Community building is an essential aspect of society, starting at a young age. One way to foster community building is through education, specifically by serving on school fundraiser committees. Fundraiser committees are not just about raising money; they serve as a platform for parents, teachers, and students to come together and work towards a common goal. Damiano Dipopolo discusses the power of serving on school fundraiser committees and how it can contribute to community building. It includes the various benefits of participating in these committees for individuals and the community.

The Role of Education in Community Building

Education is the cornerstone for acquiring knowledge, skills, and values crucial for personal growth and development. It empowers individuals and plays a pivotal role in community cohesion and resilience. Education fosters active participation and contribution to society’s betterment by equipping individuals with the requisite tools and resources.

Cultivating critical thinking skills is a significant facet of education that significantly influences community development. Within the educational framework, students are nurtured to think critically, evaluating information from various perspectives. This nurturing of critical thinking cultivates analytical skills and instills traits like open-mindedness, empathy, and an appreciation for community diversity. Moreover, education catalyzes civic engagement, inspiring individuals to address and resolve societal challenges within their localities proactively.

The Power of Serving on School Fundraiser Committees

In addition to the pivotal role of education in community building, actively participating in school fundraiser committees can significantly impact the formation of strong and resilient communities. These committees, typically comprising dedicated individuals from the school community, come together to plan and execute fundraising events and activities that support various educational programs and foster a sense of unity and shared purpose among participants.

By participating in these committees, individuals contribute to the financial well-being of their school and interact with a diverse group of community members. This interaction is a platform for forging meaningful relationships, exchanging ideas, and collaborating on initiatives that benefit the entire community. Furthermore, the collective effort towards a common objective cultivates essential skills and enhances the overall fabric of the community.

Impact on Students

Serving on school fundraiser committees significantly impacts students and forms their character and community ethos. By witnessing their parents, teachers, and other community members collaborate towards a shared objective, students are exposed to a powerful lesson in unity and collaboration, laying the foundation for strong community bonds. This experience instills in them the virtues of generosity and civic responsibility from a tender age.

Moreover, active participation in fundraising initiatives provides students with immersive learning experiences that go beyond textbooks. Students acquire practical skills in event coordination, financial planning, and marketing strategies by organizing events, managing budgets, and promoting campaigns. These hands-on experiences equip them with essential life skills and nurture qualities like leadership and effective communication, setting a solid groundwork for their academic and professional pursuits. The lessons learned will serve as invaluable assets, guiding them toward success in both personal and career endeavors.

How to Get Involved

There are ways to participate in school fundraiser committees. Parents can volunteer to join the committee, attend meetings regularly, actively contribute ideas during brainstorming sessions, and assist in meticulously planning and successfully executing various fundraising events. Similarly, teachers and school staff members are encouraged to offer their valuable time and expertise to enrich these committees with their unique perspectives and skills.

Moreover, community members are invited to partake in these initiatives by generously sponsoring events or donating goods and services for fundraising purposes. This bolsters the school’s financial resources and fosters community engagement and solidarity in supporting educational endeavors.

Final Thoughts

Education is essential for fostering strong communities, and actively participating in school fundraiser committees is a powerful way to contribute. By engaging in these initiatives, individuals form meaningful relationships, cultivate crucial skills, and instill important values in students. The impact of serving on school fundraiser committees extends beyond fundraising goals and plays a significant role in shaping individuals and communities for the better. So, it is essential to encourage more individuals to get involved in these committees and contribute to the education and community-building process.

Education

How to Become a Pharmacy Tech Online: Your Guide to Getting Certified From Home

February 15, 2024 Taylor

Benefits of Becoming a Pharmacy Technician

You’ve been thinking about starting a new career in healthcare, but aren’t sure where to begin. Becoming a pharmacy technician could be the perfect option, allowing you to help patients and work in the medical field without spending years in school. And now, you can train for this rewarding career all from the comfort of your home! In this article, you’ll discover the key steps to become a pharmacy tech online, preparing you to pass the PTCB exam and start a job in this growing field. We’ll walk through everything from choosing the right online training program to applying for jobs once you’re certified. Whether you want to work in a retail pharmacy or hospital setting, our guide will equip you with the knowledge needed to get started on this flexible and lucrative career path. So keep reading if you’re ready to begin your journey to becoming a certified pharmacy tech!

Steps to Become a Certified Pharmacy Tech Online

In-demand career

Pharmacy techs are in high demand. The job market for pharmacy technicians is growing much faster than average, so jobs are plentiful. With many pharmacies open 24 hours a day, pharmacy techs frequently have flexible schedules with good opportunities for full-time and part-time work.

Job security

Pharmacy technicians provide an important service within the healthcare industry. People will always need prescription medications, so the role of a pharmacy tech is very secure. This is a career path that is stable even during economic downturns.

Lucrative salary

Pharmacy techs earn a good salary, especially considering it only requires a high school diploma and on-the-job training. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for pharmacy technicians in the U.S. is over $33,000 per year. Actual salaries vary depending on factors like location, experience, certification, and level of responsibility.

Opportunity for career advancement

After gaining some experience, you can pursue additional certifications to open up more advanced job opportunities. Some pharmacy techs eventually move into supervisory roles overseeing other technicians. Others transition into related healthcare occupations like nursing, physician assisting or pharmacy. The skills and knowledge gained as a pharmacy technician provide a good foundation for career progression.

Becoming a pharmacy technician is a smart choice if you want a career that is growing, pays well, and provides stability. With the right certification and training, you’ll have the opportunity to launch an exciting new career helping others in the healthcare field.

Finding the Best Online Pharmacy Technician Programs

Enroll in an accredited program

The first step is to enroll in an accredited pharmacy technician program. Look for programs accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). Many community colleges, vocational schools, and online courses offer ASHP-accredited programs. These programs usually take 9 months to 2 years to complete and will teach you the necessary skills and knowledge to become certified.

Gain practical experience

While in your training program, try to gain practical experience through internships, externships or entry-level jobs at local pharmacies. Hands-on experience will help reinforce what you learn in the classroom and make you a stronger candidate. Some online programs may require a certain number of hours of practical training to complete the course.

Pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)

After completing your training, you need to pass a certification exam. The most widely recognized exam is the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) sponsored by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). The PTCE tests your knowledge and skills in areas like pharmacy law, medication safety, prescription entry, and billing procedures. You must pay an exam fee and pass with a score of at least 1400 to become certified.

Consider obtaining state licensure (if required)

Some states require pharmacy techs to be licensed or registered. Licensure requirements vary by state but usually involve passing an exam, background check, and paying a licensing fee. Check with your state board of pharmacy for the specific requirements. Licensure may allow for higher pay and more job opportunities.

Continue your education

Even after becoming certified, it’s important to keep your knowledge and skills up to date through continuing education. Most certifying bodies require a certain number of hours of CE every 2 years to maintain your certification. Stay up to date with the latest pharmacy software, medications, and regulations to provide the best care for your patients.

Education

Fast Track Your Diploma: How to Find Legitimate Online High Schools for Adults

December 20, 2023 Taylor

What Is Accreditation and Why Does It Matter for Online Schools?

So you’ve decided it’s time to finally earn that high school diploma. Congrats on taking this important step – you should be proud of your commitment to self-improvement. The tricky part now is finding the right program. There are dozens of online high schools out there, but not all are created equal. Some are accredited and high quality, setting you up for success, while others are shady diploma mills looking to take your money. How do you find reliable online high school diplomas for adults? This article will walk you through what to look for in a legitimate online high school, the key signs that a program is accredited and reputable, and how to avoid the scam schools. By the end, you’ll feel equipped to find an online high school that will provide you a real education and officially make you a high school graduate. Let’s get started!

How to Identify Quality Online High School Diploma Programs

When choosing an online high school, accreditation is one of the most important factors to consider. Accreditation means that the school meets high standards of quality and rigor according to an independent accrediting agency.

What exactly is accreditation?

Accreditation is a voluntary process where schools are evaluated by private accrediting organizations to ensure they meet certain standards of educational quality. Accredited schools have been vetted and proven to provide students with a learning experience that prepares them for college or careers.

Why does accreditation matter?

There are a few key reasons why accreditation is so important:

•Credits and diplomas from accredited schools are recognized as valid. This means your hard work can actually lead to opportunities like college admission, scholarships, or career advancement.

•Accredited schools provide high-quality curriculum and instruction. They employ certified teachers, offer appropriately challenging coursework, and have the resources to support students.

•Financial aid is available. Only students at accredited schools can qualify for federal financial aid like grants, loans, and work-study programs.

•Transferring credits is easier. Credits earned at an accredited school are more likely to transfer to other institutions. This flexibility allows you to switch schools without starting over.

•Reputation and credibility. Accredited schools have proven their ability to provide students with a meaningful education. That credibility can benefit you long after you’ve graduated.

In summary, accreditation should be at the top of your list when evaluating online high schools. Choosing an accredited school will set you up for success and open more opportunities for your future. Look for schools accredited by agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Your education is worth investing in, so make sure any school you consider is properly accredited.

Top Accredited Online High Schools Offering Diplomas for Adults

Finding a legitimate online high school diploma program may seem tricky, but by looking for certain indicators of quality, you can feel confident in your choice.

First, make sure any program you consider is properly accredited. Accreditation means the school meets high standards for academics, administration, and student services. Check with an accrediting agency like AdvancED or Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. If a school isn’t accredited, your diploma may not be accepted by colleges or employers.

You’ll also want to consider the curriculum and course options. Look for programs offering a range of subjects at your level, whether remedial or advanced. The coursework should be engaging and challenging, preparing you well for college or a career.

Examine the school’s online learning platform and support services. A quality program will provide an easy-to-use platform, interactive materials, and options like live or recorded lectures. They should also offer academic counseling, tutoring, and resources to help you stay on track.

Finally, look into the school’s reputation and history. See what current or former students say about their experience. Consider how long the school has offered online programs. Established schools with a proven track record of success will give you the most value.

With some diligent research, you can find legitimate online high school options to earn your diploma. Put in the work now, and you’ll reap the rewards of your accredited education for years to come. Focus on accreditation, curriculum, support services, and reputation to find a high-quality program suited to your needs. Your future is worth it!

Education, Other

Champions in the Fight: How Non- Profits Are Combating Human Trafficking

December 20, 2023December 20, 2023 Taylor

The Mission to End Human Trafficking

You’ve probably heard about human trafficking in the news, but do you really know how widespread it is or what’s being done to stop it? Human trafficking is one of the worst humanitarian crises of our time, with millions of victims trapped in forced labor and the commercial sex trade. But there are heroes fighting this fight every day. Through innovative programs focused on combating human trafficking, NGO’s and other organizations like the McCain Institute are empowering survivors, training law enforcement, and pushing for stronger laws and policies to crack down on traffickers and protect victims. Their groundbreaking work is literally changing and saving lives. In this article, we’ll explore how non-profits are champions for freedom and making a real difference in the fight against human trafficking.

Key Initiatives and Programs

NGOs and nonprofits are leading the fight against human trafficking. Through key initiatives and programs, they work to combat this human rights abuse and support survivors.

Training and Awareness

The Institute provides training on trafficking prevention and victim support for law enforcement, social workers, and healthcare professionals across the U.S. and around the world. They also partner with schools and youth organizations to raise awareness about the dangers of human trafficking.

Survivor Support

A major focus is helping survivors heal and rebuild their lives. The Institute funds emergency shelters and long-term housing as well as healthcare, job training, and education for survivors. Their anti-trafficking hotline and survivor advocacy program offer crisis intervention and connect victims with critical services.

Research and Policy

The Institute conducts research on trafficking trends and effective interventions. They use data and real-world expertise to shape anti-trafficking policies and legislation. Partnerships with technology companies aim to disrupt online recruitment and identify victims faster.

Grants and Partnerships

The Institute provides grants and works with NGOs, governments and corporations to enhance the fight against human trafficking. Recent partners include major hotels and airlines training staff to spot signs of trafficking. Together, these public-private partnerships are making a difference and creating real change.

Through research, advocacy, training and victim services, they are champions leading the charge against this horrific human rights crime. Their initiatives are transforming lives, spreading awareness and making communities safer – all in the name of freedom and human dignity.

Partnering With Law Enforcement to Train and Equip Officers

You’ve now heard about these inspiring organizations leading the fight against human trafficking. They are true champions making a real difference through advocacy, intervention, and rehabilitation. Their innovative approaches and dedication to ending modern slavery should give us all hope that this human rights crisis can be solved.

While the statistics around trafficking remain staggering, the victories highlighted in this article prove progress is possible. Their high-level push for policy changes, brave rescue missions, and nationwide advocacy campaigns show that a multi-pronged attack is needed. Together, their life-changing work is reshaping lives and communities for the better.

Though the road ahead remains long, we can find solace knowing champions like these refuse to give up. Their steadfast commitment to combating human trafficking until all people can live freely gives us a model of the compassion and perseverance needed to drive real social change. By supporting and raising awareness of groups like these, each of us can play a role in helping end this devastating injustice once and for all. The fight continues, but the future looks brighter thanks to their resolve. Together, we can all be champions.

Business, Education

Admissions for Special Education Private Schools: Opening Doors of Opportunity

December 7, 2023 Taylor

The Admissions Process for Special Education Private Schools

So your child has special needs and you want the best education for them. Have you considered a private special education school? These schools can open up a world of opportunity for kids who don’t thrive in a typical classroom. At a private special ed school, your child will be surrounded by highly trained teachers and staff focused on helping them reach their full potential. Small class sizes and tailored learning plans ensure each student gets the attention and support they need. Let’s dive into the admissions for special education private schools.

While the admissions process can seem daunting, it’s designed to help find the right program and fit for your child. Be prepared to share information about your child’s needs, strengths, learning styles and goals. Visit schools and sit in on classes to get a feel for the environment and teaching approaches. Discuss options with the administrators and don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions.

The investment in a private special education can be significant, but the rewards are life-changing. Your child will develop confidence from learning and socializing in an supportive setting. They’ll gain skills and strategies to help them succeed in life beyond school. And you’ll gain peace of mind knowing your child’s needs are being met so they can thrive. Special ed schools open doors to a bright future.

Benefits of Attending a Special Education Private School

The admissions process for special education private schools can open doors of opportunity for your child. Many of these schools have rolling admissions, so you can apply at any time. However, it’s best to start the process early, ideally 6-18 months before your target start date.

To begin, schedule a visit to the schools you’re interested in. Meet with administrators and teachers, tour the facilities, and see if it’s the right fit and environment for your child’s needs. If so, fill out an application for admission, which typically involves providing:

1. Your child’s medical, educational, and psychological evaluations and diagnoses.

2. Copies of your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 plan.

3. Records of any therapies or interventions your child has received.

4. A statement of your child’s strengths, needs, and what you hope they will gain from attending the school.

The school will review your application and may schedule an interview or observation. They assess if they can properly accommodate your child’s requirements. If accepted, you’ll receive an offer of admission and go through the enrollment process to officially register your child as a student.

Special education schools aim to provide an open, caring environment where your child can learn and thrive. While the admissions process takes effort, it can lead to a place where your child’s needs come first and opportunities for growth become possible. With the right school, the sky’s the limit!

Finding the Right Fit: Questions to Ask During the Admissions Process

Attending a special education private school has some major benefits for your child.

– Customized support. Private schools design programs specific to your child’s needs. Smaller class sizes and higher teacher-student ratios mean more personalized attention and support.

– Qualified staff. Teachers at private special education schools have proper training, certifications and experience to help students with learning differences, behavioral issues or physical disabilities thrive. They use research-based, multi-sensory teaching methods suited for diverse learning styles.

– Life skills focus. The curriculum emphasizes important life and social skills to help set students up for success after graduation. Things like communication, organization, time management and more are built right into the program.

– Transition planning. Private schools provide transition planning and support to help students move on to college, vocational school or the working world. They build connections with local businesses, organizations and post-secondary schools to create opportunities for students.

– Safe, inclusive environment. Private special education schools foster an environment where students feel safe, accepted and able to learn without distractions. Strict anti-bullying policies and a culture of understanding and respect create the ideal place for students to thrive.

With smaller class sizes, highly-trained staff, life skills focus and transition planning, special education private schools can open up a world of opportunity for your child. The benefits of attending one of these schools are well worth exploring.

Education, Guest Post

Empowering Students As Advocates For Inclusive Education

November 8, 2023 Taylor

Ensuring everyone feels welcome and accepted is essential to fostering an environment where individuals can grow and thrive. This starts with education. The classroom should be a safe, inclusive space where students of all backgrounds feel empowered to learn and grow.

However, achieving inclusivity in the classroom requires more than setting up a few posters or having diverse representation in the curriculum. It requires a shift in mindset and a commitment to empowering students as advocates for inclusive education. In this blog post, Sunila Dang will discuss the importance of empowering students and provide practical tips for educators on how to do so.

Give Students A Seat At The Table

When creating an inclusive learning environment, students must have a say. After all, they are the ones who are directly impacted by the education system. This could mean involving students in school-wide committees or having classroom discussions about what inclusivity means to them. By giving students a voice, you allow them to take an active role in their own education and show them that their opinions matter.

Promote Diversity In The Curriculum

Representation matters, especially in education. For too long, traditional education has focused solely on the perspectives of one group of people. This narrow view fails to reflect the world’s diversity and also marginalizes students who are not part of the mainstream narrative. Bringing diverse perspectives into the curriculum is one of the easiest ways to make the classroom a more inclusive space.

This means including literature, history, and other subjects that explore the experiences of underrepresented groups. When students see their experiences reflected in the curriculum, they are more likely to feel a sense of belonging in the classroom.

Teach The Importance Of Empathy

Empathy is a crucial element of a productive learning environment. It is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, even if we don’t necessarily agree with them. Empathy can bridge the gap between different cultures, backgrounds, and viewpoints. It is important to teach students the value of empathy so that they can better connect with and understand their peers.

This includes educating students about systemic oppression and its effects on marginalized groups. When students understand the lived experiences of their peers, they are better equipped to respond to issues of injustice and discrimination.

Encourage Student-Led Initiatives

Inclusive education isn’t just about creating a safe space for students to learn; it’s also about empowering them to take action. Encouraging students to lead inclusive initiatives can help them cultivate leadership skills and work collaboratively towards a common goal.

This could mean starting a school-wide diversity club, organizing a fundraiser for a marginalized community, or advocating for more inclusive policies in the classroom. By taking on these responsibilities, students gain a sense of agency and learn how to create meaningful change.

Hold Schools Accountable

Creating an inclusive learning environment requires a systemic change. This means holding schools accountable for creating a welcoming space for all students. Schools should ensure that their staff is properly trained in cultural sensitivity. They should create feedback loops that allow students, teachers, and staff to provide input and have their voices heard. And they should prioritize creating inclusive policies at every level of the education system.

In addition to these practical steps, schools need to assess their progress toward inclusivity and make necessary adjustments regularly. This could mean conducting surveys or focus groups with students to gather feedback on the school’s inclusivity efforts. It’s also crucial for schools to actively address any instances of discrimination or bias that may occur within the learning environment.

Conclusion

Inclusive education isn’t just about having diverse representation in the classroom. It’s about creating a culture of inclusivity that empowers students to take an active role in their own education. By involving students in the process, promoting diversity in the curriculum, teaching empathy, encouraging student-led initiatives, and holding schools accountable, we can create a more inclusive learning environment for everyone. When we prioritize inclusivity in education, we create a brighter future for all students.

Education

How to Afford to Attend College During a Pandemic

April 13, 2021 Taylor

The circumstances of millions of people in the U.S. changed in march 2020, with the arrival of the COVID-19 virus. The pandemic forced many people to work remotely or reassess their position for the future. Career changes are prompting millions of Americans to enroll in college to gain a fresh start in life. Colleges have traditionally used tax returns from two years ago to judge financial aid eligibility, with this being out of date for many.

1. Apply for a Scholarship

Whether you are a rising high school graduate or an experienced professional returning to college, scholarships are available. The Nancy Etz Scholarship is an example of a financial windfall for those studying the arts. The Nancy Etz Scholarship provides $1,000 for those who are accepted following the completion of a short essay. If you are not studying an arts-based subject, you can find scholarships for most majors and personal circumstances.

2. Complete the FAFSA

College applicants often balk at the mention of the FAFSA. However, there is more financial aid available than most new students believe. Upon applying for financial aid using the FAFSA, the new student will have access to a range of funding from federal and private sources, depending on their needs. Northwestern Mutual explains college will not be aware you require financial assistance if you do not apply through the FAFSA website.

3. Find a Flexible Job

The pandemic has forced the shutters on many businesses to close for the final time. Returning to college will mean you require money to maintain your standard of living. For students who are serious about their studies, a job does not need to interfere with their college work. Earnest lists several jobs that are available for remote work during the pandemic, including:

Grocery deliveries
Online tutoring
Dog walking
Managing social media accounts

4. Appeal Your Financial Aid Package

The pandemic has robbed millions of people of their livelihoods and limited their earning potential. Your eligibility for financial aid will be different if based on your current circumstances, with an appeal taking into account your current situation. Students who have been affected by a layoff from work or bereavement due to COVID-19 can have their financial aid package recalculated.

5. Ask for Financial Assistance

Individual colleges have begun offering financial assistance to students who are struggling because of the pandemic. Students suffering severe financial hardship can defer their housing and tuition payments because of the pandemic. Several colleges and universities have advanced the student loan payments already approved to students to help them make ends meet.

6. Look for the Help of Not-For-Profits

The pandemic has made more people reliant on the help of others. Not-for-profit organizations have developed new programs designed to help students who have lost work and financial assistance from their family members. Programs include assistance with school expenses, food, housing, and equipment to enable distance learning.

At the outset of the pandemic, the new normal we are now experiencing was unimaginable. The passing of the first anniversary of the first lockdowns in the U.S. shows help is needed by students who are finding themselves in financial difficulties.

Education

How to Get Scholarships For College

February 24, 2020 Taylor

For many students, college is a major stepping stone to achieving the careers and lifestyle they want. Despite the benefits of attending college, college tuition and related expenses are a luxury a majority of students can’t afford. While many take on thousands of dollars worth of student loans just to get a degree, this isn’t the only option when it comes to finding funding for school.

Scholarships are an option for many students in need of funding for college. Consider the following guide on how to get a scholarship for college:

1. Search for Local Scholarships

While most students think of academic or athletic scholarships as their only options, local scholarships are some of the best ways to pay for college-related expenses. Organizations, clubs, benefactors, and small businesses in your community are all excellent options for scholarships as they have a less competitive selection process than more popular scholarships. Look for local scholarships in your community by searching online, visiting the websites of radio and television stations, and checking the social media
accounts of local businesses. Additionally, it’s a good idea to ask your guidance counselor and teachers, as well as recent graduates that previously qualified for local scholarships.

2. Apply for Smaller Scholarships

Though many students want to win scholarships with larger rewards, these are more competitive. While it’s a good idea to apply to as many scholarships as you can, it’s important to prioritize scholarships that offer smaller awards as they typically have fewer applicants. Though these scholarships provide less funding, they can still cover the costs of living expenses, books, and supplies.

3. Look for Scholarships with Longer Application Processes

During the process of applying for college, it makes sense to stick to scholarships that require the minimum amount of work. However, a simple application process makes it easier for more students to apply. College scholarship experts from Tech Live Connect recommend that students choose to apply to scholarships with lengthier application processes.

To illustrate, some applications require students to write 1,000-word essays and submit several letters of recommendation. While it may be aggravating to do all this leg work, your chances of earning such a scholarship are higher.

4. Find Unconventional Scholarships

Even though you’re applying for a scholarship to help you exceed academically, this doesn’t mean you have to search for overly academic scholarships. Tech Live Connect recommends getting personal in your scholarship application process. Consider your hobbies and interests and search for related scholarships. While there are many academic scholarships, there are also unconventional scholarships for everything under the sun.

Whatever your passion is, there’s a scholarship out there for you. Dig into what makes you unique and search for scholarships that fit the bill.

5. Use Best Essay Writing Practices

When writing your essay for your scholarship, avoid introducing yourself. Typically, scholarship committees have blind judging as they want to assess the student without any identifiers. In your application, write to engage your readers without going overboard with personal details.

Additionally, when writing an essay, it’s best to avoid repeating the prompt. Your essay should be as unique and interesting as possible to encourage the reader to keep reading. Consider starting the essay off by telling a story or jumping into the answer.

6. Meet the Requirements

The college application process can be grueling. With so many essays to write and scholarship opportunities to submit to, it can be tempting to do the bare minimum. However, if you want to improve your chances of getting a scholarship, you need to satisfy all of the requirements. Carefully read each scholarship’s stipulations and be sure your submission fulfills them.

Make sure you make the most of your studies without putting yourself into debt taking on student loans. With the help of various scholarships, you’ll be able to afford school and get the education you deserve

Education

Clay Advisors Shares How to Put Your Child Through College Without Either of You Racking Up Massive Debt

December 30, 2019 Taylor

Myth: Student loans are inevitable

With the tuition for most schools rising more than ever due to inflation, more and more college students are taking out at least a few loans to fund their education. When they do, they end up spending a good part of their lives paying them off. They live with a lot of consequences such as living paycheck to paycheck.

Why Loans Are Not Inevitable

We at Clay Advisors are here to assure you that there are other ways. Living and coming to the U.S. has long been about fulfilling dreams. Nothing should stop you from fulfilling yours. Below, we lost some ways that you can fulfill your dreams without having to turn yourself to you finances for the rest of your life.

Grants

Grants are funds that don’t need to be paid back. They are based on personal need. Some are also specific careers such as teaching or engineering. According to the last research, billions of dollars of grants go unclaimed every year so now is an ideal time to take advantage of them.

Scholarships

Scholarships no longer cover everything. But the good news is that you don’t have to have a perfect GPA to get one. You also don’t have to come from a low income family to get one. They can be awarded for just about anything.

Cash Awards

Cash awards are more common for upperclassmen. They are typically awarded from their associations or organizations. They can be awarded for any hobby or passion, such as horses or videogames. You can also earn them by volunteering.

You Can Make Money-Not a Full-Time Job

Working a full-time job while taking classes is very stressful because it gives you even less time to study. Luckily, there are ways around that. A work-study job on campus is the most popular. You can also drive for Uber, write for online publications, tutor, housesit, babysit, pet sit, host your place on Airbnb, or sell old belongings that you no longer have any use for.

Crowdfunding

GoFundMe is the most popular crowdfunding site. If you have family, friends, etc. who would like to pitch in, you can take advantage of it. However, check to see whether your platform takes a percentage of the donations and whether they’re taxable.

Get Used Textbooks if Possible

If you’re planning to keep your textbooks, used ones tend to cost a fraction of what the new ones do. However, if you’re taking a subject that is not within your interests, you might be better off renting those. That can be up to over 70 percent less than buying it.

Conclusion

While this is not an exhaustive list, we at Clay Advisors are here to assure you that it is possible to get through college debt-free. One thing that we encourage you to do is to start a college fund as early as possible. This can go for both the parents and the kids as parents can start saving as soon as the child is born. Then, unless the child does something like mow lawns or babysit, the child can get his or her first official job at the age of 16

Education

How to Create a Great Scholarship Essay

November 12, 2019 Taylor

Since scholarships usually have a lot of competition and entries, it’s extremely important to put together a great essay that will make you stand out. All scholarships, including the Hallie Gay Walden Bagley scholarship, are going to require you to write an essay of some sort. The subject matter might change, but you want to submit a great scholarship regardless. With that said, here are 5 tips to help you create a great scholarship essay!

Pick the Perfect Topic

To start, you want to make sure you pick the perfect topic. You should choose something that follows the guidelines of the essay, while also being something you’re passionate about. You want to make sure you know quite a bit about the topic, so you can write a great essay. The last thing you want is to pick a topic that you don’t know about just because it sounds good. The scholarship board will know whether or not you actually know what you’re talking about, so make sure you really do.

Follow Instructions

One of the easiest ways to be disqualified is by not following instructions. Before you even pick a topic and begin writing, read over the instructions a few times so you know exactly what you need to do. The scholarship board members will go through these instructions and make sure your essay matches exactly. If need be, write down the important parts of the instructions, so you can go back and double-check that everything has been met.

Readjust/Reuse

Another tip is to readjust or reuse your essays. Keep in mind, just because a scholarship, like the Hallie Gay Walden Bagley scholarship, has different instructions than another scholarship, that doesn’t mean that you can’t use the same structure for your essays. The best thing to do is save your essay and tweak it based on the instructions you need to follow. Not only will this save you a little bit of work, but you can also save some time. Some scholarships will have the same instructions, so you can use the same essay with little to no changes.

Don’t Ramble

It’s extremely important to ensure that you’re sticking with the topic and only writing things that’s going to help support it. While you should use real emotions and stories, you don’t want to start talking about something and go completely off topic. Not only does this look bad, but there’s a good chance you’ll get disqualified. To ensure you’re staying on topic, go over your essay to ensure everything is good.

Strong Finish

Finally, add a strong finish to your essay. There’s nothing worse than having a great essay that has a disappointing ending. You want to reiterate the things you said in your essay, while also bringing everything to a nice close. It might take a little practice, but you should keep trying until the ending is perfect!

These are only a handful of useful tips you can use to write a great scholarship essay, but they should give you a pretty good start. Remember, give yourself plenty of time to write and go over your essays. You might have to do this a few times, but you should do what you need to so you can have the best essay possible