Here To Help

blogsLeave a comment

HELP IS AVAILABLE    The members of the St. Louis College of Health Careers are concerned about your safety and well-being on and off campus.  All of these resources provide 24/7 confidential support.    Security Concerns on Campus  Contact David Blanc or your program director if you feel unsafe on campus or if a are worried about a situation from off campus effecting you here. We have taken specific security measures for students before.     Resources in the St. Louis Area  City of St. Louis Resources – Domestic and Family Violence Help  Start STL – DOMESTIC VIOLENCE – START HERE …

difference in college degrees

What Are the Big Differences in College Degrees?

blogsLeave a comment

There are generally four types of degrees available in higher education: associate degree, bachelor’s degree, master’s degree and doctoral degree. Some educational institutions, such as the St. Louis College of Health Careers, also offer certificates and in certain fields. Each degree comes with its own unique focus, requirements and career options. Understanding the distinctions between these degrees can help you make an informed decision about which educational path is best for your preferred occupation and life goals. Certificates and diplomas are programs that offer concentrated training and specialized knowledge in specific domains. They provide a targeted education alternative to conventional degree programs that require students to take a broad array of courses. This focused approach to higher ed may be appealing to individuals desiring particular skills or those who want to augment their proficiency in a specific field. Whether you’re seeking entry into a fresh career, progression within your existing profession or are interested in learning practical skills, certificates and diplomas provide a straightforward pathway to fulfill educational and vocational objectives. An associate degree is a program that typically spans two years and falls under the category of undergraduate studies. It is available at community colleges, technical schools and select universities. These programs impart a strong base of knowledge and skills in a specific area of study. Whether you are at the beginning of your educational journey or seeking to enhance your qualifications, an associate degree can unlock diverse career prospects or act as a steppingstone on your path toward obtaining a bachelor’s degree. Associate degree programs often prioritize a practical and hands-on learning approach, focusing on the cultivation of skills directly applicable to specific industries or fields. These programs are also known for their cost-effectiveness, enabling students to acquire valuable education and training within a shorter timespan compared to a bachelor’s degree program. A bachelor’s degree is a program offered by higher education institutions that typically requires around four years (or eight semesters) of concentrated study. These degrees are designed to impart a thorough education in a specific field, like business, science, humanities, healthcare and engineering, as well as a general base of knowledge in subjects like math and English. This degree path not only imparts specialized knowledge but also fosters critical thinking, analytical abilities and effective communication skills, all of which are vital for career adaptability. Although many graduates do find employment in a relevant field to their degree focus, they’re equipped with the tools to learn new skills and branch out professionally. A master’s degree is an advanced academic program undertaken subsequent to the completion of a bachelor’s degree. It features a comprehensive and focused education in a specific subject, empowering learners to cultivate deep comprehension and proficiency in their chosen discipline. This elevated qualification offers a platform for career advancement and increased earning potential. Master’s degree programs often entail demanding coursework, research and occasionally practical involvement in a professional setting relevant to their area of study. Students are given the opportunity to delve into advanced topics and engage in critical analysis. Earning a master’s degree enables you to establish yourself as an authority in your filed, set yourself apart in the job market and pursue leadership positions or further educational pursuits, including a doctoral degree. A doctorate degree, also known as a doctoral degree, is the highest level of education one can attain. It involves extensive research, rigorous study and producing an original dissertation or thesis in a specialized field of study. Doctorate programs demand a high level of intellectual rigor, critical thinking and independent research skills. These programs typically span several years and require a significant commitment of time and effort. Graduates with a doctorate degree are recognized as experts in their chosen field, contributing to the advancement of knowledge through their research. A doctorate degree opens doors to prestigious career opportunities in academia, research institutions and various industries, including healthcare, technology and government. At St. Louis College of Health Careers, we offer a variety of healthcare degrees and diplomas tailored to your individual interests, needs and aspirations. Whether you’re looking to become a nurse, specialize in pharmacy technology or pursue a career in healthcare administration, we have programs designed to prepare you for success in the ever-growing healthcare industry. To learn more about our fully accredited healthcare programs, or call 866-529-2070.

funding to go to college

Ways to Maximize Funding to Pay for College

blogsLeave a comment

Are you interested in pursuing a college degree but the thought of funding your education is making you second guess your dreams? You’re not alone. Many people get discouraged from getting a higher education because they don’t think they can afford it or simply aren’t willing to take out loans. Despite what some people would have you believe, going back to school doesn’t have to leave you with long-term debt. Not every school or program carries the same high cost. Researching your options and shopping around may help you identify more affordable alternatives that will help you reach your career goals. There are also a variety of resources available to students of all types of backgrounds and socioeconomic means. These resources can help you defray the personal financial cost of earning a certificate or degree. It’s important to understand that qualifying for many of these benefits does require effort and legwork on behalf of students – but there can be significant payoff if you’re willing to invest the time and energy. One of the most effective ways to secure funding for college is through grants. Federal, state and institutional grants are available to eligible students based on financial need. The first step is to complete the to determine your eligibility for various grant programs. Grants, unlike loans, don’t require repayment, making them an attractive option for students looking for alternatives to traditional student loans. Students interested in pursuing grants need to carefully read the fine print and qualification requirements, as grants will have application deadlines and eligibility limitations. Scholarships provide another avenue for reducing college expenses. Many organizations, institutions and foundations offer scholarships based on academic achievement, talents, skills or specific demographic factors. Research and apply for scholarships that align with your strengths and interests, as these can significantly offset tuition costs. Explore online scholarship databases, consult with your school’s and reach out to community organizations to discover available opportunities. Don’t overlook smaller, local scholarships, as they can still make a substantial impact on your finances. Consider working part-time or during breaks to contribute toward your college expenses. On-campus jobs, such as working at the library, administrative offices or campus events, often provide flexible schedules because these employers will have an intimate understanding of your academic commitments. Additionally, part-time jobs off-campus can help you gain valuable work experience while earning money. Just remember to strike a balance between work and academics to ensure that your studies remain a priority. Starting your college journey at a community college can be a financially savvy decision. Community colleges typically have lower tuition rates, allowing you to save money during your first two years of study. Many community colleges also have articulation agreements with four-year institutions, which ensure that your credits transfer seamlessly, allowing you to earn a bachelor’s degree at a discount. This approach gives you an opportunity to adjust to college life, explore different fields of study and make an informed decision about your major without accruing excessive debt. When considering colleges, factor in the cost of attendance and the potential return on investment. Compare tuition rates, fees and the availability of financial aid packages offered by different institutions. Remember that higher-priced institutions may not always guarantee a better education or career prospects. Evaluate the reputation, quality of programs and job placement rates of prospective schools. Choosing a more affordable school that aligns with your academic goals can significantly reduce your financial burden. Developing strong budgeting skills is essential for getting the most out of your limited resources during college. Create a realistic budget that includes all your expenses, such as tuition, textbooks, housing, transportation and personal items. Track your spending, seek out cost-saving measures and prioritize your needs over wants. Take advantage of student discounts, buy used textbooks, cook meals at home and consider sharing housing expenses with roommates. By adopting smart financial habits, you can minimize unnecessary expenses and make the most of your available funds. Keep in mind that lean college years can be temporary, especially if you sacrifice non-essential luxuries today to avoid taking on excessive long-term debt. SLCHC offers a diverse catalog of healthcare programs that can be completed on your schedule. We also help you access various resources, such as grants, scholarships and federal student loans. Learn more about our institutionally accredited and how they can help you land the healthcare career of your dreams by calling 866-529-2070.

clock on a yellow wall

How to Manage Your Time When It Comes to Work and School

blogsLeave a comment

If you’re a student with many obligations, like working a full-time job or raising children (or both), schoolwork may feel like a dauting and overwhelming task. Luckily, balancing your different responsibilities doesn’t have to be impossible. With a little effort and strategy, you can learn to manage your time more effectively, allowing you to pursue a college degree without sacrificing work or quality time with family and friends. Like many people, you likely own a smartphone, which means you may be taking a lot of time out of your day to check social media, text friends and answer personal phone calls. While interacting with the world is generally a good thing, spending hours scrolling your Facebook and Instagram feeds can take valuable time away from you without providing real fulfillment or helping you meet your goals. If staying off your phone while you’re at work or studying is a challenge, try setting your phone to airplane mode. This will keep your phone offline and prevent you from sending and receiving calls and texts. Even the most hectic and busy day can become easier if you plan it ahead. Your to-do list can be as detailed and fixed or as fluid as you need it to be. The idea here is to be organized and in control of your time, not the other way around. For example, if you plan to study on a day you have to work, you can schedule some time for this either before or after work. However, if you decide at the last minute you’d rather do schoolwork on another day, have some alternatives in place like doing a load of laundry or shopping for groceries. This way you’ll avoid leaving everything for the last minute (which can be overwhelming and affect your productivity). You may have heard successful people are those who can multitask. However, reality shows this couldn’t be further from the truth. Paradoxically, when you try to “do it all,” you end up getting nothing done. As a busy student, you may feel compelled to do a few things at the same time, thinking it’s the smart and efficient thing to do. This is understandable, but keep in mind that trying to “do it all” may result in getting nothing done. shows our brains simply aren’t wired to effectively handle more than one task at a time. So next time you study for a test, read your textbook or work on an assignment, make sure you’re not trying to do something else simultaneously like cook dinner, scroll social media or chat with a friend. Although your significant other and children won’t be able to study for you, there are several other things they can help you with if you feel you’re running out of time. It may be tempting to prove to yourself you can do it all—work, run a home and go to school—but this is often untrue and unnecessary. There’s nothing wrong with asking others for help to free up some time for schoolwork or a well-deserved break. Even the strongest and most organized people will become tired and stressed if they neglect to take time off from their everyday responsibilities. Prioritizing relaxation and self-care when you’re super busy isn’t a luxury—it’s actually necessary if you want to avoid burnout and exhaustion. Taking time off doesn’t have to involve days or weeks of vacation. It can be as little as taking 30 minutes out of your day to go for a walk or meditate. You can also set aside one day in a week that’s completely free from work and study. You can spend this day as you wish and indulge in the things you love, such as spending time with family, taking a road trip or simply binge watching your favorite show. When you enroll at the St. Louis College of Health Careers in Missouri, you automatically gain access to which include several academic resources that can help you balance your studies, work and personal life. Our dedicated academic advisors are here to offer personalized mentorship and academic tools tailored to your unique situation. To explore our diverse healthcare programs, or call 866-529-2070.

tips and tricks for college finals

Tips and Tricks for Taking College Finals

blogsLeave a comment

You work hard all semester long, attending lectures, writing research papers and meeting project deadlines, all while maintaining your grade point average (GPA). Finals week should be no different — in fact, most students consider it to be the most crucial week of the semester. Final exams and term papers can often have a huge impact on your overall grade on your . It is important you do everything you can to feel well-rested, prepared and confident for your finals. In the days leading up to finals week, take advantage of the time you have available to prep and don’t be afraid to try new study methods, especially if your current techniques aren’t serving you well. If you’re feeling stuck or your go-to tips and tricks simply aren’t enough, don’t give up. Studying techniques work differently for each student, so it’s just a matter of figuring out what works best for you and your workload. The key is to be patient with yourself and the material. As you prepare for your college finals, keep an open mind and experiment with some of these helpful studying tips. You may even find your new favorite study technique. Chances are you will likely have more than one final exam or paper to worry about come finals week. Ensuring your schedule is comprehensive, and double checking to make sure nothing is missing, is the first step to managing your time and workload effectively. There is nothing worse than missing a deadline or forgetting an assignment simply because it wasn’t clearly written in your planner or calendar. An organized and detailed calendar can bring you peace of mind and free up space in your day — allowing you the capacity to focus on studying rather than frantically piecing together due dates at the last minute. Once you have all key deadlines ironed out, take the time to create a study schedule that works with your lifestyle. To avoid poor time management, it’s good to set boundaries and time limits for each class or final. A study schedule can help keep you on track and ensure you review all essential notes and study materials. Although final exams are designed to wrap up the semester, that doesn’t mean every lecture or chapter in your textbook will be covered in your final. In most cases, your professors will provide you with a comprehensive study guide or at least a bulleted outline of topics and materials to review prior to taking your exam. While vigorously studying the material within each of these categories is important, giving each equal focus likely isn’t realistic. As you work through your study schedule, start with the material that is guaranteed to be on the exam followed by the material in category two. The key is to feel confident about the information and material in one category before moving on to the next. If you are comfortable collaborating and working closely with fellow students, participating in a study group can make all the difference. You may find one person’s interpretation of the material helps make crucial connections in your brain and strengthens your understanding and retention of the study material(s). Even if you generally don’t study with other students, finals preparation may be a good time to step out of your comfort zone. Don’t hesitate to join a study group or initiate one with a few of your classmates. It is not physically possible to study every waking moment of every day. Without proper sleep and a healthy diet, your efforts might be wasted or less effective than they could be. Just as a study schedule is instrumental to your success during finals week, adequate recovery time and a nourishing meal can go a long way. Instead of reaching for convenience and junk food, choose a balanced diet that includes things like nuts, yogurt, fruits and vegetables. Proteins and healthy fats will also provide you with the energy and brain fuel you need to retain information and recall it on the day of your final(s). We understand that enrolling in college can often feel intimidating and overwhelming. At St. Louis College of Health Careers, we believe that every individual should have access to a quality education that works with their lifestyle. We offer . To learn more, call 866-529-2070 or .

coping with holiday stress

Coping with Holiday Stresses as a College Student

blogsLeave a comment

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.

healthy college eating habits

Healthy Food Habits for College Students

blogs, UncategorizedLeave a comment

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?

blogs, UncategorizedLeave a comment

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

blogsLeave a comment

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 .

alarm clock and person sleeping for school

How to Mentally Prepare for College

blogsLeave a comment

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.