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Five Scams Targeting College Students and How to Avoid Them

Five Scams Targeting College Students and How to Avoid Them

College can be a difficult time financially. You’re trying to make it on your own and have to make every dollar count to ensure that ends meet.

Unfortunately, scammers are aware of the position you are in and see you as an easy target. During your years in college, it’s highly likely that you’ll be targeted by a scam of some kind. You can reduce your risk of being tricked by learning about some of the common scams that target college students and how to avoid them.

Credit Card Scams

If you’re financially secure, your college years can be a great time to build credit. You’ll have to make a few major purchases every semester, and it’ll look great on your credit history when you pay these off in a timely manner.

However, scammers know that college students are looking for lucrative credit card deals and will do anything to take your hard-earned money. You need to remain vigilant during your college years to avoid the most common credit card scams.

As a student, you may think that you have the awareness necessary to detect phishing scams. However, phishing scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated. You might, for example, receive an email from someone posing as the Dean of your college or a professor — only to find out they are actually a scammer.

Slow down whenever you receive any information remotely related to finances. Read the sender’s address, and follow up in person with anyone that you think may have notified you about credit cards or financial deals. Don’t open any suspicious emails and never give your details out if you aren’t entirely confident that you are speaking to a legitimate company.

Credit card scammers will try to take advantage of your precarious financial position by running “overcharging” scams. Overcharging scams occur when you are told that you have been overcharged and are due a rebate. In reality, these scammers just want your card details so they can drain your account. Watch out for any rebates or low-interest-rate offers that don’t relate to your actual spending history. Visit your bank if you’re still unsure, as they can help you identify legitimate deals and offers.

Housing Scams

You’ll view some dodgy-looking apartments and houses during your college years. In addition to black mold and leaky pipes, you need to watch out for half-truths and deceptive information that targets college students.

If you’re searching online, watch out for digital housing scams. Folks will pose as legitimate agents, only so they can collect your personal information and disappear. So, double-check the veracity of any letting agents before arranging viewings or signing papers.

Watch out for misleading photography, too. Letting agents will use anything from fish-eye lenses to low-angle pictures to make a property look more appealing. While this isn’t technically a scam, it can be frustrating when you show up and find that your new home isn’t what you expected. Avoid disappointment by viewing in person and checking the blueprints to get exact measurements and sizes.

Romance Scams

For many, college is a time of romance and relationships. You’ll meet plenty of like-minded folks when you attend college and may want to meet a life partner between your study sessions.

Unfortunately, romance scams are on the rise. The FBI receives as many as 24,000 romance scam complaints a year and “girlfriend gifts” have accounted for losses in excess of $1 billion.

As a student, you may think that you can tell a tinder date from a catfishing attempt. However, scammers are becoming increasingly heartless and sophisticated. As a rule of thumb, don’t give gifts to anyone you haven’t met in person. Even then, monetary gifts are hardly a sure sign of romantic interest.

Instead, take it slow and get to know your potential partner before you start thinking about romantic gifts. Slow down, and be sure that you can trust them and their interests. If you find that they flake on you more often than not, then they may well be a scammer.

Financial Aid Scams

Every college student wants to win a scholarship or earn extra financial aid. College is expensive, and financial gifts can make a real difference to your quality of life. However, scammers around the country offer illegitimate financial aid in the hopes of stealing your cash.

Stick to trusted sources when searching for scholarships. Your college probably has a financial aid portal with scholarships that have been vetted by professionals. Avoid any scholarships that ask for “advanced payments” as you should not have to pay to enter a scholarship drawing. Instead, stick to legitimate sources that offer free entry for financial aid opportunities.

Cybersecurity

During your college years, you’ll log on to dozens of public computers and surf the web using an array of hotspots and wifi providers. This makes you an easy target for cyber scammers, who know you’re busy working on assignments and may not have the tightest digital security.

Start by blocking spam calls and robocalls. Robocalls and spam change their message frequently and may offer anything from IRS refunds to new cars. As a rule of thumb, you can’t trust an unknown number and should sign up to robocall blockers to reduce your risk of being scammed.

Keep your passwords up to date and avoid the temptation to save passwords on devices that aren’t your own. If Google notifies you about a breach, you should change your passwords ASAP and check your bank account. Acting swiftly can reduce your risk of being scammed and ensure that you keep hold of your well-earned income.

Conclusion

As a college student, scammers believe you are an easy target. Being aware of the most common scams can reduce your risk of being tricked. Even small changes, like following up on email correspondence in person, can reduce your risk of being scammed and ensure that you are able to fully focus on your studies.

SEE ALSO: Should I Buy This? A Guide for Budgeting in College

Tips for Living With Your Partner in College

Tips for Living With Your Partner in College

For many students, college is hard enough on their own. Now, imagine you are there with your significant other. This can be a tough situation, but you can make it work with proper planning, a desire to succeed, and by keeping your eye on the main objective of graduating so you can make a better life for yourselves. Consider these steps, and you can be with the one you love while excelling at your studies — all without missing a step.

Plan Ahead Of Time

If you are going to college for the first time or you have already been in college, but now you are going to move out of the dorms and in with your partner, you first need to take a beat. This will be a new experience, and if you go in blind, then there is a chance that either your relationship or your studies will fall apart.

What you need to do is create a roommate agreement. This document will outline all of the situations that will likely come up during your relationship and provide solutions ahead of time, so you are both on the same page. This agreement can discuss things like who will do the dishes, who will sign the lease, and who will pay for food, among other considerations. However, that is just the tip of the iceberg.

While you are drafting this agreement, consider the pros and cons of living with your partner at university. While you will be with the one you love, you will also both need your “me time,” so you need to write that into the agreement. When will each of you get a chance to be alone and get mentally refreshed? You will also need to share everything, including the TV. Put in writing who will get to watch TV and when. Also, note the times when the TV should be turned off. Put all of these details in the agreement, and then each of you should sign it.

You will also need to put thought into the best tactics for moving to your college apartment without straining your relationship. Moving is hard for all couples, so proper planning can alleviate that pressure. Talk ahead of time and put a moving date in the books that you can both agree upon. Both of you should also be involved in the packing process. Do not get rid of or leave behind your partner’s possessions before consulting them first. If you do decide to leave any electronics behind, ensure that they are disposed of properly so they don’t end up in a landfill polluting the soil.

Put A Lot Of Thought Into Finances

One of the things that couples fight about most is finances. If you want your relationship to continue to thrive while you are in college, then you need to be in agreement about finances from day one. Money may be tight, especially if you have a full class load and a part-time job. Even with both of your incomes, you may still need to be cautious with your money.

The best thing that you can do is to create a budget. Look at every dollar that you have coming in every month and then account for all of your recurring expenses. In college, expenses could include tuition, books, meals, transportation, entertainment, and more. Write down everything, and don’t forget about the costs that many people forget, such as their daily Starbucks run or the cost of the streaming services that you pay every month. Once that is done, look at the money you have left. If there isn’t much, then you may need to cut expenses.

Instead of going to Starbucks, get coffee and breakfast at the cafeteria. Instead of going to the movie theater in town, go to the free campus theater. You can also save money on your monthly utilities. Turn off the lights when you aren’t home and take advantage of natural light during the day. You can also cut down the water bill by taking shorter showers, and if you get approval from the landlord, install low-flow shower heads. You can also save a lot of money by keeping both heating and air conditioning at a moderate level — most people don’t realize how much energy and money the thermostat can eat up.

Remember That You Are Still In School

Through it all, it is important to remember that you are still in school and that passing your classes and graduating with a degree is the primary objective. Make sure that you don’t prevent your partner from having the opportunity to excel in school. While you may be in love, you still need to take time to study. Because of your relationship, it may be tough to study at home, so go to the library where you can work without distractions.

You also need to support your partner when they need it most. Be a shoulder to cry on if they don’t get the grade that they wanted. Help them understand a subject that may not be their strong suit. College can be tough, but if you can make it through this together, then you can make it through anything.

It is also important that you enjoy your accomplishments. Find inexpensive ways to celebrate when one of you aces a test or completes a tough assignment. You can watch one of your favorite movies at home on Netflix or go to the $5 bowling alley and just be there for one another. Never show jealousy or anger if your partner succeeds.

As you can see, it is possible to live with your partner in college and do it successfully. Consider these tips, and you and your loved one can enjoy an amazing life until graduation and beyond.

SEE ALSO: College Dating: 5 Ways to find Love on Campus

Car Insurance for College: What Every Student Needs To Know

Car Insurance for College: What Every Student Needs To Know

Going to college comes with a lot of costs, and you need to carefully monitor your spending if you are going to graduate without a huge and unmanageable amount of debt. There are many ways to save money as a student, and one of the best ways to cut regular costs is by getting a better car insurance deal. Here are some top tips every student should know if they are going to keep the cost of their coverage under control.

Ask Parents Or Grandparents For A Little Help

A student can stay on a parent’s or even a grandparent’s policy if they are comfortable with it. Shared insurance policy payments will increase, but by a much smaller amount than if a student takes on a sole policy. Make sure you shop around together for the best deal that will keep the costs down for both parties. Even if a student does start their own insurance policy, there are still ways to save money.

Remember to search for prices where you will be living. Your college accommodation may be in a different town or state from your university. Students in D.C. or Virginia universities may find their living spaces in Maryland. Look at car insurance policies for Maryland to get the right prices. The Hartford can help you find a quote for a policy in any state, for businesses and the over-50s. Find the best price for Maryland car insurance to help save you money every semester.

Get The Right Level Of Coverage

You might be tempted to only get the most basic insurance coverage possible to save money, but this can be a costly mistake. Young drivers experience more accidents, which is why their insurance costs are a little higher. These accidents are not always their fault, but they can still be left with a big repair bill if they cannot prove an accident was another driver’s fault. You should make sure you have a good level of coverage to avoid big bills later on.

The minimal amount of insurance coverage you should have is for bodily insurance, property damage liability, and collisions. This should help you avoid most costs in the event of an accident. For a higher level of protection against every eventuality, choose comprehensive coverage. This will protect you from the costs of damages caused by severe weather, vandalism, or fire. You should also consider getting mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI) if you are driving a newer car with fewer miles on the odometer.

Install Some Tech That Can Reduce Costs

Some insurance policies will allow you to reduce your monthly or annual costs by installing technology that monitors your driving, or the driving of others. It can be difficult to prove liability in some accidents, and you may be left with a repair bill when an accident was not your fault. Insurers may reduce the cost of your insurance if you install front and rear-facing dash cameras. These can record incidents on the road, and in parking lots, and help prove that another driver was responsible for an accident.

Insurers may also encourage you to install a ‘black box’ to help reduce your insurance costs. These can monitor the number of miles you drive regularly, which can have a massive impact on your costs. The fewer miles you drive, the less likely you are to be in an accident. They will also monitor your speed in the area you are in. If you are a driver that adheres to the speed limits and drives responsibly, this can help push your insurance costs down even further.

Make Extra Savings On The Cost Of Driving

There is a limit to how low you can get your insurance costs. Even if you take all these steps, you can still be left with an expensive regular cost. There are some things you can do to help you reduce your overall costs of driving to help put more money in your pocket while still enjoying having a car and going places with it. The biggest regular cost that comes from driving is the amount you spend at the gas pump unless you drive an electric car.

If you have the option, choose to drive an EV or a hybrid that can drastically reduce your fuel costs. You can also use your car less, especially for short journeys. You could also use other forms of transportation whenever possible to reduce your fuel costs and the chances of you having an accident. Taking the bus or another form of public transportation to classes can save you a lot of money. You could also use a bicycle for a quick trip to the store instead of driving your car.

Follow these top tips and you should be able to make a saving every month, or every year. Reducing the expense of your car insurance puts more money in your pocket to spend on textbooks, meals, or just going out and having some fun with friends.

SEE ALSO: Learning to Cope: Six Wellness Activities for College Students

What is Career Management?

What is Career Management?

Career management is a vital aspect of one’s professional life. It is an ongoing process of building and maintaining a positive work-life balance. We will delve into the basics of career management and why it is so important to take charge of your professional development. Further, we will educate you how different career management companies can help you in this regard such as ProResumes.

What is Career Management?

Career management refers to the steps individuals take to plan and control their career paths. It involves setting career goals, mapping a career plan, acquiring new skills, and seeking out new opportunities. In essence, career management is the deliberate and intentional pursuit of a fulfilling and successful career.

Why is Career Management Important?

Career management is important for several reasons, including:

Career Progression & Management

Career management provides individuals with the opportunity to grow their professional skills, knowledge, and experience. By taking a proactive approach to your career, you can actively pursue the skills, experience, and credentials you need to reach your goals.

Financial Security

By actively managing your career, you can boost your earning potential, maximise your job security, and secure a stable financial future for yourself and your family.

Increased Job Satisfaction

It provides individuals with the opportunity to align their work with their passions, interests, and values. When individuals feel fulfilled and satisfied in their work, they are more likely to be productive and motivated.

Better Work-Life Balance

Career management can help individuals balance their work and personal life more effectively. By pursuing opportunities that align with their passions and interests, individuals can develop a more fulfilling work-life balance.

Which of the Following is a Component of a Basic Career Management System?

A basic career management system is a comprehensive system designed to help individuals plan, manage, and evaluate their career growth and development over time. This system is essential for anyone who wants to build a successful career, as it provides a structured approach to career planning and decision-making. A basic career management system typically consists of the following components:

Self-Assessment

Self-assessment is the first step in the career management process. This component helps individuals understand their strengths, weaknesses, skills, interests, and values. Self-assessment can be done through various tools, such as personality tests, interest inventories, and skill assessments. The results of self-assessment can help individuals identify their career goals and determine which career paths may be a good fit for them.

Career Exploration

Career exploration involves researching different career paths and gathering information about potential job opportunities. This component helps individuals understand the skills and knowledge required for different careers and the opportunities for advancement and growth within each field. It is also important for individuals to research the work environment, company culture, and salary expectations associated with different careers.

Career Planning

Once individuals have completed self-assessment and explored different career paths, they can use the information to create a career plan. A career plan outlines an individual’s career goals and the steps they need to take to achieve them. This component also includes creating a timeline for reaching career milestones and setting goals for professional development.

Job Search and Application

This component of the career management system involves actively seeking out job opportunities that align with an individual’s career plan. This includes preparing a resume, cover letter, and any other job application materials. It also involves networking and using job search engines, job boards, and other resources to find job openings.

Interview Preparation

Once individuals have applied for a job, they may be invited to participate in an interview. This component of the career management system focuses on preparing individuals for the interview process. This includes researching the company, practicing common interview questions, and preparing responses that highlight their skills and experience.

Career development

Once individuals have secured a job, they can focus on developing their careers. This component involves continuous learning and professional development, including attending training and workshops, seeking out mentorship opportunities, and seeking promotions and advancement within their field.

Career Evaluation

This component of the career management system involves regularly reviewing an individual’s career progress and evaluating their career goals. This can help individuals identify areas where they need to focus their professional development efforts, as well as areas where they have already made progress. Career evaluation also involves considering any changes in personal or professional circumstances that may impact an individual’s career path.

Each of these components is essential for creating a successful career. By taking the time to complete self-assessment, explore different career paths, devise a career plan, and actively seek out job opportunities, individuals can ensure that they are on a path to career success. Furthermore, by focusing on continuous learning and professional development and regularly evaluating their career progress, individuals can continue to grow and advance in their careers over time.

However, it is important to note that a basic career management system is not a one-time process. It is a dynamic system that requires ongoing effort and attention. Individuals must continually assess their skills and interests, seek out new job opportunities, and evaluate their career progress to stay on track and reach their career goals.

Steps for Effective Career Management

Self-Assessment: The first step in career management is to take a step back and assess your current skills, interests, and goals. Ask yourself what you enjoy, what you are good at, and what you hope to achieve in your career. This will help you understand what you need to do to reach your goals.

  • Once you have a clear understanding of your skills, interests, and goals, it’s time to set some career goals. Set both short-term and long-term goals that align with your career aspirations.
  • To reach your career goals, you will need to develop and refine your skills. Seek out opportunities to gain new skills, such as training courses or workshops. Consider seeking mentorship from experienced professionals in your field.
  • Networking is an important part of career management. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with people in your field. Building strong professional relationships can open doors to new opportunities.
  • A career plan is a roadmap that outlines your career goals, the skills and experience you need to reach them, and the steps you will take to achieve them. A career plan can help keep you focused and motivated as you work towards your goals.
  • Stay up to date with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in your field. This will help you stay competitive and increase your chances of success.

Conclusion

Career management is an ongoing process of developing and maintaining a positive work-life balance. By taking a proactive approach to your career, you can actively pursue the skills, experience, and opportunities you need to reach your goals. Whether you are just starting your career or you are looking to make a change, career management is an essential aspect of professional development. So, start taking charge of your career today and unlock your full potential!

SEE ALSO: How to Create the Perfect LinkedIn Profile

Learning to Cope: Six Wellness Activities for College Students

Learning to Cope: Six Wellness Activities for College Students

There is no way around it. Being a college student can be stressful. There is constant pressure to get good grades, impress your instructors, and work towards a bright future. When you are on your own and away from home, it is easy to try and cope with stress through unhealthy behaviors like drinking or hanging out with a bad crowd. However, it is important to manage that stress in a healthy way. We’re here to tell you that there are many wellness activities that you can try that can help to quell some of that unwanted anxiety. Consider some of these helpful tips and see what works for you.

1. Look Inside Yourself

The first activity that you should try is to take an honest look inside of yourself and decide if you are becoming mentally drained or burned out. Sometimes, something as simple as your college major could cause you stress. Recent research shows that some of the most stressful majors are education, psychology, and science. So, if you are entering one of those programs, then you need to already have a plan of action to maintain your mental health.

Sometimes, we may try to convince ourselves that we are happy, but inside, we may be struggling. The first step is to understand the signs of burnout, which can include trouble concentrating, reduced energy, or a general lack of motivation. If you notice that you’re having consistent issues, then you should try one of the activities below.

2. Get Creative

It is not uncommon to focus on your schoolwork so intently that you forget to take breaks and rest your mind. As a solution, consider intertwining your work with some new creative hobbies to get you back on track. There are many fun hobbies that can help with your memory and concentration, including painting, playing a musical instrument, and learning to knit and crochet.

These hobbies can be helpful because they allow you to put schoolwork aside while you do something that you enjoy. It is easy to get lost in a painting or to fall in love with playing the trumpet and watch as your anxieties melt away. Playing an instrument has also been found to reduce cognitive decline. So, if your school has a band, consider joining.

3. Go Out With Your Friends

Another way to get the healthy mental breaks that you deserve is by going out and keeping up with your social life. Getting out of the dorm and meeting up with friends is a great way to do something completely different and take your mind off of your work for a few hours. Plus, your friends likely have similar issues, so you can talk with them and learn the methods that they use to handle their stress.

Consider the idea of combining your school work with your social life by forming a study group where you can meet up, attend to your studies, and improve your social skills along the way.

4. Spend Time With Animals

Many people deal with their stress by adopting a pet. A dog or cat will act as a constant companion that will give you a purpose and a sense of responsibility. Since many colleges may not allow pets in the dorms, you can try a different approach.

Look online and see if there is a stable or equestrian center nearby and ask if you can ride or work with the horses. There are many benefits to riding horses. Among them is the ability to strengthen your core, legs, and back as you ride. Horses can also have a very calming presence for people, and riding through the wilderness can bring you back to a more natural place where your worries can drift away. If you are able to care for one of the horses, then you could also get a sense of routine and companionship that can help you to ease your mind.

5. Get Your Feelings Out

If you don’t find healthy ways to cope with your stress, then your anxieties can escalate over time. A good way to find peace is to get your feelings out. If you have mild stress, then you can clean up your mindset by talking to a friend or consider journaling. Writing all of your feelings out can do wonders for your psyche. The best time to do so is before bed. By writing out your anxiety and stress of the day, you can get it out of your system and ensure that you get a good night’s rest.

6. Reach Out for Help

Finally, if you try the activities above as well as your own relaxation methods but you are still feeling stressed, then you may want to join a group or speak to a professional. The fact is that if you are feeling mentally drained or upset, you are not alone. Student mental health is a priority on many campuses these days, so school officials are making it a point to provide services that can help young people in need. Look at local bulletin boards, speak to your resident advisor, or talk to your counselor about groups on campus that can help.

In the end, if you are a student who is coping with anxiety at school, then know that you are not alone. Consider the activities discussed here, and seek extra help if you need it so you can thrive during your college career.

SEE ALSO: Five Scams Targeting College Students and How to Avoid Them

Bloomberg Philanthropies Pivots CollegePoint Program with Matriculate

Bloomberg Philanthropies Pivots CollegePoint Program with Matriculate

Bloomberg Philanthropies and Matriculate announced an expansion of their partnership to provide free, personal “near-peer” college advising to high-achieving students from lower-income families through Bloomberg Philanthropies’ CollegePoint initiative. Beginning with students graduating high school in 2023, CollegePoint will focus exclusively on empowering first-generation college students to enroll and graduate from the nation’s top colleges and universities. Ken Griffin, founder and CEO of Citadel, also announced generous support to help Matriculate extend the impact of the CollegePoint initiative and serve more students nationally.

With recent data showing a national decline in college enrollment and that qualified, low-income, first-generation (students whose parents did not attend a four-year college or university) students are questioning the value and cost of a college education in greater numbers, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Ken Griffin, and Matriculate are committed to helping ensure that high performing students in the U.S. have access to the best college guidance, financial aid information, and higher education opportunities regardless of their socio-economic background. With the right support and role models, these students can change the trajectory of their own lives and the lives of their families – which also provides tremendous benefits to our nation’s colleges, communities, and employers.

“As always, Bloomberg Philanthropies is committed to following the data,” said Jenny Sharfstein Kane who leads Bloomberg Philanthropies college access and success work. “The data from the past several years clearly shows that near-peer college advising as part of CollegePoint has had significant impact in helping lower-income students go to the top schools they deserve to attend. We are excited to double down our support on Matriculate and serve even more deserving students across the country.”

“We are deeply grateful for these two transformative investments in Matriculate’s near-peer model. For years, Bloomberg Philanthropies’ tremendous support and partnership has made our advising work possible,” said Madeline Kerner, CEO and Co-founder of Matriculate. “We are so grateful to have Ken Griffin and the Citadel and Citadel Securities team coming on board to help deepen our impact, particularly during this critical time for communities experiencing the continued impact of COVID. We look forward to empowering students through virtual, near-peer advising, and in doing so, increasing access and equity in higher education.”

3,000 students graduating high school in 2023 will be advised through CollegePoint; increasing to 3,500 students graduating in 2024; and growing to 4,000 students graduating in 2025. Bloomberg Philanthropies has committed $86 million to CollegePoint since its inception, including a new $12 million commitment to Matriculate over the next three years. Ken Griffin, Citadel, and Citadel Securities are committing $3 million in support over the next two years to Matriculate.

In 2014, Bloomberg Philanthropies launched CollegePoint, which through a coalition of non-profit partners – including standardized testing partners College Board and ACT, and advising partners Matriculate, College Advising Corps, College Possible, and ScholarMatch – provided the first-ever one-on-one college advising services via phone, text, email, and video chat at scale to high achieving, lower-income high school students over an average of 15 months. The goal was to increase the number of high-achieving, lower-income students who attend selective institutions from one-third of the total pool to one-half by 2020, a goal which was reached a year early in 2019. In the past eight years, CollegePoint has provided virtual advising to 63,000 talented students.

Now, in response to an ongoing evaluation of the initiative, College Advising at a National Scale: Experimental Evidence from the CollegePoint initiative, all CollegePoint students will be supported by Matriculate’s successful near-peer Advising Fellows: college students trained by Matriculate to connect remotely with high school juniors and seniors, providing them with the guidance, information, and peer modeling they need to navigate the complex college application process. Near-peer advisors understand their advisees in ways that adults cannot –offering a personal perspective and problem-solving techniques that they themselves may have used in their own application processes. Their support often gives students the confidence they need to apply to top, high-graduation rate colleges they thought were unattainable and the understanding that their eligibility for aid makes attending college financially realistic for their families.

A randomized controlled trial done as part of the College Advising at a National Scale evaluation measured the unique effects of CollegePoint and its four advising organizations on student enrollment outcomes. The trial showed that Matriculate, founded in 2014, generated significant effects, including a nearly 9 percent increase in students attending high graduation rate colleges, and a 24 percent increase in students attending the nation’s top 80 colleges (Barron’s 1 institutions). The evaluation also highlighted the positive impact CollegePoint has had supporting first-generation college students, causing Bloomberg Philanthropies to focus on assisting first-generation students exclusively moving forward – especially given the increasing danger of these students not attending college due to recent COVID-19-related financial and emotional hardships.

Low-income, first-generation college students account for 40 percent of the overall entering-college population in the U.S., but only account for one third of college graduates. They often lack personalized guidance about which institutions are a good match for their level of academic achievement and interests, accurate information about the real costs of these institutions and the financial aid that is available to them, and models of students like themselves who have successfully made the transition to top-performing colleges and universities.

Research shows that first-generation college students disproportionately enroll at less selective colleges, despite experiencing higher graduation rates at more selective colleges. The graduation rate for first-generation students at open-admission schools is below half the rate for non-first-generation students by a gap of 23 percentage points. Once enrolled in college, lower-income, first-generation students perform as well as their more affluent peers – and by “undermatching” may limit their academic and professional prospects.

“One-on-one advising from near-peers who are in college and who have overcome many of the same obstacles current high school seniors face can be an effective strategy to improve college access and success for first-generation students,” shared Ben Castleman, the Newton and Rita Meyers Associate Professor in the Economics of Education, and the Founder and Director of the Nudge4 Solutions Lab, at the University of Virginia. “Matriculate’s evidence-based model is a promising approach to scale peer mentoring to thousands of academically-talented first-generation students across the country.”

CollegePoint works with partners including the College Board and ACT to proactively reach out to high-achieving (distinguished by their scores on the PSAT, SAT, or ACT, or by excelling on a rigorous high school curriculum), lower-income (annual family income of $80,000 or less) high school students in their junior year or the summer before their senior year and invite them to receive free, one-on-one, virtual college advising. Once they are matched with one of nearly 1,000 Matriculate Advising Fellows, students will connect with their Advising Fellow via phone, email, video chat and text over the following months. Advising Fellows serve as guides in the application process as well as models of matriculation, having successfully enrolled in top colleges themselves. With their Advising Fellow’s support, each student maps out what they are looking for in a college or university, builds a list of colleges, and applies for scholarships and other financial aid.

Moving forward, working with various partners, Bloomberg Philanthropies will continue to surface and implement lessons learned from CollegePoint’s original cohort model and strategically devise ways to help even more students determine their best options and opportunities after high school.

SEE ALSO: Google Partners with Columbia, UMich, ASU and Others to Offer Exclusive Programs to Students

How to Write an Internship Resume That Will Get You Hired

How to Write an Internship Resume That Will Get You Hired

An internship resume is a document that highlights your skills, experiences, and education. It showcases why you are the best fit for a particular internship opportunity.

Creating a strong internship resume demonstrates your qualifications and makes you stand out as a great candidate for the position. Additionally, it is important to tailor your resume to the specific internship you are applying for. Professional paper writing service can be a useful in this process, as they can help you improve your resume’s formatting, grammar and language, but should not be used as a replacement for your own skills and experiences.

This guide will provide tips and strategies on how to write an internship resume that will help you stand out and get hired.

Tailor Your Resume to the Specific Internship

When applying for an internship, it’s important to tailor your resume to the specific opportunity you’re applying for. This means identifying the key skills and experiences that the internship requires and highlighting them in your resume.

For example, if the internship is in a marketing role, you should emphasize any marketing-related experiences you have. Such as social media management or event planning.

Use a Professional Format

To begin, use a professional format for your resume. A clean, easy-to-read format will make it easier for hiring managers to scan your resume and find the information they need. Use bullet points and clear headings to organize your information and make it easy to read.

Include a Strong Summary or Objective Statement

Next, include a strong summary or objective statement at the top of your resume. This is your chance to make a great first impression and showcase why you’re the best fit for the internship. Make sure to include relevant keywords that reflect the skills the internship requires.

Emphasize Your Education and Work Experience

After your summary statement, you can include sections like “Education,” “Work Experience,” and “Skills.” In the “Education” section, list your relevant degrees, majors, and any relevant coursework.

In the “Work Experience” section, include any relevant job or volunteer experience you have. If you don’t have much work experience, consider including any relevant extracurricular activities or volunteer work.

Finally, in the “Skills” section, list any relevant technical or soft skills you have, such as in a particular software or language.

Use Specific Examples and Metrics

When describing your experiences in the “Work Experience” or “Education” section, use specific examples and metrics to show the impact you made in your previous roles. Instead of listing your responsibilities, describe specific accomplishments. Also, describe how you added value to the organization.

This will help hiring managers see the concrete ways in which they can contribute to the internship.

Highlight Any Relevant Achievements or Awards

Another important aspect is to highlight any relevant achievements or awards you have received. This could include academic awards, leadership positions in extracurricular activities, or other recognitions.

These accomplishments show your skills and abilities and give the hiring manager a sense of your potential.

Include Relevant Projects

Besides traditional experiences, don’t forget to include any relevant online or offline projects that you have completed. For example, if you developed a website or app, include it in your resume.

This not only shows your technical skills but also your ability to complete projects.

Proofread and Get Feedback

In the end, make sure your resume is free of errors and easy to read. Use a spell checker and have a friend or mentor review your resume. Keep in mind that hiring managers often have to go through hundreds of resumes. So make sure yours is easy to read and stands out.

Internship resume template

Here is an example of an internship resume template:

Name: [Your Name]

Contact Information: [Email, Phone Number, LinkedIn Profile]

Objective Statement: [A brief statement outlining your qualifications and why you are a great fit for the internship]

Education:

  • [Degree, Major, and Institution] (e.g. Bachelor of Science in Marketing, XYZ University)
  • [Relevant coursework, e.g. “Marketing Research, Consumer Behavior, Digital Marketing”]

Work Experience:

  • [Job Title and Company Name] (e.g. Marketing Intern, XYZ Corporation)
  • [Job duties, responsibilities, and accomplishments in bullet points]
  • [Dates of employment] (e.g. Jan 2020 – Present)

Skills:

  • [List of relevant technical and soft skills]

Achievements:

  • [List of any relevant achievements or awards]

Projects:

  • [Name of project, e.g. “Developed a website for XYZ Non-Profit Organization”]
  • [Brief description of the project and your role]

References:

  • [Name, title, company, and contact information of at least two professional references]

Internship resume example

Name: Jane Doe

Contact Information: janedoe@email.com | 555-555-5555 | linkedin.com/in/janedoe

Objective: Detail-oriented and self-motivated marketing student. Experience in social media management and event planning. Seeking an internship opportunity in a fast-paced marketing environment to further develop my skills and gain hands-on experience.

Education:

  • Bachelor of Science in Marketing, XYZ University (Expected graduation: May 2024)
  • Relevant coursework: Marketing Research, Consumer Behavior, Digital Marketing

Work Experience:

  • Marketing Intern, ABC Corporation (June 2022 – Present)
  • Assisted in the development and implementation of marketing campaigns. Resulting in a 15% increase in website traffic
  • Conducted market research and analyzed data to identify target audiences
  • Managed the company’s social media accounts, resulting in a 20% increase in followers
  • Volunteer Event Coordinator, DEF Non-Profit Organization (January 2021 – May 2022)
  • Organized and executed successful fundraising events, resulting in a 30% increase in donations
  • Coordinated with volunteers and vendors to ensure smooth event execution

Skills:

  • Proficient in Google Analytics, Photoshop, and Microsoft Excel
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Experience with social media management and advertising

Achievements:

  • Won first prize in the XYZ University Marketing Competition (2022)
  • Received the XYZ University Marketing Scholarship (2021)

Projects:

  • Developed a website for GHI Non-Profit Organization (2020)
  • Created a responsive website using WordPress and managed a team of 3 individuals. Resulting in a 50% increase in online donations.

References:

  • John Smith, Marketing Manager, ABC Corporation, (555) 555-5555, johnsmith@email.com
  • Mary Johnson, Marketing Professor, XYZ University, (555) 555-5555, maryjohnson@email.com

Conclusion:

Tailoring your resume to the specific internship you are applying for and highlighting your relevant experiences, skills, and education can help you stand out from the competition.

SEE ALSO: Apply for an Internship

Why Do Students Need Assignment Guidance?

Why Do Students Need Assignment Guidance?

It can be a difficult time for students in college because of the many things they have to deal with. They have to deal with their academics, finances, and personal lives simultaneously, which can cause stress and anxiety. This is why students often find themselves looking for assignment guidance. They know they need help but don’t want anyone else to know about it. The good news is that there are many ways out of this situation. One of them involves getting help from outside sources for cheap assignment writing so that you can succeed in your classes. External support prevents getting kicked out of school due to poor performance on assignments.

Students have to Deal with many New Things when they Come to College

When you’re in college, you deal with many new and unfamiliar things. You have to adapt to a new environment, learn to live independently, and make decisions. You also have a lot more responsibilities than when you were in high school. Students may need help understanding all the challenges they face at college. And that’s why they need help from an expert who can guide them through these challenges.

It is Natural to Seek Help

It is natural for students to seek help as they are not used to managing their own lives. Their parents and teachers have conditioned them to accept the need for supervision, guidance, and assistance in all aspects of their lives, including assignments.

When it comes to college essay assignments, students need help figuring out where to start. Or how to go about doing them. They are used to having someone else do this work for them. This action gets them good grades and avoids punishment by their teachers or school authorities.

High Expectations

Students are expected to take up too many responsibilities and fulfill their obligations. This is where they need to manage their time well to balance their personal and professional lives. Prioritizing the assignments is another important thing that students should be able to do while tackling other projects. Managing time is a skill that can help them get better at managing things in general, which makes it all the more vital for them to learn how to do it properly.

Assignments Take up a lot of Time

Students have a lot going on in their lives. They have to go to school and complete all the assignments assigned to them by the teachers to finance Education. The projects take up a lot of time, and they must get them done on time while juggling all the other things they must do. In addition, they may be given assignments that are too difficult for them or require tasks outside of the classroom (such as interviews with experts). These tasks can be challenging for students who need to learn what is expected from them.

Students Usually Produce Low-Quality Assignments

  • This issue also negatively affects the assignment quality, which leaves students feeling like they need help figuring out what to do.
  • A student’s lack of time and effort to put into an assignment will undoubtedly affect its quality.
  • If students can communicate their ideas clearly, then it is likely that their work will be accepted or better rated by the professor.
  • If a student does not stay focused on the task, they may end up handing in an assignment of low quality.

They Can’t Give up on their Education, though, Since that would be a Big Mistake

This is why many parents and students believe that the best way to manage their Education is through assignment guidance services. It helps them know exactly what to do to get their degree. It also gives them options for how they can go about doing this. This service also provides students with other benefits, such as access to tutors who can help them in writing an essay and exams. Furthermore, they advise on how they can improve themselves academically.

This isn’t just about getting a college degree, though. It’s about ensuring you save money by paying for something that will benefit you. That’s why many people choose this option over others, like online classes or taking classes at community colleges.

Why Students must Use Assignment Services

Most students don’t need any more challenges when they come to college. However, their lives are already busy with problems from home, work, and other personal issues that can no longer be ignored. The truth is that most students become so overwhelmed by all these responsibilities that they end up failing to do anything right at all. This is where writing help comes in handy for them since it assists with assignment writing and other related academic tasks. Using this help ensures your grades do not drop because of your inability to manage time or complete tasks on time.

Reduce Stress

Perhaps the most significant benefit of all is stress reduction. With a professional writer on your team, you can relax and not worry about completing assignments or meeting deadlines. You will also have peace of mind about getting good grades. Knowing that your task was conducted by an accredited writer with experience with your topic means you won’t have to worry about the quality of their work.

Get more Free Time

By hiring assignment guidance, you’ll be able to spend more time with your family. You can work on other projects. You can earn a little money by selling any extra hours your services are not used.

Conclusion

We hope we were able to make a case for why students need assignment guidance as much as they might not want to admit it. It is always possible to start taking control of your life and handle things independently, even if this means getting help from another person. That way, you will be able to succeed in whatever field you choose without having regrets when looking back at things later on down the road.

SEE ALSO: The Dissertation Finishing Mindset: How to Complete Your Study on Time

Should I Buy This? A Guide for Budgeting in College

Should I Buy This? A Guide for Budgeting in College

College is an exciting time for many reasons. In addition to learning the skills you will need to land an amazing career after graduation, it is also a chance to gain some independence away from home and set up your own little life. The trap that many graduates fall into is that they get some extra money from side gigs or student loans and spend it too fast or waste it on the wrong things. If you go down the wrong path for too long, then you could find yourself in financial ruin.

The solution is to create a budget, see what is left over, and then make smart money decisions that will allow you to get what you need without landing in financial hot water. Let’s talk about how students can change how they think about money.

Create A Budget And Focus On School

The first essential step toward financial security in college is to create a budget. You need to sit down and look at every dollar you have coming in from side gigs, financial aid, and anything you get from your parents and then compare that to your monthly expenses. Factor in everything you pay every month, from tuition and room and board to your food budget, costs for extracurricular activities, and books. Consider using a personal budget worksheet to make these calculations.

Look at how much you have left and make the proper adjustments to your lifestyle and buying decisions. Remember that while you are in college, your schooling is the top priority. If you need to decide between spending one hundred dollars on a pleasure trip to Denver or on a class that can help you in the future, then go with the educational opportunity.

Also, if you need to decide between different electives, then do your research so you can spend your money on the class that will further your career. So, if you are going into business and you want to start your own company someday, then an accounting class is a good use of your money. If your future career might involve public speaking, then consider presentation design classes. These seminars can teach you how to put together facts and create attention-grabbing presentations. Public speaking is a great skill that could give you a leg up in your career.

Get Smart About School Supplies

Even if you avoid extracurricular activities and just stick to your classes, you will find that college gets more expensive by the day. That is why you must be smart about what you need to buy and also consider alternative solutions.

For instance, while many new students get excited about buying new books for all of their classes, a trip to the cash register can be a sober reminder that the average college textbook costs between $80-$150. Multiply that by six classes, and you could go through all of your money before you know it. Instead, consider the idea of buying your textbooks used, or you can ask about renting the books that you need. You can rent books on campus or use popular sites like Amazon Textbook Rental. Renting is a much more affordable option, especially if you never plan to read the book again after the class ends.

You can also save money by avoiding the purchase of electronics and costly devices instead looking at inexpensive online apps. As an example, many students may purchase the Microsoft Office Suite so they can use Word and Excel for their classes. As an alternative, you can use free apps, like Google Docs and Google Sheets, and perform the same actions for a fraction of the cost.

Also, if you find yourself scanning a lot of schoolwork into your computer, you may be attracted to the idea of buying an expensive scanner. However, you can save a fortune by using a mobile scanning app that allows you to simply take a picture of your document and add it to your electronic files without the need to carry around bulky hardware.

Handling Miscellaneous Expenses Outside Of The Classroom

Of course, handling your finances in the classroom is only half of the battle. You also have a personal and dorm life to afford. The good news is that for just about every expense, there is an alternative. For instance, decorating your dorm can be fun, but the expenses can quickly get out of hand, so find an affordable way to make this space your own by making DIY decorations and buying furniture and bling from the thrift store.

Food costs are also a big issue for many college students. If you have a busy schedule, then you may think that eating out at a fast food restaurant is all you have time for, but if you go out to eat every day, the expenses can get out of control. So, consider the idea of going to the grocery store to get all of the food that you need for the week. In addition to saving money, if you try this tactic, then you will have all the food that you need right there in your dorm, so you don’t have to leave when you get hungry.

When you do need to travel to the store or to the library for your study group, consider the costs of taking public transportation versus using Uber or Lyft. Taking the bus may not be the most luxurious way to travel, but you could be spending a fraction of the cost. In Illinois, the cost of public transportation is close to $3 versus the average Lyft ride, which costs closer to $20. The point is that there is always a more inexpensive way to do things. You just need to do your research.

As you can see, it is possible to make a smart budget that can make college much more affordable. Consider the tips here, and you’ll be able to buy everything you need and have some cash to spare.

SEE ALSO: How to Prepare For Your First Year of Living in a College Dorm

The Dissertation Finishing Mindset: How to Complete Your Study on Time

The Dissertation Finishing Mindset: How to Complete Your Study on Time

Writing a dissertation is literally the most difficult, challenging, and time-consuming academic requirement both Master’s and PhD students face in their academic careers. Some of us have the time and resources to approach our dissertation as a passion project and complete it on time. The rest of us are not so lucky due to various reasons, starting from procrastinating and the need to read more before writing to outside responsibilities that make the completion of a dissertation daunting, and even close to impossible.

While research is not easy by any means and dissertations seem to actively resist your planning attempts, there is only one major thing that distinguishes a productive and effective researcher from one who misses their deadlines. And this thing is a mindset or, let us put it this way, a dissertation-finishing mindset.

Students with this kind of mindset take a pragmatic approach to writing a dissertation. You know the sort: those students who can abandon a line of inquiry without hesitation if it does not add value to their writing or is going somewhere unproductive. Their dissertations get approved because they strictly follow their university’s content, formatting, structure, and ethical requirements. No more and no less. A successful dissertation writer is not precious about their point of view or ‘voice’, which makes them effective. All that matters for these people is that the job must be done efficiently.

One might say that experience is the best teacher and the more you write academic papers, the more you become effective and efficient in doing it. However, how could you possibly plan and complete your dissertation on time if this is the first time you face such a huge task? Indeed, few of us as students write more than one dissertation. But let’s face it: writing a dissertation is not much different from writing your ordinary essay. Of course, a dissertation is a much more complex piece of research and academic writing but your academic career has been developing up to this particular point where you need to apply the skills and competencies you have been developing since your admission. Thus, it’s not something completely new, it’s just another level of complexity.

So what do you need to develop a dissertation-finishing mindset? Well, there are several tips we can give that will help you stop procrastinating and become a more effective and efficient writer.

Other people’s opinions can be unhelpful noise 

If you want to finish your dissertation on time, you should make it a priority. However, some students’ definitions of priority may differ drastically. When we say your dissertation comes first, we mean above all commitments. Some people may be resistant to this idea and that is ok.

Your family members and friends might not get why you are so committed to your dissertation, so spending some time explaining your reasons might be a good idea to keep your relationships healthy. You should also take other people’s opinions about your study with caution. Sure, it is helpful to get some advice from recognised experts and supervisors on how to improve your thesis. However, all these people have their own pet methods and theories, so hearing how they would do it is largely pointless. Remember that they are not writing your dissertation – you are.

Finishing your dissertation ‘properly’ is a mirage

Dissertations, especially at a PhD level, open as many research issues and problems as they solve. That is why you should find a way to draw a narrow line between arriving at a useful and meaningful conclusion and a willingness to invest more resources in the study. The truth is that no dissertation is ‘complete’ in terms of its data-gathering exercise, meaning every academic study could benefit from more time, effort, and money. Developing the ability to identify this line, even if it is uncomfortable, is a useful skill that would help you become a more effective and efficient writer and complete your dissertation on time.

Do not see mistakes as a path to perfection

Making mistakes in research and academic writing is a reality we all have to bear with. Believe us when we tell you that literary every academic writer has had the experience of throwing out a piece of writing or a data set and starting all over again. One could argue that without mistakes it is impossible to learn how to become better. There is even a popular quote by Samuel Beckett who said “Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better”.

However, there is no point in spending too much time dwelling on your mistakes because you can end up thinking you are dumb and you will never get your dissertation done on time. Still, sometimes we can make the same mistake over and over again, and this is something you must deal with to become an efficient writer. To do that, you should identify what went wrong. Afterwards, do what you can to rectify your mistake and move on. If the same mistake happens again, think about how you could avoid it next time.

Take care of your health and wellbeing

Sure, your dissertation should take priority over many things if you want to complete it on time. However, one thing that is more important than your dissertation is your health because it will significantly affect your research and writing abilities. Do not forsake eating organic food, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising to keep your body healthy and your mind active. Sleep well and give yourself some rest from time to time to avoid burnout, maintain a high level of motivation and engagement.

There is a myriad of circumstances that can hinder students’ ability to finish their dissertations on time. While we all have outside commitments and responsibilities, it is crucial to have the right mindset to complete your study according to the schedule. We believe that the tips outlined in this article can help you cross the dissertation finish line without flying past the deadline.

Author Bio: Anna is Marketing Manager for online essay writing service 15 Writers. She is an expert in digital marketing and enjoys writing articles on Business, Marketing and Technology.

SEE ALSO: Dissertation Writing Techniques for College Students