Try Making AGet to Know Yourself Mind Map First things First
Have a Career in Mind? Start Your Journey
Chart Your Course
Find The Right Fit
FIRSTJOB 2
InterView
PA Pathfinders
jojobs bs
1
Step
QUESTIONS TO HELP WITH CAREER EXPLORATION
Try It Out First.
To-Do List for High School Students FIRST IMPRESSIONS
To-Do List for High School Students
You Get 30 seconds. No second Chances!
ts ta S Stats Job PROFILES Be Smart Be Prepared Ask Smart Questions
PA Pathfinders 3
There is Something For Everyone in the HealthCare Industry 4
PA Pathfinders
Find The Right Fit Choose from over 300 related jobs in the healthcare Field - Frontline Care Giver - Behind The Scenes - Research
- Technical - Lab - Information PA Pathfinders 5
QUESTIONS TO HELP WITH CAREER EXPLORATION Self Exploration What subjects did you enjoy in high school? In what subjects were your best grades? Are your strengths in the math/science areas or in the social sciences? Both? What extra-curricular activities did you do in high school? Which were the most enjoyable? What did you learn about yourself from them? What personal qualities do you see as your strengths? Limitations? In what kind of work environment do you picture yourself? If you have a spare time, what do you do? Why are you in college? What does a college degree mean to you?
Write 100Things that are valuable to you
No One
Else JustYou
MIND MAP Q’s To Help Jump Start Career Path Exploration What academic areas are you considering? What do you like about these areas? What do you want to learn more about? What occupations are you considering? What is it about these occupations that attracts you? How do your abilities and skills fit the tasks needed to succeed in those areas? Will those occupations provide the rewards and satisfactions you want? Why? What are the differences between the majors/occupations you are considering? The similarities? Who has influenced your ideas about these alternatives?
6
PA Pathfinders
Set A s?
?
rst
fi ns
e io on pin e o l t s Lit n? le' op red? s? cisio e n o r p ssu isi de the Pre r? ec g a o d g g in r? ee ed in akin t mak ne majo Car u k a e m ou yo t a f a ? M roubl go ab se r do bou ice o u a o o u n t io have erally . do yo urself ciding our ch s i er n ss s o e y ec ou ev ou ge proce tegie s by y out d king D y o y he tra ion ab ma Do w d be t ific s cis ious for Ho scri pec ke de anx dline De hat s ma ling dea W you u fee et a Do e yo ou s Ar ve y Ha
Try Making A
Mind Map
Get a big piece of paper and start in the center with a circle. up. Put down 3 careerpaths. Then free flow outward with can see to get to your goal, Imagine all aspects of your reall Now put it on your map. Geeting going Climbrules, even crazy counts ! The idea is to explore have fun do it do it side by side with a best off you apprehesions.... Imagine how great
Use the method of CrossPollination
can get you over it. different restaurant for dessert(s) *show up at friends' houses uninvited-"scavenger hunt to find food," A third: 'Teach something eat-n something i-Jiugglmg-magic trick expert Your to-do list will fist get you from point A to B. KEEP A JOURNAL, BUT
NOT JUST ANY JOURNAL. ""What are you born to do? What are you passionate about?" Start with what excited you when you were younge. As a kid, science ? bug? art? building stuff? Now jott down your observations in lab notebooks. Buy a notebook put your name on study yourself like a bug, try to understand what kind of bug Every night he'd write the answer tothis question: When
Write down What ya Wanna be when you grow each one Write different things, ideas, path you future life. See them in your minds eye as if they are ing out limb by limb, pushing beyond the obvious. No yor self with out fear . insecurity or judgement of ohters.. friend. As long as they won’t make fun. Mos of all take the lid you can be IN VISION YOURSELF with a GREAT FUTURE during the day did I feel bored, when did I feel engaged? After a while, he noticed that his favorite moments involved teaching people. So he went off to do that and lived happily ever after. When you start pitying attention to when you're at your best (it can take a while to find a pattern), the results can open up unexpected new territory
BLOW OPEN YOUR CURIOSITY. Focus on what you love, but
don't limit yourself to only things that you love. Subscribe to new magazines, download podcasts on a topic that has nothing to do with your current life, go to lectures by people at the top of their field even if you've never heard of their field,
get books on tape, and follow Web sites that gather interesting information. (I get Cool News of the Day from reveries.com If you've been banging your head against an obstacle,
LET NO IDEA ESCAPE, Ideas are precious and fragile and tend to show up when we're in the shower, in bed, or stuck in traffic. So we forget them. Try to capture 100 percent of your ideas - on your phone in a notebook, Go for quantity defer judgment until later, when you start to sift through them. You'll probably find that you have a thousand concepts-and most of them are bad. ideas. (we come out with a few leads.
PA Pathfinders 7
Your M
Get Drea m D
8
PA Pathfinders
What do I want to b
Mind Map
Doodling
be when I grow Up?
PA Pathfinders 9
First things First
1
Step
Get to Know Yourself
Assess Your Interests What do you want to be when you grow up? Starting a new career or changing jobs can be an adventure a journey that leads you to new and rewarding work opportunities. It can also be confusing and frustrating if you aren’t sure where you want to go. That’s why we’ve provided a self-assessment tool to help you determine which careers are a good fit for you. The goal is to find a rewarding job or career that uses your unique set of skills, talents and abilities. People who choose careers that match their interests are more likely to achieve job satisfaction and success. However, self-assessments are just one part of the entire career puzzle. You should consider the results of your test in combination with information from career counselors and other sources. The assessment that follows is based on the Holland Interest Inventory1, a widely used method of matching a person’s personality to specific career types.
Let’s get started
In each group, check the items that describe you. Then, count the number of check marks and fill in the total. Be as honest as you can. Remember....There are no wrong answers!
10 PA Pathfinders
Step
2
Step
3
People who choose careers that match
their interests are more likely to achieve job
satisfaction and success
Do what you Love PA Pathfinders 11
Consider Alternative Paths......Techi The New Future High Payin In the past, Career and Technical Education (CTE) schools were considered an alternative form of education for those who were not academically inclined. It was also a commonly held belief that technical education was limiting and would not lead to a high-paying job or good career. Times have changed. Today, career and technical education has a reputation of excellence. Technical jobs are always the first needed when new technology and science is implemented into the workplace. This is why nearly half of the jobs on the market today require advanced training short of a four-year degree. Technical education does not limit you; you can always go on to earn a bachelor’s degree later, often with money in your pocket and your employer’s help. Here are some questions that students typically ask about CTE training:
What exactly is career and technical education? CTE training is highly specialized, technical training in a specific field, linked to 12 PA Pathfinders
there are many openings for people with this type of knowledge and training. Meanwhile, the costs of a college education have gone way up, and college graduates tend to find they posacademics. The training you sess the knowledge but not other fields. receive is “handson” and the skills employers are look- How do I obtain CTE set in an environment similar ing for. training? to that in which you would What jobs can career It is available to high school be working on the job making and technical educa- students in nearly 90 percent you employable right after tion prepare me for? of all school districts in Penncompleting the training. CTE schools offer training sylvania. Generally, training in health care, automotive, is offered through one of the Why is CTE training construction,horticulture, 83 CTE schools throughout engineering,computer tech- the state. important today? CTE is important because nology, business and many How do I learn more
incal Educational Training ng “middle jobs“
about career and technical education?
The first step would be to talk to your school counselor or employment counselor about whether this type of education fits in with your career plans. If possible, visit a nearby CTE school and see firsthand what it offers. You can also find out more
online at www.vocationaltechnical-schools.com or at www.pde.state.pa.us/bcte. Pennsylvania Skills Certificate If you pursue career and technical education in high school, you’ll graduate with a diploma and training in a specific career. That makes you a desirable job candidate. But there’s still something else you can do to make yourself even more attractive to potential employers: earn a Pennsylvania Skills Certificate in addition to your diploma. To do this, you must complete and pass a test that demonstrates skill
jojobs bs
Many good-paying health care jobs do not require a college degree. One example is cardiovascular technology. Certification can be obtained from a health care institution or technical school in a year to 18 months. Along with good pay, health care jobs typically have great benefits. Also, they are portable. Once young people receive their job training, they can work almost anywhere!
Get down to business First, explain that you would like to “learn about the career opportunities in their department.” Second, explain why you chose their companyperhaps you know someone who works there, you’re familiar with their good name or reputation, or you’ve used their products. Third, ask if the manager could spare some time to explore career opportunities with you.
and knowledge in your field. This certificate serves two purposes. It rewards you for good performance in your technical studies, and is also a credential for obtaining a job after high school. Employers know that a prospective employee with a Pennsylvania Skills Certificate has the skills to do the job and to do it well.
ts ta S Stats Midldle Jobs Expected to Grow 200% through 2014 6,000 Projected Openings per yeart n Pennsylvania Many Jobs openings “Non Care Giver Behind The Scenes” Technical Posions PA Pathfinders 13
Have a Career in Mind?
Try It Out First. The Road
“Find something you enjoy doing, and then find a way to get paid doing it.” That was the simple, yet profound, advice a mentor once offered his young protégé. Too often, however, students and career seekers do the opposite: They decide on a high-paying or high-prestige job first, and then try to make themselves “like” the job or the course of study necessary to obtain it. Or, they choose an occupation based on what sounds good (or that others want them to pursue) rather than a career that’s actually something they’d enjoy doing. The key is to learn more about various occupations and determine which ones appeal to you. But if you’re still in school, or between careers, how do you do that? Luckily, there are several ways to gain information and experience in fields you might find interesting.
Part-time Employment
A part-time job offers many advantages beyond earning some extra money. It’s also a way to gain valuable experience in a particular field – experience that will allow you to judge whether you’d like to make the job your career. As a bonus, performing well at your job will earn you good references for future employment.
Volunteer Work
While it doesn’t provide a paycheck, serving as a volunteer is another way to gain experience in a certain field before deciding to pursue it as a career. It’s also an opportunity to give back to the community while building your ,résumé. Many employers – particularly those in the human services field welcome enthusiastic volunteers who offer their time in exchange for work experience.
School Clubs
Many schools have clubs that focus on specific careers and cater to students interested in those fields. Student clubs often host guest speakers, arrange workplace tours and sponsor trips to conferences and competitions – all of which are excellent opportunities for résumé building and networking. 14 PA Pathfinders
Community Agencies
If there is a YMCA, YWCA or similar agency in you community, check to see what type of classes they offer. This is a way to become exposed to wide range of experiences, one of which could inspire you enough to consider a career in the field.
Internships
Internships are temporary working arrangements – usually offered to students – made with a company or organization. An internship may last a few weeks or a few months, and can be paid or unpaid. Often, they are done for college credit, depending on the circumstances. Completing an internship will give you valuable work experience, a résumé credit, a good reference and professional contacts.
REGIONAL CAREER EDUCATION PARTNERSHIPS FOR YOUTH
(RCEPs)
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania established Regional Career Education Partnerships for Youth (RCEPs) to help students make informed choices about the education and training they need to pursue careers right for them. These RCEPs work to give students better opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills critical for success in college and the workplace. Over the past two years, almost 235,000 students have connected to more than 9,000 businesses that provide them with career awareness and work-based learning opportunities like job shadowing, mentoring, paid and unpaid internships and apprenticeships. Employers also visit classrooms to discuss the knowledge, skills and education level they expect their employees to possess. Experiences like these,
combined with rigorous academics and careerrelated skills development, will better prepare students for post-secondary education, and ultimately their career.
Job
Shadowing Job shadowing allows you to directly observe someone at work. You can observe firsthand the dayto-day activities you would be pe forming in a particular job, as well as learn what skills you would need to obtain it. Acting as a shadow also gives you a chance to ask any questions you might have about the job and how to prepare for it. Go to www. jobshadow.org for more information.
hat’s W What’s & SO H o N t OT Hot Hot & NOT Hot Occupations Projected to Grow In PA
Occupations Projected to Decline In PA
• Nursing
• Sewing Machine Operators
• Technicians
• Credit Authorizers, Checkers & Clerks
• Health Informatics
• Photographic Processing, Operators • Coil Winders, Tapers & Finishers
• Home Health Aides
• Sewers, Hand
• Veterinary Technicians
• Telephone Operators
• Dental Hygienists • EMT’s & Paramedics • Physician Assistants
• Textile Cutting Machine Operators • Extruding & Machine Operators, • Order Clerks • Machine Feeders & Offbearers
Source: PA 2014 Employment Projections Source: PA 2014 Emp
PA Pathfinders 15
Career Profile ofile
MEDICAL MEDICAL SONOG ER
R H A PHER P A R G O N SO What will I do?
Sonographers, also called ultrasonographers, operate special equipment that uses sound waves to produce images to detect a medical problem or monitor a patient’s condition. Ultrasonography during pregnancy is the best-known use of these tests, but sonography is also used to check many other parts of the body. Sonographers position patients on the exam table to obtain the best view and they often spread a special gel on the skin to help the equipment pick up sound waves. They select what images to show the doctor, they take measurements, and they write a basic report on their findings. Many sonographers work in hospitals, but it’s also common for them to work in labs or medical centers.
What training will I need?
There are several ways to become a sonographer. Many hospitals, vocationaltechnical schools, and colleges offer training in diagnostic medical sonography. Another training option is the Armed Forces.High school graduates with math and science skills are good prospects.
How can I get it?
Colleges and universities offer two- and four-year degree programs, but two-year programs are most common. Sonographer who train in a special area, such as pregnancy ultrasound, often train in other areas as well. States generally don’t require a license for diagnostic medical sonographers, but employers usually hire those who have taken a recognized test that registers them with organizations such as the American Registry for Medical Sonography.
What will I get paid? Pay for diagnostic medical sonographers is comparable to other health occupations requiring a twoyear degree. The medium range is about $52,000 annually. The lowest 10% of salaries were less than $37,800 while the highest topped out at more than $72,000.
just stt the fa th the facts ju just fact jus cts fac tss 16 PA Pathfinders
Career Profile
LICENSED L A C I T C A R P nnurse urse What will I do?
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) care for persons who mare recovering from a sickness, are disabled or injured or live in a care facility such as a hospital or nursing home. LPNs need to be caring people who are able to make decisions and to observe for, and recognize, signs of health troubles. Wherever they work, LPNs give important basic care. For example, an LPN checks the person’s temperature and pulse, draws blood samples and tests them, and helps the person move from a wheelchair to the bed.Also, the LPN adds information to a medical chart and pays attention to written instructions.Usually, LPNs put in 40 hours a week and shifts may include evenings and weekends.
What training do I need?
An LPN needs a license in nursing. To get this license means finishing an officially approved program that trains LPNs, which generally takes a year or so, and passing a test on LPN job skills. Classes in chemistry, biology and psychology are usually necessary. Mainly, the focus is on learning basic skills in nursing and knowing how the body works.
How will I get the training?
About 1,100 centers offer LPN programs. These include technical and vocational schools, community colleges and “junior” colleges that offer degrees for schooling of about two years. Some high schools and hospitals train students to become LPNs. The schooling involves both class work and clinical training, usually in a hospital.
What will I get paid?
This area of medicine is expected to grow rapidly as more people become elderly or too ill to live on their own. In 2002, annual salaries for LPNs paid in the middle of the pay scale ranged from $26,430 to $37,050.A low salary was $22,860; a high salary was about $44,000.
just stt the fa th the facts ju just fact jus cts fac tss PA Pathfinders 17
e ems paramedmiscs PARAMEDICS
Career Profile Career Profile
What will I do?
Working closely with emergency medical technicians (EMTs), paramedics manage the health of patients until they can be examined by a doctor to get further help. On any shift, their patients might be a woman having a heart attack, a man who broke a bone in a car accident and a child struggling to breathe. First paramedics check the patient’s overall condition. Then they work quickly to stabilize the patient by stopping bleeding or giving fluids into the patient’s vein or using tools to restore a heartbeat. Both paramedics and EMTs follow set rules for medical care. Paramedics work both indoors and outdoors. Because health care must be available 24 hours of every day and doesn’t stop when a work shift ends, paramedics may spend 45 to 60 hours a week on the job.
What training do I need?
Usually, a paramedic student first becomes an EMT.An EMT has between 110 and 400 hours of training, a paramedic has 1,000 hours or more.A paramedic student must be able to handle the physical parts of the job.Also, they may be registered or certified through different groups.
How will I get the training?
Paramedic training is offered at many places, such as community colleges, hospitals, technical schools and fire and police academies. Some programs are designed to be part of the schooling for a bachelor’s degree of science, or EMT and paramedic training may be rolled into one program.
What will I be paid? Most paramedic jobs pay between $20,000 and $33,200. Paramedics who were paid a salary in the lowest 10% of wages for this work received about $15,500; those paid among the highest 10% got about $42,000.
just stt the fa th the facts ju just fact jus cts fac tss 18 PA Pathfinders
Career Profile ofile
TECHNICIAN TEC H N I C I A N cardiology cardiology What will I do? Technician opportunities in health care offer exciting positions at the front lines of medicine that can usually be had with a two-year degree from a community college. Careers as cardiovascular technicians and veterinary technicians are two examples. Cardiovascular technicians help physicians with certain tests and treatments that involve surgery. They are also trained to independently performtests that do not involve surgery.Veterinary technicians do many procedures on animals and teach their owners how to keep them healthy. Then there are the technicians who work in medical equipment laboratories, away from patient settings. These technicians play important roles in making dentures and other custom-made dental fittings, as well as other items that patients depend on.
What training do I need and how do I get it?
Most jobs for technicians in hospitals and clinics require a two-year degree; a few schools offer four-year degrees. Those who graduate from cardiovascular technology programs are required to take a certification test.Veterinary technicians may also need to pass a state exam after their training. On the other hand, medical equipment technicians typically receive their training on the job, though more community colleges are offering specialized training.While certification is not always mandatory for these jobs, employers sometimes prefer to hire those who have passed such tests.
What will I get paid?
A mid-range salary for a veterinary technician is about $23,000; for a cardiovascular technician, the average salary is about $38,000. Among laboratory technicians, those who work in dentistry average more per year than those in other medical equipment fields. Dental laboratory technicians make roughly $29,000, while medical appliance technicians make about $25,700 and those who work with eyeglasses and contacts make about $22,000.
just stt the fa th the facts ju just fact jus cts fac tss PA Pathfinders 19
Career Profile
PHYSICAL L A C I S Y ocPtHtherapist herapist What will I do?
Physical therapists help people with mobility problems get on their feet again after sickness or injury. They use exercises and special equipment to help patients get stronger and move better. The goal is for people to take care of themselves in their homes and, if possible, return to their regular activities. Physical therapists note progress and change the routine as needed. Physical therapists work closely with doctors, nurses and other medical experts. Physical therapists mainly work in hospitals, clinics and nursing homes. Others do most of their work with athletes, kids, people with heart problems or older people.
What training will I need and how can I get it?
In high school, science and physical education are a good background for a future physical therapist. Because physical therapists must communicate with many people about a patient’s progress, writing and speech are also good courses to take. Some teens volunteer to help their school athletic trainers. Becoming a physical therapist requires a bachelor’s degree, followed by a master’s degree in physical therapy. Students start with basic classes such as biology and chemistry.As they progress, they take classes about diseases, how to examine a patient and how to work with patients. At the end of training, students must pass a national exam to get their physical therapy license.
What will I get paid?
Starting salaries for physical therapists are higher than many other health jobs. The average salary for a physical therapist is about $60,000. The lowest 10% of salaries are less than $42,000 and the highest 10% are more than $88,000. Salary sometimes depends on where the physical therapist works. Those who work for home health care services make slightly more than those who work in hospitals, clinics or nursing homes.
just stt the fa th the facts ju just fact jus cts fac tss 20 PA Pathfinders
Career Profile ofile
HOME HEALTH home aide hea lth aide What will I do?
Many people who are frail, sick or disabled would prefer to receive their care in the comfort of their homes, rather than a nursing home or medical facility. Comfort is important, but home care also makes good financial sense. Home health care aides are the ones who make it safe and pleasant for patients to stay at home. Under the supervision of nurses or medical staff, home health aides provide basic, yet crucial, health services including checking pulse, respiration and temperature. They also help patients take their medications, bathe and change their position in bed or assist them with moving around the house.
What training will I need and how can I get it?
Most home health aides are employed by home care agencies. A high school diploma or equivalent is usually needed, but some agencies hire high school students for part-time jobs. Newly hired aides usually receive classroom training from their employer or they receive on-the-job instruction from licensed nurses or more experienced aides. Because Medicare covers home care for many patients, the federal government has set a competency test for home health aides. It suggests that training includes at least 75 hours of classroom and practical training supervised by a registered nurse. The National Association for Home Care offers a voluntary national certification for home care aides.
How much will I earn? Pay ranges from about $8.50 per hour to $10.50 per hour. Home health aides typically get higher pay based on experience and responsibility. The job can help employees decide if they want to pursue other training as a licensed practical nurse or medical assistant.
just stt the fa th the facts ju just fact jus cts fac tss PA Pathfinders 21
Career Profile
INFORMATICS INspecialist FORcMiAaTlIiCsSt spe What will I do?
Informatics is a hard term to pin down, but it basically means turning a vast amount of data into useful information. Informatics specialists then use the information to solve problems or design new technology procedures or products. In health care there are two main branches of informatics. One–known as bioinformatics– mainly focuses on molecular topics. The other branch of health care informatics involves larger scale data, such as the study of populations. Bioinformatics specialists typically work in labs, especially at genetics centers, at universities or for private corporations. An example of the work of specialists in the other type of health care informatics includes detecting cancer trends from a vast collection of medical reports. Another is developing electronic tracking systems or working with financial data.
What training will I need?
Bioinformatics specialists usually need an advanced degree in a science such as biology or genetics, plus a heavy-duty background in computer languages and programming. A good source for finding schools that offer bioinformatics training is the Bioinformatics Organization, Inc., at www. bioinformatics.org. Students who seek training in the more broad type of health care informatics have several options. Training is available at many ranges for many types of jobs within the field, from technical school degrees to master’s degrees and beyond. The American Medical Informatics Association posts a helpful list of training opportunities at www.amia.org/informatics/ acad&training.
What will I get paid? Solid information on salaries in health care informatics is scarce because the field is so diverse. Pay in both types of informatics generally corresponds to the number of years of schooling and experience.
just stt the fa th the facts ju just fact jus cts fac tss 22 PA Pathfinders
s k c e h c y pa paychecks p a y c h e c k s PAY p ay
ATTENTION TEACHERS…
The pay scale for jobs in health care differs widely.Here is a sampling of medical professionals and what they were paid in 2004.The good news is that salaries are expected to increase by about 27% between 2004 and 2014. POSITION MEDIAN* SALARY IN U.S. Ambulance driver $19,400 Audiologist $53,000 Biology teacher, secondary $46,100 Biomedical engineer $48,503 Chemist $57,100 Chiropractor $69,910 Clinical laboratory technologist $46,700 Counselor,mental health $33,400 Dental hygienist $59,100 Dental laboratory technician $34,600 Dentist $129,920 Diagnostic medical sonographer $53,600 Dietitian $44,400 Embalmer $34,700 Epidemiologist $52,500 Forensic science technician $44,400 Genetic counselor $52,380 Health educator $39,700 Home health aide $18,600 Licensed practical nurse $34,700 Medical database administrator $61,900 Medical equipment repairer $38,600 Medical transcriptionist $28,600 Nursing aide, orderly, attendant $21,200 Obstetrician & gynecologist $145,600+ Occupational therapist $55,600 Optometrist $88,300 Paramedic $25,600 Patent lawyer $97,400 Pharmacy aide $19,000 Physical therapist assistant $38,300 Physician assistant $69,200 Psychiatric technician $25,700 Psychologist $56,400 Radiologic technologist $44,700 Registered nurse $53,600 Senior government executive $141,800 Social worker, child, family $35,000 Veterinarian 68,300 *MEDIAN REFERS TO THE SALARY HALF WAY BETWEEN THE HIGHEST AND THE LOWEST SALARIES. SOURCE:NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH OFFICE OF SCIENCE EDUCATION, SCIENCE.EDUCATION.NIH.GOV/LIFEWORKS.NSF/EDUCATION.HTM.
Inside the classroom a teacher’s influence can be profound. Each student who pursues a health care career will help improve the lives of hundreds of people. Teachers can raise students’ awareness of health care careers by weaving the topic into science classes or even those that touch on life skills or economics.
Classroom Activities • Invite guest speakers to talk to students. Connecting a friendly face
with a job title is a great way to introduce health care careers to young people. Ask your students if they have a family member or friend who would be willing to speak. Hospitals, medical groups, and schools that offer health care career training have lists of speakers who are happy to share their job experiences with students.Many are quite willing to be contacted afterwards if students have further questions.
• A fun idea is to explore how the role of hand washing influences the
spread of disease. At the start of class, have one student dip his or her hands into Glo Germ, a powder that represents pathogens and glows under ultraviolet light (DMA International,Moab, Utah, www.glogerm.com). Then give students an activity thatinvolves the sharing of equipment, and examine each student’s hands under anultraviolet light. For each student, record the areas of the hands that lit up under the light. Follow-up with a discussion on how cleaning equipment and hands between uses could have slowed the spread of the powder. A detailed lesson plan is available on the National Library of Medicine’s Changing Faces of Medicine site (www.nlm.nih.gov/changingthefaceofmedici ne/).
• Take a field trip to a hospital or a medical research lab. If that’s not
possible, take a virtual field trip by having students visit the Website for the Public Broadcasting Service series Children’s PA Pathfinders 23
What’s It Really Like
Career Profile ofile
TECHNICIAN TEC HNIioClo I A N cardiology gy card Q: What do you do every day? A. We do cardiac catheterization on individuals who come in and possibly have heart disease. At Sentara, cardiovascular technicians work in three different http://www.southeas tech.edu/SiteCollectionImages/Ultrasound. jpg roles with the cardiologists.We pass sterile equipment and help them do the procedure.We monitor and chart the vital signs and the hemodynamics [blood circulation].We also hand off sterile equipment and give medication under the doctor’s orders. Q: What training did you do for your job? A. My program was 18 months, but they’ve shortened it to 12 months. It’s a little bit different than going to a university, where you pick your classes. It’s all structured for you. You do classroom work and get hands-on experience. Q: What do you like most about your job? A. I love the people I work with. I also love the challenge. Every patient is different. Every case is different. Everybody reacts differently to medications. Everybody’s anatomy is different. Q: What kind of personality types do best in this job? A. I think you definitely have to be outgoing. You have to be able to communicate well, because sometimes things happen suddenly in the lab. You also have to be quick on your feet. I used to waitress, and it reminds me of that. You have to be able to multitask and do everything. 24 PA Pathfinders
Career Profile ofile
HOME HEALTH home aide healt h aide Q: What’s the most interesting thing you do? A. Educating clients about how to care for their pets. A lot of people think being a vet tech means working with animals only, but I actually work with people more. Q: What do you do on a typical day? A. We see appointments in the morning, which range from routine vaccinations to yearly exams to sick patients. I take the animal’s health history and temperature if needed. I also pull up any meds that are necessary and help restrain the animal during treatment. And I pull blood for lab work and heartworm tests.Of course, I also do a lot of nail trims, ear cleanings, x-rays and lab tests. After morning appointments, I assist the vet with surgery. I prep the surgical site, hook the patient up to an EKG machine and monitor the animal. After surgery,we see more appointments. Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job? A. I really like orthopedic surgery.When an animal comes in with a badly broken leg, I love to help repair it and then over time watch the patient recover and walk again. I also love to see puppies and kittens become healthy adults. It’s really exciting to see them turn out so well and know that we played a part. http://my.inmagine. com/600wmz/62694362514256/comstock/kss010/pr84131.jpg
Career Profile
INFORMATICS INspecialist FORM AT IC S t s i l a i c spe Informatics Every day in health care, an astonishing amount of information is constantly being collected—details that tally everything from births to blood pressures to sensors in a pacemaker.Advances in computer technology have made it possible to better manage, analyze and make use of all this health data.This has produced a new field broadly known as medical informatics. Researchers use specialized computer programs to track disease outbreaks or identify cancer patterns.Others work in research labs and use powerful computers to analyze DNA sequences. Some entry-level jobs in health informatics require a college degree in computer science. Those who specialize in a certain areas such as public health often seek advanced degrees. Specialists in bioinformatics usually have advanced degrees in one of the sciences plus a strong computer background. Bioinformatics specialists usually need an advanced degree in a science such as biology or genetics, plus a heavy-duty background in computer languages and programming. A good source for finding schools that offer bioinformatics training is the Bioinformatics Organization, Inc., at www.bioinformatics.org. Students who seek training in the more broad type of health care informatics have several options. Training is available at many ranges for many types of jobs within the field, from technical school degrees to master’s degrees and beyond. The American Medical Informatics Association posts a helpful list of training opportunities at www.amia.org/informatics/ acad&training.
Career Profile ofile
MEDICAL MEDICAL SONOG ER
RP AH PHER SONOGRA Q: How did you get interested in becoming a dental lab technician? A. I have a friend in the industry, and he arranged for me to visit several labs.What I discovered is that dental technicians blend science, technology and art to create prostheses. I’m pretty artistic, and I was looking for a career where I could create something useful from nothing. So becoming a dental tech seemed like a good idea. Plus the technology they use is pretty amazing. Q: What do dental lab technicians do? A. They create dental prostheses like tooth implants, porcelain crowns, bridges and dentures.The first step is to create a coping, which is the base for the prosthesis. The coping moves through various departments— model,waxing, casting, porcelain, metal finishing and others—to become a finished product. It’s actually a complex process that requires highly skilled technicians. What’s really great is that most labs provide on-the-job training so a tech can gain those skills. Q: What’s a day at work like for you? A. Right now I’m working on a special project that’s sort of hush-hush. It involves testing new, digital manufacturing technology that makes copings. I’m working closely with the manufacturer to fine-tune certain elements.The great thing about the technology is that it enables a technician to produce many more copings in a shorter time frame. Once it’s released, it’s going to revolutionize the industry.
The Inside Scoop
PA Pathfinders 25
To-Do List for High School Students
Prep for
The BIG Q
If you’re in your Junior or Senior year in high school, you have a lot to think about: Am I headed for college, vocational training or right into the workforce? How am I going to navigate the path I choose? Consider this list more of a guide than actual rules. The To-Do list is divided into two sections:
1. What to do BEFORE your senior year begins: • Take a skills or interest test to learn a bit about yourself. What are you good at?What do you enjoy doing? • When you find a career path that interests you, learn more about it. You might find it’s exactly what you want to do, or find that the dayto-day work would bore you.
26 PA Pathfinders
What am I going to do after graduation?
• Make sure you take classes that fit your career goals. • Take the Preliminary SAT (PSAT), which is good practice for the SAT. A good score on the PSAT could qualify you for a National Merit Scholarship. • Be sure to get involved in part-time or volunteer work and extra-curricular activities. These sorts of things can give you valuable experience in learning about yourself. They also look good on a résumé. • Consider taking the Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, especially if you plan to enlist in the military after high school.
• Attend college fairs, career fairs and job fairs held at or near your school. These are great ways to gain information about prospective careers, as well as network with people in the field.
• Near the end of your junior year, review your transcript to make sure you will complete the classes you need to graduate! • Finally, during the summer between your junior and senior years, if you plan on going to college, begin to narrow down your list of choices. This will keep your application fees to a minimum down the road. Also, if you are considering a school out of the area, the summer might be a good time to make a campus visit. Accomplishing these things before your senior year will give you a sense of direction and purpose as you complete your high school education. Now, here’s a look at what you should do during your senior year, based on your chosen career path.
KEY: C = Four-year college bound T = Other postsecondary training W = Going right into the workforce
SEPTEMBER
DECEMBER
MARCH
C Get your applications and financial aid information from the schools you are interested in attending. Find out whether the schools you’re looking at prefer the ACT or the SAT. Register for tests and look into taking a practice exam. Now is also the time to begin asking if teachers, bosses or other people will be wiliing to write letters of recommendation for you.
C Sign up for spring administrations of the SAT or ACT. Pick up a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Strudent Aid) form. You’ll also want to check to make sure your SAT or ACT scores have gotten to your schools of choice.
C Watch the mail. You should be hearing back from
T Figure out where you want to be a year from now,
and plan to get training in that field. Learn as much about that field as you can, including getting a parttime job or volunteering in that field.
W Take an interests or skills test (similar to the one we provide in this guide) and talk to a career counselor to get an idea of what kind of work you want to do.
T Begin visiting the schools you’re interested in attending. W Make sure you’ve polished your résumé. The Christmas break is a good time to put that résumé to use in getting a part-time job, hopefully in a field that interests you.
schools soon. You should also be receiving your Student Aid Report (SAR) in response to any finanacial aid applications. The SAR can also be e-mailed if you list an e-mail address on your FAFSA, so watch for it there too.
T Finish any applications to schools with late deadlines, and watch your mail for replies from the schools you’ve applied to. W Time to start learning even more about potential employers. Research companies that are in your field to see what kinds of jobs they have and how you might fit in with them. This kind of homework isn’t just about learning where to apply. Having this knowledge will come in handy when you’re interviewing.
OCTOBER
JANUARY
APRIL
C ‘Tis the season for college visits, especially to nearby colleges. Many colleges have college fairs, which are a good opportunity to get more information and any forms you might still need. Take the ACT if any schools on your list require it.
C Work on your FAFSA forms. FAFSA forms require
C Wait until you’ve heard from your preferred school
T Make a list of deadlines. Begin applying to schools and start assembling your writing samples or portfolio, whichever the case may be.
T Continue watching the mail for acceptance letters
W Work on planning a budget for yourself. Figure out
THEIR PERMISSION BEFORE LISTING THEM! Teachers, coaches, counselors and employers are all good choices. Make sure to get a summertime or home phone number for those who will be on vacation during the summer.
NOVEMBER
FEBRUARY
MAY
C Begin working on your college essays or writing samples, and be sure to have someone proofread them for you. Take the SAT if any schools on your list require it. Submit applications for early decision/early action programs. If you plan on entering an ROTC program, the application is due December 1.
C If you haven’t already done so, complete the FAFSA
C Make your final college choice. Decline any offers that other colleges have made to you, so the spot being held for you can be given to the next person in line. Take any Advanced Placement (AP) exams.
T Figure out how post-high school training fits in
with your career plans. What kinds of training will you need to do what you want to do, and how long will it take?
W Figure out and list for yourself your strengths, experiences and accomplishments. Also list any jobs you might have had in the past. Keep in mind jobs you know you wouldn’t want to do, so you don’t waste your time focusing on jobs that don’t interest you.
T Start researching what schools will have the training programs that you’ll need to get into your field of choice. W Take the list of strengths, experiences and accomplishments on which you’ve been working and begin assembling your résumé.
a good deal of tax-related information, so you’ll need your parents to gather that well before April 15. Also, begin a serious hunt for outside scholarships.
what your fixed expenses are likely to be, and don’t forget to budget for incidental expenses that crop up from time to time. This is good practice, whatever your future plans may be.
forms and send them to your schools of choice. Make a list for yourself, ranking your college choices.
T Continue the application process, keeping any deadlines in mind. W Work on your résumé again, including your most recent part-time employment. Remember, you’re about to step up to full-time employment, so think about what it is you want your résumé to say about you, and revise it again.
before you decline any offers. Also, make sure to meet any other deadlines, such as for housing or more financial aid.
and financial aid offers from schools.
W Talk to the people you want to use as references. GET
T Be prepared to begin any training or courses that might start before the usual fall semester begins. W Get ready to get a job. Yes, that sounds daunting,
but that’s what you’ve been building up to all year long. Prepare some cover letters and practice interviewing, then get out there. A final piece of advice: don’t just jump at the first job that comes along. Be sure to choose the job that fits both your needs and your skills.
PA Pathfinders 27
Welcome To
The Real World the
p p A b Jo
- Use a pen unless a pencil is required. - Print all information legibly or type the form if possible.
- Keep a copy of your completed application so you can review it before your interview.
- Emphasize your positive education, work and military experience.
- Answer all questions. If a question does not apply to your background, then write “N/A,” or “Not Applicable.”
- Account for all gaps in your work history by stating your major activity during those times such as “job hunting,” or “caring for a parent.”
- Focus on volunteer work, hobbies or training if they are job related and you have little work experience.
Keep A Clear Head Always carry with you a pocket size PERSONAL FACT SHEET :
• Social Security number • Names, addresses and telephone numbers of your spouse and/or close family members • Schools attended, addresses and dates attended (in Chronological order) • Hobbies Intresets Extracuilar activities 28 PA Pathfinders
• Names, addresses and telephone numbers of references • Past employment, dates employed, salary history and reason for leaving (in Chronological order)
Smart Accesories Have copies of transcripts, letters of recommendation and other documents ready to attach to your application form. Have your résumé available in case you need it for information or to submit with your application.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS Lasting Impressions
You Get 30 seconds. No second Chances!
Your Appearance is your statement If you look neat and dean,theimpression is
POWER accomplished
arranged achieved advised assembled acquired analyzed assisted adapted appraised audited adjusted approved augmented administered arbitrated authored Collaborated
accelerated accomplished achieved addressed administered
advised allocated
answered appeared applied appointed appraised approved arranged assessed assigned assisted assumed assured audited awarded bought briefed broadened brought budgeted built cataloged caused changed chaired clarified classified-
that you take pride In yourdl and your work. I f you looklike a slob, It ltnplies that you might b* a sloppywofkec.msum applies to the appearance o4 your job application. Your attttuck nukes a statement.Ifyouact ¥mhusiwticanduoor,K impression Is that you're an anttiusiastk and mgor worfor. H you act too timid or too quirt. It Implies that youmeyneedalotof swenriston. Your manm make a ¥tatemeo If you're courteous and thoughtful, It wthatyougetalong* wople and you him a respect for seniority. Create a Good Impression gratulations, you're decide whether or not want to keep you c"on your way to your this person will fit in away-regardless of
WORDS
closed collected combined commented communicated compared compiled completed computed conceived concluded conducted conceptualized considered
consolidated
constructed consulted continued contracted controlled converted coordinated corrected counseled
first interview. with you and your your skills and abilitiesNow, before you grab group of friends. If they JI 1 ~y^ u g ~ your coat and bolt out don't fit in, you'll tend the door, keep in mhd to keep them away. that first impressions There are three basic are very, very, imoor- haLveik teh ese a-ebmil ities too thing that mold an Wtarxtte~hdwttb -- Think about it: Youmeet someone new. You size them up. In about a minute or two you cansizingupple up. They see lots of fob applicants. Their first impsions are formed by what they see and sense in you If they don't like what they see, they'll ance, your attitude, and your manners. Projectthe wrong impressionand you won't fit in. Project the right impressfon and you have a ighting chance.
Smart Accesories TIPS FOR A CONVINCING COVER
Address the letter to a specific person, not “Dear Director.” Make an extra phone call if necessary. State what you can accomplish for the company, help your career. Don’t overuse “I” throughout the letter. Print on paper matching your résumé. Your public can use to create professional-looking documents. Use correct spelling, grammar and punctuation.Be clear and brief, but give enough information your qualifications for the job. Write a separate letter for each job opening. Sign the letter boldly. A signature in blue ink shows simply a photocopy.
Super Charge Your Job Application, Cover letter, Resume, Begin Sentecnes With:
counted created critiqued cut decided defined delegated delivered demonstrated described designed determined developed devised diagnosed directed discussed distributed documented
doubled drafted earned edited effected eliminated
endorsed enlarged enlisted ensured entered established estimated evaluated examined executed expanded expedited experenced experimented
explained explored expressed extended filed filled financed focused forecast formulated found founded gathered generated
graded granted guided halved handled helped identified implemented improved
incorporated increased
indexed initiated influenced innovated inspected installed instituted instructed insured interpreted interviewed introduced invented invested
investigated
involved issued joined kept launched learned leased lectured led licensed listed logged made maintained managed matched measured mediated met modified monitored motivated moved named navigated negotiated observed
opened operated ordered organized oversaw participated perceived performed persuaded planned prepared presented processed procured programmed prohibited projected promoted proposed provided published purchased pursued qualified questioned
raised ranked rated realized received recommended reconciled recorded recruited redesigned reduced regulated rehabilitated related reorganized repaired replaced replied reported represented researched resolved
responded restored revamped reviewed revise saved scheduled selected served serviced set set up shaped shared showed simplified sold solved sorted sought sparked specified spoke staffed started streamlined
strengthened stressed stretched structured studied submitted substituted succeeded suggested summarized superseded supervised surveyed systematized tackled targeted taught terminated tested took toured traced tracked traded
trained transferred transcribed transformed translated transported treated trimmed tripled turned tutored umpired uncovered understood unified unraveled updated upgraded used utilized verbalized verified visited waged weighed won
PA Pathfinders 29
The A List Resume
Imagine recieving 200 and 500 resumes for a singleJob Opening An Affective Resume is Like A great advertsiment. It’sShort,easy aand delivers the the sale s pitch: “i’m your guy or gal! I’m qualified ! I’m worth the call for an interview alified, I want the job, interview
Include
1. Contact Info: your name, home and college addresses, telephone numbers and e-mail addresses. Keep the e-mail address protessional and avoid all nicknames 2. The Main Point: List an objective of what you want and specifically what you can do. Do vour homework on each employer Check Web sites to tailor your resume to each job 3. Schooling Studnets new grads should list education first.first Indicate vour GPA if it is 3 0 or better, as well as your major, minor and your date ot graduation 4. Class Act: List all relevant coursework. Don't include random general education classes, instead focus on the meat of vour majors curriculum 5. Strut your stuff: Transferable skils such as organization writing abilitv and multitasking look great for and position Be sure to include all computer programs that your comfortable using. 6. Prove your Point: Relavnt work expericne should be listed in reverse chronological order. Enhance accomplishment oriented
experience by using action wolds such as, Coordinated volunteer services at Volunteer and unpaid experience counts too. 7. Be Involved: Additional information is the sweet spot in the resume where you can list fluency in foreign languages, memberships in relevant professional organizations, leadership positions and activities related to the job objective. Recruiters don't want to know everything about you at this point, leave out your aerobics schedule and obsession with the Philadelphia Eagles! 8. Brag alittle: If you've made the Dean's list, won any noteworthy contests, were published in your college's newspaper, add it in! 9.The Finale: Do not give out names of references but indicate that "references are available upon request." If you have a portfolio of your work, also include that in this teaser. Never send originals to a future employer; but rather photocopies of your work, it requested. 10.What Counts: Every word matters on a one-page resume and neatness counts. Write clearly, use simple English and check
spelling. Don't use slang and avoid jargon. Most important: Be HONEST! Embellished truth will come back to haunt vou.
Crack The Mental Block
Get the Juices Flowing
Skills, Abliities, Experince Excersise: Begin each statement with a power word Name the hrsi skifl needed tor your occupation;____________________________ Gwe an exampkle of how you used it:________________________________________________________________________________ Give another example;____________________________________________________________________________________________ Give another example:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Mama the second skill needed tor your occupation;___________________________ Give an example ol how yw uusd it._________________________________________________________________________________ Give another example.___________________________________________________________________________________________ Give another example;___________________________________________________________________________________________ Name the third skill needed for your occupation;_______________________________ Give an example of hw you used it:__________________________________________________________________________________ Give another example;___________________________________________________________________________________________ 30 PA Pathfinders
PA Pathfinders 31
FIRSTJOB InterVIEW Destination
Make the most of it....be sure to: Know the company, prepare your answers, Sell yourself, practice interviewing with a friend, parent, mentor, be genuine and passionate about the opportunity. ments, skills and goals. It should sound natural, not rehearsed. • Be prepared for “dangerous” questions. Know in advance how you’ll answer questions about lack of experience, job-hopping history and gaps in employment. • Practice answers to anticipated questions. Almost all questions fall into one of the following seven categories:
1. Are you trustworthy? Key Words: personal qualities; “who are you” 2. Can you do the job? Key Words: skills, abilities, strengths, situation OK, you’ve landed a job interview. Now it’s important to make the most of the opportunity. The best way to do that is to be prepared. Here are some suggestions for what to do between the time an interview is scheduled and when it actually occurs:
3. Will you really work at the job? Key Words: initiative, attitude
• Research the company and industry. Make sure you know some facts about the company’s history, what products or services they offer and the industry they serve.
6. Are you safe? Key Words: conflict, stress
• Memorize a one- to two-minute commercial about yourself. Be ready to sell yourself with a summary of your education, achieve32 PA Pathfinders
4. Will you fit in? Key Words: relations, co-workers, boss, customers 5. Will you leave soon? Key Words: future, plans, goals, objectives
7. Can I afford you? Key Words: benefits, salary, over time, compensation
DO:
•Go alone. •Arrive about 10 minutesearly. •Be clean and well groomed. •Address the interviewer by name. •Smile and shake hands firmly. •Listen carefully and be interested. •Maintain good eye contact. •Take time to think about your answers to interview questions. •Speak clearly and use proper grammar. •Ask for clarification if you do not understand a question. •Be positive. •Stress your qualifications for the job. •Express your readiness to undertake the job duties. •Ask when a hiring decision will be made. •Thank the interviewer(s) for their time.
DON’T:
•Speak too fast. •Interrupt the interviewer. •Fold your arms. •Sit with your arms or legs far apart. •Smoke or chew anything, even if invited to do so. •Say, “I’ll take anything.” •Fiddle with pens, paper or desk items. •Ask about salary. •Criticize your former employers or teachers. •Discuss personal or financial problems. •Provide information that is not true. •Beg for the job or hang around after the interview. •Sit down until you are asked.
Resume Sin's Listing objectives or meaningless introductions: Vague objectives and overly general introductions don’t tell the reader anything of value, wasting their time and valuable résumé space. Tell them who you are and what you do with a single, clear statement. Written either in the first or third person: Using the first- or third-person voice risks turning your résumé into a narrative – from a short summary of your qualifications into a second, redundant cover letter. Important information is too hard to find or absent: Many employers see hundreds of applications a day and simply skim résumés. If some piece of information about you is important, make sure it’s easily seen. Too long: A résumé is not a second cover letter. You want to
concisely state your qualifications for the job, your work history and your accomplishments. But don’t overdo it. The ability to be concise is looked upon favorably by most employers. Personal information not relevant to the job: There are times, such as when your hobby is related to the job you are seeking, that including personal information can help you. Most times, however, don’t include information that can be wrongly interpreted or open the door to some type of prejudice on the part of the résumé reviewer. Too duty oriented with accomplishments not highlighted: A list of duties from a previous job just reads like a job description. Instead, briefly describe some of your accomplishments, which give the résumé a personal flavor while
Da Dont's highlighting your talents and initiative. Unprofessional e-mail addresses: The résumé is your first contact with the employer in the hiring process, so try to make a good impression. An e-mail address that is the same as your name will
do just that. “HotPants021” won’t. Gaps in employment: In the interest of brevity, don’t explain gaps in your employment in the résumé. Leave that for the cover letter, but be ready to again explain the gaps in your interview.
Most people don't get the job they want because they don't sell themselves. SellYourself
Most interviews begin with the question, "Tell me about yourself.'' Talk about your accomplishments, skills, and abilities- NOT your childhood, family, hobbies, or interests.
SellYourself Show some enthu-
siasm. Participate in the conversation. Use examples or stories to explain what you mean. Look the manager in the eye. Sit on the edge of your seat. Use your hands to il-
lustrate what you mean. Smile. Add humor.
SellYourself-
Show what you can do for the company. You know what skills the manager's looking for. So, explain how you can help get the job done.
S e l l Y o u r - that” self Show SellYourself
that you're a team player. Managers are leery of people who say, "I did this.. ," or "I did that. ..." When possible, say, "We did this ..." or "We did
Listen for trick questions like, "What's your greatest weakness?" Turn it into a positive. Say, "I'm a workaholic. I like to get things done before I go home.''
SellYourselfPut together a clos-
ing statement. When the interview is coming to a close-Summarize your strengths. Explain why you should be hired. Ask for the job.
Follow-up with a Phone Call - Not TXT
Know what you're going to say
Practice. Get a friend to play the role of manager. CaU him or her up and practice your sped. When you feel confident about your telephone skills, grab the phone and give a real manager a call. Don't feel bad if you bomb on the first few calls most peopte do. Practice makes perfect. lhe more calls you make the more confident you'll feel. Save the choke managers for when you fee) really confident Make your calls before 10:00 in the morn-
ing. Most managers attend meetings after 10:00. The sde purpose of your call is to get an interview. Don't be sidetracked by a manager who claims to have a hiring freeze in effect At this point, all you want is an interview, not a job. As you'll later see, managers am quick to lift a hiring freeze when the right person starts chipping away at
NoTXT NoTXT NoTXT NoTXT the ice.
PA Pathfinders 33
Destination
InterV?EW Quest?onS
34 PA Pathfinders
PA Pathfinders 35
InterV?EW Be Smart Be Prepared Ask Smart Questions
Hiring Managers want to hear intelligent,well-thought questions. The questions you ask will show the managers that you're looking out for vour own happiness and Job security. This implies that you plan to stay with the job for the long run.
Questions: 1. If hired, would I be filling a newly created position, or replacing someone? 2. Was my predecessor promoted ? 3. Would you describe a typical work day and the things I'd be doing? 4. Which duties are most important for this job? Least important? 5. How would I be trained or introduced to the job? 6. How long should it take me to get my feet on the ground and become productive? 7, How is the job important to the company-how does it contribute? 8. What are the department's goals for the year? 9, How many people work in your department? In the company? 10. Who are the people I'd be working with and what do they do? 11, Can someone in this job be promoted? If so, to what position? 12. How would I get feedback on my job performance, if hired?
13, If hired, would I report directly to you, or to someone else? 14. Has the company had a layoff in the last three years? If so, how long was the layoff and was everyone recalled? 15. Is this company owned by any other company? 16. What major markets does this company (or parent company) compete in? 17. Are annual sales for the company ahead of last year's sales? I 18. If you were to offer me this job, where could I expect to be in five years? 19. What do you consider to be my weaknesses? Strengths? 20. Could you give me a brief tour? I'd enjoy seeing where your people work. 21. What could I say or do to convince you to offer me this job? I 22. I want this job. Would you consider hiring me on a 30-day trial period to see if I could do the job?
Warning: Social Networking Can Be Hazardous To Your Job Search Social networks are great spaces for keeping in touch with friends and posting last weekend's party pictures, but now they're being utilized by corporate recruiters to learn about job applicants. Here are some tips on how to protect your image. A recent study found that 77 percent of recruiters run searches of candidates on the Web to screen applicants; 35 percent of these same recruiters say they've eliminated a candidate based on the information they uncovered. “Given the implications and the shelf-life of Internet content, managing your online image is something everyone should address -- regardless of whether or not you’re in a job search,” he says. Because the risks don’t stop once you’re hired. 36 PA Pathfinders
Smart Accesories Protect your image by following these simple tips: 1. Be careful. Nothing is private. Don't post anything on your site or your "friends" sites you wouldn't want a prospective employer to see. Derogatory comments, revealing or risqu? photos, foul language and lewd jokes all will be viewed as a reflection of your character.
2. Be discreet. If your network offers the option, consider setting your profile to "private," so that it is viewable only by friends of your choosing. And since you can't control what other people say on your site, you may want to use the "block comments" feature. Remember, everything on the Internet is archived, and there is no eraser!
3. Be prepared. Check your profile regularly to see what comments have been posted. Use a search engine to look for online records of yourself to see what is out there about you. If you find information you feel could be detrimental to your candidacy or career, see about getting it removed -- and make sure you have an answer ready to counter or explain "digital dirt."
KEEP ON TRACK FOLLOW YOUR PROGRESS lnteiview Date____________________ Manager’s Name Telephone Number:_____________________________ Company’s Name & Address;___________________________________ Inteiview Date:_____________________________________________ Manager’s Name Telephonenumber:______________________________ Company’s Name & Address:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Results of the interview and the mistakes I made:________________________________________________________________________ Date I mailed the thank-you note:___________________________________________________________________________________ Date to follow-up on the telephone:__________________________________________________________________________________ Results of the follow-up:__________________________________________________________________________________________
lnteiview Date____________________ Manager’s Name Telephone Number:_____________________________ Company’s Name & Address;___________________________________ Inteiview Date:_____________________________________________ Manager’s Name Telephonenumber:______________________________ Company’s Name & Address:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Results of the interview and the mistakes I made:________________________________________________________________________ Date I mailed the thank-you note:___________________________________________________________________________________ Date to follow-up on the telephone:__________________________________________________________________________________ Results of the follow-up:__________________________________________________________________________________________
lnteiview Date____________________ Manager’s Name Telephone Number:_____________________________ Company’s Name & Address;___________________________________ Inteiview Date:_____________________________________________ Manager’s Name Telephonenumber:______________________________ Company’s Name & Address:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Results of the interview and the mistakes I made:________________________________________________________________________ Date I mailed the thank-you note:___________________________________________________________________________________ Date to follow-up on the telephone:__________________________________________________________________________________ Results of the follow-up:__________________________________________________________________________________________
lnteiview Date____________________ Manager’s Name Telephone Number:_____________________________ Company’s Name & Address;___________________________________ Inteiview Date:_____________________________________________ Manager’s Name Telephonenumber:______________________________ Company’s Name & Address:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Results of the interview and the mistakes I made:________________________________________________________________________ Date I mailed the thank-you note:___________________________________________________________________________________ Date to follow-up on the telephone:__________________________________________________________________________________ Results of the follow-up:__________________________________________________________________________________________ PA Pathfinders 37
Check It Out
Resource Guide American Dental Association www.ada.org 312-440-2500 American Dental Assistants Association www.dentalassistant.org 312-541-1550 American Dental Hygienists Association www.adha.org 312-440-8900 American Dietetic Association www.eatright.org 800-877-1600 American Health Information Management Association www.ahima.org 312-233-1100 American Medical Association www.ama-assn.org Lists allied health career associations and allied health American Medical Informatics Association www.amia.org 301-657-1291 American Medical Technologists www.amt1.com 800-275-1268 American Nurses Association American Nurses Credentialing Center www.nursingworld. 800-274-4262 American Occupational Therapy Association www.aota.org 301-652-2682 American Optometric Association 38 PA Pathfinders
www.aoa.org 800-365-2219 American Physical Therapy Association www.apta.org 800-999-2782 American Association of Certified Orthoptists American Orthoptic Council www.orthoptics.org 608-233-5383 American Association of Medical Assistants www.aama-ntl.org 312-899-1500 American Association of Nurse Anesthetists www.aana.com 847-692-7050 American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists www.aapspharmaceutica.com 703-243-2800 American Association of Psychiatric Technicians www.psych-health.com 800-391-7589 American Association of Surgical Physician Assistants www.aaspa.com 888-882-2772 American College of Nurse-Midwives www.midwife.org 240-485-1800 American College of Sports Medicine www.acsm.org 317-637-9200
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS American Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants www.anesthetist.org 850-656-8848 American Academy of Family Physicians www.aafp.org 800-274-2237 American Academy of Forensic Sciences www.aafs.org 719-636-1100 American Academy of Nurse Practitioners www.aanp.org 512-442-4262 American Academy of Physician Assistants www.aapa.org 703-836-2272 Society for Physician Assistants in Pediatrics www.aapa.org/spec/SPAP/ American Association for Laboratory Animal Science www.aalas.org 901-754-8620 American Association for Medical Transcription www.aamt.org 800-982-2182 American Association for National Association for Home Care and Hospice www.nahc.org 202-547-7424 National Association for Practical Nurse Education
and Service, Inc. www.napnes.org 703-933-1003 National Association of Dental Laboratories www.nadl.org 800-950-1150 National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians www.naemt.org 800-346-2368 National Black Nurses Association, Inc. www.nbna.org 800-575-6298 National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses,Inc. www.nflpn.org 919-779-0046 National League for Nursing www.nln.org 800-669-1656 National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists www.nacns.org 717-234-6799 National Association of Veterinary Technicians www.navta.net 765-742-2216 Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography www.sdms.org 800-229-9506 Society of Hospital Medicine www.hospitalmedicine.org 800-843-3360 Society of Medical Interpreters www.sominet.org
206-729-2100 HEALTH CARE EDUCATION Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools www.abhes.org 703-917-9503
Personnel in Ophthalmology www.atpo.org 800-482-4858 Biocomputing and Bioinformatics www.il-st-acadsci. org/bc_ilink.html
American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy www.aacp.org 703-739-2330
Emergency Nurses Association www.ena.org 800-900-9659
Association of Schools of Allied Health Professions www.asahp.org 202-293-4848
Infectious Diseases Society of America Guide to Training Programs www.idsociety.org 703-299-0200
National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy www.nbcot.org 301-990-7979 National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants www.nccpa.net 678-417-8100 National Consortium on Health Science and Technology Education www.nchste.org American Student Dental Association www.asdanet.org 800-621-8099, American Veterinary Medical Association www.avma.org 847-925-8070 Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology www.apic.org 202-789-1890 Association of Family Practice Physician Assistants www.afppa.org 877-890-0181 Association of Technical
American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science www.ascls.org 301-657-2768 American Society for Microbiology www.asm.org 202-737-3600 American Society of Clinical Pathology www.ascp.org 800-267-2727 American Society of Cytopathology www.cytopathology.org 302-429-8802 American Society of Echocardiography www.asecho.org 919-861-5574 American Society of Podiatric Medical Assistants www.aspma.org 888-882-7762 American Society of Radiologic Technologists www.asrt.org 505-298-4500 www.asha.org 800-498-2071
Does Mom
Know Best ?
Why Parents Can Help
For nearly every interest a young person has, there is a health care job that mirrors their passion, from working with computers to running a business to working on cutting edge research. There are nearly 300 different jobs within the health care spectrum. Heath care jobs aren’t just financially rewarding. Those who work in the field often say that helping people brings its own emotional rewards. Also people who work in health care are usually respected in their communities. Is Health Care Right for Your Teen The Association of Academic Health Centers helps parents gauge if a health career matches the abilities, needs, and hopes of young people. Consider the following questions:
• Do they like to deal with people? Some jobs such as nursing, being a doctor of medicine, and doing therapy require a lot of patient contact. Others, such as lab technology, hardly any. •Are they comfortable with science? Many health care jobs require a good science background, and a high percentage of them have some connection to laboratory sciences such as chemistry and microbiology. •Are they prepared to keep learning? Health care changes quickly, and many jobs require continuing education. •Will they be comfortable in a health care setting? A high percentage of health care jobs require contact with sick, disabled, or dying people.Most of that takes place at hospitals or clinics or in homes.However, a number of jobs are located in pharmacies, labs, computer facilities, and business offices. •Do they enjoy being a team player? Health care is a group activity where everyone is important. These jobs necessarily require good communication and collaboration skills. •How well do they handle stress? Many health care jobs expose workers to emergency situations, long hours, and big responsibilities. PA Pathfinders 39
M
Medical Assisting is one of the fastest growing professions in healthcare. If you want a challenging career with job security that lets you help others in their times of need, Medical Assisting is for you. Learn the skills necessary to function in the laboratory, assist physicians with patient care and perform basic medical office skills like billing and bookkeeping. The time has never been better for you to begin a meaningful career in the healthcare industry. Become a Medical Assistant and change the life of a patient today. For More Information Call Allied Medical & Technical Institute (570) 558-1818 or (877) 572-8369
40 PA Pathfinders
PA Pathfinders 41