College Being

Like many of you, I love learning and reading. But doing my college homework is another story.

Don’t get me wrong, I always finish my paper on time. But it’s not my vibe [Writing homework can drag you].

I mean, back when I was in college, I had to watch ‘How High’ over and again to skip doing my assignment.

Damn… I wish there is a way to kill that thing; the homework.

Anyway, homework will be part of your life. Did I say life? I meant it. Even after college you will find yourself with homework. Not the best thing that can happen to you, but you must find a way of dealing with it.

So I thought, why not show you how to deal with it fast. I find myself rushing to finish mine the last minute.

Here is how you finish your college homework fast:

Take a deep breath

I am serious! You have 2 hours to finish the college homework. What good can you do to yourself than taking a deep breath? Of course you don’t have time to meditate.

It helps you to think well since it makes your mind prepared and ready. Hey…don’t take 20 minutes to inhale. Only 2 minutes. When you take a deep breath, it also removes the fear in you. It feels nervous when the clock is ticking and the assignment is due.

Heat some coffee.

Coffee is the secret weapon for concentration. If you want to finish that homework fast, you have to concentrate. So you need a cup of coffee.

Scientists have proofed that coffee is the most preferred performance booster. Besides, it is known to boost the memory. Ooh I would love to do that assignment off my head. You know…like the genius with an IQ of 160.

Close your room

You want to write that college homework without disturbance, right? Close the door and switch off your phone.

I know it hurts to see your phone off, but it’s the only way. You have 1 hour and few minutes remaining remember?

So you have to keep off distractions.

Divide your homework

I will use an example so that it is easy for you to understand. Click to continue reading…

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College is filled with choices, and one of the most important of these choices in the realm of academics is deciding once and for all which field you will decide to specialize in. Many students know from the very get go what their major will be, some have absolutely no idea, but the majority have a vague notion of their specialization until they begin taking introductory classes and realize they got it all wrong. If the deadline for your major is looming, or even if you are just beginning school and want to have plan for your major, here are a few guidelines.

1. Don’t place too much importance on others’ opinion. It’s your education.

When I was in college, I knew many students who, when asked why they were electing a certain major, responded, “Because my parents want me to.” Of course, your friends and family only want what is best for you. At the same time, however, it’s you who will be taking classes, not your parents nor your friends. Getting advice from those who know you well is definitely a good idea, but remember that the choice ultimately falls on your shoulders.

2. Balance practicality and passion.

Each of us has different interests and passions, and when you are first beginning college, you probably aren’t really focusing on your future career. On the other hand, some students are so enamored by the idea of becoming a doctor that they decide to major in biology even though they hate science. When deciding on your major, it’s also important to factor in both your level of interest in a certain subject as well as an understanding of your future career goals and how they may be met by studying a specific subject.

3. Take a variety of classes your first year. Don’t rule out anything before you’ve had a taste.

Your first year of college brings with it many new experiences, if you keep your mind open. Since most schools don’t require their students to select a major until their sophomore year or later, take advantage of the opportunity to explore different subjects. Even if you didn’t particularly enjoy English class in high school, take a shot at some literature courses. Even if you have no idea what geology even entails, sign up for a class and find out! You’ll never know where your true interests and talents lie until you’ve sampled what’s out there.

4. Be honest with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses.

There are many things in this world that we would like to do, but we can’t always do all of them. Even if you like the idea of majoring in economics, if you are terrible at math, it will be constant uphill struggle selecting which isn’t your strong suit. When selecting a major, look at yourself honestly and pick something that you are truly good at.

As noted earlier, don’t take anyone’s advice—even mine—too seriously. Even if you aren’t happy with the major you eventually pick, remember that getting good grades is more important than your choice of major for future success.

This is a guest post by Kimberly Wilson from AccreditedOnlineColleges.org.

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College is a rewarding experience which can also cost a lot of cash. Understanding how to make the most value out of your time in school involves understanding the financial aid available, the importance of employment, and the ways to most appropriate regard your taxes.

The value of financial aid: Pell Grants and Stafford Loans

Financial aid is what makes higher education possible for most students. There is a wealth of information and privately funded programs which make tuition far more affordable. The government also helps out in the form of public Pell grants and other sponsored loans.

For those who meet financial necessity, the Pell Grant is a blessing. The highest award is $5,500 annually. The amount a student actually receives varies based on: cost of attendance (COA) for the particular school (COA is calculated using tuition and other living expenses,) expected family contribution (EFC), full or part time enrollment status, and length of program.

Not every student will meet the low-income requirements necessary to qualify for the Pell grant, however loans are a second option, although financial need remains a factor for qualifying for Direct Subsidized Loans, the amount of which is determined by your school. Subsidized loans don’t accrue interest until the student drops below half-time enrollment or after the grace-period following graduation.

The value of employment

A part time job can be crucial for those trying to stay out of debt. Although most part-time employment doesn’t resemble the careers for which you’re in school, there is a wealth of experience to be had in even the most entry-level of positions.

For gaining experience, work-study programs and internships are invaluable. Work-study positions are typically close to campus for the vehicular-challenged. Although internships are famous for being paid positions, some still offer stipend and parlay into more lucrative potential for future employment.

The value of filing taxes

Filing taxes correctly is a skill that should be sharpened while in school. Allocating proper credits and deductions will ensure the largest return possible.

Filing Methods

The computer has changed the financial landscape and several tax companies as well as the IRS offer free or inexpensive methods for submitting tax returns online. The copy of your filed return is retained as a .PDF file which makes filling out the FAFSA for the following year easier. However, ensure that the file remains secure, as should all digital archiving of private data, especially those which are related to your finances.

Pen and paper, there is always the old-fashioned way. Pen, paper, and a calculator―a nice date with your receipts and tax codes. The best option for old souls or those careless with sharing information, W-2 and tax returns must be postmarked by the appropriate date.

For the tech-gurus, new options are being developed for filing via your hone. The app store already hosts several apps which feature various levels of filing. Some of the fancier apps can take a captured image of your W-2 and transmit it to the forms online.

Credits and deductions

The main difference between education credits and deductions involves the ways it reduces your tax bill. Credits reduce the amount of taxes owed where deductions reduce the income which is actually reported.

The American Opportunity Tax Credit is a temporary tax credit which runs until 2012. Worth up to $2,500, the income cap is placed at $80,000 for individuals ($160,000 for joint filers) and can be used by parents of dependent children. The amount is based on the first $2,000 and supplemented by 25% of the next $2,000 spent on qualified tuition and related materials.

The Lifetime Learning Credit is for those who gross less than $48,000 annually ($96,000 for joint filers) and can be factored into a return for up to $2,000. The amount is derived from the first $10,000 in qualified expenses.

The Tuition and Fees Deduction can subtract up to $4,000 from taxable income and can be taken in lieu of the education credits listed above. The deduction is applicable for single filers who earn less than $80,000 and married filers who earn less than a combined $160,000. Parents of dependent students who meet the requirements can file.

Author Bio: Katei Cranford is a recent UNCG grad aimed at helping students understand the financial side of college life, from highlighting free tax prep programs to funding parties (and everything in between.)

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