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Cultivating Student Resilience: The Power of Group Work

Cultivating Student Resilience: The Power of Group Work

When you study social work at any level, you’ll have a lot of theory to learn. You’ll need to attend a lot of classes and, in due course, you’ll go on to a placement or start bringing your new learning into your practice. Bridging the gap between classroom and practice is group work. Group work helps to give you the grounding you need to prepare for a range of interactions, which makes it a foundational part of most social work courses. Whether you take the traditional on-campus approach or study online, it’s a process which deserves a lot of attention and commitment. Below, we discuss what you can look forward to and how to make the most of it.

Practicing conversation skills

The single most important element in all social work practice is the ability to hold useful conversations. This underlies every assessment, negotiation and departmental interaction. As you train, you will need to build on your active listening skills, develop your persuasive abilities and learn how to convey sympathy as well as authority through your speech and body language. This is not a context in which theory can ever be sufficient. What you need more than anything is practice, and group work enables you to get that.

Whether your focus at the time is on working with colleagues or with clients, a great deal of what you will do as a social worker hinges on good teamwork. Working on joint projects with others during your studies lets you develop this too. You’ll become a better communicator at the same time as learning why that matters in a variety of situations. You’ll learn how to build trusting relationships with colleagues and how to recognize and correctly anticipate what others need from you. Most importantly, you’ll get better at listening, remembering and drawing out the most pertinent information from any exchange.

Preparing for discussions with other professionals

When first imagining what it might be like to be a social worker, most students tend to focus on one-to-one work with clients, but in practice social workers need to be able to connect with all kinds of different professionals. You will work with people in the education system, the justice system and healthcare, all with different priorities, methodologies and agendas. In group work, where everybody comes from a different background, you will be able to get a taste of how to adapt to this. Many people enter social work from different sectors and they can help you gain a deeper understanding of how those sectors work, in addition to providing useful connections.

Networking is valuable in social work just as it is in other sectors, and you never know where the contacts you make during your studies will end up. When you have a busy schedule and clients with urgent needs, it really helps to know who to speak to by name, or to be able to reference a mutual friend in order to speed things along. You’ll also know where to go for advice when you need to deal with something outside your experience.

Preparing for family discussions and community work

Even in situations where you are working with clients, group experience is very helpful, because there is often more than one person in the room. You might be tasked with working with an extended family as a unit, or with just one family member, but even in the latter case, other people often step in to share their views. Knowing how to manage situations like this is vital to making progress and preventing situations from descending into chaos — no matter how well-intentioned. By working in groups, you will improve your ability to maintain control of conversations and steer them in the desired direction, even when you and the person you are talking to are surrounded by potential distractions.

Role playing client interactions with your fellow students lets you explore different scenarios and consider the variety of contexts in which you may find yourself working. It will build up your confidence when it comes to working in dynamic environments, and you can draw on the experiences of group members to reflect on different types of family and community environments. Listening to the experiences of others will make you more aware of the wide range of life experiences, and less vulnerable to making mistakes by projecting rather than truly listening.

Recognizing when you’re going too far

When you’re first starting out as a social worker, it’s easy to get excited about particular approaches and push too hard. You can also get overwhelmed by difficult cases or highly emotional clients, and find it hard to maintain a balanced, neutral approach. Using group work as an opportunity to practice means that your peers are able to observe your approach and let you know when they see a problem developing.

When you are the one doing the observation, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from other students’ mistakes. Sometimes it’s easier to realize what you’re doing wrong yourself by observing it in other people’s behavior. You’ll also pick up on things they do well which you can draw on in your own work. When you role play as the client, you’ll be able to explore different techniques from the other side, helping you to emphasize with clients’ experiences of the process and develop a better idea of which methods are likely to be best suited to various individuals. 

Negotiating disagreements

No matter how well your groups work together, there will be times when disagreements arise. This is a good thing because it gives you the chance to improve your negotiation skills, which will be vital in the field. You will learn to tease out the reasons why other people see things differently and interact with them in a way which is respectful and sympathetic, increasing your chances of changing their minds. You will also learn to be flexible and open in how you think about their arguments, increasing the chances of them changing yours. You will stop feeling uncomfortable about the prospect of giving way, recognizing that getting it right is more important than looking clever.

Sometimes finding a way to agree seems impossible and it’s important to respect that too. In situations like this, you can lay down some ground rules around respect, and then talk with a view to finding other areas in which you do agree, identifying possible workarounds where you can’t and focusing on productive discussion rather than on who wins or loses.

Improving cultural competence

One factor which has a major influence on perspective, and on other aspects of how we engage in conversation, interpret what others have to say and organize our priorities, is cultural background. If you are a majority White American who mostly interacts with other people from similar backgrounds, this may not be immediately obvious to you, because you’ll have been able to get through most of your life just fine on the assumption that everybody operates within the same cultural framework as you. However, if you are a member of a smaller cultural group, you will already have had to learn how to adapt to deal with people from different backgrounds, whether consciously or unconsciously. This is called cultural competence.

When you are out in the field as a social worker, you will often be called upon to work with clients whose cultural backgrounds differ from your own. While everything begins with respect, you will need to make an active effort to understand them fully and anticipate their needs. Working in multicultural groups during your studies will help you to improve your cultural competence. Pay close attention to differences in expectations, ask questions and make sure that you really listen.

Different approaches to learning

Practically every student encounters moments where it just feels impossible to understand what’s being taught in class, while other students seem to find it easy. People connect with learning in different ways due to differences in personality and past experiences. The great thing about group work is that by bringing students together, it provides an opportunity for them to help each other. When your peers explain how they understand the subject, they’ll do so in different ways, giving you new opportunities to connect with it.

In situations where you’re the one doing the helping, you’ll get another kind of learning experience. Understanding how other people struggle will help you to broaden your ways of thinking. It also provides valuable practice for your future work with clients and fellow professionals who might need you to rephrase things or come at them from different angles to understand them. In addition, this kind of peer-to-peer learning experience helps to build empathy. 

Mutual emotional support

Even when you have great skills and you’re really at the top of your game, there’s no denying that social work can be emotionally exhausting. You will learn to set boundaries and manage your emotions, but there will still be times when the situations you are dealing with get to you. There will even be times when you are simply fatigued due to an intense workload. When this happens, it’s important to reach out for help. Your fellow professionals will understand and will be there to support you. They will also be able to recognize when a problem runs deeper and you are in need of time off or professional therapy.

Working closely in groups over the duration of your studies will help you to develop good instincts for when you need support, and for when other people do. This will help you to develop and contribute to effective support networks in your future working life. It’s an approach which is at its most effective when you’re under pressure because that’s when, with others’ help, you can get a clearer idea of what your personal vulnerabilities are, what warning signs you can look out for and what type of support is most beneficial for you.

In person and online group work

Group work doesn’t have to take place in person in order to be effective. Increasingly, social workers interact with clients and colleagues online, especially where there are health risks involved or when they are required to operate over large geographical areas, so it’s useful to know how to function in both worlds. Florida State University College of Social Work offers programs online with a specific view to helping social workers adapt to new approaches and systems, as well as preparing them for leadership roles, and group work is an important part of its program. The Florida State University Online Master of Social Work degree ensures that students are able to practice clinical social work meaning they can learn how to communicate through group activities and individual learning. Students can also  work through clinical social work practices to ensure they are prepared with the best interpersonal interview practices.

Working in online groups requires slightly different skills. When only your face is visible, you’ll need to use expressions a lot more in order to communicate effectively. If all your group work is online, it’s a good idea to position your camera in different ways during different meetings so that you can still practice using body language. Many people find that they become more anxious about silences during online conversations, but this is a good thing, because learning how to deal with silences is an important part of developing your interviewing skills and encouraging clients to tell you things which they may be hesitant about.

Taking the next steps

Whether online or in-person, group work teaches you skills that you simply can’t learn in classes. Social work is all about people and you need to spend time focused on people to get to the heart of it. Role playing, sharing ideas and developing projects together will prepare you for going into the field, and your different backgrounds and experiences will help you to acquire a depth of understanding which goes beyond theory alone. You’ll improve your interviewing and negotiating skills, develop the confidence you need for successful advocacy and improve your cultural competence, all while building your network. You’ll also discover one of the best things about the profession — the way that social workers can support each other.

SEE ALSO: Five Strategies to Turn College Creativity into Digital Assets

Television Academy Foundation Announces Nominees for 43rd College Television Awards

Television Academy Foundation Announces Nominees for 43rd College Television Awards

The Television Academy Foundation have announced nominees for the 43rd College Television Awards, which recognizes and rewards excellence in student-produced programs from colleges nationwide and revealed the recipient of the $10,000 Loreen Arbus Focus on Disability Scholarship.
The College Television Awards ceremony will be held Saturday, April 13, 2024, at the Television Academy’s North Hollywood campus. Student nominees will also participate in two days of professional development discussions and networking opportunities with media and industry leaders to support career advancement.
Twenty-one student-produced programs are nominated from 181 entries submitted by 37 colleges and universities. Designed to emulate the Emmy® Awards, student entries are judged by Television Academy members; three projects are nominated in each of the seven categories. Criteria for the College Television Awards reflects industry standards of excellence, imagination and innovation. Each winning project will receive a $3,000 cash prize.
Congratulations to the 2024 nominees whose outstanding student productions have been recognized by the Television Academy Foundation,” said Jodi Delaney, executive director of the Television Academy Foundation. “We’re thrilled to present their exceptional work to Hollywood’s entertainment community through this awards program, giving students career exposure.”

Full List of Nominees:

ANIMATION SERIES:
Strings Attached – Ringling College of Art and Design
Ria Shinde, Director/Producer/Writer
The Sun Is Bad – Savannah College of Art and Design
Rachel Mow, Director/Writer
Ivan Chui, Producer
The Witch’s Cat – Brigham Young University
Jessica Fink Blaine, Producer
Abby Staker, Director/Writer
COMEDY SERIES:
Fishmonger – American Film Institute
Neil Ferron, Director/Writer
Jordan Willcox, Producer
Alexandra Dennis-Renner, Writer
Slobopoly – Chapman University
Jennifer Baker, Producer/Writer
Yinghui Li, Director
We Met At Camp – American Film Institute
MC Plaschke, Director/Writer
Alexander Heller, Producer/Writer
Abbey Letizia, Producer/Writer
COMMERCIAL, PSA OR PROMO:
Alzheimer’s Association – No One Is Alone – Brigham Young University
Remington Butler, Director/Writer
Alex McBride, Producer
IMAX – Maximum Immersion – Brigham Young University
Remington Butler, Director/Writer
Eli Wright, Producer
Alex McBride, Producer
Lucy Nielson, Producer
Lyft – We Don’t Judge, We Drive – Brigham Young University
Remington Butler, Director
Carter Halvorsen, Writer
Jeremy Holbrook, Writer
Gwynie Bahr, Producer
Tanner Jackson, Producer
DRAMA SERIES:
Backlog – University of Southern California
Jacqueline Elyse Rosenthal, Director/Producer/Writer
Zhongyu Wang, Producer
Marian Cook, Producer
Josh Powell, Producer
Chorus – American Film Institute
Daniel Egbert, Director/Writer
Ling Guo, Producer
Windows – University of California, Los Angeles
Jorge Parra Jr., Director/Producer/Writer
Meghan Truax, Producer
NEWS:
Flashpoint Florida: Midterm Election Special – University of Miami
Maddie Bassalik, Producer/Writer
Isabella Morales, Writer
Zachari Levy, Writer
Katelyn Kucharski, Producer
Madison Schurr, Producer/Writer
Anna Coon, Director/Writer
Harvey Duplock, Writer
NewsVision – University of Miami
Embrik Eyles, Producer
Harvey Duplock, Producer
Anna Coon, Director
Katelyn Kucharski, Producer
Derryl Barnes, Writer
Sophia Vitello, Writer
Cal Friedman, Writer
Wyatt Kopelman, Writer
Quinn Davidson, Producer
WUFT News First at Five – University of Florida
Taylor Fishman, Producer
Caroline Chao, Producer
Ophelie Jacobson, Writer
Emily Ferguson, Director
Chris Will, Writer
Camila Pereira, Writer
NONFICTION SERIES:
Healing Paws – Florida State University
Keith Cohen, Director/Producer/Writer
Laced – Florida State University
Nico Wilcox, Director/Producer/Writer
Wings of Dust – New York University
Giorgio Ghiotto, Director/Producer/Writer
SPORTS:
SportsDesk: The Magazine Edition – University of Miami
Daniel Toll, Producer/Writer
Morgan Champey, Director/Producer
Derryl Barnes, Producer
Anna Coon, Producer
Kayla Davis, Producer
Leslie Dominique, Producer
Lauren Lennon, Producer
Jaclyn Marra, Producer
Sports Final – Ithaca College
Bryan Manchester, Producer
Julia Foster, Producer
Ryan Spadafina, Producer
Lauren Mitchell, Director
Rheanna DeCrow, Writer
Eli Fishman, Writer
Teammates: Honoring Sam Mills – Montclair State University
Jason Naccarella, Director
Gianna Daginis, Writer
Matt Orth, Writer
Matt Bruchez, Producer
Teni Bello, Writer
Winners in the competition will be announced by celebrity presenters at the awards ceremony April 13, 2024.
Why Technology is Essential in Preparing Future Academic Leaders

Why Technology is Essential in Preparing Future Academic Leaders

Contrary to widespread belief, America is currently facing educational inequality. Those training for a career in education need to be aware that students in vulnerable communities black, indigenous, and other majority-minority areas, are facing disparity in resources such as books, counselors, and accessibility of educational technology. To make things more complex, factors like socioeconomic status, racism, the lack of acculturation, and the accessibility of technology interact, and often it is challenging to differentiate between their impacts.

The United States spends more on education than other Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) nations. Recent data shows states contribute $367bn to K-12 public education, or more than $7,000 per student. Yet, more money spent does not translate to better academic outcomes.

While the path toward educational equity is long and arduous, it is an essential journey that defines the nation’s course. So, educational leaders must learn to create equitable learning environments to support students’ well-being and education regardless of their backgrounds. Those taking advanced studies such as a Doctor of Education (Ed. D) are taught the practices and considerations to integrate technological innovations into classroom discussions. This is to establish a level playing field for their students struggling to catch up to their peers and reduce academic stress.

A prominent distinction among students is where they live—precisely the difference between rural and urban homes. Those living farther away from their school district may be unable to access the same resources or may be more likely to miss school days because of their living situations. Recent data reveals states like Maine and North Carolina see a significant increase in absenteeism among rural students.

Integrating educational technology into their learning allows students to access classroom materials immediately, ultimately boosting equity. It, in turn, challenges the imbalance of power and privilege, improves communication, and strengthens the economy. On the surface, this seems plausible. However, the big kahuna ensures these students access these technological advancements. Several students lack access to technology at home. Some only have access to a smartphone without a data plan, while others have multiple devices with internet access.

A student’s socioeconomic background impacts how likely they are to have technology access. A Pew Research Center survey reveals roughly 35% of American households with an income of under $30,000 lack high-speed internet access, while only 6% lack high-speed internet. A separate National Center for Education Statistics survey found that more than 60% of school-aged kids had internet access at home.

However, most students reported finding an internet café to complete their assignments. Simply put, the problem is not creating more innovative educational technologies but ensuring students get their hands on these innovations. Educators have an essential role in securing equitable technology access for students.

Many of those studying for a career in educational leadership ask: Is studying for an Ed.D. worth it? The answer is yes, especially if you earn it from an established academic institution such as Rockhurst University. A Doctor of Education degree prepares you with the strategic leadership techniques that can be implemented alongside an awareness of the social and ethical issues that are prevalent within their students. If you want to advocate for better access to education for less-privileged students, a Doctor of Education degree offers insight into the strategies needed to do so.

Keep scrolling as this article tackles several strategies students can learn about in their Ed.D and implement in their future career within educational leadership. These methods can help every student maximize academic innovations to reach their full potential.

Establish a Comprehensive and Systematic Technology Plan

As mentioned, less-privileged students in marginalized communities often lack access to educational technology. What makes this worse is that most educators do not even know it. The issue sometimes boils down to not knowing where to look. By creating a comprehensive and systematic technology plan, educational leaders can evaluate specific issues and determine why these communities lack access.

Once they have identified the crux of the issue, they can establish a foundation of policies that address what is needed to provide equitable technological access to students regardless of their socioeconomic and racial backgrounds. These policies must outline where students can go for help to obtain access, ensure they understand how to access technology, and be flexible enough to accommodate the diverse instructional requisites and student learning styles.

Create Digital Literacy Programs

Building in-depth digital literacy programs is another way for educational leaders to ensure students have equitable access to learning innovation. Many students in the United States, particularly those in marginalized communities, are uncomfortable with digital tools despite living in a technology-driven world. According to PubMed Central, there is a digital divide in the US, with more than half of indigenous and marginalized communities not well-versed in technological advancements.

Some factors impacting this digital divide include the lack of economic resources to purchase digital tools and limited English proficiency. By establishing digital literacy programs, educators can allow students to enhance their technological skills and maximize educational technology to boost their learning. Furthermore, digital literacy programs empower students to understand and navigate the challenges of the online environment, making them responsible digital citizens.

Advocate for Technology Access

In marginalized communities there is a lack of voice to ensure that every child has access to technology and other opportunities that enable them to learn, grow, and thrive. Issues are the central point of policy formulation. For government officials and policymakers to determine the issues to be dealt with, they must learn the most pressing issues within the educational system.

Educational leaders can work with individuals at the grassroots level and interact with the most vulnerable. Once they identify these issues, they can forward them to policymakers to develop policies addressing them. Through this communication cycle, educational leaders can ensure existing issues and demands, such as technology access for marginalized communities, are addressed to the concerned authorities.

It is, however, worth noting that the role of academic leaders is not limited to helping policymakers create educational laws and regulations. They also oversee the effective implementation of those policies and let the students in their schools know about them. On top of that, academic leaders also supervise and track the implementation of these policies to achieve desired objectives and communicate changes should modifications be deemed necessary.

Working Towards Creating an Equitable Learning Environment

Establishing an equitable learning environment does not happen overnight. However, an educational leader can take the initial step today by ensuring students, regardless of their backgrounds, can access the most potent technological innovation to support their progress and enhance overall learning. By gaining an Ed.D, those within education can have a well-rounded view of these issues and an advanced knowledge of the strategies and methods which can be used to overcome them.

SEE ALSO: What are the Key Benefits of Further Study for Nurses?

What are the Key Benefits of Further Study for Nurses?

What are the Key Benefits of Further Study for Nurses?

It is essential for anyone pursuing a career in nursing to have the right training behind them. Training is key for meeting the responsibility even the most junior roles come with and the level of industry specific knowledge which nurses require. For trainee nursing professionals looking to break into the sector, this usually means enrolling in a bachelor’s degree in nursing to start with.

However, nursing is a profession where learning never stops, and this means further education is an important option for those working in the industry to consider. A good example of this is studying a master’s level course while working as a Registered Nurse (RN) to gain a higher-level qualification.

What Advantages Can Nurses Expect from Continuing their Studies?

Choosing to study further is a major commitment and something which merits careful consideration. One thing to factor in is the benefits a more advanced qualification can bring to studying worthwhile.

But what are the key advantages of pursuing further study for nurses?

Improved Role Responsibility

Although there are a few positives from advanced study for nurses, this is perhaps the most important one for many individuals.

Gaining higher-level qualifications opens up more advanced nursing roles for individuals to apply for. Although accessing these opportunities is a benefit of continued education in itself, it also naturally leads to Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) having more responsibility in future roles. This is simply because more senior jobs in the nursing sector tend to come with greater levels of responsibility.

Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) are advanced level nurses who can enjoy a lot more autonomy at work compared to an RN, for example. FNPs can also have a lot more responsibility through leading other staff. Moreover, the increased responsibility experienced by Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) as they lead other staff can be immensely rewarding both professionally and personally. As advanced practice nurses, FNPs often find themselves in roles where they supervise and guide other healthcare professionals, contributing significantly to the efficient functioning of healthcare teams.

In these leadership positions, FNPs are responsible for not only their patients but also the growth and development of their fellow colleagues. This leadership experience not only enriches their own skill set but also empowers them to make critical decisions in patient care, contribute to healthcare policy development, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. It’s an opportunity to influence and shape the future of nursing practice and healthcare delivery while enhancing one’s career journey.

To become an FNP, nurses need to complete the relevant training first. American International College’s online MSN FNP programs provide the qualifications a nurse needs to become an FNP. Designed for busy working nurses, it offers online coursework, affordable fees, and covers essential topics needed for a more senior nursing position.

Variety of Work Environments

Another key benefit which further study can bring to nurses is more choice for them to work. This may include hospitals, clinics, urgent care units, local community health centers, physicians’ offices, care homes, government facilities, or even the military.

As this list of work environments shows, nurses who hold more advanced qualifications enjoy great variety in the settings they can work in. This enables them to work in an environment they enjoy and one that offers the best chances for professional development and career progression.

Professional Development and Increased Performance

The specialized skills and knowledge that extra study provides is crucial to professional development. It enables students to progress their careers and offers skillset expansion when looking for jobs. Further study can also allow students to pick up on the latest trends in nursing theory or practice and share knowledge with others on their course.

This bolsters students’ confidence in their competency. Rather than using this new competency for career progression, nurses may choose to utilize their new skills in their current work environment. This enables them to offer better levels of patient care and suggest positive changes within their team on a wider scale for better outcomes. Working nurses may, for example, build new skills around interdisciplinary collaboration through further study which could allow them to perform better as part of a team in their current role.

More Attractive Salaries

Although the rate of pay is not always the most important thing for people who move into nursing, it is something that must be considered, nonetheless. It is worth noting, therefore, that one advantage of further study for nurses is the ability to earn more.

The more senior, responsible roles advanced training brings access to normally pay better. Considering the time, money, and effort which goes into gaining an advanced nursing degree, it is only fair that graduates are rewarded for this with an increased salary.

Sense of Personal Achievement

Gaining a higher-level qualification in general is one of the best ways to boost self-esteem and delivers a huge sense of personal achievement to graduates.

Advanced nursing programs provide a great sense of satisfaction for students who successfully pass. This sense of confidence can help individuals in all aspects of life, not just throughout their nursing career.

Further Study is a Vital Tool for Nurses to Use

There is little doubt that further study can prove highly beneficial to nurses. It has the potential to deliver a range of advantages from increased performance levels in their current role to the positive impact on their long-term career goals.

SEE ALSO: Beginning a Real Estate Career While in College

Preparing for a Career in Nursing Leadership

Preparing for a Career in Nursing Leadership

Nursing is a profession naturally associated with well-trained clinical professionals who dispense health and social care with compassion and dedication.

It is easy to forget that many also need strong leadership skills, particularly in the fast-changing world of modern medicine. There are advanced nurse practitioners these days who have earned their place at the head of teams of physicians and other colleagues. Nurses are also to be found driving forward many key health initiatives in communities, states and even countrywide.

As one study on this topic notes: “Strong leadership is critical if the vision of a transformed health care system is to be realized.” It goes on to point out that not all nurses start their careers with aspirations of leadership. Instead, the profession should do more to encourage them to prepare for and take on leadership positions “from the bedside to the boardroom.”

In this way, nurses can help to deliver high-quality care, while working in partnership with other leaders in a variety of healthcare professions.

Below, we discuss some of the ways that nurses can prepare to take on this role.

Developing Insights into Leadership Techniques and Attributes

Taking up this exciting challenge, or simply fulfilling your own personal career goals, starts with creating a clear understanding of the differences between managers and leaders.

There is a great deal of information available on the attributes of successful leadership, and it makes sense to thoroughly research the different styles of modern healthcare leaders.

When you look at the leadership skills that can land you a job, some may sound like characteristics that you are born with. However, to prepare for this sort of promotion or new job role, it is completely possible to hone and enhance the soft skills that make successful leaders.

This includes organizational and critical thinking abilities, as well as emotional intelligence.

You will need emotional intelligence to support your team and its individual members to achieve their business and personal goals. This involves being alert to other people’s emotional and mental status and taking a holistic approach with colleagues and other professional associates, not just patients.

A lot of this comes down to a word commonly attached to nursing as a profession — empathy.

Improving Your Emotional Intelligence

This is something that can be achieved during the training phase of your nursing career, but also by exploring your own reactions and responses to different situations.

It is also important to practice being acutely observant, and immersing yourself in the dynamics of any teams of people you engage with. It does not have to be confined to work teams either, as you can remain alert to interactions among any group of people.

Find opportunities to mentor and coach others too. It is amazing how much you learn about yourself as you help others move forward positively.

Boosting Your Communication Skills

To be an effective leader in healthcare, you will also require excellent communication skills and the ability to listen in a constructive and positive manner. This is also something you can practice in many aspects of your life, but especially during interactions in your workplace.

Constructive listening includes the ability to recognize and respond to body language and other non-verbal cues, such as tone of voice. You also need to be responsive and adaptive to the questions you ask, to gather all the information you need.

These are all things you can practice as preparation for a leadership role.

Another core communication ability you will need is to be able to explain things to others clearly, succinctly and in a way that informs, motivates, inspires, and influences them. This suggests that taking presentation skills training can be an asset for a career in nurse leadership.

Optimizing Work Experience and Training

Nurses with strong leadership abilities are intuitive in how they build good relationships with their patients, colleagues, and representatives of external agencies. Including creating a bond with patients that makes them more likely to be honest and understanding in the information they provide.

This links with attributes often described as the two central pillars of ‘social judgment’, which are competence and warmth. Nurses who are leaders certainly need to be able to demonstrate both in their relationship-building.

Warmth will be explored later, but you will find excellent opportunities to develop your technical competence during your training to qualify as a nurse. You can further enhance this through internships and work placements that offer opportunities to interact with a wide range of colleagues and patients.

It is recommended that you optimize every practical experience and placement to develop your technical and soft skills. Especially those linked to your qualification route.

You can acquire an especially strong set of professional and personal skills if you choose to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) qualification program.

A DNP in Leadership can even be earned online, allowing you to continue with your existing nursing job. Reputable institutions such as Baylor University offer this program with 100% online coursework. Students have the opportunity to fully explore vital topics such as influential leadership, transformative care models and data-driven business strategy.

It is also important to acknowledge the value of continuous professional development as a nurse, and to read as much as possible and make time to research emerging healthcare trends, new techniques and technology.

Developing ‘warmth’ as a Leader

Lastly, you should seek out opportunities to develop and demonstrate your ‘warmth’ to prepare for promotion to leadership and achieve success in that role.

Some of the preparation techniques mentioned above can help with this, including becoming more aware of the needs, motivations and barriers that other people in your team have, and then addressing those with empathy.

One great way to work on this is to widen your circle of influence at every opportunity and network with lots of different people. This could include healthcare-related networking opportunities or getting involved in other forms of committees and representative bodies.

Your ability to bring warmth to your relationships as a leader will also grow as your confidence in your nursing technical abilities and knowledge grows. This will also make you a better decision-maker and problem-solver.

SEE ALSO: What is Career Management?

Study Abroad in Abu Dhabi: A Guide to Emirati Etiquette

Study Abroad in Abu Dhabi: A Guide to Emirati Etiquette

Abu Dhabi, the bustling capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a city rich in culture, ingenuity, and modern marvels. The cultural complexities of this dynamic metropolis present both fascinating opportunities and formidable challenges for college students. Learning the customs and manners of the host country is essential if you want to fit in socially and academically. This article aims to help college students make the most of their time in Abu Dhabi by making the most of Emirati customs, the importance of size in the region, individual agency, and a wealth of educational possibilities. It also highlights the city’s many positive attributes, such as its delicious food, joyous atmosphere, and organised public transportation system.

Finding Your Way Through Abu Dhabi’s Diverse Cultural Options

Abu Dhabi is a cultural melting pot where students can choose from a wide variety of cuisines and dress styles. Students who are able to navigate these options with respect are better able to embrace diversity and appreciate the essence of the local culture.

An Unparalleled Chance to Understand Abu Dhabi’s Culture

College students studying in Abu Dhabi have the rare opportunity to experience a diverse array of cultures in Rank UAE. Learning about a place’s history, culture, and people through firsthand experiences at festivals, museums, and other community gatherings is an unforgettable experience that can’t be replicated in a lecture hall.

Abu Dhabi Is the Ultimate Study Destination

Abu Dhabi, with its prestigious academic institutions, is a great place for students to further their studies. The city’s dedication to education and the diversity of its cultural offerings create a setting ideal for intellectual and emotional development.

Abu Dhabi’s Flavors Will Give You Food Fever

The cuisine in Abu Dhabi is an exciting mix of authentic Emirati fare and global specialties. Discovering the local food is a great way to learn about the history and traditions of a place while also satisfying your hunger.

The Locals: Receiving Abu Dhabi’s Warm Hospitality

The people of the United Arab Emirates are famously welcoming and friendly. As a result, college students in Abu Dhabi develop a strong sense of community and a respect for local culture through direct exposure to the warm hospitality of the residents.

Sakura Matsuri

The Sakura Matsuri Festival in Abu Dhabi is a riveting celebration of Japanese culture, enhanced by the beautiful beauty of cherry blossoms. Every year, Abu Dhabi hosts a festival that serves as a shining example of the city’s dedication to fostering international peace and understanding via cultural interaction.

Superior Public Transportation Allows for Quick and Easy Travel Around Abu Dhabi

Residents and visitors alike can take use of Abu Dhabi’s excellent public transportation system. Students may get around the city with convenience and comfort thanks to the well-connected system of buses, taxis, and the cutting-edge metro.

FAQs

What should I pack for Abu Dhabi as a student?

In order to show respect for local customs and traditions, it is recommended that college students in Abu Dhabi dress modestly. In public or sacred spaces, it is preferable to wear attire that covers the shoulders and knees.

How can I respectfully engage with natives in Abu Dhabi?

Taking an interest in the Emirati people’s history, customs, and language will help you connect with them on a deeper level. Respect for cultural standards, such as avoiding overt shows of affection in public, is also crucial.

What are some of the best Emirati foods that students in Abu Dhabi simply must try?

Students should try traditional Emirati dishes like the seasoned rice dish Mach boos and the sweet dumplings luqaimat drizzled with date syrup. Tasting these dishes is a great way to learn about the history and culture of a region’s cuisine.

Is there anything of cultural significance happening in Abu Dhabi that college students should know about?

Students of all disciplines should mark their calendars for the exciting Abu Dhabi Cultural Festival, which will highlight the wide range of artistic and musical expressions in the region. Participating in such gatherings is a great way to learn about the history, art, and culture of a place.

As a student at the University of Abu Dhabi, how can I best utilize the city’s public transit system?

Students can make the most of their time in Abu Dhabi by learning the ins and outs of the city’s public transportation system. Their everyday commute can be simplified if they plan ahead, use digital transport apps, and invest in reusable transportation cards.

Conclusion

As a student at a university in Abu Dhabi, embracing Emirati etiquette can lead to incredible opportunities for learning, development, and adventure. Students can make deep relationships and treasured memories in this vibrant and welcoming city provided they appreciate the importance of scale, value individual autonomy, and seize upon extraordinary educational opportunities.

SEE ALSO: Study Abroad in Tokyo

Why Do Digital Decluttering Before Entering a Job Market?

Why Do Digital Decluttering Before Entering a Job Market?

For graduates, the job application process is challenging and time-consuming. Unlike the experienced seekers who know who is who on the market, yesterday’s students take multiple steps on their way to a dream job in software development.

Gathering all the accomplishments in a resume, psychometric testing, video interviews, and doing some test assignments — these are just a few steps to overcome. Another tiny detail most young specialists forget when looking for their first job is the need for digital decluttering.

Let’s face it, our digital presence has never been more substantial. We do everything online today: learning, shopping, communicating, looking for a job, etc. Every action leaves its mark, known as digital footprint recruiters check to dig deeper into a candidate’s background.

The minimum they can do is to google your name and look through your social media profiles. How you behave and the information you leave online can tell a lot about your personality and suitability for a job. Why bother, and how to manage your digital footprint so it doesn’t ruin your job prospects and future career?

Why Bother

Up to 80% of employers consider checking a candidate’s online presence a part of the assessment. The information you write — social media posts, photos, comments, or any other content — might hinder your chances of getting a job.

By researching your digital footprint, recruiters try to understand if your online presence reflects their brand’s values. They check if you build a personal brand to differentiate yourself from others in your field. Your social media accounts help to view you as a person: interests, stories you share, tone of voice you use to attract the audience, lifestyle choices, etc.

“In the age of AI, individuals harness the power of automation to craft online messages that sculpt their digital personas, forging reputations in the algorithmic gaze. It makes genuine personality traits as critical for employers as your professional skills and job experience.” 

– Hugh Beaulac, Developer, EasyEssay.

Speaking out opinions you’d keep private in offline life can also influence your chances of success. The problem is most users know nothing about digital literacy and etiquette, considering the internet a place where it’s okay to show and tell crap with no accountability or consequences. They feel free to write abusive comments, demonstrate polarized views, share pictures of excessive partying, reveal their addiction issues, etc.

All this adds up to one immense portrait of yours for a potential employer, thus building your online reputation and overall impression of who you are.

Even if your social media profiles are private, it doesn’t mean a recruiter or your current employer can’t see what you write online. The comments you leave on random websites are available. Plus, there’s a practice to perform social media screenings to reveal a candidate’s personality.

It works the same with education facilities doing background checks to see if applicants fit their college. Any mentions of academic integrity violations, provocative deeds, or controversial behavior might lead to denying your application.

Not filtering your online voice can unintentionally leak sensitive information — colleagues’ personal details, trade secrets, intellectual property, etc. — that can be a security risk or lead to your company’s reputation and client trust loss. No wonder recruiters bother about it while still considering your job application.

Decluttering Your Digital Footprint

Say most graduates understand the importance of a positive online presence in their future careers. The question remains: How can you declutter all the outdated and controversial information that is able to ruin your job prospects?

First, it’s not simple to recall your entire digital footprint. Do you remember what you’ve posted and commented on across multiple channels over many years? Even if so, it’s impossible to erase everything, especially from third-party websites you have no right to moderate.

Second, you can’t foresee the conclusions others might make about a particular piece of information. How do you know which one to delete and which is okay to leave?

Some might want to go all-in and delete social media accounts, which is not a wise decision as online visibility equals legitimacy today. Online presence and reputation work like a resume: It presents your identity to the world, and there’s a fine line between the need to be visible and protecting your safety.

That’s what you can do to declutter their online presence before entering a job market:

  • Google your name, or ask friends to do that for you and share the results. Check the findings and remove the outdated or controversial content about you (if you can). If featured by others, you can ask them to remove it or request Google to do that.
  • Untag yourself wherever possible.
  • Delete outdated accounts but work on existing ones.
  • Keep personal affairs separate: Create a new email account for professional communication.
  • Remember about digital privacy and do your best to maintain it: Use unique passwords, manage cookies, check if the websites you visit are secure, etc. Secure your network, and don’t use public ones.
  • Limit the personal information you share online. Ask yourself, “Does the world really need to know this about me? What does this information tell about me?” Don’t share data that might help strangers identify you.
  • Think twice before you hit “Send:” Never write posts when you’re angry or frustrated, and make self-censorship a habit preventing you from potentially controversial statements.

Technology is evolving and improving, becoming an integral part of our lives. We do everything online today: learning, shopping, falling in love, building careers, and more. A digital footprint is significant, and it can make us both win or lose. To reduce its negative impact and possible harm, let’s be digitally literate, declutter our online environment, and stay mindful about what we send to the universe via the internet.

SEE ALSO: Six Routes to Widening Your Skill Set When in the Job Search Process

What to Know About a Career as a Mover or Relocation Specialist

What to Know About a Career as a Mover or Relocation Specialist

So much about our world is changing, and people are needed who can keep up with the pace of change. Families are relocating, businesses are branching out into new markets, and no matter where people go they are going to need specialists who can help get them there. Professional movers and relocation specialists are the experts who lend a hand whenever individuals, households, businesses, and others need to reestablish themselves in new locations. Working with a relocation specialist can help ease the stress associated with the important changes in life, making them easier to handle. Whether you are moving for life, career, business, or even military service reasons, working with the right experts can take the worry out of each stage.

How a Relocation Specialist Helps People

A relocation specialist can provide valuable support to many of the most complex aspects of moving your household or business. If you can answer yes to any of these questions, you might need to work with a relocation specialist:

  • Do you need tough questions answered? Every move is different and will bring with it questions that need answered in a timely manner. Your specialist answers to you, and has the expert insight to address the concerns affecting your relocation process.
  • Do you need to stick to a timeline? Relocation specialists understand that timelines exist for a reason. The specialist you work with understands that people are depending on you, and will strive to meet all target deadlines.
  • Do you need help understanding policies? Contracts, insurance policies, and other agreements can be difficult for the non-expert to understand. Specialists can explain what your rights and responsibilities are so you are fully covered in all circumstances – even the unexpected ones.
  • Do you need help coordinating administrative details? Many details will have to be finalized, regardless of the scope of your move. The specialist you partner with will make sure phone calls are returned, documents are signed, and the right people have the right information. You can focus on the things that matter most to you.
  • Do you need to communicate with real estate agents? – Real estate transactions are more complicated than most people imagine; this is true even if a lease or sale is cancelled. A specialist is able to communicate directly with the agent to facilitate these transactions in a rapid, skillful manner.
  • Do you need help with immigration or visas? If you must navigate immigration or visa applications as a part of employment relocation, working with a specialist is highly recommended. These application processes can be complicated; having someone experienced on your side can make the processes easier.
  • Do you need help at your destination? A specialist can arrange local insurance and banking, vehicle leasing or rental, and even language training. This helps prepare each member of your team for what they will encounter at the relocation destination.

What Does it Take to Be a Professional Mover?

Professional movers are just some of the experts that relocation specialists work closely with. Many moving companies choose to focus on residential, commercial, or specialty moving services; as a result, a company will advertise their area of focus as well as any special moving services they offer, such as antiques, art, or pianos.

Professional movers work in fast-paced environments and may need to work on weekends. Some movers choose to work for agencies focused on home, office, or specialty relocation while others prefer warehouse or delivery work. With a commercial driver’s license, the opportunity to drive large trucks and other large vehicles becomes available. CDL certification may be sought as part of a career path or as a separate, personal decision. Often, on the job training is provided along with other possible training opportunities.

Many professional movers have a high school diploma; a four-year college degree may be helpful in this career field, but is not necessary. A certificate or a two-year degree can also be helpful but is also not necessary to get started as a professional mover. Stamina, strength, a flexible schedule, a clean driving record, and a hard-working attitude are all you need to start. To move up in this career, leadership skills and knowledge of relevant equipment are helpful.

Helping People Move Forward in Life

Relocation specialists and professional movers both provide valuable services to people from all walks of life. People turn to them when it is time to begin a new chapter in life. Could this be a potential career for you?

Written by Taylor McKnight, Author for SMARTBOX Moving & Storage

SEE ALSO: Beginning a Real Estate Career While in College

The Best Foldable Electric Wheelchairs for College: Portability and Conveniance

The Best Foldable Electric Wheelchairs for College: Portability and Conveniance

Mobility is essential in today’s college environment. Having access to a sturdy, lightweight, and transportable electric wheelchair can make a huge difference for students with mobility issues. Due to their portability and convenience, demand has skyrocketed for folding electric wheelchairs. Here, you’ll learn about the greatest electric, foldable wheelchairs available for students. These wheelchairs provide the essential mobility and convenience without sacrificing quality or comfort, making them ideal for use on a college campus with its many pathways and scattered lecture halls.

Recognizing the Importance of Portable Power Chairs

Individuals with mobility disabilities may find it challenging to navigate the varied terrains and confined areas typical of college campuses. A foldable electric wheelchair is a convenient option since it gives the user the support and movement they need without being cumbersome. These revolutionary technologies integrate ease with functionality, allowing students to focus on their studies and college experience without being limited by mobility issues.

What to Look for in a Quality Folding Electric Wheelchair

Several important considerations should be made while deciding on the best foldable electric wheelchair for university use. Among these are:

Convenience and Mobility

The most convenient electric wheelchairs for students will fold up quickly and weigh very little, making them ideal for transporting and stowing away in tight quarters like dorm rooms and classrooms. You should search for devices that strike a good balance between robust build quality and easy portability.

Duration and Mobility of Batteries

Having a good battery life and enough range can make your time at college much easier, especially when it comes to Folding Mobility Scooters. This means that even on the busiest days, students can go about their day without worrying that their devices will run out of juice.

Wheelchair durability and comfort should not be compromised for portability. The frame should be sturdy enough to sustain frequent use on different surfaces, and the seat should be pleasant enough to use for long periods of time.

Ability to Turn and Maintain Command

It’s crucial to be able to make your way effortlessly across congested corridors and corridors. Find models with quick responses and easy movement so that pupils can get around with confidence.

The Most Practical Electric Folding Wheelchairs for University Use

The vast selection of portable electric wheelchairs can be difficult to navigate. We’ve compiled a list of the best lightweight and convenient wheelchairs to help narrow down your search.

Specifications for the Model A: Campus Cruiser

The maximum load is 250 pounds.

Battery Lifetime: 10 Miles

Folded those are the specs: 30″ x 23″ x 12″

Feel at one with the open road in the Campus Cruiser, a vehicle built to handle the rigors of student life. Its compact size and simple folding design make it a convenient travel companion for students.

Specifications for Model B: Nomad Navigator 

300 pound weight limit

Power source mileage: 15 miles

Folded the size is 28″ x 25″ x 10″

The Nomad Navigator is built to last and designed with your comfort in mind, so you can cruise around campus in style. Its extended battery life and small design make it a perfect alternative for students seeking both reliability and portability.

Specifications for Model C: Urban Trekker

Allowable Load: 280 lbs.

Twelve-mile battery range

Folded Size is 32″ x 22″ x 11″

The Urban Trekker’s sleek build and long battery life make it a convenient travel companion for college students in urban settings. It’s a breeze to ride thanks to its strong construction and user-friendly controls.

FAQs

Can electric wheelchairs that fold up be used both indoors and outside?

Most electric wheelchairs that fold up are made to be used both inside and outside with relative ease.

How do I preserve the longevity of my foldable electric wheelchair?

A wheelchair’s lifespan can be greatly increased with routine maintenance checks of the batteries, tires, and frame.

Do you know if electric wheelchairs that fold up will be accepted on the bus?

There are many foldable electric wheelchairs that can be taken on public transit. For more detailed information, however, you should contact your area’s transportation department.

What should I look for in a foldable electric wheelchair concerning safety features?

Essential elements to think about for a safe ride include things like anti-tip wheels, automatic braking systems, and adjustable seat belts.

When I travel, may I carry my electric wheelchair with me?

Some models may be allowed on airplanes, but it’s best to double check with the airline to be sure.

I need a folding electric wheelchair, but I’m not sure where to start looking?

The best way to find out what features you need in a wheelchair and narrow down your options is to consult with a healthcare provider or mobility specialist.

Conclusion

The mobility and independence of students with mobility issues can be greatly improved by investing in the best foldable electric wheelchair for college. These modern wheelchairs provide a barrier-free college experience by prioritizing the needs of the user in terms of portability, durability, and comfort. Selecting the ideal folding electric wheelchair becomes an empowering decision for students seeking ease and mobility once they have the necessary knowledge and understanding of the crucial elements.

SEE ALSO: Thriving in College as an Introvert: Strategies for Success and Personal Growth

Top 7 Library Tips Needed for University

Top Library Tips Needed for University

One of the most important and treasured places in a university is the library. It not only houses books on various subjects but also is an active instrument of the academic system. Despite the amount of knowledge a library offers to share, several students have a love/hate relationship with the library. Whether you are a bookworm or a panicked all-nighter, a library is an ultimate place to get all the reading and research material at one place. Without active support from the library, the complete academic operations can come to a halt. It is a powerhouse of knowledge and holds a significant place in the university for students and teachers to study and research. As a university library has abundant educational resources for dissertation and coursework writing, students must utilise it to its full potential in an enjoyable and useful way. If you lack the motivation of going to the library or are not sure about how to make the most out of the available library resources, here are top 7 library tips that are needed for university.

Take a Tour of the Library

If you think that a university library is same like a school library or a public library, then, you need to take a tour of it to understand the magnificence of a university library. Once you are into the university, make it a point to take an entire tour of the library in your initial days. A library tour will familiarise you with the services and facilities available at the university library. You might not be able to utilise all the available facilities during your first year. However, over time you will be able to better use the library services for academic and research work.

Additionally, some universities have separate libraries for different subjects whereas collegiate universities have their own library as well as one main university library. Taking a tour will help you understand the type of library in your university, its opening hours and rules. One of the best advantages of taking a library tour is that you will get to see if the library can offer you any of your textbooks on a long-term loan. Getting textbooks from the library on a long-term loan can help you in saving a significant amount of money.

Know Your Librarian

Librarians can be of great help to students throughout their academic years. As librarians are highly trained professionals, they can help you in researching and finding reading material on your preferred subject. From textbooks to journals, research papers, eBooks, eJournals and audio-video materials, a librarian can suggest you the best resources. You can either meet your university librarian in person or send an email to get solutions for all your queries. Since the library can be full of books and encyclopedias, new students often get confused about where to start looking for their subject books. A librarian can suggest you from which aisle or shelf you can begin your search.

Explore the Library

You can find complete material to write a great essay or assignment in the library. A number of university students say that they find numerous high-quality research papers and academic publications in a university library that are not available on Google. Although you might prefer to spend time only in your subject section, exploring the different sections of the library will give you a glimpse into the amount of knowledge that the library stores. Many times students need to work on overlapping essay or assignment topics. By exploring the library, you will be able to use resources from various subjects and also understand the perspectives of different authors. Additionally, you can also choose books from other subjects or books aimed at general readers to expand your knowledge and skills.

Skim the Library Shelves

University lecturers often recommend students the books or journals to be referred from the library for writing an essay. However, when you find a book or journal that you were looking for, try to skim the nearby shelves to discover more resources. By looking at related books in the nearby shelves, you might come across a unique collection of books or journals related to your subject. This will help you in getting a better understanding of your subject and in writing a unique essay. Also finding a great book unexpectedly can boost your interest and productivity while working on an essay.

Use Multiple Resources

In addition to the physical collection of books, university libraries also have a vast collection of digital academic resources. Many libraries store audio recordings, DVD collections, newspaper archives, online journals and information in various multimedia formats for the students. As these resources are often underutilised, you can easily get your preferred resource from the library without waiting for it for a long time. You can also get access to library webpages where online copies of books, journals and academic papers are available for the students. This will help you save time in looking for academic resources on other websites.

Take Advantage of Interlibrary Loan

Several university libraries have arrangements with libraries in the same and overseas countries. If you do not find a book in your university library, instead of purchasing the book you can request for interlibrary loan. Interlibrary loan is a service where students can browse the collection of all associated libraries and order a book or a journal from the other library. Under this service, you can also request for scans and photocopies of the academic material to assist you in your research.

Use Library Study Spaces

Apart from borrowing books from the library, you can also use the library space to study quietly and effectively. As a library is a quiet place, students find less distraction in the library as compared to home. Additionally, while studying in the library, all the resources will be immediately available for you and you will not have to wait to access the material on your upcoming visit. Moreover, libraries also offer independent and group study spaces for students to study independently or with a group of friends. This will keep you motivated and save you from unexpected interruptions.

Author Bio: Helen Thomas is an experienced finance and business writer at PhD Finance Writers, specialising in PhD thesis writing for finance. She specialises in research, content and article writing on various topics, including finance, math, and economics. 

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