CNA vs PCT

CNA Versus PCT

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Both certified nursing assistants (CNAs) and patient care technicians (PCTs) are vital members of health care teams. They provide basic care to patients, monitor patient conditions and report changes to nurses. Although both titles are often used interchangeably, it’s important to recognize these professions aren’t the same. In general, certified nursing assistants are responsible for helping patients perform everyday tasks, while patient care technicians may have more specialized duties. If you’re thinking about pursuing either of these roles, it’s important to know their responsibilities and educational requirements differ so you can make an informed decision. A CNA is a certified nurse assistant who provides basic care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical facilities. CNAs help patients with bathing, dressing, and personal hygiene. Other responsibilities typically include feeding and bathing patients as well as monitoring patient vitals. They may also provide emotional support to patients and their families and record patient symptoms and progress. A PCT is a patient care technician who provides basic care to patients in a hospital setting. PCTs may work with patients who are recovering from surgery, those who are receiving treatment for a serious illness or those who are receiving palliative care. PCTs may also work with patients who are preparing to be discharged from the hospital. Typical duties of a PCT include taking vital signs, recording patient information and preparing and administering medication. Although there’s some overlap between the two professions, there’s also a great deal of differences between a CNA and a PCT in terms of job duties and levels of patient care responsibility. CNAs typically have more patient contact than PCTs and may also be responsible for more clinical tasks such as taking vital signs and recording patient information. PCTs typically work more with medical equipment and may also be trained to perform more complex tasks like drawing blood, administering EKGs or operating dialysis equipment. The median annual salary for a CNA is , but salaries can vary greatly depending on the state or region in which they work. CNAs in Missouri earn a median salary of $42,564. The job outlook for CNAs is also positive. projects that the number of positions for CNAs will grow by five percent between 2021 and 2031, meaning there will be plenty of opportunities for CNAs in the years to come. The average salary for a Patient Care Technician is . However, salaries can vary depending on the level of experience and education you have. The median salary of a Missouri-based PCT is $50,360. The job outlook for Patient Care Technicians is good, with employment expected to grow by 18 percent over the next ten years. This is much faster than the average for all occupations. Whether you’re inclined to become a CNA or a PCT, earning a from the fully accredited St. Louis College of Health Careers will equip you with the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to work in both roles. Candidates interested in becoming a licensed practical nurse are encouraged to apply for our four semester . To learn more about how SLCHC can help you pursue , call 866-529-2070.

respiratory system

Foods that Can Weaken the Respiratory System

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The human respiratory system includes the nose, throat, lungs and diaphragm. The main functions of the respiratory system are to transport air in the lungs to oxygenate blood and expelling carbon dioxide. It also helps protect the body against harmful particles that are inhaled. There are many diseases that can affect the respiratory system, including infections such as the common cold, flu, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. People prone to infections or those with lung disease or cancer should be especially mindful of their diet as eating certain foods can have negative effects on lung function and the respiratory system. Conversely, there are several foods that can have a positive impact on respiratory health. Including these foods in your diet can help keep respiratory disease symptoms at bay and help you live a healthy life. Did you know there’s an entire profession within the healthcare field dedicated to treating patients who have difficulty breathing? Respiratory Therapy is a medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the respiratory system. This includes the lungs, airways and chest wall. Respiratory therapists work with patients of all ages who have a variety of conditions, including asthma, cystic fibrosis and pneumonia. They may be responsible for the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of patients with breathing disorders. Respiratory therapists may also be responsible for educating patients and their families on how to manage their conditions. If you’ve been exploring the possibility of a stable and rewarding healthcare career without spending a lot of time and money pursuing medical school, becoming a respiratory therapist may be a great fit for you. The job outlook for respiratory therapists is good, with projecting that the number of respiratory therapist jobs will grow by 14 percent from 2021 to 2031. The median salary for respiratory therapists is $61,830. If you’re interested in helping people breathe easier, consider a career as a respiratory therapist. RTs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities and home health care. To become a respiratory therapist, you’ll need at least an . At SLCHC, our accredited RT program equips you with a strong academic background and hands-on experience to become a competent and highly sought-after respiratory therapist. To learn more, call 866-529-2070 or .

coping with holiday stress

Coping with Holiday Stresses as a College Student

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The holidays can be a stressful time for anyone, but for college students, it can be especially difficult to cope with the added pressures of finals, family gatherings and financial concerns. Here are a few tips to help you cope with the stress and make the most of this special time. The holidays can be a busy time, so make a plan for how you will manage your time. If you everyday schedule is filled to the brim with schoolwork, household chores and a full-time job, finding time to attend Christmas parties and family get-togethers may be a challenge. Plan ahead, such as setting specific dates for Christmas shopping, attending parties or decorating your home. Make a list of things you need to do to help yourself stay organized and avoid feeling overwhelmed. The holiday season is a time for joy, family and friends. However, it can also be a time of stress and anxiety. It’s important to set realistic expectations for yourself and others during this time. Remember that you don’t have to do everything and that it is ok to say no. Take some time for yourself and enjoy the simple things. Be patient with others and remember that they may be going through their own stress. Most importantly, enjoy the time you spend with the people you care about. The end of the year can be a very expensive time with all the gifts, parties and travel. One way to avoid overspending is to set a budget and stick to it. Decide how much you can afford to spend on gifts, food and other expenses and then stick to that amount. Another way to save money is to shop for gifts online or at discount stores. If you’re crafty, you can also make your own gifts. Whatever you do, don’t go into debt trying to have the perfect holiday. The holidays should be filled with good cheer. It’s also a time when old conflicts and grudges can resurface when seeing people you haven’t been around in a while. It’s important to be aware of how your words and actions might be interpreted and to avoid potential conflicts. If someone says or does something that bothers you, try to address the issue in a calm and respectful way. If things get too heated, it’s always best to walk away and take a break. Being mindful and keeping the peace can allow you to enjoy the holiday season to the fullest. Some people find that taking a break from technology helps them focus on what’s important and allows them to truly relax and enjoy the holiday season. For many people, this includes taking a break from technology. This can mean unplugging from devices such as cell phones, laptops and televisions, and spending time enjoying activities such as talking, playing games and spending time outdoors. It’s not uncommon for the holiday season to be a difficult time for many people. It can be especially hard to cope if you’re feeling lonely or struggling with mental health issues. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s important to reach out for support. There are many people who can help you through this time, including friends, family and mental health professionals. You can also find support through online communities or support groups. Whatever you do, don’t try to cope with these feelings on your own or with potentially unhealthy outlets. At the St. Louis College of Health Careers, we are committed to equipping students with the tools they need to be successful. If you find yourself overwhelmed with schoolwork or need advice on how to build your career, our devoted staff and faculty members are here to mentor you throughout your academic journey. To receive , reach out to a mentor via the student portal or speak directly to your academic advisor.

what is nurse burnout?

Nurse Burnout

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  and long hours, burnout is a risk many nurses will face throughout their health career. According to the World Health Organization, burnout is an official . As an occupational phenomenon, the term “burnout” should only be used within the context of a person’s job or occupation — not as an illness or health condition. While it is not considered to be an ailment or disease, burnout can be diagnosed by a doctor. Stress influences our ability to make decisions. In a medical setting, decision-making is critical. When a nurse is no longer enjoying their job due to burnout, their behavior and attitude can impact their ability to provide optimal patient care. A nurse’s bedside manner is important to the patient’s health and level of care. Poor bedside manner is often one of the first signs that a nurse is suffering from burnout. Nurses who are burnt out may feel a lack of empathy and compassion toward their patients and become more cynical and insensitive. This can leave a patient feeling alone and unimportant and deter them from seeking medical care in the future. Initiating burnout prevention is an important task for hospitals and their staff, including the nurse managers and leaders. While a nurse should do what they can to prevent themselves from experiencing burnout, it is equally important for their workplace to be proactive in monitoring the wellness of nursing staff and to implement preventive measures. Whether you have already spent time working in the medical field or are looking to pursue a new health career, you can earn your diploma from the St. Louis College of Health Careers. We offer including Practical Nursing, Patient Care Technician, Medical Assistant, Respiratory Therapy and more. Learn from experienced practitioners and leaders in the medical community who will provide you with hands-on training and mentorship. Apply for our by calling 866-529-2070.

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First Year of Nursing Classes

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Entering your first year of college is equal parts exciting and intimidating. It’s not uncommon to be nervous about the transition regardless of how prepared you might be. In the days leading up to the beginning of your first semester, do your best to relax and brush up on helpful tips and tricks for succeeding in your first year of classes. Change can be overwhelming — add an academic workload to the mix and it can start to feel unmanageable. The best thing you can do when you first start college is to pace yourself. Don’t try to take on too much all at once. Give yourself time to adapt to your class schedule, the curriculum and assignments. You don’t need to be excellent at everything right away. Allow yourself the room to make mistakes and learn from them — that’s what college is all about. Meeting academic deadlines is crucial to your success. A lot of important dates will begin to pile up all at once and it can be easy to unintentionally miss due dates or forget to complete assignments. Managing a calendar is an absolute must when starting college. Using an online app or a physical planner can help you keep track of important dates. Everyone learns and absorbs information differently (A.K.A. learning styles), which means there are many ways to participate in class or study for an exam. Even if you think you know your learning style, don’t be afraid to explore new study techniques (i.e., flashcards, drawing, reading aloud, seeing a tutor or tutoring another student). You might even discover that you have more than one learning style — which is common for some students. It’s important to understand how to take advantage of each learning style and find ways to improve your study methods. While college could appear cutthroat, your classmates really aren’t your competition. Instead, they are your colleagues who are pursuing their education alongside you. Be open to chatting with the person sitting next to you or schedule time to meet with your peers outside of the classroom. It can be helpful to form study groups before a big exam or ask a classmate for feedback on a paper. The more you allow others into your learning journey, the better you’ll feel about the process. Extracurricular activities are also a great way to get involved on campus because they can introduce you to new and valuable perspectives and experiences. Most students who participate in sports or clubs or attend optional lectures or presentations find their relationships with their peers and professors are better for it. You are in school to learn material you have no prior knowledge of. Naturally, you will likely have questions for your professors or instructors in the middle of a lecture or lab. Your instructors expect you to have questions, so it will come as no shock to them when you don’t understand something. Don’t be intimidated by a classroom or fellow students and always ask your questions. Someone else likely has the same question but are too intimidated to speak up, or you may prompt the instructor to provide elaboration or clarification that will benefit the entire class. If you don’t feel comfortable asking questions in a classroom, you can reach out to your professor via email or schedule a meeting during their office hours. Aside from the goal to graduate college with a diploma, you should also think about short-term and long-term goals over the course of your academic career. Whether that’s making all As and graduating with honors or pushing yourself to enroll in a challenging course, your goals are often important steppingstones toward your career. College is what you make of it, so work hard, be brave and go for it. St. Louis College of Health Careers is committed to providing students with an understanding of our rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. Graduates leave our programs with a and can swiftly apply their skills in the field. We offer numerous associate, bachelor, master and diploma programs that qualify to take certification exams and enter health careers ranging from practical nursing to healthcare administration. Learn more about our by calling 866-529-2070.

how to fix the nursing shortage

How Can We Fix the Nursing Shortage

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The high demand for nurses in the United States has plagued the healthcare industry for years. Today, the number of registered nurses in America has reached a staggeringly low number for many reasons, including the COVID-19 pandemic. With the aging baby boomer generation and large population of chronically ill and high-risk patients, the current supply of nurses is insufficient to keep up with growing healthcare needs. Our nation’s provide quality care in nearly every healthcare setting, including hospitals, doctor’s offices, behavioral health centers, specialized medical facilities and other institutions. The ongoing nursing shortage and staffing gaps are inevitably affecting patient care and safety as well as patient outcomes. The situation will only continue to get worse if steps are not taken to relieve the nursing workforce by recruiting newly qualified nurses and encouraging the expansion of training programs. RNs play a very important role in evolving and improving our country’s healthcare system, yet their ability to implement or experiment with new healthcare methods is limited by chronically stretched resources. It’s no secret that all aspiring nurses require an to pursue a health career. The problem is that while the country is suffering a nursing shortage, the education system is also suffering from a nursing faculty shortage. This directly impacts the number of qualified students a nursing program can accept — limiting the number of nursing graduates taking certification exams and entering the field. According to the from baccalaureate and graduate nursing programs in 2021. While faculty shortages are the primary cause, the lack of classroom space, clinical sites and preceptors are also contributing factors. In October 2022, the AACN released a that identified a total of 2,166 full-time faculty vacancies across 909 nursing schools nationwide. Pinpointing just one fix that could make all the difference is nearly impossible given the variety of factors at play, but there are changes federal policymakers and organizations could make that might help encourage greater participation in the nursing workforce and training institutions like St. Louis College of Health Careers. Resolving the nursing shortage in America is a lofty goal that won’t happen overnight, but you can be a part of the solution. If you are passionate about people and interested in a career in the healthcare industry, our accredited program may be for you. We combine hands-on practice with rigorous academics to equip students with the tools they need to pass certification exams and enter the nursing workforce. Graduates of St. Louis College of Heath Careers move on to find work at hospitals, residential care facilities, doctor’s offices, nursing homes, clinics and more. Learn more about our LPN program or explore other by calling 866-529-2070.

healthy college eating habits

Healthy Food Habits for College Students

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Have you recently decided to enroll in college? The decision to continue your education can be equal parts exciting and terrifying, especially if you’re working full-time and have a family to support. Many people attending college find themselves perpetually exhausted from their busy schedules and lack of sleep. Those who manage to make the best of their time in college often do so in part because they maintain good habits, like staying organized and eating a healthy diet. While most people understand the importance of healthy eating, juggling schoolwork with other daily responsibilities can cause you to put a thoughtful approach to nutrition on the back burner. The constant lack of time paired with limited resources makes it easy for college students to eat food that is fast and requires minimal effort to make (or purchase from a drive thru window). A surprising number of students don’t realize there is a cause-and-effect relationship between healthy eating and academic performance. While eating healthy may not seem like a priority, it can give you the necessary energy needed to succeed during this crucial (and inordinately stressful) time in your life. Surviving on the high sodium and minimal nutritional value of TV dinners and fast food may hinder your ability to focus on schoolwork and cope with the stress of everyday life. If you’re like most people, you probably know that eating healthy is necessary for maintaining a healthy weight. Unless you exercise vigorously, eating fast food and sugar constantly can cause you to gain extra pounds and feel sluggish during the day. A nutrient-dense diet may also improve your overall cognitive function, which is vital during college. In other words, eating healthful food enhances your ability to think, learn, remember, problem solve and pay attention. The good news is you don’t have to spend a lot of money or countless hours in the kitchen to fuel your brain with healthful foods. There are several simple strategies you can implement to build healthy eating habits, even while attending college. Your meals should be a balance of protein (lean meat, fish, cottage cheese, eggs), complex carbs (whole wheat pasta, rice, sweet potatoes and other vegetables) and healthy fats (olive oil, avocado, peanut butter). A balanced diet can be a great source of energy and keep you from reaching for unhealthy snacks in between meals. If you’ve chosen to eliminate certain food groups from your diet, such as meat or dairy, it’s important to take supplements, like vitamins and minerals, to avoid nutritional deficiencies. These deficiencies may not only slow you down mentally but also weaken your immune system and ultimately lead to health problems. Most adults who eat a diverse diet of whole foods likely do not need supplements, but if you are cutting out entire food groups or you have certain risk factors (over the age of 50, are pregnant, or have certain medical conditions that affect digestion or your body’s ability to absorb nutrients) supplements may be appropriate. Make sure to talk with your doctor before beginning to take vitamin or mineral supplements. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water or even more if you exercise or have a physically demanding job–like nursing. Not drinking enough fluids can give you a headache and lead to dehydration. Consuming sugary foods and beverages makes your energy fluctuate. You may feel good at first, but once the “high” subsides, you could find yourself feeling sluggish and irritable. If you have a sweet tooth, try to replace candy bars and soda with fruit, and limit your daily sugar intake to no more than 25 grams. Snacking in between meals is not an entirely bad idea, as long as you indulge in healthful and nutritious foods. Nutritious snacks, like fresh fruit, string cheese, nuts and seeds, can boost your energy and focus and tide you over until your next meal. Start your day right by eating something nutritious, like eggs with whole wheat toast or oatmeal with fresh fruit and peanut butter. Eating a solid breakfast will boost your brainpower and keep you alert and productive until your next meal. At the accessible to students from all walks of life by offering flexible scheduling options, online courses and financial aid resources. To learn more, call 866-529-2070 or .

counting money for finances

Financial Literacy– What Is It and How Can I Build It While in College?

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Financial literacy refers to learning and implementing a variety of financial skills that empower you to make responsible decisions with your money. At the core of financial literacy is an appreciation for the value of your hard-earned dollars and an understanding of the risk factors that can lead to the loss of the money you earn. Being financially literate allows people to use money as a tool for creating a better future for themselves and their family while resisting the urge for instant gratification. It also entails an understanding of the consequences of mismanaging money. If you’re like most college enrollees, you’re probably looking to go back to school to pursue a career that will both interests you and allow you to earn more money. While earning a college degree can open doors to many interesting and financially rewarding job opportunities, not knowing how to manage your finances can make your academic efforts futile or even counterproductive. When people don’t know how to manage their money, they typically end up wasting a lot of it on things they don’t need while neglecting to save for emergency expenses, college or retirement. Spending money on superfluous things you enjoy isn’t inherently bad. What gets people into trouble is usually financing nonessential purchases with credit and failing to pay them off, after which they can become buried in interest. Estimates suggest more than of Americans live paycheck to paycheck and have no money left over to save. Many people who live without a financial safety net are doing the best they can with the income they’re able to earn, but there’s also a large contingent of those who have made avoidable mistakes due to financial illiteracy. If you’re thinking about going to college or have already enrolled in a of your choice, congratulations! You have made the first step toward creating a better future for you and your loved ones. At this point it may be in your best interest to take stock of your financial situation so you have a clear plan on how to support yourself and your family while attending college. The financial skills you develop and hone during your academic journey, paired with your hard-earned degree, will help you achieve a secure and financially balanced future. As a college student, you will likely be responsible for paying for your education. Tuition can feel discouraging, which is why it’s useful to remind yourself that tuition is a financial investment, not a money-gobbling black hole. A clear-headed acknowledgement and understanding of the high cost of school is good in the sense that students who truly appreciate the gravity of this financial commitment are more likely to devote themselves to study. There are numerous institutions, companies and private parties donating money for education. Both grants and scholarships are considered educational gifts. The difference between the two is that grants are given based on financial need, while scholarships are usually awarded based on academic, athletic and artistic achievements. Many grants and scholarships have strict deadlines and are awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis to applicants who meet the necessary requirements. Get in touch with your school’s to learn more about grant and scholarship offerings. Students who serve or have served in the military and their dependents are usually eligible for various as well as on-the-job training. Whether you’re a service member, veteran, military spouse or the child of a servicemember, you may have access to generous tuition assistance that can help pay for your education. Some employers offer employee tuition reimbursement, which means they help pay for some or all of your tuition costs. In many cases employees are reimbursed after they have paid for classes. There are usually certain stipulations. Your employer may only reimburse you if you’re pursuing a degree related to their industry. You might also be required to work for the company for a specific number of years after you graduate. Failure to do so may result in you needing to pay your employer back. While some companies do offer tuition reimbursement for altruistic reasons, there are also real financial benefits for them as well. For example, they can deduct a significant amount from their taxes for each employee they reimburse for continuing education. If you’re looking to pursue a career in a particular field, such as healthcare or education, consider working for a that will help you cover college education costs related to your area of study. Improving your financial literacy isn’t as hard as you might assume. It doesn’t require you take a lot of accounting or finance classes. There are countless free resources online that can help you make better financial decisions. At the St. Louis College of Health Careers in Missouri, we help students from all walks of life pursue a rewarding career in ever-growing healthcare fields. When you choose to study at SLCHC, not only are you getting an exceptional healthcare education, but we’ll also assist you with various financial aid options. To learn more, call 866-529-2070 or .

choosing the right college major

Choosing the College Major That Aligns with Your Career Goals

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Going to college and earning a degree can be a life-changing experience. You may have been told college is the path to a better life. While this is true, working toward a degree only makes sense if you have a clear vision as to how it will help you reach your future goals. This is where choosing the right major comes into play. Before you decide on a particular major or program, make sure it aligns with your interests, strengths and career goals. There’s a lot to think about before settling on a major, and the process can be overwhelming. A strong vision and plan of your academic path will help you be successful in college and after you graduate. A major is a subject you specialize in when you go to college or university. For example, people interested in becoming a mental health therapist may pursue a psychology major, while those wanting to become a nurse will choose nursing as their major. Once you decide on a major, you will be taking classes that teach you the skills you need to complete your degree and work in a given field. Colleges and universities offer a list of classes you must take and pass to fulfill the requirements of your major and earn your degree. These lists of classes are known as programs. For example, at St. Louis College of Health Careers, we offer a variety of to help you fulfill the requirements of your major and earn your degree. Consider a major that will genuinely interest you. If you’ve always thought about teaching and love interacting with children, perhaps pursuing a degree in elementary education is the right choice for you. Maybe you excel at multitasking and have excellent organizational skills. Why not let your managerial skills shine by becoming a ? Think about the things you’re good at. What’s something that comes easily to you? Maybe you’re good at caring for others or thrive in fast-paced environments. Often, people pursue degrees and occupations that pay well but aren’t a great fit for their abilities or predisposition. For instance, if you want to become a nurse but faint at the sight of blood, you will likely have a difficult time in nursing school. A person who wants to teach but has a fear of public speaking may become anxious and unhappy in their profession. Lastly, consider your career goals, such as salary expectations or your ideal work hours and work environment before deciding if the career you’re thinking about pursuing will be a good fit for you. It’s perfectly normal to have trouble deciding on a major. Sometimes knowing if a given major is the right choice for you requires gaining some first-hand insight. Consider volunteer work in a field you’re interested in to gain some hands-on experience. You can also talk to people working in fields that interest you about their personal experiences. If a particular major or program has caught your eye, think about reaching out to the Student services are an excellent source of information and can offer you plenty of insight and academic advice on the major you’re interested in studying. SLCHC’s academically challenging and hands-on programs provide a gateway into the world of healthcare. When you enroll in SLCHC, you become a member of an of like-minded people looking to grow both personally and professionally. To learn more about our diverse array of programs, call 866-529-2070 or .

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How to Mentally Prepare for College

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It’s official—you’ve registered for classes, paid your tuition fees and are ready to start college. Pursuing a college degree is an amazing opportunity to grow professionally and personally, but it can also be a challenging experience if you haven’t prepared yourself mentally for what lies ahead. While enrolling in classes and purchasing school supplies is a necessary step, you also need to have a solid game plan for not just surviving college but making the best of this crucial time in your life. The more prepared and organized you are, the easier the transition to college will be. Going to college while juggling other responsibilities can be stressful enough. Establishing unreasonable goals for yourself may be self-sabotaging. You can strive for success and personal growth without setting unreasonable expectations. Accept that transitioning to college may be a bumpy experience and will likely include plenty of ups and downs. Instead of aiming for straight As, set goals that are more realistic and useful. For example, during your first semester of college, focus on finding a pace that’s right for you. You may need to first learn how to navigate a learning platform if you choose to take online classes. Accept that those first few months of college may feel uncomfortable and embrace the transition. As time goes by, you’ll likely settle into your college routine and be able to pursue more ambitious academic goals. Whether you work full-time, have children or both, attending college often requires help and support from others. Things that you could handle by yourself before may need to be delegated to family members and friends. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need time to yourself for studying. Perhaps a parent, spouse or a good friend can help you care for your children, go grocery shopping or cook dinner. If you find yourself struggling mentally or academically, utilize your school’s resources. Schedule a session with a therapist or mentor. Reach out to a professor you trust for guidance or clarification on an assignment or topic you find confusing or unclear. Before you begin college, establish a sustainable routine. Block off a realistic amount of time for schoolwork and make it your top priority. Many people tend to leave schoolwork for the last minute. While procrastination may be tempting, it’ll likely leave you drowning in assignments and negatively affect your academic performance. By dedicating a couple of hours each day to studying, you’ll avoid the stress of having to turn in multiple assignments at the last minute. Dividing your study time equally during the week will give you more free time on the weekends to relax, exercise or spend quality time with your children. If you haven’t established healthy eating habits, starting college may be the ideal time to do so. Studying can take a significant toll on your brain, so make it a priority to nourish your mind with healthful foods. While eating junk food and skipping meals may have worked for you thus far, if you want to stay energized and focused on your studies, you’ll need to incorporate brain-boosting foods into your everyday diet, such as lean meats, yogurt, fish, eggs, fruits and vegetables. Avoid skipping meals, even when your schedule is tight, as failure to recharge may cause your energy level to plummet, which can negatively affect your focus and academic performance. Being consistently busy with school and work may cause you to stay up during the night doing things you enjoy, like watching movies, going out with friends or even just browsing social media. While the need to engage in the things you like after a busy day of work and studying is understandable, sacrificing sleep can increase your stress levels and make it unnecessarily difficult to manage multiple responsibilities. Allow your brain to recover from a busy day by getting at least seven hours of sleep. Getting plenty of sleep allows your brain to recharge and serve you well during this busy stage of your life. Students enrolled in our flexible and state-of-the-art to support them throughout their academic journey. To about SLCHC’s educational opportunities, call 866-529-2070.