Apostrophes can be tricky. It’s not always easy to determine when you need an apostrophe, and when you don’t.

For this lesson in grammar, we’ll explore the different uses for apostrophes and some common mistakes to avoid.

1. Apostrophes and possession

Apostrophes are used to indicate possession or ownership.

• For example: My brother’s shoes are orange.

Adding apostrophe + s makes it clear that your brother owns the shoes. This rule is true for most singular nouns and plural nouns that do not end in s.

• Singular noun, possessive
  • The boy’s toy
  • The cat’s tail
  • The building’s foundation

• Plural noun, possessive
  • The children’s playground
  • The women’s bathroom
  • The geese’s pond

Here’s where it can get a little tricky: For plural nouns or words that do end in s, you only need to add an apostrophe to signal possession.

• Plural noun ending in s:
  • The babies’ cribs rocked.
  • The kids’ room was a mess.
  • The siblings’ names all started with A.

For proper nouns that end in s, consult a style guide to determine the appropriate punctuation. The AP Stylebook, used by most American newspapers as well as businesses and other institutions, says that you only need an apostrophe after a proper noun that ends in s.

• Thomas’ train rolled down the hill.
• James’ car broke down.
• Chris’ favorite TV show is “Game of Thrones.”

2. Apostrophes and contractions

Another major use of apostrophes – one that you’ve already seen in this blog post – is contractions. A contraction is when you take two words and combine them through the use of an apostrophe.

• For example: I don’t want to do that.

The apostrophe signifies that you have combined “do not” into one word and takes the place of the missing letter o.

Contractions are often used in casual writing or speech. The use of a contraction can also help you convey a certain tone or accent. For example, the saying “y’all” is a contraction of “you all” and is often used in the American South.

3. Abbreviations and omissions

Apostrophes can also be used to show the omission of letters or numbers. You’ll most commonly see this in dates and mailing addresses, but sometimes they are used in normal sentences as well.

When abbreviating a year, you leave out the first two numbers and replace them with an apostrophe.

• I graduated in ’99.

When you use an apostrophe to omit letters from a normal sentence, this is often an attempt to convey common speech or slang. Sometimes, a grammatically incorrect version of a word is simply how people speak and you want to convey that accurately.

• Helpin’ yourself, are you?
• Can I ask you somethin’?

4. Special cases and exceptions

Plural abbreviations

For the most part, apostrophes do NOT turn a word into its plural form. The only exception is when you have abbreviations that include periods between letters, such as M.D.

• Ph.D. |Ph.D.’s (plural form)
• M.D. | M.D.’s (plural form)

In this case, the apostrophe exists to make the abbreviation easier to read in a plural form.

It’s and its

Another BIG exception is its and it’s. In this case, apostrophe + s does not indicate the possessive form.

It’s is actually a contraction of “it is.” 

• It’s raining outside.
• It’s not too late.
• It’s okay.

Its (with no apostrophe) is the possessive form.

• The street got its name from a prominent politician.
• The trashcan was tipped on its side.
• The dog found its way home.

Keep these apostrophe rules and exceptions in mind next time you write, and don’t hesitate to visit our Writing Center for more one-on-one grammar help!

As organizations adapt to an increasingly digital business environment, demand for skilled IT professionals continues to grow. In fact, many of today’s most in-demand hard skills are tech-focused skills, such as cloud computing, mobile application development and UX design, according to a LinkedIn survey.

Whether you’re just beginning your technology career or looking to advance in the field, an IT education from Herzing can help you reach your career goals. With a unique focus on practical problem solving, management and leadership skills, our IT programs are designed to prepare you for success in today and tomorrow’s technology marketplace.

As a Herzing technology student, you can:

1. Access hands-on learning from anywhere

At Herzing, you’ll have the opportunity to work with the latest hardware and software. On-campus students will have access to technology labs equipped with state-of-the-industry technology, including Cisco routers and switches. Online students will have the ability to access these labs remotely and schedule time working with networking devices, as well as servers running virtualized solutions from Red Hat, VMware and many other leading software providers. All of these resources can be conveniently accessed via the web from any computer with a supported browser.

2. Prepare for some of the fastest-growing careers today

Computer and information technology is one of the fastest-growing career fields today, and is expected to add more than 550,000 new jobs through 2026, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Experts predict much of the future growth in IT will be driven by a greater emphasis on cloud computing, big data and cybersecurity. Our IT degree programs prepare students for a high-tech and high-demand career by combining theory with hands-on training in network administration, IT security, software development and telecommunications.

3. Earn industry-recognized certifications

In addition to earning your degree, you’ll have the opportunity to prepare for up to seven sought-after industry certifications. The cost for the MCP, Security+ and CCNA exams are included in your tuition, and you’ll also have access to discounted pricing on many more certifications from providers like CompTIA and Microsoft.

Industry-recognized certifications can be valuable differentiators for new IT professionals entering the workforce. According to a recent study from CompTIA, 91 percent of employers believe that IT certifications are a reliable predictor of a successful employee and can help candidates prove they have the knowledge and skills needed to get the job done.

4. Learn from experienced faculty

Many of our faculty currently work as professionals in the IT industry and they bring their real-world experience to the classroom. Many of our students appreciate that their instructors can offer real examples and use their personal technology experience to provide context for the concepts discussed in class.

5. Gain experience with cutting-edge software

While enrolled at Herzing, you’ll have access to a broad catalog of academically licensed software from Microsoft and VMware, at no additional cost. This allows you to apply the skills you learn in class to real-world scenarios, preparing you for the situations you’ll encounter as an IT professional.

6. Develop soft skills needed for career advancement

Like other career roles, today’s technology positions, particularly management and leadership roles, require soft skills like communication, collaboration, and customer service. Group work, presentations and capstone projects help our technology students cultivate these fundamental soft skills that are essential for career advancement.

7. Explore a wide range of technology disciplines

Some institutions focus on single technologies or languages, but as a Herzing IT student, you’ll be exposed to a wide variety of technologies in your particular area of study. Our programs include coursework in vital areas such as cloud computing, virtualization, cybersecurity and data analytics – skills that can translate across industries and geographies. Additionally, all Herzing technology programs include foundational instruction in computer hardware, software and programming languages, so students are prepared to pursue a wide range of entry-level technology roles after graduation.

8. Choose from seven different technology majors

Whether you’re looking for a career in network and systems administration, cybersecurity, data analysis, mobile applications or software development, Herzing can help you expand your possibilities. We offer seven undergraduate technology majors.

Additionally, you can choose from six graduate concentrations through the MBA program, including Technology Management and Project Management. These concentrations empower you to customize your technology degree to fit your career goals.

9. Take advantage of dual credit

You can save time and money on earning your graduate degree through Herzing’s dual credit option. Students enrolled in a bachelor’s IT program can earn up to 12 credits toward their Herzing MBA as an undergraduate. An MBA is a wise investment that will provide you with the analytical, problem-solving, management and leadership skills to advance your IT career or start your own business.

10. Transfer credits to save time on your degree

We help students translate the learning they’ve gained outside the classroom into college credit, so they can maximize their time at Herzing. Many students obtain transfer credit from previous coursework and training, work experience, or military experience.

Interested in learning more? Explore our technology degree programs and find out how you get started on your career today.

There has never been a better time to begin a nursing career. With high employment growth and ample opportunities for advancement, more and more adults are looking to nursing as an attractive second career option.

However, some nursing degree programs can take years to complete, and being in school for that long isn’t always an option for those who are looking to jumpstart a new career.

To help a growing number of adults make the switch, colleges and universities have rolled out accelerated programs that provide a fast track to a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree.

Wondering if an accelerated BSN program is right for you? Here’s what you need to know:

What is an accelerated nursing program?

Accelerated programs are designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. Students enrolled in an accelerated BSN program can receive transfer credit for general education courses they completed during their previous undergraduate studies, allowing them to begin their nursing classes faster and start preparing for the nursing workforce.

If all your general education and science courses transfer, you can complete an accelerated program and earn your BSN in as few as 16 months. That’s half the time it would take you to complete a traditional BSN degree program.

Is an accelerated nursing program right for you?

If you’re looking to earn your BSN as quickly as possible, then an accelerated program might be the best option for you.

It’s important to keep in mind, however, that an accelerated program moves very quickly. You can expect fast-paced learning, with no traditional breaks over the course of the 16 months. While nursing school can be challenging in general, the compressed time frame of an accelerated program can make it more demanding.

Of course, you will have strong support every step of the way from your instructors, career advisors and your nursing cohort. For Kate Frkovich, a student in Herzing-Brookfield’s ABSN program, that has made all the difference.

“I obtained my philosophy degree from UW Madison in 2003, so I hadn’t taken a science course in years. I thought that medicine and healthcare was a door that had closed for me a long time ago,” she says. “I had anxiety about making a switch, but I wanted to bet on myself. Now, my life is on a new path and I am growing even more confident in my decision to pursue my BSN and a career I’m passionate about.”

Here are some other benefits of choosing an accelerated program:

1. Take advantage of fast-growing employment opportunities

A bachelor’s degree is becoming the new educational standard for registered nurses, as hospitals and other healthcare organizations respond to the Institute of Medicine’s call to increase their bachelors-prepared RN staff to 80 percent by 2020. Today, many hospitals are only seeking to hire BSN-prepared nurses — or those who are committed to going back to school!

With a BSN, you’ll not only have a competitive advantage in landing a job after graduation, but you’ll also have better opportunities for career growth and advancement, as well as the option to continue your education through a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program.

2. Boost your earning potential

A BSN-prepared nurse might advance into higher-paying management and leadership roles more quickly than an ASN nurse. By enrolling in an accelerated BSN program, you can ensure land a nursing job with high earning potential as soon as possible.

The median salary for a registered nurse was $75,510 in 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. To learn more, see our chart of average BSN nurse salary by state.

3. Earn dual credit toward your MSN

Through Herzing’s ABSN program, you can get a jump start on your MSN degree. Eligible students can take advantage of Herzing’s dual-credit option to complete up to four graduate-level courses as part of their ABSN program. This is a huge time and money saver, allowing you to begin your nursing career and plan for career advancement at the same time.

What if I’m not ready for an accelerated BSN program?

An accelerated program might not be the best fit for you– and that’s okay! If you’re worried about the demands of a 16-month program, rest assured: there are several other pathways you can take to a nursing degree that might allow you to work at a more comfortable pace.

For example, you may be able to apply credits from your prior degree to a traditional BSN degree program. Typically, these programs take up to three years to complete when attending full-time, but you could reduce your time to get the degree through your transfer credit. Additionally, a more flexible course schedule, combined with online course offerings, might allow for a more feasible work-life-school balance.

Earning your associate degree in nursing (ASN) is also a quick path to becoming a registered nurse. Many nurses start out by earning their ASN and choose to advance their education through a bachelor’s or master’s degree program later on. You can earn your ASN in as little as two years, depending on your transfer credits.

It’s our goal to help you succeed in your second career, and our career advisors can work with you to determine which program is the best fit for your needs. Learn more about our nursing programs and find out how you can get started on your journey today!

What can I do with a BSN degree besides patient care?

Life as a registered nurse (RN) isn’t always easy. While working with patients can be rewarding, it’s not without its challenges. Some nurses find they are more suited for roles outside of patient care, and there are many that still allow them to make a difference.

If you’re an RN with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, there are many non-clinical nursing jobs you can pursue. Here are some ideas to help you find a nursing career you can thrive in.

1. Become a nurse educator

Teaching is one of the best jobs for nurses who love helping people, but want to move away from full-time patient care. A good nurse educator has:

• An advanced degree and strong academic background
• Deep clinical experience
• Excellent communication skills
• A desire to make a difference
• Eagerness to share their expertise with others

If this sounds like you, a career as a nurse educator could be a great fit. You can work as a staff development educator in a clinical environment, or as a professor or faculty member at a university or college. In most cases, you will need a master’s degree in nursing (MSN) to qualify for a position as a nurse educator.

Herzing University offers an online MSN in Nursing Education for nurses looking to take the next step in their career. In order to qualify for the program, you must have a BSN degree. You can complete the online program in as few as 16 months when you attend full-time, but many students choose to attend part-time for added flexibility and the ability to work at a more comfortable pace.

2. Pursue a leadership role

If you have a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience, you can position yourself for roles in nursing leadership, management or administration. Potential jobs include:

• Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)
• Direct of Nursing
• Nurse Manager
• Nurse Administrator
• Healthcare Manager

You won’t necessarily have to leave your place of employment to advance to one of these roles. As healthcare organizations deal with a growing patient population and a shortage of skilled healthcare professionals, nurses with advanced knowledge and skills are in high demand.

An MSN program focused on leadership and administration will not only help you bring your career to the next level, but it will also provide you with the management and organizational knowledge you need to succeed in a leadership role.

Herzing offers an online MSN in Leadership and Administration program that can be completed in as little as 16 months.

3. Explore careers in Information Technology (IT)

Information technology is an excellent path if you are looking to get away from high-stress jobs in patient care, but still want to have a measurable impact on the delivery of healthcare. Nursing IT careers are increasingly important as technology continues to redefine the healthcare industry.

For example, nurse informatics specialists function as a “technology liaison” for hospital staff, while still performing select nursing duties. They might be involved in designing and testing new information solutions, or implementing new processes to improve patient care.

A career in nursing informatics also offers diverse career pathways with many opportunities for career advancement. Often, informatics specialists will pursue more advanced roles, such as nurse manager or Chief Nursing Informatics Officer

4. Consider work-from-home nursing jobs

A traditional job as a registered nurse requires you to practice in a clinical environment. However, there are positions that may allow you to provide nursing care and instruction remotely, such as:

• Telemedicine nurse
• Nurse case manager
• Legal nurse consultant
• Nurse informatics specialist

For self-motivated individuals with excellent communication skills and a strong background in a specialty area of nursing, a work-from-home job may be a possibility for you.

5. Work for an insurance company

Nurses can be an excellent resource for insurance companies. Insurance companies look for maximum transparency about healthcare processes and costs so that they can evaluate risk and set rates as accurately as possible. Nurses are valuable in collecting that data, interpreting it correctly and understanding how to act on it.

A nurse working for an insurance company may perform clinical research, audits or medical coding. Possible job titles include Health Coach Consultant or Quality Management Nurse Consultant. This is an excellent choice for nurses who are looking for a non-clinical job, since many positions will be in a typical office setting and some may allow for remote work.

6. Consider a career in pharmaceuticals

Nurses with extensive experience in a certain specialty are a great asset for companies who manufacture pharmaceuticals. For example, a nurse who specializes in pediatrics can play a crucial role in the development of medicine for children as a consultant, researcher or educator.

Working as a pharmaceutical sales representative can also be a smooth career transition for a nurse, given their medical expertise and their exceptional communication skills.

7. Explore your other patient care options

If none of these options sound appealing, you may want to re-evaluate what’s really giving you doubts about life as an RN. There are many types of registered nurses with unique roles in patient care, and you may find less stress in an alternative.

For example, if working as a trauma nurse proves to be too taxing, becoming a school nurse or clinic nurse might be the change of pace that you need.

As you evaluate your options, keep these nursing specialties in mind:

• Travel nurse. Love to travel? As a travel nurse, you’ll work in many different environments all over the country—or world! It’s an unconventional nursing setting, but very rewarding.
• Flight nurse. Flight nurses assist in the care of patients being transported to the hospital via air travel. It can be a high-stress job and patient care is vitally important, but it’s a unique type of nursing that may interest you.
• School nurse. You’ll work with students and parents to coordinate medical care in a school. It’s a rewarding career and a great choice for nurses who love working with kids.
• Forensic nurse. As a forensic nurse, you will care for victims of crime and play a crucial role in gathering medical evidence and providing expert testimony that can be used in court.
• Case management nurse. Nurse case managers are registered nurses who design health care plans for individual patients. It is their job to coordinate effective and efficient care, while managing the costs of treatment. Case management can be a great career move for an experienced RN seeking responsibilities outside of direct patient care.

We want to help you find a career you love

At Herzing University we empower you to reach your career goals and support you in every way possible to help make it happen. If you are looking for feedback on how to best utilize your BSN and pivot to a new career, we’ll help you find your way.

Early morning wake-ups can be difficult, as the thought of sleeping in is usually a much more appealing option. However, waking up early boasts positive health benefits, including better concentration, improved quality of sleep, long-lasting energy, productivity and more.

Waking up early takes commitment, but it’s possible to turn even the latest riser into an early bird.

Here are some simple tips to help you get in the habit of waking up early:

1. Set an earlier bedtime

Training your body to fall asleep earlier may help you rise earlier each morning. Most adults should aim to get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night – anything less than that can cause you to struggle with waking up early.

2. Unplug before bed

“Unplugging” from smartphones and laptops about 30 minutes before bed can contribute to a better night of sleep. According to The Sleep Judge, the blue light emitted from screens can alter your body’s natural melatonin levels, making it more difficult to fall asleep.  An earlier bedtime with zero interference from tech can leave you feeling happier and more energized the next day.

3. Avoid late-night snacking

While some studies have shown that snacking close to bedtime can help dull any hunger pains that may appear overnight, others have shown that it can cause less enjoyable symptoms such as acid reflux. It’s easy to confuse hunger with tiredness, so instead, ditch the snacks and save your appetite for breakfast. 

4. Avoid sugary energy drinks and coffee

Energy drinks and coffee may give you the extra boost you need to study, but ingesting large amounts of sugar or caffeine before bed can make it more challenging to fall asleep and stay asleep. Limiting consumption of sugary sodas, energy drinks and coffee has been proven to produce healthier sleeping habits. Try switching to water or tea before bed to keep yourself hydrated.      

5. Silence your phone

Turn off your phone ringer or activate “do not disturb” mode before bed. Notifications can wake you in the middle of the night and tempt you to check your phone, which will disrupt your sleep cycle. That text message or funny meme will still be there in the morning, so do yourself a favor and completely disconnect before bed.

6. Avoid all-nighters

Skipping a night’s sleep to finish an assignment is not a wise choice. Not only can it lead to exhaustion the next morning, lack of sleep can also inhibit your body’s ability to function properly. According to Vice, a recent study reported that someone who goes a night without sleep will often end up with the cognitive impairment of an individual who drank to the legal limit. This proves just how important sleep is to our bodies. If you have a big deadline approaching, avoid procrastinating so you won’t have to pull an all-nighter to finish your work. You will quickly realize the lack of sleep is not worth it.  

7. Sleep with your curtains open

Leave your blinds or curtains slightly open before going to bed. This way, sunlight can stream through and help you wake up more naturally. On sunny days, this can be an effective strategy.

8. Place your alarm clock across the room

To avoid snoozing your alarm, place your phone or alarm clock across the room from where your bed is. This way, when your alarm goes off, you’ll be forced to get out of bed to silence it. Without the temptation of snoozing your alarm, you’ll be up and at ‘em right on time. 

Training your body to wake up early will take time, so don’t expect to be able to wake up at 5 a.m. every day just yet. Try implementing small changes into your routine to make early wakeups feasible, such as setting an earlier bedtime, moving the location of your alarm clock or ditching snacks and sugary drinks before bed. With these small changes,  your body will eventually get in the habit of getting up early.

Have you always been interested in the medical field? Do you have strong organizational and analytical skills? A career as a medical records technician might be an enticing option for you.

Medical records technicians, otherwise known as health information technicians, are an important part of the healthcare system. They keep track of patient data ranging from medical history to test results, and help code and digitize that information into electronic health records (EHRs), which are stored in a hospital’s patient database and later interpreted by health insurance companies for reimbursement of healthcare services. Medical records technicians must also ensure that patient information is cataloged correctly and transferred and stored securely, so attention to detail is an important skillset.

A career as a medical records technician offers strong employment prospects and earning potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of medical records technicians is expected to increase from 11% from 2018 to 2028. The BLS also reports that medical record technicians make a median annual wage of $40,350, with the highest 10% earning more than $66,260. There is potential to earn more as you advance in the field.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a medical records technician, here’s how to get started:

1. Earn your degree in Health Information Management (HIM)

There are a couple of options to start your career as a medical records technician:

• Associate of Science in Health Information Management: An associate degree program in HIM will prepare you for an entry-level position as a medical records technician. Herzing students can get their associate degree in as little as 20 months. Because the program can be completed online, students can continue working full-time while earning their degree.
• Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management: This particular pathway provides the most opportunity for career advancement. In as few as 36 months, Herzing students can learn how to apply coding basics, business skills, management skills and more to the medical records and health information field. With experience, they can advance from medical records positions to leadership roles like medical and health services manager or HIM Director.

2. Work toward a certification

Most employers prefer medical records technicians to have a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) certification or Registered Health Information Administration (RHIA) certification. Students with an associate degree in HIM will be qualified to take the RHIT certification exam, while graduates of the bachelor’s degree program will be eligible to take the RHIA certification exam – both through the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

Each certification denotes a slightly different skillset and, therefore, different career tracks. Those with an RHIA certification typically hold leadership positions, such as HIM directors that oversee the management of medical records. RHIT certifications prepare you for more technical positions that specialize in areas such as medical coding. While certification is not required by all employers, it can play a vital role in your career growth and earning potential. Learn more about which certification is right for you.

3. Consider advancement

As demand for healthcare services increases, so does the need for experienced HIM professionals. Many medical records technicians go on to pursue advanced roles in HIM, such as a medical and health services manager. Employment for medical and health services managers is expected to grow 18% through 2028, adding 71,600 new jobs, according to the BLS.

If you’re interested in advancing your career, Herzing offers a pathway for qualifying students in the HIM bachelor’s degree program to get a head start on earning their MBA in Healthcare Management. Students can earn up to 12 credits toward their MBA while enrolled in the bachelor’s program, setting themselves up for career advancement in the future.

Ready to take the next step? Learn more about Herzing University’s health information management degree programs and begin your career as a medical records technician today!

With an avid interest in healthcare and a passion for helping others, Herzing University-Orlando 2019 graduate Danny Nguyen knew a career as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) would be the perfect fit for him.

The need for physical therapy services is expanding rapidly, making PTA a popular career choice for those who are interested in joining the healthcare field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)1 projects 27% employment growth for PTAs between 2018 and 2028, adding as many as 38,000 new jobs. PTA is also ranked #3 on U.S. News & World Report’s list of Best Health Care Support Jobs.

We talked with Danny to learn more about what it’s like to work as a PTA, and what prospective students should know about pursuing a career in the field.

Why did you decide to become a PTA? How did you get started in your career?

I decided to become a PTA when I found my passion in health sciences. I knew healthcare was the right field for me when I first opened my anatomy/physiology textbook. Book after book, I became more intrigued, and I knew I wanted to help people. Through research and conversations with my peers and mentors, I chose the field of physical therapy, which aligned with my lifestyle and allowed me to continue learning and feeding my curiosity for health sciences.

What do PTAs do? What does your typical day look like?

A typical day for a PTA can vary depending on where you work. I work in an outpatient setting, which can be very busy. I can see anywhere between 16 and 32 patients during one eight-hour workday.

I’ll usually arrive 15-20 minutes early to review my schedule and see if there are any changes. PTAs have to be flexible and open to cancels and reschedules. If I see any new patients on my schedule, I will review their initial evaluations including what they’re here for, their insurance, medical history, goals and more. 

As a PTA, you’re part of a team, so I’m constantly communicating with my patient service coordinator if I have questions regarding the day’s schedule or my patients’ insurance, authorizations or medical records. I also assist the physical therapist (PT) by tracking patients’ progress and responding to changes in their status or response to interventions. Documentation is also an important part of my job, as patient records are an invaluable resource for other therapists and healthcare professionals.

I also regularly communicate with the PT regarding concerns about treatments, patient status, emergency situations and authorizations. We work together to maximize the quality of care.

To maintain our license to practice, PTAs have to continue to take courses to improve our skills and make sure we are up to date with the current practice, so after work, I sometimes read through evidence-based practice articles to find ways to improve patient care.

What is most rewarding about your career?

The most rewarding part of my career is the smile on my patients’ faces when they tell me the exercises I’ve taught them have helped them. I also love when they ask me questions so I can continue to be involved with their care.

What are some challenges you’ve faced in your career and how have you overcome them?

The transition from student to working professional has been challenging at times. There’s an adjustment period of realizing you’re no longer a student, and you need to rely on your education and the skills and values you learned to succeed in your role as a PTA. I’ve learned that it’s okay to be less experienced as long as you find an opportunity that allows you to grow through proper training and good mentorship.

What skills are essential for success as a PTA?

Flexibility, communication, creativity, clinical problem solving, and the ability to multitask are critical for success. It’s also important to always be prepared and to have good people skills, as you’re communicating and building relationships with patients regularly.

What advice do you have for students interested in a career in this field?

My advice for those who want to pursue a career as a PTA is to figure out the “why.” Why are you interested in this field of work? Why are you choosing this specific career? The “why” will motivate you through school and help get you where you want to be in your career. My other piece of advice is to be empathetic – help others and others will help you. Finally, have goals! Setting and tracking goals are key to helping you grow professionally.

What are your career goals?

A few of my career goals include:

• Obtaining certifications in manual therapy
• Managing and operating a clinic
• Becoming a mentor to students
• Getting involved in non-profit programs to help individuals adapt to their conditions

Ready to follow in Danny’s footsteps and start your career as a physical therapist assistant? Learn more about Herzing University’s physical therapist assistant program to help you reach your career goals.

While attending Herzing University-Madison to earn her bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree, Elvira “Vivi” Ruíz Gárate juggled four part-time jobs along with her nursing studies – all to keep her dream of becoming a nurse practitioner alive.

We sat down with Vivi to learn more about her experience as a nursing student and what her plans are for the future.

Why did you decide to pursue a career in nursing?

I was born in Peru, and when I was 14 years old, my family moved to the United States. After I graduated from Beloit Memorial High School, I started working at a community health center as a receptionist and later moved into healthcare roles including medical assistant and medical interpreter.

Many of the patients I worked with were Spanish-speaking and part of my job was to guide them to resources, explain to them what the doctor was saying in terms they could understand and be an advocate for them. It was then when I realized I had a passion for patient advocacy and culturally sensitive care, and knew I could make a difference as a nurse.

Why did you decide to earn a BSN?

After several years of working as a licensed practical nurse (LPN), I knew that I wanted to advance my nursing studies and my career. I decided to attend Herzing University for my BSN after hearing about the positive experiences a few friends had in the program. Learning that the program didn’t have a waiting list was a major incentive for me.

How did you balance work and school as a nursing student?

While enrolled in the BSN program, I worked in the Learning Commons on campus where I helped with tutoring and other related tasks. Aside from working as an LPN at a nursing home on the weekends, I also held part-time jobs as a student nurse assistant and a fill-in health room assistant for the Beloit School District.

Balancing work and school were challenging, but I was able to manage it because of my flexible class schedule and family support. My professors were very encouraging as well. When a person is in an environment where they hear “you’re smart, you can do it,” it inspires that person. That is what happened to me – I felt like I could succeed.

What’s next for you career-wise?

Since graduating in May 2019, I have passed my NCLEX-RN licensing exam and have started working full time at UW Health. I was accepted into their Nurse Residency Program and will be graduating in July 2020. Earning my BSN helped me get accepted into the residency program, which was my main goal post-graduation.

I plan to continue my studies to become a nurse practitioner. Thanks to Herzing’s dual credit program, I’ve already completed a semester toward my graduate degree!

Some healthcare programs require a set number of hours in a clinical rotation. Clinical experience is integral to careers such as nursing because it allows students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations and get face time with patients.

While clinical rotations are extremely valuable, they can take up a lot of time, which can be difficult for students balancing obligations such as family and full-time jobs. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t pursue a degree in healthcare. Here are five healthcare degrees that do not require a clinical rotation:

1. Medical Office Administration

In as few as 12 months, students can earn their diploma, or their associate degree in 20 months. As a medical office administrator, you’re responsible for performing clerical duties such as scheduling appointments, answering phones, bookkeeping, organizing patient records and more. There are a variety of jobs available with this degree, including medical clerk, medical receptionist and medical office assistant. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment of medical secretaries to increase 16%1 from 2018 to 2028. While wage depends on the state in which you work and your job title, medical secretaries earn a median annual wage of $35,7602  according to the BLS.

2. Healthcare Administration

Healthcare administrators are responsible for day-to-day operations such as scheduling, staffing, inventory control and patient relations. With a degree in healthcare administration, you can pursue several jobs ranging from operations assistant to an administrative support specialist. Depending on your role and experience, annual wages will vary. The BLS reports that healthcare administrators earn a median annual wage of $37,0903. Job growth in this field isn’t expected to slow anytime soon, with the BLS projecting employment to grow 16%4 from 2018 to 2028.

3. Healthcare Management

If decision-making and leadership are two of your strongest qualities, you may want to consider healthcare management as a career. You can earn your bachelor’s degree in as little as 36 months, which can prepare you for jobs such as healthcare manager, clinical manager or residential care manager. According to the BLS, employment in the field is expected to grow 18%5 from 2018 to 2028. The BLS also reports that the median annual wage for employees in healthcare management is $99,7206. However, salary depends largely on the state in which you work, your education and experience.

4. Healthcare Information Management (HIM)

A degree in HIM can lead to a variety of jobs including medical and health services manager, HIM consultant and HIM director. While responsibilities differ by title and state, those in the HIM field work to improve efficiency and quality of healthcare services. HIM employees earn a median annual wage of $99,7307, with the highest 10% earning more than $182,600, according to the BLS. Students can earn their Associate of Applied Science in HIM in as few as 20 months, or their bachelor in 36 months. The job outlook is positive, with the BLS projecting employment to increase by 18%8 from 2018 to 2028.

5. Medical Coding

Medical coders are responsible for creating and maintaining accurate electronic health records. A career in medical coding could help you land jobs such as coding specialist, department coder or medical records specialist. Students can earn their associate degree in as few as 20 months and be ready to enter a growing field. Medical coder employment is expected to grow 11%9 from 2018 to 2028, creating as many as 23,000 new jobs, according to the BLS. The BLS also reports that medical coders earn a median annual wage of $40,35010, with the highest 10% earning more than $66,260.

6. Health Sciences

A bachelor’s degree in health sciences can be a great choice for current allied health professionals looking to take the next step in their careers, including physical therapist assistants, occupational therapy assistants, medical assistants, massage therapists and many more.

Students looking to build a career towards roles in community health, public health and wellness, fitness and nutrition, health policy or other managerial-level allied health positions are best suited for a health sciences bachelor’s degree curriculum.

Ready to get started? Learn more about Herzing University’s healthcare programs and begin your career today!

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If you’re considering a career in law, there are many job options available including multiple opportunities that don’t require you to go to law school.

Two sought-after positions are paralegal and legal assistants because of their positive employment outlook and earning potential. Paralegals and legal assistants earn a median annual wage of $50,9401, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), with the highest 10 percent earning more than $82,050. The BLS also reports that employment of paralegals and legal assistants is expected to grow 12%2 from 2018 to 2028, creating close to 39,000 new jobs by 2028.

Paralegals vs. Legal Assistants

It can be difficult to tell the difference between paralegals and legal assistants because of some overlapping responsibilities. For instance, both positions are responsible for helping lawyers prepare for trial and conduct investigations. They both share a similar work environment with over 50%3 working at a legal firm or similar setting according to the BLS. Opportunities are also available at local, state and federal government facilities or in finance and insurance. Due to the need to fill paralegal and legal assistant positions, firms are starting to offer “hybrid” positions, which combine the duties of both roles and can decrease hiring costs for firms. 

The two positions, however, differ when it comes to individual tasks.

Paralegals

Paralegals, also known as lawyer’s assistants, typically work directly with a lawyer to help draft legal documents, research laws and gather evidence to use in court. They’re also responsible for filing appeals with the court or opposing counsel. Paralegals are able to specialize in a particular area of law if desired, such as family law, personal injury or criminal law. Depending on the specialty, paralegals will have slightly varied responsibilities. There are a few specific skills that can help paralegals be successful, including proficiency with Microsoft Office, litigation and legal document composition. Most of these skills are developed after a few years of experience, which is why two to five years of prior legal experience via internships or a few years working as a legal secretary is typically preferred.

Legal Assistants

Legal assistants, otherwise known as legal secretaries, are the head of administrative tasks at a law firm which is why data entry and experience with Microsoft Office are important proficiencies. Day-to-day tasks include answering phones and tracking appointments, as well as looking into case facts, maintaining digital databases for accuracy and preparing legal documents like subpoenas and affidavits. This role is typically an entry-level position and is therefore a stepping stone toward other jobs in law that require additional skills, experience and education.

Becoming a Paralegal or Legal Assistant

Both positions require knowledge of basic law, as well as attention to detail and strong verbal and written communication skills. Most employers require paralegals and legal assistants to have their associate degree, while other employers require a bachelor’s degree in legal studies. Earning your bachelor’s degree can set you up to advance your law career later on.

Herzing University offers several degree pathways in paralegal and legal assisting, which can prepare you with the skills and knowledge you’ll need to succeed in the field. Earning your degree opens up opportunities for legal work in areas such as bankruptcy, copyrighting, criminal law, labor law, and more.

Ready to take the first step to become a paralegal or legal assistant? Learn more about Herzing’s paralegal/legal assisting degree pathway.

Sometimes students hit what’s known as the mid-semester slump when their interest in school drops and productivity suffers. But with exams and deadlines quickly approaching, students can’t afford to lose focus.

Here are a few ways to avoid burnout and keep your motivation high throughout the semester:

1. Find someone to hold you accountable

Ask one or two friends, classmates or family members to regularly check in with you to make sure you are staying on track. They can also provide support if you’re struggling in a particular class or need advice on how to complete your assignments on time.   

2. Step away from your studies

Taking a few minutes to decompress and focus on something other than your studies can help clear your head. Read a book, exercise, listen to music, take a walk – do anything you enjoy to help you regain the focus needed to complete your work.

3. Switch up your game plan

Changing your studying technique or day-to-day routine can do wonders for overcoming a slump. While routine can be helpful for staying motivated, it can also become repetitive. If this is the case, it may be time to switch things up. Bring some variance back into your life by implementing something new into your daily routine, whether that’s studying at a different coffee shop or taking an alternate route home from work. It may be just what you need to get yourself back on track.

4. Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Professors and advisors are some of the best resources for support and are ready and willing to help you. Herzing University offers students an advisor who can help with anything from time management strategies and academic preparation to handling stress and connecting you to other university resources.

5. Prioritize your work

When you’re mid-semester, you may have a lot on your plate – exams, assignments due and other deadlines piling up. Looking at everything you have to do can be overwhelming, but learning to prioritize your work can help you manage your workload and get you through your sump. Make a list of upcoming deadlines and time commitments so you can focus on one thing at a time.

6. Put on your favorite music

Music can be a great way to boost your mood and productivity. Not all types of music are conducive to studying, but any music with minimal lyrics or mostly instrumental melodies is a great choice. Certain beats have been proven to keep students engaged while studying. A number of streaming platforms, such as Spotify and Pandora, feature specially curated study playlists that make it simple for students to stay focused throughout the semester. 

7. Take care of yourself

If you find your list of responsibilities becoming chaotic, take a second to step back and evaluate your self-care routine. Are you getting enough sleep? Is your diet sustainable? Are you getting enough of the nutrients your body needs? If not, it may be smart to consider what changes you can implement in order to help your body and mind feel more alert and motivated for success.

8. Rely on a planner

A planner offers another great way to manage your time and schedule throughout the semester. You can use an old-fashioned paper planner that comes in daily, weekly or monthly spreads, or you can opt for a digital planner on your smartphone. This way, you’ll get alerts when deadlines are coming up and remind you when assignments are due to help keep you on track.

Find which of these techniques works best for you and your study habits and stick with them to help you power through the semester.

The dental field offers a variety of exciting career options and a comfortable work environment. Beginning your career as a dental assistant is a great starting point in dentistry and can lead to other more advanced positions.

The job outlook for dental assistants is promising, with employment projected to grow 11%1 from 2018 to 2028, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Due to ongoing research linking oral health to overall health, there is an increased demand for dental care.

What Does a Dental Assistant Do?

Dental assistants support dentists and dental hygienists to provide more effective and efficient patient care.

As a dental assistant, you’ll have varying responsibilities to keep the office running smoothly as well as caring for patients. Office management tasks include scheduling appointments and answering phones as well as contacting suppliers for new shipments of products. Customer service skills will be important as well, as you will often be the first person patients meet when they arrive. It’s your job to make sure they’re comfortable while they’re in the office. Dental assistants may also be asked to aid the dentist during a procedure, which could include gathering materials, taking X-rays or providing patients with follow-up information or dental advice.

How to Become a Dental Assistant

Dental assistants need to complete the necessary training and certification for the state where they work. The requirements of each state vary, as some require dental assistants to become certified through passing the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam. You can prepare to join this growing career field by earning your associate degree or diploma in dental assisting. 

Pro Tip: With Herzing University’s Minneapolis campus, you have a path to earn dental assisting and dental hygiene credentials in 4 years! Through this unique pathway, you can start your dental assisting career in as little as 24 months, then continue to study for a dental hygiene career while you work. Learn more about this pathway here.

Fun Dental Facts

One of the many roles of a dental assistant is educating patients on basic dental hygiene, and this can be a fun part of the job. For example, here are a few interesting facts dental assistants can share with patients:

1. 73% of Americans would rather shop for groceries than brush their teeth.
2. Tooth decay affects almost 4 million people worldwide, and like cavities, is among one of the world’s most common health problem.
3. The lifespan of a taste bud is only 10 days.
4. According to Dentistry iQ, if you brush your teeth anywhere from 40-70 seconds per day, you’ll spend 15-23 days of your life brushing your teeth.
5. Studies have shown that poor dental care can be associated with diabetes and heart disease.

Educating patients on facts like these can emphasize the importance of practicing proper dental hygiene. If you’re considering a career as a dental assistant, here are a few facts you should know about the profession:

1. Many dental assistants choose to go back to school after only a few years of practicing to become dental hygienists. This career move could provide an opportunity for a higher salary and more benefits.
2. Practicing as a dental assistant can open up a number of career opportunities in other specialties in the future, including oral surgery, periodontics and endodontics.
3.  Important qualities for dental assistants to have include interpersonal skills, listening skills, organizational skills and dexterity.

Ready to take the first step toward a career as a dental assistant? Learn more about Herzing’s dental assisting programs.

If you’re looking to advance your nursing career, consider becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), which offers a more specialized path within the healthcare field. FNPs, also known as family nurse practitioners, have specialized educational and clinical training in family practice. They provide care to patients of all ages, giving diagnoses, offering health advice and discussing topics such as disease prevention. A few examples of regular FNP duties could include:

• Providing immunizations
• Prescribing medications and therapies
• Providing comprehensive physical exams
• Ordering diagnostic tests
• Performing procedures

Due to the aging baby boomer population, the job outlook for FNPs is expected to increase 26%1 by 2028, creating an estimated 53,300 new jobs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). According to the BLS, the median annual wage of a nurse practitioner was $107,0302 in May 2018, with the highest 10% earning over $182,750.

How to Become an FNP

It’s common to work as a registered nurse (RN) for a couple of years before becoming an FNP to gain experience. After working as an RN, you can earn a master of science in nursing from an accredited college or university. These programs typically include both classroom work and clinical experience and are specifically built for students who aspire to become an FNP. Herzing University offers several MSN pathways, one of which allows you to complete your Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner, in as little as 20 months.

FNP Workplaces

FNPs have a variety of workplace options, depending on the age range of patients they treat and whether they wish to work in public or private settings. Potential workplaces could include:

1. Private Practice

Only available in certain states, private practice is ideal if you want to work with a limited number of patients and build familiarity with them and their treatment plans. Depending on the state, FNPs can act as the primary caregiver and prescribe medications.

 2. Hospice Facility

Hospice care is for terminally ill patients. Along with general patient care, you will be responsible for keeping your patient’s families up-to-date on the next steps.

3. School Clinic

FNPs that work in a primary school or university are responsible for providing care to any students that feel ill or require other medical assistance. Primary schools typically offer only basic medical care and first aid, while college health centers will offer more specialized treatments including pharmaceutical facilities, pregnancy tests and even counseling services.   

4. Home Health Center

In this setting, FNPs work directly in the home of a patient, which is an alternative to care in a rehab center. Nurses focus on assisting the patient in everyday tasks as well as other specialized treatments.

5. Community Health Center

Often found in lower-income neighborhoods, FNPs will treat patients who might face barriers to care, such as high costs, insurance problems or language barriers.

6. Office of a Physician

In this fast-paced work setting, FNPs assist a physician with patient care. In select states, FNPs can see patients without physician oversight.

7. Outpatient Care Facility

Nurse practitioners help surgeons to prepare patients for tests or surgical procedures as well as providing them with the proper rehabilitation instructions.

Ready to start your career as an FNP? Learn more about Herzing University’s FNP program options.

Are you considering pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA)? There are many options to choose from and different career possibilities depending on the degree path you choose. Take our quiz to find out what MBA concentration may fit your personality best.

What is an MBA and what does that mean for me?

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is an internationally recognized degree for business and business management. An MBA can provide you with leadership skills as well as critical thinking, better communication, self-discipline, improved time management and more. An MBA degree is not only valuable for a career in business and marketing but can also be useful for those pursuing careers in the public sector, private industry, the government and non-profit organizations.

Do I need an MBA?

While a bachelor’s degree is standard across the industry, an MBA can provide additional opportunities for career growth and set you apart from other candidates. An MBA degree also shows that you’re a dedicated self-starter who is passionate about your field of work.

Is it worth it to complete my MBA?

Getting your MBA can be well worth the investment. An MBA sees a great return on investment (ROI), both financially and personally.

According to an Alumni Perspectives Survey, 93% of MBA graduates would pursue their degree again. Many Herzing MBA graduates are also glad they completed their degree because of the numerous career opportunities that have come from it.

An MBA is more in demand than ever before. The value of an MBA degree is being felt across the industry by employers who appreciate educated, self-starting leaders with advanced critical thinking skills.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), MBA graduates tend to make about $2,0001 more per year on average than someone with just a bachelor’s degree. This is especially true if you’ve been working in an industry for a while. Your experience alongside an MBA makes you a valuable candidate and could help increase your average salary up to $400,000 over the course of your career.

What can you do with an MBA?

An MBA demonstrates that you have the necessary skills and qualifications to be a competent leader in your field.

According to U.S. News & World Report the top five careers for MBAs include:

• Product manager
• Consultant
• Medical and health services manager
• Financial manager
• Product marketing manager or brand marketing manager

What is an MBA concentration?

A specialized MBA versus a general MBA is for those looking for a specific industry to work in. All MBA programs have core courses in economics, accounting and marketing. If you choose to pursue a masters, you can focus your degree on your professional interests and experience. Herzing offers MBA programs in the following career paths:

• Accounting
• Data analytics
• Dual concentration option
• Healthcare management
• Human resources
• Project management
• Technology management

If you’re having trouble finding a career field that interests you, that’s OK. Browse Herzing’s MBA Degree Programs to learn more.

How can I complete my MBA?

MBA program length can vary depending on your previous experience and degree pathway. At Herzing you can graduate in as little as 12 months. More students are choosing to take online courses to complete their MBA due to multiple responsibilities and a busy schedule, which is why we offer online MBA programs to earn your degree at a pace that works for you.

Our business program is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) so that Herzing graduates meet international standards.

Your MBA degree options

Want to talk through your quiz results? You can contact a Herzing University faculty member or advisor about your results and your education options. You can also do some more reading to see if an MBA is right for you.

• Learn more about our online MBA degree programs to read about or unique program options
• Get tips from current and former Herzing students
• Get inspired by the story of one working mother who got her degree without stopping her life and why getting her MBA was important to another student
• Wondering what to do after graduation? Read job hunting tips for MBA grads