• Live for Today – Learn for Tomorrow

     

    By Jeffrey Cox, iStudySmart.com Military Educational Consultant

     

    Liberty is the most precious of gifts. My generation never had to fight for this freedom, it was offered to us on a silver platter, by people who fought for it with their lives.  All throughout the United States, cemeteries remind us of the young men, and women who never made it home, and whose memory we now cherish.  My generation does not own this freedom; we are merely its custodians.  

    The fundamental right to education is a benefit of the freedom that was fought so dearly for.  As Americans, we recognize education as a critical building block for our future.  The immediate and long-term benefits and opportunities that a quality education offers are key to national development and to individual freedom.

    Quality educational programs and opportunities are available for military personnel and their families through iStudySmart.com. Soldiers and their families can complete college credit and earn their degree.

    For more information about iStudySmart.com and how you can receive military discounts, contact me today at 1-800-737-2222, ext. 1421

     Life is too short to think small. Remember to live for today and learn for tomorrow.

    ###

    Jeff Cox served in the Marine Corps, where he held several different positions and responsibilities including:

    ·         Education Program Administrator

    ·         Planned and scheduled the troops for local academic programs to be conducted on base

    ·         Monitored students’ educational progress

    ·         Maintain education rosters, off-duty education reports, and voluntary education program/ethnic education reports

    ·         Aided Marines in completing their educational goals


    Jeff can be contacted at 1-800-737-2222  ext. 1421

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  • 2 Smart Ways to Cut College Costs

    The fall semester is starting soon and it’s time to think about returning to college. You know why you want more education but you’re not sure about the how.

     

    College fees and tuition have increased over the past years, with the greatest increase being in public universities, according to an annual survey by the College Board. The College Board creates and administrates standardized tests such as SAT, AP and CLEP.

     

     

    Your schedule is more jammed than ever and money may be an issue. Is it possible to cut costs, save time and still get the education you need?

    The answer is yes – if you utilize a shortcut known as credit by examination or “testing out.” More than 3,800 colleges and universities offer credit by passing CLEP, DSST and ECE exams. You pass the test and get the credit, whether you’ve attended a class or not. These exams allow you to complete college credit for what you already know or to self-study and bypass classroom time.

     

     

    The “Testing Out” Option

    Some schools offer their own proficiency exams, which complete credit for those schools only.  For example, Excelsior College offers ECE exams. There are a few colleges that accept credit for ECE exams, but, generally, the credit completed by a school’s specific exam is not transferable if you transfer to another school.

     

    How Many Credits Can You Get?

    The number varies from college to college and sometimes even by department. But many schools allow you to complete up to 30 credit hours this way.

     

    If you have a program or school of interest, ask admissions these questions:

     

    ·         Do you accept credit by examination?

    ·         Do you only accept certain exams?

    ·         What are the passing scores?

    ·         Is there a transfer fee for these credits?

     

    The fees for taking tests are generally between $77 and $355. Many college testing centers administer the tests, even if you are not a student at that school.

     

     

    The Self-Study Option

    Suppose you don’t have the knowledge of the exam yet and would like to study at home instead. How do you get ready for such an exam?

     

    There are companies that sell study guides for students who want to complete college credit by testing out and need to prepare for the test. Some of these guides are simply outlines and some are more in-depth. If you go to the website for a particular exam, the information about the tests also includes a bibliography. It may be that your local library has the books you need to prepare for the test.

     

     

    You may be thinking, “This is too good to be true. What’s the catch?” Here’s one: self-study requires some discipline. With a little effort, it’s possible to study at your own pace, in your own space and save on class time. If you test out of an introductory course or elective, you can move more quickly into advanced courses and core classes.

     

     

    This clearly saves you time – and money! You save the cost of sitting in class, not only in tuition fees, but in missed work to attend class, babysitting costs, gas, etc.

     

     

    So complete college for you what you know – or will know with home study. It’s a smart way to get an education!

     

     

    For more information, contact an iStudySmart.com Educational Consultant at 1-800-737-2222.

    - Article by Sue Perkins, iStudySmart.com

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  • RN Dies After Saving Coach with CPR - Help Needed!

    Eileen Bowden, RN, School Nurse for Santa Clara School District, died shortly after the softball coach she ultimately saved with CPR was rushed to the hospital. Eileen was an inspiration to the profession and to what is good in our society. Eileen was a single parent and leaves behind an 11 year old adopted daughter. To learn more about Eileen please visit

    http://www.ktvu.com/news/19339312/detail.html

     

    The Eileen Bowden Memorial Scholarship has been established through the Foundation of the National Student Nurses’ Association. This scholarship will support nursing students as they strive to as they make the personal sacrifices required to emulate professional excellence exemplified by Eileen.

     

    To support this effort, I will be running the San Francisco Half Marathon for the second year in a row on July 25th to raise funds to endow The Eileen Bowden Memorial Scholarship. Please visit my website at http://charity.decisioncritical.com and make a donation to support the future of Nursing. We all need nurses like Eileen.

     

    Thank you for your support,

    Kenneth W. Dion, RN, MSN, MBA

    Founder & CEO

    Decision Critical, Inc

     

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  • Nursing Students: Go to School in Your Pajamas!

    Thousands of people go to school in their pajamas every day.  By using distance learning to obtain your Associate’s Degree in Nursing, you can enjoy studying in a relaxed atmosphere while working toward your goal of becoming an RN.

     

    Advancing your career from LPN to RN, Paramedic to RN, or RT to RN is your ticket to job security!  While it can be challenging for some to commute back and forth to school and figuring out child care while balancing a full schedule, distance learning students don’t have those things to worry about.  If you are a Licensed Practical Nurse, Paramedic, or Respiratory Therapist looking to become an RN, distance learning is a convenient solution for you.  Distance learning programs allow you to take courses from the comfort and convenience of your home or during your downtime! 

     

    Don’t waste time and money commuting back and forth to school several times a week, just pull up a chair and get started wherever you’re comfortable. 

     

    Don’t arrange and incur the extra expense for a babysitter to watch your kids while you’re at class on campus several times a week.  You can be in your home with them studying while they do their homework or play.

     

    Don’t rearrange your work schedule for school, simply study when you want and test when you’re ready.  If you learn better early in the day, during down time at work, while your child practices baseball, or late into the evening, that’s perfect!  You decide when, where, and how long!

     

    The demands of a family, a full or part-time job, and other responsibilities can make the thought of getting your Associate’s Degree in Nursing seem like a dream that will never become a reality.  However, with the convenience and flexibility of distance learning nursing degree programs you can move from LPN to RN, Paramedic to RN, or RT to RN without disrupting your entire life.

     

    If you want to earn your ASN degree, but would not have to drive to a college campus, iStudySmart.com has the in-depth study materials you need to complete college credit using CLEP, DSST, and ECE exams.  iStudySmart.com courses cover every concept you'll see on test day. Complete the assignments and you'll know what you need to know. It’s guaranteed!

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  • SUMMER GIVEAWAY: Enter to Win a Apple iPod Touch!

    Don’t let the Summer Slip Away Without Entering!

    Our goal at iStudySmart.com is to give you distance learning options that save you time, save you money, and help you advance your career. This summer we’re going to help one of you take some fun technology with you wherever you go! Use your new iPod Touch to listen to music, watch videos, play games, surf the web, or maybe some of each. Don’t let the summer slip away without entering! There are 2 easy ways to enter.

    How to Enter?*

    1. Send Us Your Success Story for 1 Entry
      • Go to the Success Story page and click the “Add Your Success Story” Link
    2. Make a Purchase from iStudySmart.com for 1 Entry
      • By making a purchase between 6/1 and 7/31 you are automatically entered
    3. Refer a Friend or Coworker for 1 Entry
      • Send your referral via email – you get one entry for EVERY new qualified person you refer!
    4. Make a SmartClub Purchase for a DOUBLE Entry
      • By making a SmartClub purchase between 6/1 and 7/31 you automatically get a double entry Enter to Win TODAY!

    About the Apple iPod Touch**

    • 8GB capacity
    • iPod touch 3.1 software
    • Multi-Touch touch screen interface
    • Brilliant 3.5-inch widescreen display
    • Built-in Wi-Fi
    • Download apps
    • Listen to music
    • Watch movies, videos, and TV shows
    • Surf the web
    • View email, and more

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  • Introducing Jeff Cox, Military Educational Consultant

    iStudySmart.com is pleased to announce Jeff Cox, Military Educational Consultant. Though he is new to iStudySmart.com, Jeff’s extensive background in education as well as military makes him empathetic to the military student looking to complete college credit while on active duty. Among others, his highlights include:

    ·         United States Marine Corps Education Program Administrator and Career Planner

    ·         Central Intelligence Agency Federal Police Officer

    ·         Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

    ·         Supervisor of up to 39 Troops and Candidates

    ·         Recipient of Special Achievement Awards; Exceptional Performance Awards; Good Conduct Medal and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon

    Irregular schedules, deployments reassignments, and family commitments challenge a soldier’s persistence to pursue their education while serving our country. Jeff is looking forward to assisting military personnel with the best self-paced study program that suits their needs to obtain a quality education.

    Jeff can also assist  military students and their families with iStudySmart.com military discounts such as:

    ·         Exclusive Military Pricing for SmartSolution

    ·         Courses as Low as $55 Each (Based on One Year SmartClub Membership)

    ·         Locating Testing Centers – Tests are FREE on Base!

    Remember: previously, retests of credit-by-exams were available to service members at no cost. However, DANTES will no longer fun retesting on a previously funded exam title for CLEP, DSST and ECE exams.

    Please contact Jeff at 1-800-230-7565 x1421 to discuss how iStudySmart.com can help you complete college credit, pass exams on the first try and work toward your educational goals while serving your country.

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  • What You Need to Know About Online Learning

    iStudySmart.com has entered into an educational alliance with Kaplan University. By partnering with Kaplan, iStudySmart.com is helping you earn a degree online, at a reduced tuition rate, so that you can have a richer career.

     

    What is online learning all about?

    As an accredited university, Kaplan University has demonstrated that it meets the rigorous standards of quality established by higher education accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. 

     

    The increased awareness of the quality of online degree programs is also driving greater acceptance by both adult learners and employers. Eduventures, an independent education research company, recently highlighted the following statistics regarding online degree enrollment: 

     

    • By 2010, online learners will represent 10 percent of all degree-seeking students.
    • Enrollment in online degree programs is the principal force driving growth in U.S. postsecondary education enrollment.
    • Online academic institutions (like Kaplan University) grew enrollment by 54 percent since 2004 versus only 7 percent enrollment growth by traditional nonprofit universities. 

    Online degree programs greatly appeal to adult learners for a variety of reasons. First, Fortune 500 corporations are establishing alliances with online universities, like Kaplan, as a way to further educate their employees. These alliances provide employees with a reduced tuition rate, which allows them to maximize their company’s tuition assistance program.

     

    Kaplan University’s online degree programs also allow you to pursue your degree while maintaining your career and family commitments. You can continue to focus on your career while obtaining the new knowledge and educational background often required for advanced career success. 

     

    Lastly, Kaplan University’s online courses allow you to work on projects that reflect your interest and work responsibilities, allowing you to connect your learning to your existing knowledge base and work experience.

     

    Is Kaplan University a respected education provider?

    Kaplan University has over 100 different degree programs in a variety of disciplines including business, criminal justice, education, information technology, legal studies, and health care. Many programs allow you to tailor your educational program to your career goals.

     

    It is also important to know that we are part of a company that has a long history and tradition of being an academic pioneer and career-maker. Founded in 1938, Kaplan, Inc., is a leading global provider of educational and career services for individuals, schools, and businesses. The company serves more than one million students annually and has four main areas of focus: Kaplan Kids and Schools, Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions, Kaplan Professional, and Kaplan Higher Education, of which Kaplan University is a part. A subsidiary of The Washington Post Company, Kaplan Inc., had 2007 revenues of more than $2 billion. Earning your degree at Kaplan University means that you can become part of this rich tradition of quality education.

    Do I have what it takes to be a successful online student?

    If you are a working professional hungry to pursue new career possibilities, an online degree is definitely worth considering. Yet, while Kaplan University can provide the rigorous online educational experience you are looking for, only you can determine if it is right for you.  Successful online learners …   

     

    • Show self-motivation: Successful online learners understand that the freedom and flexibility provided by online programs comes with individual responsibility because most of the online learning happens on your schedule. Learning online requires a student to be committed to their educational goals.  
    • Make a time commitment: One of the myths about online education is that it is easier than traditional classroom programs. That is not the case. Online programs offer a rigorous academic experience; they just happen to be more flexible and accommodating to working adult learners.
    • Have a support system: Successful online learners do a wonderful job of eliciting the support of work colleagues, family, and friends. Because of the time commitment involved in pursuing a degree online, it helps to surround yourself with people who respect what you are trying to do. 

    How do I learn more about enrolling at Kaplan University?

    If you are ready to pursue your goal of earning a degree online and feel that Kaplan University is the right choice for you, contact a Kaplan University Admissions Advisor to get started. Your Admissions Advisor will determine if you have transfer credits or experiences which could count toward your degree. They will also figure out which program is right for you based on your career goals. Lastly, your Admissions Advisor will explain financial options including how to maximize the reduced tuition rate provided to all Nurse Together employees.

     

    To learn more and to get started, check out the Kaplan University website designed for iStudySmart.com at www.istudysmart.kaplan.edu or call 800.926.9836 (Toll Free).

     

    --  Article by Dr. Robert Rodriguez, Assistant Dean at Kaplan University

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  • Nurses Wanted!

    Job postings are popping up around the nation because the aging population requires more care and existing nurses are retiring. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the healthcare career field to be within the top ten fastest growing jobs from now to 2018. The Bureau also reports that on average, nursing degree holders make between $51,640 to $76,570 annually with great benefits, job security and advancement opportunities.

    Now is the time to begin your nursing education and working toward fulfilling your career goals. With advancements in education, you can work toward your nursing degree in the comfort of your own home! Distance learning nursing degree programs are an alternative to traditional college programs and provide several benefits to nursing students …

    • Convenience -- Work at your own pace and study when it’s convenient for you.
    • Save On Money -- Distance learning programs don’t require you to drive to campus, which helps you save on gas costs.
    • Flexible Schedules -- Because you don’t need to commit to being in class at a set day and time each week, you’re able to balance your family, work and social commitments with your studies
    • Earn Your Degree Sooner -- Distance learning nursing degree programs typically move faster than traditional college programs.  While traditional classes are usually 16 weeks long, with distance learning you can study as quickly as you want.

    iStudySmart.com can help nursing students test out of general education and nursing subjects and complete college credit. For more information, visit http://www.istudysmart.com/fpage.asp?fpid=51 or call 800-737-2222.

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  • iStudySmart.com Honors & Remembers Those Who Served

    This Memorial Day, iStudySmart.com would like to honor and remember those who are back home and safe, those still serving and those who are remembered in our hearts. We wish all of you a happy and safe Memorial Day weekend!

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  • Is There Such a Thing as a Recession-Proof Job?

    A recession-proof job is something that is going to continually be in demand and something that cannot be outsourced.  Healthcare is at the top of the list of recession-proof jobs.

     

    The baby-boomer generation is aging.  Nurses and other healthcare professionals in the industry now are retiring and they themselves will need care.  This makes healthcare an industry that is going to grow in terms of demand.

     

    According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, ten out of the 20 fastest growing occupations are in healthcare. Between now and 2018, the healthcare field will generate 3.2 million new wage and salary jobs. This means more openings for healthcare professionals, and the opportunity to find placement within the field after completing a healthcare degree.

     

    Where to find the jobs

    Jobs in healthcare are found throughout the country, but they are concentrated in the larger states such as Florida. A 2009 report by the Florida Center for Nursing identifies two important points for potential Florida healthcare workers:

    • The potential nurse workforce in Florida – those with an active license, eligibility to practice, and a Florida address – increased by 5.4% over two years.
    • Florida’s nursing jobs can be found not only in hospitals, but in home health agencies and nursing facilities.
    • These points reflect the growth of Florida’s healthcare career field and the chance to break into the industry.

    How to begin a healthcare career

    The first step in pursuing a healthcare career is by completing a certification, licensure or obtaining a college degree. For those looking to spring board into this career field, completing college credit by examination is an ideal choice.

     

    iStudySmart.com provides students the tools they need to  test out of CLEP, DSST (formerly known as DANTES Subject Standardized Test) and Excelsior College exams. For healthcare students, in particular, iStudySmart.com offers a wide variety of courses for those working toward an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing.

     

    Why Choose iStudySmart.com

    Completing college credit by examination through iStudySmart.com allows students the flexibility to study at their own pace and in an environment that’s most comfortable for them. The traditional college classroom is eliminated, but the support and assistance needed to pass the exams is still there.

     

    iStudySmart.com’s courses are affordable and available in three formats: online, workbooks or CD-ROMs. Discounts are available for HCA employees and a referral rewards program is offered to all students.

     

    For more information, visit www.iStudySmart.com or call 800-737-2222.

     

     

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