tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32481697041069596802024-03-14T07:51:56.130-07:00Broke College GradLMGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06562477223564069988noreply@blogger.comBlogger8125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3248169704106959680.post-24384785277626644022011-05-31T08:13:00.000-07:002011-05-31T08:13:05.495-07:00Dear Graduates, My Letter to the Class of 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEZSFnvem6svEmWmWekILtp7aKtht3dKPUOgmAQBKx_C_lLW88tE_JU8DVau0oXieycFUbESUMTzW1I4_8dAtJ80SbOQo_W7meUeZGKtFJmD_MqLC0chuq-5RUwx15VZUNMIDyBFWh8nBR/s1600/gradpic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEZSFnvem6svEmWmWekILtp7aKtht3dKPUOgmAQBKx_C_lLW88tE_JU8DVau0oXieycFUbESUMTzW1I4_8dAtJ80SbOQo_W7meUeZGKtFJmD_MqLC0chuq-5RUwx15VZUNMIDyBFWh8nBR/s320/gradpic.jpg" width="296" /></a></div><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Dear Graduate,</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I can't believe it's been a year since I took this picture. Today a whole new crop of grads will walk across the stage and enter the real world from my alma mater(TU!!!!) and many other college graduation ceremonies will be held this month. This past year has been one of the hardest years of my life and I want to share with you what I have learned.</span><br />
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<b><div class="MsoNormal" style="display: inline ! important;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">There is no direct or defined route to success<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">.</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> Yes you can talk to your mentors or read stories of people who made it and try to follow their footsteps, but there is no defined way to success. You have to find your own way. People can help, but you must write your own story.</span></span></div></b><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial;">A degree does not equal entitlement. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Ok sure. You have a pretty piece of paper that cost thousands of dollars. You work hard for 4,5, 6(maybe even 7) years to get here, so someone should be so willing to give you a job, right? WRONG! To be very blunt(and excuse my French), life don't owe you sh*t! You have to work to get what you in life. No one is going to give you anything just because you have a degree. Don't believe me? Ask the many Americans with Masters degrees and Ph.D.s working as waiters, bartenders, retail clerks, and other low-skilled jobs. You must sell yourself, brand yourself, and prove to people why you are so great.</span></span><span style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><b><div class="MsoNormal" style="display: inline ! important;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Surround yourself with people who believe in you<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">.</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> Some days you will doubt whether you have what it takes to really make it. (This can happen whether you are employed or unemployed). Surround yourself with a core group of people that will encourage you when you are down and will keep you on track to achieving your goals. If you do not have people in your circle that truly believe in you, find a new group.</span></span></div></b><br />
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</div><b><div class="MsoNormal" style="display: inline ! important; text-indent: -24pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Make a life plan<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">. </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Yes I know life doesn't always go according to plan. Everything I have tried in the past year has pretty much failed, but when that happens you go back to the drawing board and rewrite. Having a life plan helps you to stay focused and not lose sight of your goals. Make sure for each goal you have a purpose and an action plan to match it.</span></span></div></b><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b></b></div><b><div class="MsoNormal" style="display: inline ! important;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Always believe in your vision.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> E</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">ven when people cannot see it, always believe in your vision. You are destined to do something very special on this Earth that only YOU can do. People will call you are crazy because of your vision. Even your own family members will try to discourage you because they are scared you might fail. If you do fail, keep failing until you succeed. All successful people failed many times before they made it, but they never lost sight of their vision. Nothing worth having in this life comes easy.</span></span></div></b><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Remember my new grads, life is what you make it. Letting obstacles knock you down will not get you to where you want to go. Always keep pushing even when you feel like giving up. Congratulations on your achievements and much success to you in the future! *cue "We've Only Just Begun."</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Signed Your Struggling Yet Destined to Succeed 2010 graduate,</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Lauren </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">@BrokeRecentGrad</span>LMGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06562477223564069988noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3248169704106959680.post-1770435107534956082011-03-24T07:30:00.000-07:002011-03-24T07:30:08.171-07:00Nonprofits provide fulfilling job opportunities to recent grads<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06byc5fbI2Sg5tCJswzyfRK0WkiFlh3QjBtyHgZD78Nd9gDSrYUl5v3gPgNdTZ5pYasRpjbLRFaq90xzwOUhStAAXNihbKLaAxamNQ4Nc9fdYWmliuYmOGLLoPlWrdy_ALbhJojXt6cRN/s1600/b696dff6-7154-4acb-92cf-96aa9cc2fae6-m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06byc5fbI2Sg5tCJswzyfRK0WkiFlh3QjBtyHgZD78Nd9gDSrYUl5v3gPgNdTZ5pYasRpjbLRFaq90xzwOUhStAAXNihbKLaAxamNQ4Nc9fdYWmliuYmOGLLoPlWrdy_ALbhJojXt6cRN/s200/b696dff6-7154-4acb-92cf-96aa9cc2fae6-m.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Still looking for a full-time job months after graduation? Have a desire to change the world? Working at a nonprofit organization may be for you. Nonprofits can be a pathway to enter various fields such as IT, marketing and public relations, education, legal professions, and accounting.<br />
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Many recent grads have started their careers at nonprofits and are helping their communities every day. Recent grads Colleen Flynn, Jeremy Strauss and Liz Copeland began working in the nonprofit sector by volunteering with LIFT, an anti-poverty organization, as college students. They are now working full-time at various nonprofits.<br />
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These grads have received challenging opportunities that have helped them to grow as professionals. “Working at a nonprofit has given me more responsibility and more leadership opportunities than I ever imagined at such a young age,” said Flynn.<br />
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As LIFT’s communications and media relations manager, Colleen Flynn has garnered more than 20 major press opportunities, managed the rebranding of an organization, and produced several publications and videos.<br />
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Along with challenging opportunities, working at nonprofits has other benefits. Nonprofits usually have positive and collaborative work environments. “Everyone is working there (a nonprofit) because they care about the issue,” said Copeland.<br />
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Other benefits include upward mobility and the ability to help people every day. “It’s rewarding work. You don’t make as much money, but you are making an impact in people’s lives,” said Strauss.<br />
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Working at a nonprofit is different than working at a traditional business. Since they are less staff and smaller budgets, you must be willing to collaborate with other staff members and be creative with resources. You should also be passionate and have a connection to the work you are doing at the organization.<br />
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There are several networks you can join if you are interested in working in the nonprofit sector. The Young Nonprofit Professional Networks, local volunteer groups, and even your college alumni chapter are good ways to network. AmeriCorps and <a href="http://www.idealist.org/" rel="nofollow"><span style="color: #336699;">idealist.org</span></a> are also good places to find nonprofit jobs.<br />
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To learn more about LIFT, visit <a href="http://www.liftcommunities.org/" rel="nofollow"><span style="color: #336699;">liftcommunities.org</span></a>.LMGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06562477223564069988noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3248169704106959680.post-33895507904487195482011-03-11T11:35:00.000-08:002011-03-16T09:15:46.692-07:00Tips From a Fellow Job Seeker<div style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the job market is slowly starting to make progress. The unemployment rate dropped to 8.9% last month, the lowest it has been in two year. With the economy on the upswing, job seekers most put their best foot forward to take advantage of rising job opportunities. I recently spoke to a fellow job seeker, Aida Rinay(<a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/Miniaturebeauty">@minaturebeauty</a>) about job search tactics that have worked for her and they could work for you too.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1. Tailor your Resume</span></i></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">It is important to tailor your resume to each job you apply for. Make sure your experience relates to the job description. Use keywords on your resume whenever possible. If you are searching for job in a specific industry, google examples of resumes in your field to find formats that you could use</span><br />
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2. <i><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Sell Yourself</span></i></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">No matter what job you are applying for, you must sell yourself. Explain to the employer why you are the right person for the job. If you submitting a general application, explain how you can benefit the company.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">3. Set a Schedule and Have a Plan</span></i></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Have a goal to send a certain amount of resumes and find a certain number of job opportunities each day. Along with using website such as <a href="http://monster.com/">monster.com</a> and <a href="http://simplyhired.com/">simplyhired.com</a>, research companies you want to work for and submit your resume.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">4. Have a Positive Attitude</span></i></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">If you have a negative mindset, you will attract negative outcomes. Have faith and believe that you will find the job for you. Use inspirational quotes, positive affirmations, pray, or meditate to help you maintain a positive attitude. </span></div><div style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Searching for work in a weak economy isn't easy, but you will find the right job if you put your best foot forward.</div><smallfrac m:val="off"><dispdef><lmargin m:val="0"><rmargin m:val="0"><defjc m:val="centerGroup"><wrapindent m:val="1440"><intlim m:val="subSup"><narylim m:val="undOvr"></narylim></intlim></wrapindent></defjc></rmargin></lmargin></dispdef></smallfrac>LMGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06562477223564069988noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3248169704106959680.post-25205538230397222862011-02-17T11:20:00.000-08:002011-02-17T11:20:19.166-08:00Staying Motivated During Your Job Search<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/> <w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> <w:Word11KerningPairs/> <w:CachedColBalance/> </w:Compatibility> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--> <m:smallfrac m:val="off"> <m:dispdef> <m:lmargin m:val="0"> <m:rmargin m:val="0"> <m:defjc m:val="centerGroup"> <m:wrapindent m:val="1440"> <m:intlim m:val="subSup"> <m:narylim m:val="undOvr"> </m:narylim></m:intlim> </m:wrapindent><!--[endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
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Job seekers are still struggling to find work. According to the Labor Department, new jobless claims rose for the first time in three weeks this week. Staying motivated during the job search is hard especially if you have been searching for a long time.<br />
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Despite this gloomy economy, talented and hard working people are getting hired every day. Having motivation is the key to your success. Here are some tips to help you stay motivated.<br />
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<em>1) Maintain a Positive Attitude</em><br />
Negativity is a big motivation killer. When negative thoughts or doubt creeps into your mind, visualize your success and yourself at your new job. Inspirational quotes and stories of successful people you admire can also help you to stay positive.<br />
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<em>2) Build a Support Network</em><br />
Job searching in a poor economy is not an easy task. You need a few personal cheerleaders to encourage you and help you maintain a positive attitude. Find a friend or family member that you can talk to when you are feeling down. They can give you advice or help you think of new job search strategies. You can also join a job search support group or start one.<br />
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<em>3) Learn How to Handle Rejection</em><br />
Not receiving any job offers or getting any interviews can make you feel like you are nothing, but everybody gets rejected at some point in life. Do not take it personal. Recruiters have a specific person in mind for a job. If you are rejected, then that job was not for you and there is a better job out there for you. Use rejection as an opportunity to get feedback on how you can improve your job applications.<br />
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<em>4) Set a Schedule</em><br />
Looking for jobs nonstop will leave you burned out. Set aside a few hours at a time where you look for new job leads, make follow-up calls, send e-mails, apply for jobs, and connect with people in your network. Take breaks in between activities. Make sure you conduct part of your search during normal business hours.<br />
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<em>5) Network. </em><br />
Attend networking events. Do not limit yourself to events that are in your field. You never know what people or job leads individuals in other fields may know. Connect with people in your network by going to lunch with them or doing informational interviews. They can offer you advice and share their job leads.<br />
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<em>6) Learn a New Skill</em><br />
Learning a new skill keeps you busy and makes you more marketable in the job market. Seek out classes, attend workshops, or simply read books. Volunteering is also another way you can learn a new skill. Offer your services to a nonprofit organization or a small business owner that could use your help.<br />
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<em>7) Manage Stress and Enjoy Life. </em><br />
Have fun to relieve stress. Do activities you enjoy. Spend time with family and friends. Exercising is also a good way to manage stress.<br />
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Remember, you are not defined by your job or occupation. You are defined by your character. <br />
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</div>LMGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06562477223564069988noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3248169704106959680.post-41570603699106425552011-01-31T18:20:00.000-08:002011-02-02T09:16:03.349-08:00Recent Grads Create Their Own Jobs in Poor Job Market<m:smallfrac m:val="off"> <m:dispdef> <m:lmargin m:val="0"> <m:rmargin m:val="0"> <m:defjc m:val="centerGroup"> <m:wrapindent m:val="1440"> <m:intlim m:val="subSup"> <m:narylim m:val="undOvr"> </m:narylim></m:intlim> </m:wrapindent> </m:defjc></m:rmargin></m:lmargin></m:dispdef></m:smallfrac><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">The economy is starting to improve, but many Americans are still struggling to find jobs. With the country’s unemployment rate at 9.8%, one group of people that is having difficulty finding work is recent college graduates.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate among people under 25 with bachelor’s degrees reached 9.6% in December. Many recent grads are also among the underemployed working at waiters, retail clerks, bartenders, customer service agents, and flight attendants. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Frustrated with the economy and the poor job market, some recent grads are turning to entrepreneurship and starting their own businesses. One of these grads is Benjamin Shore.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Benjamin Shore graduated from the University of Maryland with Business degree last May. He started his Longevity nutrition company after three months of job searching and no luck. “<span class="prcontent">I knew I had the skills</span>, drive, ambition, and desire to succeed. If no one could realize that and see that in me then I was going to work for myself,” said Shore.</div><div class="MsoNormal">While Ben has never been more excited about working, he has made many sacrifices to make his business succeed. Benjamin works 30 hours a week in call center to pay his bills. When he’s not working at the call center, he is working on his business. Benjamin has also cut back on eating out and going to bars with friends. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Benjamin encourages other young graduates to pursue their entrepreneurship dreams. He suggested that recent grads learn all they can by reading books about their desired business and taking small business classes. In order to succeed as an entrepreneur, Benjamin believes young grads should have a relentless drive to succeed, love challenges and competition, and thick skin to handle criticism. “You have to have vision and understand that people won’t understand it. You will receive social pressure to conform, but you have to stick to your vision.” </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">For more information about Benjamin Shore’s Longevity Company visit <a href="http://www.longevitydrugstore.com/">www.LongevityDrugstore.com</a><span class="prcontent"> a</span>nd his blog <a href="http://www.antiagingsupplementreview.com./">www.<span class="prcontent">antiagingsupplementreview.com.</span></a></div>LMGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06562477223564069988noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3248169704106959680.post-65521161908561240542010-12-24T11:12:00.000-08:002010-12-30T14:12:13.991-08:00Merry Christmas Class of 2010<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU-DH_WUorq3HtdeofGhTeBLSi1XAqNORx34TeqPlZWG1r_USX6gq-E00_uybf7FSoXqER0E1scxcHoOfBs29yc608kjrCP3jtjz6XBLuLwYjbmj6LOak1AgXDk908kQ4BNElNk1Pbkwjd/s1600/graduation-ornament-zoom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU-DH_WUorq3HtdeofGhTeBLSi1XAqNORx34TeqPlZWG1r_USX6gq-E00_uybf7FSoXqER0E1scxcHoOfBs29yc608kjrCP3jtjz6XBLuLwYjbmj6LOak1AgXDk908kQ4BNElNk1Pbkwjd/s200/graduation-ornament-zoom.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
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Congratulations December 2010 graduates! You finally joined the college graduate club. As you probably know, it's rough out here especially during Christmas time. It took a lot for me to get in the Christmas spirit because I was feeling depressed about my job situation. While things get hard, you have to keep going. So, here are my tips for surviving out here in the real world.<br />
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1) <b>Have an Open Mind</b>. Because of this economy, it will be difficult to find something in your field. (Trust me, I know this.) Since they are so many people out here like you competing for the same jobs, it may take a while to find your ideal job. Search for opportunities outside of your field along with jobs in your field. It's not where you start, it's where you end up. You also need to earn money to support yourself and pay bills. Don't be ashamed to take a job in food service or retail if you have to. It's only temporary and you will eventually find something in your field.<br />
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2) <b>Work your plan</b>. If there is a project or something you want to do, now is the best time to start it. Whether it's a website, business, charity, or volunteer work, do it now. It's a good way to keep you busy and develop your skills.You never know where your work could lead you. It could lead you to opportunities that help you accomplish your goals and achieve your dreams.<br />
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3)<b> Build and Utilize Your Network. </b>The best way to find a job is through networking. Every good job I have had was because I knew someone. With so many people looking for work, applying for jobs online is not the most efficient way to look for work. (Not to say that applying for jobs online doesn't work. You just need to use multiple methods.) Tell everyone you know that you are looking for work. Attend networking events in your area and keep building relationships. <br />
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4) <b>Keep Stress Down</b>- Adjusting to being in the real world can be stressful especially if you are still looking for employment. Do activities that you enjoy to keep stress down. Exercising is a great way to relieve stress and stay healthy.<br />
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5)<b> Manage student loans</b>. While you may have a grace period, you need to mentally prepare yourself to pay back you student loans. Make sure you know all the terms of your student loans and all of your repayment options.This is also a good time to put yourself on a budget and learn how to manage your finances. Having a budget controls your spending, so you will have money to pay your bills. <br />
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6)<b> Have Faith. </b>No matter your religious persuasion, you have to have faith. You have to encourage yourself and believe that things will work out. Searching for a job in this economy is rough. Making ends meet is hard. Having faith motivates you to keep going. No matter how bad it gets, don't give up because life can be a lot worse!<br />
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The real world may seem scary, but you will make it. You already made it this far. Celebrate your success and Have a Very Merry Christmas!LMGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06562477223564069988noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3248169704106959680.post-88772072326618818092010-12-07T16:58:00.000-08:002010-12-30T14:11:49.224-08:00"Pay Me My Money Now"- Student Loan Rep<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">If you graduated in May 2010, it's probably time for you to start making student loan payments. Unless you want your credit to be in the toilet, you MUST make your payments. I understand if you have high payments. Some of my friends have monthly payments as high as $500! That's a lot of money for someone with a lot of bills or who doesn't have a steady job yet. Fortunately, you have options if you can't afford to pay your student loan payments. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">If just want to reduce your payments, there are a few plans you can choose from </span></div><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline;">Extended</span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Under this plan, you have 25 years to pay off your loans. You will have a lower payment, but you will pay more in interest because you have a longer repayment period. There are some restrictions with this plan. If Direct Loan is your creditor, you must have more than $30,000 in Direct Loans. If FFEL (Federal Family Education Loan) is your creditor, you must have more than $30,000 in FFEL Program loans.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline;">Graduated</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">With this plan, your payments start out low and increase every two years. This plan also gives you 10 years pay off your loans. This plan is good if you expect your income to steadily increase over time.</span></div><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline;">Income Based Repayment Plan (IBR)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Under this plan, your payment is based on your income and family size. You are eligible for this plan if your monthly payment is lower under IBR than under the standard plan. This plan also comes with a few incentives. If you repay under IBR for 25 years and meet other requirements, your remaining debt can be cancelled. If you work in public service and repay under IBR, your remaining debt can be cancelled after 10 years in public service. While this plan does have incentives, it also has disadvantages. Because you are making a lower payment, you may pay more in interest. You also have to send your lender documentation about your income and family size every year. You can get an estimate of your payment under this plan by using IBR <a href="http://studentaid.ed.gov/PORTALSWebApp/students/english/IBRCalc.jsp">caluclator</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">If you absolutely cannot afford to make any payments at all, you can either apply for a deferment or forbearance.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline;">Deferment</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">A deferment is a temporary suspension of repayment on your principal loan balance for specific period of time. You do not have to pay interest on subsidized loans during deferment, but you must pay it on unsubsidized loans. If you do not pay the interest on your unsubsidized loans, it will be added to your balance and you will pay more money. You qualify for a deferment under the following conditions:</span><br />
<ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.7441297570293374" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Enrolled in school at least part time</span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.7441297570293374" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Studying in an approved graduated fellowship program or in an approved rehabilitation training program for the disabled</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Unemployed(Deferment up to three years)</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Economic hardship{Deferment up to three years (including Peace Corps)}</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">A member of US Armed forces reserve or the National Guard. You must be called or ordered to active duty while in school at least part time or within six months of having been enrolled at least half-time.</span></span></span></li>
</ul><u>Forbearance</u> <br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">If you do not qualify for deferment, you can apply for a forbearance. A forbearance allows you to postpone or reduce your monthly payments for a specific time period due to financial hardship or illness. You are responsible for paying the interest on both subsidized and unsubsidized loans. If you do not pay the interest, it will be added to your principal balance and you will pay more money.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Paying off your student loans may seem overwhelming, but your education was an investment in yourself. People pay $50,000 for a luxury car that depreciates as soon as they drive it off the lot and pay it off within 5 to 10 years. Don't stress over your debt. Make your payments on time or take advantage of your options if you cannot afford to make payments. Whatever you do, DON'T DEFAULT ON YOUR STUDENT LOANS. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">All information presented only relates to Federal student loans and is provided by the Department of Education. For more information, please visit <a href="http://studentaided.gov./">studentaided.gov.</a> If you have private student loans, contact your lender(s) for repayment options.</span>LMGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06562477223564069988noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3248169704106959680.post-19762292436435462332010-11-29T10:44:00.000-08:002010-12-30T14:10:11.171-08:003 Reasons Why I Love LinkedIn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOPcaCL-G7ocrqHc2IIgOuekf3rVG4n2AuEwNTPcgajJyN6fdjdvQSsxmhgtAAKMNvswaqbCVrYLyLEasAmQkT0PxJfy9md1CMsXXaXIaeL3eR4YjNDGYxjFQQRdP3x8DgBMkuamGLcwNL/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="107" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOPcaCL-G7ocrqHc2IIgOuekf3rVG4n2AuEwNTPcgajJyN6fdjdvQSsxmhgtAAKMNvswaqbCVrYLyLEasAmQkT0PxJfy9md1CMsXXaXIaeL3eR4YjNDGYxjFQQRdP3x8DgBMkuamGLcwNL/s320/images.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
LinkedIn is a great resource for networking and job searching. I recently fell in love with LinkedIn after discovering different features. These are my 3 favorite things about LinkedIn.<br />
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1.<b> Make great connections. </b> One of the features that I love is the "People You May Know" feature. I have tracked down former co- workers and made multiple new connections. Before using this feature I had about 45 connections. Over the past month, my LinkedIn network has grown to over 100 people just by using this feature. I have connected with people who work at companies that I am interested in and people who work in my desired field.<br />
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2. <b>Find Recruiters and Human Resource Managers</b>. Sometimes, I cannot find the right person to send my materials to when applying for a job. Some companies were also unwilling to give me the name of the right person. Doing a LinkedIn search helped me to find the right person. I then sent my materials directly to the recruiter. (Hint: Most people email address is first name. lastname@thecompany.com. For example. melissa.snow@xyzcompany.com.) <br />
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3. Find a Job. LinkedIn has its own job section. You can find jobs by using their advanced search feature is the best way to search within the jobs section. Just type in your desired position and location. You can also use groups to look for jobs. Groups have job boards and some groups are dedicated to job seekers. For example, Find Luxury Jobs.<br />
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LinkedIn may not lead you to a job right away, but the connections you make are priceless. If you are not on LinkedIn already, get on it! You are missing out on job opportunities and the chance to build relationships with people.LMGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06562477223564069988noreply@blogger.com0