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Exciting Career Opportunities In Construction And What To Expect

Two focuses of my blog are Career Discussions and General Education. A career in the construction sector can be very lucrative, and this sector will continue evolving over time. The following contributed post is entitled, Exciting Career Opportunities In Construction And What To Expect.

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The construction industry offers a wealth of career opportunities, catering to a wide range of interests, skill sets, and professional goals. Whether you’re drawn to designing structures, managing projects, or physically building the environments we live and work in, construction provides a dynamic and rewarding career path. This article explores the variety of roles available in the sector, the skills needed to succeed, and what to expect from a career in construction.

The Scope of Careers in Construction

Construction is one of the most diverse industries, encompassing various specialties. Some of the key career paths include:

1. Skilled Trades

Skilled trades are the backbone of the construction industry. These roles include carpenters, electricians, plumbers, masons, and steelworkers. Professionals in these fields are responsible for executing specific tasks, often requiring years of hands-on experience or apprenticeships.

2. Project Management

Construction project managers oversee the planning, execution, and completion of projects. They manage budgets, timelines, and teams, ensuring that all elements come together efficiently. A strong understanding of the construction process and excellent leadership skills are essential for this role.

3. Architecture and Design

Architects and designers focus on conceptualizing and planning structures, balancing aesthetics, functionality, and safety. They collaborate with engineers and construction teams to bring their designs to life.

4. Engineering

Structural, civil, and mechanical engineers play critical roles in construction projects. They ensure that buildings are safe, durable, and meet regulatory standards. Engineers often specialize in specific types of projects, such as bridges, skyscrapers, or residential buildings.

5. Equipment Operation and Maintenance

Construction equipment operators handle machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, and excavators. Proper operation of these machines is essential for safety and efficiency on-site.

6. Safety and Compliance

Safety officers and compliance specialists are responsible for ensuring that construction sites adhere to health, safety, and environmental regulations. Their work minimizes risks and protects workers, equipment, and the surrounding environment.

Skills Needed for Success

A career in construction requires a mix of technical knowledge, physical ability, and interpersonal skills. Key competencies include:

● Technical Skills: Proficiency in specific tools, equipment, and techniques is crucial for skilled tradespeople and equipment operators. For architects and engineers, expertise in design software and building codes is essential.
● Problem-Solving: Construction projects often encounter unexpected challenges. Creative and practical problem-solving skills help professionals adapt and keep projects on track.
● Communication: Construction involves collaboration among diverse teams. Effective communication ensures everyone understands project goals, timelines, and responsibilities.
● Physical Stamina and Dexterity: Many construction jobs are physically demanding, requiring strength, coordination, and endurance.
● Attention to Detail: Precision is vital in construction to ensure safety, quality, and adherence to specifications.
● Leadership: For roles in management and supervision, the ability to lead and motivate teams is indispensable.

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What to Expect in a Construction Career

Working in construction can be both challenging and rewarding. Here’s what you can anticipate:

1. Dynamic Work Environments

Construction sites are dynamic and often change daily as projects progress. Depending on your role, you may work indoors, outdoors, or a mix of both. Weather conditions, site hazards, and tight deadlines can add to the complexity of the job.

2. Job Security

Construction is a cornerstone of the global economy. As populations grow and urbanization continues, the demand for construction professionals remains strong. Skilled workers, in particular, are often in high demand.

3. Career Growth Opportunities

The construction industry offers numerous paths for career advancement. For instance, skilled tradespeople can move into supervisory roles, while project managers may take on larger or more complex projects. Many companies also provide on-the-job training and support for certifications or degrees.

4. Earnings Potential

Compensation in construction varies widely depending on role, location, and experience. Skilled trades and specialized roles, such as crane operators or safety inspectors, often command competitive salaries. Management and engineering roles typically offer higher earnings, reflecting the increased responsibility.

5. Focus on Safety

Safety is a top priority in construction. Workers are equipped with protective gear such as Construction Helmets, gloves, and harnesses to minimize risks. Companies invest heavily in training and procedures to ensure workplace safety.

6. Physical and Mental Demands

Construction work can be physically taxing, requiring heavy lifting, climbing, and extended hours of standing or walking. Mental demands, such as managing stress, multitasking, and solving complex problems, are also part of the job.

In Conclusion

A career in construction is more than just building structures; it’s about creating environments that shape our daily lives. With opportunities ranging from hands-on trades to high-level management, the industry offers something for everyone. By cultivating the right skills, prioritizing safety, and embracing growth opportunities, you can build a fulfilling career in this essential field. Whether you’re starting out or considering a shift, construction promises a path rich with possibilities.

Reasons Why You Should Consider Learning a New Language

A key focus of my blog is Career Discussions and General Education. Learning a new language is a tremendous power and can have a myriad of benefits. The following contributed post is entitled, Reasons Why You Should Consider Learning a New Language.

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Photo by Tirachard Kumtanom

Learning a new language is a very rewarding experience and it’s going to come with a lot of benefits. It can be daunting to think about diving into uncharted waters and learning something new especially if you haven’t done something like that in a while.

Most people had their first encounter with learning a language in school and if you have been out of that environment for a while it can be very intimidating to start learning a language again. However, it’s worth taking a look at the benefits so that you can decide whether it’s time to force yourself off of the fence of indecision.

Enhanced Cognitive Abilities

If you’re planning on learning a new language you should know that it’s going to stimulate your brain. This is going to lead to enhanced cognitive function for you. There are many studies that have shown that when you’re bilingual it helps you to solve your problems a whole lot better.

It also improves your memory and gives you greater multitasking ability. This is a mental exercise and it will keep your brain sharp. It can be used to offset age-related cognitive decline in some cases. Those are undeniably amazing benefits that you really can’t afford to throw away.

Career Opportunities

It’s a globalized world and being proficient in multiple languages is going to enhance your career prospects. Many companies have begun to favor employees who can communicate with their International clients and partners.

When you’re fluent in a second language, doors are going to swing open for you to help you with job opportunities and promotions. You may even open up the possibility of working abroad when you do this.

It’s going to set you apart from your competitors in the job market and firmly showcase your commitment to your personal and professional growth. This is always going to be impressive and make you look good to employers. You can learn Spanish online at websites that are dedicated to teaching the language remotely.

Cultural Awareness and Connection

Learning a new language is going to provide you with a deeper understanding of a different culture, traditions and perspectives as well. It’s going to allow you to connect more authentically with people from many different backgrounds. This type of cultural awareness is going to boost your empathy and your tolerance. It’s going to broaden your view of the whole world.

Whether you’re going to be traveling and making new friends or you’re simply going to be consuming media in that language, you’re going to find that you feel a deeper connection and awareness for other cultures.

Personal Growth and Confidence

When you take on a challenge and conquer it you’re going to feel good about yourself. When you approach a new language it can feel like you’re about to climb Mount Everest.

However, once you reach the top of that mountain and start speaking the language fluently, you’re going to feel a massive amount of success as waves of pride will start washing over you. This will make it all worth it.

Is Wealth Building Boring? Should It Be? A 2024 Financial Thought Piece

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“The fact that you don’t have any major financial hiccups or issues or news to report is a good thing!”

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A Quick Plug

Hello. Thank you for clicking on this link and I hope you enjoy this essay. Writing a book was the genesis of me blogging and becoming a video content creator. I am close to publishing part one of my book project entitled, The Engineers: A Western New York Basketball Story. Please consider visiting the page to learn more about the project and see promotional content I’ve created surrounding the project. And now on to our feature presentation.

I Don’t Like Your Financial Messages!

“I’ve seen some of the financial writings you post on Facebook Anwar and I don’t like them,” an acquaintance I’ll anonymously call Jenny told me at a social gathering in upstate New York. Jenny was a lawyer who I knew for years. We were in school at the same time at a highly prestigious anonymous university.

We weren’t what I would consider close but her words surprised me and were worth capturing. I knew Jenny well enough to know why my financial writings would cause her heartburn. My writings encouraged smart money management and planning which some would consider being frugal. Frugal is a word that is often confused with being cheap. I wrote an essay about that years ago which you can read at this link.

Jenny’s words surprised me because as a print and video content creator, you never know who is consuming your content until they say something. One of the podcaster Chris Williamson’s guests in fact stated that less than 10% of viewers openly interact with your content. The majority are ‘lurkers’ who watch and observe but don’t say anything. Jenny lurked and revealed her disapproval of my frugal messaging when I least expected it. Jenny will appear towards the end of this essay and will help me finish it up, so stay tuned.

My Financial Team’s Surprising Assessment

If the title of this blog post sucked you in, it was meant to. This is not clickbait though I can assure you. This piece was inspired by real life experiences like many of my writings and it is certain to touch someone. The principle of wealth building being boring is something I’d heard about several times up until now, but this particular experience made it stick in my mind and craft this essay. This happens a lot in life.

“The fact that you don’t have any major financial hiccups or issues or news to report is a good thing,” a member of the anonymous gentlemen I refer to as my financial team said. “Wealth building is supposed to be boring and unexciting,” the other member continued. “Keep doing what you are doing Dr. Dunbar. You are doing well.”

The Era of Consumption

Wealth building is supposed to be boring? I was surprised but not surprised to hear them say this. They were both two financially savvy men who were well versed in the markets and trends. They were further not the types to follow the crowd and societal trends in terms of consumption and spending. It made sense that they would make such comments and conclusions.

Their words were in direct opposition to the mass marketing we’re all bombarded with which emphasizes consumption above all else. Being a content creator compels me to spend time on social media, more than I admittedly should at times. Regardless of the platform, I see the consumption and the excesses, some of which makes you wonder how people are paying for the things they’re doing. Take a peek into the world of Instagram to see what I’m talking about. Also look up ads from companies such as Temu. That said, you see similar things in real life too, so consumption and overspending are not restricted to cyberspace.

Boring Habits

“What are you having for dinner later on?” An acquaintance from the church I attended asked me about the remainder of my day after service one Sunday.

“Oh I’m going to have some leftover beans and rice (Emiril Lagasses’s recipe),” I replied, feeling good about my cooking skills.

“That’s boring. That’s boring,” she playfully jabbed at me, but also partially being serious.

I didn’t know what to think when she said this to me. Eating leftovers was a part of my lifestyle growing up that stayed with me over the years. It made sense to me to make large quantities of a meal and then to continue to eat it in the future. It was very cost effective too and ‘stretched’ dollars out. I also understood in hindsight that this habit could be seen as boring to individuals who solely eat out and who can’t cook or both.

I later found that part of the culture of the Washington, DC metro area, particularly among the black professionals, was eating out, eating out well and not a chain restaurants (Applebee’s, TGI Fridays or Ruby Tuesday for example). Many people proudly touted themselves as ‘foodies’. Sunday brunch after church services was more holy for some people than the actual morning worship.

What might be some other boring habits? The following are potentially boring habits:

● Regularly cooking as opposed to eating out
● Eating leftovers
● Bringing your lunch to work regularly
● Budgeting and planning out expenses
● Budgeting for and wisely planning out vacations
● Sticking to your budget
● Buying based upon your needs versus your wants
● Thinking long-term and setting spending goals/limits

Retirement Savings: Another Boring Wealth Building Habit

“If you’re not saving in your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), you’re leaving money on the table.” Retirement savings is another boring wealth building habit. I did not understand my TSP when I first started my federal career. My financial team and others impressed the importance of investing in it early enough where it could be an asset to me in my later years.

There are in fact a group of people who are ‘TSP Millionaires’. These are self-made millionaires who gradually saved into their accounts and by the time they were ready to retire, they were literally millionaires. It wasn’t done in a flashy way as we often see in pop culture and on social media, but instead through methodical savings from every paycheck, budgeting and prioritization. It further involved choosing the right assets/funds within their accounts to take advantage of the Law of Compounding Interest.

As a disclaimer I received assistance on this latter aspect. If you’re able save money in a retirement account of any kind, but aren’t savvy in terms of where to invest the money, I recommend finding someone who has already successfully started and is willing to teach you. In other words you should find a trustworthy expert.

What is Wealth Building?

No. Wealth building doesn’t mean a boring life. It can actually be quite fun dodging the snares of creditors who are always on the hunt for more prey. It just means going against the grain of what we as a society are being encouraged to uncontrollably do which is to spend. When you think about wealth, think about your Net Worth which is the difference between your cash and assets and your liabilities. Debt is a very bad thing for financially minded people. They are careful about using it and seek to control the use of it at all costs. Visit the channel entitled, Savings Minus Debt on YouTube to get an outlook on debt that you’ve probably never heard before.

Proverbs 22:7 in fact says that, “The rich rule over the poor and the borrower is slave to the lender.” I have personally found that to be true as I got myself into some really deep debt trouble at one point in my life. It is a stretch that I will never forget as I never wish to go back there.

“The banks would call me a freeloader. I pay off all my credit card balances at the end of the month but I gladly use the airline miles they give me,” talk show host Bruce Williams said nightly on his broadcasts in the early 2000s, one of my favorites of all time. Bruce talked about the wise use of retail credit cards which involved paying off all of his balances every month but gladly accepting the benefits. Do you pay off all your balances or pay the debt every month?

Can You Afford A $400 Expense?

Another interesting finding as I learned about money was that many Americans can’t afford a $400 emergency expense. I think Rodney Brooks of the Washington Post wrote the initial piece about this phenomenon. If I can find it, I’ll link to it. Similar pieces have been written throughout the years though.

A surprising finding for me though was that there were quite a few members of the prestigious six figure club who couldn’t cover a $400 expense. How is this possible? Well first everyone’s situation is different but there are several explanations for six figure earners who can’t cover a $400 emergency expense. One is the afore-mentioned debt. Debt can cripple your finances even if you are a high earner.

The conclusion most come to is overspending and poor money management. Money management in itself does take work because you have to sit down, proactively do the math and stick to the budget, or spending plan you’ve devised. This is part of the conundrum though. Aren’t you supposed to be able to spend whatever you want to if you’re a high earner? What do you think?

Closing Thoughts

This essay was written with some subtle humor in case you didn’t pick up on it. I first heard about wealth building being boring from an anonymous individual on YouTube I’ll call Ra-El in a livestream discussion. He was another ‘money guy’ who was interested in this topic of wealth building. Saving and investing money versus spending it is a major point of contention between couples today for those who don’t know. I also want to acknowledge that in this summer of 2024, many people in the United States and around the world are grappling with their daily financial survival which is a separate set of considerations than retirement savings. If you’re fortunate to have resources where survival is not a concern, then this topic is something you should consider.

I further want to close this essay by stating that I am not a financial professional. I am a scientist, writer and storyteller. I am also a very effective budgeter. I am not an expert at investing. I rely on individuals who are smarter than me in those areas. I can tell you that investing correctly requires a level of financial budgeting, restraint and prioritization. But is that all there is?

My financial team further shared the basis for the follow up piece to this one with me. It was a piece of advice stating that those who have wisely saved and invested should eventually get to a point where they should enjoy seeing their investments grow. Furthermore, saving for the sake of saving is just suffering. It was a profound lesson for someone disciplined like me. Look out for that essay. Finally thank you to my folks for not raising me in a consumerist mindset and my financial team for your guidance and encouragement. Finally thank you to Jenny for inspiring me to write this essay in addition to my financial team.

The Big Words LLC Newsletter

For the next phase of my writing journey, I’m starting a monthly newsletter for my writing and video content creation company, the Big Words LLC. In it, I plan to share inspirational words, pieces from this blog and my first blog, and select videos from my four YouTube channels. Finally, I will share updates for my book project The Engineers: A Western New York Basketball Story. Your personal information and privacy will be protected. Click this link and register using the sign-up button at the bottom of the announcement. If there is some issue signing up using the link provided, you can also email me at [email protected] . Best Regards.

What Can You Expect To Learn When Working in The Hospitality Industry

Two focuses of my blog are Career Discussions and General Education. The hospitality industry is a cornerstone of most world economies. Even if not formally trained in aspects of the industry, there are various skills you can learn by simply working in it. The following contributed post is entitled, What Can You Expect To Learn When Working in The Hospitality Industry.

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When you’re stuck at a crossroads in your career, and you’re unsure where you want to go in your life there are a number of options at your fingertips. Working in the hospitality industry has always been something that interests you greatly, so why not consider it as an option? You have heard a lot of positive feedback from people you know who work in this line of work and not only can you expect to earn an excellent salary in the hospitality sector, but there are also so many opportunities to learn along the way. Expanding your skills as an individual or business owner is invaluable, so here are just some of the things you can expect to learn when working in the hospitality industry.

Culinary Skills

There is undoubtedly a lot of training that goes into working in the hospitality sector, especially when you choose to go into the culinary side of things. You could look into hospitality training in your local area and hone in on your skills so that you can completely switch up your career paths. Enhancing your culinary skills and receiving the proper training will open up so many doors when it comes to advancing your career.

Communication and People Skills

The hospitality sector is all about working in a client facing environment and navigating how to handle every type of situation under the sun. Even if you simply spent a single month working in hospitality, you would hone in on your people skills and your communication would naturally improve too.

Team Work

Working as a team towards a common goal in order to get the job done is something that everyone in the hospitality sector is used to doing. You have to be a strong team player in order to compete in this industry and there are so many advantages to improving this skill for the long term too.

Organization

The hospitality sector is known for being busy and a constant challenge, so it’s extremely important to be organized and on top of your workload. You may find that working in this industry teaches you how to stay organized in every different situation.

Motivation

If you choose to begin your career in the hospitality industry, you can be sure that you’ll build upon your motivational skills every single time you turn up to work. There may be some days when it takes a tonne of motivation just to get through a shift due to various circumstances but this is a skill that will always be helpful.

As you can see, there are so many incredible opportunities available to you when you choose to work in the hospitality sector. Not only can you expect to meet a whole host of wonderful people, but there are almost certainly so many ways you can progress and improve yourself as a person too. Whether you want to become more organized, improve your teamwork or enhance your culinary skills, there are so many things you can lean when you choose to work in the hospitality sector.

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6 Reasons To Consider Career Planning

Two key focuses of my blog are Career Discussions and General Education. As a professional, your education never stops but instead continues evolving. Depending upon what you’re looking to achieve, planning is critical. The following contributed post is entitled, 6 Reasons To Consider Career Planning.

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Career planning is about preparing yourself for the future job market. This is as vital as having a career itself. You should know who you want to be in the not-too-distant future, say five to ten years. Going to work every day without having a sense of direction could mean you lack a career plan, which can result in regrettable mistakes in the future. A clear career plan is a roadmap for making crucial decisions to excel and achieve financial stability. Here are some benefits of trying considering this process.

1. Self-development

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A career plan fosters self-development. It helps you stay disciplined, focused, and motivated to choose a good career path and stick to it. Developing these traits will pay off in the long run. Track your progress as you grow, and evaluate your career plan every six months to ensure it positions you to achieve your long-term professional goals.

2. Job contentment

These days, finding workers who are satisfied with their career path is hard. Unfortunately, career contentment can impact your physical and mental health and the quality of your work output. Developing a career plan that boosts your morale will help you discover your purpose and stay happy.

3. Retirement plans

Having a career plan doesn’t always mean you have to only look for your dream job. It’s more about facing the realities of the future. Many professionals understand that they can’t work for the rest of their lives. A career plan may help make investments or savings allocations toward a happy retirement. Admittedly, your journey may not start on a smooth journey; there may be setbacks here and there. However, the good news is that you can never go wrong by creating a career plan that ensures your retirement life will be easy.

4. Finding educational and learning opportunities

Your career plan can also help you discover further education and learning opportunities. Once you evaluate your career trajectory and identify things that are not working, you can take proactive steps, such as upgrading your resume. You can also determine where you need more education, which would mean getting more certifications, taking online courses, and seeking funding for higher education. Healthcare scholarship opportunities, for instance, can help remove financial barriers for those interested in the emergency medical services (EMS) field.

5. It gives you full control over your career

Several things in your career may be beyond your control, but career planning isn’t one of them. It gives you complete control over your professional life because only you can tell what’s good or bad for your career. Careers eat so much of your time. According to the HuffPost, people spend up to 13 years working and only 328 days socializing with friends. One big mistake you may not want to make is choosing a career path that gives you zero work-life balance.

6. Boost knowledge of career opportunities

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You will increase your knowledge of various career prospects as you plan your career. Although everyday life has become fast-paced and competitive, a solid career plan can give clarity to help prioritize professional objectives.

In Case You Missed It: A Science Discussion On Peer Review And Pal Review

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“The Pal Review system blurs the lines between what real science is versus tainted science that is impacted and shaped by politics and outside interest groups with specific agendas.”

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Science, Peer Review vs Pal Review

I discuss numerous science- and technology-related topics on my YouTube channel entitled, Big Discussions76 Science and Technology. I took an interest in the climate change discussion about a year and a half ago after being aggressively confronted about it one to two years ago. The YouTube algorithm coincidentally later presented me with a video from the Independent Institute where Dr. Willie Soon was a featured speaker. I have since become a fan of Dr. Soon. Listening to his talks have given me a better understanding of this climate discussion though maybe one that some may not like.

Dr. Soon discussed the concepts of ‘Peer Review’ and ‘Pal Review’ in that initial talk described above. These two concepts are interestingly at the heart of the polarizing and volatile climate discussion. Something Dr. Soon discussed is that science is headed towards more of Pal Review system which is dangerous for everyone. The Pal Review system blurs the lines between what real science is versus tainted science that is impacted and shaped by politics and outside interest groups with specific agendas. The video below is my discussion on Peer Review vs Pal Review.

The article I discussed in the broadcast published on Forbes deals with Climate Gate, an important event in this climate discussion that most of the general public knows nothing about. This is critical because most people make their life decisions such as voting based upon that they know and don’t know. This has long lasting ramifications for everyone.

The Big Words LLC Newsletter

For the next phase of my writing journey, I have started a monthly newsletter for my writing and video content creation company, the Big Words LLC. In it, I plan to share inspirational words, pieces from this blog and my first blog, and select videos from my four YouTube channels. Finally, I will share updates for my book project The Engineers: A Western New York Basketball Story. Your personal information and privacy will be protected. Click this link and register using the sign-up button at the bottom of the announcement. If there is some issue signing up using the link provided, you can also email me at [email protected] . Best Regards.

How Games And Apps Can Turbocharge Your Education

Two focuses of my blog are General Education and Technology. While many people think that technology can waste a lot of time, it can also provide tremendous value, particularly in the realm of education. The following contributed post is entitled, How Games And Apps Can Turbocharge Your Education.

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We all have to make sure that we are learning something new each day. If we don’t quite manage that, then it’s absolutely fine, but we should strive to do so anyway. If we sit still for too long, we will only go backward in terms of our intellect. The brain needs to be exercised all of the time and learning new things makes us happier. The good thing is that there are plenty of ways we can educate ourselves. In this post, we are going to be talking about digital systems and games – and how they can play a huge part.

The entire planet has more than embraced the digital world in 2023, and it’s a great way of educating young people and adults alike. You can learn so much using certain pieces of software and applications. Games can even educate you along the way. Here are just a few ways games can help this out:

The Way You Engage With The Environment

Video games and other kinds of digital applications have the unique ability to create engaging environments. When you dive into a particular game, you are immersing yourself in a world of challenges and things to discover. Some traditional learning methods can be tedious, but this world that is created for you can provide you with lots of different pieces of stimulation. You stay motivated throughout and you have lots of reasons to succeed. It might be a case of using lateral thinking or simply solving intricate puzzles – but you ultimately learn things in an exciting way.

Cognitive Skills Get A Boost

Games have the ability to boost everyone’s cognitive skills. It’s not just a case of having fun and completing certain tasks in order to win, you have to do things that require brainpower along the way. Your problem-solving skills and decision-making skills come into question as well as very basic abilities. You gain the ability to remember certain things and recall them when necessary. These can then be transferred to other areas of life that can serve you in the future.

Lots Of Different Interactive Scenarios

You can be thrown into all kinds of different interactive learning scenarios whenever you play games. There are even games that have the express purpose of teaching you historical facts or important tidbits. You may even wish to play a game in which you create a nation and learn about politics in a simulated political world. These kind of immersive approaches allow you to grasp all kinds of concepts.

Progressive Learning

As time moves on throughout the game, you progress more and more and things become more difficult. You have to use your brain more and more frequently. This might be a case of learning new things but it also might be a case of applying your cognitive skills more significantly. This can then mirror real-life learning experiences and allow you to, again, transfer these skills to more important areas of your life.

Is College Necessary for Everybody?

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“Going to college is a highly personal decision no one can make for you. While your teachers and parents might want you to find a good school, it’s not necessary for success. Instead, consider the type of career you want and whether pursuing higher education is worth it.”

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A key focus of my blog is General Education. College is often thought to be the magic bullet for success for everyone, but is this the case for everyone in every arena? The following guest post looks this further and is entitled, Is College Necessary for Everybody?

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When kids are in school, their parents and teachers tell them to work hard to get into college and get a good job. As a result, many people attend college after high school, while others go to college later in life to increase their earning potential. But is college necessary for everyone? You might not want to attend college if you don’t enjoy school. Meanwhile, you might not be able to afford college even if you love school. Luckily, you don’t have to go to college to be successful, but it can help. Whether you have a bachelor’s degree or GED, anyone can succeed and find a career they love.

Does College Predict Success?

Many people thank their college education for their ability to get a high-paying job that allows them to pay for basic living expenses. In addition, some degrees have a high return on investment. For example, nurses with master’s degrees typically earn more than those with associate’s degrees, making it well worth investing in a lengthier college program. However, many jobs don’t pay enough to make a college degree worth the expense, and there are several top-earning career fields you can enter without a degree.

Before you can determine whether college is crucial to your future career success, you should consider the type of career you want. For example, if you love pets and want to be a vet, you’ll need a degree. Meanwhile, if you prefer building things with your hands, you don’t need a woodworking degree to become a successful carpenter who owns their own business.

In general, going to college provides experiences to help you make connections you can use to further your career. However, a specialized degree isn’t necessary for most positions. For example, anyone can become a digital marketer with the right skill set, especially if they’re lucky enough to find job opportunities that offer training.

The Case Against College Degrees

A college degree is required for some careers, but not all. Therefore, the most important step is determining which type of career you want and the requirements for entering the job market. First, you should look at the general career path to determine if a degree might be required down the line. For example, you may be able to find an entry-level job where a degree isn’t necessary, but if you want to become a manager, you might need one.

Of course, anyone can be successful with or without a college degree. Therefore, you must determine the skills necessary for your chosen career path and find ways to excel in them.

The Case For College Degrees

While some people can become successful without a degree, attending college can improve your chances of success. College graduates typically earn more than those with a high school diploma, and education is increasingly important to employers. Knowing you graduated college can show employers that you’re goal-oriented even if you don’t have a relevant degree. Even if the type of field you studied doesn’t matter to an employer, they may still look for candidates with bachelor’s degrees.

In addition to increased earning potential, many people believe college is essential for the experience alone. For most people, college is the best time of their lives because they’re finally free to make their own decisions independently. Furthermore, many people learn how to become adults, meet new friends, harness a network for professional opportunities, and gain valuable work experience while studying at a university. In addition to the college experience itself, you can get more information about your chosen field, including certificates and internship opportunities you can’t get anywhere else.

If you should go to college depends on several factors, including the industry you’re entering and your definition of success.

Industry

Some industries require specialized degrees, while others don’t. For example, to become a psychologist, you’ll need a degree in psychology. Meanwhile, other careers prioritize relevant skills, such as technology and business. Meanwhile, those looking to enter creative fields may not need a degree; the hiring managers will look for relevant experience and a good portfolio.

Your Definition of Success

How you define success will determine whether college is necessary for you. For example, maybe you’re someone who defines success based on your happiness at work. Individuals doing what they love may earn less, but their overall happiness makes their jobs easier and more enjoyable. Meanwhile, you might define success as starting your own business without a degree or getting a specialized nursing degree to work with a particular type of patient. Whatever the case, you must know what success looks and feels like for you to determine whether you need a degree.

Other Options

College isn’t necessary for everyone, and there are other educational opportunities to help you advance your career.

Trade Schools

Trade schools can help you gain valuable experience in a particular field, such as automotive, plumbing, electrical, or aviation. You can also find medical trade schools offering programs for nursing, billing, and allied health jobs. Meanwhile, other options include culinary schools, tech schools, and beauty schools, depending on your interests.

Certifications

If you’ve already been in the workforce, you might not have the time to return to college. Certifications can be used in place of college degrees, especially if you already have relevant experience in a particular field. For example, you can get certifications in project management, digital marketing, website development and design, and teaching.

Experience

Sometimes real-life experience is more important to employers than a fancy degree. For example, if you can find a good job, you might be able to work your way up in a company and learn the skills you need to get a management position.

Should You Go To College?

Going to college is a highly personal decision no one can make for you. While your teachers and parents might want you to find a good school, it’s not necessary for success. Instead, consider the type of career you want and whether pursuing higher education is worth it.

Megan Isola

Megan Isola holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and a minor in Business Marketing from Cal State University Chico. She enjoys going to concerts, trying new restaurants, and hanging out with friends.

The University of Michigan Department of Pharmacology hosts 2023 Pharmacology in Color Symposium

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“Once you are maxed out, you need to learn something new!”

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On June 9, 2023, the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Michigan hosted its Pharmacology in Color Symposium. Alumni were invited back to the department to share their career paths and experiences for the first time in person since the Covid-19 Pandemic. On Thursday June 8 there was a dinner gathering for alumni, current students and faculty. On the morning of Friday June 9, students gave seminars on their research and alumni gave talks on their educational paths and current careers throughout the rest of the day. In the afternoon there were breakout sessions where students asked direct questions of alumni before the address by the keynote speaker (described below). Finally, there was a happy hour and a second dinner in the evening.

The students that presented their research included:

● Anthony Garcia, Osawa Lab, “Pharmacological Modulation of Hsp70 Selectively Removes Misfolded nNOS”
● Juan Valentine-Goyco, Auchus Lab, “Biochemical Characterization and Pharmacological Inhibition of Aldosterone Synthase”
● Chanté Liu, M.S., Satin Lab, “Understanding the Mechanisms of Pulsatile Basal Insulin Secretion”
● Loyda Morales-Rodriguez, Puthenveedu Lab, “Location-Biased Activation of the Proton-Sensor GPR65 is Uncoupled from Receptor Trafficking”

The alumni invited back to the department to speak included:

● Colleen Carpenter, Ph.D., Assistant Professor in Biology, University of Richmond (Keynote Speaker)
● Nnamdi Edokobi, Ph.D., Patent Agent, Choate, Hall & Stewart
● Mohamad Shebley, Ph.D., Head of Clinical Pharmacology Neuroscience, AbbVie
● Rashonda Flint, Ph.D., Office of the Dean, School of Medicine and Advocate Health, Wake Forest University
● Diamond Thomas, M.S., Clinical Research Coordinator, University of Michigan
● Anwar Dunbar, Ph.D., Pharmacologist, Health Effects Division, Office of Pesticide Programs, United States Environmental Protection Agency
● Tigwa Davis, Ph.D., Director, Health Economics and Outcomes, Inovalon

Opening remarks on June 9 were given by Dr. Lori Isom, Chair of the Department of Pharmacology and Dr. Steve Kunkel, the Executive Dean for Research and the Chief Scientific Officer of the Michigan Medical School. Closing remarks were given by Dr. Alan Smrcka of the Department of Pharmacology who played a key role in organizing the symposium. The sessions were moderated by alumnus Dr. Chiamaka Ukachukwu and student Hongyu Su.

“Once you are maxed out, you need to learn something new,” said Dr. Mohammed Shebley of AbbVie, a native of Southeastern Michigan. As with all the speakers, Dr. Shebley discussed his journey to and through the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Michigan. He further discussed his career at AbbVie and keys for success for working in the company. His quote involved the importance of professionals continuing to evolve and figuring out new career directions, particularly when levels of personal and professional comfort are achieved. Dr. Shebley worked under Dr. Paul Hollenberg for his doctoral studies at the University of Michigan where he worked on projects involving Cyrochrome-P450s.

“I was blown away by everything, the commitment to students – all of it,” said Dr. Colleen Carpenter discussing her arrival at the Department of Pharmacology. Dr. Carpenter worked under the tutelage of Dr. Margaret Gnegy in the areas of Amphetamines and Dopamine signaling. Dr. Carpenter discussed her introduction to science in her native Jamaica, her educational path before arriving at the University of Michigan and her research afterwards. She is now an assistant professor at the University of Richmond where she uses Zebrafish and technologies like CRISPR to screen new drugs.

The alumni in attendance worked in multiple sectors including academia, industry, government, and patent law. One of the key themes that emerged in all their talks was that no career path was a straight line. That is all experienced some form of adversity or made decisions to explore other parts of the Pharmacology world and beyond. The students in the audience were further encouraged to enjoy and take advantage of the expertise and training available to them. Dr. Anwar Dunbar who worked under Dr. Yoichi Osawa for his doctoral training, noted in his talk that science is a culture, a craft, and a way of being which is unique and not well understood by other segments of society. Dr. Dunbar’s thesis project involved the inactivation and cellular degradation of Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase.

The department endeavors to provide the best science training for its students. While academia is the classic career path following Pharmacology doctoral training, it attempts to expose them to all the career options. To learn more about the University of Michigan Department of Pharmacology, its stellar faculty, students and research, visit the department online at: https://medicine.umich.edu/dept/pharmacology .

Essays on the Science of Drugs and More

Pharmacology is the science of drugs, specifically how they modulate biological processes to treat disease and sickness. If you want to learn more about this exciting science, there is an essay discussing Pharmacology and its many aspects right here on this platform. There are similar essays on ADME/Drug Metabolism, Toxicology and Inhalation Toxicology. There are also essays describing the world of Basic Research, and the Transferable Skills learned from science training. Finally, there is a personal story regarding the challenges surrounding doctoral training as a minority.

The Big Words LLC Newsletter

Thank you for reading this piece on the Pharmacology in Color Symposium hosted by the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Michigan. There are several other science-related essays here on my blog with more on the way. As a writer, I have started a monthly newsletter for my writing and video content creation company, The Big Words LLC. In it, I plan to share inspirational words, pieces from my writer’s blog and this blog, and select videos from my four YouTube channels. One of those channels is a science and technology channel. It is entitled, Big Discussions76 Science and Technology. Finally, I will share updates for my book project entitled, The Engineers: A Western New York Basketball Story. Click this link and register using the sign-up button at the bottom of the announcement. If there is an issue with the sign-up form, you can email me at [email protected]. Best regards.

Career Planning and Advancement: Tips and Insights for Professional Growth

Two focuses of my blog are Career Discussions and General Education. A Career is more than something you just show up and make money from. It is about forming a life trajectory and fulfilling a purpose in a given field. The following guest post is entitled, Career Planning and Advancement: Tips and Insights for Professional Growth.

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• Career growth requires planning, skills, and work-life balance. Technology assists remote work, productivity, communication, and learning in the workplace.
• Take charge of your career by setting SMART goals, seeking feedback, and building a network.
• Balance career goals and personal life by setting priorities, time management strategies, and learning to say no.
• Remote work allows for flexible schedules and work-life balance. Utilize technological tools to increase productivity in the workplace.
• Career planning involves assessing strengths and skills, creating plans, and pursuing challenging assignments through conferences and workshops.

Having a successful career involves more than just working hard and excelling in your job. It requires careful planning and intentional steps toward professional growth. A career is essential, and achieving professional growth is crucial for personal and financial fulfillment.

Your career offers a sense of purpose, structure, and development, making them a critical factor in defining who you are. Thus, every professional should invest time and effort in career planning, advancement, and management, to achieve goals and live up to their potential.

This post will share tips and insights on developing your career, maintaining a work-life balance, and exploring new opportunities. These insights will be invaluable whether you are just starting your career or looking to advance to the next level.

Role of Technology in Career Advancement

The use of technology in the workplace has made it easier for people to advance their careers. Here are some ways technology is improving career advancement opportunities.

Enabling Remote Work

Thanks to advancements in technology, remote work is becoming increasingly popular. This means you can work from anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who cannot work from a traditional office, such as those with disabilities or those who live in remote areas.

Remote work also offers more flexibility, allowing you to schedule and work at your own pace. This can lead to a better work-life balance, as you have more control over your time and can prioritize your personal life.

Improving Productivity

Technology tools can help you stay organized and increase productivity in many ways. For example, project management software can help you keep track of deadlines, assign tasks to team members, and monitor progress.

Time-tracking apps can help you manage your time more effectively and identify areas where you may be spending too much time. Automation tools can help you streamline repetitive tasks, reduce errors, and save time for more important tasks. By using these tools, you can work more efficiently and accomplish more in less time.

Enhancing Communication

Communication is key in any workplace, and technology can help facilitate clear and efficient communication. An omnichannel communication platform allows messages to be delivered across multiple channels, such as email, chat, and video conferencing.

This helps ensure that everyone is on the same page and eliminates misunderstandings. It also encourages collaboration, as team members can easily communicate and share ideas. By improving communication, you can increase productivity and achieve better results.

Providing Learning and Development Opportunities

Technology has revolutionized how people learn, and there are countless opportunities to develop new skills and stay up-to-date with industry trends. Online courses, webinars, and other learning resources are easily accessible and can be completed at your own pace.

Learning new skills can open up new career opportunities and increase your value in the job market. It also helps you stay engaged and motivated in your current role as you grow and develop professionally.

Taking Charge of Your Career

To advance your career, taking charge of your personal growth is essential. Here are some tips to help you:

Set SMART Goals

Setting SMART goals-specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound-enables you to focus your efforts and achieve success. This helps you stay motivated and track progress.

Seek Feedback

Getting feedback from colleagues, managers, and mentors is critical to your professional growth. Feedback helps you identify areas for improvement, overcome blind spots, and enhance your skills.

Build a Network

Networking is vital to advancing your career. Attend industry conferences, join professional organizations, and connect with colleagues on social media. Your network can offer support, guidance, and mentorship as you navigate your professional journey.

Job Path and Lifestyle Choices

Career Planning and Advancement

To achieve professional growth, you must have a career plan.

• Assess your strengths, goals, and preferred work style.
• Seek feedback from colleagues, mentors, or career advisors to identify areas for improvement. Once you clearly understand your skills, create a plan to develop them further.
• Consider taking courses, attending conferences or workshops, and seeking challenging assignments.

Overcoming Career Obstacles

Obstacles are inevitable in any career, but how you approach them makes a difference.

• Stay positive and maintain a growth mindset.
• Look at challenges as opportunities to learn and develop.
• Seek support from colleagues, mentors, or coaches, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
• Take time to reflect on your experiences and learn from them.

Balancing Career Goals and Personal Life

Balancing work and personal life is difficult, but it’s essential for your well-being and overall success.

• Start by setting priorities and time management strategies.
• Create a schedule that allows you to pursue your career goals while caring for your personal life.
• Learn to say no and focus on what’s important.
• Take time to disconnect and recharge your batteries. This will help you maintain focus and prevent burnout.

Self-Care and Mental Health

It’s essential to prioritize self-care to maintain good mental health, particularly when pursuing professional growth.

• Learn to recognize the signs of burnout and seek support when necessary.
• Take care of your physical and mental health by engaging in activities that bring joy, exercising regularly, and practicing mindfulness.
• Connect with your family, friends, healthcare professionals, or self-help resources.

Achieving professional growth requires careful planning and intentional steps. By setting SMART goals, seeking feedback from colleagues and mentors, building a solid network, taking courses to develop skills, overcoming career obstacles with positivity and support, and maintaining work-life balance through effective time management strategies.

Moreover, by prioritizing self-care for mental health well-being and exploring new opportunities in the industry, you can make significant progress on your path toward success. Investing in yourself is the key to unlocking your full potential and achieving long-term stability in your career.