Appearance vs Reality of Merchant of Venice-2

Are all the characters in the play Merchant of Venice as good or as bad as portrayed?

characters are said to be good it means there isn’t anything bad about the character and when 

From the starting of the play, The writer has categorised characters as good and bad. When the characters are said to be good it means there isn’t anything bad about the character and when said bad vice-versa. But I don’t agree with this.

characters are said to be good it means there isn’t anything bad about 

The first character introduced in the play is Antonio. He is rich, very helpful, loyal, trustworthy, really a true gentleman. He loves his friends and doesn’t seem to have a love interest in the play. He is mostly paraded about in the play by his friends and the writer himself to be a pure and kind person. To me, he is not really as good a person as he is bestowed. He hates people based on their religion and beliefs. Him being a Christian, he hates all Jews. His biggest hatred is the towards Shylock, a jew merchant. So even if he is really honest and great, he should not in any way bully a person just because he happens to be a jew and their beliefs are different from his. It is explained that one of the reasons for his behaviour towards Shylock is due to Shylock giving out loans with interest which is against the bible. But analysing the character further we understand that this is just a plausible defence. play

characters are said to be good it means there isn’t anything bad about the character and when 

The next character, Bassanio. A handsome and dashing fellow. He really loves Antonio because Antonio always helps Bassanio with everything especially when it comes to money. Antonio being a blind fellow to love makes it very easy for Bassanio to deceive him. Bassanio is in love with Portia, a lovely rich lady who is in preparation to be won by any suitor who wins her. What really got me thinking about Bassanio’s intention is his opening remarks about Portia when he was talking to Antonio. Where he refers to Portia as ‘a rich-lady in waiting’.This mostly gives out the impression of Bassanio’s Intentions of wooing Portia to be because of her wealth and beauty. And almost fully neglecting the factor of her personality.which is considerably understandable due to Bassanio being a young prodigal. But later in the play, they do fall in love but i truly believe it’s for the wrong reasons

characters are said to be good it means there isn’t anything bad about the character and when 

Portia, she is the rich lady that Bassanio is wishing to woo. She is really beautiful. She is the prize to the puzzle her late father set in order for her to get an honest husband, who marries her for the right reasons and not because of her wealth and good looks. This was her father making sure that his daughter was taken care of after his time. When Bassanio really wins her in the play, we see her shift into a very obedient, loyal and loving wife. The downfall of her personality is that she easily criticise people very easily on the basis of their looks. And I believe it was wrong of her to tell the suitors that if they lost the puzzle, they cannot talk to another woman about marriage ever again.i.e.never marry if they choose wrong. She added this extra clause so that most of the suitors she didn’t like would be scared and would go away. So that she wouldn’t have a risk of having to marry them because neither did she have the chance to turn them down nor knew the answer to the puzzle. And when Bassanio came along she slightly cheated so that she can marry Bassanio because she liked how he was. Purely judgment of what was shown on the outside and his actions.


Appearance vs Reality of Merchant of Venice

One of the greatest writers of history is Shakespeare. William Shakespeare was an English playwright, poet, and actor, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world’s greatest dramatist in the history of English literature.

He has written many masterpieces. In which are are Macbeth, Othello, Romeo and Juliet extra etc. 

In which Merchant of Venice is one. The storyline of the play goes :

The play commences on a street in Venice. Shakespeare introduces the central character of the play, Antonio, as a Merchant of power and influence. Bassanio, his friend, confesses to him that he is in love with Portia, a rich heiress of Belmont. To present himself as an eligible suitor to Portia, he seeks a loan from Antonio. Antonio has no money in hand to lend as his fortunes are tied up with his ships at sea. However, he promises to help us Bassanio to take a loan from money lenders using his(Antonio’s)name. The entire play is based on the scenario that happens as a continuation of this situation. And then the place carried on by the test of Fortune, the bond story, Jessica’s deceit, the choice of caskets, the trial scene and the happy ending.

The play has many teams which include love, friendship and loyalty, love of wealth, justice and Mercy, and most importantly appearance and reality.

In this segment of the blog, I have decided to give my point of view of a very famous question which is discussed in this play. Which is the theme of appearance and reality in the play.

The most obvious points would be:

1. How Shylock was discussing the terms of the bond appearing friendly to Antonio but had an ulterior motive of taking revenge on him.

2.How in Jessica-Lorenzo Love Story where Jessica pretends to be meek and submissive in front of her father; though in reality, she is rebellious.

3. The message of how outward appearance is liable to be deceptive which is shown in in the play through the principle of the lottery caskets. The lottery ordeal has been used to test the sincerity and character of the suitors for Portia. In the choice of caskets, not only their appearance but also the mottoes inscribed on them are to be considered.

Throughout the play, we see how each character is portrayed.

Antonio is characterised as a wealthy merchant, a popular figure, a true friend, philanthropist, a gentleman and melancholic in nature.

Bassanio is shown to be an extravagant young man, a true lover, optimistic, cheerful and has genuine affection for Antonio.

 Portia’s portrayed to be beautiful, witty, humourous, resourceful, has a compassionate nature and is a loyal daughter.

While Shylock is attested to be having a complex personality, greed for money, ribbons for, deceitful and crafty and is suspicious in nature.

I strongly believe these are these things that Shakespeare, himself, wants his audience to believe in the play. but deep down I feel different. My real question is are all the characters in Merchant of Venice as good or as bad as they are portrayed in the play?


3 Skills Business Students Should Know

Technology is ubiquitous in the business world, and it’s expected that new employees will be able to tackle certain computer-related tasks once they join the workforce.
Herzing University understands that need and includes technology as a major theme throughout most courses in the business program. One of the most important computer-related skills that students in all academic concentrations learn is proficiency in standard Microsoft Office applications. While similar applications may be used by other businesses (such as Google Docs or OpenOffice) Microsoft applications are still the de facto standard.
Let’s take a look at each one of these applications, and the types of work that a new employee may be asked to do with them:
  • Microsoft Word is the standard for word processing tasks. Employers will expect new hires to be able to use the application to complete an existing template, such as reports and forms. Employees may also be expected to generate new documents based on the needs of the company, the field and their position. Some documents may be as simple as memos, while others may be as complex as research reports or marketing flyers.
  • Microsoft Excel is used to create spreadsheets that organize data so that it can be easily interpreted and analyzed. Students should know general spreadsheet formulas and functions and understand how Excel compiles and reports data. Business students should also be able to analyze data and present it in a fashion that is easy for others to understand. This can include statistical analysis and the creation of tables and charts.
  •  Microsoft PowerPoint is a slide show presentation program that is also often used in the business world. Students should be able to use PowerPoint in a professional setting and create slides that can explain concepts, ideas and data to others. They can use different formats, templates and layouts that make the information both engaging and easy to understand.
In addition to these general applications, students should familiarize themselves with the technical skills they will need for their desired career. For example, students interested in marketing should be able to analyze data in Excel, create memos relating to marketing efforts in Word and develop engaging presentations in PowerPoint. Other applications that might be relevant to a career in marketing include those used for web-based marketing, social media campaigns or evaluating the profitability of different marketing mix options.
A student who understands the value of technology in the business world is likely more qualified job candidate and a more effective worker. At Herzing University, we ensure that students are exposed to a wide variety of software applications so that they can hone their technical skills throughout their academic program.
Learn more about our business programs here.

How Virtual Reality is Changing the Way We Work

It’s an exciting time for virtual reality, which became a billion-dollar industry in 2016. A variety of companies are adopting VR technology to serve their specific missions, markets and customers. As virtual reality becomes more affordable and accessible to the masses, its widespread use is likely to become as routine to mainstream culture as social media platforms. Because of this, virtual reality has the potential to affect everyone and needs to be understood by students preparing to enter the workforce.

Who is benefiting from VR technology?

Education professionals were among the early adopters of VR technology. Several schools already offer students a VR-based lesson plan. Using Google Cardboard, students can take virtual field trips to distant and exotic locations, like the Great Barrier Reef, Egyptian pyramids and even Mars. The New York Times is also engaging consumers in VR technology with the launch of its new NYT VR app, which uses video and storytelling to create an immersive user experience via a smartphone and headphones. Real estate professionals are also beginning to adopt VR technology. Realtors can now offer clients a 3D virtual tour of desired properties using a VR headset.

What does VR mean for today’s students?

VR is likely to have a significant impact on the future job market. Here are three steps that you can take to make sure you’re VR ready:
1. Do some additional research on businesses currently using VR and consider if the industry you plan on working in can make use of the technology. If so, how can you be an innovator in incorporating VR into your industry – either by bringing ideas to the table or by initiating this change yourself?
2. Engage your fellow students and teachers on the topic and ask for their thoughts on how virtual reality might influence the future. Creative innovation has more fertile ground among many minds.
3. Start getting familiar with VR technology yourself by downloading different apps such as the NYT VR app, which is free on your smartphone or tablet. Understanding VR’s current capabilities and limitations will show you what’s possible and where the technology needs to grow.
Interested in pursuing a technology degree? Learn more here.
Hal Fickett is the CEO of an Orlando-based marketing and design agency called Hal Fickett & Company. Before managing the firm, he was a professional actor, theater producer and worked in marketing and sales for NPR. Hal is currently earning his MBA in Project Management at Herzing’s Orlando campus and is expected to graduate in 2017. He is married to Gina, they attend NewCity church and are expecting their first child in May.

Balance Family and College: Student Story

Going back to school when you have children you need to take care of at home can be a really frightening thought. When will I have time for schoolwork? Will I ever get to study? What if my grades suffer because of my family commitments?
These are all valid fears, but if you make schoolwork a priority and practice good time management skills, you can be successful and reach your goals.
I returned to school as an online student when my oldest child was about 9 months old. I took breaks when we added our second, third and fourth children to the family, but came back to school as soon as we had settled into a routine. It took a while to balance it all with new babies, but now that my children are a little older (8, 6, almost 5, and 3 ½) it has become much easier.
Without implementing and adhering to a set daily schedule, I would never have had the passion to complete my bachelor’s degree or finish school with a 3.81 GPA. Once I knew I could manage going back to school while raising my family, I had the desire to eventually earn my MBA as well.
Here are some tips that help keep me organized and on the path to success:
  • Organize your school week on Sunday night. Write out all of your assignments and their due dates.
  •  Get a head start on your reading! The sooner you start reading, the quicker you can begin your assignments.
  • Make schoolwork a priority. Set reminders in your phone and in your day planner. Constant reminders can help keep you on track!
  •  Use sticky notes in your day planner. I like to use a different color for each course. I write the assignment on the note and put it in my planner on the due date. The best feeling is taking those notes out and throwing them away. This means I’ve completed my work!
  •  Post on the discussion boards every day. This maximizes your discussion point and creates a classroom feel to the online discussions. It also greatly enhances your understanding of course concepts.
  •  Study with your kids! Nothing teaches our children the value of education better than studying together. They’ll learn to be diligent in their studies and appreciate the time spent together.
Organization and time management may be a difficult task to master at first, but if you follow these tips and stay on top of the assignments, you’ll most definitely be a success!
Have a great term!
Heather Jones-Kipp is a graduate of Herzing University. She completed the Diploma of Medical Office Administration in September 2015 and the Associate of Science in Medical Assisting Services in December 2016. In January 2017, she will begin the Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management at Herzing University. She has been married to her husband Chad for almost 10 years and she recently published her first novel. On top of all of this, she is also a mom of 4 amazing and busy children!

Three Things Not to Do When Applying for a Job

Once we earn our college degree, the next step for most of us is to start applying for jobs. All the papers, exams and countless hours spent in classes have prepared us to take the first steps towards our dream career. The job search can be stressful, but avoiding these three pitfalls will help you stand out from the other applicants:

Skipping over the application.

If an organization requests that you complete an application, make sure you take the time to complete it. Simply attaching a resume or writing “please see resume” in the application blanks is not sufficient and will send you straight to the “No” pile. Applications allow the employer – particularly the human resources department – to control which information is provided so that they can streamline the reviewing process. However, resumes put control in the hands of applicants, who often provide information that is unnecessary or disorganized. The more the reviewer has to work to find relevant information, the less likely it is you will get an interview. You can still attach your resume, but the completed application is the first thing the organization will look at when they decide who to interview. 

Hounding the organization. 

You submitted your completed application by the deadline, but you haven’t heard anything. What do you do? One thing you don’t want to do is call the organization several times a week to find out when you’re going to be interviewed. The hiring process takes time, especially when an organization receives hundreds of applications for a single position. Calling once a week to check on your application is appropriate, but calling more frequently is considered hounding – even harassing – and it isn’t going to reflect favorably on you or increase your chances of being hired.

Making a bad impression.

There are several moments throughout the job application process where it is crucial that you make a good impression. If you are attending a networking event, make sure you dress appropriately and conduct yourself professionally because you never know if you will meet a future employer. If you submitted an online job application, an employer would likely request a phone interview before bringing you in to meet the hiring manager. Don’t take the call if you’re in the middle of something else; instead, make an appointment for when you will be available to talk without distractions. If you are lucky enough to get an in-person interview, remember that you are essentially being interviewed by everyone in the organization, from the hiring manager to the secretary. First impressions matter, even when you’re chatting with someone who doesn’t seem to have any authority in the hiring process, such as the receptionist. Be friendly, professional and engaged when you meet your potential future colleagues.
Starting the job hunt isn’t easy, but paying attention to the little things will make a difference. Observe the old saying of “crossing your t’s and dotting your i’s” in regard to your application and/or resume, hold back on the frequency with which you contact the organization regarding your application, and project a professional and friendly image when interacting with anyone associated with the company. These are all ways that you can make a favorable impression, increase your chances of getting an interview and land your dream job.
Jack McCallum has been with the online business department at Herzing University since 2011. When not teaching, she serves as the President/Principal Consultant for HR Balance LLC, a consulting company specializing in human resources management, organizational development, leadership coaching, and training/development. She started HR Balance LLC in 2003 after years of serving in a leadership capacity for a variety of for-profit and non-profit organizations. A keynote speaker and presenter, Jack has served as an industry expert for radio and print media.

Why Should You Become a Medical Assistant?

With such promising occupation projections from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, it’s no surprise for many individuals to be interested in a new career in the healthcare industry. But where do you start, what career path is right for you? As you do your research to help you decide your next educational journey, it might be worth your while to check out the role of a medical assistaning.  

What is a medical assistant?

Medical assistants are caring, competent and committed providers who fill a vital need in the healthcare industry. Medical assistants are trained in both clinical and administrative duties and work alongside physicians and registered nurses (RNs). They are a huge help to doctors and nurses and can improve the quality of a hospital’s patient care.
Here are three reasons why you should consider becoming a medical assistant:

 1. High demand

Medical assisting is one of the nation’s fastest-growing careers. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job growth is expected to be 23 percent from now until 2024. As the baby boomer population continues to age, there are significantly more elderly Americans in need of medical treatment.

How much can I make?

According to 2018 data from the BLS, medical assistants earn an average salary of $34,540 per year ($16.61 per hour). Graduates right out of school will need to gain experience to work their way towards earning a salary in this range. What you can make depends largely on your level of experience and state in which you practice. Learn more about the average medical assistant salary and find an estimate from the BLS in your state.

 2. Hands-on role in patient care

Medical assistants are an important liaison between the physician and the patient. Sometimes, medical jargon can be difficult for a patient to interpret. As a medical assistant, you help a patient understand the physician’s instructions. Medical assistants also help prepare patients for examination, administer medication and treatment and assist the physician during exams. Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) play a similar role in patient care, but they typically work in nursing homes or long-term care facilities. Medical assistants play a supporting role to physicians and RNs in medical offices, clinics and hospitals. They are often the ones who have the most direct contact with a patient and the ones who help patients feel at ease.

 3. The fast-track to a career in healthcare

While doctors and RNs have to spend years in school before they are certified, medical assistants may be able to receive their diploma (DMAS) in as little as 12 months. Students may also choose to pursue their associates in medical assisting (AAMAS); receiving your degree in as little as 16-20 months. If you’re looking for a faster entry point to a career in healthcare, a diploma medical assisting program might be the right path for you.

Coming together in COVID-19

Since the dawn of civilization, epidemics and pandemics have continued to haunt mankind. From the outbreak of Spanish Flu to Yellow fever, history of these pandemics dates back to the time of plague in Athens (430 B.C).But perhaps; COVID-19 (spread by SARS-COV-2 virus) is greatest in the history of mankind. This particular virus has brought entire world to a halt, something that the modern world history hasn’t witnessed before.

The virus, whose roots can be traced back to Hubei Province in China, has spread globally causing the infected number of cases rising over 92 lakh. From the Superpowers to third world countries, this virus has brought down healthcare sector, economies and the entire human race on its knees; India being no exception. Yes, various sectors such as healthcare, education, energy, and logistics have faced a serious crunch amidst lockdown. With the global economy shrinking to an all time low, economists predict a depression like situation in the near future. One might question whether we are heading towards an inevitable crisis? Or is the humanity doomed? Such negative thoughts do more harm to us than the virus itself.

Just like all other major turmoil and struggles, COVID-19 too comes with its own share of lessons and learning for the mankind. Lessons in humility, humanity and gratitude. These simple lessons which we had long forgotten in the rat race for materialistic pleasures.  While some countries initially played the “blame game” but very soon they realized that the mightiest weapon in combating the virus lies in unity and mutual co-operation. Shunning the geo-political differences, the SAARC countries came together and contributed to the COVID-19 relief fund. Other stories include those of Hindu-Muslim harmony in Telangana where a group of Muslim men performed the last rituals of a Hindu woman in the middle of lockdown restrictions. This virus has brought out heart warming stories of real heroes to the forefront. From the generous acts of donating her education savings by 13 yr old Nethra of Madurai, few Jamatis voluntarily coming forward to donate plasma serve as a ray of hope in these turbulent times.

Despite the social distancing, humanity is coming closer than ever before with a mutual sense of compassion, empathy and concern towards fellow human beings.  While we stay hidden indoors amidst fear, the mother earth is breathing back to life. Those little sparrows playing in my balcony, which I hadn’t seen in a long while, are a living testimony to that. The medical staff, sanitation workers and the COVID warriors whom we once took for granted are risking their lives to save ours. What else could be a nobler act than this!

The corona virus has indeed enabled us to look beyond economic differences. Becoming more sensitive and considerate towards our domestic helps. We’ve begun appreciating simple acts of kindness, engaging in deep conversations with our loved ones and clapping to say “thank you”. Our generation is more enlightened than ever before with the realisation however evolved the human race might become but in the end we’ll only remain a tiny spec in the universe. The forces of natural world are far mightier than we could possibly become. Humans may change the course of nature but can’t defy it.

The Chinese symbol “Ying and Yang” illustrates the philosophy of life beautifully. Life flows when energies complement rather than contradict each other. The mankind and nature must maintain balance for life to exist .The day we try to overpower the forces of natural world; it will only take a single microcosmic organism to perish the entire human race.

Yin and yang: business and IT | CIO

No, I’m not implying living in a utopian world and becoming ignorant of this deadly virus .True that our healthcare and education systems have failed required to meet necessary standards. But if it wasn’t for COVID-19, these loopholes might have gone neglected. There is no better time to reshape the economy, healthcare, politics and culture than now for the dawn of new world post COVID-19.

But why did it take a virus for this realisation?

Because sometimes we need to get sick in order to get better”.

Let’s change our outlook towards this pandemic. Instead of perceiving it as a threat we need to see it as opportunity and emerge stronger than ever before. We are a fortunate generation having the privilege to shape a better world than the one we left behind. All we need is to shed stigmas and embrace this change.

Concluding in the words of Yuval Noah Harrai (bestselling author of Sapiens)

“The storm will pass, humankind will survive, most of us will still be alive –but we will inhabit a different world.”

Yemen Crisis Explained

            Yemen Humanitarian Crisis - YouTube

There is a lot going on about the Yemen Crisis from 5 years and now the problem has even got worse with Covid-19. Yemen was once the heart of Ancient Arabia but then became one of the poorest countries in the world. Yemen is located at the edge of Arabian Peninsula and forms a BAB AL MANDAB- a narrow water way from which most of the oil of the world passes. So, who controls Yemen can control the oil around the world.

There are many groups and people responsible for the crises and the first one is Ali Abdullah Saleh who was President of Yemen for 20 years since 1990. Yemenis rose against Saleh because they were unhappy with him but they couldn’t remove him from his position. This is where the next player comes into the picture and that is Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia is the most influential member of a club of countries known as the Gulf Cooperation Council(GCC) and it was GCC that forced Saleh out. The GCC’s deal helped install a new government in Yemen and the former VP, ABD-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, became the President of Yemen. However, Yemen continued to suffer even under the leadership of Hadi. The people felt that the initiatives that were taken after the revolution brokered by Gulf powers who simply appeared to return the same old elites to power.

So, by 2014 some the Yemenis began to lose patience and one of the groups was the Houthis, who are another major group in this  war. The Houthis are the Shia Muslim community form Nothern Yemen. They feel that they have been marginalised and therefore often revolt against the government. The Houthis and Saleh both felt that they were sidelined by the GCC’s plan for Yemen’s new government and hence they both joined hands. The Houthis with some of the Saleh’s alliances in the Yemen military took over the capital of Yemen-Sanaa in 2014. Hadi fled to Saudi Arabia and then Saudis formed a coalition with several other countries to return their man Hadi to the power. 

As a result, Saudi intervened and started attacking the capital of Yemen to remove the Houthis. There were many air strikes and Saudis claim that they were attacking enemies, however many civilians were also injured and killed during these attacks. This brings us to the humanitarian crisis in Yemen. In this war, it’s not just the fighting that is causing all the suffering. Even aid is being used as a weapon. In 2015, the Saudi led coalition created a land, sea and air barrier around Yemen making it impossible for Yemen to receive any aid or supplies. The Houthis are also blamed for blocking, destroying or taking aid. The twist in the story comes when the Houthis and Saleh broke their alliance in 2017. Saleh switched sides and wanted to talk to the coalition but the Houthis killed him.

The Houthis are still controlling the capital of Yemen Sanaa and the Saudis think that they are getting help from Iran. Iran has been denying any help but Saudis insist that they are helping the Houthis as Iran’s major community is Shia. Recently, Saudi Arabia’s oil facilities were attacked and the Houthis claim that they were behind this attack . However, the weapons were proved to be Iranian.

Yemen is now in a desperate need of aid. The food is not sufficient, cholera cases are on a rise and with the world stopping due to Covid-19, the situation has gotten worse. In a country of 29 million people, the US says that 24 million people depend on some kind of humanitarian aid. Now, only diplomacy can put an end to this nightmare.


How to Stand out During a Phone Interview

Phone interviews are a common step in the job-search process.  Most often, hiring managers request phone screens before initiating an in-person interview. In these initial screenings, hiring managers expect the applicants to be as prepared as they would be for an in-person meeting. Here are a few steps to get ready for your next phone interview.

Have your material at hand 

In a phone interview, hiring managers will ask you about your work history and education, along with other necessary questions to establish your knowledge, skills, abilities and qualifications for the position. To answer these questions as thoroughly and thoughtfully as possible, have copies of your resume, previous job descriptions and any materials related to transcripts, degrees, or certifications at hand. This will minimize the potential for a lot of “lag” time that is often filled with awkward pauses while you search for the information you need. Being clear and articulate in your responses will show the interviewer that you are prepared and focused.

Practice your responses

During normal conversation, we tend to make up for our pauses with filler words, such as “um” and “like.” To sound more articulate, and to avoid being dismissed by the interviewer, practice how you would respond to typical interview questions ahead of time. If possible, record yourself and play it back to see if you rely heavily on the use of filler words. We are often unaware of our own speech patterns, so taking the extra time to practice your responses will help you sound more prepared and confident over the phone.

Research the company

 In a phone interview, hiring managers also like to hear the applicant’s questions about the company and the position. If an applicant does not have questions, it is a cue to the interviewer that the applicant didn’t do enough research.  Even if there are no obvious questions to ask, create a couple. For example, ask about how the position fits within the strategic plan of the organization, or how the company integrates different departments into the planning process. You can also ask questions about the reporting structure for the position, or about the top priorities for the person who fills the position. While these questions are usually asked in face-to-face interviews, you’ll want to have a few questions prepared to help you not only find out more about the company and position, but to show your interest in the company beyond getting the job.

Plan for comfort

Some folks are more comfortable on their feet than they are sitting in a chair and are able to project their voice better. If you prefer to pace when you are problem-solving or having important discussions such as an interview, you need to make sure your phone can keep up with your footwork. If you are using a mobile phone, make sure that you have a strong connection. If you are using a landline, adjust your call waiting so it doesn’t interrupt you during the conversation. If you prefer to sit, make sure that your chair is comfortable and that you have a table or desk in front of you to spread out your materials. Have a glass of water ready for those moments when you need to take a sip. If you’re in an area that might be loud, find a quiet place and shut the door. Never under-estimate the potential of your surroundings to interrupt your interview. Plan ahead to make sure that you’ll be comfortable during the call , which is why it’s better to schedule a call when you’re at home, not at the park or in a grocery store.

Take notes during your interview 

Finally, make sure you take notes during your interview.  Make notes on the questions they asked, the information they provided and some of the answers you provided. These notes will help you prepare for in-person interviews as you advance through the selection process.
By being well-prepared, you increase your opportunities for making a strong first impression during a phone interview. It isn’t easy to stand out from the other applicants over the phone, but by taking these steps you will make a positive impression that counts.
Jack McCallum has been with the online business department at Herzing University since 2011. When not teaching, she serves as the President/Principal Consultant for HR Balance LLC—a consulting company specializing in human resources management, organizational development, leadership coaching, and training/development. She started HR Balance LLC in 2003 after years of serving in a leadership capacity for a variety of for-profit and non-profit organizations. A keynote speaker and presenter, Jack has served as an industry expert for radio and print media.

3 Brain Training Apps to Try out Now

Just like you can train your body to get stronger, there are ways to give your brain even better capabilities. Working out at a gym allows you to tone your muscles and improve your cardiovascular stamina, while brain training apps can sharpen your brain, making it easier for you to focus and learn new skills.
It all comes back to the idea of neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to create new connections in response to certain circumstances or changes in your environment. Neuroplasticity helps you to retain memories, make fresh ones and even master unfamiliar skills.
Brain training apps use the process of neuroplasticity through games in an effort to help reshape the brain. According to Nadine Kaslow, Ph.D., professor and vice chair at Emory University’s Department of Psychiatry and President of the American Psychological Association, reports that apps can boost mental health through games that have been specifically designed to improve brain function. Next time you pick up your smartphone, consider downloading any of these three best brain training apps that will put your mind to the test:

Lumosity

This app is designed by a team of scientists and designers, and has more than 50 cognitive games that are tailored to different brain goals such as problem-solving, attention, processing speed and memory. Lumosity allows you to track your mental progress with each game and even compares your performance to the other 70 million people using the app. According to developers, just one session a day on the app may improve mental skills.

Elevate

Just like Lumosity, this brain app offers more than 35 mini games that target skills such as focus, math, speaking abilities, comprehension and memory. However, the app is a bit more personalized than its competitors. Elevate keeps track of how many times you log-in regularly and even tweaks the games to become more challenging as your mind becomes sharper.

Fit Brains Trainer

The designers of this app were able to make brain training both fun and challenging through more than 60 games and in-depth performance reports so you can track your progress. Fit Brains Trainer works to target all areas of the brain, including concentration, language and visual-spatial, memory and speed of thinking. However, it also focuses on the development of other skills, including self-control and social awareness. This app will even send you training reminders so you can constantly stay mentally sharp.

Mp banned online classes for pre primary and primary section

In madhya pradesh, the School education department has banned online classes of pre primary and primary classes. This bam is both for government and private schools 

The main reason for it is that many students across the state do not have digital device or data recharge facility,beca bec of this students are not able to attend online classs and losing their studies 
Anther reason for banning is by taking classes online at school hours, studying online through electric gadgets,it affect both the physical and mental health of the child.
Many parents do not want to pay extra for poor limitstioli of physical classes. It is also not possible to always supervise students in online classes 
For teachers it is tough in o line classes to gauge the learning of distant and distracted children.
According to sources the use of apps made in china in the operation of online classes is an other reason for it.
Due to covie19 pandemic  all schools are closed to keep the study go school are conducting online classes for all students now banning classes will have a different impact on the studies. For now surely we know it is impossible to reopen schools and we don’t know when the covid 19 go or its  vaccine will come 
We now have to think ahead and plan batter for an uncertain future. 
We need to build a flexible and effective education sturcutes. This ban will not prevent the elite form giving their children the best online education the world can offer. 

What is a Dental Hygienist?

Dental hygienists are dental professionals who work closely with other members of the dental team such as dentists, dental assistants and front desk staff.  Dental hygienists are most known for their clinical work, but they can also serve in several other roles, such as educator, researcher, administrator/manager and advocate. 
Some dental hygienists work their entire careers clinically, while others may start their career by working clinically for several years before moving to a different role of their choice.  Regardless of their desired role, all dental hygienists must complete a dental hygiene program before they can become certified to work with patients.

How long does it typically take to complete a dental hygiene program?

The length of a dental hygiene program varies by institution.  Earning an Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene typically take two years, while earning a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene typically takes four years. Many institutions also require students to fulfill several prerequisites before they can begin the dental hygiene program. Herzing University offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene in Minneapolis, Minnesota you may complete in three years with no prerequisites for program entry. 
At the end of a dental hygiene program, graduates must successfully complete a series of licensure exams for the state they choose to work in. The exams needed for licensure in Minnesota include: The National Dental Hygiene Board Examination (NBDHE), Central Regional Dental Testing Services (CRDTS) clinical exam and a state jurisprudence exam.

What does a dental hygienist do?

The range of services that dental hygienists can perform varies in each state. In Minnesota, dental hygienists are able to perform many services under general supervision, meaning the dentist must give his or her consent for the services to be performed. This gives dental hygienists a certain degree of freedom while treating patients. 
Clinical dental hygienists often have a large amount of flexibility in creating their own schedule.  Some hygienists choose to work three days a week, while others choose to work five days a week.  A typical schedule consists of six to ten patients per day, depending on the age of the patient and the procedure(s) being performed. 

Four of the skills you will master as a dental hygienist:

• Perform and interpret dental x-rays:

Dental hygienists often take x-rays (also known as radiographs) in order to gather information for a dental exam.  Although dental hygienists are not licensed to make an official diagnosis, dentists appreciate when a dental hygienists summarize their findings of possible areas of decay, periodontal bone levels and other artifacts prior to the dental exam

• Perform oral cancer screenings:

Oral cancer screenings should be completed as a part of every assessment. While dental hygienists cannot diagnose a patient with oral cancer, they can inform the dentist’s recommendation for treatment or suggest that the patient be referred to a pathologist or oral surgeon for further evaluation. 

• Perform preventative and non-surgical periodontal procedures: 

Dental hygienists focus on prevention.  A major part of dental prevention is receiving regular dental cleanings.  Preventative dental cleanings include child prophylaxis and adult prophylaxis, which are thorough cleanings meant to remove plaque and stains from the teeth. Dental hygienists can also provide other types of “dental cleanings” that fall under the preventative or non-surgical categories, such as scaling and root planing. The dental hygienist will perform an initial assessment of the patient’s current oral condition to determine the type of cleaning that is necessary.

Give local anesthetic injections:

In Minnesota and several other states, dental hygienists are able to administer local anesthetic to their patients to keep them comfortable during certain procedures, such as scaling or root planing. In some cases, dental hygienists also administer local anesthetic when a patient is undergoing a filling or tooth extraction.
Dental hygienists are an invaluable part of the dental team. In a clinical role, they assist the dentist in performing a variety of different dental procedures in order to ensure a patient’s oral health. Dental hygienists also help assess a patient’s oral condition and provide the necessary treatment. As a dental hygienist, you will master many different skills, all of which will help you provide exceptional dental care for your patients.
Ashley Chouinard, MS, LDH is the Department Chair for the Dental Hygiene program at Herzing University-Minneapolis. Professionally, Mrs. Chouinard has worked in the dental field as a Licensed Dental Hygienist, Dental Hygiene Supervisor and a Dental Office Assistant. Ashley works diligently to bring current in-the-field experiences to the classroom each day. Ashley earned her Master of Science degree in Education from the University of Wisconsin-Stout, her Bachelor of Science in Community Health from St. Cloud State University and her Associates of Science degree in Dental Hygiene from Normandale Community College.