunity and build great relationships with their teachers. The downside to this interaction is that it is usually only available during school hours. Once a professor's day is done they like to go home and enjoy their family and therefore are usually only available at certain times during the school day.

Now if you attend an online school, it can be a little harder to develop a relationship with your teacher in which you feel comfortable but it is still possible. By participating and asking question and even doing your work they become accustomed to your scholastic abilities so they come to know what to expect from you. At some schools they give you written feedback about your assignments, which is not something you always receive at a traditional school. Also their hours are also a little more flexible. Most online professors also have another job. Therefore they are usually available to answer your questions at night or on the weekends.

Another way in which students interact with their professors is through participation. At a traditional school it can be overwhelming for a student to answer a question in front of other peers so they may choose not to therefore the teacher has no concept on who understands the material or not. When you attend a top online school, you are constantly required to participate and it is easier for most students to do because they feel more comfortable being in their own home. This participation allows the teacher to make sure that the students understand the material and lets them know each students scholastic tendencies.

So there are advantages and disadvantages to both styles of student-professor relationships. As a student you have to understand which style will work best with your style of learning. It is important that you have a relationship with your professors either way so that they are accustomed to how you learn and they know what kind of work they can expect from you. By doing this, they will be able to help you if you ever need it.

The List Of Must Haves At College This Spring

Regardless where you go to school or how far or close you will be from home there are some items that no college freshman should leave for school without. While it may seem like common sense it is very fascinating how many college students don't think of many of the things on this list.

1. SOMETHING OLD: Most college freshman are looking forward to their new journey and can't wait to be on their own away from Mommy and Daddy. There are however many times during that first semester that a college freshman will grow homesick and during this time they will find it comforting to have a distinctive item from home. It could be something as simple as a photo album or a stuffed animal from childhood but most discover that even a small item from home can help to quell the homesickness for a while and assist them to regroup and focus.

2. SOMETHING NEW: These days it is all about gizmos and gadgets and while you may be thinking that they don't need these item realistically they do. Many schools require each student to have their own laptop computer from which they can complete assignments and download notes, worksheets and even class schedules. Along with a cell phone a laptop computer can not only be more functional but can help the individual to keep up with classes but also to keep up with friends and family both near and far.

3. HOUSEHOLD GOODS: It is critical to realize that no matter how small that dorm room is it is home for college freshman and thus must have all the comforts contained in it. Having a nice sheet set, matching comforter, towels, and smaller conveniences such as a minifridge and a microwave can make all the difference and finding ways to create hidden storage is a big plus as well. Remember this will not only be a place to study but to entertain as well so it must be created in a way to be both efficient and multi-use.

On the whole it may be tempting to pack up everything that your college freshman owns for them to carry with them away to school but this is not realistic. Dorm rooms are very modest and therefore a lot of thought must be put into the ways in which you can make the most out of the items that they have with them. Offering stuff that meet many needs all in one is always best and including some creature comforts will help to guarantee that your college freshman has a good and successful transition into an adult lifestyle.

If your kid is starting to college in a short amount of time you will be needing some college bedding for their dorm room. A great site to help with your search for dorm room bedding is rhl.org, they are a leading supplier for all things for the new home away from home. There are specialists to help you if necessary.

Great Tips for Preparing for College

Attending college can be an exciting but anxious time. To help ensure that you get off to the best possible start, it is important to understand how to prepare for college. You should be focused and driven, but this does not mean that there is no opportunity to also enjoy this period of your life. Yes, there will be days when you wish you were still in high school, but, in general, most people look back on their higher studies as one of the best periods of their life.

In order to reduce the overall stress that is felt, and help your adjust to your new life, you should take a moment to check out the following advice. The right amount of preparation can help ensure that your first year is memorable for all the right*reasons.

One of the most important activities that you will need to do prior to starting college is to decide where to live. If choosing an establishment close to your family's home, you may want to continue living with your parents. On the other hand, most students take the opportunity to attend college as a chance to gain their independence. There can be the option of moving into a dorm or even getting your own apartment.

Where you choose to live would in part be determined by your financial situation. Always check out a number of options before coming to any decision. An off campus apartment shared with other students may be cheaper that a regular dorm, but it can involve additional transport costs. Just make sure you decide on what accommodation you want early, the best choices get snapped up quick.

Another important issue that you should address relates to health insurance. Once you turn eighteen and leave home, it is unlikely that you will be covered by your parents health insurance policy. If you need to find your own coverage, do so well in advance of leaving home. There are some insurers who specialize in providing plans to young people.

The summer before starting your studies should be spent in a productive way. There can be the temptation to sit back and relax, but by doing so you may not be prepared mentally for when your enrollment day comes around. Try and spend the time leading up to beginning your course in a positive fashion, for example you could take up part time work or devote your energy to a voluntary project. It can also be an opportunity to travel and see some of the world before your responsibilities begin.

Think about how much money you will need to attend the program of your choice. Explore whether or not there are any scholarships that you can apply for. Never underestimate the cost of attending college, a grant or scholarship can make a real difference.

On a final note, when learning how to prepare for college, you should not overlook the importance of gathering together the material and equipment that you will need. Find out what books you will require, as well as any other items. As long as you start preparing well in advance, the transition to your new life should not be so difficult.

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Tips and Tricks for Tennis Scholarship Success

High school tennis players often hold the mistaken belief that only blue-chip athletes can qualify for college scholarships from colleges and universities. While raw talent is, of course, a factor in scholarship decisions, this is by no means the only qualification necessary to win a sports scholarship. There is college funding available at many levels of play, and students don't necessarily need Rafael Nadal's backhand to take advantage.

Tennis' rise in popularity in recent years has lead to a dramatic increase in competition for college-level tennis scholarships. The students who are most successful in their scholarship search are those who narrowly define their goals and abilities. Rather than concentrating on pursuing recruitment to a wide range of diverse programs, students should choose three or four programs which align most closely with their level of play.

There are many different competitive divisions within National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) tennis, including NCAA Divisions I and II, National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA). Each level has its own standards, which students should study carefully. Coaches most often award scholarships to students who fall within the top 10 percent of their bracket, so students are often more successful in pursuing scholarships in a bracket slightly lower than their top level of play.

One of the most common mistakes tennis players make is assuming that recruitment coaches will visit local tournaments and games to look for talent. In reality, most coaches develop prospect lists based on proactive contact with individual players. Prospective athletes should keep detailed records of their tournament history and game stats, and be prepared to send this information to recruitment coaches.

Contrary to what one might think, a student's life off the court plays a major role in scholarship potential. As a general rule, coaches must seek administrative approval before granting a sports scholarship to a prospective student. This means that grades, extracurricular activities and other factors play a role. Since colleges and universities have been faced with shrinking endowments in recent years, schools are more eagerly seeking players who can excel both academically and on the court.

While it's statistically unlikely that most tennis scholarship recipients will go on to professional-level play, there are still a wide variety of career options which are open to students who have played competitive college ball. As tennis continues to rise in popularity, the demand for qualified coaches and pros has grown proportionately, and coaching opportunities are plentiful in schools, country clubs and tennis academies around the US and abroad.

Author writes about a variety of topics. If you would like to learn more about sports scholarships, visit http://www.collegeanswer.com/.

Alcohol on Campus

Many students are excited to go to college and to be on their own for the first time away from mom and dad. Their college years are normally the years they decide to find themselves, but while they find themselves there are many things they should be aware of, like alcohol. Let's not pretend that college is an alcohol free zone and get down to the facts about alcohol and how it affects today's students.

Underage drinking at college is a large problem and many of these students don't know their limit and simply make poor choices while under the influence. The legal drinking age in the United States is 21; anyone under the age of 21 is considered a minor. It is illegal to give alcohol to a minor in the United States, and illegal for a minor to consume alcohol. While trying to ignore the fact that minors do indeed get drunk, we still need to look at the major safety issues that go along with drinking while in college or at any point in time for that matter.

Drinking and driving is the leading cause of death of minors; about 5,000 teenagers die from being involved in an accident from drunk driving. No matter how many drinks you have had, you should not get behind the wheel. If you do you become a hazard to not only yourself, but also to any passengers you have and other drivers on the road; not to mention it's illegal. Perhaps you find yourself in a situation where you did drive somewhere and then had a drink or two. You should find a way to get home that doesn't involve you driving, such as calling a friend or family member or getting a taxi. If you aren't in a place where taxis swing by regularly, ask the bar tender or someone to call you a cab or a car service and then someone can take you home. Most college campuses do offer pick up services or car pool services for that exact purpose. Check with the colleges University Police Department (UPD) to see if they offer this service or if someone else in the town does.

Another problem is binge drinking, meaning having four or more drinks in one sitting. Binge drinking can normally lead to alcohol abuse or dependency. People who do binge drink are normally people who have just turned 21, but really about two out of five college students are binge drinkers. Student's drink this way may wind up making huge mistakes that can have a huge impact on the rest of their lives. When someone does binge, they may become hurt or injured, hurt or injure another, drive under the influence, engage in unprotected sex or unplanned sex, miss class or work, fall behind on class work or other work, and may even get in trouble with the campus police or local police. Majority of rapes on campus result from an event or gathering that alcohol was involved, and some students have said they were too drunk to even know if they consented to sex.

Let's not pretend that drinking doesn't happen on college campuses, instead, we should learn the affects alcohol has on students. Being smart when it comes to drinking can help keep you safe, and who knows, may even keep you alive. Be sure you know your limit if you do go drink at a party, and call a cab, friend or family member instead of driving you home. Don't use the excuse that they will be angry with you because in the end, your safety is what matters and they would much rather know you are safe then you driving drunk and being in a serious, possibly fatal, accident.

The Arts Offer A Variety Of Undergraduate Degree Programs

The University of Central Florida has a variety of options for students who wish to pursue an undergraduate degree in art. Depending on what you want to accomplish throughout your Bachelor's program, you can be sure to find it here.

One option available for students is to enroll in the Emerging Media Track in Art. This program allows students the ability to combine art, storytelling, and technology through their work. A broad perspective of the arts and technologies is examined in the program. Students can choose from three different specializations in this track, one of them being Graphic Design. The foundation of the program provides competency in your area of specialization.

Students can also choose to study in Art History. In this program, students are able to study various techniques used throughout the centuries in the world of art. They are also able to gain knowledge from the past and apply it to their current work. The historical meanings and studio applications of the human image are closely examined and are critical to the core if this program.

Students also have the choice to earn a Bachelor's or Bachelor's of Fine Arts in Studio Art. The Fine Arts option is meant to provide students with a preparation in professional practices and is highly recommended for those who students who are planning to attend graduate school. Students are able to fine tune their craft through the use of a variety of artistic mediums.

The University also offers a degree in Visual Arts and Emerging Media Management. This option is designed to give students a background in the visual arts while also preparing them to step into roles as lead artistic directors and other such positions by the time they graduate. Students in the program are able to take a collection of courses that enable them to hone their craft while also giving them adequate management skills.

If teaching art classes is in your future, then you will benefit from the University's Art Education program. Students in this program will be able to learn artistic techniques and how to effectively teach them to others. By the end of your program, students will be able to apply for their teaching certificate and work with students in grades K-12. This is a great way to use your artistic skills to help others and is perfect for those who like to work with kids.

Students are also able to take part in the Digital Media program as well. Students can choose from two areas, either game design or web design, when they enroll into this program. Students are able to use various technology applications that are currently used in the industry. The aspects of humanities and related disciplines are also explored throughout the program.

The university has a lot of great options for students who want to earn their Bachelor's degree in art. Depending on what it is you want to achieve through your undergraduate program, you will be able to find it here. You will definitely earn a great college degree at the University of Central Florida. Some programs may allow you to earn a Bachelor online.

Reconstruction and the Post Bellum South

Cunning connivance is the thought that comes to mind when uttering the phrase "conjure tales." The word "conjure" itself is rich with meaning; it conveys the idea of a deliberate falsehood when someone conjures up a tall tale. Yet within the context of "Conjure Tales," it likely takes on the meaning, "of or practicing folk magic; a conjure woman." The oft-repeated phrase spoken by Julius, to "cunjuh wuk" likely seems to reference the latter of the two definitions, but takes on a myriad of meanings -- possibly even a double entendre - as Julius refers to the work of conjurers such as Tenie or Primus, all the while conjuring up tall tales himself! These clever yet untrue tales, which are met with great delight by his employers, most often relay a message that is supposed to not only entertain, but serve as a warning (i.e., not to knock down the schoolhouse, or not to purchase the vineyard). It is usually learned quickly thereafter that there was another reason for these tales: Julius had other designs.

Though Julius's warnings are ignored with respect to purchasing the plantation, his later screeds frequently result in decisions that are favorable to the African-American community: though the schoolhouse was supposedly haunted, and its wood not used to build their new kitchen, Julius nevertheless quickly used it for their temperance meetings, remarking that if there were a spirit within it, "no doubt the preaching would do it good." What this emphasizes, as well, are the subtle yet powerful actions that were necessarily employed by African-Americans in the period of Reconstruction - and later the Jim Crow South. In order to transcend the intentional and repressive acts perpetrated by white Southerners who greatly resented their emancipation and suffrage, these recently freed men and women had to battle predatory credit practices, racist labor policies, and even murderous lynch mobs. Nothing short of cunning tactics and oftentimes a conjured up tale (or spell) were all that could be done.

From the outset of Reconstruction, formerly wealthy aristocrats, landholders and great planters of the South sought by means of artifice to deny the recently-freed slaves their right to vote, their say in a representative government, or the ability to own land. These impediments were levied in the form of the Black Codes; the rise of the Ku Klux Klan; and poll taxes or other sorts of extremely difficult reading tests meant to disenfranchise. Of course, these tests also had the unintended (or intended?) consequence of disenfranchising poor, undereducated white males as well. Not surprisingly, unique and clever means were devised by the freed African slaves to circumvent such repressive tactics. Their efforts notwithstanding, the Republican Congress also sought - often by overriding Johnson's vetoes - to moderate these pernicious acts engaged in by the Southern leaders.

Interestingly enough, these tales also highlight a pervasive ignorance that can be seen not only in Julius's superstitious stories, but in his speech as well. In reference to the often inane stories, John, who is white, stated frankly: "your people will never rise in the world until they throw off these childish superstitions and learn to live by the light of reason and common sense." This is closely akin to the words of Booker T. Washington, who in reference to the freed slaves' inability to lift themselves up from poverty and discrimination, said that "Blacks should, moreover, refine their speech, improve their dress, and adopt habits of thrift and personal cleanliness; they should, in short, adopt the standards of the white middle class."

While any of these changes might have helped incrementally during the period of Reconstruction and the subsequent era of Jim Crow, it was more the pervasive ignorance of the white Southerners that perpetuated these injustices. Today, we have a rich and unique cultural heritage to draw from when reading tales such as these. Nevertheless, changing habits and dress to better "assimilate" into white culture would not bring true equality; it would not come until white males in power had the moxie to "conjure up" some fitting legislation in response to the 1960s civil rights movement. Only then were African-Americans truly able to reap the benefits of Mr. Lincoln's efforts nearly a century earlier.

JAMES ALFRED MOLNAR
Wake Forest University
http://www.CharlestonBattlefields.com

Top 3 LVN Schools In California

LVN schools in California are undoubtedly among the best in the country, but obviously some are much better than others. You can't simply enroll yourself in any school, you've got to make sure that it's the right school for you. There are a few good schools that are known for their standards of excellence and consistently produce graduates of a high caliber, and this is reflected in the hiring policy of the health industry in general. At the end of this article, you'll be able to make an informed decision as to which LVN schools in California to apply for so as to have the best career prospects when you graduate.

Why LVN Schools In California?

Before we get into the best LVN schools in California, firstly you may want to know why choose to study in California at all? Well, they have some of the best nursing programs in the country for one, and it's a state where there's already a very high demand for nurses so the funding, infrastructure and standards of education to produce good nursing graduates are all there as well. You can be assured that you are getting the very best nursing education that money can buy when you choose to study in California.

Top 3 LVN Schools In California

There are three major LVNs in California that I would highly recommend: the University of San Diego, the University of California (San Francisco) and the University of California (Los Angeles). All of these schools offer top LVN programs for undergraduates, and you can opt to take up your BSN and beyond with them as well. The healthcare industry gives greater recognition to nursing graduates of these three schools in particular both locally and nationally, and there are many well respected experts in the field actually teaching in these schools so you'll definitely be on the cutting edge of nursing practice in the U.S. and beyond.

Apart from these top three LVN schools in California, you have a wide range of options available in terms of many public and private colleges all around the state. You may have certain budget constraints or perhaps you just prefer to study in a smaller institution. You don't have to attend one of these schools to get top results, in fact many top graduates have come from other schools as well. So not to worry, no matter what your needs are, there is a school that suits you and I will help you find it.

Let me help you find the best LVN schools in California to meet your study needs.

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Tips for Attending a College Fair

Attending college fairs is one way that students can begin the process of narrowing down what schools to apply to for higher education. There are many institutions available with representatives on hand to explain the application process. This is a key step for high school students, especially those who have not yet made decisions on where they want to attend or what major they might pursue.

The Set-Up
Most college fairs are sponsored by a school or local career counseling agencies in an effort to help high school students find a career path through higher education. Many private schools and local government educational systems offer college fairs as a means to help their students excel in education and attend college. The event may be held during the school day or in the evening, depending on the location. It typically features representatives from at least dozens different colleges, universities and trade schools. The fair is usually set up in a large room, such as the cafeteria or gymnasium with separate tables for each school. At least one representative from each university - sometimes more - sits at the booth with a few empty chairs for students to sit and chat. Brochures and paraphernalia from the institution are available for visitors to take as they wish. Students walk around the room and visit each table to learn more about the schools and their programs. Most participants are from local universities that draw a large number of students from that high school or district, or would like to boost their recruiting class.

Purpose
The purpose of college fairs is two-fold. The schools want to find potential applicants that can enhance their student body. The students want to find a university that offers their major and is a good fit for earning a college degree. Students can find out more about various undergraduate scholarships for college, as well as grants and financial aid packages, by speaking to these representatives. When planned in advance, some universities will use this as an opportunity to interview potential bidders for academic scholarships and early admissions applicants.

Preparation
Students who want to make the most of the fair should do a little bit of homework beforehand. They should secure a list of attendees and determine whether any hold their interest. If the student does not know anything about the school, they might consider looking up location, school size, tuition costs and whether they offer the student's major interest or have a reputable sports program that fits the player's talents. Making a list of each university of interest is the first step. A list of questions will help to narrow down the choices for applications.

Visiting Tables
Each table will hope to have as many possible recruits visit with them as they can muster. The student should take time to visit only those tables that pique their interest. Most representatives will ask each child to fill out an interest card. This will put them on a mailing list. Kids who plan ahead will create and bring along stickers imprinted with their name, address, telephone, high school, expected graduation date, major of interest and sports or extracurricular interests. These stickers can be affixed to the interest cards, saving a lot of time and hand cramping from excessive writing.

Sessions
Some fairs will offer informational sessions or seminars about choosing the right college and familiarizing high school students with the admissions, acceptance, scholarships and financial aid processes. Those seeking more information will want to attend these free and objective events.

Author is the parent of college students who likes to research academic scholarships, like the ones found at http://www.collegeanswer.com/.

Saving Money On Your College Education

College days, to most college freshmen and their parents, is a time of transformation but it is also a very expensive time. While it may seem that you need to spend through the nose to get a very good education you will likely find that there are some ways to get around overspending that will still permit your student to come out of school with a good degree from a high end university in their hand.

To begin with even the best of students these days are finding that they can attend a local Community College and live at home with Mom and Dad for the first two years of their college education at least. This can significantly reduce the overall cost of a student's education and can allow them and their parents a little more time to save up for that high end university and the high dollar tuition that will come along with it.

The great thing about doing this is that you can still wind up with a degree from a good four year school but you will only wind up paying for one or two years of tuition to that institution and these days every little bit you can save will help. In addition to saving on tuition you will also find that when you do attend a school away from home that it may be just as cost effective to share an apartment or house locally with several fellow students as it is to stay on campus. When you transfer you are usually given this option. And while many think that they will save with on campus living they usually notice pretty quickly that the savings is minimal if at all and the limits and restrictions to a two person dorm room are very confining.

Used books are a great deal and a great way to save money on you college education as well. When it comes to acquiring your books you need to pick them up early if you want to get the cheaper used books because they can disappear fast. Of course, some subjects will only have new books to offer but even then if you are good at online shopping then you will likely be able to locate a deal on a particular text book you will need.

Certainly, in the end while you may be tempted to spend more to get that degree from a big name college or university, a degree is a degree. No matter what school your degree comes from you will most likely discover that you are able to get a good job in your field. And unless you are preparing to run for congress or become president of the U.S. you are likely to be just fine with a degree from a lesser known college or university.

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Dealing With Stress In College

In college, every student experiences stress. For some students, a little stress is a motivator that helps them prepare and perform. For other students, stress exceeds their level for tolerance and makes them lose their focus, wastes their time, saps their energy and sabotages their performance. Too much stress is never good for us.

In college, sources of stress can include:
1. People - Family members, boy/girlfriends, professors, employers, dorm mates and others can all cause stress when conflicts arise.

2. Deadlines, Workload and Difficult Assignments - It is easy to feel overwhelmed when there are too many difficult things to do and not enough time to do them. Consistently long hours can cause stress.

3. Money & Job Issues - Many students go through college using money they have borrowed and with the money they earn from part-time and summer jobs. When unexpected expenses pop up or when an income source is interrupted or stops, things can get complicated and stressful.

4. Loneliness / Isolation - Stress can occur when students get homesick and miss their families and old friends. Others fail to make friends at college and feel lonely or isolated.

5. The Environment - Dorm living can mean compromises, cramped quarters, shared bathrooms, bright lights, noise, little privacy and messy conditions. All of this can be stressful.

6. Trauma - When students have been in an accident or are assaulted, raped, harassed or in some way harmed, they will be stressed.

7. Health Issues - Students who are physically ill or psychologically injured, often are already or will soon become stressed and depressed. Signals from your body can include can include nervousness, headaches, eye strain, upset stomachs, tears and back pain.

Coping mechanisms include:

1. Physical Activity - Since stress usually manifests itself in the body, physical activity can help to relieve the problem. Forms of activity include: Exercise, Walking, Jogging, Sports of all kinds, Calisthenics, Dancing, Rope Skipping, Ping Pong, Yoga, Deep Breathing, A Massage, Singing, Stretching, Squeeze Toys, Twisting a Towel, Screaming and Laughing.

2. Food & Beverages - Avoid caffeine and sugar. Eat a healthy diet including fruit and vegetables. Recognize that carbohydrates can relieve stress but add weight. Consider Popcorn and Pretzels (Low-fat, Hi-Carb foods).

3. Establish Schedules and Routines - Go to sleep at the same time each night. Get 7 or 8 hours of sleep during the week. Get up at the same time each morning. Eat a healthy breakfast. Define you study times.

4. Preparation - Gather the tools and do the research before you get started. Understand what is needed. When you are prepared, there is little reason to be stressed. Break large projects into a series of small projects. Identify the critical parts and do them first. Get help with the things you do not understand. When you get tired of working on one segment, switch to another segment for a while.

5. Your Attitude - Consider meditation and use visualization for being in a peaceful place and being successful in what you are about to do. Create a few personal incentives and rewards for achieving a milestone and accomplishing the goal. Relaxing music can also help. Keep some flowers in your room. Play with a pet. View your favorite comedy movie. Spend time with an upbeat friend. All of these things can improve your attitude.

6. Think Prevention - Anticipate and prevent problems. Start and finish things early. Set priorities. Allocate enough time. Build in a cushion for the unexpected. Get help when it is needed. Fight procrastination. Take periodic breaks. Set Limits. Say "no" to the unimportant things. Avoid the last minute rush. Strive for a balance. Learn the principles of time management. Use a calendar, a To-Do List and a planner.

When you recognize and understand the causes of your stress, it is easier to develop a plan to prevent as many as possible and deal more effectively with those that remain. However, if you find that stress is severely interfering with your performance, visit the Health Services Office on your campus to get some additional advice.

Bob Roth, a former campus recruiter, is the author of four books: The College Student's Companion, College Success: Advice for Parents of High School and College Students, The College Student's Guide To Landing A Great Job -and- The 4 Realities Of Success During and After College. Known as The "College & Career Success" Coach, Bob writes articles for College Career Services Offices, Campus Newspapers, Parent Associations and Employment Web Sites. Bob has created The Job Identification Machine™, a system that colleges use to identify thousands of employment opportunities for students. He has been interviewed on numerous radio programs across the country and by many publications, including U.S. News & World Report and The Wall Street Journal. http://www.The4Realities.com. Bob's Blog- http://collegesuccess.blog.com

Ways To Enjoy An Alcohol-Free College Experience

A Bachelor's degree program is the four-year, traditional college experience that has pervaded popular culture. Many high school students look forward to entering their Bachelor's degree program so that they can join a Greek organization, enjoy an active college social life, and often indulge in the use of alcohol. Of course, many students do not drink. These students often worry that they will not fit in at college or that they will miss out on crucial college experiences. Of course, this is completely untrue. There are many ways to have a great time in college without drinking.

Whether it is due to being underage or because of your personal beliefs, it is perfectly acceptable not to drink in college. Many other students share your beliefs and choose to abstain from alcohol use as they work towards their college degree. Unfortunately, some of your peers may think differently, however. College culture in the United States too often revolves around alcohol use. It can be difficult for students to stand up for their personal beliefs by saying no to alcohol during college.

One of the biggest steps you can take as a non-drinker is to pick a college that supports your beliefs. You may not have been aware that some colleges and universities throughout the United States are "dry," meaning that they do not permit the use of alcohol on campus. In some cases, this is due to the religious beliefs of the organization that founded the college. Many students who choose to earn their Bachelor's degree from a "dry" college do so because they share this value. You'll find plenty of like-minded friends and alternative forms of fun on a "dry" campus.

If your college allows the use of alcohol on campus, that doesn't mean that every student chooses to make alcohol the center of all fun and recreation. Many colleges have organizations or clubs for students who choose not to drink. Joining this club will allow you to meet others with your same values, as well as to attend club-hosted parties that don't include alcohol.

Most colleges have plenty of fun activities where students can get involved and socialize without drinking. Joining a sports team, student club or organization, or participating in college-sponsored trips and outings are all great ways to have a rewarding social experience that does not revolve around alcohol.

Just because you don't drink doesn't mean you can't participat in social events where alcohol is served. If you feel pressured to drink at a party, simply pour your soft drink into an unidentifiable cup. No one will know you're not drinking.

Standing up for what you believe in is important, but you should practice being graceful about it. You don't have to explain your reasons for choosing not to consume alcohol, but being prepared with a casual statement about why you are making this choice may help others to accept this and stop pressuring you to drink.

You'll likely find that many of your friends in college will drink, but you don't have to give in to peer pressure. Also, for half of your Bachelor's degree, you will be underage. A university degree should not revolve around alcohol and parties. There are ways of having fun in college without drinking if you keep an open mind and encourage others to do the sale.

Co-Education Concept

Co-education is common in almost all the advanced western countries like, France, Britain, Russia, America and Canada. It is to be found in many great eastern countries like Turkey, China, Japan and Nigeria and in others parts of the world like Australia and South America.

There are surely some great benefits of co-education. First of all it gives a good training to boys and girls to work together. While studying side by side in different class they learn to cooperate for common aims or purposes. After completing their education they can easily join different professions together. They can work together for common national aims at scientific research centres, in hospital and offices and even in factories to increase national production.

Boys and girls studying together can discuss their subjects and can help each other in understanding them well. Boys may be able to understand and know some subjects or their parts compared to girls. They can explain and discuss them with girls. So girls may be able to explain some arts to boys in their own ways.

Co-education can make boys and girls compete with each other in studies. Both can try to learn more and do better in discussions and at examination. This can surely help raise education standards.

Co-education gives enough chances to boys and girls to study their subjects together from highly qualified and exceptionally able teachers. Both ale and female teachers of good repute can teach in co-educational institutions. Such teachers are not easily available in scientific and technical subjects like Chemistry, Biology, Medicine, Engineering and so on. Even in languages like French and German, we may not easily find highly qualified teachers for higher classes. Then male and female teachers can work together and discuss their problems of teaching. They can co-operate in scientific research or in advanced studies.

Co-education helps boys and girls to understand each other's problems. Girls can prove successful wives and boys successful husbands after the completion of their education. They can work side by side for a better society as equal citizens.

Yet co-education has some disadvantages. In educational institutions girls cannot always take part in sports, debates, etc alone with boys. They cannot often work actively with boys in social functions. They often have to make separate arrangements of their own games or other activities. But these are not as good as those for boys or those in girls' college. This gives a feeling of dissatisfaction to the girls.

It may not be possible to teach and explain all the parts of a subject to boys and girls together. There are some topics in subjects like psychology and medicine which cannot be easily discussed before both the sexes. As a result, the teacher may not be able to explain them fully. Sometimes the teacher may not be able to talk about problems of girls before boys and those of boys before girls.

In spite of the disadvantages of co-education we may not be able to do without it. It is necessary to make a proper use of co-education. It is quite possible to get benefits of co-education and avoid most of the disadvantages.