People are always willing to talk about the fact that it takes a lot of dedication to go back to school, but what they aren’t saying is that it takes a lot of money too. Since there aren’t any schools offering degrees in agriculture with a concentration in money tree growing, it’s safe to say that you’ll have to figure out a way to fund your new future. The process can be pretty overwhelming, so we’ve narrowed down the four major types of financial aid available for students.

Scholarships: All types of organizations and schools offer scholarships for pretty much anything under the sun: your interests, your hometown, your major, etc. There’s even a scholarship out there for skateboarders. The two most popular types of scholarships given are based on academic achievement (good grades) and athletics. Scholarships usually require an application process that involves proof of achievement and in many cases an essay. Applications are then evaluated, and eligible recipients are awarded money according to the terms of the scholarship. A word of warning: there are some sites that will try to scam you with fake scholarship opportunities. You should never have to pay a fee to be considered for a legitimate scholarship.

Grants: The most popular source of grant aid is the federal government. Grants are “gift” aid that you don’t have to pay back, but you don’t have to earn them in the same way you would with a scholarship (scholastic or athletic achievement). Grants are usually offered on a need basis determined by the information you submit on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Loans: These are the most widely available type of funding, but they will need to be repaid. You are borrowing someone’s money (from either the government or a private financial institution), and in most cases you don’t have to start paying off these loans until you graduate. You’ll have to pay interest, but it’s typically lower than what you’ll find on other types of unsecured loans.

Work study: In some cases the federal government will award need-based financial aid through a work study program. These are jobs (mostly on campus) where you are guaranteed a position at a fixed wage (usually hourly). Jobs could include security, library, maintenance or cafeteria work, but this all depends on the needs of the university. Work study is awarded through completion of the FAFSA.

No one knows your situation as well as you do, so the best thing to do is explain your financial situation to someone who can help.  You’ll find a listening ear in someone in the admissions or financial aid office at the university you plan on attending.  They’ll be able to steer you in the right direction and help you find the best way to pay for your education.

Once you’ve made the decision to go to college, the next thing you’ll need to decide is where to go. You’ll want to find a school that offers a great program with a helpful faculty, fun activities, a practical location and enough financial aid to make it all actually happen. Here we’ve outlined some of the main factors students should consider when choosing a college or university:

Location, location, location. Location can be one of the greatest determining factors when it comes to choosing a school. If you have a job or a family, packing up and moving to attend class might not make the most sense for you. Students are often limited by the school choices located within a reasonable commuting distance, so when your location is fairly fixed, online education can be a great alternative. When you go to school online, you can attend class virtually anywhere you can find an Internet connection—your bedroom, the local coffee shop or even on your lunch break at work.

If moving to a new location for school is possible for you, there are a number of decisions you’ll have to make, such as whether you want to attend school in a city or in a more rural setting. You’ll also probably want to live somewhere in which your chosen field has prominence—for example, if you’re majoring in finance, you might consider going to school in New York City where you can work on Wall Street during the summers. If you’re interested in film, Southern California might be the place for you. You don’t want your degree to become obsolete only because there isn’t a market for your profession where you live.

Fun and games. One of the perks of college life is the amazing number of activities students can get involved with, and for some, it’s an integral part of the college experience. A devoted soccer player probably wouldn’t be happy somewhere she couldn’t be on the field. A budding journalist will want a school with a great newspaper. If you have your heart set on pledging a fraternity your freshman year, weed out schools without a Greek system to help narrow your selection pool. Knowing the activities you want to participate in helps you get one step closer to making your final decision.

What others think. It might not always be fair, but there is a good reason schools are ranked, most famously by US News and World Report, and that’s because people want to know what schools are considered to be the best. While rankings are in no way entirely objective, they can influence a prospective student’s decision. If you’ve narrowed your list down to a school ranked in the top 50 and a school that didn’t make the cut, that ranking could definitely have some influence.

Published rankings certainly help shape a school’s academic reputation, but schools become known for other things, too. There are party schools, schools known for sports, and schools with strong individual programs, like engineering or music. The best way to find out the truth about a school is to visit with current students, especially those who share your interests. If you’re a serious student, talk to people involved in academic clubs like the debate team or honors society. If you’re a social butterfly, get in touch with members of Greek organizations. The best way to judge if a school is a good fit for you is to experience campus life for yourself.

Money matters. When you’re looking at a school’s tuition cost, it’s important to think of it in terms of tuition minus financial aid. Federal financial aid, including Stafford loans, Plus loans and Pell grants, is available to students based on their financial need and not where they end up going to school. But institutional financial aid, the aid offered by individual colleges and universities, isn’t the same at every school. Private schools, while generally more expensive than a public school, also tend to be far more generous with scholarships and grants—these are the best sources of aid since they are essentially free money and don’t have to be repaid. So, if your tuition is $15,000 and you’re awarded $10,000 in grants, you only have to fork over $5,000, and that’s the number you should be looking at if your choice comes down to money.

The best way to determine which school is right for you is to make a list of everything you’re looking for and, as you research different colleges and universities, scratch schools off that list if they don’t offer what’s most important to you.

A college degree means a lot to employers

You’ve done everything right: You’ve come in early and stayed late, taken on extra work and beaten deadlines. And yet, you were still passed over for that coveted promotion. “What’s the deal?” you wonder. You’re experienced and committed, and you have proven that you’re an ideal candidate for the position.

Often, the only thing standing between you and the job you want is your education, or lack thereof. You can have decades of experience and still miss out on great job opportunities because you don’t have enough education. Some companies have clearly-defined requirements for each of their positions, and it’s not unusual for education to be at the top of the list. Many corporations won’t give management positions to anyone without a bachelor’s degree, and some business types won’t make it without a master’s of business administration, or MBA. Registered nurses who want administrative positions will need to get back to school and earn a bachelor’s of science in nursing, or BSN.

Having a college degree tells your current or prospective employer a lot. First, students gain a wealth of knowledge in school, and spending two or four years immersed in a program dedicated to your job field arms you with the knowledge you’ll need from day one on the job. Employers know that if you’ve got a degree, you won’t need as much training as those without one. A degree program also gives you a different perspective of the industry than that of someone without a diploma. Most programs cover theory in addition to practical application and generally offer a historical insight that someone might never gain with just on-the-job training.

A college degree means a lot to employers

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College also helps you develop general skills that don’t come from any one particular class. In school, you’ll write lots and lots of papers, and your writing skills will be honed along the way. Many programs feature a core curriculum of general classes that all students have to take—history, English, math, science—to help you gain a broad appreciation for the world at large, as well as develop a general familiarity with important concepts and principles outside of your field of study. This kind of instruction helps you become more well-rounded and versatile, something employers consider to be very valuable.

Commitment is another great aspect of a college degree. You dedicate a lot of time to completing assignments, writing papers and studying for exams, and you learn priceless tactics like time management and how to focus on the task at hand. Aside from time, college is a financial commitment with tuition, books and other expenses all quickly adding up. All of this investment proves to an employer that you’re devoted to your career.

In short, a college degree serves as proof that you’re knowledgeable and qualified in your field. If you’re already working and jonesing for a better position, you’ll find that today, it’s easier than ever to earn a diploma. Online programs easily fit into full-time work schedules, and online degrees are offered in dozens of majors at all levels. Keep in mind that your employer might be a huge financial help if you’re looking to kick up your career—a common workplace benefit is tuition reimbursement.

Behind the scenes: What it’s really like to be a massage therapist

Becca C., who lives and works in Richmond, Virginia, loves her job. She has a flexible schedule, gets to work with all sorts of people and makes great money. But it wasn’t always this way. She used to have a stressful job in news that kept her working late nearly every night and didn’t pay well. So what changed? Becca went to massage therapy school.

Becca C. says she first got the idea to become a massage therapist when she ran across an ad in the paper. She wanted a less stressful career in a fun environment that would eventually allow her to work for herself. She decided to call up her local massage therapy school and ask a few questions. She was looking for classes that would allow her to keep her full-time job while she went to school. Like many adults, Becca needed a flexible class schedule. The school she spoke with seemed to fit her needs perfectly, and after she took a tour she decided to enroll in massage therapy school.

We sat down with Becca C. for a one-on-one discussion to learn more about what going to massage therapy school is really like.

What subjects did you study in massage therapy school?

Becca: I took a number of different classes, from the history of massage to anatomy. I had to take pathology classes, a medical terminology class and even a business class.

Why so many medical classes?

Becca: It’s very important that you learn the body from head to toe. You’ll be working on all sorts of people who may have serious medical conditions and you’ll need to know what could be potentially harmful. Massage therapy can be dangerous if done incorrectly or on the wrong person.

How much of massage therapy school was hands on?

Becca: It was a pretty even mix. Some of the classes I took were hands-on massage classes. In them I would learn more about the different types of massage – like deep tissue massage, aromatherapy massage and hot stone massage. Then we’d learn how to do them properly. We also had to practice massage outside of class. The more you practice, the better you get.

Behind the scenes: What it’s really like to be a massage therapist

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How do you get your license to practice massage therapy?

Becca: After graduation, you have to sit down for a really long test. It’s kind of like the SATs for massage therapists. If you pass, the state Board of Nursing will give you your license and you can legally work as a massage therapist in your state. In order to keep your license, you have to continue to take classes and further your education. You have to have this license to practice massage therapy.

What are some possible career paths for recent massage therapy graduates?

Becca: You could end up working in a luxury spa, like I do. Some people choose to work for a chiropractor or physical therapist. Many major sports teams, like those in the NFL and NBA, have a massage therapist on staff, so if you’re a sports fan that could be an option for you. Or you could just go into business for yourself.

What kind of person would be a great massage therapist?

Becca: You have to be outgoing and attentive to people’s needs. You need to be a bit of a salesperson and be able to put yourself out there. You should be a good listener, be willing to learn and be able to recognize if you have what’s called a “good touch.” If you don’t know when you’re hurting people while massaging them, you won’t make a very good massage therapist.

What’s the worst thing about being a massage therapist?

Becca: Having to say no. Occasionally people with serious medical conditions will come in for a massage without talking to their doctor first. If getting a massage will make their condition worse, I have to say no to them which can be really tough. I also occasionally get people who come in for a massage after they’ve just left the gym – and they haven’t showered. Dealing with sweaty and dirty people is a hazard of the job that sometimes can be tough to handle.

What’s your favorite thing about being a massage therapist?

Becca: It allows me freedom and it’s definitely not your normal nine-to-five job. It’s a great way to make money but best of all are the people. I get to meet eight different people a day. I love it!

If you’re interested in becoming a massage therapist, Becca recommends going online and reading more about what classes are offered near you. She also suggests you interview a working massage therapist and check out your local nursing board website to learn more about your state’s requirements for massage therapists. Most of all though, Becca recommends that you get a massage. If you really enjoy it and could see yourself on the other end of the massage, you might just make a great massage therapist.

Learn more about campus degrees. See what degrees are available in your area.

What it really takes to be a great culinary student

Just because you love cooking doesn’t mean you’ll be a great chef. And just because you’re good at cooking, doesn’t mean culinary school will be a piece of cake. Sound surprising? We were amazed at what we learned when we decided to find out what it would be like to go to culinary school.

We picked the brain of Chef Michael F. Nenes MBA, CEC, CCE, who is the Assistant Vice President Culinary Arts General Manager of the International Culinary Schools at the Art Institutes. The accomplished chef and restaurant owner gave us the inside scoop what it’s really like to be in culinary arts school and what it takes to succeed.

What subjects are studied in culinary school?

Chef Nenes: If you go for an associate-level degree, you’ll study the basic fundamentals of cooking and international cuisine, among other things.

Culinary school management degree courses would include classes like purchasing and product ID, learning how to use the menu as a management tool, classes about food and beverage operations, planning and controlling costs and capstone. The capstone course requires students to develop a business plan for a new restaurant.
If you decide to go to culinary school and get your bachelor’s degree, you’ll take upper-level classes that will continue to focus on management skills, including courses on global management, innovation and entrepreneurship.

How much of culinary school is hands-on?

Chef Nenes: Our culinary school system model is as follows:

• 43 % lecture
• 52 % hands-on kitchen work
• 5% externship (similar to an internship)

What it really takes to be a great culinary student

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What surprises students most about culinary school?

Chef Nenes: Most people are surprised to find that it is real college that requires you to study “reading, writing and arithmetic.” The culinary industry wants our students to be able to communicate, solve problems, and develop critical thinking skills as well as be able to manage people. We have embedded these soft skills in the majority of our courses. Here at International Culinary Schools at the Art Institutes, a culinary program is more than cooking.

How long do most people attend culinary arts school?

Chef Nenes: Depending on the degree program you enroll in, we have one-year diplomas, 18-month associate’s degrees and four-year bachelor’s degrees.

Can students still work while attending school?

Chef Nenes: Yes, about 85% of culinary students work part time or full time while attending school.

What are some typical career paths after culinary school?

Chef Nenes: Upon graduation, culinary arts students will be prepared for entry-level positions such as garde manger (a person who prepares and presents cold foods), line cook, or dining room manager in diverse workplaces such as hotels, restaurants, hospitals, or resorts.

Culinary management students, students who learn how to manage a restaurant from front to back, may take positions with restaurants, hotels, food service institutions, catering and other culinary or hospitality-related business.

What are some common traits of a great culinary arts student?

Chef Nenes: Commitment, teamwork, passion for food, and the drive to be the best.

What advice do you have for people interested in attending culinary arts school?

Chef Nenes: Do the research; make sure the culinary school is right for you. Make sure the faculty not only has industry experience, but academic credentials as well. Talk to other current students and find out how they manage their classes. Make sure the school has a wide variety of equipment and food and make sure you’ll be exposed to a variety of different cuisines.

How would a potential student know if culinary school is right for them?

Chef Nenes: If possible, work a few months in a food service operation. Talk to local chefs, both those in high-profile restaurants but also in the average local establishment. Do you have a passion for food or do you cook just because it’s fun? How does culinary school fit into your long-range career goals?

What is your favorite thing about being a chef?

Chef Nenes: Learning to work with new ingredients.

Anything else you’d like prospective culinary arts students to know?

Chef Nenes: Culinary Arts is a professional service and we like to make people happy. Always remember that good food should put a smile on your face.

Find a culinary school program in your area!

Getting an auto technician certification can lead to a great career

If you’re interested in getting an auto technician certification or an auto technician diploma but are afraid you’ll be stuck with an ordinary job, never fear. Depending on what kind of certification you earn, you’ll find plenty of interesting jobs out there. Here are just a few of your options.

Search Auto Technician Certifications.

NASCAR Pit Crew

If you’ve ever dreamed of life on pit road, here’s your chance. Some schools offer a specialized program that teaches you the ins and outs of being part of the NASCAR pit crew. In order to land a job like this, you’ll need plenty of hands-on experience. You’ll need to be able to troubleshoot, diagnose, service and repair NASCAR race cars. Remember, NASCAR vehicles are complicated machines with intricate electronic systems and onboard computers. You’ll not only need to know how to work on these cars, but how to completely rebuild and test them in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

Marine Technician

If boats are more your style, then getting a diploma or certification in marine technology will help you land the job of your dreams. As a marine technician, you’ll work on outboard engines, stern drive engines, two- and four-stroke engines, fuel systems, electrical systems, hull design, trim and tilt. This job requires that you know how to work on all types and brands of marine motors, both diesel- and gas-powered. You’ll also need to know how to use specialized marine diagnostic, repair, and maintenance equipment.

Motorcycle Technician

Much like marine technicians, motorcycle technicians need to know how to work on all types of bikes. You’ll need to know how to fix everything from a Harley to a Kawasaki. You’ll learn how to diagnose and repair engines, fuel systems, and electrical systems. As motorcycles get more and more complicated and specialized, motorcycle techs will need to adapt to the times.

Diesel and Industrial Technology Technician

Diesel and industrial technology techs work on everything from diesel trucks to forklifts and construction equipment. If you like getting your hands dirty on vehicles that weigh 50 tons or more, then this is the career for you.

Small Engine Technician

If working with small machines is more your style, then this job just might be right for you. Small engine technicians work on all sorts of household items like lawnmowers, weed whackers and even motorized toys. But don’t be fooled by the dimensions of these motors; working on them can be a challenging task.

Find a diploma program that’s right for you.

Comparing the costs of online and campus degrees

Figuring out how much it will cost you to go to college can be seriously confusing. Sure, the price per credit hour might be $300 – but how much will it actually cost you to get a degree? We’ve put together some estimates to help you figure out what degree and what kind of school might be right for you.

Don’t let the numbers scare you. The key is to remember that every person is different. You may qualify for scholarships and grants that will drive these prices way down – especially if you’ve been in the military. Also keep in mind that people with a bachelor’s degree make almost a million dollars more in their lifetimes than people who have only a high school diploma. The investment is well worth it.

Remember – these are just estimates. To find out how much a specific program costs, visit your local college or request information about online degree programs.

Public two-year community colleges

Public two-year community colleges cost about $2,400 in tuition per year, on average. Keep in mind that two-year community colleges don’t offer advanced degrees – you’ll only be able to get an associate’s degree at these schools. You’ll have to transfer to another school to get your bachelor’s.

Cost for an associate’s degree: $4,800

Online and campus degree schools

The cost of an online or campus degree program truly depends on where you go. These type of schools usually charge between $100-$500 per credit hour, so attending will cost you anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000 per year (two semesters). While the lower-priced schools might be tempting, remember that sometimes you get what you pay for. You’ll want to research your school thoroughly before enrolling and make sure it’s accredited. Advantages of online schools include flexibility with class schedules and the ability to learn from home, making them ideal for working students.

Cost for an associate’s degree: $6,000 – $30,000

Cost for a bachelor’s degree: $12,000 – $60,000

Four-year public and private schools

Attending a public university or college will cost you between $6,200 and $17,000 a year, on average (for two semesters). A private college will cost you even more, about $24,000 a year. These numbers excludes room and board, which can drive up the cost of college by between $7,400 and $8,600 a year. That makes attending a public or private school pretty pricy – it’ll cost you between $13,600 and $32,600 a year to attend.

Cost for a bachelor’s degree: $54,400 – $130,400

Learn more about campus degree programs.