So You Want to Be a Drum Major Tips Advice for Students

So You Want to Be a Drum Major Tips Advice for Students Megan L. Playing in your high school band is a commitment that will give you many fond memories to look back on for the rest of your life. High school is a time to socialize and discover yourself, so if music is something you are passionate about, what better way to express that than by joining the band? Nothing is more rewarding than working hard with your fellow friends and bandmates to perfect your performance and finally getting a chance to perform it at a competition, football game, or other band-related event. However, no group effort can reach its full potential without some kind of leadership, and marching band is no exception. This is where the role of the drum major comes into play; the drum major is, among many other things, responsible for leading the band, whether it be during practice or a performance. Being drum major is a huge honor, but it does not come without hard work, dedication, and practice. If you are considering becoming a drum major in your high school band, below are some drum major tips that will help you reach your goal. What Does it Take to Be a Drum Major? Above all else, being musically proficient is the best of all drum major tips. This does not simply mean knowing how to read music and being able to play your instrument; it means understanding how music is created and structured (music theory), being skilled enough at your instrument that playing it becomes second nature, and also knowing how to march with precise timing and accuracy. While some people may feel like they dont have what it takes to become skilled in these areas, you can certainly improve with practice. Some people may be born with natural musical talent, but anyone with the right mindset can learn any skill they set their mind to! Working with a private instructor will also help immensely. Leadership skills are also essential to become a drum major. Good leadership can mean different things to different people, but a few universal traits of an exceptional leader include being firm in your decisions, knowing how to gain and hold the attention of a group, and having good problem-solving skills. If youre uncomfortable holding a leadership position and do not like having responsibility, then maybe being a drum major isnt for you; this does not mean, however, that a quiet or shy person cannot be a drum major. Leadership is all about figuring out the best way to lead a group toward a goal, which can be done by anyone with ambition. Another drum major tip to master the ability to conduct. Without anyone conducting the band, the music can get sloppy. Conducting is a skill that takes time and patience to master, so consider learning from a qualified teacher to receive the best learning experience. How Do I Become a Drum Major? Tips for Students While the requirements and processes involved in becoming drum major can vary from school to school, there are typically five general areas that candidates will be tested on to prove their worth as a drum major. Keep in mind that these divisions are not set in stone, but the skills involved in each are helpful to master: Parade: The purpose of this section is primarily to test the candidates physical proficiency. Typically, all candidates are given a recording of a march prior to the trial, and your job is to create a routine to accompany it. You are judged on the ability to march in a concise manner and on your creativity and originality as a drum major and musician. Field: This section is meant to test your conducting ability. You may be placed in a situation similar to a field performance, and asked to conduct the band in a mock performance. Clarity, precision, and confidence are important for this section, because its meant to test your ability to lead and conduct the band in a performance setting. Teaching: This is another section of your audition that requires superb leadership skills. You might be given a small group of band members to teach a simple routine or command to, and youll then be judged on how well you can communicate with the group and how quickly you can teach them. Interview: The purpose of this section should be fairly clear. Youll likely be interviewed by your superiors, which may include your band director and possibly a drum major selection committee. Each candidate will usually be asked the same questions, all meant to measure your particular skillset: leadership, musical proficiency, ability to conduct, and anything else relevant to the position. Vote: In some schools, the rest of the band might vote for who they think is the best choice for drum major. The purpose of the vote is to allow everyone in the band to give their input, because since the drum major will lead the band, it is only fitting that their opinion on who the leader should be is considered. There are plenty of other drum major tips you can utilize if you wish to become a drum major, but this should provide a good starting point for you. Being the drum major for a band can be a demanding and sometimes difficult task, but its a rewarding experience, and something that will look great on your resume! If you are serious about it, taking  private music lessons  and practicing regularly is the best way to improve yourself and become the leader that drum majors need to be. Good luck in your musical endeavors, and even if the position of drum major doesnt seem right for you, remember that there are plenty of other opportunities for musical expression; anyone with passion for music belongs in the band, so find the right position for you and excel at it! Interested in Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher Photo  by Renee Silverman

Everything a College Freshman Needs to Know

Everything a College Freshman Needs to Know College freshmen can quickly become overwhelmed with the transition to learning and living on a university campus. Acclimating to the rhythm of college life can be challenging. Those students who are pursuing college after some time away may also encounter difficulties when they become first-time university students. Regardless of your age, here are five key things that every college freshman needs to know before he or she begins his or her first semester of school. These are: Budgeting your finances Staying healthy Building a circle of new friends on campus Getting to know your professors Utilizing your college academic advising resources Mind your money budget for collegetuition and related expenses You are likely well aware of the immediate costs of college, such as tuition, room and board, and your meal plan. However, have you considered the hidden expenses of attending a university? Many freshmen will quickly realize that other expensesincluding textbooks and school suppliesmount rapidly. Monitor your costs by creating and maintaining a budget in which you track your spending. Also, look for money-saving opportunities on campus. Consider renting or purchasing used textbooks instead of buying them new, and apply for grants or scholarships. Stay healthy physically and mentally to improve your college academics Balancing a full class schedule, extra-curricular activities, a job, and sportsas well as a social lifecan be exceptionally demanding during your first year of college. It is critical that you do not overextend yourself to the point where you are continually stressed, which will make you both unhappy and unhealthy. Enroll in a reasonable number of courses so you will feel confident and comfortable with your academic workload, and sign up for just one or two extra-curricular activities that are most important to you. Seek academic assistance if you feel you would benefit. Finding a tutoryou work well with could greatly help you! If you work, make it clear to your employer that university comes first; it is usually best to opt for several flexible hours per week. Remember to eat well, to sleep for a full evening, and to exercise regularlyall of which will contribute positively to your health and stress management. Campus counseling is also typically available if you require it. Be socialnot shy, get to know other students Whether you plan to attend a small private college or a large public university, making new friends can seem daunting. Believe it or not, most other college freshmen feel nervous about meeting new people, too. If you live on campus, start by getting to know your roommates and other students in your dorm. Joining clubs, participating in campus politics or Greek life, and simply chatting with your fellow students after class are also great ways to be social. Here are some great tips on how to make the most of college extracurriculars. Consider utilizing online resources. In todays technology-driven age, it is very easy to meet others attending your school with similar interests via social media. This can help you make friends before your first semester even begins! Establish positive relationships with your professors Your professors exist to assist you. It is advantageous for you to introduce yourself, participate regularly in class, and attend office hours. Nothing pleases a professor more than to see a student put a sincere effort into his or her studies and follow along in class. If you try hard to do well, and you maintain a positive relationship with your professors, they will remember your nameno matter how many students are enrolled in their classes. Ultimately, such relationships can be immensely beneficial. Immediately, your professors can help you excel academically, but they can also serve as excellent references for jobs and internships that you may apply to in the future. These are some great tips on how to make a good impression on your college professor. Visit your college academic adviser A mistake that the average college freshman often makes is not meeting with his or her academic adviser. Though your school will likely provide you with a catalog detailing courses offered, as well as the academic requirements for each major and minor, it can be overwhelming to understand and retain this information. Excellent planning is a critical factor in ensuring you meet your requirements and make the most of the time you spend in college. Schedule an appointment with your adviser before you register for classes so that you can review your academic requirements together and determine the best schedule for you. A smart way to stay on top of your academic plan is to meet with your adviser at least once before your enrollment appointment each semester. Here are example questions college freshmen should ask their academic advisers: What courses am I required to take to complete my major? What is the average time to graduation for my major? How soon should I start applying for summer internships? What special programs are offered that relate to my major? For example, study abroad programs and internships. When should I start registering for next semester's courses? Here is an at-a-glance table highlighting what all freshmen college students need to know: College Freshmen Essential Knowledge Example Actions Financial Health Budget for tuition, room and board, supplies, discretionary spending Academic Life Know what courses are required for your major, which professors teaches them, when the courses are offered Social Life Explore different student clubs and organizations, establish study groups Physical And Mental Health Find activities to maintain your physical and mental health - college can be a demanding experience Any topics you want to know more about? Let us know! The Varsity Tutors Blog editors love hearing your feedback and opinions. Feel free to email us atblog@varsitytutors.com.

Study In Your Preferred Learning Style With An Online Science Tutor

Study In Your Preferred Learning Style With An Online Science Tutor Studies show that there are a variety of different learning styles and each student must make use of the one that suits him/her the most to get the best results. For instance, while some learn better with visual aids such as pictures, images, graphs and so on, others learn better when they listen to lectures and audio tapes. Thus, identifying which style of learning suits a student better is crucial to good performance especially in subjects such as science that require complete understanding. With students turning to the online platform for their educational needs, online tutors are employing a variety of different techniques to provide better learning. Identifying the student’s preferred learning style and putting it to good use is the first step involved in online learning. Seek #Physics #Homework Help To Boost Your GPA https://t.co/yYvwSuZJ6Y â€" Tutor Pace (@TutorPace) November 1, 2015 Learning styles via online science tutor â€" an overview There are primarily three different styles of learning and they are: Visual Learning  Auditory Learning Kinesthetic/Tactile Learning-  Visual Science Learning style Visual learning is for those who wish to take a look at things while learning. For instance, if a student learns better with charts, images and other visual forms, he/she is a visual learner. A visual learner should employ the following to succeed in studying. Study with the help of charts, graphs and maps.  Take notes and highlight important points (preferably in color)  For subjects such as science, they can look up online videos from a prominent online science tutor to learn better.  Make flash cards and pictorial representations for better learning. Auditory Learning style Another popular learning style is the auditory style of learning wherein students learn by listening to the class. For instance, if a student asks for repetition or reads aloud or prefers to listen to tapes for learning, he/she is an auditory learner. An auditory learner can use the following to learn better: Speak out and ask questions isten to audio tapes or recorded sessions to get help with confusing topics. This could even work as good science homework help and help with homework and projects on other subjects too. Make up mnemonics to learn difficult formula and identities. Maximize verbal learning and try to incorporate it in the study pattern. How An Online #Biology Tutor Can Help To Improve Your #Grades https://t.co/bywZNF6W5U â€" Tutor Pace (@TutorPace) November 1, 2015 Tactile/Kinesthetic Learning style Yet another widely popular learning style is the tactile learning or kinesthetic style of learning. This style of learning involves learning through touch and trying things out. For instance, kinesthetic learners are people who feel restless when they have to stay put and love to try things out and learn by doing things. Tactile learners can learn in the following manner: Employ checklists and write down notes. Draw or trace diagrams and graphs to connect with the subject better. Learn by incorporating music or dance into lessons. When they associate some movement or action with a lesson, they learn better. Thus, identifying different learning styles and which ones the students relate to is very important for a student to perform well in tests. Why Students Need To Hire An Online #Biology Tutor For Final #Exams https://t.co/QeQGXqGe9l â€" Tutor Pace (@TutorPace) October 31, 2015 Summary There are many different styles of learning and it is important for the students to identify as to which learning style is best suited for them. Adapting these learning styles to one’s way of learning can help improve the scores dramatically! Thus, whether it is science assignment help, homework help or learning via online classes, students should employ these learning styles to get the maximum out of these classes and this will help them score aces in their exams.

Tips for Parents The 5 Best Guitars for Kids

Tips for Parents The 5 Best Guitars for Kids Megan L. Figuring out how to find a great first-time guitar can be a challenge in itself, but what to do when youre looking for a child? Have no fear, guitar instructor  Matthew K. is here! Read on for some professional insight, purchase recommendations, and how to find the best guitars for kids Learning to play the guitar can be the most exciting time in a child’s life so it’s important to choose a guitar that fits!  Full-size guitars can be too big and bulky for a child’s small hands to work around, which can be extremely frustrating and result in aggravation directed at the parents or the teacher.  Nobody wants that frustration! To help your child love playing guitar, I have selected a list of five guitars that, in my eyes, are the best five guitars for kids. The list includes both acoustic and electric guitars. Just keep in mind if you go with an electric guitar, you will have to buy an amp to accompany it. The following are in no particular order since it’s most important to try guitars out in the store and see what works for your child. Let’s get started! Yamaha JR1 Photo via Alto Music Yamaha has a reputation of making great affordable acoustic guitars. Their ¾ size JR1 is no exception. This one is modeled after Yamahas famous FG folk guitar series, and has a great tone for such a small-bodied guitar. It’s listed at $129.99 on Sweetwater.com. Ibanez PF2MH Performance 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar Photo via Reverb I actually own this guitar and love it.  Personally, I use it as my travel guitar, but it’s also a great guitar for beginners. The neck is very easy to maneuver, and the sound it produces is almost of full size quality. It too is listed at $129.99 on Sweetwater.com. Squier  Bullet Stratocaster HSS Electric Guitar with Tremolo Photo via Squier Guitars If the electric guitar is more your kids style, the Squier  Fender Bullet Stratocaster HSS is an excellent choice. Modeled after the American Series Fender Stratocaster, the Squier Bullet is the perfect electric guitar to get your child excited about music. It can be found for $129.99 on Amazon.com. 4) Epiphone Les Paul 100 Photo via musicradar This guitar is slightly more expensive, but tonally superior. If you’re more of a Gibson than a Fender person, this is the guitar. The Epiphone Les Paul 100 is a slimmer guitar, so it is perfect for a beginner with smaller hands. It is a little more expensive, but this is a guitar that will remain in their collection for some time. It can be found on Sweetwater.com for $269.00.  The bag and amp are sold separately. 5) Martin LXM Little Martin Photo via Martin Co. This little guitar was just made famous by Ed Sheeran. Extremely playable, it sounds like a full-size Martin. It may be a bit more expensive than the rest, but this is a guitar that should last your child a lifetime. GuitarCenter.com has it listed for $299.99. There are many guitars for kids out there, so hopefully this list will help to narrow your search. Remember that its important to try before you buy- especially for beginners, so don’t just buy online! Once youre all set with an instrument, youll be ready to find your child the right guitar teacher and get rocking! Matthew K. teaches guitar, piano, and music theory lessons in Brooklyn, NY. He studied music composition at Mercyhurst University, and he has been teaching lessons for four years. Matthew is available to teach in-person lessons as well as online via Skype. Learn more about Matthew here! Interested in Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher Photo By Eric Peacock

Are Cheap Gym Membership a Red Flag

Are Cheap Gym Membership a Red Flag Low-Cost Gym Classes: Value-for-Money or Something to Avoid? ChaptersLow-Cost Fitness Training in the UKAre Budget Workouts as Effective as High-End Ones?5 Advantages to Low-Cost Fitness5 Disadvantages of Low-Cost FitnessThere are many exercise and fitness options available, from a personal trainer to buying your exercise equipment to installing a sauna in your basement.According to The Guardian, 12% of UK adults use a gym to keep fit, yet this figure appears to be a low lower than what it could be, as nearly 80% of people have set themselves a fitness goal.So, what’s keeping people away from the gym?High membership costs and joining fees are enough to scare anyone away, especially when they can exercise for free by taking up jogging, for example.However, since the financial crisis of 2008, the low-cost gym market has taken the health and fitness industry by storm as more and more people access high-quality equipment for less.Despite the fall in disposable income of the 9.2 million gym users across the UK, the market has adapted to the finan cial climate and thrived in doing so.Whether you want to tone up before a beach holiday, or you’re training for a triathlon, joining a gym can help you towards your goal.Work on your cardiovascular endurance, stretching in pilates, take Zumba dance or aerobic group training classes or do some basic strength training â€" you can do all of these things at the gym!But which gym should you join?Given the range of price points, membership options and facilities available, it’s not always an easy choice to make.If you’re frugal, you can always rule out the £60 per month, high-end options, so what should you look for from a more affordable, low-cost gym?It’s understandable if some prices for low-cost, basic gyms make you wary â€" after all, you get what you pay for, right?Thanks to the level of competition between businesses in the low-cost fitness industry, the quality of equipment and services at these gyms are pretty high, meaning that you really can have access to the best for less.So, to help you find out more about how low-cost gyms work and what’s on offer, we’ve looked into the affordable fitness options available across the UK. CalumDrama School Entrance Teacher 5.00 (15) £50/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ToriSpanish Teacher 5.00 (1) £15/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors OliviaSchool support Teacher 5.00 (2) £21/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MarkESOL (English) Teacher 4.76 (17) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors YuweiChinese Teacher 4.33 (6) £19/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors JenniferMusic reading Teacher 5.00 (1) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors LouiseAutoCAD Teacher 5.00 (3) £60/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors RickyPercussion Teacher 5.00 (7) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NicolasGuitar Teacher 5.00 (2) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MyriamOrganic chemistry Teacher 5.00 (13) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors Jonathan Economics Teacher 5.00 (9) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors Oluwakemi imoleMaths Teacher 5.00 (1) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AlexPhysics Teacher 5.00 (1) £50/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AdamSinging Teacher 5.00 (14) £48/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ValentiniMusic reading Teacher 5.00 (2) £50/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MilenaMaths Teacher 5.00 (5) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors RashmiEconomics Teacher 5.00 (1) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsLow-Cost Fitness Training in the UKAfter first appearing in the USA, the market for low-cost gyms has only gained momentum by crossing the Atlantic, making its mark in the UK and Europe.Exercise is great for your physical and mental health, and you shouldn’t have to compromise the health of your finances to be able to join in.Depending on how you plan to use your gym, you could pay anything between £10 and £50 per month for the same se rvices.Keeping fit doesn't have to cost a limb ¦ source: Pixabay - markusspiskeThis is because the prices of membership plans vary according to the services offered by your gym.Some gyms and health clubs have pools, saunas and the option of hiring a certified personal trainer in addition to their gym equipment.In budget gyms, however, it’s highly unlikely that you’ll have access to such luxuries â€" not a big deal for those just looking for a no-frills workout.After all, gyms are about providing an area for members to exercise rather than spa experiences.So, here is a run-down of the most popular low-cost fitness centres in the country.Xercise4LessXercise4Less gyms offer the latest high-spec workout equipment as well as 200 free fitness classes per month, led by a fitness instructor.Membership works in tiers: monthly prices are £9.99 per month for off-peak use (between 10am and 4pm on weekdays) or £14.99 for full access, meaning no restriction on when you can attend, and you can use any Xercise4Less gym nationally.They also give students a generous 20% off â€" so there’s really no excuse for them to spend their days asleep!PureGymPureGym is the giant of the low-cost fitness market.Offering 24/7 access to its high-quality equipment as well as lots of free classes for between £19.99 and £26, PureGym is a favourite for night owls and those who work during the day alike.What’s more, for £52.99 per month, you can have access to two PureGyms of your choice.In addition to its wide range of equipment, every PureGym club has changing facilities, lockers, individual showers and hairdryers for its members, so you leave the gym feeling fresh!The GymWith membership starting at just £10.99 per month, The Gym offers quality workout equipment for those on a budget.Paying this little doesn’t mean facilities are compromised, either.With changing rooms, showers and lockers available, as well as vending machines selling drinks and towels, you won’t have to worr y about your post-workout routine.The Gym offers 24/7 services to its members, and for just £29.99 per month, you can use any The Gym in the country!easyGymFrom the same people that run budget airline easyJet, easyGym provides low-cost gym facilities, “Pack Workouts” (group personal training sessions with an accredited personal trainer, rather than a group fitness instructor) and classes for around £18 per month.Its popular group fitness classes include Boxercise and Body Combat and they provide downloadable 12-week fitness programs from their website absolutely free!Are Budget Workouts as Effective as High-End Ones?Paying so little for the gym may have you wondering about the quality of your workouts, and whether this will have an effect on achieving your fitness goals.However, unlike in the case of products, where price indicates the quality of the goods, budget gyms work by providing the facilities for a quality workout and saving money by removing luxuries such as massage therapists and swimming pools.For this reason, it is less common to find personal trainers available in budget gyms, but as we’ve seen, it’s not impossible!Choosing the right gym can be a tough decision ¦ source: Pixabay - StockSnapThe lack of personal training advice and fitness expertise in so many low-cost gyms means that users are often left to their own devices, and so the risk of injury, especially for beginners, is significantly higher.This is because if you’re a workout newbie, it’s difficult to know your body’s limits when it comes to resistance training, cardio health and the weight it can bear.Thankfully, as an intro to your gym fitness education, many of these gyms offer a free induction, so that beginners can learn to use equipment safely and effectively.So, paying just £9.99 per month does have its advantages, but as a member of a low-cost gym, your risk of injury is significantly decreased once you acquire the knowledge of how to train properly with the eq uipment provided.If you’re looking for someone to keep you motived, many low-cost gyms offer personal training services at an added cost.Sometimes, however, if you would just like some guidance on your training program, there are plenty of fitness plans and workout videos from online personal trainerâ€" you just have to choose the right one for you.So, low-cost gyms are brilliant for people who have no trouble motivating themselves to work out and regularly challenge themselves.5 Advantages to Low-Cost FitnessNow we’ve seen what budget gyms are all about, let’s round-up the reasons why low-cost fitness could be an option for you.The PriceThe clue is in the name really.Join a low-cost gym, and the cost will be low.What really is so good about these organisations is the value-for-money. For a regular gym user who just wants somewhere to work out, rather than paying £40 per month for services they don’t use, they can pay as little as £10.Only Pay for What You UseAgain, low-co st gyms only charge for the services you use.This means you only pay for the equipment, changing facilities and the running costs of the gym.Gym Whenever You LikeAlthough budget gym Xercise4Less sells membership based on on-peak and off-peak use, the majority of other low-cost facilities do not operate this way â€" and some of them are open 24/7!Off-peak membership is offered by mid-range gyms as a budget option, however, this isn’t ideal for anyone who has a full-time job.A Like-Minded ClienteleOne of the things that makes budget fitness stand out is the diversity of its users.At a low-cost gym, you’ll meet people from all kinds of backgrounds with a wide range of different goals.What they have in common is their ability to self-motivate and a need for simple, no-nonsense training.Freedom in Your TrainingThe lack of personal trainers can be advantageous, as low-cost gyms offer independence in your workouts â€" even if they help you get started or give you a training plan, you†™re free to add to or change it depending on what you feel is right.If a certain exercise isn’t working for you, you’re free to try something else and figure out what’s best for you.5 Disadvantages of Low-Cost FitnessThese days, it’s becoming easier than ever to access top-of-the-range services for a lot less than you’d expect. Even low-cost gyms might offer, for example, ladies-only exercise options for women nervous about exercising around men.However, what you don’t pay in cash might be paid in the quality, availability and reliability of what you buy.Here are the 5 main aspects of low-cost fitness which may make you think twice about signing up to a budget gym.Lack of a personalised programmeMany upmarket options include personal training as standard, however, this is classed as a ‘luxury’, and therefore hardly features in budget gyms.Of course, your fitness journey is all about your continuing education about techniques and your physiology, however, no amount of googling and Youtube tutorials can replace a professional in training program design who has had to sit formal fitness certification exams to become a personal trainer.Many recommend that beginners see a personal fitness trainer as an athlete with a personal  trainer certification to try out different exercise programs before they set out in a gym by themselves. Advice from a fitness professional helps them get used to the gym environment and how their body responds to physical exertion.Increased risk of injuryAlthough many gyms do their best to introduce you to the equipment, since there is no personal guidance whilst you embark on your journey towards your goals, you’re more likely to use the machines incorrectly and subsequently injure yourself.Personal training can reduce your risk of accident at the gym ¦ source: Pixabay - MeditationsNeed for self-motivationSince there is no one to make sure that you turn up on time and stick to your fitness program, you have to do so yours elf.Being able to self-motivate means the difference between wasting your time and money, and successfully achieving your objectives.Risk of stagnationStagnation is what happens when you can’t see any clear way to improve your skills, so your workouts become far too easy and you stay at the same ability.With expert advice, this won’t happen, but the nature of low-cost gyms means that you have to learn to challenge yourself on your own.Added costsSince low-cost gyms only provide the very basics as part of your membership fees, you may be expected to pay for locker, changing and shower facilities â€" so your training may not be so low-cost after all.Having help and guidance from a fitness specialist can help avoid all of these problems, but it’s all about weighing up the pros and cons and deciding what’s right for you.

Career Guidance for Teenagers

Career Guidance for Teenagers Parents often have ideas of what types of careers their children should consider once they approach college, but they are, of course, quite biased. Although adults have a lifetime of experience to draw from, they really only know their own career journey well. Parents intentions might be good when they suggest possible college majors and career paths, but its more important that they put their teens in the drivers seat and guide them from the sidelines. Understandably, parents want to compel their teens to get serious about their futures as early in high school as possible, but this can be overwhelming and counterproductive for students, says Eileen Huntington, CEO and Co-Founder of Huntington Learning Center. So, whats the best way to help teens explore the possibilities and discover the best career for them? Huntington offers these tips: Ask more than just, What do you want to do? Sure, some teens have known what they want to do from the time they were in third grade, but for those who havent discovered that yet, its fruitless and frustrating to be asked the question over and overthey simply dont know yet. Instead, parents should ask their teens about school and extracurricular experiences that make feel fulfilled and productive. Try questions like, What subjects are you best at? In school and life, when do you feel most successful? and Are there any jobs youve heard of that sound interesting to you? Springboard from the strengths. While teens might recognize that they are skilled at science and math, they might not understand what careers would suit their strengths. This is where a career assessment might be useful, and the school guidance counselor might have recommendationsor parents can search online for options like ACT Profile, a college and career planning platform that helps students identify majors and occupations that might fit their interests and abilities. The College Boards Big Future Major and Career Search tool is also a great resource for teens who know what theyre good at but arent sure what careers best highlight those assets. Encourage them to talk to real-world professionals. Sure, an internship in college is a great way to get hands-on experience in a field, but high school is a good time to figure out what career options appeal. Teens who are interested in medicine might spend time volunteering in a hospital or talking with a physician in private practice. Those convinced that acting is their calling can reach out to a local theater company and ask to talk to some of the people who work there about their experience. Parents can encourage their teens to check out job shadowing (and similar) opportunities through their guidance counseling offices, or proactively set up conversations and experiences on their own. Nudge them to get involved. Sports are an obvious extracurricular activity in high school, but teens should look beyond athletics for ways to get to know themselves. Many clubs and organizations lend members insights into different academic pursuits and careers. Look for clubs focused on math, science, entrepreneurship, journalism, foreign languages, debate, business, public speaking and art, to name a few possibilities. The hands-on nature of clubs fosters professional development while building responsibility and encouraging teens to think about their life purpose and future. Huntington reminds parents that most peoples careers are not a straight, narrow path. While parents want their teens to make the very most of the college investment, the real value in this process is that teens learn to assess their strengths and navigate their careers, she says. Its never too early to begin thinking about ones career plan, but life is a journey. Teens should explore opportunities, continually evaluate their strong suits, and keep an open mind as they move through their lives. About Huntington Huntington is the tutoring and test prep leader.Its certified tutors provide individualized instruction in reading, phonics, writing, study skills, elementary and middle school math, Algebra through Calculus, Chemistry, and other sciences. It preps for the SAT and ACT, as well as state and standardized exams. Huntington programs develop the skills, confidence, and motivation to help students succeed and meet the needs of Common Core State Standards. Founded in 1977, Huntingtons mission is to give every student the best education possible. Learn how Huntington can help. For franchise opportunities please visit www.huntingtonfranchise.com. 2018 Huntington Mark, LLC. Huntington Learning Center, the three-leaf logo, and 1 800 CAN LEARN are registered trademarks of Huntington Mark, LLC. Each franchised Huntington Learning Center is operated under a franchise agreement with Huntington Learning Centers, Inc.

5 Things to Think About Before Deciding On A College

5 Things to Think About Before Deciding On A College College decisions: 5 things to think about Students will soon be finding out which colleges and universities they were accepted to and will have a really big decision in front of them. There are lots of things for students to think about, mull over, and brainstorm before making this big four-year decision. Applicants should think about practical things like finances and career options as well as more social things like their living situation and ability to network. Although each student will have some pretty specific needs, there are some universal things that every high school senior should consider before making their choice didnt get into your top colleges? Our private Irvine college admissions consultants are here to help. 1.   Financial aid and scholarship options One of the most important and practical things high school seniors should consider is what their financial situation will be like once they start college. Will they have access to scholarships or financial aid directly from the university? Do they qualify for federal financial aid? Sometimes students can get financial aid money if they stay in state but not if they move away while others might be recruited from an out-of-state university based on a particular ability or skill. The amount of debt a student incurs in college can make a big difference once they graduate, so its essential to think about it in advance. 2.   The living situation A college freshmans living circumstances can change drastically from one university to another. Some colleges guarantee that all incoming freshmen will have a spot in the dorm while others have very little on-campus housing. Some students want to live in the dorms so they can network and be close to their classes while others dont want to deal with the hectic nature of on-campus living. Students are encouraged to investigate off-campus student housing prices as well as additional on-campus accommodations (READ: 10 Reasons Why You Need Summer Irvine Tutoring). 3.   Diversified academic programs Although many students think they know exactly what they want to study when they enter college, at least half of the students will change their mind before their junior year. Its a good idea to think about attending a university with diversified academic programs or at least a variety of subfields within one major. Having choices can make it a lot easier for students during those formative first two years, and it’s simpler to transfer from one department to another rather than transfer from one college to another. 4.   Making connections Some universities are known for being social while others have a reputation for being relatively quiet and reserved. Too much socialization can be a distraction, but its also important for students to be able to network and make connections for the future. Applications are encouraged to do a little bit of research on how successful alumni are in connecting with one another and whether not making connections at a particular campus will benefit them in their career. Does the University offer opportunities to network outside a particular major? Can current students make connections with successful alumni? 5.   Future career options Probably the most important thing applicants should consider is their future career options. Does the university offer students degrees that will provide them with a good starting salary? Do most recent graduates receive an offer of full-time employment within their field? How many good jobs are available in the surrounding cities or state the university is located in? Are there any major companies that recruit from that particular university? These are just some of the questions students should research before making their final decision. Still applying to college? Our private Irvine college admissions consultants are here to help. Our consultants have a 97% success rate. Call us today for more information. All blog entries, with the exception of guest bloggers, are written by Tutor Nerds. Are you an education professional? If so, email us at pr@tutornerds.com for guest blogging and collaborations. We want to make this the best free education resource in SoCal, so feel free to suggest what you would like to see us write

?? How Increasing the Amount of Natural Light in Your Home Can Benefit Your Children

?? How Increasing the Amount of Natural Light in Your Home Can Benefit Your Children How Increasing the Amount of Natural Light in Your Home Can Benefit Your Children Incorporating Natural Light Into Your Home Can Benefit Your ChildrenNatural light has a whole host of benefits, including the ability to improve moods and boost vitamin D absorption. But, with technological advancements meaning there are fewer reasons for children to spend time outdoors, therefore, it might be time to consider how you can increase the amount of natural light in your home.Getting kids to play outdoors isn't always easy, especially when there are video games to be played and television shows to watch. But, when they are regularly exposed to less and less natural light, this can lead to serious health problems â€" both mentally and physically. In fact, natural light is so important to health that Regulation 8 of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 makes it a legal requirement for all establishments â€" including schools â€" to encourage natural light wherever possible. However, it's not just schools that should be concerned with the amount of na tural light they let in, but also family homes, too. In this article, we will be sharing some of the main benefits that natural light can have for our children. It can improve their moodAs parents, you'll be familiar with the morning grumble when you're trying to get the kids out of bed but having ample natural light in their room and around your home can ensure morning moods don’t last. Natural light is a powerful resource for boosting your mood and therefore encouraging positivity â€" so much so that a recent study by Maruani and Geoffrey found that bright light is an effective therapy for individuals suffering from depression. This is certainly an important finding given that NHS statistics for 2017 reported an increase in mental health disorders in children aged 5â€"19 years old, bringing the total to 12.8% for that year.Additionally, there is evidence that UV rays from the sun can stimulate melanocytes â€" the cells responsible for the dark pigment in your skin â€" these cells also encourage endorphin production, leaving your children feeling good more often. So, if your child spends a lot of time cooped up in their room, you'll need to ensure that there is enough natural light coming through their windows. If they have an attic room that doesn't currently have sufficient lighting, getting a set of roof windows can be a fantastic solution. As well as maximising the amount of natural light your little one is exposed to, these also provide great ventilation which is said to be beneficial for your mental health. Plus, roof windows can be fitted with blackout blinds, putting you back in control of when it's bright or dark in your child's room.Help Get Better SleepAs with waking them up on a morning, getting your kids to sleep at night can certainly prove a stressful experience. But natural light has been found to solve some of these issues too and can help enhance sleep quality.Light dictates our circadian rhythm â€" the hours we spend awake and asleep â€" and can have an impact on everything from our metabolism to our body temperature. And, when we aren't exposed to enough of it, our body decides its own pattern to follow which is based on genetics might not be quite right for optimal functioning. If your child struggles to sleep on a night, it may be because he or she is not being exposed to enough natural light and therefore their body is deciding the sleeping and waking hours for itself. When natural light is readily available during the day, it can solve problems of insomnia at night by resetting the body and helping it to regulate patterns of sleep and wakefulness. Sleep is key for growing minds, click here to read our article on how sleep can affect academic performance It can boost their productivity and learning developmentWhether they're struggling to get through their homework or are trying to concentrate on their recreational hobbies, like reading, natural light can drive motivation and help your children to get through more and with a better focus. This is because humans are designed to function at their optimum levels during daylight and to sleep when it is dark.So much research has been done around this topic, with many studies indicating that bright light could have an effect on the ability for us to learn. This was supported by a 2018 study by Soler et al, who found that rats had better cognitive functioning when they had been exposed to daytime light each day. The results of studies like these indicate that when light is removed or not available in the correct quantities, it can disrupt normal functioning and interrupt your child's productivity. Help to promote healthy physical growthNatural light from the sun emits vitamin D, which is key for growth, calcium absorption, and promotes healthy bone development. It also makes your body more able to fight off any illnesses and diseases, including cancer and heart disease. This means that it's important to try and get your kids to spend as much time outdoors as possible.Similarly, exposure to natural light can help your child to regulate their body weight, as the blue light emitted by the sun has been found to cause the fat cells beneath the skin to shrink. This is supported by a report published in the Nature Research journal which suggested that sunlight may be directly related to weight loss. Natural light is crucial for us all, especially children in their early years of developing both mentally and physically. It's important that your kids spend time out in the fresh air, but also that your home invites enough natural light to benefit them, too. Consider the benefits I've la id out above and introduce some more light for happy and healthy kids! Written by David Knight from expert roof windows suppliers Roof Windows 4 You, He shares some of his insights from his many years in the industry surrounding the benefits that incorporating natural light into your home can have for your children.