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Cyber Bullying is a serious problem!


Internet and mobile phones have become an inseparable part of our lives. When the internet was out, there were restrictions on its usage that were imposed on children by the parents almost everywhere. At least they would use it under an adult’s supervision. Now that the use of the internet has become inevitable because of the school requirements and its necessity in the making of assignments and projects, parents really can’t help but make it accessible for their children.

Since we all are aware of the risks and dangers of cell phones and the internet entail, we ensure that they don’t adversely impact our children and their vulnerable brains. Are the web restrictions like age gate, safe search and family filters enough to keep our kids protected from every kind of possible harm in the cyber world? Do we only need to worry about that inappropriate content on the internet or there are other things too?

“Cyber bullying is a term used for bullying kids using technology including digital or social media. It involves the use of harassment, threat, and provocation that leave a negative impact on the mind, mood and overall psychological position of the child. It occurs in kids and teens and normally young children of all age groups. In adults, the same acts constitute a legally punishable crime known as cyber-stalking or cyber-harassment.”

Misuse of your child’s photos, messages or any other thing on digital media, any messages or calls that tend to scare your child out of their wits, acts like calling names, causing embarrassment and insult, faking identities etc., all are acts of cyber bullying. Most victims of cyber bullying don’t share their grief with their parents or teachers. According to a recent study, 1 in every 4 children encounters cyber bullying.

The consequences of cyber bullying vary from child to child. Some children are not that seriously affected by it while others can develop conditions like depression, anxiety, and disorders involving high stress. In some rarely reported cases, some children have even committed suicides that were either provoked by cyber bullying or merely attempted to get rid of it.

It’s not really difficult to spot if a child is being bullied online if we’re smart enough and know our children. Cyber bullying can result in increased distress for the victims along with increased anger and frustration. They will vent this out on various occasions, and it might force them to get addicted to the virtual world where they can have several identities to hide their real one.

The victims will automatically have lower self-esteem since that is the sole purpose of bullying. Prolonged bullying will lead to severe withdrawal from their family and friends. They will begin favoring isolation most of the time and indulging in harmful activities like drugs and alcohol.

Cyber bullying is a serious issue, and it can be truly horrific to go through such a difficult period. Staying strong and fighting back is the only option against these bullies. It’s possible to get over it and live your life again. Seeing a counselor can help the victims handle the incident in a better and a safe way. Life does not get over if you are a victim of cyber bullying and it is possible to fight back.

The Influence of Advertisement: Changing people's way of life

“Taste the Thunder!” A popular beverage slogan of ‘Thumbs Up’ promotes what they call “Fearlessness”.  Advertisement like this is often a persuasion for action, an action to get alongside with what the advertisement display. The advertising industry revolves around creating commercial messages urging the purchase of new or improved products or services in a variety of media i.e. print, online, digital, television, radio, and outdoor. 

Advertisement is impacting the society in many ways especially inducing a factor of not required materialism. The world is now moving fast, and the people don’t have enough time to think on their own, and is where these advertisements are more strongly playing its role in bringing the materialism to society. Now people cannot live without smartphones or cars etc., they are more attracted to new models or new styles. Advertisement display how these products bring life to them and happiness is only possible with the possession of a product fading out the image of real happiness and satisfaction which comes from inner self and not by involving in this material world and its contents.

What is also important is the way in which these advertisements are operating to the mindset of people to be attracted towards these advertisements. The answers to these questions lie in the fact that these advertisements are suggesting material possession will add to the social life of an individual and they will be more accepted in society. There are some of the most talented people, in the advertising industry, who are experts in reading the mind of common people, and thus what they do is simply providing the people what they want to see by understanding the intricacies of their life and thus manage to sell the things which are nothing but a part of a materialistic world. We now don’t go for things that are cheap and can satisfy our needs, rather we go for things better advertised. We now go for the brand over quality and other parameters. We should not be amazed that what we call as brands are those who claim them to be one is advertisements. Living in a society filled with these advertisements those people made, our thinking power has been totally debarred.

Although advertisements have always created a false image of the world in front of us, to reverse the condition we must make the utmost of the advertisements to make good impacts on the society since we have understands completely how they work on us. By advertising, we must be repeatedly reminded how the world is on brotherhood rather than excelling over brothers. By advertising, we must be constantly put in mind the importance of thinking of the environment rather than having fasting moving cars, expensive watches, and the latest fashion. By advertising, we must be continually alerted that satisfaction and happiness come from the inner heart not from the material world.

In a word, we are living in an age of advertisement perpetually disillusioning us and spreading perfect life before us every day, but what we can do is keeping in mind what really matters to us, and take advantage of the advertisements.

How to ensure Master Plan Implementation

 Implementation of plan proposals has direct implications on urban growth and development. For this, a vibrant, robust and coordinated network of institutions and information system is essential for full utilization of available financial and other resources judiciously. Besides, a set of tools are needed to implement plan properly. These tools include legal protection of plan, regulatory measures of land use controls, i.e., land and zoning regulations, building regulations etc., controls on development activities and capital enhancement programmes. Other subordinate tools like tax policy, township policy, land acquisition, institutional reorganization, incentives for public-private partnerships etc. must be attuned to the goals and objectives of the master plan. 

Further, the plan constantly need its translation into socio-economic and investment programmes. However, spatio-temporal variations in availability of planning tools and their limitations should be recognized during preparation of plan to ensure its successful implementation. For instance, land use zoning or compulsory purchase of land may well exist on paper or in legislation but are not effective in practice. Such exercise enhances effectiveness of master plans and their implementation on ground level. 

The execution of master plan is carried out either by municipality or corporation. For execution a team of experts in Engineering, Architecture, Public health, Sociology, Economics, Finance etc. headed by a Town Planner is required. After the master plan is accepted and approved by the concerned authority, the steps to be taken will be 

  1. To fix the broad policies in connection with various proposals. 
  2. To prepare the list of the urgent works according to their priorities. 
  3. To prepare the detailed estimates of work of top priority. 
  4. To prepare a financial programme. 

It takes many years to complete the works contemplated in the master plan. The cost is also very high amount. So the expenditure will have to be distributed over several years. Moreover, several modifications will have to be made as such no final estimate is made in the initial stage. The most important part of master plan is the reservation of land for road system, open spaces, and public amenities, which cannot be provided for at a later date. Once it is finalized, no building should be allowed to construct which will upset the street system. 

Following inputs from preceding stages and prevailing statutes, a seamless plan implementation schedule must be prepared for development plan. It should contain roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders, resource mobilization framework and phase‐wise implementation schedule for planned project activities. The key aspects to be covered in the Implementation framework should be in line with aims, objectives and prioritized projects and schemes. Implementation framework may include the following: 

  • Priorities of projects and research 
  • Phasing of developmental activities 
  • Proposal for land resource mobilization 
  • Investment strategy and promotion 
  • Institutional set‐up 

1) Priorities 

Classify various projects identified as a part of development proposals by priority as under 

  • Essentials (Top priority)
  • Necessary (2nd priority)
  • Acceptable and desirable (3rd priority) 
  • Deferrable (4th priority) 

Projects and research should be identified by phases and implementing agencies (including private and corporate sectors) to be given as per the institutional setup. 

2) Phasing 

Development plan should advisably be in phases of 5 years to coincide with the state five year plans. The targets set for each phase can be assessed as the mid‐term review against the achievements at the end of each phase. For greenfield area phasing could include a ‘zero’ period for approvals, institutional set‐up, initial land pooling and revisiting any strategy. 

3) Proposal for Land Resource Mobilization 

Implementation mechanism detailing approaches for land polling and development in lines with the suggested mechanism in the state perspective plan. 

4) Investment Strategy 

Proposals for fiscal resource mobilization including: 

  • Internal revenue 
  • Grants and aids 
  • Institutional finance 
  • Market borrowing 
  • Private sector finance 

5) Institutional Setup 

 To clearly provide Stakeholders’ role and responsibility and organisation chart.

Appearance vs Reality of Merchant of Venice-3

Most importantly, Shylock.He is introduced as this very self-centred person who only cares about money and is portrayed as a really bad person only basis that he was a jew and he lends money with interest. He is the antagonist in the play. Even though his actions and behaviour was not the best, I honestly feel he is the way he is only because he was treated the way he was.i believe he is a good person.as for the thing about lending money with an interest, as it is given that at the time the play was set, 1598; London, England and at the time, Jews either having been “forced,” or voluntarily choosing to abandon landholding and with no alternative but choosing moneylending as a livelihood.

He doesn’t hurt anyone intentionally.i think the real reason he has this cruel hatred towards Antonio is that he bullies

I think the real reason to why Shylock’s actions towards Antonio are so evil is mainly because of the evil things done to him. Antonio bullies Shylock and treats him really badly.  This is proved when he asks if Jews don’t get sad, hurt, happy and angry just like Christians. It clearly shows that Shylock acts like a bad person because people around him made him that way. just like the saying:

People say that I’ve turned bad, but the thing they don’t understand is that the same people are the ones who changed me.

I feel really moved for Shylock because he is the only one who really suffers in this play. Everyone has a happy ending into the play except him. It is as if all the bad luck has been dumped on him. To one extent Shakespeare has cut him some slack as at the end the audience does feel sympathy for Shylock. As begun from everyone hating him for choosing a living by taking interest for loans he gives out, to being a Jew. I do understand at the time of this play is set it was a very conservative society and Shakespeare was only trying to interest his audience with relatability. In the play, Shylock goes through a lot of loses. He loses his beloved whom he deeply moved and trusted daughter when she elopes with what he calls “the enemy”. Robbing him of his money and jewels too. Knowing that this Jessica doesn’t have any materialistic values and how she doesn’t understand them is quite unsympathetic.

I strongly believe what he did with being adamant with getting revenge as in cutting the man was very rude but the thing is that the only reason the man did that was that after all these ill-luck happening to him, he saw a chance of revenge in Antonio. Antonio was in a way the face of Christians, ones who caused him all the bad things, and wanted to win at least once. And it is clearly proved when Antonio is off the noose and gives him a hell life to live. Just like flipping a coin, two-faced. It was so confusing when he changed from begging shylock to making Shylock a beggar. Just for making Shylock made Antonio feel powerless for merely a month, which was only due to how Antonio treated him his whole life, because to his inferiority complex, he took away everything the man had left. Taking away his money and making him a Christian, as a whole taking away his free life and only happiness.

All these actions and traits really make all the protagonist as the antagonist and vice – versa.


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.