Movin' On 2017 - MGCCC by Venture Publications

The BEST CHOICE is right in front of YOU! www.mgccc.edu • Academics • Career/Technical • Healthcare • 1-866-735-1122

GET STARTED TODAY AT MGCCC!

– SEE CENTER SPREAD!

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 HOW TO BOSS YOURSELF AROUND Want to be your own boss? See great business options. 6 MAKE THE MOST OF COLLEGE Be college-ready with our 4 keys to a 4.0 8 TAKE IT EASY! TIPS FOR TEST TAKING! “Best Practices” for test taking. 10 PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD Impress your professors and bosses with these 4 qualities. 12 HEALTHCARE IN THE DIGITAL AGE Tech is impacting healthcare. Discover new careers. 14 UNLEASH THE LEADER IN YOU Yes, you can be a leader! What does that really mean? 16 WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GO? Choose your career path? See the 6 career paths and 16 career clusters.

f you’ve ever seen the wildly popular ABC show Shark Tank , then you know that a panel of millionaire and billionaire investors listen to business and product ideas from budding entrepreneurs. If they like what they hear they can bid on an ownership stake in the company.

17 HOT JOBS WITH BRIGHT FUTURES Take our Personality Quiz! Then explore HOT careers by personality types, career paths and education needed. 26 START LOCAL – GO GLOBAL 4 Myths about a Two-Year College – Make a Smart Choice! 30 HOW TO PAY FOR COLLEGE You can find the money for college! Here’s how!

For FREE TEACHER GUIDE go to www.venturepubs.com/teacherguide/mo

® 28th Edition, October 2016 © 2016 by Venture Publications, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Movin’ On is protected through Trademark Registration in the United States. Published annually for sponsoring school districts, career centers, two-year colleges, and state and Federal grant programs. EDITOR: Matthew Price DESIGN: Edward Patton CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Mark Rowh, Matthew Price, Andrea Frankenfeld, Dennis Trittin, Toni Fitzpenn, Dawn Verner. PHOTOGRAPHY: Tom Hanks as Forrest Gump, Photography by: Anton_Ivanov / Shutterstock, Shutterstock, Drew Hanlen photos courtesy of Pure Sweat Basketball, ISF World Championship Softball 2014, Jan de Wild / Shutterstock PHONE: 615-662-0236 FAX: 615-662-0230 EMAIL: toni@venturepubs.com

www.venturepubs.com

Of course, if you take out the flashy set, the ominous music, and the wisecracking panel then you basically have a group of men and women who are pursuing the American Dream of being their own boss and controlling their own destiny. Just like millions of others who graduate from college and enter the workforce each year. Of course, like all good things, there are many pluses and minuses to consider before taking the plunge in the deep end of the entrepreneurship pool. Explaining why she loves being her own boss, Angella Luyk, owner of two businesses in Rochester, New York, explains, “No one can tell me what to do, because I’m the boss. I’m in charge of my own future.” However, she cautions, “It can get tough and scary, because everything relies on you.” So is owning your own business best for you or should you pursue a more traditional career path? Actually there isn’t a right or wrong answer. Just like in sports, some are great team players while others excel at individual competition. One talent isn’t any better or more respected than the other. The same is true when you enter the business world. Some people prefer working in a corporate environment with relatively stable hours, a group of familiar coworkers, and a steady paycheck. Others decide to take a more “adventurous” route where the hours are almost always long, the income sometimes uncertain, but the rewards can be both personally and financially satisfying. Like with any career path, though, it’s important to do your research before leaping ahead. For instance, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, success rates for start-up businesses vary widely. The health care and social assistance industries, for example, typically rank among the best

businesses to launch, while construction ranks among the worst. So let’s look at a few business opportunities based on some very specific likes and preferences to see where your options for career independence may lie. We’ll also focus on both traditional and emerging small business concepts. In every example, the common denominator is education – you’ll need solid training; whether it’s a certificate program or an advanced degree. When you’re so hi-tech that hi-tech isn’t hi-tech enough . . . Yes, it’s true, flying cars may still be a distant dream; however, self-driving cars are closer to becoming a reality. This is just one example of the rapidly developing industry surrounding artificial intelligence (or AI). While most AI progress supports the ever-growing need for gathering and analyzing information for business, government, and personal use, many other opportunities exist. In its August 2016 online edition, Inc. identifies four major business categories where tremendous growth is projected. These are data interpretation which builds on synthesizing vast amounts of information; smart robots that can be trained and operate autonomously; smarter virtual assistants which, unlike Siri, can better memorize your preferences and can search the Internet for answers; and affective computing that predicts a person’s needs by analyzing the user’s moods through voice intonation and facial expressions. Amazing stuff!

funds to buy standard tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, etc.) and specialty equipment (like leak detectors and ohm meters). Your most significant purchase, of course, will be a large truck or van to haul new and used air conditioners, heaters, and furnaces.

Also Consider: Plumber Mason Home Inspector Electrician

Wow, you look great . . . Everyone wants to look their best. Everyone. This is why there will always be a demand for professionals who can help the rest of us smile each day when we look in the mirror. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 10 percent growth for hairdressers between now and 2024, which is faster than average for all occupations. Also called hairstylists or barbers, hairdressers offer their customers a wide range of services including coloring, styling,

Also Consider: Information Research Scientist Computer Network Architect Hardware Engineer Software Developer

Hey, it’s hot in here . . .

n intrapreneur is an employee who develops a profitable independent business within a large corporation. Companies create intrapreneurial jobs so they can retain creative people who are most productive and happiest when working primarily on their own. And, for the intrapreneur it’s an opportunity to pursue their entrepreneurial vision with the safety net of a steady income and funding for manufacturing, travel, and other expenses.

Movin’ On

For most people in the United States, it gets hot in the summer. Really hot. Just like it gets really cold in the winter. While these seasonal extremes are bad news when you have to pay the utility bills, the baking sun and icy polar blasts are really good news for anyone who owns a heating and air conditioning installation and repair business. Like any successful business person, it’s important to start with a solid education — in this case a “heating, ventilating, and air conditioning” (or HVAC) certificate or degree. You’ll also need several years of on-the job training and experience. It’s essential that you save for or have the credit to borrow the Did You Know? Approximately 45% of undergraduates attend community colleges.

cutting, and shampooing. In addition, they offer advice on the best way to care for a certain type of hair at home and recommend and sell specific shampoos, conditioners, and hair treatments.

Also Consider: Stylist/Make-up Artist Manicurist Skincare Specialist Athletic Trainer

Uh, some guy from the IRS keeps calling . . .

At 5’11” Drew Hanlen may not look like a basketball superstar but that’s exactly what he is. As the founder and CEO of Pure Sweat – with NBA clients like Andrew Wiggins, Dwight Howard, Zach LaVine, David Lee, and many others – Drew has developed a business that allows him to live and breathe the game he loves. Drew’s business began relatively early in life. While working at a concession stand at a basketball tournament, the thenhigh school junior used his downtime to run through a personal training session he had developed on an unused court in the gym. A parent of one of the tournament players offered Drew $20 per hour to “toughen up” his son. “He said, ‘My kid is soft and I wish he worked as hard as you do,’” Drew recalled in an interview he conducted with Perform Media. “Obviously, as a junior in high school, someone offering me money to be on a basketball court was a no-brainer.” Drew chose Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee for college, primarily because of its strong entrepreneurship program. While at Belmont, as part of his academic program, he developed the business he appropriately named Pure Sweat. Today this highly successful basketball training company offers a wide variety of products and services to players and coaches at all levels. While Drew’s dream was to play in the NBA, his entrepreneurial skills have allowed him to have a lasting impact on the game. 4

Check out Pure Sweat at puresweatbasketball.com and follow @PureSweat. Follow Drew on his social media platforms @DrewHanlen.

Math is the one skill all entrepreneurs must excel (or at least work hard) at to succeed. It makes sense, then, that some business owners take their skills to the next level by providing math based services to clients. This is especially true for those who have earned their bachelor’s or master’s degree and passed the four-part Uniform Public Accountant Examination to become a certified public accountant (CPA). CPAs handle a variety of services for their clients including tax preparation, auditing, and general accounting. Others serve a more integral and dynamic role by providing consultation on compensation and benefits plans, creating reports for investors and boards, and designing custom accounting systems.

Also Consider: Bookkeeper Auditor Financial Analyst Personal Financial Advisor

Every Millennial’s dream job . . . Did you help your dad set-up and build his Facebook account? Do adults ask you questions about the difference between a blog, a vlog, and blog talk radio? Do even your friends admire how you always know the latest trends in social media? Then you may have the perfect job skills for one of the fastest growing service needs in the country. Today most businesses, both large and small, regularly launch social media campaigns. In fact, according to a JWT Intelligence study, in 2016 the number of companies with more than 100 employees using Instagram for marketing will reach more than 48 percent. Since many of these online marketing projects are “farmed out” to freelancers, the opportunities for working regularly on something you enjoy are increasing dramatically.

Also Consider:

Publicist Marketing Consultant Fundraising Specialist Copywriter

Insurance Agent Financial Services Salesperson Property Manager Interior Decorator

SOLD . . . What’s the most expensive thing you ever bought? A new (or used) laptop? Maybe even a car? Well, none of these compare to the financial commitment it takes to purchase a condo or house. That’s why a well-established real estate broker is one of the most trusted and respected professionals in a community. Brokers are realtors who hold a special license that generally requires 60 to 90 hours of training and one to three years of experience. Once their qualifications have been completed a broker can open an office and employ a team of realtors. Because real estate is such a vital part of our nation’s economy, many two-year colleges and universities offer related courses that lead to certification—although some now have associate or bachelor’s degree programs in real estate.

Helping yourself by helping others . . . As people live longer and the needs of the elderly increase – including conditions like dementia, Parkinson’s, and arthritis, to name a few – new opportunities are opening up for entrepreneurs. And, with the ever rising costs of assisted living centers, home health care agencies are providing a much needed and affordable alternative. To succeed in this field, it’s not only important to be compassionate but an educational background that extends beyond nursing is essential. Because the many regulations for home health care change frequently — from strict rules for Medicare and Medicaid documentation to the detailed terms for insurance reimbursement — it’s important to take business classes so you’ll be able to ensure full compliance.

Also Consider: Childcare Service Owner Optometrist Dentist Assisted Living Facility Owner

So, as you can see, when it comes to being an entrepreneur the opportunities are nearly limitless. With that said, it’s time to ask yourself, “When can you start? Study Try not to schedule back-to-back classes. You’ll wear yourself out and miss the best times to study – right before and after class.

EXPLORE BUSINESS TIPS ON THE WEB!

There’s a world of help for entrepreneurs on the Internet. Here’s a sampling of some key sites:

is the largest independent news source dedicated to digital culture, social media, and technology.

ProBlogger (problogger.net) is the home for bloggers wanting to create and grow their blogs.

A Smart Bear (blog.asmartbear.com)

offers helpful posts on entrepreneurial life and best practices for small businesses.

Inc. Magazine Guides (inc.com)

provides a growing collection of short, educational articles on business-related topics.

Junior Achievement (ja.org)

is a partnership between the business community, educators, and volunteers — all working together to inspire young people to dream big and reach their potential.

Small Business Administration (sba.gov)

lists programs and services to help your business start, grow, and succeed.

Better Business Bureau (bbb.org/us)

is an ethical marketplace where buyers and sellers can trust each other.

Movin’ On

Mashable (mashable.com)

Fo u r K ys to a 4.0

Attending college will open up all kinds of opportunities for your future. If you’ve been an outstanding student, you can build on that success. Or if you haven’t done as well as you would have liked, you have a clean slate and a fresh new start! By following these 4 keys to college success, you will be well on your way to a very fulfilling and rewarding future!

Be a serious student. From the very first days of your college career, take things seriously. Carefully review the syllabus, or detailed outline, for each course you’re taking. Follow up on assignments, and stay on schedule. “Study from the first day,” says Deanna Brown, a graduate of Coconino Community College in Arizona. “Plan your work, and don’t get behind.” If possible, connect with other students outside of class. “Join study groups with serious students who are dedicated to their work,” Brown says. “If you’re willing to work, your study partners won’t mind helping you.” In all that you do, give your role as a college student its due. From the outset of your college career, make sure that along with other elements of your life, ranging from work to spending time with friends and family, your studies are always given a high priority.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF CAMPUS RESOURCES RESOURCES.. will help you select programs and individual courses,

counselors will provide advice about career planning or Need help? You’ve got it, as long as you take the initiative. Jessica Dick, a graduate of Northern Essex Community College personal problems. Tutors will focus on helping you master specific academic topics. Staff in a variety of areas are there in Massachusetts, says it’s important to seek out campus to offer advice in everything from how to study effectively to resources designed to help students succeed. improving your writing skills or coping with stress. “Two-year colleges offer many programs to help Along with the people who thrive on helping students students succeed in their education, and it’s very important to take advantage of them,” she says. “The faculty and staff succeed, don’t overlook other available resources. They include the college library, computer labs, math centers or writing at a two-year college know you personally and will help in labs, and other facilities and services that are free to students. any way they can in order for you to succeed.” To identify just what’s offered at any one college, check out the You might be surprised at the wealth of resources catalog or talk with counselors or other staff. available to you. Along with academic advisors who

As a basic part of college life, you’ll need to keep track of the work assigned in each course, not to mention personal commitments or work schedules if you have a part-time job. “To be successful in college you have to be organized,” Dick says. “Students have a lot going on in life and it’s important to manage your time right.” Fortunately, there is no single “right” way to be organized. That means you can develop whatever system works best for you. For example, keep a separate folder or notebook for each course. Or keep extensive notes in computer files. Experiment with electronic calendars (such as the free one offered online by Google) to remind yourself of deadlines. Take a step back from your work and think of ways to manage your time and be as efficient as possible. The more organized you become, the more likely you are to succeed in the classroom. Remember, most college classes will be more challenging than what you’ve experienced in high school. But you can succeed at the next level. By focusing on these four keys and giving your best effort, you will be well on your way to a great college experience.

le s t o S o c ia l M e d ia R u I m a g e. r u o Y d r a u g e f a S as a hu ge it

ER—th in k of ET IS FOR E V te”, no th in g e ve r t ru ly N ER T IN E H T it h a “del e co rd . Ev en w

pu bl ic re tu re si on s, an d fu go e s away. sc ho ol adm is ad gr u ke ep. d yo an ny ge pa an d th e com Co ac he s, co lle u yo on up so ci al e ch ec ki ng Mov in’ O n’s em pl oyers ar on s to fo llo w as re od go e Th e se ar st. be fo re yo u po med ia ru le s

s t ”. e “ P a re n t Te h t e ic bl e t c ra P se d or in tr ou S T E P #1: I be em ba rr as t ill en W nt ”. co st Te or t ge en ua “Par re ad th e la ng Pr ac ti ce th e e th is ph ot o or a po or im ag e! se e s m nt na re ur pa y yo ve if m gi n ca e A ll of th es in th e po st ?

yo u p os f re a d b e fo re o o Pr : 2 # P E su re yo u av oid ST rrec t, so m ak e

d t al ways co us e “t he re” an Sp el lc he ck is no ro rs . Do n’t co nf er al ic at m am sp el lin g an d gr ”. ou r” an d “y ou’re “t he ir ”, an d “y

n ic e . u S T E P #3: B e le or w ri te neg at ive po st s. Yo

ck pe op al ly wor th Do n ot at ta or jo b! Is it re ip sh ar ol h sc co ul d lo se a e co st ! it – co un t th

e a Li nk ed in Li st :: Prep ar ” Do ur o“T ur ca n cre at e yo A dd to Yo ly us e it. Yo u ve ti ac d an l pr of ile of e ss io na d de ve lo p pr ow n br an d an bs . jo re s fo r fu tu re la ti on sh ip

Movin’ On

Get Organized.

Step out of your comfort zone, and sign-up for ONE new activity! Try something different.

the end of the semester, don’t wait until the Even if you get off to a great start, remember to be last week of class to start on it. For an exam successful, you’ll need to maintain a good effort over based on six chapters of a textbook, make sure to the long haul. Since college students have a great deal read all the material to be covered. of freedom, this can be more challenging than it might “Don’t procrastinate,” Breton says. She advises appear on the surface. For example, it’s easy to cut doing homework as soon as you can, turning in papers classes, but that can lead to academic difficulty. early if possible, and studying material when you first “The biggest mistake you can make is not get it so you can become familiar with the content. attending class,” says Elizabeth Breton, a former “If you don’t, there are so many things that could student at Clackamas Community College in hurt you,” she says. “The computer stops working, you Oregon. “So much of what you will be tested on forget your book somewhere, or the printer runs out of and the things you need to learn are actually ink! All of these things can be avoided and stress won’t taught in the classroom, it’s crucial for you to even be present if you take your time and start working attend as many classes as you can.” on things way before the deadlines.” In the same way, it’s important to keep up with special projects and long-term assignments. If a ten-page paper is due at

Lifestyle

Stay Focused.

S P I T

T S E T F OR

! G N I TA K

spend fun things to do than e or m e ar e er th e, ur en it conditions. “S a Tanabe says. “But wh h e,” ug tic ro ac th pr r fo ze ee am br ex : They taking an ed.” e all know the typewhile everyone else is still three hours to take the real thing, you’ll be happy you practic test. They sit there t with their head held high and a comes time y test, ey walk ou W hen preparing for an . ry o sweating. Afterward th e. And, on the fateful day when the grades it rr te e th fac t just in terms of the st 2. Scout ju no – ey ct th e pe us ex ca to Be t confident smile on their ? ha hy w W designed. sure you’ll know rely look at their score. do is scratch make t how the exam will be n bu ca d, are announced, they ba u re yo ve all co d be An d. ill ence di w how well they material that ability and your confid ng ki ta stte know without checking ur yo th you’ll be “You can improve bo “How do they do it?” n and logic of the test to help you sig s de tip e your head and wonder, th re -fi th re wi su ar e ili of m m so e. We have is- by becoming fa rning, Boston Institute ea ns co eL r of fo s or ct ce Well, wonder no mor re an di , ch bb ur Co yo says Allison d mistakes taking and improve a student taking,” e test will help you avoi e th u’r of yo s r ease the stress of test irk he et qu e wh th – ng nt wi vitally importa Finance. “Kno ntage.” tent success. Which is or of Ace the SAT th au rr, O ra m st design to your adva te Ta e As th just e e. rc us d fo rk an wo e w th d tests, it helps to know ing to follo ed go iz is or have entere rd sts da te g an in st r ak fo “T , d r ys Keep in min e to Write, sa points are deducted fo and n no T, sio es AC of e pr th n en Writing Even if You Hat os “O . ch ed ur penalty ucation right into yo how they will be scor his means there is no t.” se “T as s. te you throughout your ed an no be s bb ay Co alw s,” ll er ch wi ke a test well incorrect answ e or two at the end of ea ut in m a ve beyond. Being able to ta lea ld ou sh so you ker . . . for guessing, in the remaining questions on the answer sheet.” ta st te er tt be a e m co ays to be section to fill So let’s look at some w T, She says that on the SA e tic ac pr ke SAT and ACT ta , . ce gh, the opposite is true ver you have the chan ou ne th he W . Preparation Websites e ic ys ct sa ,” ra ap 1. P a negatively scored road trip without a m is a -Some are free and others have fees T on SA rk he ba “T em r ve ne rd tests. “You’d crets of Har va for internet4classrooms.com so you will lose points et into Any College: Se G st, te of or th y, au , wa be r na ila Ta sim a collegeboard.com n , Kelly “I re . efo om er e.c der of SuperColleg incorrect answers. Th kaptest.com/college Students and co-foun d en an s you’ll face.” the key is knowing wh princetonreview.com ers ak m e th by have a map to the test ed id ov pr e tests s.” tic es ac gu pr to w ng ki studyguidezone.com ho ta n ea m This might aration courses, or standardep e pr yz st al te an g n in testprepreview.com ca et u pl Yo m co of the ACT and SAT, k to evoke exam-like or g in ew in m ta ho ob g in by s do st te en wh ized 8 simply timing yourself

IMPROVE YOUR WRITING SKILLS

any students stress out about the writing section of the SAT and ACT. To do your best on standar dized tests and with other academic work, take plenty of time to build up your writing skills.

Tips to Improve Yo

ur W

• Write frequently – get tea riting:

chers and others to read your work and offer tips for improvement. • Take extra writing classes • Read books on writing, or seminars. • Study the work of writers whose work you enjoy . Once you’re in the tes t-taking mode, focus on the basics. “These essays are sc ored by humans, oft en in about a minute,” says Lisa Ja cobson, founder of Ins pirica, a test preparation and tutor ing firm with offices in New York and Boston. “Given that, you must hit your ma rks as a writer. Have a beginning, mi ddle and end. Make sure you have one point of view, an d then support it with specific points.”

practice copies, studyin g books on the subject available in libraries or bookstores, or taking special prep classes. Fo r exams in school, ask your teacher what format to expect. If you’ve taken exams before from the sa me teacher, review old tests when preparing for a ne w one.

in school and to take the classes that will pr epare you for college,” Cobb says. “Work ha rd, pay attention in cla ss, and challenge yourself. On test day, no amount of test pr ep can replace years of academic pr eparation.” The same principle ap plies to other types of tests. Just how you prepare is up to yo u, since different peop le learn best in different ways. But whether it means st udying from notes, re-read ing textbooks, workin g with other students in mem orizing key terms or ta king other approaches, be su re to do the work. The more fully you are prepared , the better your odds of success. After you read your te xtbook, rehearse the in formation you want to learn. Do it the same way an acto r rehearses for a play, a musician rehearses fo r a concert or an athlet e practices for a competition. Then pr actice the informatio n over and over again. 4. Be positive. W hen it comes time to sit dow n and take an exam, tr y to maintain a positive attitude. “Too man y times we progra m ou r minds with negativ e st atements like ‘I am going to bomb this’ or ‘this is going to be a disaster,’ which is co mpletely self-defeating,” says Orr. “T hink posit ively instead — but st ay re alistic. Tr y somet hing alo ng the lines of ‘I will do my best on this exam ’ or ‘I have prepared well for this test and it wi ll show.’ This will have a positive effect on your outlook and on your test score.”

3. Know your st uff. Of course, strategy

Lifestyle

Do n’t sp en d too mu ch tim e be ing “d ist ra cte d” by tec hn olo gy.

only goes so far. “The best preparation for the SA T is to do well

not require the SAT or ACT. Because they have an “open door” admission policy, they will have their own tests to place you in the appropriate level courses. If you have taken the SAT or ACT, they will often use those tests in place of their own if your scores are at a required level.

Q: Do all Colleges require the Q: Do I need to take both the SAT and the ACT? A: With few exceptions, almost every

college in America will accept scores from either test. Two-year colleges do

SAT or ACT (Plus Writing)? A: A comprehensive list of schools that require the essay component of the ACT and /or SAT is available on the College Board website (collegeboard.com).

Q: How can I know which test is better for me to take? A: It’s a good idea to take both tests to see if you score better on one over the other. If your score is better on one, retake that test at a later date and prepare specifically for that test to improve your score.

Q: Should I guess on the test?

A: On the ACT – YES! You are not penalized for guessing so never leave any questions blank. On the SAT – you may guess if you can eliminate two or more of the answers as incorrect. But never randomly guess on the SAT.

Movin’ On

On ’ n i v Mo

4 Qualities That Impress

Be Your Best Self All The Time. Have you heard the expression, “You only get one shot to make a good first impression?” In today’s hyperconnected world, it’s a must to always be on your toes. You don’t know who’s watching on campus, at work and online. Quick question: What’s the difference between a

“If you sit at your desk for the first few days and spend little time interacting with other people in the company, it’ll take longer to figure out how to navigate the office and find answers to questions,” advises Shenan Reed, president of MEC Ideas, a prominent global media agency. “Walk around, eat lunch in the kitchen, and ask people what they do, what they work on, and what gets them excited about being here every day.” What’s true at work is equally valid in college.

professor and a boss? Actually, in terms of your future, there’s very little difference at all. Of course you knew that. And you know success always starts with the person in charge. Yes, while teachers reward hard-working students with good grades and bosses offer salary increases to prize employees, both can help you succeed and reach your life goals. And the same skills and attributes professors want from students are nearly identical to those a boss is looking for and values. 2: Show sincere interest.A genuine So what are some universally applicable ways to impress the interest at school and work in the subject or task at person in charge, regardless of whether your reward is a perfect hand will appeal to instructors and bosses alike. Speaking grade or a sizeable raise? Here are 4 qualities to develop: specifically about college – although, again, this advice holds 1: Make friends.This may seem like an true in all professional cultures – Victoria Atkinson, director of new student programs and retention at Harper College in odd suggestion. What about traditional goals like Palatine, Illinois, says, “College professors dedicate their lives showing up on time and staying alert in class or in a meeting? and spend years of study in their specific area of interest . . . .It’s We’ll get to those shortly but let’s start with an easy goal. probably a good idea for you to acknowledge their expertise Wherever you are and whatever you’re doing, there are likely by demonstrating your respect and interest.” to be lots of other people doing the same thing; each with the This doesn’t mean faking interest in a subject or job you find same hopes and dreams. Get to know these classmates and boring. But if you keep an open mind, every course or career coworkers and soon you’ll have an effective support system.

opportunity should offer something of potential interest. Read. Ask questions. Pick up new facts. Share ideas. In other words, fully engage!

3: Show up on time, do your best, and stay late

if necessary. When students or employees make a real effort, it

shows. And it’s greatly appreciated and, generally, rewarded. There’s no way around it: success takes hard work, diligence, and dedication. But, if you do your best, your teachers and bosses will realize it. And they’ll be more likely to be tolerant of mistakes or willing to provide extra assistance if you need it. The late Peter Drucker, the man some call the “founder of modern management,” once said, “Plans are only good intentions unless they immediately degenerate into hard work.” Like all great quotes, there is a mountain of truth in these few words. You don’t need to be a straight A student or bring in a million-dollar client to make a positive impression. Even if you sometimes struggle in class or at work, professors and bosses will look with favor on your progress as you make improvements and master new skills. In fact, many people in charge find it especially rewarding to see someone who struggles at the beginning continue to work hard, not give up, and make tangible progress. As the great French scientist Louis Pasteur once said, “My strength lies solely in my tenacity.” So remember, whether you are in school or working – whoever is in charge is constantly evaluating you. If you work hard to make a positive impression and show you’re a serious person with a desire to succeed, you’ll soon stand out from those around you.

Lifestyle Reduce your social media presence OR when you post, be REAL!

is in this article e ic v d a e h T rue for especially t s tend to be

college students.

two-year

Here classe

t e more direc typically hav rs . o es ct ti ru si st er univ small and in than at most ts en d u st h work contact wit uality of the ough the q th r other en o ev s, d er n A ams, pap ex in er te ra st t factor, oth you demon ost importan m e th is ts ant. assignmen ally signific can be equ s le ib n make the g n ca ta n in ve opinio ti si o p s een two r’ o A profess erline betw rd o b e th at val you’re ctor’s appro difference if d the instru ee n elpful u h yo ve if also pro n grades or ca It . n o si r help e exten holarship o for a deadlin nce for a sc re fe re a d l. if you nee year schoo on to a fourression p im ve with admissi g a positi in ak m r fo intelligent One tip ms is to ask o o sr such as cl r there is no in smalle have heard ay m it. u ve Yo ie s. el question ut don’t b question, b b t m o u n d e a hav thing as at show you uestions th ct at hand je b su If you ask q e y about th sl u e o ri se t h ad the cours thoug have not re t, ye sure e is rs o e w ak — or, n you m e impressio th — l ia er mat ative one. to be a neg questions true about annoying. The same is downright d n fi ay m , instructors t deadlines ut assignmen o ab d g ai in p sk ’t A haven , shows you e for instance syllabus. Th e rs the cou to n o r’s ti o n ct te ru at the inst ons call on by e ad best questi point m to clarify a rate o ab knowledge el g or u’re studyin t to an ct lu an author yo be re cture. Don’t k in th on a class le to care ns, but take ask questio perceived. e b they will about how

Movin’ On

4: Show steady progress.

ps i T a r f! Ext o r P e for th

verybody loves a Labrador Retriever. Right? They’re big and friendly and cuddly. And cute, too! Would it surprise you to know that if you google Labrador Retrievers you get about 1.6 million entries? No, of course not. Well, would it surprise you that googling “digital healthcare” results in nearly 230 MILLION results? Wait. What?!? Yes, as much as most of us love dogs, the explosion of hi-tech advances in healthcare has produced so much activity among doctors, technologists, researchers, and others that it’s difficult for everyone to keep up with all that’s happening and being developed. And you know what this means? Jobs! Lots of unique, interesting, and high paying jobs.

Here’s just a sampling of recent news items that demonstrate just how rapidly digital healthcare is changing : In the U.S., 500,000 veterans can now simply visit a website and download their health records from a system called the Blue Button. According to the White House, 150 million Americans “have the promise” to use the Blue Button to access their medical data. Google Genomics is collecting and comparing millions of genomes to help further medical research. The company plans to create a cloud-based consortium that will unveil new methods of treating healthcare’s most troubling diseases and cancers. 12

At the 2016 Digital Healthcare Innovation Summit in Boston the agenda, in part, is to explore how technology is transforming the $3 trillion healthcare industry . The scope of revolutionary technologies includes diagnostics and monitoring, wearable devices, telehealth, medical modeling, smart devices, data management, tracking and delivery, and much more. We could go on and on with the latest headlines that confirm the digital healthcare phenomenon, but what about the opportunities for those who will be graduating from college in the next few years? Let’s focus on a few digital job options that fall under three main career fields nearly everyone agrees will transform healthcare solutions.

DIGITAL HEALTHCARE AND BUSINESS If you have an interest in business you might consider becoming a healthcare business analyst. Their job is to increase the profitability and efficiency of medical facilities. They use re-

DIGITAL HEALTHCARE AND TECHNOLOGY For many people, a job that involves making smartphones even smarter would be a dream come true. Mobile healthcare specialists are software application developers who use their technical skills and training to transform medicine. Joseph Hobbs, CIO at Community Hospital in Anderson, Indiana affirms this revolution by noting, “Whether it is a mobile cart, a tablet or a smartphone, you need to give caregivers access at their fingertips.” Perhaps this is why nearly one third of all mobile applications are health related. Today doctors and nurses can provide patients with everything from appointment alerts and medication reminders to immediate medical assistance by monitoring blood pressure, glucose levels, and weight. It’s little wonder that the worldwide market for mobile health applications is estimated to grow to $26 billion by the end of 2017. And, with a median salary range of approximately $98 thousand in 2015, the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects growth for software application developers at 17 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations.

DIGITAL HEALTHCARE AND MEDICINE Bioinformatics specialists apply the fields of biology, statistics, and computer science to design ways to collect and analyze data that is typically used by biotechnology firms seeking new treatments, genes, and proteins. As you can imagine, successful specialists must have a wide variety of skills. However, a foundation in life sciences is essential. “The deeper you understand the biology, the better you do your job in this area,” says W. Jim

Zheng, associate professor in the School of Biomedical Informatics at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Among the areas of specialty for bioinformatics specialists are bioinformatics scientists, who analyze data produced from next generation sequence systems; bioinformatics programmers, who develop analysis tools used in data interpretation; and computational biologists, who further scientific knowledge in genome analysis. Salaries for these types of jobs vary widely but, as part of the medical science field, median annual wages are currently around $82 thousand. So there are a few options for you to consider. Be sure to talk with your school’s career counselor and begin exploring two and four-year schools that will help you launch your educational path. And don’t forget — with 230 million entries there’s a lot of information available to help you successfully pursue this exciting and ever-widening career path.

Solid Healthcare Jobs with a Certificate or Associate Degree CERTIFICATE CAREERS — Programs requiring from 3 months to 18 months of study. • Dental Assistant • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) • Home Health Aide • Licensed Vocational or Practical Nurse (LVN/LPN) • Massage Therapist • Medical Assisting • Nursing Assistant (CNA) • Phlebotomist • Pharmacy Technician

ASSOCIATE DEGREES — Programs requiring 2 years of study. • Cardiovascular Technologist • Dental Hygiene • Diagnostic Medical Sonographer • EMS-Paramedic • Health Information Technologist • Medical Equipment Repairer • Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist • Nuclear Medicine Technologist • Occupational Therapy Assistant • Optician • Physical Therapist Assistant • Radiology Technologist • Registered Nurse • Respiratory Therapist • Surgical Technologist Check with your local two-year college about the programs they offer and those offering advancement possibilities. So, whether you want to work in a doctor’s office, directly with patients in their homes, at an administration facility, or a research institute, the healthcare field has many opportunities for you!

Movin’ On

search, computer software, mathematical models and other technical tools to improve operating costs, cut unnecessary expenses, increase employee performance, and refine data management and services. According to Monster.com, employers look for applicants who have completed a four-year bachelor’s degree program in business administration, information science or healthcare management. The average healthcare business analyst currently earns about $64 thousand per year.

hen you hear the word, “leader,” what comes to mind? If you’re like most people, your immediate thought is the President, Prime Ministers, business executives, and the like. I’d like to offer a different perspective. While most of you will never reach these lofty titles, it doesn’t mean you won’t become a leader. Not at all. Perhaps Donald H. McGannon summed it up best when he said, “Leadership is action, not position.” It’s not our roles, but how we behave in our daily lives through our attitudes, actions, and decisions. By that definition, anyone can be a leader. Anyone. Like you! Even employers agree. Ask any recruiter what employers seek most, and you’ll hear a common theme: leadership and character qualities. Leadership extends beyond our careers, too. It’s also demonstrated within our families, friendships, community service, and recreational and educational pursuits. So, think holistically as you build and apply your leadership skills. As a young adult, your leadership qualities will be put to the test like never before. To give you a head’s up and a head start, here are nine leadership themes to position you well in your career, and in life:

Vision: Great leaders are guided by an inspiring vision, mission, and purpose for life. They don’t simply live for today, but also look ahead when formulating their plans. They set goals in all life arenas, including career, education, family, finances, experiences, and community service. And, when exploring career matches, they carefully consider their skills, interests, and personal preferences.

Intentionality: Great leaders know how to turn their dreams into reality. Living with intentionality means setting goals, developing strategies, evaluating your progress, focusing on priorities, managing time wisely, and working smart. Winners make it happen, they don’t just let it happen.

Positivity: Great leaders surround themselves with positive influences only. That includes the friends they choose, the media they consume, and how they spend their free time. It is said that you become the average of the 3-5 people you spend the most

time with, so choose your friends wisely! Positivity is also an essential ingredient to career success. It’s a must in your interviews and on the job with your colleagues and clients.

out. A better approach is to pursue varied interests, work hard, and build quiet time into your schedule. It’ll keep you fresh, lift your spirits, and reduce your stress.

Other Centeredness:

Self Awareness: Great leaders know who they are and play to their strengths. By taking an inventory of your personal assets, you’ll build optimism about your future and position yourself to soar in your career. The “Mining the Treasure in You” assignment at www. dennistrittin.com/resources can help. Be true to yourself in all your decisions.

Brand: Great leaders, like great companies, build a successful brand. Like the Nike’s, Coca Cola’s, and Apple’s of the world, people represent their values and reputation wherever they go. Successful people guard their brand at all times. Among the most admired personal brand qualities are integrity, respect, reliability, resilience, kindness, courtesy, enthusiasm, gratefulness, motivation, work ethic, and humility. What core values represent your brand?

Great leaders follow the formula, U > Me. It’s easy to get caught up in our own success, but true leaders focus on supporting others even more. In the career arena, employers value teamwork and a leader’s ability to bring out the best in his/her people. It’s no wonder that appreciation is the greatest motivator of all!

Passion: Great leaders display a zest for life. Passion is an infectious leadership quality, and it happens most when we apply our skills to things we care about. Be sure to stretch yourself with new challenges and give everything your best shot, no matter what. And, by all means, let your passion and enthusiasm shine in your job interviews! It’s huge. There is a leader within you. By taking these qualities to heart, you’ll set yourself up for a lifetime of success!

Resilience:

Writer Box: • Dennis J. Trittin is Presi-

Great leaders accept that adversity is part of life. They maintain a positive, fighting spirit by focusing on the other side of the valley and seeking support from trusted people. Throughout your career and life, you will face adversity. Will you consider it a growth opportunity when it’s your turn?

dent, CEO, and author at LifeSmart Publishing, LLC

•

LifeSmart’s acclaimed leadership and soft skills curriculum, What I Wish I Knew at 18, is used extensively in CTE, FCS, at risk, and mentor programs across the nation.

Balance: Great leaders live diverse and productive lives. Many people allow their careers to consume their time and eventually burn

•

Learn more about these, and other leadership-building topics, at www.dennistrittin.com.

A picture may be worth a thousand words, as the saying goes, but this chart reveals that the difference between educational levels is worth hundreds of thousands of dollars over the average lifetime: Unemployment rate in 2015 (Percent)

Median weekly earnings ($)

1.7%

$1,623

Professional degree

1.5%

$1,730

Master’s degree

2.4%

$1,341

Bachelor’s degree

2.8%

$1,137

Associate degree

3.8%

$798

Some college, no degree

5.0%

$738

High school diploma

5.4%

$678

Less than a high school diploma

8.0%

$493

The “take away” here is The More You Learn = The More You Earn! Note: Data are for persons age 25 and over. Earnings are for full-time wage and salary workers. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Population Survey

Movin’ On

Education attained Doctoral degree

1 2

Follow these 3 practical steps to discover the career path for your unique personality, experience and skills.

Career Pathways

Know Yourself Ask yourself – What are your strengths? How do you like to spend

Arts and Communication

Arts, A/V Technology & Communications

your time? What special skills do you have? What type of future lifestyle do you want? Concentrate on your strengths. Be sure to check your perceptions – ask those closest to you some of these same questions about you and compare the answers. To help you, look at the center of page 17 –Movin’ On has a short personality style self-assessment. Check it out!

Business, Management and Technology

Business, Management & Administration Finance Information Technology Marketing, Sales & Service

Match Your Strengths to Career Options Focus on the career options that correspond to your set of natural aptitudes and skills. To help you sort through possible career options, look over the 6 career pathways and 16 corresponding career clusters you see in the right column. Select one or several that spark your interest and imagination.

Explore and Research Your Career Options Research the various careers in the pathway or career cluster you selected. If you are interested in medicine, talk to nurses and doctors – ask them what they like about their job and what they do not like? Do job shadowing and discover what a day in the life of an “electrical engineer” is really like. With your top choices, check the employment predictions and salary range with the U.S. Bureau of Labor. The BOL website has loads of information – even where workers with specific skills will be able to find employment. Because the best paying jobs will require education beyond high school, starting on page 17 Movin’ On has organized the hot careers by the education you will need, the personality types and the career paths. Look these over and see what feels like you! And Remember –

Education is the launching pad for your dreams and a solid investment in your future! 16

Health Services

Health Science

Human Services

Education & Training Government & Public Administration Hospitality & Tourism Human Services Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security Industrial and Engineering Technology

Architecture & Construction Manufacturing Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics Transportation, Distribution & Logistics

Natural Resources/Agriculture

Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources Explore These Web Sites:

Career Overview: www.careeroverview.com America’s Career Infonet: www.acinet.org Bureau of Labor Statistics: www.stats.bls.gov Occupational Outlook Handbook: www.bls.gov/oco Education Planner: www.educationplanner.com

o, how hard are you willing to work to achieve your dreams?

When Mark Cuban, the billionaire star of “Shark Tank” and the owner of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks, was 12 years old he wanted a new pair of tennis shoes. His dad responded that Mark needed to get a job and buy them himself. So what’s a 12 year old to do?!? A friend of Mark’s father told him he had a bunch of garbage bags. He said Mark could buy them for $3 a box and sell them for $6. So Mark went door-to-door and, as he recalled later,

rang the doorbell and said, “’Hi, does your family use garbage bags?’ And who could say no? So that’s where I learned to sell.” Mark’s determination to succeed has made him a worldrenowned success. So how hard are you willing to work to achieve your dreams? The key is to know yourself, understand your options, and press ahead. So let’s look at some of the jobs that may be perfect for you by doing a basic self-profile. Many psychologists and career counselors state there are essentially six types of people: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional.

Quick Personality Quiz: How do you know which one you are? Look at the following descriptions and check the boxes that fit you. Most people fall into more than one group.

REALISTIC

SOCIAL

INVESTIGATIVE

ENTERPRISING

ARTISTIC

CONVENTIONAL

• Likes working with tools or machines • Generally avoids social activities like teaching or preaching • Considers him or herself to be practical and down-to-earth • Likes to study and solve math or science problems • Generally avoids leading, selling, or persuading people to do things • Considers him or herself to be precise, scientific, and intellectual

• Likes to do creative activities including art, drama, music, or creative writing • Generally avoids highly ordered or repetitive activities • Considers him or herself to be expressive, original, and independent

• Likes to do things to help people including teaching, nursing, or social work • Generally avoids working with machines, tools, or animals • Considers him or herself to be helpful, friendly, and trustworthy

• Likes to lead and persuade people and to sell things and ideas • Avoids activities requiring careful observation and scientific thinking • Considers him or herself to be energetic, ambitious, and sociable • Likes to work in a set and orderly way • Generally avoids ambiguous and unstructured activities • Considers him or herself to be orderly and good at following a set plan

Arts and Communication Arts and Communication Business, Management, and Technology Business, Management, and Technology Health Services Health Services

CERTIFICATE

Human Services Human Services Industrial and Engineering Technology Industrial and Engineering Technology Natural Resources and Agriculture Natural Resources and Agriculture

6 career pathways 6 career pathways

degree options degree options

less than CERTIFICATE 2 years less than ASSOCIATE 2 years at least ASSOCIATE 2 years at least 2 years

BACHELOR at least

BACHELOR 4 years at least

GRADUATE 4 years at least

Movin’ On

After taking this mini personality quiz you should have a fairly good idea of the categories which best fit your personality. Check out page 16 and look at the 6 career paths and 16 career clusters that represent the key categories for nearly every job in the United States. On the next few pages you’ll discover a variety of jobs by personality types, career paths, and educational levels. Some you may be drawn to immediately, others may inspire you to explore related choices. The good news is you have great resources at your disposal – including the Internet, your parents, your guidance counselor, your teachers, and the library – to study and evaluate how you’d like to spend the rest of your life. So, turn the page and start your journey to a future of opportunities!

17 GRADUATE 5 years at least

5 years

Not a degree but a credential showing successful completion of a basic, core curriculum in many technical-vocational and other career fields. Usually a certificate is obtainable in less than two years.

WIND TURBINE TECHNICIAN

realistic

Career Pathway: Natural Resources & Agriculture

Wind turbine technicians typically inspect the exterior and physical integrity of large mechanical devices, generally known as wind towers, that convert wind energy into electricity. Their job includes routine maintenance, servicing underground transmissions systems, replacing worn or malfunctioning equipment, and collecting wind turbine data for testing and future analysis. To learn more visit awea.org

Salary Range for Wind Turbine possible

Technicians: The median annual wage of wind turbine technicians was about $51,000 in 2015.

Computer User Support Specialist Dental Assistant Manicurist/Pedicurist Electrician

Career Pathway: Industrial and Engineering Technology

Industrial machinery mechanics maintain and repair factory equipment and other industrial machinery, such as conveying systems, production machinery, and packaging equipment. They use technical manuals, their understanding of industrial equipment, and careful observation to discover and fix the cause of a problem. To learn more visit nam.org Salary Range for Industrial Machinery Mechanics: The median annual wage of industrial

possible

machinery mechanics was about $48,000 in 2015.

ACTOR

artistic

Career Pathway: Arts & Communications

Actors portray characters in theater, film, television, and other performing arts media by interpreting a writerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s script to entertain or inform an audience. In some stage or film productions, actors sing, dance, or play a musical instrument. For some roles, an actor must learn a new skill, such as horseback riding or stage fighting. To learn more visit actorsequity.org

Salary Range for Actors: The

median hourly wage of actors was about $18.80 in 2015.

REALISTIC careers

Audio & Video Equipment Technician

INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY MECHANIC

investigative

possible

ARTISTIC careers

Marketing Assistant Skincare Specialist Hairdresser Auto Body Technician Furniture Builder

INVESTIGATIVE careers

Lighting Technician/Installer Office Assistant Licensed Practical Nurse Library Technician Water Waste Treatment Operator

PHLEBOTOMIST

social

Career Pathway: Health Services

Phlebotomists draw blood for transfusions, research, blood donations, and other vital purposes. They typically explain their work to patients and assist if patients have adverse reactions after their blood is drawn. Because blood samples look alike, phlebotomists identify and label the sample they have drawn and enter it into a database. To learn more visit aspt.org

Salary Range for Phle-

botomists: The median annual wage of phlebotomists was about $31,000 in 2015.

possible

SOCIAL

careers

Music Teacher Aide Insurance Sales Assistant Preschool Aide Telecommunications Installer/Repairer

enterprising

Pest Control Technician

MASSAGE THERAPIST

Career Pathway: Human Services

Massage therapists provide physical relief for those suffering from injuries, stress related pain, and ailments by pressing and manipulating muscles and soft tissues. There are many types of massage including deep tissue, sports, acupressure, and neuromuscular. A massage possible ENTERPRISING careers can last for a few minutes up to a couple of hours depending on a patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pastry Baker needs and condition. To learn more visit abmp.com Property Manager Assistant Salary Range for Massage Therapists: The median annual wage of massage

conventional

Fitness Trainer Heating, A/C & Refrigeration Mechanic Animal Trainer

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

Career Pathway: Business, Management & Technology

Customer service representatives work with customers to resolve complaints, process orders, and provide information. Their specific duties and responsibilities vary by the industry they work in, of course. In addition to interacting with customers, they record the actions they take and, in some cases, refer a particular situation to a supervisor. To learn more visit nationalcsa.com

Salary Range for Customer Service Representatives:

The median annual wage of customer service representatives was about $32,000 in 2015. possible

CONVENTIONAL careers

Public Relations Assistant Medical Assistant Social & Human Service Assistant Diesel Engineer Specialist Veterinarian Assistant

Movinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; On

therapists was about $38,000 in 2015.

The standard degree awarded by community colleges and technical institutes (and by many four-year colleges) for completion of a program totaling 62 or more hours of required and elective courses. The associate degree prepares graduates either for entrance into the work force or for transfer into a four-year bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree program.

realistic

SOUND ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN

Career Pathway: Arts & Communications

Sound engineering technicians set up and operate electrical equipment for television and radio broadcasts and concerts and in public facilities like offices and schools. Their responsibilities include installing and adjusting audio and video gear for volume and sound quality, setting up equipment for events, creating digital formats of recordings for editing, and making repairs to equipment. To learn more visit sbe.org

Salary Range for

Sound Engineering Technicians: The median annual wage of sound engineering technicians was about $53,000 in 2015.

possible

REALISTIC careers

Computer Network Support Specialist Cardiovascular Technologist County Building Inspector Civil Engineer Technician

Environmental Engineering Technician

investigative

GEOLOGICAL AND PETROLEUM TECHNICIAN

Career Pathway: Natural Resources & Agriculture

Geological and petroleum technicians provide support to scientists and engineers engaged in extracting and gathering resources like oil, minerals, and natural gas. Among their responsibilities are installing and maintaining equipment, gathering information used in geological prospecting, preparing samples for analysis, and monitoring drilling activities. Their work is conducted in both the field and the laboratory. To learn more visit americangeosciences.org

possible

INVESTIGATIVE careers

Webmaster

Computer Network Systems Administrator

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Forensic Laboratory Assistant Medical Equipment Repairer

Salary Range for Geological and Petroleum Technicians: The median annual wage of

geological and petroleum technicians was about $56,000 in 2015.

artistic

ADVERTISING, PROMOTIONS, AND MARKETING SPECIALIST

Career Pathway: Business, Management & Technology

Advertising, promotions, and marketing specialists serve different roles to create interest in products or services. Those that focus on advertising typically work at agencies that put together campaigns for clients or for organizations that advertise heavily. Promotions specialist combine advertising with purchasing incentives to increase sales. Marketing specialist estimate the demand and identify potential markets for an organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s products. To learn more visit aaaa.org

Salary Range for Advertis-

ing, Promotions, and Marketing Specialists: The median annual wage of advertising, promotions, and marketing specialist was about $96,000 in 2015.

possible

ARTISTIC careers

Web Developer

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Preschool Teacher 3-D Designer Organic Food Farmer

PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT

social

Career Pathway: Health Services

Physical therapist assistants help patients restore bodily functions, relieve pain, and alleviate physical disabilities caused by injury or illness. Therapists typically develop a treatment plan that includes strength, balance, and endurance exercises; hot and cold compresses to reduce swelling and pain; and deep-tissue massage. PT assistants work under the direction of a Physical Therapist. To learn more visit apta.org

Salary Range for Physical

possible

Therapist Assistants: The median annual wage of physical therapist assistants was about $55,000 in 2015.

careers

Social Media Assistant

Market Research Assistant Funeral Service Manager Occupational Health & Safety Technician Environmental Science & Protection Technician

SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC INSTALLER

enterprising

Career Pathway: Industrial and Engineering Technology

Solar photovoltaic (PV) installers assemble, install, and maintain solar panel systems on roofs or other structures so sunlight can be transformed into electricity. PV installers use a variety of hand and power tools to connect photovoltaic panels. They also activate and test PV systems to verify their performance. To learn more visit irecusa.org

SOCIAL

Salary Range for Solar Photovoltaic Installers: The median annual wage of solar photo-

possible

ENTERPRISING careers

Choreographer Financial Sales Assistant Optician Chef Agricultural & Food Science Technician

voltaic installers was about $38,000 in 2015.

PARALEGAL

conventional

Career Pathway: Human Services

Paralegals, or legal assistants, help attorneys by preparing necessary paperwork for trials, corporate meetings, and hearings; researching the facts of a particular case; and helping draft contracts and other legal documents. While they cannot practice law or give legal advice, they provide valuable support services to attorneys and law firms. To learn more visit nala.org Salary Range for

wage of paralegals was about $49,000 in 2015.

possible

CONVENTIONAL careers

Community Relations Specialist

Office Information Technology Specialist

Dental Hygienist Construction Manager Veterinary Technologist

Movinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; On

Paralegals : The median annual

A four-year degree earned by completing 128 or more semester hours of required and elective courses. The bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree prepares graduates for entrance into the work force or for progression toward a higher degree.

realistic

MEDICAL AND CLINICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGIST Career Pathway: Health Services

Medical and clinical laboratory technologists, also known as medical laboratory scientists, collect samples and perform complex tests to analyze body fluids and tissues that physicians and other healthcare professionals need to perform their jobs. Technologists also prepare specimens and perform detailed manual tests. They typically oversee the work of medical laboratory technicians. possible REALISTIC careers To learn more visit ascls.org

Multimedia Artist & Animator Computer Hardware Developer Medical Health Services Manager Cartographer Environmental Scientist

Salary Range for

Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists: The median annual wage of medical and clinical laboratory technologists was about $60,000 in 2015.

investigative

FORENSIC SCIENCE TECHNICIAN Career Pathway: Human Services

Forensic science technicians work with criminal investigators to collect and analyze evidence, either at a crime scene or through laboratory analysis. Their work includes looking at possible links between suspects and criminal activity, consulting with experts in specialized fields like toxicology (poisons) and odontology (teeth), reconstructing possible INVESTIGATIVE careers crime scenes, and writing detailed reports. To learn more visit aafs.org

Technical Writer Computer Systems Analyst Dietitian Biomedical Engineer Conservation Scientist

Salary Range for Forensic Science Technicians: The median annual wage of forensic

science technicians was about $56,000 in 2015.

artistic

FILM AND VIDEO EDITOR

Career Pathway: Arts & Communications

Film and video editors produce media that entertain or inform an audience. They generally work alongside directors to create a film, documentary, sporting event, or other interesting production. Their work includes organizing digital footage with editing software, selecting the right equipment, and shooting or editing a scene based on the directorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision. To learn more visit editorsguild.com

Salary Range for Film and

Video Editors: The median annual wage of film and video editors was about $49,000 in 2015.

possible

ARTISTIC careers

Convention/Event Planner Medical Illustrator Resort Manager Architect Landscape Architect

PERSONAL FINANCIAL ADVISOR

social

Career Pathway: Business, Management & Technology

Personal financial advisors apply their understanding of tax laws, insurance, and investments to help clients make decisions about their money. These short- and long-term decisions include retirement and estate planning, funding a child’s education, and various investing options. An advisor’s income is largely earned through commissions from selling financial products like securities and life insurance policies. To learn more visit napfa.org

Salary Range for Personal

Financial Advisors: The median annual wage of personal financial advisors was about $89,000 in 2015.

enterprising

possible

SOCIAL

careers

Fundraising Manager Health Educator

Behavioral Disorder Counselor Computer Software Engineer Geoscientist

OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYST

Career Pathway: Industrial and Engineering Technology

Operations research analysts help solve a company’s business related problems using mathematical modeling methods that give them a planning perspective on available courses of action, which saves time and money. Examples include knowing the number of parts needed by an automobile manufacturer over a period of time and finalizing the most practical travel schedules for a sports team. To learn more visit informs.org

Salary Range for Operations

Research Analysts: The median annual wage of operations research

Interpreter

analysts was about $78,000 in 2015.

Computer Information Systems Manager

Athletic Trainers Recreational Therapist Petroleum Engineer

ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER

Career Pathway: Natural Resources & Agriculture

Environmental engineers use mathematical and scientific principles – including those from engineering, biology, and chemistry – to develop solutions to environmental problems like recycling, waste disposal, and control of water and air pollution. They also deal with difficult global issues, like safe drinking water; design complex treatment systems, like industrial wastewater treatment plants; and research the environmental impact of construction projects. To learn more visit aaees.org Salary Range for Environmental Engineers: The median annual wage of environmental

engineers was about $84,000 in 2015.

ENTERPRISING careers

possible

CONVENTIONAL careers

Corporate Communications Director

Information Security Analyst Registered Nurse Mental Health Social Worker Actuary

Movin’ On

conventional

possible

A master’s degree is usually earned by an additional two years (36 or more semester hours) of study beyond a bachelor’s degree. A postgraduate degree above the master’s typically requires an additional two years (60 or more semester hours) of study. Some professional degrees include the M.D. (doctor of medicine), D.D. (doctor of divinity), D.D.S. (doctor of dentistry), and J.D. (doctor of jurisprudence).

realistic

FINANCIAL ANALYST

Career Pathway: Business, Management & Technology

Financial analysts help businesses and individuals make wise money decisions by assessing the performance of stocks, bonds, and other types of investments. Most work in banks, securities firms, insurance companies, and other similar businesses. Their work includes studying economic and business trends – generally for a specific industry or region of the country. To learn more visit cfainstitute.org

Salary Range for Financial

Analysts: The median annual wage of financial analysts was about $80,000 in 2015.

investigative

possible

REALISTIC careers

Audiologist Optometrist Engineering Professor Chief Civil Engineer Astronomer

MATHEMATICIAN

Career Pathway: Industrial and Engineering Technology

Mathematicians conduct research to better understand mathematical principles. Applied mathematicians use theories and techniques, such as mathematical modeling, to solve problems for practical uses. Theoretical mathematicians conduct research to identify unexplained issues in mathematics. They are primarily concerned with exploring new areas and relationships of mathematical theories. To learn more visit ams.org

Salary Range for Mathemati-

cians: The median annual wage of mathematicians was about $111,000 in 2015.

artistic

possible

INVESTIGATIVE careers

Art Researcher Market Research Analyst Physicians Assistant Genetic Counselor Chief Environmental Scientist

URBAN AND REGIONAL PLANNER

Career Pathway: Natural Resources & Agriculture

Urban and regional planners develop land usage programs that help create communities, accommodate population growth, and revitalize physical facilities in populated areas. Among their responsibilities are developing long and short term plans for proposed schools, hospitals, and other needed facilities. Prior to meeting with government officials and developers, they analyze various studies to address every possible issue and concern. possible ARTISTIC careers To learn more visit planning.org

Salary Range for Urban and Regional Planners: The median annual wage of urban and

regional planners was about $68,000 in 2015.

Art Conservator Corporate Marketing Executive Occupational Therapist Music Professor Industrial Design Director

social

NURSE ANESTHETIST

Career Pathway: Health Services

Nurse anesthetists (or CRNAs) provide anesthesia and related care before, during, and after surgical and diagnostic procedures. They give patients general anesthesia so they’ll go to sleep or administer a local anesthesia to numb an area of the body. They remain with the patient throughout a procedure to monitor vital signs. They also provide pain management services. To learn more visit aana.com.

Salary Range for Nurse

Anesthetists: The median annual wage of nurse anesthetists was about $104,000 in 2015.

enterprising

possible

SOCIAL

careers

Speech Professor College Administrator Law Professor Industrial Organizational Psychologist

Chemistry Professor

CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

Career Pathway: Human Services

Clinical psychologists comprise the largest segment of the mental health field. While they work in a variety of settings including counseling centers and hospitals, all help mentally, physically, and emotionally ill patients deal with life circumstances. In addition to working with individuals, many clinical psychologists provide counseling services to families. Others teach at universities and medical schools. To learn possible ENTERPRISING careers more visit apa.org Museum Curator Salary Range for Clinical Psychologists: The median annual wage of clinical

psychologists was about $72,000 in 2015.

conventional

Economist Physical Therapist Computer Research Scientist Atmospheric Scientist

SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST Career Pathway: Arts & Communications

Speech-language pathologists help people overcome difficulties communicating verbally due to such factors as disease, injury, stroke, or a developmental disorder. They generally create individualized treatment plans that meet a patient’s specific needs like helping them make sounds and improve their voices. They also work with patients who have swallowing issues to develop and strengthen their muscles. To learn more visit asha.org

Salary Range for Speech-

Language Pathologists: The median annual wage of speech-language pathologists was about $73,000 in 2015.

possible

CONVENTIONAL careers

Survey Researcher Nurse Midwife Marriage & Family Therapist Statistician Veterinarian

Movin’ On

Specific career information derived and gathered from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

If you decide to attend a local two-year college, does that mean you’re limiting your options? No way! True, community college life generally involves staying close to home. But you can always use this experience as a starting point that could lead you anywhere in the world! “Community college is a great place to begin,” says Deanna Brown, a graduate of Coconino Community College in Arizona. “Lower tuition means you can complete the basic foundation for a degree at much lower cost. You can begin working in your new profession and then go on to complete a more advanced degree if you wish.” In fact, it’s no exaggeration to say if you get a good start in a two-year college, a whole world of potential awaits you. A community college education could lead you to studies at a university ten states away. Or a job with a company that sends you to China or India or France, or who knows where. Or even outer space. Sound far-fetched? Tell that to Robert Gibson, Eileen Walker and Francis Scobee, community college alumni who have flown on the space shuttle. Or to others who have served as governors or members of Congress or executives in international corporations, all who got their start at a two-year college. The truth is, community, junior and technical colleges do exist to serve their local areas. But the people who attend them can take what they learn and go anywhere in the world. No matter what your goals, a twoyear college can be a great starting point.

Community colleges come in all sizes. Some are larger than the biggest universities in their states. Others are mid-sized. Still others are quite small. But regardless of their size, every two-year college has much to offer. Academic offerings vary from one school to another, but even in smaller schools, the choices can be impressive. Some programs are designed to prepare the way for transferring to a four-year college. They include the general courses required to earn a bachelor’s degree, meaning once students who complete them move on to a four-year program,

they can concentrate on courses more directly related to their major. Other programs focus on career preparation. Instead of preparing students to pursue a higher degree, the emphasis is on building skills related to the world of work. This might involve studying a field such as accounting, electronics technology, nursing, or law enforcement. Here are just a few examples of the possibilities – is one your story?

One of the most appealing features of two-year colleges is their affordability. According to the American Association of Community Colleges, tuition and fees at public two-year colleges average about $3,430. a year. This compares to more than $9,410 at public four-year schools, and is a fraction of

ost students in two-year colleges commute to and from school rather than living in dormitories. As a result, many take a pass on student activities, opting to leave campus as soon as the last class of the day is finished. But that can be big a mistake. Getting involved in student activities can help you develop key skills, build your resume or lead to new friendships. Every college offers activities to supplement students’ classroom experience.

Here ARE SOME examples: Sports - intercollegiate, intramural, club Student Government Student Newspaper/Webzine Theatre Clubs focused on major area of study (Robotics Club, Poetry Society, etc.) The possibilities vary from one school to another, but every college offers plenty of choices. “Get involved,” says Terah Zaremba, dean of student services and student life at Kellogg Community College in Michigan. “Many people make lifelong friends in college. And they perform better in college classes when they are involved.” Even if you’re not a joiner, don’t overlook other activities. Take advantage of guest speakers, concerts, performers or other opportunities offered to students. Certainly time spent in the classroom is of prime importance, but out-of-class activities can provide some of your most unforgettable college experiences.

Movin’ On

• You’ve been accepted at a university in another part of your state, then you realize you’d rather stay at home for another couple of years. So you keep your part-time job, enroll at your local community college, and sign up for transfer courses. • You could have done better in high school, but have to admit now you didn’t spend enough time on your studies. So you decide to attend a two-year college, work hard on academics, and build a track record that can lead you to a four-year degree later. • You’ve always been interested in healthcare. When you learn about all the health-related programs offered by a two-year school only a few miles from your home, your college choice is obvious. • You’re not sure just what kind of career you would like to pursue, or what subjects you would most enjoy studying. But you know going to college makes sense. Rather than investing huge amounts of money for tuition at an expensive school, you decide to take the community college route, and then go from there. “I found starting at a community college was a blessing,” says Christine Kirchner, a graduate of Cerritos Community College in Norwalk, California. “I was able to grow into the life of a college student, while still being able to work part-time while attending school full-time.”

the cost of private schools, which often top $32,000 or more per year. Whether you plan to enter the workforce after a year or two or transfer to a four-year school, the savings over time may be huge. Do the math, and the amount of money saved can be impressive. At the same time, affordable tuition is only part of the story. At least as important is the quality of your educational experience. With classes that tend to be smaller than those in universities, plenty of individual attention and a wealth of support services to help you succeed, the two-year college has much to offer. In fact when it comes to good teaching, it’s hard to beat the community college environment. Take a close look at the faculty, and you’ll find people who take pride in outstanding teaching. Talk to students and graduates of two-year colleges, and you’ll hear of teachers who bring their subjects to life while considering the needs of individual students. “I really like the one-on-one attention you can get with your professors,” says Elizabeth Breton, a former student at Clackamas Community College in Oregon. “When I felt I was falling behind in my math class, I scheduled an appointment with my professor. She was totally accessible and was willing to stay extra hours to help me out and make sure I succeeded in the class.” Elizabeth’s story is not an unusual one. For students in two-year colleges across the country,

learning is an exciting experience shared with students from all kinds of backgrounds, guided by instructors who care. Remember, most college classes will be more challenging than what you’ve experienced in high school. But you can succeed at the next level. By focusing on your goals and giving your best effort, you will be well on your way to a great college experience!

• There are more than 1100 two-year colleges in the U.S., enrolling more than 7 million students in credit classes. • Nearly half (45 percent) of all undergraduate students in American colleges and universities attend two-year schools. • About 62% of students enrolled on a full-time basis in two-year colleges also work either full-time or part-time. • While the vast majority of community college students are commuters, oncampus housing is available at nearly 300 two-year colleges. • Over one in two community college students (58%) receives some type of financial aid. * Source: American Association of Community Colleges

rise in recent years. Two-year colleges have been on the accept all students who can le still assume because two-year colleges

But some peop less expensive, the courses they offer are benefit from attending, or because they are easier than those at other types of colleges. rams and courses you’ll find at a But that’s just a myth. The truth? The prog g academic experience. engin community college actually provide a chall itely on a par with those at four-year defin “The academics at a two-year college are use community college graduate. “Just beca schools,” says Jessica Dick, a Massachusetts es class mean your classes are any easier. My you attend a two-year college, it doesn’t ds who chose to attend a four-year school.” were just as challenging as those of my frien

n recent years, more and more students with outstanding high school records have chosen to attend a community college. To enrich the experiences of highly motivated students, some schools offer honors programs. These may include special courses, the opportunity to work with faculty in completing research projects, travel options, honors seminars or other activities. “An honors program is great for those who want to leave college with more than just a diploma,” says Matthew Wells, a former student at Cape Fear Community College in North Carolina. “It can be ideal for students who want to develop skills that will benefit them not only in their career, but in every aspect of their future.” Check with your local two-year college if an honors program is offered.

If you plan to transfer to a four-year school after studying at a two-year college, follow these steps for a successful transfer. Choose courses carefully. Some courses are designed purely for workplace skills or other purposes, and they will not be accepted toward a bachelor’s degree. Make sure every course you take fits the transfer mode. Work with a counselor or academic advisor.

These professionals know the ropes when it comes to the transfer process. You will definitely benefit from their advice. Obtain a transfer guide. Many schools offer special guides detailing transfer requirements, often focusing on a given college or university where students commonly transfer. Be sure to obtain such information and review it carefully. If a guide is not

Why should you consider an honors program? Just some of the possibilities include:

• Enhancing your college experience with challenges that strengthen your academic background while stretching your imagination. • Meeting and interacting with outstanding, highly motivated students who share common interests. • Spending valuable out-of-class time with professors or other college staff. • Taking advantage of honors participation to bridge to other activities such as travel or internships. • Gaining a competitive advantage by listing honors activities on applications for admission to four-year schools, scholarship applications or other application materials.

available for the four-year college in which you’re interested, consult a copy of the school’s catalog and study the degree requirements and transfer policies.

Keep your grades up. Most schools will not

accept credits with a grade lower than “C” or the equivalent. Good grades can also be important in gaining admission to a college or a particular program, not to mention qualifying for scholarships or other opportunities. If transferring is your goal, earn a solid G.P.A!

Movin’ On

How can I pay for college? That is the “really big” question most prospective students ask. So, before starting college, you’ll want to develop a plan for covering tuition and related expenses. This should include applying for student aid and considering other sources of funds. “It’s important to pursue financial aid no matter what type of college you plan to attend,” says Kim Stezala, author of Scholarships 101: The Real-World Guide to Getting Cash for College. “If you don’t, you could be missing out on valuable resources to offset the cost of college.”

Government Aid

The U.S. government offers a number of student aid programs. To qualify for most of them, you don’t need outstanding grades or other special accomplishments. Instead, they are based on your family’s finances. In general, the greater the need, the more assistance you can expect. The most attractive awards are grants. These include the widely popular Pell grants which, like other grants, need not be repaid. So if you qualify, they actually represent free money. Student loans are also available. Although they must be repaid, interest rates are lower than with most consumer loans. Alternatives include loans that are taken out by parents and others that are made directly to the student. Some loans are not based on income, so anyone can qualify. Work-study awards provide another option, allowing you to earn money by working part-time at the college or an affili-

ated organization. Many students receive work-study awards along with grants or loans. The key to obtaining Federal aid is to completing a special application, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Often known simply as the FAFSA, it is available online at www.fafsa. ed.gov. In applying, you’ll need to provide detailed information about your family’s finances. This effort can pay off many times over, so don’t be put off by the application process. State-based programs also provide various types of aid. To find out more, check with your state’s higher education agency or the financial aid office at a local two-year college.

Applying for Scholarships Whether or not you qualify for Federal aid, be sure to apply for scholarships. You might be surprised at how many opportunities are available to students who take the initiative to fill out applications. Every two-year college offers scholarships to students who show academic potential or other qualities. In addition, a wide range of organizations sponsor scholarships that can be used at any college, including the two-year school of your choice. “It’s always smart to pursue scholarships even with the low cost of a two-year college,” says Brandy Barbera, a graduate of

Financial Aid Help on the Web

The U.S. Department of Education offers a wealth of information about funding for college at its website (studentaid.ed.gov). Along with access to the necessary forms, you’ll find publications including “Funding Education Beyond High School: The Guide to Federal Student Aid.” This detailed guide features over 50 pages about the various Federal aid programs and how to apply for them. Also, the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (www.nasfaa.org) provides a free publication, “Cash for College,” as well as tips on getting scholarships, mistakes to avoid in applying for aid, and other helpful info. Other sites to check out: finaid.org, fastweb.com, studentaid.ed.gov, collegeexpress.com, scholarships.com, Scholarshipmonkey.com, fafsa.ed.gov

Exploring Options Along with student aid, don’t overlook other options. For example, earnings from part-time jobs, summer employment or other work can help in meeting college expenses. More than half of all two-year college students hold down jobs while in school, so if you choose this option, you’ll be far from alone. In working, it’s important to strike a balance between work and studies. Make sure your academic pursuits don’t suffer from working too many hours. And once you begin earning wages, the best plan is to set up a structured savings program so a specified portion of the money you earn can be applied to college costs rather than spending it on snacks. An approach available at some colleges is paying tuition in installments. If you can’t come up with the full amount needed at the start of the academic year, this might be an alternative worth considering. Check with the school’s business office to determine if installments are a possibility. Don’t overlook earning college credits before college by taking Advanced Placement (AP) courses or participating in dual enrollment programs while still in high school. You will save money and time in the process. In some cases, you can earn

Good Books for Financial Advice Paying for College Without Going Broke-Princeton Review The Financial Aid Handbook-Stack and Vedvik How You Can Maximize Student Aid-T. Foote The Ultimate Scholarship Book-G. Tanabe Confessions of a Scholarship Winner-Ellis

3 Tips to Cut Tuition

Costs

Check out these basic cost-saving tips to avoid wasting time and money in college. 1. Select courses carefully with college advisor and catalogue each term. Make sure it is the correct course and sequence for your degree program. 2. Do not drop courses too readily and fail to complete enough credits each term. 3. Consider taking online classes — saving trips to campus and providing more flexibility for work. Keep in mind — these courses demand discipline and writing skills!

college credits by taking an exam on the course material instead of taking the course. This is via the CLEP (College-Level Examination Programs) course test or the college’s internally administered exam. Ask your college about both of these options. A more extreme option is entering the military to take advantage of its educational support programs. Or if all else fails, instead of enrolling for the four or more courses typically needed for a full-time load, you might take only one or two. This approach has its disadvantages (including making you ineligible for many aid programs), but it can allow you to get started in your college career rather than deferring it entirely. “The whole process can be very confusing, especially if you are among the first in your family to attend college,” says Stezala. “If you don’t understand something, ask financial aid advisors or guidance counselors to explain it more thoroughly. You don’t want to lose out on possible funds because you were afraid to ask a question.” Also, don’t assume this process concludes once you begin college. Continue to research and fill out scholarship applications once you’re in school because you will find additional funds for students past the freshmen year. They may be in a specific field of study, for a grade point average, or for other unique qualifications. Remember to apply, apply, apply!

To Borrow or not to Borrow

Is it a smart idea to take out student loans? Some people advise against

loans. But others regard borrowing as an investment in your future. Perhaps the best approach is to pursue other avenues first, and apply for loans only if absolutely necessary.

Movin’ On

Northampton Community College who went on to study at DeSales University. “If you can cut the cost of a two-year college, it allows you to get a head start at saving for the four-year college.” The same logic applies for students who do not plan on transferring. Any scholarship, even if it’s a relatively small one, will help offset tuition and other costs. While many scholarships require outstanding grades or other academic accomplishments, others do not. Some are based on need. Others reward community involvement. Still others consider church membership, a parent’s employment, your family’s ancestry, or any of a number of other factors. To find out about scholarships for which you might be eligible, check with the financial aid office at the college in which you’re interested. High school counselors may also have info about a variety of scholarships, some of which may be restricted to students attending your school. Also check out directories available in bookstores and libraries, and scholarship websites such as FastWeb (www.fastweb.org).

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College P.O. Box 609 Perkinston, MS 39573

CONNECT WITH US

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College has so much to offer! Enrolling at MGCCC can be the beginning to anywhere you want to go in life. So, the sooner you start, the further you’ll go! MGCCC offers: • Excellent Academic Instruction! • Career & Technical Training! • Exciting Student Life! • Low Tuition and Fees! •O nline, Hybrid, Short-term and Weekend Courses! • And More!

Email recruiting@mgccc.edu or call 601.928.6384