Q&A with Jennifer Sedelmeyer

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

杏吧原创 Jennifer Sedelmeyer

Jennifer Sedelmeyer is an adjunct instructor with 杏吧原创 and SUNY Broome Community College where she teaches computer science courses. Her love of computers and technology stems from her childhood, and she remembers tinkering with a model train set. Sedelmeyer earned an Associate in Applied Science from SUNY Broome Community College and a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science from Binghamton University.

At Excelsior, Sedelmeyer teaches IT 210 Object Oriented Programming and IT 240 Introduction to Programming. These are both important and beneficial courses for IT professionals just starting out or wanting to refresh their Java knowledge.

We asked Sedelmeyer about her courses, serving on the Information Technology Faculty Advisory Committee, and what she brings to the online classroom. Check out her answers below.

Q&A with Jennifer Sedelmeyer

Q: Can you describe the courses that you teach at Excelsior?
A: I teach IT 210, which is the Java class and IT 240, which is C++ programming. They鈥檙e both intro classes, so you can come in with no knowledge of programming and we get you started.

Q: What do you hope your students gain from your courses?
A: I want them to gather a lot of knowledge. I have students that range from age 12 to 91. So, they鈥檙e all different age brackets, and I want them to enjoy programming. I love it [programming], and I would like them to, but if they don鈥檛 love it, at least have an appreciation for it.

Q: What鈥檚 your favorite part about teaching your courses?
A: I like it when that light bulb goes off and the students then understand it and go, 鈥淥h yeah, I see it.鈥� I see that all the time, and after almost 35 years, I still see it and I鈥檓 still happy with it.

Q: What is your role on the Information Technology Faculty Advisory Committee?
A: The committee helps to decide changes in the curriculum and/or changes in the content of a course. We meet three times a year鈥e decide what courses we should add depending on current industry trends. Also, [we decide] any requirements for transfer credits and/or prerequisites. We get input from all over to see if our classes have the material that’s needed, and we make any changes.

Q: With your knowledge and experience, what do you bring to the Information Technology Faculty Advisory Committee?
A: I have been teaching at SUNY Broome Community College for 34 years. I can bring in that perspective鈥攚hat knowledge the community college or two-year school students have coming into Excelsior. I also have a programming background, so I can help with that topic.

Q: What new ideas do you have for curriculum development, as far as IT and programming courses?
A: We always try to stay current with whatever technology trends. For example, we have changed the programming language for the introduction to programming course.

Q&A with Gary McClain

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Gary McClain is an adjunct instructor with 杏吧原创 and a therapist who maintains the website www.JustGotDiagnosed.com, which provides information for patients and caregivers facing chronic and catastrophic illness. McClain works specifically with patients to help them understand and cope with their emotions.

McClain completed graduate work in clinical psychology and education and earned a PhD from the University of Michigan. He has spoken on topics such as dealing with medical diagnoses, being one鈥檚 own advocate, communication between patients and caregivers, and more. He conducts training for community agencies and works with employee assistance companies to provide workshops and counseling in the workplace. He has authored and co-authored many books and has several published articles.

McClain teaches health care courses with 杏吧原创, including HSC 316 Mind, Body, and Health; HSC 375 Health and Wellness; HSC 470 Healthcare Management Capstone; HSC 510 Health Care Policy, Politics, and Power; HSC 516 Communication Strategy for Health Care Leader; and HSC 698 MS in Health Care Administration Capstone.

We asked McClain about his career, his courses, and what he brings to Excelsior students through the courses he teaches. Check out his answers below.

Q&A with Gary McClain

Q: Can you describe your background?
A: I am a mental health professional currently. I am a therapist and I work with clients with chronic conditions, and I also work in the employee assistance environment. Many years ago, I worked on drug abuse and when I finished my PhD, I thought maybe I’d like to work in business. So, I took a little break鈥攚hich lasted 20 years鈥攁nd worked in marketing, and I did qualitative research鈥 just decided to go back into mental health back in 2002 and got my license in New York in 2005.

Q: What is the appeal of mental health?
A: I just really like helping people. When I was working in business, I did some interesting things and I enjoyed the work that I did, but I really missed helping people. And when I started doing qualitative research focus groups, I worked in mostly health-related [areas]; I worked for some pharma companies and a couple of cancer centers. What I was finding was that I would do focus groups or interviews and people would hang out afterwards and they would say 鈥渢hank you for talking to me about my emotions.鈥�

Q: Why do you enjoy teaching?
A: I feel by teaching I really touch peoples鈥� lives as well, and I love teaching. I just love it. I love being a counselor/therapist, and I really love teaching as well.

Q: How did you start teaching with Excelsior?
A: They brought me in to develop a health education kind of course and then they started letting me teach鈥nd then they started asking me to teach some other courses, and I just kind of gradually got integrated with Excelsior and it has been a great experience.

Q: What do you like about teaching the courses at Excelsior?
A: I like interacting with students. I love it when they email me, and I like being upbeat and friendly.
I like the discussions and so I feel that I have a real opportunity to bring my own personality into it as well. I have opportunities to talk about my work and things [that] are important to me, things that I鈥檓 seeing as a health professional. I like to think that I鈥檓 helping to raise awareness beyond general health issues鈥攔eally raise awareness around mental health issues as well.

Q: What do you think students gain from taking your courses?
A: I think students working in health are coming out of our courses in general鈥攂ut certainly my courses鈥攎ore aware of mental health and the importance of looking at mental health issues鈥 think they鈥檙e hopefully leaving more sensitive to their coworkers鈥� mental health issues, hopefully more aware of the importance of empathy and showing kindness and compassion to each other鈥 hope they鈥檙e recognizing that role of really watching out for each other鈥檚 mental health鈥攐ur patients, our coworkers, our employees鈥攔eally watching out for mental health and being aware that mental health can be an issue.

Career Spotlight: Front Office Administrator

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

If you鈥檙e looking for a first job in the business world, you might want to consider becoming a front office administrator. You can learn about many different companies and develop some useful skills in customer service and communication.

What Is a Front Office Administrator?

A front office administrator works in the front office or at the front desk of an organization or business, and is usually responsible for greeting customers, checking in customers for appointments, answering questions, and scheduling appointments. They often handle paperwork, correspondence, and other office duties. In this role, these professionals interact with customers and clients on a daily basis.

Let鈥檚 look more closely at this career and see if it sounds like the right choice for you.

Front Office Administrator Duties

Front office administrators are the face of a business, greeting visitors with professionalism and courteousness. They handle a range of duties and responsibilities. Let鈥檚 take a look at a few of them.

  • Welcoming all visitors and registering them at reception
  • Answering and screening telephone calls
  • Scheduling and confirming appointments, meetings, and important events
  • Copying, scanning, and filing documents
  • Preparing reports and maintaining records
  • Typing various documents
  • Processing incoming mail and distributing outgoing mail
  • Managing front office staff

In addition, many front office administrators may conduct payroll duties, depending upon where they work.

Kick-start your career with an AAS in Administrative and Management Studies from Excelsior.

Front Office Administrator Skills and Qualifications

First and foremost, a front office administrator should have excellent interpersonal skills to succeed in their role. This seems most obvious, but there are some other key skills someone should possess to do well in this position. These include:

  • Strong organization skills
  • Effective communication
  • Excellent customer service
  • Ability to multitask
  • Knowledgeable in technology
  • Able to work in a team

Educational Requirements

Beyond being good at customer service, many businesses require at least a high school diploma or equivalent to land this job. Some employers prefer candidates with an associate or bachelor鈥檚 degree in business or a related field. Excelsior鈥檚 Associate in Applied Science in Administrative and Management Studies gives you the knowledge and skills needed for business support roles such as a front office administrator.

Typically, front office administrators receive appropriate on-the-job training related to their company. Though not required, you may even consider completing certifications that can provide you with more knowledge and skills so you can further advance your career.

According to the Glassdoor, front desk administrators make $34,804 as a starting annual salary.

Does a job as a front office administrator match your interests? Talk to a Excelsior admissions counselor today to get started on a business degree.

Career Spotlight: Marketing Coordinator

Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

If you know you want to be in the marketing field but are unsure what to specialize in, consider a role as a marketing coordinator. Marketing coordinator is an entry-level job that allows you to learn about and gain experience in different specialties. You can use this position to figure out what you like best and what you are good at to find your dream job!

What Is a Marketing Coordinator?

A marketing coordinator works with all members of the marketing team to ensure marketing campaigns are executed successfully. They develop, coordinate, and analyze marketing projects assigned to them. Most marketing coordinators act as the manager鈥檚 right hand and are an essential member of any team.

The best part of the marketing coordinator position is you can develop your skills and work on what you are most passionate about. Most managers realize that for many people, this position is a stepping-stone along their career journey. For that reason, managers may work with you to find your niche.

While the main goal of a marketing coordinator is to coordinate marketing activities, there are distinct types of marketing coordinators based on the company or role in which you were hired for. Check out a few specialized marketing coordinator positions below:

  • Social media marketing coordinator: Works directly with the social media strategist to execute social media campaigns and grow the company鈥檚 audience.
  • Digital marketing coordinator: Implements digital marketing strategy with the goal of driving traffic.
  • Content marketing coordinator: Manages content creation for the whole team.
Ready for a bright new career opportunity? Earn your BS in Business with 杏吧原创.

What Does a Marketing Coordinator Do?

Marketing coordinator positions vary depending on the industry or company you work for. These are the most common responsibilities hiring managers have listed on recent job postings:

  • Develop strategic marketing initiatives and activities.
  • Support the creative services team by coordinating and collecting content for advertising campaigns.
  • Coordinate marketing plans that include print, broadcast, and online content.
  • Conduct market research to identify new opportunities.
  • Manage vendors, including print contractors, photographers, videographers, and other promotional vendors.
  • Assist with project management of all major marketing campaigns.
  • Record data and set up tracking systems for campaigns.
  • Suggest areas of opportunity. Use data and research to support your theories.

Marketing coordinators are also responsible for maintaining and strengthening the organization鈥檚 overall brand through all media avenues. Marketing coordinators are the backbone of the marketing team and are ultimately responsible for keeping projects moving according to a set timeline.

What Skills and Education Requirements Does a Marketing Coordinator Need?

Now that you know all about the marketing coordinator position, learn what education and skills you need to be successful. Check out these steps to becoming a marketing coordinator:

  • Earn your bachelor鈥檚 degree. To become a marketing coordinator, you need a bachelor鈥檚 degree in business, marketing, communications, or a related field to learn the fundamentals of marketing and business administration. At 杏吧原创, choose specialized coursework within your bachelor鈥檚 in business program.
  • Gain marketing experience. Use your degree to obtain an internship or job in a related field. This will set you apart from other candidates!
  • Find a marketing coordinator position. Use your skills and education to secure a job as a marketing coordinator. Hiring managers look for someone who can think on their feet, who is creative and has innovative ideas, has strong communication skills, and is an ambitious, team player.

Get started on your degree today and move one step closer to becoming a marketing coordinator!

How to Become a Marketing Manager

Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

Are you the type of person who takes the lead in your group? Are you always thinking of new ideas and strategies that will improve your workplace? If so, you may want to consider a career as a marketing manager.

You鈥檝e probably heard of marketing managers before, and maybe you even aspire to be one, but before you commit, you鈥檒l want to get the inside scoop on what it means to be a marketing manager.

What Is a Marketing Manager?

Marketing professionals are responsible for bringing their company鈥檚 service or product to the appropriate audience. Ever wonder why you are getting a targeted ad on your Instagram account, or why you keep getting emails about those cool shoes you were looking at last week? There is a marketing manager behind this work whose purpose is to sell the product or service provided. Marketing managers oversee the teams and strategize the tactics that make all this possible.

What Does a Marketing Manager Do?

Marketing managers must be highly organized to manage their team and the projects they are responsible for. While their day-to-day tasks will vary between industries and organizations, most marketing managers do the following:

  • Oversee marketing projects for the organization and ensure they are executed through to completion.
  • Work with leaders to create marketing plans, budgets and contracts, and the selection of advertising methods.
  • Plan advertising campaigns, including radio, television, print, online media, and billboards.
  • Work with members of the marketing team, including coordinators, graphic designers, content specialists, social media strategists, assistants, photographers, videographers, web specialists, and data specialists.
  • Build relationships with clients and ensure their needs are met.
  • Develop contracts and pricing strategies for products or services.
  • Evaluate the market and initiate market research studies to improve product or service success.
Make your move and take the lead with 杏吧原创鈥檚 BS in Business.

Where Do Marketing Managers Work?

All businesses need to promote their products or services, so marketing is necessary in almost every industry or organization. Because of this, you will find marketing managers working in a variety of different industries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2020 marketing managers held almost 300,000 jobs in the United States, with the largest employer of marketing managers being in professional, scientific, and technical services. Other areas include finance, insurance, advertising, public relations, manufacturing, education, and wholesale trade.

Overall, the need for marketing manager positions is expected to grow 10 percent by 2030, which is the average for all occupations. Demand will increase as organizations continue to expand. With the ever-changing technology trends, marketing managers must stay up to date to be successful. A huge portion of their job is working with other members of the marketing team, including graphic designers, digital specialists, and other technologically savvy positions. Because of the nature of their work, marketing managers also tend to work closely with leadership and top executives. Candidates who enjoy working with a large team, delegating, creating templates and procedures, and acting as the team leader will be successful in this role.

What Are the Education Requirements for Marketing Managers?

Ideally, a marketing manager will have at least a bachelor’s degree in marketing, management, business, communications, or another related field. A bachelor鈥檚 degree combined with similar work experience will set you up for success as a marketing manager.

Great qualities of a successful marketing manager include being influential and a natural leader. They also have these skills:

  • Analytical skills: It is important to analyze industry trends to build smart marketing campaigns.
  • Creativity: Innovative ideas and thoughts are always welcome and necessary in this field.
  • Communication skills: Marketing managers must communicate effectively with their team, leadership, and the general public.
  • Interpersonal and leadership skills: Building relationships with clients, members of the marketing team, and organizational leaders is imperative for this role. Project management and people management help in creating successful marketing plans.
  • Decision making skills: Managers must be able to make efficient decisions at any stage of the marketing campaign.

Whether you have been in the business world for years, or are looking to switch careers, a marketing manager position may be a great fit for you!

Career Spotlight: Inventory Associate

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

You know all that stuff in a store or manufacturer鈥檚 warehouse? Well, do you ever wonder who takes care of it all?

Meet the inventory associate.

What is an Inventory Associate?

An inventory associate is responsible for keeping track of the goods and supplies of a company and managing product orders to facilitate production and sales. Think of them like the behind-the-scenes workers who help an export and import or retail company run. They usually work in a warehouse or storage facility, but wherever they work, their job comes down to this: maintaining and recording inventory.

What Does an Inventory Associate Do?

As mentioned, an inventory associate keeps track of the goods and supplies of a company. They keep records of inventory, monitor and manage shipments, coordinate with vendors, check stocks of items, and conduct data entry. They are responsible for making sure shipping transactions and inventory records are correct, and they are deeply involved with resolving any issues that arise. If they work in a warehouse, they may use forklifts and other equipment to move boxes and other items.

Start an AAS in Administrative and Management Studies and get the workplace skills you need to succeed.

Oftentimes, an inventory associate retrieves specific items and organizing them into certain areas for customers. As such, they need to be aware of the needs of clients. You can see why an inventory associate鈥檚 role is crucial to an organization earning revenue.

Inventory Associate Duties and Responsibilities

To make sure inventory is properly stocked and organized, inventory associates are responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

  • Communicating with suppliers to determine product availability and pricing
  • Receiving and unpacking incoming shipments of merchandise
  • Checking stored inventory and discarding inventory that does not meet the company鈥檚 standards
  • Assisting customers with locating items in the store using computer tracking systems
  • Maintaining a database of all inventory items, including product codes and other details
  • Rotating the stock so the store is up to date with the current requirements
  • Researching and resolving any inaccuracies in inventory and internal processes
  • Conducting data entry, scheduling, customer service, etc., and related duties
  • Packing the boxes, stocking the shelves, loading trailers, shipping goods, etc.
  • Making sure any issues have been resolved

To accomplish many of these duties, inventory associates must possess certain character traits. These include:

  • Good communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Stamina
  • Good customer service
  • Organizational skills
  • Ability to be flexible under pressure

Education Requirements for an Inventory Associate

Inventory associate positions typically require at least a high school diploma or GED certificate, but some employees prefer candidates who have completed an associate or bachelor鈥檚 degree. Excelsior鈥檚 Associate in Applied Science in Administrative and Management Studies can prepare you for success in entry-level careers in office administration, recordkeeping, and data entry. It is an appropriate choice if you are interested in becoming an inventory specialist.

According to Salary.com, the average salary range of an inventory associate falls between $38,582 and $49,420. Salary varies depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years in the profession.

What Can You Do with a Master鈥檚 in Management

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Are you interested in business and want to learn how to make important decisions, communicate effectively, and analyze and solve problems? A master鈥檚 in management might be the degree you need to further your career in a range of industries, especially in upper-management and executive-level roles.

With a master鈥檚 in management, you can gain knowledge in economics, finance, human resources, marketing, strategy, supply chain management, organizational behavior, and other aspects of business. With a background in these areas, the doors open to many professions, such as in banking and finance, human resources and recruitment, auditing, business development, logistics, manufacturing, marketing, advertising, and more. Furthermore, with a master鈥檚 in management, you will be equipped with the skills and knowledge that can you lead you to senior management roles like director or chief operating officer.

Careers You Can Obtain with a Master鈥檚 in Management

A Master of Science in Management is a popular choice for professionals looking to move ahead in the business world. It is a versatile degree that prepares you to apply for management jobs in many different areas. Here are just a few:

  • CEO鈥擜s a CEO, you鈥檙e in charge of the company or organization. The skills you learn from your master鈥檚 degree will help you be an effective and strong leader so your company will prosper.
  • Management Analyst鈥擜 management analyst helps evaluate how a business functions. They use their knowledge of business operations to help make a company run efficiently and effectively.
  • Human Resources Manager鈥擧uman resources managers must be aware of both the business鈥� needs and the employees鈥� needs. A master鈥檚 in management will provide you with the skills needed to do just that.
  • Management Consultant鈥擜 management consultant offers detailed advice to help a business or organization improve their performance.
  • Project Manager鈥擜 project manager is responsible for making sure a client鈥檚 goal is achieved, all while sticking to an agreed-upon timeframe and budget. Important skills like communication and organization are necessary to succeed in this career.
  • Social Media Manager鈥擜 social media manager has a strong understanding of SEO strategy and knows how multimedia content and platforms can help improve an organization鈥檚 reputation and visibility.

    • How to Pursue a Master鈥檚 Degree in Management

    Careers in management can be found across the private and public sector, but one thing is similar throughout: you must earn a master鈥檚 degree in management. 杏吧原创鈥檚 online Master of Science in Management program equips you with the knowledge and skills in managerial practice that you can use on the job today. The program is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).

    Courses cover subjects that managers must master to successfully guide direct reports and develop employees, build effective teams, oversee projects, create budgets, handle corporate finances, manage organizational change, solve business problems, and communicate clearly with people at all levels of an organization.

    Graduates of this program are prepared to advance their careers as managers, executives, and consultants at international corporations, nonprofit organizations, and other organizations.

    Are you ready to advance your career in management?

    杏吧原创 Student Chapter Receives Merit Award from SHRM

    Posted on by Erin Coufal

    Albany, New York鈥擳he Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) awarded a 2021-2022 Superior Merit Award designation to the 杏吧原创 SHRM student chapter for providing superior growth and development opportunities to its student members.

    The SHRM Student Chapter Merit Award program encourages the development of more effective student chapters and distinguishes outstanding activities and projects. Chapters are recognized based on operations, chapter programming and professional development of members, support of the human resource profession, and SHRM involvement.

    鈥淚 am pleased to announce that the engagement and work of our SHRM student chapter has been recognized. I applaud their accomplishments and ability to foster innovative programming in human resources as our students learn to navigate changing workplaces,鈥� said David Schejbal, president of 杏吧原创. 鈥淪tudent members represent the next generation of leaders, and we are proud of the knowledge, skill, and passion that our Excelsior students bring to their chapter and the workplace.鈥�

    SHRM student chapters had the opportunity to earn an award based on the number of activities they completed during the merit award cycle of May 1, 2021, to April 30, 2022. Excelsior鈥檚 student chapter gained recognition with their educational programs and workshops focused on human resources, distributed workforces, and careers.

    # # #

    Media Contact 杏吧原创:

    Erin Coufal, ecoufal@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8498

    ABOUT EXCELSIOR UNIVERSITY
    杏吧原创 is an accredited, not-for-profit online institution focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. Excelsior contributes to the development of a diverse, educated, and career-ready society by valuing lifelong learning with an emphasis on serving individuals historically underrepresented in higher education. Founded in 1971, Excelsior meets students where they are 鈥� academically and geographically 鈥� removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity.

    ABOUT SHRM
    SHRM, the Society for Human Resource Management, creates better workplaces where employers and employees thrive together. As the voice of all things work, workers and the workplace, SHRM is the foremost expert, convener and thought leader on issues impacting today’s evolving workplaces. With 300,000+ HR and business executive members in 165 countries, SHRM impacts the lives of more than 115 million workers and families globally. Learn more at SHRM.org and on Twitter @SHRM.

    What is an Accelerated Online College?

    Posted on by Excelsior Staff

    Accelerated online degree programs, such as those offered at 杏吧原创, offer students an opportunity to earn a quality degree faster with the flexibility they need to reach their academic goals while meeting job and personal responsibilities.

    Excelsior鈥檚 online programs give students the opportunity to pursue their education from anywhere they have a reliable Internet connection. Most courses are eight weeks in length and start at intervals throughout the year. These aspects of online learning combined with a generous transfer policy, allow students to earn a degree much faster than they can at a traditional four-year university.

    Students new to accelerated online degree programs may wonder how online programs at 杏吧原创 work and what benefits they offer. The following provides an overview.

    The Importance of Accreditation

    Students interested in an accelerated online college program should focus on schools that are accredited. 杏吧原创, for example, is a not-for-profit institution accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    Earning accreditation is a rigorous process for an educational institution, but accreditation eliminates any concerns working adults have about the validity of the education they will receive. Accreditation also allows schools to take part in federal financial aid programs. Students can earn an accelerated degree without sacrificing any quality from their college education.

    Ready to accelerate your career? Get started today with one of Excelsior鈥檚 more than 35 degree programs.

    Start Dates and Class Length

    Two of the biggest benefits of accelerated online college degree programs are transferring credits from previous knowledge and experience and start dates that allow students to enter a program when it works best for them.

    杏吧原创 offers six start dates per year. For a traditional, on-campus university, a typical semester lasts 15 to 16 weeks. Accelerated online course sessions typically run about four to eight weeks, and Excelsior offfers courses that are eight weeks in length. Students also take fewer courses per session. Shortened sessions make it more convenient for working adults to fit studying into their busy schedules.

    Transfer Policy

    杏吧原创 offers students the ability to transfer credits from a variety of sources. They include academic credits from college courses and approved college-level exams, professional certificates, military training, and nursing licensing and certifications. With the ability to transfer credits from so many sources, students can significantly shorten the time and tuition expense required to finish a degree.

    Preparation for the Workforce

    An accelerated program curriculum often gets input from industry experts. This industry alignment ensures students learn the knowledge and skills that match what employers expect from college graduates. With online courses, working adults also can immediately apply what they learn to their jobs.

    For example, the online Bachelor of Professional Studies in Business and Management prepares graduates with skills in a variety of areas. They include accounting, financial management, marketing, project management, employee relations, leadership, management practice, business communication, and global commerce.

    At 杏吧原创, students also have access to the which helps students refresh writing skills and learn how to write certain assignments, such as essays.

    An accelerated online college degree gives working adults an excellent option for earning an associate, bachelor鈥檚, or master鈥檚 degree while maintaining their current job. 杏吧原创 is fully accredited and a pioneer in online education. It offers more than 35 academic programs that can help working adults achieve their academic goals.

    Career Spotlight: Cardiac Nurse

    Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death among men and women in the United States. It鈥檚 no surprise then that we need healthcare professionals to care for patients affected by this disease and to promote heart health.

    Cardiac nurses provide care for patients needing care for cardiovascular conditions and diseases. They work with patients of all ages and in all demographics, helping them to improve their health and carry out treatment plans.

    If you think cardiovascular nursing is the field for you, read on to learn more about what nurses specializing in cardiac health do.

    What Does a Cardiac Nurse Do?

    Cardiac nurses work in a variety of healthcare settings, from hospitals and medical clinics to long-term care facilities. They collaborate with cardiologists and other members of the healthcare team, treating patients with coronary artery disease, stroke, heart failure, heart arrhythmia, heart valve disease, and other problems. They may also assist surgeons with heart surgery. Here are some other key duties of a cardiac nurse:

    • Administer medications to patients
    • Administer IV drips
    • Work with surgeons and physicians to provide post-surgery care
    • Observe patients鈥� heart activity, often with electrocardiograms
    • Administer medications and other treatments, like chest tubes
    • Assist with rehabilitation techniques to help a patient recover from cardiac illness or surgery
    • Provide education to patients and families so patients can maintain heart health
    Start growing your specialized nursing career with 杏吧原创鈥檚 BS in Nursing

    What Skills Do You Need to Become a Cardiac Nurse?

    Cardiac nurses must have knowledge about the human body but specifically about the human heart. They must have a variety of technical and transferrable skills. Here are a few of them:

    • Knowledge in patient care, acute care, advanced cardiac life support, catheterization laboratory, critical care nursing, pediatrics, cardiology, and other areas
    • Good communication skills
    • Ability to work in a team setting
    • Critical thinking ability
    • Good organization skills
    • Assertiveness
    • Time management skills
    • Good code of ethics
    • Compassion

    How to Become a Cardiac Nurse

    To become a cardiac nurse, candidates must be a registered nurse, and, according to NurseJournal, must have at least 3,000 hours of work experience in cardiovascular nursing and 30 hours of continuing education. Check out 杏吧原创鈥檚 nursing programs to get started on your nursing education so you can become a cardiac nurse.

    In addition, it is recommended that candidates receive certification in cardiac nursing from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, the American Board of Cardiovascular Medicine, or the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

    What Are the Benefits of Being a Cardiac Nurse?

    There are many benefits that come with becoming a cardiac nurse. For one, the field is always growing so you will always find a job. Many nurses build strong relationships with their patients, which makes the work fulfilling, and the potential to save lives in immediate danger can be rewarding. For example, resuscitating a patient from being in cardiac arrest and seeing them walk out of the hospital can be a gratifying experience.

    According to the Salary.com, the average salary for a cardiovascular nurse in the United States is $73,240, and the salary range typically falls between $68,905 and $78,142.

    If cardiovascular nursing sounds like the field you鈥檇 like to enter, talk to an counselor today and start on your educational path.

    How to Become a Copywriter

    Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

    You are driving and see a compelling billboard. It is a vacation rental company telling you to book that next vacation. You think about it a little more on your drive home and through the night. The next day, you book your vacation with the company from the billboard. A successful copywriter is behind this campaign.

    What Is a Copywriter?

    A copywriter is a type of writer who develops content for various types of media to promote the sale of a good or service. Copywriters are a key part of a successful marketing team.

    Copywriters write copy for:

  • Companies selling goods and services to other companies (B2B: business-to-business)
  • Companies selling their goods or services through a retail business (B2C: business-to-consumer)
  • Companies selling goods or services directly to consumers through a website (D2C: direct-to-consumer)

    • Originally, a copywriter鈥檚 writing appeared mainly in newspaper ads or in commercials for television or the radio. As the world evolved, so did copywriting. Today, copywriters continue to write for newspapers and commercials, but also for social media, magazines, online advertisements, billboards, paper ads, and more.

    Turn your way with words into a lasting career in marketing with a BS in Business.

    What Does a Copywriter Do?

    Copywriting job duties can vary from industry to industry, but at the end of the day the goal of a copywriter is to persuade consumers to buy a product or service the company they work for is selling. Copywriters are storytellers who work to create creative content about a particular product or service.

    The following responsibilities are included in most copywriter job postings:

  • Write copy for various media platforms and formats.
  • Research and create copy for different marketing campaigns.
  • Collaborate with members of the marketing team, including but not limited to, graphic designers, content strategists, social media specialists, and marketing managers.
  • Research and provide information on top industry competitors when it comes to website search trends, new products and services, consumer trends, and the industry at a whole.
  • Create a company鈥檚 brand voice.
  • Pitch your advertising plan to key stakeholders and clients.
  • Analyze campaign results and improvise when needed.

    • Copywriters are also responsible for constantly editing and rewriting copy. Key stakeholders and clients have many opinions, and it is the copywriter鈥檚 responsibility to rewrite and edit multiple drafts of copy until it is on target.

    Where Do Copywriters Work? Who Do They Work For?

    All companies who want to sell a product or service need copywriters to ensure the sale of their product or service. As a copywriter, you can work in any industry, including healthcare, education, technology, fashion, media, environmental science, tourism, fundraising, travel, and more. Really, any industry you can think of most likely has need for a copywriter.

    Copywriters tend to be employed by any of the following:

  • Freelance work: If you ever wanted to work for yourself, set your own hours, and work from the comfort of your own home, freelance copywriting might be the gig for you. Freelance copywriters work under contract or on a project basis. While this can be convenient and allow you to choose what type of projects you want to work on, the amount of work can vary, and as a result, so can your income. It is important to create a large client pool, and a backup plan to make sure you have a steady income.
  • In-house marketing teams: You work directly for a company’s marketing team, creating marketing strategies and writing copy for its marketing campaigns and advertisements. Unlike freelance copywriting, you work on campaigns related only to the business. As marketing grows and becomes a necessity, many companies create in-house marketing teams instead of outsourcing for this need.
  • Advertising or marketing agency: As a copywriter for an advertising or marketing agency, you work with multiple clients at one time, writing copy for all. Companies hire you to support their marketing initiatives.

    • What Skills Are Needed to Become a Copywriter?

    To be a copywriter, you must have excellent writing skills and be creative! You will often be working with other members of the marketing team to brainstorm new ways to inspire consumers to purchase the product or service.

    Check out the top skills recruiters are looking for in copywriters:

  • Creativity: You must be able to develop new strategies and ideas.
  • Persuasion: Copywriters need to be able to convince others to feel a certain way about a good or service.
  • Adaptability: You must be able to adapt and change your concepts to fit the goals of key stakeholders and clients.
  • Writing skills: Copywriters must write clearly and concisely to communicate effectively with their audience.

    • What Requirements and Education Are Needed to Become a Copywriter?

    Copywriters typically need a bachelor鈥檚 degree in writing, marketing, communications, business, or a related field. You should build a portfolio of recent work, whether that is blog posts, advertisements, short stories, etc. Recruiters tend to find these helpful in the interview process to see if your writing style and skills match the company. A bachelor鈥檚 degree in business from 杏吧原创 combined with work experience will help prepare you for a career as a copywriter.

    Career Spotlight: Compliance Manager

    Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

    Job opportunities in compliance within all organizations are on the rise. Legal departments across the world are trying to work through new and constantly evolving government regulations. This is especially true in the cannabis industry. If you are detail-oriented, love research and data, and consider yourself a strong leader, then a compliance manager might be the right job for you!

    What Does a Compliance Manager Do?

    Compliance managers need to stay up to date with new laws and regulations to ensure that the organization they are working for is compliant. Job responsibilities and duties vary depending on the industry, however most positions include the following responsibilities:

  • Implement and manage an effective legal compliance program.
  • Advise management on compliance laws and regulations.
  • Develop and review company policies.
  • Audit company procedures, practices, and documents, and manage effective response plans to these discoveries.
  • Educate all employees on the rules and regulations.
  • Create new processes to ensure the company is compliant.

    • It is also the compliance manager鈥檚 responsibility to resolve any employee concerns about legal issues. Many compliance managers are also part of the legal or human resources team at the organization.

    The Importance of Compliance Managers in the Cannabis Industry

    The cannabis industry is new and evolving, therefore a compliance manager is necessary to ensure a successful and legal business. With the constant changes, it is important to have a dedicated person or team to manage all the legal aspects of the business. Some examples of what a compliance manager might be responsible for in the cannabis industry include:

  • Legal responsibilities on how to grow cannabis
  • Creating a tracking system that is compliant
  • Packaging supplies and materials, including information that must be on the label
  • Lab testing

    • These are only a couple of things that a compliance manager is responsible for, and can change depending on what state or county you are working in. Earning a graduate certificate in cannabis control will help you get started as a compliance manager in the cannabis industry.

    How to Become a Compliance Manager

    Compliance manager positions require at least a bachelor鈥檚 degree in law, finance, business management, or a related field. While education is important and necessary for this type of role, hiring managers also look for these common traits and qualifications from candidates:

  • Leadership experience. Compliance managers lead a team of analysts, as well as consultants and other specialists. It is imperative for compliance managers to show strong leadership skills, backed by proven experience highlighted on a resume.
  • Strong communication skills. As a compliance manager you work with many different individuals. The ability to explain legal jargon to people who may not be as experienced as you is important for this role, as well as for the leadership team. You are responsible for communicating information to employees in a clear, concise way that makes sense to everyone involved. This can be in written communications, as well as in public speaking
  • Demonstrate integrity. It is critical to have a strong moral compass and be able to make ethical decisions. You are responsible for directing analysts, compliance specialists, and other junior level staff members on how to make sound decisions.
  • Knowledge of laws and regulations. Just like any other job, you must be an expert in your field. A compliance manager’s field is rules, regulations, and laws within the industry. You must have a deep understanding of laws and regulations, and must be aware of updates.
  • Strong team player. As a compliance manager you may lead a team of your own, and work with a bigger team within the organization. A successful compliance manager is patient and works well with other members of the team. For instance, the ability to work with team members who do not have the knowledge of the laws and regulations is of the utmost importance.

    • Many compliance managers start off in an entry level role within the compliance office as an analyst, specialist, or coordinator. This experience, combined with your education, is a great starting point to get to a compliance manager position. While it is not a requirement for all candidates to obtain a graduate degree in business administration, public policy, or a related field, a degree can boost your knowledge and preparedness. To get started, check out 杏吧原创鈥檚 bachelor鈥檚 in business degrees.