Computer Science Majors and Alan Turing

Alan Turing is almost universally recognized as the inventor of computer science. This is based on his conception of both algorithms and computations via his signature invention, the Turing Machine. His influence in the computer sciences field is still widely felt and recognized today. In fact, computer science as it exists today may not have come about at all without the contributions of Alan Turing.



Turing's Mathematical Beginnings


Turing was always exceptionally adept at mathematics. He was known in school for being able to easily solve complex mathematical equations with ease. He was also very interested in science and proved equally talented in that area. He followed Albert Einstein's work closely and even added to it with some of his own highly evolved questioning.



The Turing Machine and Computational Numbers


His association with computer science began in 1936. He was 24-years-old at the time. It was then that he began working on computational numbers. He did so through the publication of an academic paper on the subject and applied computational numbers to the Entscheidungs problem. This paper laid the foundations of the Turing Machine that came later and was famous for being one of the first machines to be able to compute numbers and algorithms. Turing machines could decipher the logic of any algorithm using the computational numbers theory as a foundation.



Two years after delving into computational numbers, Turing obtained his Ph.D. degree from Princeton. His dissertation discussed the theory of relative computing. He went back to Britain and used his work with the Turing machine and his conceptions on relative computing to help the British government break German codes during WWII.



However, code breaking was not his only activity at this time. He also found time to design a machine called the Bombe that allowed the British to break German codes more swiftly. The U.S. Navy also made use of the Bombe for code breaking. This invention proved instrumental in many British and U.S. victories against the Germans during WWII.



Computer Circuit Board: Stockvault

Artificial Intelligence and Alan Turing


After the war, Turing began teaching and doing research at Manchester University. He wrote a paper on the problem of artificial intelligence in 1950. This was long before most people ever conceived of such things. The paper focused on the problem of the development of computers that could think and act on their own at the level of human intelligence. To combat the potential problem of artificial intelligence run amok, Turing proposed that computers be built with intelligence at the level of a small child and then be trained and educated so that the machines did not become dangerous. The famous Turing Test was derived from this paper. It is a test to measure the intelligence of a machine.



Turing's Continuing Influence on Computer Science Today


Though Turing sadly died while still at the peak of his career; his legend lives on. The Turing Award was conceived and named after him in 1966. It is awarded annually to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the field of the computer science. It is a prestigious award and is the world's way of honoring the man who laid the foundations of the computer-based society we live in today.

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Stephen Normandy is a computer junkie who often writes on computer science, laptops, laptop accessories, gadgets and other related subjects; laptop owners may want to view the kensington laptop lock by visiting kensington.com.

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Getting Laptop Insurance in College is Essential

The college years are both an exciting and expensive time in a person's life. It is exciting because it is preparing a student to go out and make his/her mark on the world. It is expensive because tuition, books, room and board, and other living expenses for college students is enough to bankrupt a few third world countries.

To mitigate the financial damage that college inevitably causes, it is a good idea to protect oneself from any unexpected expenses. One good way to do that is by insuring essential devices like laptops.

Economics 101

The average financially prudent college student is already working hard to save a buck whenever possible. Eating cheap meals and walking instead of driving are common ways college students save money. Insuring a laptop is another example of good economic planning. For a comparatively small investment, a student can ensure that unfortunate circumstances will not mean a hefty financial loss down the road.

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry

It is widely known that the college years can be a bit "free-spirited". Friends and party seekers can and do often show up and behave a bit on the reckless side. Spilled beer, smoke, or even hot food can destroy a laptop. Without replacement insurance, a struggling student may end up incurring major debt to replace it.

Man of Steel

While Superman might be invulnerable to damage, laptops are not. Simply dropping a laptop could render it useless. Other potential causes of laptop destruction include getting stepped on, having something heavy dropped on it, or even being left in a too hot or too cold room for a long time.

Laptop Insurance Policy: Stockphoto

No Honor Among Thieves

Colleges can be, unfortunately, great places for thieves to operate. Many students can be distracted by all the business of college life and forget to take simple measures to protect property. A laptop left alone for only a few minutes can be stolen by a light-fingered larcenist who is in the right place at the right time.

Even the somewhat "safe" haven of a student's dorm room is not really as protected as one might wish. Roommates or people that roommates allow into a room may find the allure of a quick buck via a stolen laptop too hard to resist.

Simple Measures

For the student looking to avoid all the distress that comes with being forced to buy a new laptop, follow a few simple rules. First, backup everything essential. While recovery experts can sometimes save files from a dead computer, if the computer is lost or stolen, those files are gone forever. Make sure that any important documents are stored somewhere other than the laptop hard drive.

Second, store the laptop somewhere secure. Leaving it on the floor, in the bathroom, or on the edge of a table are recipes for disaster. Set it somewhere that is protected from damage. Secure also means not leaving it alone where it could be stolen. For the sake of the laptop, assume that everybody is a potential crook.

Better Safe than Sorry

Finally, make sure that the laptop is insured. Even the most vigilant student will sometimes accidentally lose or break this most necessary of college gadgets. Make that small investment and get the peace of mind that comes with knowing an accident will not cost a fortune.


Desmond Kramer is a freelance writer based in Dayton, Ohio who contributes articles on a variety of topics including computers, gadgets, gadget insurance, cell phones, futuristic technology and other areas as well. Those with iPhones may want to check out the iphone5 insurance brand Protectyourbubble.com.

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4 Tips to Earning your Bachelor's Degree Quickly

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When it comes to your education, there are a lot of new choices out there these days. If you are interested in earning a bachelor's degree, then you do not always have to go down the traditional path. There are a lot of different programs that will enable you to get your bachelor's through other means. Many of these programs are used by adults who want advance their education, but who want to minimize the length of time before they’re awarded their degree. Competing responsibilities, such as career and family, often do not allow them to attend classes as a full-time student. As a result, utilizing nontraditional means of getting a degree provides them with a greater amount of flexibility.

 

Transfer Courses

If you have already earned some credits from a university in the past, or even earned an associate's degree from a community college, then you may be able to transfer your existing credits and build off of that foundation. Policies regarding credit transfers vary from college to college, so be sure to speak with an admissions counselor before applying. Transfer courses may help you shave a few semesters off of your intended program. .

Accelerated Evening Courses

Most bachelor degree programs follow the traditional academic year with breaks winter vacation, spring vacation, and summer vacation. All of these holidays can end up slowing down your progress considerably. If you want to speed up earning your bachelor's program, look into accelerated

evening courses, which are in session throughout the year. Courses like these will significantly shorten the time it takes to earn your bachelor’s. Accelerated courses are often held in the evenings so that they are more accessible to those with stiffer schedules.

Distance Learning and Online Programs

Some universities offer students opportunities for distance learning, particularly in graduate programs. Often these classes will need to take place at certain times for live discussions between classmates and professors, but the freedom of location allows students to pursue their education without relocating or moving their families. Colleges and universities across the country now offer online programs and courses. These courses may allow students more freedom to complete coursework quickly as long as they have time for it. Course materials, such as readings and lectures, are all posted online, allowing students to work ahead while managing other responsibilities.

Assess your own needs to narrow down which type or types of programs will work best for you and your schedule. After deciding on a program type and subject, you are ready to begin your college search.

Author Bio:

Michelle Patterson is a freelance writer and blogger who is writing on behalf of Duquesne University School of Leadership and ProfessionalDevelopment, which hosts evening and weekend adult undergraduate programs. For more information about leadership and management program offerings, check out the Duquesne University School of Leadership and Professional Development.

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Essential Tools Every Student Writer Should Know and Have

         Being a writer is a difficult job, especially when you rely on your skills for a living. You must be able to convey your ideas and make sure to relate to them in a manner that readers can understand. At the same time, you also have to ensure that what you write is believable and based on facts and information. Otherwise, you will lose your credibility and no one would want to read your work.

            Fortunately, there are a lot of tools which writers can use. Although everything else still depends on your ideas and own style, these aids can help you make a quality output and assists in improving your work by making sure that the content is error free. Hence, here are 10 useful tools an experienced writer should consider looking into.

Plagiarism software

            With the wide-range of information available on the Internet, it’s no wonder how some people can lift a sentence or two on their papers and make those ideas as their own. In order to prevent being accused of plagiarism, then plagiarism checker Plagtracker is the ultimate tool to check any copyright issues. It has a unique checking algorithm that will immediately inform you if any of the sentences or

paragraphs is similar to other people’s work. Even if you did not copy anything while writing your content, there will be instances that your ideas are already conveyed by the other. Hence, it is better to make use of Plagtracker to make sure that nothing is duplicated. If you want further assistance, a minimal fee is required to purchase the program.

Visual Thesaurus

            Google doesn’t want you to keep repeating the same word all throughout your article. To avoid being penalized, then Visual Thesaurus is going to be your new best friend. It gives you the possible choice for every word typed, whether it is a noun or an adjective. To maximize this product, you need to pay for a subscription fee at a minimum price.

Dragon Naturally Speaking

            Typing, especially when you’ve been doing it all day, can be exhausting. Luckily, there’s a speech recognition software that allows you to talk and your computer will do the typing for you. Simply say the words and everything else will be translated directly on your computer screen, accurately. Hence, it saves you more time and energy which can help increase your productivity.

Scribe

            SEO is a very important tool in writing online. If you want to generate the right amount of traffic in your site, then Scribe is essential for you. It follows an online marketing trinity of content, social and search, making sure that all SEO-related areas taken into account by Google will be covered.

Xmarks

            It is an essential add-on that synchronizes all your passwords and bookmarks and at the same time, can be used for searching information, all for free. It will not help your writing career in a big way but it can contribute a lot as it saves you time which you can use to focus on your writing.

Dim Dim

            Through this web conferencing service, you are able to talk to your clients in real time while giving you an inexpensive way to share any documents in a secured network. However, it requires a payment of monthly subscription fee, which is still affordable.

Skype

            In order to maintain a strong writer-client relationship, then this software should be installed in your computer. Skype is the primary source of communication for most clients since it’s easier and more convenient to use with no fees required. 

Wridea

            Wridea promotes the idea of collaboration and brainstorming. You simply post an idea and categorize them in pages, ask your friends to give a feedback and encourage discussion and brainstorming among them, to make sure that your ideas get better. If you’re geared towards the creative aspect of writing, then this web service is for you.

MS Word Macros

            If you have a task that you do most of the time, then MS Word Macros can become handy. It creates a shortcut to a task that you repeatedly which can help you save some time and allows you to focus on more important tasks. You can even use this to organize your daily writing schedule.

Web SEO Analytics Tools

            Definitely a useful tool for every writer, the Web SEO Analytics has the most complete tools that will help you meet Google’s online content standards. It has everything you need – plagiarism checker, keyword, link and domain tools, even Web SEO Analysis.

            Although these tools can be useful, the important thing is to be able to provide an original and high quality content article that can attract readers all over the world. 

Sandra Miller is a freelance writer from Brooklyn. She always uses professional editing services help to make her writing perfect. 

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Accountant Job Satisfaction

While accounting may appear to be a career that lacks in overall employment satisfaction due to a perceived tediousness, there are studies and surveys that suggest that crunching numbers may be more fulfilling than individuals may speculate.

According to a U.S. News and World Report annual 100 Best Business Jobs of 2013 survey the top five jobs based on data provided by the U.S Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) are:

1.  Market Research Analyst
2.  Financial Adviser
3.  Accountant
4.  Compliance Officer
5.  Bookkeeping, Accounting, & Audit Clerk

BLS data further shows that the median pay for accountants is around $61,690 (2010) or $29.66 per hour and that the number of accountant jobs in 2010 was 1,216,900. An employment change for 2010-2020 shows that an additional 190,700 are expected to be added for a total growth rate of 15.7 percent.

Are Accountants Relatively Satisfied with their Career?

Based on the BLS and US News information, one would believe that being an accountant is a very good career choice that pays well and offers stability and opportunities for growth. The role of the

accountant is important one, particularly after this country's recent flirtation with economic disaster and the need for the books and records of corporations, banks and governments to better reflect what is being done based on substantiated, not phantom, accounting methods and practices.

The existence of five big and four narrow traits determined the career satisfaction of an accountant. These traits (by "big" and "narrow") are:

Five Big Traits of Accountants

1.  Agreeableness/Teamwork
2.  Conscientiousness
3.  Emotional Stability
4.  Extraversion, and
5.  Openness

Four Narrow Traits of Accountants

1.  Assertiveness
2.  Customer-Service Orientation
3.  Optimism, and
4.  Work Drive

This suggests that the need for new accountants in light of the Bureau of Labor and Statistics projection of nearly 200,000 new accountants for the profession by 2020 requires recruiters to focus on those individuals in possession of the above traits.

Big Five Personality Traits as a Predictor of Accounting Career Satisfaction

Personality tests have been administered by human resources professional, such as the well-known Meyers-Briggs Type Indicator (MPTI) as a way to assess ability and determine if a candidate will fit in the work environment. The big five traits are an adaptation of standard personality tests applicable to the workplace. Of the five big traits, emotional stability, which relates to a person's emotional state on the job and their ability to adjust to their surroundings and function, especially when faced with stress and pressure, had the highest correlation to career satisfaction for accountants.

In addition to a high pay rate, accountants are also equipped with a steady employment rate that is expected to increase in the coming years. In an economy with an uncertain outlook, accountants and other similar positions are afforded job security rather than high unemployment rates. These factors, combined with personalities that function well under the conditions required for the position, are reasons that accountants have a high career satisfaction.

Ray Pilkington is a freelance writer based in Biloxi, Mississippi who concentrates his writing career on personal finance, taxation, tax reform, savings, economic development and other related topics; to learn more about taxation view the following information on R&R Income Tax.

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How to Choose a New Bank or Credit Union for College Students

The boxes and bags are all packed, the dorm room has been assigned and course selection is right around the corner.  Starting college is a heady time, one that can cause the new college student to forget some of the more practical matters associated with the transition, such as the distance from the Bank of Mom and Dad, and the all the other annoyances associated with the first tentative steps into financial independence.

You may already have an account open from a summer job or weekends bagging groceries, but does that mean that you should continue using this account when you head off to college? Not necessarily, especially for those of you whose colleges are in a new state or were previously banking at a more local institution. Read through the following tips to get a better sense of what you’ll want to look for when deciding how to handle your banking while in college.

Two Choices

The first thing you need to decide is: credit union or bank? If you’ve never opened an account at either, the distinction between the two might not be immediately apparent. Both types of institutions accept deposits and provide financial services to their depositors, such as providing loans and allowing members access to their money through ATMs worldwide. Credit unions, however, are not-for-profit institutions that view themselves as community oriented, generally offering more advantageous rates, from lower interest rates on loans to higher interest on savings account or CD rates. Technically speaking, whereas depositors at banks are viewed as customers, credit union depositors are members and owners in the union. Money at banks is invested for the banks profit; money at a credit union is reinvested for your profit.

 Convenience

As a college student, your life will be busier than ever before. Heading off campus with no car might be a daunting challenge, and access to your money will be of paramount importance. Credit unions and banks often have branches on your campus; you might even see one of your classmates behind the counter handling your deposit. They also usually operate at least one or two ATMs on campus as well, which means a much shorter walk to access cash.

With the explosion in smartphone use, especially amongst the college-age demographic, online banking and mobile apps have become incredibly important. A few years ago, this was an arena dominated by larger banks with the financial resources to offer the most high-tech tools for mobile banking. In the past few years, however, credit unions have caught up and now offer

many of the same services available on your phone as Bank of America or Chase.

Fees

Watch out for minimum deposits and other requirements at large banks; many require that your checking account and your savings account both maintain a minimum balance. If your balance falls below this amount, you may be charged. That’s right, you can be charged for having too little money. One option is to look for a student account, which might waive such fees for full-time college students. Most credit unions also avoid these fees in principle and in practice, as their goal is to make you money.

As a broke college student, you may often find yourself scraping the bottom of your account for a life-saving slice of pizza. Don’t let a $3 slice turn into a $28 slice – make sure to take into account the overdraft fees at a bank or credit union and understand how to avoid them.

Perks

Banks and credit unions near college campuses know the way to their members’ hearts – free t-shirts and other such perks. It doesn’t end at graduation either. If you join a university credit union, most allow for alumni membership, which means you can continue to be a lifetime member. Your credit union will probably offer auto and home loans, as well as other types of credit at very good rates; remember that even a small difference can save you a bundle over the life of the loan.

Final Balance

This article has come down pretty heavily on the side of credit unions. Rest assured that as not-for-profit institutions, there is a good reason for it. In the interest of completeness, however, I should mention some last things to consider before telling you to run down and open up your new credit union account.

Big banks offer two advantages that credit unions may not. The first is easy transfers from mom and dad. Having an account at the same bank as them may make it easier to transfer funds when your books cost a little more than you originally budgeted for. The second is credit cards, something that should probably be avoided by freshman and sophomores anyway, but a useful financial tool that your credit union may not offer.

That being said, make sure to shop around and check out your university’s credit union when you first get to campus. Let them explain the rates and benefits to you and see if you’re convinced. Happy saving!

John Gower is a writer for NerdWallet, a personal finance website dedicated to helping consumers find the checking accounts, credit cards and more.

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Other Ways to Pay for College Besides Loans and Scholarships

Most parents rely on loans and scholarships in order to manage their child’s education expenses. In reality, there are other options, but few people are aware of them. Therefore, this article can help to highlight some of the options that can be beneficial for you. It can be useful if you’re looking for options to pay off college debt without complicating your financial situation.

Here are some of the effective tips to pay off your college debt without relying on student loan or financial aid:

1. Stocks- Beneficial for your college savings portfolio: Tuition costs are incessantly increasing, faster than inflation. Therefore, stocks are considered to be the best way to save enough for the long term. You can start saving today to secure the educational future of your child. Therefore, parents can save money for a child who is approaching college age. You can effortlessly shelter your returns by switching your money into more bonds and cash. Once the bonds are matured, you can pay for college expenses with ease.

2. Section 529 Plans: Can be an effective solution to your problem:

Section 529 plans are popularly known as the Qualified Tuition Programs (QTP). This plan is considered to be the best option for saving for your children’s college education. You can effortlessly use your savings to pay off your educational loans without relying on additional loans or other financial aid programs. Prepaid tuition plans and college savings plans are two types of programs under section 529 plans. When you opt into prepaid tuition plans, you lock in future tuition rates at in-state public colleges at current prices. It’s usually guaranteed by the state. However, college savings plans are not rigid and do not offer a guarantee.

3. Savings Social Networking Programs: Social networking sites encourage friends as well as family to contribute to a child’s college education. Some programs are designed for the donor like updates on the child's academic progress. Therefore, the contribution of the donor can be used to encourage the student to get good grades and succeed in school.

4. College Savings Bank: The CollegeSure CD is an FDIC-insured certificate of deposit that is aimed for the purpose to manage college expenses. This certificate is offered by a college savings bank. The interest on this CollegeSure certificate of deposit is similar to other CDs. The interest percentage is fixed for average college costs at maturity. Once a CollegeSure CD has matured, the family can use the principal and accumulated interest to pay off college expenses.

5. Education Bond Program: Interest on certain savings bonds is tax free with the help of the Education Bond Program. Therefore, when you redeem bonds to manage higher education expenses, these savings are tax free.

Keep the above mentioned options when you’re planning to manage higher education expenses and want to use more than just loan and scholarship programs.  

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Industrial Engineering: A Failsafe Degree?

Individuals seeking a new career path in the engineering field may contemplate earning a degree in industrial engineering, believing this industry offers failsafe job options. Are the job prospects as positive as most individuals believe them to be, especially in the present struggling workforce?

What They Do

Industrial engineers focus on the design, development, implementation, and improvement on integrated systems, taking into consideration people, information, materials, energy, and equipment. From the factory assembly lines to hospital operating rooms, industrial engineers help improve complex processes to eliminate wastefulness in a wide range of industries and production processes.

Opportunities

Industrial engineering offers individuals a wide range of career possibilities. The greater your experience and qualifications are, the more job opportunities are available to you; however, with the multitude of choices and much-needed commitment required in this field comes tough decisions that could impact your prospects. In order to increase your chances of finding a position as an industrial engineer, you need to focus on opportunities that are best suited to your strengths and skills, allowing you to be the most effective.

Industrial engineering is predicted to increase by approximately six percent between the years 2010 and 2020, which is less than the overall occupational average; however, being versatile in both the pertinent industries and work nature, industrial engineers are attractive to most employers because their work can help businesses increase efficiency through cost control. Besides playing a crucial role in providing a corporation with a competitive edge, industrial engineering offers individuals many positive prospects in this career.

Career Versatility

Industrial engineering offers a wide range of career choices. Because industrial engineers do not specialize in a specific field, as do other engineers, they can seek employment in various industries such as hospitals, major manufacturing industries, research and development corporations, and consulting and engineering services.

Industrial engineers focus on reducing a company’s internal costs, which makes them a valuable asset to even the fastest growing industries. For those contemplating industrial engineering as a career choice, individuals need to take into account that finding a job in this industry may be hindered because many employment opportunities in manufacturing industries are projected to decline or only slowly grow through over the next few years.

Exceptional Pay

Those who are seeking a position as an industrial engineer can expect to earn a decent annual salary. The median annual salary for an industrial engineer was approximately $76,100, as of May 2010. Median annual salaries for industrial engineers in the top employing industries as of May 2010 were as follows:

• Semiconductor and electronic component manufacturing - $83,620
• Navigational, electromedical, control instruments, and measuring manufacturing - $81,850
• Engineering, architectural, and related services - $80,990
• Aerospace parts and products manufacturing - $80,940
• Automobile parts manufacturing - $72,840

Promotion Opportunities

After obtaining the proper amount of experience, it is not uncommon for industrial engineers to be promoted to a managerial position. For those who are seeking a management position, industrial engineering offers an easy solution. Aspiring industrial engineers obtain similar business training and education as business students, and many times industrial engineers will minor in sales or businesses administration. Additional math, technology, and science training make industrial engineers more marketable to employers, and many will complete their educational experience by earning an MBA.

Nigel Cunningham is a writer and blogger currently penning articles for Allight Sykes, a company which supplies a range of products such as light towers, mining pumps and other equipment.

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The State of For-Profit Colleges

For-profit colleges have been booming for the past several years. Many offer flexible online programs and opportunities for students who might not be able to gain admissions to non-profit and state schools. But is a for-profit college the best choice for students seeking higher education and career advancement? Recent developments suggest that the answer is no.

Struggling for Enrollment

Far from the earlier boom years, for-profit colleges are now struggling to maintain student enrollment amid allegations that they offer an inferior education and overcharge students. Many for-profit colleges are closing branches throughout the country. Even the manner in which these colleges are closing is contentious. In Connecticut, for example, several schools were closed at the end of 2012

after losing their accreditation. Regaining accreditation would have been a two-year process, and the students would not have been eligible for financial aid until the schools were re-accredited. However, the schools were still obligated to follow Connecticut law which included making provisions two months ahead of time so that students could make other plans. This was not done.

Burdened Students

Another way in which the tide has turned regarding for-profit colleges relates to the financial situation of students. Many either drop out, unable to complete courses, or graduate with staggering student loans and cannot find work. In July of 2012 a federal judge dismissed parts of a new set of regulations from the Obama administration that attempted to ensure that students of for-profit colleges did not end up in such dire straits. Nevertheless, portions of the regulation remained, and the judge acknowledged that there were problems with the schools that needed attention.

Projected Decline

Bloomberg News did a series of investigative reports several years ago on for-profit colleges and alleged that many such schools employed predatory practices against vulnerable populations including homeless people and veterans. Meanwhile, the corporations that own the colleges including Goldman Sachs and the Washington Post Co. are raking in billions. Currently, the stock value of for-profit colleges is in decline.

Changing Landscape

Just a few short years ago, traditional schools could not compete with the online offerings of for-profit colleges, but this is a landscape that is changing rapidly and brick-and-mortar colleges and universities are increasingly offering substantive online tracks. Some traditional colleges have even begun offering some free online courses for credit. All of this spells trouble for for-profit colleges that offered online flexibility as their biggest advantage over traditional schools.

Another issue and one reason students often have trouble securing jobs after graduation is that many for-profit schools simply have poor educational reputations. That isn't to say that there might not be talented and caring instructors at for-profit institutions or that no student will get a good education at one. But by and large, the perception of the colleges in both the business and the academic world is that they offer an inferior education.

Concluding Remarks

It is not impossible that a student could obtain both a good education and desired employment following graduation from a for-profit college. However, given the increase in online classes from community colleges, four-year institutions and universities and the increasingly uncertain future of for-profit schools, students would do well to investigate any for-profit schools they are considering carefully including whether the school has come under state or federal investigation, its accreditation status and the fate of its graduates. Students need to do independent research rather than relying on what the school tells them. In the end, though, the best choice is probably a traditional school whether the student takes classes online or in person.

Reginald Sallinsky is a freelance blogger and writer who focuses on education, professional development and training, the employment market and other kindred concerns. Online colleges, such as those online nursing schools and www.phlebotomytraining-classes.com, are likewise a subject of great contention in society, and a topic likely to be explored by Reginald in the future.

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Degree in Petroleum Engineering

The petroleum industry is experiencing robust and sustained growth as the international and domestic demand for petroleum products, ranging from gasoline to lubricating oil, continues to rise. Because of this, petroleum engineers are in great demand; some students have even been able to obtain well-compensated and secure employment before their graduation.



Currently, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS ) estimates that there are over 30,000 petroleum engineers employed in the United States. The job opportunities for petroleum engineers are expanding at a robust 17 percent with over 35,000 positions expected by 2020. In addition, job openings due to retirement and other sources of attrition help ensure a wide range of opportunities for individuals seeking to enter this field. The BLS has also determined that petroleum engineers enjoy excellent salary and benefit packages, with the median annual salary for a petroleum engineer exceeding $114,000, while the upper 10 percent of engineers earn over $166,000. In many cases, these wages do not take into account very generous vacation, housing, and medical plan options. 


Get Them Before They're Gone


However, because the market for petroleum engineers is such a competitive one, and obtaining a skilled staff so vital to the effective exploitation of petroleum resources, many companies prefer to hire students before their graduation in order to avoid the risk that another business will secure the student’s services first. In addition, this competitive job market helps ensure that students and graduates alike can obtain very promising compensation and professional packages as a part of their hiring contract. 



In addition, offering a job to a student who has not yet graduated can allow a company to help the student focus on those areas of expertise that the employer finds most important. Given the wide range of specialties within the field of petroleum engineering, this can allow a company to dramatically reduce the amount of training required for a newly hired engineer. It also allows the student to prepare him or herself for the job by learning about the employer’s corporate culture and mission. 


High Demand means High Value


The growing demand for petroleum engineers is largely due to two factors. The first is the continued growth of the national and international energy development sector. The need for petroleum engineers, whether it is to work in traditional oil fields or to work in research and development for more efficient methods of oil extraction, has created an insatiable demand for highly qualified employees. Because of the specialized knowledge and skill base required to work in the petroleum industry, retraining other engineers for this field is unfeasible in most cases. 



In addition, the highly skilled faculty needed to train students in petroleum engineering has created a bottleneck in the supply of new graduates. From 1957 until the last decade, enrollment in petroleum engineering programs suffered a steady decrease in class sizes. When coupled with retirement and other sources of attrition among currently employed engineers, this educational decline contributed to the current shortage of qualified petroleum engineers. While many schools are attempting to expand their programs, the need to secure experienced instructors and facilities places a limit on how quickly these programs can expand.



Although it is likely that the supply of graduates will eventually match the current demand, for the foreseeable future, petroleum engineering students will continue to enjoy excellent job and salary prospects offered by employers who continue to face a shortage of qualified engineers. Furthermore, the continuing expansion of petroleum extraction operations into previously untapped areas, coupled with the growing energy demands of the developing world, make it certain that this career field will continue to experience robust growth. This makes becoming a petroleum engineer an excellent choice for students seeking a secure career in today’s business environment.


This piece was written by Eric Satterberg, a freelancer who concentrates on education, engineering, mathematics, science, oil and gas, energy, alternative fuel sources and other related issues; to learn more about engineering visit Audubon Engineering.

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Deciding on a College

College admission letters will be rolling in soon, and a lot of lucky high school seniors will be ripping open their acceptance letters from a variety of schools. Many will also have to open up a few rejection letters as well. No matter your situation, you still have to answer one very important question: Which school will fit your needs the best? To figure that out, there are several important things you will want to look at first.

You will definitely want to choose a school that you could see yourself being happy at. The things you have to consider when applying to schools are different from what you have to take into account when committing to a school.

Cost: Will it be Worth It?

One of the most important things you should look at before deciding to attend a school is how much it costs to attend, and if you can afford it or not. You should lay out your college payment plan and compare the prices of different schools, and see how they fit your financial status. If you have applied to a wide spectrum of schools that are distinguished from one another, it may be best for

you to spend more. However, if the schools have little differences then you may want to pick the one that has the better price.

Remember to factor in that most schools require freshmen to sign up for meal plans, and reside on campus. This can definitely add sway when really narrowing down your choices to one or two schools. Also keep in mind that costs add up over the years, and your initial costs of starting school could end up doubling. 

Quality of Life: Will You Be Happy?

You should also list the most prominent details/features of each school, and compare each college using pros and cons.

Visualizing everything you deem important, seeing it organized on paper, will assist you in coming to a more solid conclusion.

Experts say that students should visit their top three picks multiple times to get a feel for what life on campus is like there. Going back as an admitted student could change your perspective on things if you have already gone on a tour of the school before. Most people who visit schools pay attention to a lot more things than they originally did when just going on a tour. It is also worth it to arrange a meeting with a professor in the same department that you would like to study in. If you have chosen a school that has a wide variety of majors, programs and degrees then chances are you will be able to remain at that school once you narrow down the career path you want to follow.

Campus Life: Will You Also Have Some Fun?

The size and location of a school should also play an important role in your decision process of choosing a school to go to. It is considered okay to base your decision on location if the schools you are deciding between have similar academic quality. Sometimes factors such as the weather of the location you want to choose or the campus you liked the best can be deciding factors. It is said that people can greatly benefit from attending a college with an urban campus where they are not completely immersed in college life. This allows them to experience other corners of life and gain much more experience than one could in a small town.

Social life can become a very important factor when deciding on a school. It is only natural to think about how you may fit in and if you feel you will belong. Considering the social aspects is important because you will most likely live there for several years. So when making your list you should try to think about important social dimensions. Which schools have clubs, associations, or honor societies that meet with your interests? You may want to consider looking into different recreational activities that the different schools offer. Whether they are sports- or artistically-driven, finding interests that are common between you and the student body is essential for your decision. Students often perform better academically and socially in environments that fits with their social preferences and personality.

Keeping these aspects in mind, don’t forget to breathe. Yes, this is a big decision, but it’s also an exciting one. Maybe you got into the school of your dreams. Maybe you didn’t. The important this to remember though, is that if take the time to research, you will most likely end up at a school which meets all of your needs, making your college experience a success.

Angie Picardo is a staff writer for NerdWallet. Her mission is to help consumers stay financially savvy, and save some money with a Levi’s promo code.

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What Math Must an Accountant Master?

Since accountants are responsible for recording and analyzing various business operations, they must master mathematical skills that range from basic computation to depreciation formulas. Although knowledge of algebra is helpful, it is not necessary. Mathematical skills needed by accountants to pass the CPA examination are learned in the various accounting classes.

The Work of Certified Public Accountants

The work of the CPA is essential in every business and government entity. They audit, analyze, and compute taxes and give advice to businesses, governments, and individuals that conduct business in the United States. They use ratios, percentages, and comparisons to determine the entity’s financial position and advise management about the best course of action to improve their financial position. Before engaging in work as a CPA, candidates must pass a state examination.

Sections of the CPA Exam

The four sections of the CPA examination are auditing, business environment and concepts, regulation, and financial accounting. You may choose the order in which you take the sections, but you must successfully pass all four sections within 18 months.

Noting the various sections of the CPA examination, you may conclude that the only section requiring mathematics is the financial and recording section. The other sections test the candidate’s knowledge of law, ethics, and business strategy.

Financial Accounting and Reporting

This section contains material learned in college accounting classes from basic accounting through cost/management accounting. In addition, governmental, nongovernmental, and not-for-profit accounting material is covered. Financial statements, typical business transactions, and accounting concepts are covered.

A class in business mathematics is sufficient to prepare the CPA candidate to pass the examination. For example, the successful candidate knows that current assets divided by current liabilities yields the current ratio. The ability to interpret the significance of the ratio distinguishes the quality of the accountants.

Comparing Financial Statements

The accountant compares income statements and balance sheets to determine what the business entity has done during the past years. The difference between each asset, liability, and equity account balance shows the increase or decrease of the account between the years. The accountant may divide the total into the individual accounts to determine the percentage for each account. A basic business mathematics class prepares the accountant for making these computations.

Cost Accounting

Regardless of the system used, the accountant uses basic mathematical skills for cost accounting. Addition and subtraction are needed to determine inventory values, and division is used to determine unit cost. The desired profit is determined and is computed using basic mathematical skills.

Taxes and Payroll

Basic mathematical skills are used to compute depreciation, taxes, and payrolls. The IRS has determined the methods used to compute depreciation and payroll taxes. In addition, the IRS also provides charts to determine the amount of depreciation for each year of the asset’s life.

 Industry Standards

The CPA compares the various ratios and financial statements with the industry standards. By making these comparisons, the accountant will know how well the entity is doing. He or she will be able to determine what the entity needs to do to improve its position in the industry.

Conclusion

The work of the CPA requires an analytical mind to analyze financial statements and other reports. The mathematical skills necessary to complete these reports require basic mathematics.


Robert Penny writes on education, accountancy, mathematics, higher learning and other kindred subjects. Those curious about accounting jobs can learn a great deal more about accounting jobs with moneyjobs.com.

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How You Can Finish A College Degree Without Scholarships

If you are currently in college without a scholarship, this guide offers information on obtaining finances to complete your degree. It may seem hard in the beginning, but successfully navigating the tricky waters of financial instability now aides in developing a more responsible approach to future money issues. Financial experts offer the following advice.

Borrow the Funds

Borrow educational funds in the form of low-interest federal student loans. Subsidized loans depend on financial need while unsubsidized funds are similar to a personal loan. If your award is not enough, parents, guardians or any credit worthy adult can apply for additional unsubsidized funds to close the gap.

Loan repayment does not begin until after graduation or if you drop below full-time enrollment status. Loan limits depend on your enrollment year, student status (graduate or undergraduate) and dependent status. Start the loan process by completing the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA).
 

Consider Alternative Loans                  

This type of loan is provided by a private lender as opposed to a federal source. Students and parents have the ability to loan 100% of tuition fee to support college expenses. Lenders have the ability to choose to whom they will disburse the fund, either to the school or directly to the student borrower.

The problem with considering private student loan is that interest rate increases over loan life. Parents and students, may then consider taking the equity of the home to fund college expenses. Usually, if you have 80-85% of the total equity of the house, you can file for home equity loan. The problem with this type of mortgage, is the possibility of losing your home once you are not able to repay on time.

Use Your Employer

Working at the right company can provide valuable tuition assistance. If you are currently working, ask your boss or the human resources department about educational programs that pay for classes. Some companies offer free tuition to full-time employees.

In addition to asking your employer about tuition programs, ask the school about special discounts or waivers available for certain occupations. A few institutions waive fees for state employees or public servants. Even a part-time occupation can result in substantial tuition breaks.

Switch Schools

Sometimes change is good. When you find yourself in the middle of a tuition crisis, ask if there is a cheaper alternative. State universities are cheaper than their private counterparts, instantly reducing your financial load. There are also tuition-free institutions with strong academic reputations. Closely investigate every option and discuss which existing credits will transfer before making any definite moves.

Explore Your Cultural Legacy

Talk with your family about their history. Ask about participation in notable wars and your ethnic makeup. Some state institutions offer tuition waivers to certain individuals of certain ethnicity or descendants of war veterans. Your mere existence might make you eligible for tuition assistance and fee waivers.

Consider Personal Obstacles

If you were on any form of public assistance immediately before entering college there may be a tuition waiver in your future. In some states, students enrolled in Medicaid programs receive free tuition at two-year institutions. Survivors of natural disasters and national tragedies also receive tuition waivers. Schools grant assistance on an individual basis, so bring plenty of documentation when pleading your case.

Become a Virtual Student

Take the remainder of your degree via online learning - but use extreme caution. Enrolling in an Internet-based curriculum at your current school could keep you in financial distress. Traditionally, virtual schools omitted classrooms and other objects that tend to bolster tuition rates. Larger colleges and universities build separate departments for Internet staff, causing massive tuition bills for students.

Once you compare tuition hour pricing, inquire with school administrators and state authorities regarding licensure. Make sure your potential degree will a creditable one. As with any transfer, ask which credits are transferable before committing to any program. Cheaper enrollment rates allow loans and income amounts to stretch further.

A money crisis does not automatically spell disaster for your academic future. Depending on the situation, applying for student loans, mining untapped personal resources or switching schools may provide an effective solution. Staying in control during such stressful times will effectively prepare you for the real world.

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Computer Science Majors After Graduation

Few inventions have become as ubiquitous as the computer. We have them everywhere. In our pockets, on our desks, in our book-bags, and in our classrooms. Over the last fifty years, computers have evolved from giant thundering beasts into a symbol of humanities technological advancement. But we're not slowing down. The computer is becoming increasingly necessary in the United State's economy. There isn't a business or initiative that's separate from the computer's influence.

This should come as good news for anyone major in computer sciences. There will be a need wherever there's a large set of computers or a network. As computers are still a relatively new technology, there is still a lot of room for this industry to grow and mature. It's understandable for graduates or prospective graduates to have some tepid feelings about their job prospects. Especially considering their high unemployment rate. Yet, there's no reason to fear! This developing major still will see growth and need in the coming years.  

What do Computer Science Majors do and Where are They Wanted?

Computer science majors have a number of different possible career paths to choose from. For instance, if they so desired, graduates could become computer research scientists. They can be computer systems analysts, a designer, or a database analyst. Essentially, these careers all focus around the technology behind a computer or a network.

As could be expected, computer science majors are needed where there are a lot of computers or tasks related to them. Banks, multinational corporations, and even smaller, more locally run businesses are in demand of good computer science majors. 

What can a Computer Science Major Expect in Terms of Income and Work Environment:

What these graduates experience in the workforce will obviously depend on what specific job they enter. There are different expectations for different positions. Each will carry it's own unique environment and compensation.

Most jobs, however, pay extremely well. The demand for graduates in this developing stem field places a high importance on their skills. A systems analyst can expect to receive around $77,000 a year. Most of these individuals work in companies that revolve around system design and other similar services. However, a large percentage of them are seen in the insurance field.

On the other hand, research scientists can expect to make over $100,000 per year. They tend to work primarily for the federal government. Many choose to work in fields relating to education, however. This includes becoming a teacher themselves or performing tasks for schools.

In both cases, the environments tend to be more structured and orderly. However, many major corporations have incredible central buildings and promote less structured approaches to problems. Such a corporate headquarters can be found with Google or Yahoo. 

Job Projections:

A good job environment and a large income isn't enough to guarantee a good job. Demand needs to be present. If there isn't, then those details are merely extraneous.

Fortunately, all of the businesses in the computer science section are almost assured to expand. As mentioned earlier, computers are becoming increasingly vital to our day to day lives. The need for computer scientists are directly proportional to the need for computers.

Computer science majors can expect to see a 22% increase in the number of jobs in their field over the next decade. That's a mind boggling figure. A fifth more computer jobs today. That's over 50% higher than the expected growth in all other fields. Times are changing and the future may appear uncertain, but growth and stability in this field is a good bet to make.

This piece was composed by Donald Nickerson, a freelancer who focuses on computer software and computer gadgetry of various sorts; those interested in computer gadgetry should view the latest ipad cases from kensington.com.

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Scholarships and Tutoring for Military Children

The child of a military serviceman or woman spends months or years apart from a parent who’s serving the country. In order to lessen the burden that military families bear, there are military dependent scholarships available to children of service members — and educational assistance isn’t limited to college-age students either. If your child has a parent in the military, take advantage of the resources available to get your child the best education.

G.I. Bill

If you or your spouse has served at least 10 years in the military, you can transfer some or all of your G.I. Bill benefits to your dependent children. Remember that children are still considered dependent until the age of 26 if they remain unwed and are enrolled full-time in higher education.

Students must be at least 18 and have completed high school or earned a GED before they can take advantage of their parent’s G.I. Bill benefits. The serviceman or woman is essentially sharing the benefits; they can either use some of the benefits for themselves or for a spouse and some for the child, or they can give all of the benefits to the child. The parent does not have to be on active duty for the child to be eligible.

Army Emergency Relief

The Army Emergency Relief Dependent Children Scholarship is a need-based program; however, the parent need not be on active duty for the child to qualify. The child must be at least 18, unwed, and enrolled in an undergraduate program, an associate program or an accreditation program. If the child gets married after receiving the benefits but before the school year for which the benefits were awarded ends, he/she may lose the benefits. 

The Army Emergency Relief program is also open to children of deceased members of the military, whether or not they died while on active duty. The child must maintain a 2.0 GPA or better while receiving the benefits.

Private Scholarships

Individual institutions and private organizations alike provide financial assistance for children of active servicemen and women, as well as children of veterans and deceased servicemen and women. Contact the office of student financial planning at the school of your choice to discuss your options.

Financial counselors at your school may also be able to direct you to nationally based scholarships, such as the Folds of Honor Foundation and the Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund. These organizations specialize in providing scholarships to children of servicemen and women wounded or killed while on active duty. Active-duty military parents may also qualify students for scholarships provided by organizations such as the ThanksUSA program.

Tutoring

If your child is still in elementary, middle or high school, you might not yet be concerned with college scholarships, especially if your child is struggling. Tutoring can help. Many schools provide free tutoring, but professional tutoring centers that can give your child the kind of intense, one-on-one education they may need to succeed often provide free or discounted tutoring to military families. This tutoring can take place either at the tutoring center or even online, via video chats and interactive online lessons. 

You may already be overwhelmed with your service or your spouse’s service, so if your child is struggling in school, don’t be afraid to take advantage of professionals who are willing to help you at no charge or at little cost. Foundations such as the DoD MWR Library Program, the Navy General Library Program, the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program and the Army General Library Program work together to sponsor children of military families via these tutoring centers.

Remember, both the military and private organizations are willing to help dependents of military servicemen and women, so be sure to take advantage of this assistance for your child. The assistance isn’t limited to higher education scholarships, so even if your children are years away from college there are resources available, all you have to do is apply.

About the Author: Aubrey Fooks is a contributing writer and former military brat. She currently works in the office of student financial planning at a state university.

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