Here at CBD, many students are beginning a new school year in line with the start of 2019.  With a full team of staff and faculty behind them, what better time to make a resolution- and keep it too?!  Start goals with plans and follow through, otherwise they’re just wishes.  Follow these tips and tricks, and don’t ditch your resolution this year.

13 Ways to Make (and Keep) a Resolution

1. Start Right Now!

January isn’t exactly the warmest or brightest month, but resolutions don’t have to wait until the New Year.  Anytime is a good time to start fresh!  Don’t hesitate for the most opportune moment to begin.  When your body and mind are in better shape, so is your will power. Use that momentum to start your resolution and keep a promise to yourself.

2. Make One Change At a Time

Most resolutions require behavioral changes.  However, just as unhealthy behaviors take time to stick, so does replacing or reverting the unhealthy behavior.  Our will power only has enough capacity for one change, not several at one time.  So focus on a change you actually want to make for yourself, not something you think you should want or what someone else wants for you. This will help you to not overwhelm yourself!  Your goals should challenge you, but you can’t do it all, and that’s okay!  Concentrate on all those little subcategories so you can give it your all.

3. Break It Down

Set a S.M.A.R.T. goal: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Timely.  Set a time frame for an objective that relates to your personal goals (eg: By the end of June, I want to interview for Cedar- Sinai in their Body Department).  Remember that sometimes a year is not enough, so assess that early on.  Get SUPER specific and clearly define your goals (eg: Practice scanning for an hour every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 5:30PM, and volunteer at Cedar every Friday).  You should be able to track your progress (eg: Measure the amount of successful scans, diagnoses, and accurate reports). and watch them grow!) Follow this for a template!  Think small acts of will, not weeks of strain, to achieve an attainable, relevant goal.  Once you meet those small changes, the easier it will be for you to keep going.  Most importantly, be patient.

4. Flex That Muscle

Will power is a muscle, so the more you use it the stronger it gets.  Think about it like leg day.  Keep consistency for two weeks and you’ll see more progress as opposed to taking on tasks that don’t call for self-control.  However, if you push too hard or push yourself under challenging circumstances (ie. Surrounding yourself with stressors and cupcakes, see tip /blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/12), you’re more likely to collapse under the weight of a dumbbell or cave for that sweet treat.  When times get tough, focus hard on the process rather than the end goal.

5. Pencil It In

Schedule it! “That which is scheduled gets done.” Make time.  So many make the excuse of “I don’t have time.”  That’s simply not true.  The time is there if you set it aside.  Even if all you have time for is 30 minutes, assess that in your SMART goal.  When someone says to you “Oh, I want to schedule a meeting for this day at this time,” you have the power to say “No, I’m sorry, I can’t.  I have something important scheduled I have to do at that time.”

6. Get Your Friends and Family Involved

Tell people about your goal.  Publicize your goal to friends, family, on Facebook, or make a Snapchat story!  Social support is critical.  It takes courage and vulnerability to tell others your dreams, and your friends will hold you accountable.

7. Avoid the All or Nothing

Turn your negative punishments into positive reinforcements and get happy! Watch a funny movie or do something that puts you in a good mood.  That little will power muscle will thank you for it.  If you’re trying to watch what you eat, change your mentality from taking a cheat day to making a treat day.  Turn those negative punishments into positive reinforcement.  Outwit that inner rebel by creating a reward for yourself rather than strict rules with loopholes.  Ultimately it’s better to do something than nothing.

8. Have Some Orange Juice

Practicing self-restraint, self-discipline, and will power reduces glucose levels in the brain.  Put some real- not from concentrate- or lemonade in that body!  It replenishes those glucose levels, making you more ready to take on the challenge.

9. It’s the Little Things

Remember the small victories, and don’t let minor slips be an excuse to quit altogether.  Make a list of 50 or 100 things you’re proud of -even if it’s just getting out of bed on a day when you’d rather not- to remind you how much will power you really have and remind yourself of your successes.  Don’t beat yourself up. Get back on the horse. Forgive yourself.

10.“Nice Shoes”

Hold a door open for 10 people a day.  Genuinely comment on someone’s outfit or hair five times a day.  Volunteer at a shelter once a week.  Keep it consistent and watch your feeling of personal power increase as you make someone’s day.  Release your tendency to blame your circumstances or others for not following through on your resolutions.

11.Write It Down

We humans are highly susceptible to visual cues.  Put your goal in a calendar, set a reminder on your phone, or make it your computer screensaver. Write it somewhere you can see it every day.  It can even be in multiple places.  It will remind you of when you first made that goal and will recapture the intensity of willing to attain it.

12. Recognize Your Own Self –Defeating Behaviors

Create an environment that will help you achieve your goals, and get away from whatever temptation is there until you’ve eaten and are rested.  Stress will wear you down, but you don’t have to let it.  Practice self-care

13.Don’t Be Afraid to Seek Professional Help

Come to the Student Resource Center and get information about counseling or talk out your goals with our Student Resources, Job Placement, and Career Services team.  Make an appointment with the 24 Hour Fitness Center on our first floor or visit your local gym for a membership

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51łÔąĎ&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;s Top  5 Tips on Applying for Jobs Without Experience

If you’re just out of college or embarking on a new career path, probably the most intimidating aspect of finding a job is coming up with relevant experience—because you have little to none.  Job searching without much work experience can be frustrating; employers will tell you that you need more experience, but how are you supposed to get it if no one will hire you?  How do you demonstrate to an employer that your skills, education, and experience are relevant to the job at hand?  It is essential to highlight the skills and abilities you already possess that are directly transferable across to the position you are applying for. You need to demonstrate that you have the ability and desire to constantly learn new skills, as well as have a strong commitment to self-leadership and, in turn, self-improvement.Whether you’re a recent graduate or a stay-at-home parent re-entering the workforce, here are 5 tips on applying for jobs without experience.

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If you’re a 51łÔąĎ student, you&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;re familiar with Career Edge.  That means you have the best tools and practices to conquer your job search.  It&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;s advice best exercised that the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving are a great time to find your next employment opportunity. Here are 51łÔąĎ&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;s five favorite tips to optimize your healthcare job search before the holidays.  (and then have your fill of turkey and pumpkin pie).

1. Double down on sending out resumes and networking!

Someone is always having a career fair, so be adamant about networking online.  Follow up with peers and reconnect with old classmates.  Polish up your resume and cover letter and make sure your 51łÔąĎ Career Edge Portfolio looks fantastic.  Make these weeks count!

2. Do your research!

Be clear about exactly what position you’re seeking (and ensure that your resume reflects it to best advantage).   You can always ask for advice at 51łÔąĎ Career Services to ensure that your resume will get you that all-important first interview. Give them a call or send an e-mail by clicking on the link!  Once you&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;ve scheduled an interview, really dive into your prospective employers website so that your questions and answers highlight the immediate, positive contributions you can make to their company.

3. Practice your interviewing skills with friends and family!

Conduct “role play” sessions before cranberry sauce is served, and have your loved ones ask you questions in an interview-style format. You&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;ll become more comfortable and be able to anticipate the kind of questions potential employers might pose.

4. Are there any gaps in your skill set?

What “value add” can you offer that will tip the employment scales in your favor?  If there are any gaps in your skill set, consider using continuing education classes, online training sites or volunteer opportunities to round out your knowledge base.

5. Solidify your references!

You certainly don’t want to make it through the interview process with flying colors only to lose the job because your former supervisor/HR representative gave you a lackluster (or negative) reference. Take charge of your career search by checking your own references and cross-checking with Career Services.

Thanksgiving will be here before you know it — take the steps above now to ensure you celebrate the holidays with a new healthcare job!

*Source: HealthcareCareers.com

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The best part about earning a degree or diploma is that you are now free to realize your life’s passion.  For 51łÔąĎ students, that may range anywhere from Diagnostic Ultrasound to Medical Assisting.  Now more than ever, those pursuing further education are looking towards non-profit healthcare career colleges to secure their futures.  Whether just out of high school or looking for a career change after 15 years, there are many reasons to  attend a non-profit Career College.  Here are our favorite 7.

1. It is less expensive for you.

Average tuition cost at for-profit colleges is $31,000 after grants vs. $26,600 for non-profit colleges.

2. The programs are flexible to your schedule.

A career school in not only a kind of educational institute, but a place where students gain industry experience.  Career colleges offer opportunities to a various range of students from different backgrounds and lifestyles.  Class times are flexible (51łÔąĎ offers day and night classes), which is perfect for students with jobs or children.  Even if you already like your job and simply want to learn a new skill or further your career, a career college can significantly boost your abilities.

3. Smaller class sizes mean you get more one-on-one time.

It is harder to learn in a crowd.  So most career colleges have class sizes that are smaller than public institutions- sometimes as few as a dozen. Labs specifically mirror the field.  Auditoriums benefit the smaller class sizes.  This allows for teamwork, really bonding and learning with peers, and a tighter connection with and access to instructors.  It also allows students of a particular course to interact with students from other courses. The staff and faculty focus on every student to offer personalized attention and to enable proper learning experiences and growth.

4. Your instructors have experience in your field of study.
   

Instructors at traditional four-year colleges cater to career educators, while, on the other hand, instructors at career colleges usually work or have worked in their respective fields.  Not only do they teach, but students gain a better understanding of job expectations from their instructors.

5. You get a shorter, focused curriculum.

Curriculums update based on the current state of the industry provided by advisory committees.   The focused coursework and career dedication makes it all possible.  Many career college programs are much shorter than 4-year degree programs from universities and colleges near you. Career colleges that offer medicine career paths are completed anywhere between 9 and 22 months, depending on the career in which you are interested.  Students have the option of beginning training nearly any time of the year, rather than just January and September like most 4-year universities.  It is important to review programs and their length before selecting one that is right for you.

6. You get hands on, practical experience.

Instead of a “lecture- based” and theory education, career colleges provide more hands-on, practical training to fit the exact career you are interested in upon completing your degree. Practical training helps to provide real-time experience in the field and industry you have the most interest in.  Today’s employers award jobs to those who already have experience and specific training. By attending a career college, you eliminate the extra step of having to attend a vocational school after you have already earned a degree in a general major.

7. It increases your chance to join the workforce faster.

If you are eager to get started and have a busy schedule, career colleges concentrate in accelerated programs so students may graduate and join the workforce faster than at a four-year college.  This  allows time for students to learn from soft skill programs.  These are the necessary skills and knowledge they need for building their careers.  51łÔąĎ also provides networking events twice a year.  This is a great way for you to branch out professionally and potentially land a new job.  51łÔąĎ’s placement rates generally fall above 70-85% depending on the program, which means you are more likely to find a job faster than those who graduate from a traditional four-year college.  Find out what sets 51łÔąĎ apart from other colleges and 4-year universities. To learn more about degree programs at 51łÔąĎ call 213-427-2200.

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Winter Break is almost here for 51łÔąĎ with the last day of classes being held December 23^rd.Ěý What’s approaching even faster is the return of students and faculty: Tuesday, January 3^rd, 2017! ĚýNow is theĚýtime to plan for a successful new year and new you. ĚýConsider these perks when choosing to get a college degree.

9 Benefits of Earning a College Degree in 2017

1. You Will Earn More Money

A college graduate earns more than a non-graduate.Ěý Plain and simple.Ěý Studies have shown that there is an average of $25,000 earnings difference between grads and non-grads. ĚýFurthermore, this gap is widening every year.Ěý The bottom line is that pursuing a degree increases the ability to find work in the same field, increasing experience and earning potential.

2. You Will Be More Attractive to Employers

On top of field training, college requires analytical and critical thinking, organization skills, and the ability to see a project through from start to finish.Ěý These proficiencies qualify graduates for a flexible range of employment in fields that offer more job openings, more upward mobility, and a lifetime of open doors. ĚýAdditionally, employers find that graduates exhibit a keen team-player attitude, strong decision-making, communication and an innate sense of self-discipline in a professional environment.

3. You Will Have Better Job Security and Satisfaction

College grads don’t just want a job to pay the bills, they want a career where they’ll feel more satisfied and secure.Ěý Studies have recently shown that compared to non-grads, college graduates holding a position in teaching or the medical field are less to likely to be laid off during recession.Ěý Factors including higher income, employment benefits, and opening doors would be why 60 percent of college graduates enjoy, find interest, and are inspired by their jobs. ĚýPlus, they are on average three times as happy when they report job satisfaction.

4. You Will Be Better Equipped to Handle Adversity

Today’s college graduates are earning their degrees in an economic downturn.Ěý They can weather any form of hardship.Ěý Employment rates of those with degrees increased by two percent in the first quarter of 2010, despite the recession, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Population Survey.Ěý Every other group saw numbers decline, with one in five losing their existing jobs compared to the one in one hundred of those with degrees.

5. You Build a Network

Attending an accredited college is a certain way to get in touch with fellow peers and alumni looking to fill open positions and achieve the same sort of success in the same career.Ěý In the right learning environment, socializing becomes the new job recommendation, which leads toĚýbetter opportunities with a good support system.

6. You Will Benefit Yourself and Your FamilyĚý

Earning a degree allows a graduate opportunities which provide better rewards, including but not limited to health care, retirement investment, and travel.Ěý Depending on a graduate’s position, these advantages add up to more than take-home pay, and this can make a vital difference, especially regarding healthcare for a family.Ěý Historically, families of college graduates are generally better off economically and socially.Ěý Degree holders have lower unemployment and consequently lower poverty rates, are more likely to read to their kids, and are twice as likely to be active in furthering their children’s higher education.

7. You Install a Down-Payment On Your Future

By attending college, graduates are locking down their own success.Ěý The cost of not going to college is rising, so much so that nine out of ten graduates are raving about the benefits they are reaping from the investment.Ěý Their own children are more likely to attend college with the future that their parents have secured, and they are less likely to live below the poverty line.

8. You Become Empowered and Create a Stronger Sense of SelfĚý

Besides a depth of knowledge in a field of study, graduates have a better understanding of responsibilities which impact their day-to-day existence: comprehendingĚý important contracts, understandingĚý how the markets influence retirement, and managing personal and familial finances.Ěý Those with a college education find themselves empowered to be more in control of their life.Ěý The amount of pride and self-worth found in obtaining a degree is enough for many to find agency to change their circumstances, ultimately transforming their society.

9. You Will Be Happier Overall

There are almost too many health benefits in achieving a degree!Ěý Where to begin? The likelihood of depression is reduced; the drive to exercise is boosted; the likelihood of becoming obese or have obese children is reduced; graduates are 70% less likely to have never smoked, and around 20% are trying or have already quit; degree holders are two and a half times more likely to vote; grads live, on average, nine years longer than those who don’t graduate from high school; they donate money and time to organizations more than those who haven’t sought out higher education, helping the youths and coming to the aid of religious groups.

Whether you’re currently a student at 51łÔąĎ or you’re looking to begin your vocational career on the right foot, there are many ways to get the most out of your career. ĚýTake pride in your school, and prepare for your future. ĚýClick here to learn more about 51łÔąĎ.

To learn more about the programs we offer, or to schedule an appointment, call 213-472-2200 or fill out the form atĚýright!

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1. Know where your money goes. This is the number one obvious idea that many people don&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;t follow. How can you possibly know how to save money if you don&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;t know what you spend it on? There are a growing number of online budgeting sites like www.budgetsimple.com that are available to help. You may also do this yourself simply by tracking your spending in a notebook or excel spreadsheet. Once documented, you’ll be surprised to see exactly where your money goes. Whatever you&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;ve been spending each month, try cutting it by 5 percent. Then cut it by another 5 percent the following month. Keep it up if you can, and put the savings in the bank or pay down debts.




2. Make a grocery list and don&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;t stray. Once you&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;ve tracked household spending, you will see how much you spend at the supermarket. What&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;s less clear is that you also probably spend a lot of money on things you don&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;t need. In our house, we began downsizing our grocery spending by seeing what we were throwing out and the items that had freezer burn and should have been tossed. This helped sensitize us to unnecessary purchases. We also save money by making fewer runs to the store. Your greatest savings come however, when you devise a weekly meal plan and stick to it! Create a shopping list for that plan, and then buy nothing but what&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;s on that list. In addition, never go grocery shopping when you’re hungry! Hungry shopping can lead to extra impulse purchases that would not have made the shopping cart otherwise.




3. Mothball a car. If your household has two cars, try leaving one in the garage for a month. See how it affects your life. You may be surprised that with a modest amount of planning and use of affordable public transportation, a lot of households may be able to make do with only one household vehicle. Once you&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;ve determined that this in fact is a viable option, sell the second car, save the money or start paying down other debts. As an added bonus, begin enjoying lower bills for auto insurance, gasoline, and maintenance.




4. Trim television services. I know this sounds crazy, we all love our cable, but if times get rough, one of the easiest ways to cut spending is to wave goodbye to a bundle of monthly cable charges. Install a digital antenna and start using free video sites like YouTube and cable network websites that often post full episodes online free of charge. Other options include using media services like Netflix and Hulu that offer a wide array of media for a fairly low monthly charge.




5. Recheck insurance rates. Do some comparison shopping and explore the option of replacing your current insurance coverages. You may end up saving a bundle. When you’ve had your auto, home, life, and other insurance policies in place for several years, it&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;s easy to forget those annual bump-ups in premiums. They really add up after a while. Furthermore, while constantly rising health insurance rates may make it seem like premiums can only move in an upward direction, that&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;s not true. When you do shop around, you also may discover that your coverage needs have changed. If your cars are the same ones you had five years ago, for example, you probably don&/blog/category/financial-literacy/feed/8217;t need as much collision insurance as you once did.

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