A chiropractor is a doctor who specializes in musculoskeletal and nervous system problems. It is the belief of the chiropractic community that problems in these areas can cause adverse health issues for the individual including lowered resistance to disease, illness and injury. Chiropractors manipulate the spine to realign spinal joints in their patients. By doing so, patients are expected to experience increased health without the assistance of drugs or surgery. Instead, chiropractors expect the boy will heal itself once the spine and spinal joints are in proper alignment. Additionally, chiropractors consider and address other lifestyle factors which are commonly recognized as significantly affecting health such as diet, rest, exercise, heredity and environmental factors; offering recommendations for changes which are expected to improve the patients overall health.

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Chiropractors perform many of the same tasks as other general and specialty doctors. Patient health histories are gathered, physical, neurological and orthopedic examinations are performed and various laboratory tests, x-rays and diagnostic imaging tools are used to diagnose and analyze the patient’s condition. Other forms of treatment may be used or recommended by the chiropractor including ultrasound, massage, heat, water, acupuncture or electric currents. Prescription drugs and surgery are not part of the services provided by chiropractors. Chiropractors may recommend patients to see other doctors or specialists to address health issues or concerns outside of their area of expertise. Some chiropractors choose to specialize in a certain type of practice. Areas of practice may include orthopedics, neurology, sports injuries, internal disorders, diagnostic imaging or pediatrics.

The Department of Labor predicts an expected job growth increase of 20 percent in the chiropractic field over the next 8 years. Though there appears to to be some naysayers who are in disagreement; individuals who claim the chiropractic profession may be experiencing a substantial decline in patients, the information provided by the Department of Labor and trends in public opinion support the statistics. The increasing public interest in alternative health care methods is beneficial to the chiropractic field. The public is seeking healthy living options which do not include prescription medicines or surgery; instead a substantial number of people are searching for solutions which emphasize healthy lifestyles. The non-invasive procedures provided by chiropractors in answer to their patients health issues and concerns appeals to the segment of the public looking for these types of answers.

High School

High school students interested in pursuing a career as a chiropractor will need to attend college. Students should prepare for the vigorous college curriculum by completing the college preparatory curriculum. The curriculum for this program ensures students complete the courses the colleges require of their admission applicants and that students will be equipped with the skills and knowledge for successful completion of college course. Students will be expected to complete three to four years of courses in English, mathematics, sciences and social studies. Additionally, two years of a language must be completed. Electives in computers will provide instruction in the basic principles of computer use to ensure students are proficient with the utilization of the most prevalent and commonly used software programs. Business courses offer students essential information concerning employment in the business world. These types of courses are useful for future professionals in nearly every industry. An understanding of the underlying principles of business prepares students to respond and work within the accepted guidelines of the business world.

There are a range of activities offered at schools and in the communities for the benefit of high school students. Participation in extra curricular school activities unrelated to the student’s future profession are still beneficial. Students learn time management skills, responsibility, collaborative and leadership skills when participating in school clubs and organizations. Colleges are also more apt to accept a student who demonstrates a strong commitment to the school community through active participation as opposed to an individual whose only contribution is attendance and good academic performance. Community organizations offer unique and varied experiences and the opportunity to interact with professionals and develop networking skills. After school and summer employment at a chiropractic office, a medical office or any other office environment will provide exposure to the type of setting in which chiropractic professionals will spend their working hours.

College

Select a college which offers a strong science degree or pre-medical degree program. Some colleges may have an affiliation with the chiropractic colleges which all future chiropractors must attend and successfully complete. Research the chiropractic schools to determine which one you are most interested in attending. Then you will be able to determine if the school is linked to any of the colleges you are considering. Courses in biology, chemistry and physics will be important to individuals intending to work in a medical field. Electives can be concentrated in health, fitness and nutrition. Students can, and even should, study topics and courses related to kinesiology and sports medicine. Courses in psychology and sociology will help students to attain a more comprehensive understanding of people and society, better equipping them to serve the public. Business courses ensure future professionals understand how to successfully manage a business in the complex health field. Medical professionals will need to understand finances, the intricacies of medical insurance processing, business laws, business practices, business ethics and the importance of maintaining records.

Chiropractic School

Students must attend chiropractic college in order to enter the profession. Upon completion of the program, students will have earned a Doctorate in Chiropractic Medicine. The Council on Chiropractic Education, or CCE, is the nationally recognized accrediting agency by the United States Secretary of Education which regulates the quality of the curriculum offered at chiropractic colleges. Currently there are 15 CCE accredited chiropractic institutions in the United States with 18 locations. These include, as listed on the CCE website:

• Cleveland Chiropractic College
       1.  Cleveland Chiropractic College – Kansas City – Overland Park, KS
       2.  Cleveland Chiropractic College – Los Angeles – Los Angeles, CA
• D’Youville College Doctor of Chiropractic - Buffalo, NY
• Life University College of Chiropractic – Marietta, GA
• Life Chiropractic College West – Hayward, CA
• Logan College of Chiropractic – Chesterfield, MO
• Southern California University of Health Sciences
• Los Angeles College of Chiropractic  – Whittier, CA
• Doctor of Chiropractic Degree Program in the College of
  Professional Studies of the National  University of Health
  Sciences – Lombard, IL
• New York Chiropractic College – Seneca Falls, NY
• Northwestern Health Sciences University
  Northwestern College of Chiropractic - Bloomington, MN
• Palmer College of Chiropractic
       1. Palmer College of Chiropractic – Davenport, IA
       2. Palmer College of Chiropractic West – San Jose, CA
       3. Palmer College of Chiropractic Florida – Port Orange, FL
• Parker College Of Chiropractic – Dallas, TX
• Sherman College Of Chiropractic – Spartanburg, SC
• Texas Chiropractic College – Pasadena, TX
• University Of Bridgeport College Of Chiropractic – Bridgeport, CT
• University of Western States College of Chiropractic – Portland, OR

Students attend chiropractic college for four years. The students are taught the scientific and academic skills and knowledge required to become experts in the field of chiropractic medicine. The final year is spent in practice; performing the functions of a chiropractic doctor under the supervision of an experienced professional. The curriculum includes intensive study of the neuromusculoskeletal conditions, nutritional and holistic health, and specialized and focused curriculum in areas of acupuncture and oriental medicine, applied nutrition, and various other disciplines. Students will complete subtantial course hours in diagnosis, biochemistry, anatomy, chiropractic technique and philosophy and ancillary therapeutic procedures.

National Board Exam

The National Board Exam for chiropractors is administered by the NBCE. The test is given twice each year. The exam is three parts. Part 1 is 110 multiple choice questions relating to general anatomy, spinal anatomy, physiology, chemistry, pathology, microbiology and public health. The second part consists also of 110 multiple choice questions; but in the areas of general diagnosis, neuromusculoskeletal diagnosis, diagnostic imaging, principles of chiropractic, chiropractic practice and associated clinical sciences. Part three of the test consists of 110 multiple choice questions and ten case vignettes covering the ares of diagnosis or clinical impression, clinical laboratory and special studies examination, chiropractic techniques, case management, physical examination, case history and roentgenologic examination. Each part is timed. Additional specialized testing is offered for applicants who want to pursue an area of specialization.

Licensing

After succesfull completion of an accredited chiropractic program, graduates will need to obtain a license to practice in their resident state or the state in which they intend to practice. State licensure regulations may vary from state to state. It is important to research the state regulations prior to completion of the Doctor of Chiropractic program to ensure all conditions are met. The Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards is a nonprofit organziation which provides a link to the licensure information in all states. Locate the link and the information for each state at this directory.

The information provided includes the licensing fees, the renewal requirement, national board testing requirements, the security and criminal check requirements, additinoal certification requirements, continuing education and malpractice insurance requirements. The link to the state licensing board is also provided.

Continuing Education

The chiropractic field will experience advancements in technology and knowledge through research and academic exploration. Changing regulations will also be an area in which chiropractic doctors will need to remain current. Each state will have their own continuing education requirements upon which licensing will be contingent. Twenty four credit hours of continuing education every two years is a common requirement. The programs must be board approved and conducted by approved colleges or chiropractic association or organizations. Check with your state licensing board to determine if the program has been approved prior to enrollment.

Careers in the culinary arts field are exciting, dynamic and sometimes even prestigious. And with the emergence of the charismatic television cooking personalities over the last several years, culinary arts careers have become increasingly popular. The culinary arts field can be exceedingly enjoyable for those who choose the profession. Professionals in the field employ their creativity experimenting with food, learning to create tantalizing food dishes and developing unique recipes. However professionals in the field are also charged with serious responsibilities. The responsibilities associated with the culinary arts can be immense; especially for individuals holding higher level positions. All individuals charged with the responsibility of food preparation must maintain the highest level of cleanliness. This is necessary to ensure food doesn’t become tainted. And these professionals must adhere to the strict food preparation regulations to limit the potential for consumer illness. Additional responsibilities may include planning menus, determining food serving sizes and ordering supplies. Those in supervisory positions may also be charged with overseeing food preparation and presentation.

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The field of Culinary Arts offers extensive career opportunities in an exciting and challenging profession. Individuals interested in careers in the culinary arts have substantial and varied opportunities. These individuals can choose to work in any food service facility including restaurant settings, resorts, cruise ships, hotels, cafeterias and bakeries or can work as private chefs/cooks, as caterers, as consultants or managers. Employment opportunities are not geographically limited; positions in culinary arts can be obtained in nearly every region of the country and around the globe. The positions available to professionals in the culinary arts field are nearly as wide-ranging as the employment settings. Industry professionals can obtain positions as head cooks, souse chefs, sub chefs, executive chefs, chefs de cuisine, cafeteria chefs or short order cooks. These individuals can specialize in certain types of cuisine or food preparation; pastry items, vegetables, Italian, French. The possibilities in the culinary arts field for interested individuals are endless.

Though the employment opportunities may be limitless, securing an available opening may still be challenging. The competition for positions in the culinary arts fields is significant; especially those of higher standings or distinction. The Department of Labor reports that job growth in the culinary arts field is expected to increase by only six percent, which is much slower than the average for other occupations. However, the job turnover rates are extremely high for this field; compensating for the slow job growth and resulting in good job prospects for those intending to pursue employment in the field. The high turn-over rates are a direct result of the immense demands of the job. Individuals responsible for food preparation work long hours in a regularly stressful environment. This is especially true for employees possessing higher level positions such as head chefs. Restaurant chains and various fast food service facilities employ the majority of professionals in the field. Available positions at higher class restaurant facilities are expected to rise. The increasing demand by the public for healthier menu choices and home made meals will translate into more exciting and varied employment opportunities for culinary arts specialists.

High School

Individuals who choose a career in culinary arts will need a high school education. Culinary arts requires a proficiency in mathematics, an understanding of basic business concepts, effective written and verbal communication skills and an ability to understand the laws and regulations by which they will be expected to abide. Computers have become an integral tool in restaurants. As such, individuals expecting to attain employment in the industry will be required to be proficient in their use. The high School courses requisite for graduation will ensure students receive training in all of these areas. Students acquire essential foundational skills which are necessary for successful employment in every professional field; problem solving, analytical and critical thinking and ethical standards of conduct.

Technical high schools often offer programs in the culinary arts. The curriculum will include the general high school courses required of all students such as English, social studies, science and mathematics. Students may also complete courses in statistics, economics, physical education and foreign language. But in addition to the general studies, students receive focused, comprehensive training in the field. Students learn the basics of cooking and food technology, menu planning, nutrition, purchasing, food regulations, kitchen and dining room operations, portion control, procurement, costing and pricing, food and beverage control and the many other tasks associated with the field. The general curriculum can be tailored to suit the educational goals of the student; either following a college preparatory or a general studies path.

Advancement in the culinary arts field is contingent on experience. Though formal schooling teaches the skills and knowledge necessary to understand the concepts and theories behind the culinary arts, it is from practical experience that professionals gain an expertise in the practice of the field. Obtaining an after school or summer job at a restaurant or food service facility will provide experience upon which the individual can build. Becoming familiar with the working environment, common problems and procedures and customer expectations will provide invaluable insight into the industry. Most restaurants require some experience prior to offering a position of substance. This experience can be obtained early, paving the way for more substantial employment offers earlier in the individual’s career. Even though the position in which you will be employed is likely to be unrelated to cooking as most individuals begin as wait staff, table bussers or dishwashers, the experience will still be beneficial.

The national non profit organization known as Careers through the Culinary Arts Program or C-CAP provides a range of opportunities and services to public high schools in seven locations across the country. Founded by a cookbook author whose original intentions was to share the pleasure of cooking with students in inner city schools, the organization veered in a different direction when the founder discovered the necessity of providing job training and skills to students who wouldn’t have the option to attend college. The organization provides a curriculum enrichment program; offering teacher training and supplies and equipment for the classrooms. The program provides underserved high school students with job training and internship opportunities, cooking competition opportunities, scholarships, college advising and various other services to ready students for a career in the restaurant and hospitality industry. Students who attend schools in one of the host locations in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, Virginia, Washington D.C and Arizona have the opportunity to take advantage of the program.

Culinary School

There are a range of factors to consider when determining which school to attend. One of the first to consider is whether to attend a cooking school, culinary school or culinary arts school. The location of the school can impact the experience. Schools located closer to big cities will offer the advantage of proximity to top fine dining establishments. The experience and expertise of the faculty will directly affect the quality of your education and training. The instructors often specialize in a specific aspect which will be beneficial to students interested in pursuing that concentration. The tuition costs can vary substantially also. Most culinary schools are very costly to attend. Many schools do offer financial aid and assistance. It is important to consider your financial needs when determining which culinary or cooking institute to attend. Accreditation is always a principal concern as it ensures the quality of the curriculum. The most common agencies to grant accreditation to the schools include the American Culinary Federation, Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology, New England Association of Schools and Colleges, International Council on Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Education.

Culinary school programs can vary greatly in the type of content taught and the length of the program. The school may specialize in one certain type of cooking or culinary arts or several genres. Some schools may offer only associate degree programs or also offer the bachelor degree program. Program lengths could range from several months up to five years time. The career goals of the individual should be evaluated prior to choosing which length program to complete. The bachelor programs prepare students for careers in upper level and management positions while an associate degree provides sufficient preparation for entry level positions. Bachelor degree programs in culinary arts can take as little as three years to complete. Advanced graduate study and certificate programs are also offered.

Schedule flexibility and curriculum structure should also be considered. Some schools require their students to adhere to a strict, rigorous course load while others permit students to tailor their schedules to suit their needs. The type and focus of instruction also varies based on the school. Some schools place more emphasis on theory while others stress practical hands on experience. Some schools even have an on campus restaurant where students obtain experience while others may have an affiliation with an outside restaurant where students are required to work to gain experience. Class size and career placement are other factors which should be evaluated. Larger class sizes provide increased opportunity to learn from other individuals. Smaller class sizes will ensure more focused attention from the instructors. Career placement services are an important resource when trying to attain employment. A culinary school with more affiliations and connections to the food service industry will be better equipped to offer job placement assurances to its graduates.

Apprenticeship Programs and Internships

Apprenticeship programs offered by the American Culinary Federation are often as readily accepted by employers as a degree. Many of the apprenticeship programs are private programs offered by hotels or various other organizations which prefer to train their own chefs and cooks. The private training opportunities, however, train the individuals in the techniques and preferences of that particular company. Formal apprenticeship programs are generally sponsored by a trade union or industry association. Some may be affiliated with one of the culinary institutes. A few of the programs are sponsored by the America Culinary Federation. The programs with ACF approval are guaranteed to fulfill the training requirements necessary to obtain a position in the industry. These programs are three years in duration and include both practical training and class work. The instruction includes basic fundamental cooking skills, food preparation instruction, food handling and cleanliness, proper methods of performing various preparatory tasks as well as more advanced training and culinary instruction.

Experience is an integral building block in the culinary industry. Individuals with the most experience are the first considered for upper level positions and promotions. Those with experience from internships at highly regarded dining facilities are held in higher esteem. But even before advancement becomes the concern, experience is a requisite for graduation from most cooking and culinary institutes and for entry level positions in the field. Internships are the process by which the experience requirement is satisfied. Most culinary and cooking schools are affiliated with outside restaurants and dining establishments specifically for the purpose of providing their students with internship opportunities. The training usually correlates with and complements the academic and practical training at the institute. Internships also offer a preview of the hectic work environment, the demanding schedules and the regimented procedures by which every food worker must abide to ensure all are adhering to the health regulations.

Certifications

Completing a culinary arts or cooking school degree program or a sponsored apprenticeship program doesn’t necessarily mark the end of the educational experience for practicing chefs and cooks. The culinary field is remarkably diverse. Individuals trained in the field have the opportunity to pursue concentrations within the culinary arts fields. Certificate programs are offered at a number of the culinary institutes and by the American Culinary Federation. A general certification can be earned as well as 14 additional certification designations. Though certification is not a requirement to work in the industry, obtaining the certification serves as evidence of the competence and skill level of the individual.

Applicants must meet the educational and work experience requirements before certification can be considered. The applicant is also required to complete 30 hours of courses in food safety and sanitation, nutrition and culinary supervisory management. After the applicant is deemed qualified, they must take the exam. The total cost of certification depends on whether the individual is a member of the ACF but can amount to a maximum of $475.00. The certification must be renewed every five years unless the individual had attained a lifetime certification. The designated certifications can be attained in various categories including cooking professionals, personal cooking professionals, baking and pastry professionals, culinary administrators and culinary educators. You can go to the website to obtain more information: ACF Chefs

Working in the movie or television industries doesn’t necessarily demand interested individuals must be actors or directors. There are a multitude of other essential positions which must be filled by qualified professionals in order to complete filming the projects. One such position of utmost importance is the camera operator. Camera operators capture the stories told by the actors. Camera operators must use an array of camera techniques and editing skills to produce images which convey the story as it is intended to be chronicled. This is accomplished through the compilation of numerous camera shots; taken at different angles, in various lighting. A camera operator must be creative, technically skilled and capable of maintaining a steady hand to ensure images are not overshadowed by unnatural movements.

Camera operators are employed in numerous capacities. The television and movie industries require the services of professional camera operators. Camera operators may shoot news and sporting events, documentaries, television series, studio programs, even music videos. A camera operator may specialize in any of these areas; developing an expertise which will be in demand by those seeking skilled and knowledgeable professionals. Cinematographers, or movie camera operators can specialize in certain types of films; cartoons, claymation or special effects. These individuals will need to know the various methods and techniques used to communicate the scene as it is intended to be relayed including mounted still scene shots, track shots and varying angles. The profession isn’t limited to only the commercial industries. Camera operators are also used to shoot private events and ceremonies.

The demand for camera operators and editors will not be as great as the number of individuals seeking employment in the field. Significant competition should be expected by anyone intending to seek professional employment as a camera operator. Even though the expectation is that the competition will be fierce, there is job growth projected in the field. The United States Department of Labor reports that the rate of employment will grow by 11 percent, about the average rate for all occupations. Some of the growth is being attributed to the internet revolution. An increasing number of start up and established organizations are broadcasting films made specifically for the purpose of internet broadcasting. This new aspect of the industry is expected to make up for the slowing rate of positions for camera operators in television broadcasting.

High School

Preparing for a career as a camera operator begins in high school. High school equips students with the foundational skills necessary to be successful in future employment, especially professional and technical positions. Students will develop skills in problem solving, analytical and critical thinking and communication. Completing courses in the basic subjects of mathematics, science, social studies and English will satisfy the admission requirements prescribed by colleges and ensure students are knowledgeable in the principal subjects needed to develop a more complex understanding of the professional world. Additionally, colleges require students to complete two years in a foreign language, at least one year in music or arts, technology and computer. The college preparatory curriculum incorporates all of the courses required by colleges to be considered for admission.

Most high schools have developed an affiliation with a technical high school. The technical high schools offer trade specific curriculum. The curriculum focuses on teaching the career skills associated with the profession through academic study of theory and extensive hands on practical application. Students learn the basics of camera operations, computer technology, various processes and techniques involved with videography and camera use. Early training in these skills will enable students to develop an inherent understanding of the practices; allowing them to concentrate on the creative and artistic aspects of the industry instead of the nuts and bolts of the field. It is important to make sure, prior to deciding on and committing to a technical high school education, the school’s curriculum encompasses all of the college admission requirements. Otherwise, a student who intends to attend college after high school may find they are unable to gain admittance.

All high schools offer opportunities to participate in a number of extra curricular activities. Students should consider joining any type of audio-video club. Participate in creating the school’s electronic year book. If the high school isn’t creating one, suggest an electronic year book to the administration. Computer clubs, school newspapers and photography clubs also help develop skills which are useful for someone entering a field in video production. Colleges have a predilection for students who contribute in more than an academic capacity to their school. These activities also offer benefits in terms of experience. Students develop collaborative and leadership abilities through the various organizations, clubs and activities. After school and summer employment can be obtained at local television stations. Many of the stations offer unpaid internship opportunities to promising students.

College/ Technical School

Technical schools will teach many of the professional and specialized skills associated with the industry, but many may not offer additional training in the general skills relevant to all professions. And though associate degrees are a great beginning, and sometimes enough to attain an entry level, the program doesn’t allow sufficient time to cover the amount of information and material that the bachelor degree program does. Most employers require prospective applicants to have earned a bachelor degree. Bachelor degree programs provide a general education curriculum in addition to career concentration courses; enriching the cognitive and practical abilities of the graduates. Students enrolled in bachelor degree programs have the opportunity to select elective courses with relevance to their intended profession. Film students would benefit from courses in business and art; as both are integral aspects of the industry. Computer training will help develop technical skills essential to the film industry. Students will need to be familiar with and proficient using the most popular and prevalent software programs and tools.

Capturing a story on film is not as simple as pressing record on the camera. Students will require training in the various aspects of camera operation and specialized study in certain areas of concentration including journalism, film and photography. Students should seriously consider choosing a college which specializes in film production as a major. There are a number of institutions of higher learning from which an aspiring camera operator can choose which are labeled as film schools.A film school will be exceedingly familiar with the subject areas germane and pertinent to a camera operator’s functions and will emphasize studies in these disciplines. A college which doesn’t specialize in film will still provide a quality general education but may only skim over the other areas of significance. The additional training will ensure graduates of the film program will be versed in all aspects of the industry, not just the most prevalent areas. In addition to the technological areas, camera operators will need to be trained in the creative arts. Creative art training ensures individuals will be knowledgeable in the artistic principles and ensure they sufficiently develop the skills.

Professional Portfolio and Internships

As is true for the majority of the creative arts fields, a camera operator should create a professional portfolio of work to present to prospective employers. Employers prefer to hire individuals of who they are confident will be able to provide the high level of work and professional standards expected. A professional portfolio provides evidence of the level of work of which the job candidate is capable. It is important to only include completed projects and only those which best represent the highest quality of work of which you are capable. If you have an area of specialization, highlight it within the portfolio by dedicating the majority of the portfolio to those projects within that area. Include in the portfolio as many projects as possible so that the employer will feel confident that you are able to consistently provide high quality work. It will also assure the employer that you are capable of developing and implementing a vast spectrum of projects.

Internships are an important part of the learning process for camera operators. Camera operators will need to experiment with and attain experience with using the various pieces of equipment associated with the profession. An individual will not be able to develop a proficiency and eventually an expertise in the field without hands on, practical experience. Internships provide the opportunity to do both. Individuals will learn from watching professionals and from the instruction they will receive from the same professionals. Spending time in the environment will familiarize and prepare future camera operators for the type of stress associated with the field. Individuals will learn to cope with and solve common issues that arise. The networking connections gained from internships also prove invaluable once the camera operator enters the field as a professional.

Employment

Camera operators may discover finding employment can be difficult. Entry level positions may be difficult to find with so many people vying for the same opening. Taking a job as an assistant may be an effective way to get a foot into the door of a company or just to attain some experience, exposure or develop network connections. Some camera operators do try self employment, working on a contractual basis or filming projects or events for various clients. The National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians is a union which supports camera operators and offers some assistance with obtaining employment. Check their website to determine if becoming a member of the union would be beneficial and how they would be able to assist. http://www.nabetcwa.org/

Continuing Education

The film industry is as subject to advancements in technology and techniques as any other industry. Taking continuing education courses at local colleges and trade schools will help professionals in the field remain abreast of changes and advancements. Completing these courses will ensure you remain competitive in the field and are able to provide the best possible service. It will also augment your professional resume. Continuing education can come from other sources as well. Check with the college where you obtain your degree to find out if they offer professional certification courses and continuing education opportunities. Some schools offer their graduates life long learning courses without tuition costs. Professional magazines and journals provide invaluable information. Seminars, lectures and workshops are other methods of obtaining continuing education information.

Do celebrities influence your college selection choice? I am sure they do if they are athletes. I can imagine an athlete may want to follow in the footsteps of an idol. But what about normal folks. Do we attend the school that our fathers attended because we look up to them, or do we come to our own conclusion?

Let your financial aid officer know what your specific situation is. If it’s changed significantly, you may be eligible for more aid than you were in the past. A drastic loss of income in the family can change your eligibility for financial aid.

One thing I would strongly recommend is setting up a secondary savings fund for misc. college expenses that before you were not saving for. Such things as food,and other expenses that maybe you werent planning on setting aside. With the rising cost of college and economic hard times it can never be enough to set aside additional savings.

You can also use services like BillShrink, a service that will help you save money on common things like cell phone plans. Take the money you save from Bill Shrink and push it into a savings account for future expenses and you will be much better prepared for educational expenses in the future.

Unigo appears to combing social networking, with the college selection process, including search, and user generated reviews. It looks like it could be a pretty helpful site if it gains transaction by college students and high schoolers alike.

Unigo is a new platform for college students to share reviews, photos, videos, documents, and more with students on their campus and across the country.

It’s also the best place for high school students to find out what life is really like at America’s colleges, and to make friends to help them find the school that’s right for them.

Unigo is the result of a nationwide grassroots movement to get the truth out about college life, and it’s growing bigger every day. Want to join?

I personally would have thrown in a PSP, as these things are wicked cool and can be snuck into boring lectures to occupy your time.

It’s quite common these days for people to “live blog” or “live Twitter” different conferences or events they’re attending, filling in others what’s happening in near real time. However, what happens when someone does that in a college class? Already, there are some professors struggling with the fact that students use the internet during class, but they’re not at all happy about the idea that they might not just be using the internet to surf around — but to report to others what’s happening inside the classroom. The issue is discussed in detail by Mark Glaser in his latest MediaShift column after an NYU professor told her students to stop blogging or Twittering things about her class.

Personally I am in favor of liveblogging class discussions to bring a collective discussion offline to what the professor has to say. If teachers aren´t into this i would say lets find some new professors.