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ChatGPT: The Future of Education

ChatGPT: The Future of Education?

Recent years have seen a remarkable revolution in the field of AI, transforming the way we live and work. This article explores AI’s current capabilities, potential future developments, opportunities, challenges, and implications for society.

Like other sections of AI, large language models such as ChatGPT are increasingly being integrated into our daily lives and work. They have the potential to revolutionize communication, improve efficiency, and drive progress and innovation in various industries.

It is therefore crucial to understand the capabilities and potential future developments of Chat GPT, especially in the education sector where it has already shown rapid impacts. 

In this article Shariful is a tech enthusiast and CEO at AppleGadgets LTD  has explored the opportunities, challenges, and implications of Chat GPT’s integration into society, highlighting its potential to reshape how we learn.

What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is an advanced conversational AI developed by OpenAI. It is based on the GPT-3.5 architecture, which stands for “Generative Pre-trained Transformer 3.5.” GPT-3.5 is a deep learning model that has been trained on a wide range of internet text to understand and generate human-like responses.

ChatGPT is designed to engage in natural language conversations with users, providing relevant and coherent responses based on the input it receives. It can be used for a variety of applications, including answering questions, providing explanations, assisting with tasks, and generating text in a conversational manner.

While ChatGPT is a powerful language model, it’s important to note that it has limitations. It may occasionally produce incorrect or nonsensical answers, and it does not possess real-world knowledge beyond what it has been trained on.

How to Work ChatGPT

To work with ChatGPT, you typically interact with it using an API provided by OpenAI. Here’s a general outline of the steps involved:

Obtain API access: Visit the OpenAI website and sign up for an API key if you haven’t already. This will give you the necessary credentials to access the ChatGPT API.

Set up your development environment: Depending on your programming language of choice, you’ll need to set up your development environment and install any required libraries or dependencies.

Make API requests: Use your preferred programming language to make API requests to the ChatGPT API endpoint. You’ll send a prompt or question as input and receive a response from the model.

Format your input: Prepare your input in a way that the model can understand. Typically, you send a dictionary object to the API with a “prompt” key containing your text. You can also customize the model’s behavior by adding a “temperature” parameter to control the randomness of the generated responses.

Send the API request: Send a POST request to the ChatGPT API endpoint with your input data. Include your API key in the request headers for authentication.

Process the response: Receive the response from the API, which will contain the generated text from ChatGPT. Extract the relevant information from the response and handle it according to your application’s requirements.

Iterate and refine: Review the generated response and continue the conversation by providing the model with additional prompts or questions. You can engage in a back-and-forth dialogue with the model by sending multiple requests in a conversational manner.

It’s important to keep in mind that the specifics of working with ChatGPT can vary based on the programming language or framework you’re using. 

OpenAI provides detailed documentation and example code in several programming languages to help you get started. You can refer to the OpenAI API documentation and developer resources for more detailed instructions and examples.

Its Impact on Society

ChatGPT is an advanced language model developed by OpenAI, designed to generate human-like responses to textual prompts and engage in conversations with people. 

Based on the GPT architecture, it has a vast repository of knowledge and can answer a wide range of questions, making it a highly versatile and efficient AI tool. Its capabilities have the potential to revolutionize the way we learn, work, and interact with technology. 

The impact of artificial intelligence on various industries is becoming increasingly significant, and ChatGPT is no exception. Its capabilities have the potential to revolutionize the way we learn, work, and interact with technology. 

In education, ChatGPT is being used to personalize learning and provide students with a more individualized approach to education. Its ability to analyze student performance and provide feedback is also transforming the way assessments are conducted.

ChatGPT in Education: Is it Impactful?

At present in education technology, contributing, ChatGPT is playing a crucial role in revolutionizing education by providing personalized learning experiences. It can assist in language learning by conversing with students in real-time, and providing immediate feedback and corrections. 

ChatGPT can also be used for tutoring, providing students with explanations and insights into complex concepts, and answering questions.

Additionally, it can be employed for grading, reducing the workload for educators and increasing the consistency and accuracy of assessments.

Advantages of ChatGPT in Education System

  • By providing personalized learning experiences, it can cater to the unique needs and abilities of each student, leading to improved learning outcomes. 
  • It can also increase accessibility to education for students who may face barriers to learning, such as those with disabilities or those in remote areas.
  • ChatGPT can enhance the efficiency of education, freeing up time for educators to focus on more critical tasks and reducing administrative burdens.

Moreover, ChatGPT can adapt to different learning styles and paces, catering to individual needs and promoting inclusive education. 

By providing access to a wide range of information and resources, ChatGPT empowers students to explore and delve deeper into various subjects, expanding their knowledge horizons. Through its innovative integration in the classroom, ChatGPT exemplifies how technology can positively impact student learning, equipping them with the skills necessary for the ever-evolving digital era.

ChatGPT has immense potential to transform education and provide students with more effective and efficient learning experiences. 

Its role in personalized learning, language learning, tutoring, and grading can lead to significant improvements in student outcomes, accessibility, and efficiency in the education sector.

Ethical Concerns and the Future of ChatGPT

Just like any other technology, ChatGPT brings up ethical concerns that need to be carefully examined and dealt with. One significant concern is bias, as the model’s responses are based on the data it is trained on, which may contain biases or perpetuate stereotypes. 

Privacy is another concern, as ChatGPT conversations may contain sensitive or personal information. It is essential to ensure that ChatGPT is developed and implemented in a way that is ethical, transparent, and respects users’ privacy

Despite these concerns, the future of ChatGPT is promising. Ongoing research and development are likely to lead to improvements in the model’s capabilities, including increased accuracy, better handling of biases, and more natural-sounding responses. 

ChatGPT could also be used to generate more human-like responses in other AI applications, such as virtual assistants, making them more effective and engaging.

Responsible implementation of ChatGPT in various industries is crucial to avoid unintended consequences or negative impacts. 

Developers and organizations must prioritize ethical considerations, ensure transparency and accountability, and regularly monitor and evaluate ChatGPT’s impact on users. It is also essential to educate users about ChatGPT’s limitations and ensure they understand the nature of their interactions with the AI system.

Conclusion

The recent revolution in the field of AI, particularly the advancements in large language models like Chat GPT, has significantly impacted various aspects of our lives. 

With the potential to revolutionize communication, enhance productivity, and drive innovation in education, Chat GPT has become a critical tool in modern society.

However, it is also essential to acknowledge the ethical concerns and ensure responsible implementation. As we move forward, it is crucial to understand the current capabilities and potential future developments of AI and Chat GPT to fully leverage their benefits and mitigate any potential drawbacks. 

Ultimately, the integration of AI and Chat GPT into our daily lives holds immense potential to create a better and more efficient world, but it must be done thoughtfully and ethically.

SEE ALSO: How Does Technology Impact Student Learning?

eLearning for Career Development: How Online Education Can Boost Your Career Prospects

eLearning for Career Development: How Online Education Can Boost Your Career Prospects

In the contemporary business environment, professionals across various industries realise the critical importance of continuous learning and career development. As the job market undergoes rapid and constant change, traditional approaches to education and training have evolved to keep up with the times. Amidst this dynamic landscape, eLearning has emerged as an increasingly attractive solution.

eLearning’s rich history dates back to the 1960s when educational institutions started experimenting with computer-based training. In the 1990s, the Internet became more accessible, and online learning platforms began to emerge. Since then, eLearning has rapidly evolved, and today, it’s a $250.8 billion industry expected to grow to $457.8 billion by 2026.

For good reason, eLearning for career development has gained traction in recent years. According to a recent study by LinkedIn, 83% of professionals believe that learning new skills is essential to advance their careers. Furthermore, the study found that companies that offer eLearning opportunities have a 33% higher employee retention rate.

In this article, we will discover the meaning and benefits of eLearning for career development. We will delve into the numerous ways it can boost your career prospects and also tackle the various challenges of eLearning.

What is E-Learning?

E-learning, first mentioned in 1999 at a CBT(computer-based training) conference, refers to a modern educational system that leverages digital technologies. This type of study provides learners with easy access to an educational tool such as an ebook, online lecture, or video editor through electronic media such as the Internet and smartphones.

Online education is an innovative approach to learning that has transformed the traditional classroom setup into a dynamic learning environment accessible remotely. It has opened up new opportunities for collaborative learning and global knowledge sharing. E-learning, including the availability of business courses online, is undoubtedly the future of education, and its potential for transforming how we learn and work is limitless.

How Online Education Can Boost Your Career Prospects

Upskilling and Reskilling

eLearning is an ideal way to develop or improve new skills. It allows you to access a broad range of courses from various institutions, and you can tailor your studies to meet your specific career goals. With many courses providing certification or accreditation, you can gain formal recognition for your achievements and demonstrate to employers that you have invested in your professional development.

Flexibility

Another significant benefit of online education is the flexibility it offers. You can study at a time and place that suits you, making it possible to balance your studies with work or other commitments. This flexibility can help you complete your studies more quickly and efficiently, as you can learn at your own pace and access course materials whenever needed.

Cost-effective

Online courses are often more affordable than traditional forms of education, making them accessible to a wider range of people. With no need to travel to campus, you can save on transport and accommodation costs. Additionally, many online courses and resources offer free options; thus, accessing web-based resources can avoid the cost of a textbook, audio editor or presentation maker.

Time-saving

Studying online can save you time, as you do not need to drive to campus or attend classes at set times. It can be especially beneficial if you have other responsibilities, such as work or caring for a family. You can structure your studies around your existing commitments and maximise your available time.

Career Advancement

Enrolling in online courses and watching educational and training videos can equip you with the necessary expertise and dedication to progress in your profession. You can showcase your competence and dedication by obtaining certifications or completing courses in your desired area of expertise. It can open up possibilities for career advancement, job transitions, and greater earning prospects.

Networking

Studying online can also allow you to network with other professionals in your field. Online discussion forums, group projects, and social media groups can help you to connect with like-minded individuals and develop new relationships. These connections can be valuable for sharing learnings, gaining insight into industry trends, and exploring new job opportunities.

Specialisation

Online learning can allow you to specialise in a particular field area, helping you stand out from the crowd. It can be particularly useful in competitive industries where employers seek candidates with specific experience. You can become a sought-after specialist by focusing your studies on a niche area.

Improved Communication Skills

Online education can help you to develop your communication skills, which are essential in many careers. Participating in online discussions, collaborating on group projects, and receiving instructor feedback can help you improve your written and verbal communication abilities. These skills are valuable in many industries and can make you a more effective communicator in the workplace.

Career Transition

eLearning can also be an effective way to transition to a new career. By studying courses or qualifications in a different field, you can gain the learnings and skills you need to make a successful career change. It can be particularly valuable if you are looking to move into a field with a high worker demand or explore new career opportunities.

Access to New Markets

Lastly, online education can allow you to enter new markets and industries. Learning languages, cultural studies, or international business can equip you with the tools and understanding required to operate within a worldwide marketplace. It can be particularly beneficial if you aspire to work for multinational corporations or to broaden your business into unfamiliar regions.

Challenges with eLearning

Less Social Interactions

One of the most common challenges of eLearning is the lack of face-to-face interaction. Traditional classroom settings allow learners to ask questions, clarify concepts, and receive immediate feedback. Online courses, on the other hand, can be isolating, and learners may not have the same level of interaction with their instructors or peers.

Self-discipline is Required

Another challenge of eLearning is the need for self-discipline. Learners must be motivated and committed to completing their studies, as there are often no strict deadlines or accountability measures. It can be particularly challenging for individuals who struggle with time management or procrastination.

Conclusion

eLearning for career development has emerged as an effective way for individuals to enhance their professional skills, gain new knowledge, and stay current with the latest field trends. This innovative approach to learning has transformed the traditional classroom setup into a dynamic and flexible learning environment that can be accessed from anywhere in the world.

Online education provides students with the flexibility and convenience to schedule their studies around their busy lives, choose their own learning pace and style, and review course materials and lectures as often as necessary. Accreditation and certification are essential components of e-learning for career development, giving students a competitive edge in the job market and opportunities for career advancement.

However, eLearning also presents challenges, including the lack of face-to-face interaction. Nonetheless, with its wide range of course selections and improved job performance and career advancement, eLearning offers vast benefits to individuals looking to boost their career prospects.

SEE ALSO: How Does Technology Impact Student Learning?

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the United States

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the United States

As the COVID-19 pandemic hits USA, we are all wondering how it is affecting the U.S. economy. There are several factors at play here, such as the impact on women, industrial sector and agriculture. In this article, we will explore some of the key issues surrounding this pandemic. The impacts of this disease are discussed, as well as the possible ways to reduce its impact and also examine how COVID-19 is affecting the women’s sector in U.S.

Economy

The pandemic caused unprecedented loss and disruption worldwide; no country was spared. Impacts are evaluated across three sectors: health, poverty, and the informal sector. COVID-19’s disproportionate effect on each sector is a cause for concern. The occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic has triggered panic among investors, who feared that their startups would be unable to get financing.

CNBC posts the largest drop in its history, falling upwards of 12% during the coronavirus lockdown. However, the news that the country’s stock markets have posted their biggest gains in 11 years comes as a welcome surprise, as stock market indexes report a gain of over $1.5 trillion.

While the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the U.S. economy is unlikely to be as severe as the one that occurred in 2009, the financial sector may be more heavily hit than any other. In times of crisis, banks often provide a crucial service to consumers. The pandemic is expected to impact the financial sector hard, and problems will multiply. Further, this pandemic may also have a negative effect on the stock market.

In addition to the economic and health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, the virus has wreaked havoc on the young population. Currently, young people are overrepresented in informal work, and are therefore at risk of long-term unemployment, which could affect their employment and earnings throughout their lives. According to the London School of Economics’ Centre for Economic Performance, the number of young people unemployed is disproportionately high in low-income states. With the working class receiving less than 2% of the benefits of the aforementioned $1.5 trillion.

While the economic impact of COVID-19 on the U.S. economy may be averted in the immediate term, it can come to stabilize if the appropriate measures are considered. However, government revenues will likely recover much slower than the GDP if the first wave of the virus recedes. Moreover, the economic damage will likely be greatest for the poorest households. The government may have to raise fiscal expenditure to help offset the loss.

Women

The impact of COVID-19 on women and the economy will be disproportionately severe, with those in poverty and marginalized groups suffering the worst consequences. Women are overrepresented in the industries that will be most affected by the virus, with forty-six percent of women employed in these sectors, compared to three-six percent of men. These sectors often feature informal employment, which is often characterized by poor pay and poor working conditions. Women also tend to be disadvantaged in the economic system, as they are not afforded the social protection and other benefits of formal employment.

Women in low-wage occupations will benefit from increased workplace flexibility. If schools remain open, these workers may be able to accept more lucrative positions, such as those that require traveling. However, since the economy of the U.S. is already fragile, the effect of COVID-19 on women’s employment could be devastating. Women may also see fewer promotions and bonuses due to less face-to-face time.

The COVID-19 epidemic is already having a devastating impact on women’s economic status. Previously, women performed 75% of the household and care work. This will only increase as the virus continues to spread. As a result, women will be forced to supervise home schooling and do other unpaid work. In addition, women will have to increase their work to keep the household running. This is a challenge for many women, especially those who are trying to balance work with household responsibilities.

In addition to the social effects of the disease, COVID-19 may also affect the supply chain for sexual and reproductive health commodities. In Latin America, for example, the “Zika crisis” impacted women’s access to sexual and reproductive health services, with informal networks controlling access to the commodities. These conditions may make the COVID-19 pandemic worse for women and increase the number of cases of domestic violence.

As a result of the rapidly spreading COVID-19, many non-profit organizations in the area are modifying their services. The European Family Justice Centre Alliance, which builds cross-sectoral co-operation and provides professional guidelines, has released guidelines on how health care services should be provided. While some service providers are shifting toward electronic delivery, it is important to note that this does not completely eliminate the problem of women feeling afraid to report abuse. Many abusers control women’s computers, and their ability to report violence is greatly diminished.

Industrial Sector

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted manufacturing firms in many developing and emerging economies. Small and medium-sized enterprises have been hit the hardest by the crisis, requiring longer periods of recovery. Over 70 percent of these firms are in the private sector. Several studies have been conducted to assess the impact of COVID-19 on the industrial sector. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the private sector is expected to be profound.

A recent study has examined the COVID-19 outbreak and its impact on the industrial sector. While the general impact is minimal, it does affect the production of a number of industries. One of the industries affected by the outbreak is the electronics industry, which is highly dependent on China for its components. In fact, 85% of the total value of smartphones and televisions comes from China. Consequently, China’s factories were closed after the outbreak.

The effects of the pandemic extend to downstream and upstream supply chains, which could lead to comprehensive economic losses. The development of the globalization of the economy and trade liberalization has also increased mutual dependency among countries. As a result, national security incidents can disrupt trade and interrupt connections. In these instances, the overall economic damage of the COVID-19 pandemic could be greater than the original value. This article explores this issue further.

The COVID-19 pandemic disaster is likely to affect all aspects of the domestic economy, including production and consumption. While most of the country’s cities have been sealed off, less demand for public transport is expected to drop. Most domestic travel plans have been cancelled, and flights have been cancelled in many countries. Because of the public’s fear of the disease, the disaster’s impact on the service sectors is significant. Tourism, wholesale and retail trade, accommodation and catering sectors, and labor employment will suffer short-term losses.

During the initial phases of the pandemic, UNIDO began conducting rapid assessment surveys in several Asian countries. The UNIDO field offices produced a series of assessment reports. The rapid assessment surveys were accompanied by technical assistance from UNIDO’s PRS Department. These assessments have been used as benchmarks in analyzing the impact of COVID-19 on China’s economy. These rapid assessments also identified gaps and opportunities.

Education

In recent decades, specifically in 2020, it has been observed that educational officials have been forced to cancel the educational classes in the institutions due to pandemic. It has been witnessed that the students were not allowed to take classes due to pandemic and shut own of the educational institutions that’s why they were forced to take online classes. In this manner, they need access to various websites from which they could seek out education relating to their courses. Therefore, there is a platform such as assignment help UK where the students could take online classes and could be assisted in the academic writing.

It has been observed that the most efficient tool in keeping the student’s retention is to facilitate them with the online courses. Universities and other educational institutions throughout the US and the UK have adjusted their programs so that the students could continue their classes smoothly.

An example of Stanford university has been outlined here where the instructors take whole week online class. While another example of Washington university has also been highlighted where the management has ban all the physical classes and shifted to online virtual classes.

Agriculture

The impact of COVID-19 on agriculture is primarily measured as an increase or decrease in crop yields, middlemen’s prices, or no change. Other important factors to be taken into account are anxiety levels and food accessibility, as well as market fluctuations and pest outbreaks. Agricultural outputs are expected to suffer a decline in most affected regions. In addition, farmers in drought-prone areas may face ongoing financial challenges.

The long-term impact of COVID-19 on agriculture is not yet clear. In the short-term, agricultural inputs are likely to become more expensive due to devalued currencies and higher logistics costs. Furthermore, reduced remittances from the affected countries will also make it difficult for farmers to purchase inputs. Port and inland logistics disruptions may also lead to higher prices, although the effects of these costs may be partially offset by lower fertilizer costs due to lower oil prices.

Food stocks have dwindled for a while in many countries. Many countries had difficulty finding labor to help process agricultural products, as many steps of the production process require human resources. Furthermore, firms were forced to take extra precautions to avoid spreading the coronavirus to other workers. Without labor, food production was affected and food prices went up. The impact of COVID-19 on agriculture is expected to be substantial.

The COVID-19 impact on agriculture also highlights challenges of the agricultural sector in meeting the rising demands for food. With disease outbreaks and rising costs, factors such as food security, nutrition, and sustainability have become paramount. Thus, increasing crop production capacity has become one of the top priorities. Eco-friendly fertilizers may increase crop productivity, but they are expensive and may take months to reach the market. Agro- technological solutions that use artificial intelligence to predict crop yields are also explored.

The impact of COVID-19 on agriculture is largely dependent on the duration of the lockdown. A prolonged lockdown could cause a deeper economic crisis. Agricultural-based economies were negatively impacted at all stages of the supply chain. Lack of access to selling points and increased transport costs were major concerns for farmers. Furthermore, non-availability of farm inputs compounded the farmer’s distress. This impact on farming productivity and income will continue to be felt for several years to come.

SEE ALSO: The Significance of the U.S. Abortion Ruling

Tips For Acing Your Final Exams

Tips for Acing Your Final Exams

If exam anxiety creeps up on you every finals week, or you simply can’t stand taking exams, you aren’t alone. Final exam week is stressful, to say the least.

Of course, your GPA and sanity depend on a high grade, but acing exams isn’t necessarily your thing. So, now your new obsession is optimizing your study habits because this exam will be different.

Studying effectively for final exams seems to be easier said than done. Luckily, we’ve got you covered with practical advice on how to get the most out of your study sessions and, in turn, do well on your exams.

Designate a Study Space

Our first tip for acing your final exam is to designate a study space. If you can study in your bed and actually get something out of it, kudos to you. Most of us can’t do it because it sends mixed signals to our brain, and our bodies don’t know if we should be sleeping or doing.

You can make things clearer for your mind and body by designating a study space that encourages you to focus on learning and studying productively. Consider the following when designing your study area:

  • Access to high-speed internet
  • Comfortable furniture
  • A sturdy desk or table
  • Lighting
  • Temperature
  • Accessories and Artwork
  • Music

Create a Study Schedule

Don’t just wing it when it comes to studying. That’s how all-nighters happen, and we can honestly say cramming the night before an exam won’t get you favorable test results. Instead, create a study schedule to ensure you’re giving yourself ample time to study.

Implementing a study schedule all year is ideal, but you should give yourself at least a couple of weeks minimum to study before your exam. Choose blocks of time to study each day. Be sure to take frequent breaks during your sessions to give your mind time to refresh and reset before diving back in.

Organize Your Notes

You’ve learned a lot come the end of a quarter or semester. You likely have more notes and notebooks than you know what to do with, but all of the information in them is crucial to keep. When it’s time for your final exam, it’s a good idea to take some time to organize your notes.

You can loosely organize your notes or use something more structured like a mind map. Converting your notes into mind maps can help you better understand complex information because it’s visually presented to you, easy to review, and manageable.

Once your notes are organized, you can review them against the study guide provided by your professor. Or, you can create a study guide of your own based on your notes and begin studying that way.

Prioritize Sleep and Nutrition

It might be tempting to pull all-nighters and survive on snacks during finals week, but do everything you can to avoid both. You must get a good night’s rest, not just the night before your exam, but every night in the weeks leading up to it. You should also pay special attention to how you’re fueling your body.

Do your best to get 6-8 hours of sleep each night and eat healthily throughout each day. When you’re well-rested and well-fed, you’re mind, body, and spirit will remain in tip-top shape, making it easier for you to study.

Get a Study Buddy

If you study better alone, no problem. However, don’t feel bad if you need someone beside you to get the most out of studying.

Reach out to your classmates and see if they’re interested in forming a study group. You can meet in person or virtually. Just be sure everyone in the group is on board with when you’re going to meet and what you will study in each particular session.

You can also study with friends who aren’t in the same classes as you. Sometimes just being around other students who understand what you’re going through is enough to keep you motivated and uplifted during this stressful time.

Enlist the Help of Your Professors

Not enough students do it, but enlisting the help of your professors when studying for your final exams is wise. Although it may seem like your professors are the enemy at times, they’re there to help you and want to see you succeed. Don’t feel like you have to do this alone.

Take full advantage of office hours. You’d be surprised how many professors are longing for just one student to visit them when their doors are open. You’d also be surprised at how helpful and memorable office hour sessions can be.

So, compile your most pressing questions and head to your professor’s office to get them all hashed out so that you’re thoroughly prepared for your final exam.

Conclusion

Final exams are no joke. Just thinking about them can trigger anxiety, and the next thing you know, you’re talking yourself out of even showing up. But this doesn’t have to be you. Instead, implement the tips above to have the best chance at acing your final exam.

SEE ALSO: How to Become a Straight-A Student Without Spending All Your Time Studying

What is the US Education System?

What is the U.S. Education System?

The US higher education system is considered one of the best in the world, and offers flexible study opportunities at over 4,000 colleges and universities. US degrees are recognized worldwide for their academic excellence and enhanced learning experiences. Below we have detailed a few key aspects of the US education system that you will want to consider as an international student/

Types of Higher Education Institutes in the USA

State School/college/University

The US comprises 50 states, each state has at least one university or college that provides quality higher education to students at low rates. These universities are funded by the respective state governments and are usually equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. E.g. The University of California or Texas A&M University. Different schools have different selection criteria and students need to have a certain minimum percentage for admission to their colleges.

Private university/college

These institutions are run privately and are considered costly as compared to state schools.

Community Colleges

Community colleges offer two-year certifications or associate degrees which are transferable. Generally, Community college graduates transfer to universities or four-year colleges in order to complete their degree. They are allowed to transfer the credits which they have earned in the community college. Community colleges offer ESL (English as a Second Language) courses or other programs which prepare students for studying university-level courses.

Technology Institutes

These are the institutes that provide four-year courses related to science and technology.

Liberal Arts College

Students pursuing a liberal arts degree focus on a subject of their choice, a ‘major’ but they are also required to take ‘General Education’ courses in almost all of the other subjects offered. Liberal arts schools usually offer one expansive area of study whereas universities offer the same major in two or more degree areas. A student can major in Mathematics but can still choose an engineering career.

Grading

At U.S. colleges and universities, grades are given on a universal letter system of A through F; a student’s cumulative grade is indicated as a grade-point average, or GPA, which is measured on a scale from 0.0 (F) to 4.0 (A).

Majors, Minors and Concentrations

Another feature of the American education system is that universities emphasize breadth, which means students can take a wide range of courses and typically have nearly two years to decide on a major or choose a double major, a minor or concentration.

Experts encourage having a road map of classes to ensure prerequisite requirements are met to graduate in four years. Students should be aware that some schools have had to cut majors and minors due to the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic on American higher education, experts say.

Assignments, Midterms and Finals

Prospective international students should be prepared for continuous assessment at U.S. universities as well as regular homework, such as reading and writing assignments.

Many international students are already accustomed to taking multiple quizzes and exams in order to regurgitate memorized material. Therefore, they often have to adjust to showing subject matter and skill mastery at the higher levels through other means – research papers, individual projects, group projects, capstone projects, and research.

Another area of adjustment for international students is that courses typically include discussions, class participation and oral presentations, as well as midterm and final exams that make up only a percentage of a student’s grade.

Extra Credit

In the American education system, some university professors may offer extra credit during a class; this is where students can participate in extra lectures, write papers or take quizzes, for example, for extra points to improve their overall grade.

English requirements

No matter where or what you study, degrees in the United States are almost exclusively taught in English, unless you’re studying another language. Therefore, strong English-language skills are highly recommended. If you’re not a native English speaker, you may also be required to prove your proficiency through a standardized test. That being said, studying abroad in the United States is a great chance to improve your English skills which will be helpful during your studies and when you’re looking for a job after graduation.

As for how you actually study, it is the same as in most countries. It is a mix of lectures, readings and independent study. If you are studying a practical subject, like engineering or microbiology, then you will also spend time in a lab or workshop.

SEE ALSO: Preparation for your stay in the U.S.

Financing Your Education

With the cost of college education within the United States rising each year, many students have found it a struggle to manage to fund their academic studies. However, there are various ways in which students can get the money they need to finance their studies. We look at the source’s you can delve into as a means of financing your education.

Scholarships

There are a number of different scholarship opportunities online that provide aid for international students. Two examples include International Education Financial Aid (IEFA) and International Scholarships. The IEFA can provide financial aid and college scholarships to international students planning to study abroad in the U.S. and across the world. Similarly, International Scholarships issue a number of scholarships, grants and loan programs to assist college students financially during their time studying abroad. There are thousands of scholarships that are given out, but it is important to take your time regarding your application, making sure that it has the best chance possible for obtaining a scholarship.

There are also colleges across the U.S that provide sports-related scholarships to those who are exceptionally talented at a certain sport. Whether that would be American Football or track & field, if you believe that you have the talent, if would do you no harm to explore that avenue as well.

Because these scholarships to not have to be repaid, this would make a big difference to your student budget and be an extremely useful way in financing your education.

Home Country

In certain cases, your home country could provide financial aid to those studying abroad. The government or organizations could be willing to help financing your education. One nation which has showed willingness is Saudi Arabia. The middle eastern country previously launched a program that delivered full scholarships to approximately 10,000 Saudi students wishing to study in the United States. Therefore, before you journey to the U.S., make sure that you have done enough research regarding any possible scholarship or other funding schemes for students studying abroad.

Global Organizations

There are a number of organizations worldwide that provide aid to students across the world. These organizations include:

Most of organizations listed oblige you to be in your nation when to apply for one of their schemes so it is important to plan ahead as the schemes are extremely competitive.

U.S. Universities

There is a wealth of colleges in the United States that offer financial aid packages to international students to help them finance their education. Most colleges have either need-based or merit-based financial aid packages, and this can come in various forms.

To see which colleges, offer these types of packages, visit the International Student website. It is worth noting however, there is much less money available for undergraduate study compared to graduate study in the U.S. As well as providing financial aid, institutions can also reduce tuition costs for students. Public institutions rarely provide you with this option, but it is more commonly offered by private institutions. Therefore, it will do you no harm in checking if the institution you are keen on would be willing to finance your education.

Family

Family is the biggest source of income for international students. A study by the Institute of International Education has illustrated that almost 65% of international students in the United States were funded by their relatives. It can be competitive when it comes to international student funding so consulting your family is more of a safer option to explore. However, always make sure you ask politely!

International Student Loans

Despite international students not being eligible for U.S. government backed loans, they are eligible for private international student loans to study in the country. However, there are specific requirements you will be to meet such as attending a school which is approved. As long as this is the case, there will be a number of lenders willing to work with you to help finance your education. If you have decided to apply for a loan, you need to make sure that you keep in mind the amount of debt you will be taking on. Only borrow the amount you need that will cover tuition fees and living costs. The application process is relatively easy. It can be done online with approval only taking a few days. You do not need to apply for a student loan before the start of the academic year making it a viable option for financial aid.

Employment

Employment is a practical way of earning quick and relatively easy money however, it is only a valid option depending on your immigration status. Those with F-1 and J-1 visas do have the option to look for part-time employment to help boost their financial situation. There are a number of roles available that you could find useful and enjoyable alongside your studies. Jobs such as working at the local coffee shop or grocery store could be available and if so, it may be worth it in the long run. There will also most likely be job opportunities on campus which you could get stuck in with. However, do not expect these types of part-time roles to fully fund your studies. Think of the money you will be receiving as a small but useful addition to your bank account.

Money is certainly one of the most important things in life, especially for students. That is you need to make sure you have planned what you need to do and who to ask when financing your education. You do not want to be stressing about money when you should be reading for your studies!

SEE ALSO: What are the Ivy League Schools?

Neuro-Stack: Drug-Free Anxiety & Depression Relief Through Nature

Many Herbal Extracts Calm Nerves Better than Drugs and have POSITIVE side effects.

You are dependent on your ability to calmly focus and recall information quickly and there are many natural, plant-based, powerfully effective options available to help you do so. The extensively studied and expertly cultivated ingredients in Neuro-Stack improve your memory, focus, and clarity, as well as the overall health of your brain without the side effects that pharmaceuticals can cause.

Taking pharmaceutical drugs for anxiety, depression, or stress is hard for the rest of the body. We develop a dependence and tolerance to these drugs, so we need more to get the same effect. We risk becoming seriously addicted. According to Dr. Edward Group, who has a background in chemistry and biochemistry, when you stop taking pharmaceuticals your anxiety/depression returns far worse than before.. His talk can be found at Akua Life on Facebook.

Instead of taking pharmaceutical drugs that can permanently damage your neurotransmitter balance and cause a ton of other side effects like stomach cramps, weight gain, and even worse anxiety, choose a natural, plant-based earth medicine that works with your body.

Why choose Neuro-Stack?

Neuro-Stack, our targeted nootropic herbal blend, works to reduce anxiety physically and chemically.  Meaning, it helps your brain create a more relaxed and focused balance of neurotransmitters so you can learn new information effortlessly and recall it more easily even in stressful situations, like finals.  It also helps to create new brain cells and new neuron connections to allow you to improve your problem-solving abilities and understand your major subjects more intuitively. Being stressed out is no joke, and a majority of students report that they’re so strung out they’re practically numb.  This isn’t healthy!  Not only does this limit your ability to enjoy life, but it limits your performance in the classroom leading to lower grades and fewer potential job offers.

The drugs that are used for the anxiety you feel in school often make the feeling of numbness worse.  Neuro-Stack works differentlyto enhance brain function with clinically tested ingredients that will have you performing at the top of your game. You’ll have no problem balancing all of your assignments and tests, and still have enough mental stamina for a social life.  The bonus is there aren’t any negative side effects. No rebound anxiety, no stomach cramps, just benefits.

The ingredients we use improve the health of your brain over time, which is something none of the pharmaceutical drugs can claim.  If you skip a dose or two, even for a couple of weeks during break, you’ll still be sharp when you get back to class. The 27 synergistically formulated nootropics in Neuro-Stack include nine patented ingredients to optimize the production of GABA, serotonin, and dopamine so you can remain clear-headed to keep pushing yourself forward. Boosting these neurotransmitters with the natural plant extracts found in Neuro-Stack can enhance your memory and settle your mind quickly so you can ace your finals effortlessly.

The function of neurotransmitters in regulating mood

If neurology isn’t your major, let’s get clear on what these neurotransmitters do. GABA is one of the primary compounds involved in how we feel anxiety. If we have too little of it, it is either because we aren’t producing it or we’re burning through it in stressful situations and as a result, we feel more and more anxiety until the feeling crushes us. It’s too large of a molecule to create through digestion, so we have to take things that will help us make more of it in our brains.

Serotonin and Dopamine are “happy chemicals,” and we need plenty of them to feel good.  Heck, we need plenty of them to feel just OK, and if you’re feeling less than OK it’s a sign you need to produce way more of them. The combination of these neurotransmitters allows you to reach flow state, where everything in your brain just clicks and life gets easier. They also boost motivation and decrease your tendency to procrastinate, so you’ll be able to study for stats and organic chemistry without crying first.

Our plant-based formula to keep and support your brain health

Our plant-based earth medicine formula includes 27 extracts that are standardized for purity and are of the highest quality available. Neuro-Stack even has nine patented Ingredients for optimum bioavailability. Three heavy hitting extracts of our 27 ingredients are Lion’s Mane Mushroom, Ashwagandha, and Bacopa Monnieri.Bacopa Monnieri was first found in ancient Ayurvedic texts thousands of years ago. It was recommended to devotees to help memorize long passages of religious text. Today it is used as a powerful memory booster and it is used to reduce anxiety, depression, and stress. Bacopa Monnieri is an adaptogen and helps prevent the chemical and physical effects of stress. Instead of just suppressing them like many modern antidepressants, Bacopa Monnieri calms your nervous system so you actually are less stressed. We offer a patented version of Bacopa Monnieri called Bacognize®

Ashwagandhais one of the most powerful herbs in Ayurvedic healing. Neuro-Stack’s has a patented version of Ashwagandha called Sensoril® and is 5x’s more potent.

Ashwagandha works just as well as some of the most potent drugs used to treat anxiety and depression. This ancient remedy has remarkable stress-relieving properties.  Ashwagandha can help to regenerate brain cells and assists in the generation of neural networks involved in learning.  This herb also reduces cortisol which is a hormone that makes us feel more stressed and promotes weight gain.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom is known as the Brain-Shroom for stimulating Nerve Growth Factor.  It enhances nerve regeneration, improves cognition functions, and relieves depression, anxiety, and stress.  It’s a powerhouse for improving focus and memory.  If you want to get the best performance from your brain, Lion’s Mane is essential to get into that creative, focused, calm state of flow.

The best part about Neuro-Stack’s formula is it repairs axons, dendrites, synapsis, and helps grows new ones too! The ingredients have been specially chosen to not only give an immediate effect but to improve the condition of the brain long term.

Use Discount code “StressFreeExams” at https://akualife.com/ for a $11.11 discount.

About Akua Life

Akua Life’s nine driving forces are love, quality, potency, results, helping people, health wellness, being eco-friendly, happy customers and making money. Similarly, their product neuro-stack’s abides by helping their customers remember more, feel happier and live healthier.

Many of their ingredients have a higher percentage of potency and a larger dose than other products on the market, alongside featuring Nine patented ingredients for maximum absorption and more bioavailable.Neuro-Stack even stimulates NGF – Nerve Growth Factor for enhanced nerve regeneration (you heal faster) and it can help relieve you of pain,

Start your journey to health and happiness at https://akualife.com/

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Welcome to Nootropics: Natural Brain Boosters

 

Applying for a Student Loan: Where Should You Begin?

As the cost to attend college keeps rising, so does the need for students to find ways to cover that cost. Savings, grants, and scholarships are often not enough to pay for college, leaving a student loan as one of the primary options to finance the education you want. As you consider student loans, It’s important to know that not all student loans are the same. Before you decide to jump in with student loans, you should consider all of your funding options including grants, scholarships and others.

Private student loans

Private loans, like the name implies, are provided by lenders like banks and credit unions, as opposed to federal student loans, which are funded by the federal government. While there are a lot of benefits to getting a federal student loan, there is a maximum limit of how much you can borrow. You should start by utilizing federal student loans if you can, but with the rising cost of college, federal loans may not be enough. Private student loans can help fill this gap.

Give me some credit

Federal loans don’t require a credit check, which means when you apply for one, you’ll get the same rate as every other student. When applying for a private student loan, your unique financial circumstances and credit history are taken into consideration, which can affect your approval odds and the interest rate offered if you are approved.  While having to pass a credit check may seem like a disadvantage, private loans commonly give you the option of having a cosigner. With the right cosigner, it could make a big difference in the rates you’re able to receive and may make it easier for you to acquire a private loan with a good rate. After you graduate, you may have the option to refinance your loans using your improved and established credit, which could offer you the benefit of a lower rate.

Shop around!

Where should you begin? Student lending platforms like LendKey can help you find a private student loan to cover your cost of college.

What’s the difference?

The rates and terms you may be able to get can vary drastically from one lender to another. Taking the time to shop around now could save you thousands of dollars in the future.

Federal students loans always have fixed interest rates, meaning your interest rate will be the same for as long as you have the loan.  With private student loans, you often have the option of choosing between fixed and variable rates.

There’s more to consider than just the interest rates. Will there be reliable customer service?  Will the lender also be the one to service the loan? LendKey services the loans that are originated on its platform, and LendKey’s US-based loan specialists are consistently praised for their friendliness, reliability, and how quickly they are able to respond to questions.

The loan with benefits

If a private student loan fits your needs, LendKey connects community banks and credit unions to students like you. Because LendKey partners with community banks and credit unions, these institutions prosper when their customers prosper, so they want you to succeed. Lendkey also streamlines the lending experience, making it easy to keep up with your loan. You can complete the entire process online, including reviewing your loan, applying, and making payments.

LendKey can also simplify repaying your existing student loans with student loan refinancing once you have graduated. If you have multiple loans already in place, you can combine them into one brand new loan, making it more convenient to keep up with. The greatest benefit  —  one loan means one interest rate, which could save you thousands in interest over the life of the loan.

When you work with LendKey and one of their partner lenders, you have a strong team behind you, helping make your dreams come true.

LendKey was founded in 2009 immediately following the Great Recession. Through partnerships with banks and credit unions, LendKey has helped more than 92,000 borrowers and disbursed more than $2.9 billion in loans.

For more information visit http://www.lendkey.com. 

See Also:

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Writing the Perfect Resume

Nootropics: Can They Make You Smarter?

Our modern lifestyles require us to retain more new information today than ever before, from rigorous exam preparation to big deadlines at work.

Dominating this fast-paced information-filled world is social media and its effect on cognitive health. Social networking platforms portray an elusive mirror of supposed perfection and happiness; however, excessive usage has cultivated multiple cognitive problems such as loneliness, depression and social anxiety.

In a study published by Psychology Today, findings demonstrated that real, direct social interaction was negatively linked to excess Twitter use in university students, with loneliness being the prime cause.

Nootropics to the rescue?

Nootropics, or “brain boosters,” work by increasing and decreasing the activity of brain chemicals. For example, GABA is a brain chemical responsible for reducing anxiety, whereas the neurotransmitter norepinephrine heightens adrenaline in humans.

Other neurotransmitters include serotonin that regulates anxiety and dopamine. A lack of dopamine can cause insomnia, fatigue, memory loss and abrupt mood swings. Moreover, chemical imbalances can be triggered by either too low or high glutamate levels, with the latter being a symptom of Alzheimer’s and the former creating cognitive problems, like ADHD in children.

Herbal Nootropics

Nootropics can come in herbal or synthetic forms. Herbal nootropics use the herb ashwagandha, which
was used historically in the holistic practice Ayurveda. The herb works to revitalize your mental performance by improving attention levels and reducing fatigue. A secondary benefit of ashwagandha is its potential to restore a mental harmony, therefore ideal for those who suffer from anxiety within social interactions. Native to South East Asia, mitragyna speciosa, which is commonly known as kratom, is another herbal nootropic. Adopted by tribal societies in South Eastern Asia to provide energy, stimulate hunger and treat wounds, Kratorm is now used as a cognitive stimulant to maximize productivity levels.

Synthetic Nootropics

Synthetic nootropics, available globally, are used to improve memory and concentration levels. Modafinil is one such example of a synthetic brain booster, available only through prescription to ensure its is the right and most effective type of treatment to meet the specific needs of a patients. Modafinil is also used to treat narcolepsy, the chronic brain disorder causing individuals to fall asleep at random.

Synthetic nootropics are also widely utilized to treat social and cognitive problems. The compound Phenibut is a derivative of GABA and was once embraced by the Soviet Union as a medicinal drug. Its properties allow
it to have a stress-reducing effect and improve the sleep quality of its users.

See Also:
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Provigil: “Viagra for the brain?”

Writing the Perfect Resume

Writing the perfect resume is one of the toughest parts of job-hunting, and also one of the most important. If the gruelling odds of success are making your job prospects seem as sad as your blank resume, don’t worry. Even if you have little or no work experience, knowing how to draw on relevant skills and a clearly set out resume will help you to sell yourself effectively. Here’s how to impress a recruiter in six seconds flat.

Resume Format

If your recent nightmares consist of being stared at by a blank page, there are plenty of resume templates available online that can help you get started. Remember to list your experience in reverse-chronological order and choose a format that plays to your strengths. If you have less work experience, you may want to feature your education first. If you’ve been exploring the industry during college, you could highlight a separate section about your relevant or professional experience.

Unfortunately, the design of your resume is important, too—hiring managers may have to read thousands of applications and they won’t appreciate the extra work if your information isn’t clearly set out on the page.

Design rules:

  • Aim for one page, but if you have information that is highly relevant, add a page instead of compromising on a clear layout.
  • Choose an easy-to-read font and keep this consistent.
  • On average, hiring managers spend just six seconds considering a resume before deciding whether to dismiss it.
  • Use a variation of font sizes (make headers and your name larger).
  • When choosing a font size, many resumes follow a 24, 12, 10 format—the name is 24pt, the body headers are 12pt, and the bullet points are 10pt.
  • Create white space by breaking up text with paragraphs or lines.
  • Never set margins below .5—if you lack experience, stick to one inch margins.
  • Focus on readability

Profile summary

Including a brief profile summary or statement at the top of your resume can be a great way to attract attention and show the employer, at a glance, why you’re qualified for the job.

E.g. “Self-motivated and adaptable business graduate with proven experience in business, marketing, sales and communication.”

Education

With entry-level applications, graduates benefit from emphasizing the education section on their resume. Include the names of institutions, their location, the date of graduation and your degree. Only include your GPA if it is above average. You may also wish to mention your thesis or the most relevant courses that you took.

Work experience

Yes, getting professional work experience whilst you study greatly helps to differentiate your application from your competitors’. If this isn’t you though, don’t panic—you may have more experience than you think. Part-time jobs, volunteer work, summer internships and college clubs will all work to embellish your resume. Include the company’s name, location, your title and the dates of employment (month and year). Use around three to five bullet points per experience to cover your main duties and achievements.

Additional sections

While education and experience are necessary to a resume, adding additional sections can help to strengthen it. Examples include: skills, interests, certificates, publications and languages.

Perhaps most important here is a skills section that features soft and hard skills. Soft skills include attention to detail, teamwork, critical thinking, etc. Hard skills include technical expertise, foreign languages and SEO knowledge. Don’t try and save time here—each resume should be tailored to the individual job ad. Don’t list all of your hobbies, unless they’re relevant—you’ll need things to discuss in the interview.

Tips to make your resume stand out!

Statistics are your best friends—exactly how many followers did you attract to social media pages? Even if a company doesn’t ask for a cover letter, you should almost always include one. Submit a separate document that highlights your strongest skills and qualifications or include it in the body of an email with your resume attached

Step-by-step resume checklist

  1. Decide on a resume template and make it readable.
  2. Make your contact information easy to find and use a professional email address.
  3. Write a brief profile summary that responds to what the company are looking for.
  4. Write your resume content—most relevant and most recent experience first.
  5. Check your skills clearly match those in the job ad.
  6. Check you use tailored keywords, quantification and action verbs

This article was originally published in the Spring 2019 of College News.

See also: Free Courses to Boost Your Skills Profile

Avoid These Interview Mistakes

Do You Need a College Degree to Be Successful?