According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 46 states recorded unemployment increases for the month of March 2009. Although unemployment rate increases were significant in some states, bringing some state unemployment rates up to as high as 11.2% (California), other states’ overall rate still remains low. North Dakota reported an unemployment rate of 4.2% — one of the lowest in the country.

The good news is if you are starting a new career or looking to change careers there are professional and industries that are continuing to grow, even during the recession.

Health care has remained number one spot on the list of top careers to pursue in a recession.   Not matter what the economy people will always get sick. This means clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, diagnostic labs, and private practices will continue to thrive, even through worst economic storms.   Number two on the list is energy.   The energy industry is expected to continue to grow as this industry continues to search for more efficient ways to provide energy without actually using as much.

Education is number three on the list of top careers to pursue in a recession. There are hundreds of thousands of pre-schools, middle schools, and high schools across the country. And according to The Association of American Colleges and Universities, there are 2,618 accredited four-year colleges and universities in the U.S. The vast majority of colleges and universities operate privately or as part of state governments. Based on these figures and the nature of education as a necessity in just about every stage of life, there will always be a high demand for quality teachers, teacher assistants, instructors, professors, administrators, and office personnel.

Number four and five on the list are utilities and international business.   As we know, no matter what the conidtion of the economy, we will always need electric, gas, and water services, so unility related job will remain constant throughout the recession.   Even during these hard economic time, people with interanational buiness backgrounds will be need to right the US economy, so the international business communitiy will remain constant throughout the recession.

No matter what career you choose to enter, the need for additional education is paramount.  Learn more about the professional diplomas, programs and degrees available to help you achieve your career goals.

As the need for health care workers increase, many students are considering a bachelors in human services.  The Bachelor of Science in Human Services is intended to give graduates knowledge and basic skills to work in the human services industry. The Bachelor of Science in Human Services is an integrated program combining academic instruction in the foundations of human services such as counseling, social work and psychology with applied skills for students whose goal is a career in the growing field of human services. This major is designed to be an applied degree, which teaches strategies and techniques of intervention and good management practices for intervention at individual, family, group, organization, and community levels. Human services graduates are prepared to provide services in a variety of community settings. This program takes an interdisciplinary approach to the development of a students knowledge and skills and provides instruction in four major areas: theoretical foundations, diversity and population needs, research and program evaluation, and intervention methods and skills. Students obtain a background in social work, enabling them to work in managed care, government agencies, and other provider organizations.

Learn more about schools that offer the bachelors of human services.

There are more than 900 federal grant programs in existence in the U.S. today, offered by 26 federal grant-making agencies. Most students will receive some form of financial aid that must repaid, but federal grants do not have to be repaid.  There are two types of grand need-based, which is based on you and your family’s financial background and includes certain academic criteria, and merit-based, which is are based on achievements.  Merit based grants are often granted by companies and organizations.

Below are some grant available to you:

Pell Grant

Pell Grants are awarded to undergraduate students who have not earned a bachelor’s degree or a professional degree. In some cases, however, a student enrolled in a post-baccalaureate teacher certification program might receive a Pell Grant. Pell Grants represent a foundation of federal financial aid, to which aid from other federal and non federal sources might be added. The maximum Pell Grant award for the 2008-2009 award year, which begins July 1, 2008 and ends June 30, 2009 is $4,731. For the 2009-2010 award year, July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010, the maximum award is $5,350.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity (FSEOG) Grant

The FSEOG Program provides need-based grants to low-income undergraduate students to promote access to post secondary education. Students can receive these grants at any one of approximately 4,000 participating post secondary institutions. Financial need is determined by the U.S. Department of Education, using a standard formula, to determine the family’s Estimated Family Contribution (EFC). The EFC is the sum of: (1) a percentage of net income (remaining income after subtracting allowances for basic living expenses) and (2) a percentage of net assets (assets remaining after subtracting an asset protection allowance). The maximum Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) available to eligible students is $4,000 per year. Awards may be granted in amounts ranging from $100 to $4,000.

National Science & Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grant (SMART)

The SMART Grant awards student up to $4,000 for each of the third and fourth years of undergraduate study in the following areas of study: physical, life or computer sciences, mathematics, technology, engineering, or a foreign language determined critical to national security. In order to be eligible students must:

• Be a U.S. citizen
• Be Pell Grant-eligible during the same award year
• Be enrolled full-time
• Be in the third or fourth year of an undergraduate degree program at a four-year degree-granting institution
• Be pursuing a major in physical, life, or computer sciences, mathematics, technology, engineering or a critical foreign language
• Have at least a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale as of the end of the second award year and continue to maintain a 3.0 GPA that must be checked prior to the beginning of each payment period (e.g., semester)

It is important to note that the amount of the SMART Grant, when combined with a Pell Grant, may not exceed the student’s cost of attendance.

Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG)

The Academic Competitiveness Grant is new program that became available for the first time for the 2006-2007 school year. The ACG provides up to $750 for the first year of undergraduate study and up to $1,300 for the second year of undergraduate study. The ACG is in addition to the student’s Pell Grant award.

To be eligible for the Academic Competitiveness Award, students must:

• Be a U.S. citizen;
• Be a Federal Pell Grant recipient for the same award year;
• Be enrolled full-time in a degree program;
• Be enrolled in the first or second academic year of his or her program of study at a two-year or four-year degree-granting institution;
• Have completed a rigorous secondary school program of study (after January 1, 2006, if a first-year student, and after January 1, 2005, if a second-year student);
• If a first-year student, not have been previously enrolled in an undergraduate program; and
• If a second-year student, have at least a cumulative 3.0 grade point average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale for the first academic year.

Learn more about the finanical aid available to you at different colleges and universities.

As American grow older, the need for health care workers and specialist continues to grow.  Online colleges and universities offer programs to help people like you become dialysis technicians.  Dialysis Technicians, also called Hemodialysis or Renal Dialysis Technicians, operate kidney dialysis machines, which filter normal waste products and excess fluids from the blood of patients whose kidneys can no longer perform that function.   Dialysis Technicians have clinical and technical skills, and can be responsible for both direct patient care, as well as dialysis equipment maintenance and repair.    Dialysis Technician programs are designed to provide students with a comprehensive introduction to the field of hemodialysis and the skills required for entry-level employment as a Dialysis Technician.

Classroom instruction includes principles of dialysis, anatomy and physiology of the kidney, fluid and electrolyte balance, hematologic aspects, infectious diseases, dialysis systems and equipment, vascular access to circulation, dietary regulation, blood chemistries, complications of renal failure, psychosocial aspects, and an overview of peritoneal dialysis and renal transplantation.  Externships can include instruction and hands-on experience in the preparation of artificial kidneys, physical assessments, universal precautions, fluid management, initiating and concluding dialysis, access to circulation, patient equipment monitoring, and the treatment of routine hemodialysis problems in accordance with dialysis procedures.

Learn more about dialysis technican programs.

Finding the right college or university can be difficult.  Overall, there are more than 4,100 colleges and universities in the United States alone. While finding an endless number of colleges and universities to choose from is easy, the sheer number of schools can make comparing colleges a daunting task.

One of the first things to consider when creating a targeted list of colleges is budget.   If you plan to finance your education through loans and/or income from a full or part-time job, this will help narrow your search significantly. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that many colleges offer grants and scholarships, so be sure to include these types of schools on your list even if the tuition is beyond your budget.

Some things to consider when comparing colleges and universities:

Admission Procedures and Requirements

Any school can provide detailed information regarding their admission process including application process, any interview process, etc.

Cost and Financial Aid

Cost and financial aid information covers tuition and fee information for both campus and online students.

Location

If you plan to go to a state school, there may be plenty of options. The location within your state may very well be a deal breaker for you. Noting the exact location of each school will help gauge commuting times if necessary or how far you may be end up being away from home. This may be less of an issue for you if you are choosing to attend online courses.

Type of School

The type of school affects price, financial aid, grant offerings, scholarship programs, and more.  Private and public school have many pros and cons.   It’s best to remain open to both types of colleges while comparing schools.

Learn more aobut choosing the right college or university.

There is a growing need for qualified mediators as the courts, private businesses, public organizations, and families increasingly recognize the effectiveness and cost-saving benefits of mediation. Mediation is an attractive alternative to settling differences in court. Disputing parties can save thousands of dollars and months of wasted time by mediating an acceptable settlement.  Online colleges and universities offer courses designed to give professionals the knowledge and skills to provide mediation services.

Learn more about mediation and other criminal justice programs available.

One of the biggest myths about college is you have to have straight A’s to get into a good college or university.  While it is true that straight A’s can be extremely useful when applying for the most competitive academic scholarships, a large number of college admission boards, understand that some of the best students don’t always perform to their full potential in high school.  So, if you are willing to put in the time and effort, meaning, come up with a solid list of colleges that welcome B students and create an excellent application package to get your foot in the door.

It is important to note that these colleges are looking for quality students that are willing to make the most of their education.   The entry requirements are just more open-minded than some institutions. You will still be held to a high standard from the admission process to the day you graduate.

When applying to these colleges and universities, you should “put your best foot forward” by making the most of the application process.  Most schools offer admission counselors to guide you through the process.  Here are a few tips to make the most of the admission process:

• Ensure your application is complete and includes all requested information
• Make sure your application essay is heart felt–this will allow you to rise above the crowd
• Accept assistance and guidance from the school’s admission counselors
• Be sure to prepare thoroughly for your admissions interview
• Relax and have fun—You are about to begin the next phase of your life!

Learn more about schools for B students or the admission process.

Online colleges and universities provide students with valuable career development services that begin from the moment you begin classes.   These services can help students achieve their career goals faster.    Employment assistance programs begins long before you graduate and continues afterward whether you are relocating or just looking for a new opportunity.

Online colleges and universities can help you start developing resume long before graduation. This helps you understand how your coursework, internships, volunteering and part-time jobs all work together to build a strong resume.   The career development services can assist you with cover letters, help polish your portfolio, and help strengthen your interviewing techniques.

Many student enrolled in one in these colleges and universities also  have access to potential employers through the local campus career development services department.   Often  a number of high-profile national employers also visit these schools to conduct interviews.

Learn more about the career development services available to you.

Enrolling in colleges and universities can be an expensive process.  Not only are you responsible for your personal finances, but those finances now include school and school related activities.  Below are money saving tips for every student.

1. Choose the Right Bank

Choosing the right bank is important to ensure you make the most of your money, especially when you are paying for a college or university education.  Remember to consider ATM and monthly fees and compare across several banks.

2. Watch where your money goes

Use your receipts and bank statements to create a monthly budget. Many students don’t keep an accurate count of how much they spend and where they spend it.    Without an accurate budget and record of your expenditures, it’s very easy to end up overdrawing your bank account.

3. Don’t hang out with big spenders–unless you can afford to be one

Many student surround themselves with friends that are big spenders. There friends choose to go to do group activities that include eating $20 meals and shop often.  These activities can be fun and allow you to blow off steam and bond with your friends–just be sure you can afford to keep up with your friends and their expenditures.

4. Don’t go overboard on food and phone

Many students spend too much money on going out to eat and buying food.  Others go beyond their monthly allotment for phone minutes and text allowance and incur significant phone charges.  These expenses can eat into your overall monthly buget.  Be careful to budget accordingly for these charges and dont’ go beyond that budget.

5. Expect the unexpected

No matter how well you budget, the unexpected expense will always occur. By carefully assessing your monthly budget and personal and educational goals you can minimize the impact of these unexpected expenses.

Learn which college and universities offer finanical assistance to help you manage your money.

1.  Clearly Define Why You Are Attending College

Many college students really don’t have a clear reason for being there other than the fact that they don’t know what else to do yet.  Many family have a college education as a goal for their children.  The question is–is  your goal?

2. Imagine your ideal college experience

Once you know why you’re going to college, imagine your ideal outcome.  Whether you’ve already started college or are ready to start college, take a few minutes to  write down the attributes of your ideal experience.  Describe it in as much detail as possible.

3. Take at least one extra class each semester

Students are taught that 12-15 semester units (3-5 classes) is a “full” schedule, but that’s actually a pretty light schedule.   A person with a full-time job will put in a good 40+ hours per week, and students enjoy every possible vacation day plus spring break, winter break, and summer vacation.  If you want to spend four or more years in college, add more degrees or get a job on the side.  Don’t feel you have to go at a snail’s pace just because everyone else does.

4. Set clear goals for each class

Decide what you want out of each specific class.  Is this a subject you’re eager to learn?  Do you want to target this teacher for a letter of recommendation?  Is this a required class you must take but which doesn’t otherwise interest you?

Your goals for each class should determined how often you show up, whether I’d sit in the front or the back, how actively I’d participate, and even the type of relationship  you  establish with the professor.

5. Manage you time according to your goals

Many students realize they don’t need to put the same amount of effort into every class.    You many put extra effort into a class if it’s important to you or it fulfills specific goals you have set for yourself.  Also many students realize that subjects and classes that are easier or come more easily to them as students, require less effort.  Feel free to evaluate and manage your time by a set of goals and standards.

6.Get an early start to each day

We’ve heard this all our lives–the early bird that gets the worm.  Many student find that setting an early morning routine gives them more time to accomplish their goals and sets the tone for their entire day.

7. Reclaim wasted time during your classes

Not every class is going to require your utmost concentration–some professors babble, discuss irrelevant material, or reiterate materials from previous classes.  Many students evaluate what percentage of class time requires their complete, focused attention?  For some classes it may be 90%…for others it’s 30%.   If you aren’t actively learning during class, you’re wasting time.  If a class is really challenging, sit in the front and soak up every word.

8. Learn material the very first time it’s presented

One of the biggest time wasters in school is having to relearn something you didn’t learn properly the first time.  When students say they’re studying, most of the time they’re making up for a previous failure to learn the material.  So, take the time to learn the material the first time–it’s a big time saver.

9.Master advanced memory techniques.

One of the keys to learning material the first time it’s taught is to train yourself in advanced memory techniques.   There are many classes that require pure memory.  Advance memory tools can be as simple as memorizing everything a professor writes on the blackboard or as advance as using memory techniques to “trick” your mind into remembering complex names, dates, etc.

10. Learn to have some serious fun

When you challenge yourself academically, don’t give yourself plenty of time for fun as well.  Don’t squander your leisure time hanging around doing nothing.  Go out and do something active that will blow off steam and increase your energy.

Learn more about the college and universities that fit your education goals.