I think I mentioned I'm re-applying to graduate school. I have 9/30 credits completed (through distance education while working) at "University A", in the state I formerly lived in. I could continue on this path, taking 3 credits a semester (6 a year) and graduate in 3.5 years. University A is usually ranked in the 30s or 40s in my field.
My new job is more flexible about where you do your education. (Actually, they'll pay for almost anything, even non-job related. I think I'm taking sailing this spring!) I now have access to another (distance education) program at "University B" a top 10 engineering college. Even better, they are on the quarter system, require just nine courses, and I can take four each year. They also will accept two transfer credits, meaning if they accept my application, I'll be done in under two years! It'll also be a boost to my resume, as I went to a relatively no-name undergrad university. It also probably will be a lot more work and a very difficult two years... but it should pay off big time in the long run.
I was already really sold on this idea but I just came up with yet another great benefit. At "University B", each class is four credits, which by their system would classify me as a "half time" student. So what does that mean? Well, my student loans are Federal Subsidized Stafford loans, meaning while I'm enrolled in school at least half time, the government will pay the interest for me. I could also completely cease making payments if I wanted, freeing up $133 extra each month to invest/save. WOW! (I'll have to decide exactly what I plan to do when/if this whole thing is a reality)
In dollar terms, what does this mean? Well, last month the interest on my loan was roughly $75, so if I'm in this program for roughly two years, it'll save me about $1800. I can't wait until September to get this started! Let's hope that they accept me! I should find out within a few months!
Showing posts with label Education. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Education. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Friday, February 8, 2008
Three Tips for (almost) Guaranteed Success!
I consider myself reasonably successful, and I hope to continue down the road to success as I get older. Trent over at the The Simple Dollar recently wrote an interesting post in which he shares some tips to improve your life. In light of this, I want to share with you exactly how I got to where I am today, and outline how you can do even better than I did! Here are the main four things I did right to get where I am today:
Luck: I was born in the USA, lucky me! I think that is the single most important thing to my success (though other first world countries could have been acceptable).
Family: We were not in poverty, though there were some money issues at times. That helps a heck of a lot when trying to get through life. I was well fed and actually went to a private high school. Most of all, there was a ton of emotional support. My dad in particular placed high priority on education, as he did not finish college himself. We were encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities, and my parents shelled out for a lot of lessons, sports and extra classes. I used to go to summer school for fun to take extra classes! They provided some minor monetary support in college, and allowed me to stay at home rent free while for a couple semesters.
Natural ability: Not everyone can get through the engineering coursework with good grades. I'm not meaning to be arrogant--there are a ton of things that I stink at. But my ability to understand math is genetic--I did nothing special to earn it.
Hard work: I have spent many many hours investing in my education and myself. It isn't always fun, but it is rewarding.
To a lesser degree, the following two things helped:
Federal Support: I received scholarships and financial aid to attend college. Without it, I'd be at least 20k more in student loan debt. For a state school!
Social connections: I got the interview for my current job because my boyfriend was going to a top grad school, met someone who worked here, and passed on my resume. Most people who work here are from big name schools. Not I! Other than that, I didn't get a lot of advantages from social connections, yet. My parents don't have powerful friends, nor did I go to a prestigious school. But I've seen it happen with others a lot.
Based in my successes, I have three surefire tips for success. You'll may have to combine these with hard work to guarantee success. Still, with just a little work, you'll have a good shot at a successful life if you do these three things:
All joking aside, hard work is very important and can help a lot of people. What about "working smart"? Personally, that term gets on my nerves. I think it is overused and largely meaningless. However, if you think you can find a way to "work smart", go for it. If you don't really understand what "work smart" means in your life (I don't!) just work hard while you are contemplating it.
My point is, you do have to play your cards right, but it is silly to pretend we all got a similar hand.
Luck: I was born in the USA, lucky me! I think that is the single most important thing to my success (though other first world countries could have been acceptable).
Family: We were not in poverty, though there were some money issues at times. That helps a heck of a lot when trying to get through life. I was well fed and actually went to a private high school. Most of all, there was a ton of emotional support. My dad in particular placed high priority on education, as he did not finish college himself. We were encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities, and my parents shelled out for a lot of lessons, sports and extra classes. I used to go to summer school for fun to take extra classes! They provided some minor monetary support in college, and allowed me to stay at home rent free while for a couple semesters.
Natural ability: Not everyone can get through the engineering coursework with good grades. I'm not meaning to be arrogant--there are a ton of things that I stink at. But my ability to understand math is genetic--I did nothing special to earn it.
Hard work: I have spent many many hours investing in my education and myself. It isn't always fun, but it is rewarding.
To a lesser degree, the following two things helped:
Federal Support: I received scholarships and financial aid to attend college. Without it, I'd be at least 20k more in student loan debt. For a state school!
Social connections: I got the interview for my current job because my boyfriend was going to a top grad school, met someone who worked here, and passed on my resume. Most people who work here are from big name schools. Not I! Other than that, I didn't get a lot of advantages from social connections, yet. My parents don't have powerful friends, nor did I go to a prestigious school. But I've seen it happen with others a lot.
Based in my successes, I have three surefire tips for success. You'll may have to combine these with hard work to guarantee success. Still, with just a little work, you'll have a good shot at a successful life if you do these three things:
- Be born in a good country. Even better, pick a good neighborhood, and maybe consider avoiding being a minority group. You could even consider being male, though I wasn't and don't want to be!
- Have a good family. The more money the easier it will be for you, but even more importantly, they have to care about you. Not only that, they must have the time and knowledge to invest in your future, as well as the ability to lead you along in your early years. And maybe in your young adult years too, if you are lucky!
- Be gifted. Intelligence is a good gift to have, or perhaps extreme artistic talent. Both would be great, but there are some other options I'm sure. Have some charisma and a go-getter personality. While you are at it, make sure you are healthy and it wouldn't hurt to be attractive too.
All joking aside, hard work is very important and can help a lot of people. What about "working smart"? Personally, that term gets on my nerves. I think it is overused and largely meaningless. However, if you think you can find a way to "work smart", go for it. If you don't really understand what "work smart" means in your life (I don't!) just work hard while you are contemplating it.
My point is, you do have to play your cards right, but it is silly to pretend we all got a similar hand.
Friday, February 1, 2008
One week until paycheck
I just completed my first week at my new job, and will get paid next week. Let me just stay, I can not wait!
Work, so far, is horribly boring. I know it will get better, but they haven't exactly fit me into a program, so I've just been chillin' and doing a LOT of online training. But I'm a hard worker, so it is frustrating to just be sitting here, when I know all my friends at my last job are working their butts off.
By the way, applying to graduate school is expensive. I was accepted to a pretty good school at my last job (usually ranked about 30 or so in my major), but I now have access to a degree from top ten university. They will accept 2 of the 3 classes I have taken, and are on a quarter system, so I will be done with my M.S. degree more quickly. It will be a lot of work, but a better education overall. It will also help my resume out, as my undergrad institution is relatively unknown. My current company will pay for pretty much everything, including books.
In order to apply to the new school, I have paid:
-$60 application fee
-$24 for 2 transcripts from my previous grad school
-$12 for 2 transcripts from my undergrad school
I have opted NOT to send transcripts from my study abroad university (too much of a hassle, probably only about $15 plus international mail) and not order official GRE scores ($20 or so). Still, it is easily $100 a school to apply!
They will eventually be reimbursed to me, as long as I remember to file for it once I've completed my first class. My fees for the previous school I applied for were also reimbursed (and the GRE fee), so I am fortunate. But had I gone to grad school right away, I'd be facing these costs as a poor college student. That just seems wrong, but there aren't many ways around it.
This is one of many reasons I am really excited for my paycheck. Thank goodness for a healthy savings account!
Work, so far, is horribly boring. I know it will get better, but they haven't exactly fit me into a program, so I've just been chillin' and doing a LOT of online training. But I'm a hard worker, so it is frustrating to just be sitting here, when I know all my friends at my last job are working their butts off.
By the way, applying to graduate school is expensive. I was accepted to a pretty good school at my last job (usually ranked about 30 or so in my major), but I now have access to a degree from top ten university. They will accept 2 of the 3 classes I have taken, and are on a quarter system, so I will be done with my M.S. degree more quickly. It will be a lot of work, but a better education overall. It will also help my resume out, as my undergrad institution is relatively unknown. My current company will pay for pretty much everything, including books.
In order to apply to the new school, I have paid:
-$60 application fee
-$24 for 2 transcripts from my previous grad school
-$12 for 2 transcripts from my undergrad school
I have opted NOT to send transcripts from my study abroad university (too much of a hassle, probably only about $15 plus international mail) and not order official GRE scores ($20 or so). Still, it is easily $100 a school to apply!
They will eventually be reimbursed to me, as long as I remember to file for it once I've completed my first class. My fees for the previous school I applied for were also reimbursed (and the GRE fee), so I am fortunate. But had I gone to grad school right away, I'd be facing these costs as a poor college student. That just seems wrong, but there aren't many ways around it.
This is one of many reasons I am really excited for my paycheck. Thank goodness for a healthy savings account!
Friday, January 11, 2008
Tuition Reimbursement and Rental Insurance Update
In my industry, tuition reimbursement is pretty common. My current job has it, and my new job actually pays the tuition up front for you.
The problem I've run into is that Spring semester starts next week, and I am still finalizing my start date for my new job (most likely, February 1st). There is a class I'd really like to take this semester, but I don't want to pay for it out of my own pocket. I've been trying to get an answer from my new job about whether they will pay the bill for me (even some prorated ammount), or if I have to take a semester off from my distance learning program.
The cost for one class would be rough $1600. I could take this out of savings. Why would I do this, when employers typically pay for this cost? Well, I might do it in hopes that I can work something out with my new manager and get them to reimburse it. I might do it because the class sounds interesting and isn't offered often. I might do it so it won't take me even longer to finish my degree program. Since I have been unable to get an answer from the new job, I have seriously been contemplating paying for it out of pocket.
When it comes down to it though, $1600 is just too much money for me to spend. Here's to hoping they get me an answer soon!
In other news, I purhcased my rental insurance from Geico last night, with a 5k deductable. The reason I'm getting rental insurance, despite the fact that the value of the things in my apartment is probably less than the deductable, is the liability issues. The general rule (for me at least) is to insure yourself against thigns you can't afford to have happen. If my apartment burned down, I could afford to replace my belongings. That is why I have an e-fund. The policy also has some sort of "temporary living" terms that would help me out. What I couldn't afford is if my apartment burned down and it was blamed on me and I was sued for damages. I chose a high deductable, but also high "liability" coverage. It was only $163 for the year, and it was close to $300 for a more "reasonable" deductable of $1000 or $500.
The problem I've run into is that Spring semester starts next week, and I am still finalizing my start date for my new job (most likely, February 1st). There is a class I'd really like to take this semester, but I don't want to pay for it out of my own pocket. I've been trying to get an answer from my new job about whether they will pay the bill for me (even some prorated ammount), or if I have to take a semester off from my distance learning program.
The cost for one class would be rough $1600. I could take this out of savings. Why would I do this, when employers typically pay for this cost? Well, I might do it in hopes that I can work something out with my new manager and get them to reimburse it. I might do it because the class sounds interesting and isn't offered often. I might do it so it won't take me even longer to finish my degree program. Since I have been unable to get an answer from the new job, I have seriously been contemplating paying for it out of pocket.
When it comes down to it though, $1600 is just too much money for me to spend. Here's to hoping they get me an answer soon!
In other news, I purhcased my rental insurance from Geico last night, with a 5k deductable. The reason I'm getting rental insurance, despite the fact that the value of the things in my apartment is probably less than the deductable, is the liability issues. The general rule (for me at least) is to insure yourself against thigns you can't afford to have happen. If my apartment burned down, I could afford to replace my belongings. That is why I have an e-fund. The policy also has some sort of "temporary living" terms that would help me out. What I couldn't afford is if my apartment burned down and it was blamed on me and I was sued for damages. I chose a high deductable, but also high "liability" coverage. It was only $163 for the year, and it was close to $300 for a more "reasonable" deductable of $1000 or $500.
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Showing posts with label Education. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Education. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Brilliant!
I think I mentioned I'm re-applying to graduate school. I have 9/30 credits completed (through distance education while working) at "University A", in the state I formerly lived in. I could continue on this path, taking 3 credits a semester (6 a year) and graduate in 3.5 years. University A is usually ranked in the 30s or 40s in my field.
My new job is more flexible about where you do your education. (Actually, they'll pay for almost anything, even non-job related. I think I'm taking sailing this spring!) I now have access to another (distance education) program at "University B" a top 10 engineering college. Even better, they are on the quarter system, require just nine courses, and I can take four each year. They also will accept two transfer credits, meaning if they accept my application, I'll be done in under two years! It'll also be a boost to my resume, as I went to a relatively no-name undergrad university. It also probably will be a lot more work and a very difficult two years... but it should pay off big time in the long run.
I was already really sold on this idea but I just came up with yet another great benefit. At "University B", each class is four credits, which by their system would classify me as a "half time" student. So what does that mean? Well, my student loans are Federal Subsidized Stafford loans, meaning while I'm enrolled in school at least half time, the government will pay the interest for me. I could also completely cease making payments if I wanted, freeing up $133 extra each month to invest/save. WOW! (I'll have to decide exactly what I plan to do when/if this whole thing is a reality)
In dollar terms, what does this mean? Well, last month the interest on my loan was roughly $75, so if I'm in this program for roughly two years, it'll save me about $1800. I can't wait until September to get this started! Let's hope that they accept me! I should find out within a few months!
My new job is more flexible about where you do your education. (Actually, they'll pay for almost anything, even non-job related. I think I'm taking sailing this spring!) I now have access to another (distance education) program at "University B" a top 10 engineering college. Even better, they are on the quarter system, require just nine courses, and I can take four each year. They also will accept two transfer credits, meaning if they accept my application, I'll be done in under two years! It'll also be a boost to my resume, as I went to a relatively no-name undergrad university. It also probably will be a lot more work and a very difficult two years... but it should pay off big time in the long run.
I was already really sold on this idea but I just came up with yet another great benefit. At "University B", each class is four credits, which by their system would classify me as a "half time" student. So what does that mean? Well, my student loans are Federal Subsidized Stafford loans, meaning while I'm enrolled in school at least half time, the government will pay the interest for me. I could also completely cease making payments if I wanted, freeing up $133 extra each month to invest/save. WOW! (I'll have to decide exactly what I plan to do when/if this whole thing is a reality)
In dollar terms, what does this mean? Well, last month the interest on my loan was roughly $75, so if I'm in this program for roughly two years, it'll save me about $1800. I can't wait until September to get this started! Let's hope that they accept me! I should find out within a few months!
Friday, February 8, 2008
Three Tips for (almost) Guaranteed Success!
I consider myself reasonably successful, and I hope to continue down the road to success as I get older. Trent over at the The Simple Dollar recently wrote an interesting post in which he shares some tips to improve your life. In light of this, I want to share with you exactly how I got to where I am today, and outline how you can do even better than I did! Here are the main four things I did right to get where I am today:
Luck: I was born in the USA, lucky me! I think that is the single most important thing to my success (though other first world countries could have been acceptable).
Family: We were not in poverty, though there were some money issues at times. That helps a heck of a lot when trying to get through life. I was well fed and actually went to a private high school. Most of all, there was a ton of emotional support. My dad in particular placed high priority on education, as he did not finish college himself. We were encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities, and my parents shelled out for a lot of lessons, sports and extra classes. I used to go to summer school for fun to take extra classes! They provided some minor monetary support in college, and allowed me to stay at home rent free while for a couple semesters.
Natural ability: Not everyone can get through the engineering coursework with good grades. I'm not meaning to be arrogant--there are a ton of things that I stink at. But my ability to understand math is genetic--I did nothing special to earn it.
Hard work: I have spent many many hours investing in my education and myself. It isn't always fun, but it is rewarding.
To a lesser degree, the following two things helped:
Federal Support: I received scholarships and financial aid to attend college. Without it, I'd be at least 20k more in student loan debt. For a state school!
Social connections: I got the interview for my current job because my boyfriend was going to a top grad school, met someone who worked here, and passed on my resume. Most people who work here are from big name schools. Not I! Other than that, I didn't get a lot of advantages from social connections, yet. My parents don't have powerful friends, nor did I go to a prestigious school. But I've seen it happen with others a lot.
Based in my successes, I have three surefire tips for success. You'll may have to combine these with hard work to guarantee success. Still, with just a little work, you'll have a good shot at a successful life if you do these three things:
All joking aside, hard work is very important and can help a lot of people. What about "working smart"? Personally, that term gets on my nerves. I think it is overused and largely meaningless. However, if you think you can find a way to "work smart", go for it. If you don't really understand what "work smart" means in your life (I don't!) just work hard while you are contemplating it.
My point is, you do have to play your cards right, but it is silly to pretend we all got a similar hand.
Luck: I was born in the USA, lucky me! I think that is the single most important thing to my success (though other first world countries could have been acceptable).
Family: We were not in poverty, though there were some money issues at times. That helps a heck of a lot when trying to get through life. I was well fed and actually went to a private high school. Most of all, there was a ton of emotional support. My dad in particular placed high priority on education, as he did not finish college himself. We were encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities, and my parents shelled out for a lot of lessons, sports and extra classes. I used to go to summer school for fun to take extra classes! They provided some minor monetary support in college, and allowed me to stay at home rent free while for a couple semesters.
Natural ability: Not everyone can get through the engineering coursework with good grades. I'm not meaning to be arrogant--there are a ton of things that I stink at. But my ability to understand math is genetic--I did nothing special to earn it.
Hard work: I have spent many many hours investing in my education and myself. It isn't always fun, but it is rewarding.
To a lesser degree, the following two things helped:
Federal Support: I received scholarships and financial aid to attend college. Without it, I'd be at least 20k more in student loan debt. For a state school!
Social connections: I got the interview for my current job because my boyfriend was going to a top grad school, met someone who worked here, and passed on my resume. Most people who work here are from big name schools. Not I! Other than that, I didn't get a lot of advantages from social connections, yet. My parents don't have powerful friends, nor did I go to a prestigious school. But I've seen it happen with others a lot.
Based in my successes, I have three surefire tips for success. You'll may have to combine these with hard work to guarantee success. Still, with just a little work, you'll have a good shot at a successful life if you do these three things:
- Be born in a good country. Even better, pick a good neighborhood, and maybe consider avoiding being a minority group. You could even consider being male, though I wasn't and don't want to be!
- Have a good family. The more money the easier it will be for you, but even more importantly, they have to care about you. Not only that, they must have the time and knowledge to invest in your future, as well as the ability to lead you along in your early years. And maybe in your young adult years too, if you are lucky!
- Be gifted. Intelligence is a good gift to have, or perhaps extreme artistic talent. Both would be great, but there are some other options I'm sure. Have some charisma and a go-getter personality. While you are at it, make sure you are healthy and it wouldn't hurt to be attractive too.
All joking aside, hard work is very important and can help a lot of people. What about "working smart"? Personally, that term gets on my nerves. I think it is overused and largely meaningless. However, if you think you can find a way to "work smart", go for it. If you don't really understand what "work smart" means in your life (I don't!) just work hard while you are contemplating it.
My point is, you do have to play your cards right, but it is silly to pretend we all got a similar hand.
Friday, February 1, 2008
One week until paycheck
I just completed my first week at my new job, and will get paid next week. Let me just stay, I can not wait!
Work, so far, is horribly boring. I know it will get better, but they haven't exactly fit me into a program, so I've just been chillin' and doing a LOT of online training. But I'm a hard worker, so it is frustrating to just be sitting here, when I know all my friends at my last job are working their butts off.
By the way, applying to graduate school is expensive. I was accepted to a pretty good school at my last job (usually ranked about 30 or so in my major), but I now have access to a degree from top ten university. They will accept 2 of the 3 classes I have taken, and are on a quarter system, so I will be done with my M.S. degree more quickly. It will be a lot of work, but a better education overall. It will also help my resume out, as my undergrad institution is relatively unknown. My current company will pay for pretty much everything, including books.
In order to apply to the new school, I have paid:
-$60 application fee
-$24 for 2 transcripts from my previous grad school
-$12 for 2 transcripts from my undergrad school
I have opted NOT to send transcripts from my study abroad university (too much of a hassle, probably only about $15 plus international mail) and not order official GRE scores ($20 or so). Still, it is easily $100 a school to apply!
They will eventually be reimbursed to me, as long as I remember to file for it once I've completed my first class. My fees for the previous school I applied for were also reimbursed (and the GRE fee), so I am fortunate. But had I gone to grad school right away, I'd be facing these costs as a poor college student. That just seems wrong, but there aren't many ways around it.
This is one of many reasons I am really excited for my paycheck. Thank goodness for a healthy savings account!
Work, so far, is horribly boring. I know it will get better, but they haven't exactly fit me into a program, so I've just been chillin' and doing a LOT of online training. But I'm a hard worker, so it is frustrating to just be sitting here, when I know all my friends at my last job are working their butts off.
By the way, applying to graduate school is expensive. I was accepted to a pretty good school at my last job (usually ranked about 30 or so in my major), but I now have access to a degree from top ten university. They will accept 2 of the 3 classes I have taken, and are on a quarter system, so I will be done with my M.S. degree more quickly. It will be a lot of work, but a better education overall. It will also help my resume out, as my undergrad institution is relatively unknown. My current company will pay for pretty much everything, including books.
In order to apply to the new school, I have paid:
-$60 application fee
-$24 for 2 transcripts from my previous grad school
-$12 for 2 transcripts from my undergrad school
I have opted NOT to send transcripts from my study abroad university (too much of a hassle, probably only about $15 plus international mail) and not order official GRE scores ($20 or so). Still, it is easily $100 a school to apply!
They will eventually be reimbursed to me, as long as I remember to file for it once I've completed my first class. My fees for the previous school I applied for were also reimbursed (and the GRE fee), so I am fortunate. But had I gone to grad school right away, I'd be facing these costs as a poor college student. That just seems wrong, but there aren't many ways around it.
This is one of many reasons I am really excited for my paycheck. Thank goodness for a healthy savings account!
Friday, January 11, 2008
Tuition Reimbursement and Rental Insurance Update
In my industry, tuition reimbursement is pretty common. My current job has it, and my new job actually pays the tuition up front for you.
The problem I've run into is that Spring semester starts next week, and I am still finalizing my start date for my new job (most likely, February 1st). There is a class I'd really like to take this semester, but I don't want to pay for it out of my own pocket. I've been trying to get an answer from my new job about whether they will pay the bill for me (even some prorated ammount), or if I have to take a semester off from my distance learning program.
The cost for one class would be rough $1600. I could take this out of savings. Why would I do this, when employers typically pay for this cost? Well, I might do it in hopes that I can work something out with my new manager and get them to reimburse it. I might do it because the class sounds interesting and isn't offered often. I might do it so it won't take me even longer to finish my degree program. Since I have been unable to get an answer from the new job, I have seriously been contemplating paying for it out of pocket.
When it comes down to it though, $1600 is just too much money for me to spend. Here's to hoping they get me an answer soon!
In other news, I purhcased my rental insurance from Geico last night, with a 5k deductable. The reason I'm getting rental insurance, despite the fact that the value of the things in my apartment is probably less than the deductable, is the liability issues. The general rule (for me at least) is to insure yourself against thigns you can't afford to have happen. If my apartment burned down, I could afford to replace my belongings. That is why I have an e-fund. The policy also has some sort of "temporary living" terms that would help me out. What I couldn't afford is if my apartment burned down and it was blamed on me and I was sued for damages. I chose a high deductable, but also high "liability" coverage. It was only $163 for the year, and it was close to $300 for a more "reasonable" deductable of $1000 or $500.
The problem I've run into is that Spring semester starts next week, and I am still finalizing my start date for my new job (most likely, February 1st). There is a class I'd really like to take this semester, but I don't want to pay for it out of my own pocket. I've been trying to get an answer from my new job about whether they will pay the bill for me (even some prorated ammount), or if I have to take a semester off from my distance learning program.
The cost for one class would be rough $1600. I could take this out of savings. Why would I do this, when employers typically pay for this cost? Well, I might do it in hopes that I can work something out with my new manager and get them to reimburse it. I might do it because the class sounds interesting and isn't offered often. I might do it so it won't take me even longer to finish my degree program. Since I have been unable to get an answer from the new job, I have seriously been contemplating paying for it out of pocket.
When it comes down to it though, $1600 is just too much money for me to spend. Here's to hoping they get me an answer soon!
In other news, I purhcased my rental insurance from Geico last night, with a 5k deductable. The reason I'm getting rental insurance, despite the fact that the value of the things in my apartment is probably less than the deductable, is the liability issues. The general rule (for me at least) is to insure yourself against thigns you can't afford to have happen. If my apartment burned down, I could afford to replace my belongings. That is why I have an e-fund. The policy also has some sort of "temporary living" terms that would help me out. What I couldn't afford is if my apartment burned down and it was blamed on me and I was sued for damages. I chose a high deductable, but also high "liability" coverage. It was only $163 for the year, and it was close to $300 for a more "reasonable" deductable of $1000 or $500.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Showing posts with label Education. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Education. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Brilliant!
I think I mentioned I'm re-applying to graduate school. I have 9/30 credits completed (through distance education while working) at "University A", in the state I formerly lived in. I could continue on this path, taking 3 credits a semester (6 a year) and graduate in 3.5 years. University A is usually ranked in the 30s or 40s in my field.
My new job is more flexible about where you do your education. (Actually, they'll pay for almost anything, even non-job related. I think I'm taking sailing this spring!) I now have access to another (distance education) program at "University B" a top 10 engineering college. Even better, they are on the quarter system, require just nine courses, and I can take four each year. They also will accept two transfer credits, meaning if they accept my application, I'll be done in under two years! It'll also be a boost to my resume, as I went to a relatively no-name undergrad university. It also probably will be a lot more work and a very difficult two years... but it should pay off big time in the long run.
I was already really sold on this idea but I just came up with yet another great benefit. At "University B", each class is four credits, which by their system would classify me as a "half time" student. So what does that mean? Well, my student loans are Federal Subsidized Stafford loans, meaning while I'm enrolled in school at least half time, the government will pay the interest for me. I could also completely cease making payments if I wanted, freeing up $133 extra each month to invest/save. WOW! (I'll have to decide exactly what I plan to do when/if this whole thing is a reality)
In dollar terms, what does this mean? Well, last month the interest on my loan was roughly $75, so if I'm in this program for roughly two years, it'll save me about $1800. I can't wait until September to get this started! Let's hope that they accept me! I should find out within a few months!
My new job is more flexible about where you do your education. (Actually, they'll pay for almost anything, even non-job related. I think I'm taking sailing this spring!) I now have access to another (distance education) program at "University B" a top 10 engineering college. Even better, they are on the quarter system, require just nine courses, and I can take four each year. They also will accept two transfer credits, meaning if they accept my application, I'll be done in under two years! It'll also be a boost to my resume, as I went to a relatively no-name undergrad university. It also probably will be a lot more work and a very difficult two years... but it should pay off big time in the long run.
I was already really sold on this idea but I just came up with yet another great benefit. At "University B", each class is four credits, which by their system would classify me as a "half time" student. So what does that mean? Well, my student loans are Federal Subsidized Stafford loans, meaning while I'm enrolled in school at least half time, the government will pay the interest for me. I could also completely cease making payments if I wanted, freeing up $133 extra each month to invest/save. WOW! (I'll have to decide exactly what I plan to do when/if this whole thing is a reality)
In dollar terms, what does this mean? Well, last month the interest on my loan was roughly $75, so if I'm in this program for roughly two years, it'll save me about $1800. I can't wait until September to get this started! Let's hope that they accept me! I should find out within a few months!
Friday, February 8, 2008
Three Tips for (almost) Guaranteed Success!
I consider myself reasonably successful, and I hope to continue down the road to success as I get older. Trent over at the The Simple Dollar recently wrote an interesting post in which he shares some tips to improve your life. In light of this, I want to share with you exactly how I got to where I am today, and outline how you can do even better than I did! Here are the main four things I did right to get where I am today:
Luck: I was born in the USA, lucky me! I think that is the single most important thing to my success (though other first world countries could have been acceptable).
Family: We were not in poverty, though there were some money issues at times. That helps a heck of a lot when trying to get through life. I was well fed and actually went to a private high school. Most of all, there was a ton of emotional support. My dad in particular placed high priority on education, as he did not finish college himself. We were encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities, and my parents shelled out for a lot of lessons, sports and extra classes. I used to go to summer school for fun to take extra classes! They provided some minor monetary support in college, and allowed me to stay at home rent free while for a couple semesters.
Natural ability: Not everyone can get through the engineering coursework with good grades. I'm not meaning to be arrogant--there are a ton of things that I stink at. But my ability to understand math is genetic--I did nothing special to earn it.
Hard work: I have spent many many hours investing in my education and myself. It isn't always fun, but it is rewarding.
To a lesser degree, the following two things helped:
Federal Support: I received scholarships and financial aid to attend college. Without it, I'd be at least 20k more in student loan debt. For a state school!
Social connections: I got the interview for my current job because my boyfriend was going to a top grad school, met someone who worked here, and passed on my resume. Most people who work here are from big name schools. Not I! Other than that, I didn't get a lot of advantages from social connections, yet. My parents don't have powerful friends, nor did I go to a prestigious school. But I've seen it happen with others a lot.
Based in my successes, I have three surefire tips for success. You'll may have to combine these with hard work to guarantee success. Still, with just a little work, you'll have a good shot at a successful life if you do these three things:
All joking aside, hard work is very important and can help a lot of people. What about "working smart"? Personally, that term gets on my nerves. I think it is overused and largely meaningless. However, if you think you can find a way to "work smart", go for it. If you don't really understand what "work smart" means in your life (I don't!) just work hard while you are contemplating it.
My point is, you do have to play your cards right, but it is silly to pretend we all got a similar hand.
Luck: I was born in the USA, lucky me! I think that is the single most important thing to my success (though other first world countries could have been acceptable).
Family: We were not in poverty, though there were some money issues at times. That helps a heck of a lot when trying to get through life. I was well fed and actually went to a private high school. Most of all, there was a ton of emotional support. My dad in particular placed high priority on education, as he did not finish college himself. We were encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities, and my parents shelled out for a lot of lessons, sports and extra classes. I used to go to summer school for fun to take extra classes! They provided some minor monetary support in college, and allowed me to stay at home rent free while for a couple semesters.
Natural ability: Not everyone can get through the engineering coursework with good grades. I'm not meaning to be arrogant--there are a ton of things that I stink at. But my ability to understand math is genetic--I did nothing special to earn it.
Hard work: I have spent many many hours investing in my education and myself. It isn't always fun, but it is rewarding.
To a lesser degree, the following two things helped:
Federal Support: I received scholarships and financial aid to attend college. Without it, I'd be at least 20k more in student loan debt. For a state school!
Social connections: I got the interview for my current job because my boyfriend was going to a top grad school, met someone who worked here, and passed on my resume. Most people who work here are from big name schools. Not I! Other than that, I didn't get a lot of advantages from social connections, yet. My parents don't have powerful friends, nor did I go to a prestigious school. But I've seen it happen with others a lot.
Based in my successes, I have three surefire tips for success. You'll may have to combine these with hard work to guarantee success. Still, with just a little work, you'll have a good shot at a successful life if you do these three things:
- Be born in a good country. Even better, pick a good neighborhood, and maybe consider avoiding being a minority group. You could even consider being male, though I wasn't and don't want to be!
- Have a good family. The more money the easier it will be for you, but even more importantly, they have to care about you. Not only that, they must have the time and knowledge to invest in your future, as well as the ability to lead you along in your early years. And maybe in your young adult years too, if you are lucky!
- Be gifted. Intelligence is a good gift to have, or perhaps extreme artistic talent. Both would be great, but there are some other options I'm sure. Have some charisma and a go-getter personality. While you are at it, make sure you are healthy and it wouldn't hurt to be attractive too.
All joking aside, hard work is very important and can help a lot of people. What about "working smart"? Personally, that term gets on my nerves. I think it is overused and largely meaningless. However, if you think you can find a way to "work smart", go for it. If you don't really understand what "work smart" means in your life (I don't!) just work hard while you are contemplating it.
My point is, you do have to play your cards right, but it is silly to pretend we all got a similar hand.
Friday, February 1, 2008
One week until paycheck
I just completed my first week at my new job, and will get paid next week. Let me just stay, I can not wait!
Work, so far, is horribly boring. I know it will get better, but they haven't exactly fit me into a program, so I've just been chillin' and doing a LOT of online training. But I'm a hard worker, so it is frustrating to just be sitting here, when I know all my friends at my last job are working their butts off.
By the way, applying to graduate school is expensive. I was accepted to a pretty good school at my last job (usually ranked about 30 or so in my major), but I now have access to a degree from top ten university. They will accept 2 of the 3 classes I have taken, and are on a quarter system, so I will be done with my M.S. degree more quickly. It will be a lot of work, but a better education overall. It will also help my resume out, as my undergrad institution is relatively unknown. My current company will pay for pretty much everything, including books.
In order to apply to the new school, I have paid:
-$60 application fee
-$24 for 2 transcripts from my previous grad school
-$12 for 2 transcripts from my undergrad school
I have opted NOT to send transcripts from my study abroad university (too much of a hassle, probably only about $15 plus international mail) and not order official GRE scores ($20 or so). Still, it is easily $100 a school to apply!
They will eventually be reimbursed to me, as long as I remember to file for it once I've completed my first class. My fees for the previous school I applied for were also reimbursed (and the GRE fee), so I am fortunate. But had I gone to grad school right away, I'd be facing these costs as a poor college student. That just seems wrong, but there aren't many ways around it.
This is one of many reasons I am really excited for my paycheck. Thank goodness for a healthy savings account!
Work, so far, is horribly boring. I know it will get better, but they haven't exactly fit me into a program, so I've just been chillin' and doing a LOT of online training. But I'm a hard worker, so it is frustrating to just be sitting here, when I know all my friends at my last job are working their butts off.
By the way, applying to graduate school is expensive. I was accepted to a pretty good school at my last job (usually ranked about 30 or so in my major), but I now have access to a degree from top ten university. They will accept 2 of the 3 classes I have taken, and are on a quarter system, so I will be done with my M.S. degree more quickly. It will be a lot of work, but a better education overall. It will also help my resume out, as my undergrad institution is relatively unknown. My current company will pay for pretty much everything, including books.
In order to apply to the new school, I have paid:
-$60 application fee
-$24 for 2 transcripts from my previous grad school
-$12 for 2 transcripts from my undergrad school
I have opted NOT to send transcripts from my study abroad university (too much of a hassle, probably only about $15 plus international mail) and not order official GRE scores ($20 or so). Still, it is easily $100 a school to apply!
They will eventually be reimbursed to me, as long as I remember to file for it once I've completed my first class. My fees for the previous school I applied for were also reimbursed (and the GRE fee), so I am fortunate. But had I gone to grad school right away, I'd be facing these costs as a poor college student. That just seems wrong, but there aren't many ways around it.
This is one of many reasons I am really excited for my paycheck. Thank goodness for a healthy savings account!
Friday, January 11, 2008
Tuition Reimbursement and Rental Insurance Update
In my industry, tuition reimbursement is pretty common. My current job has it, and my new job actually pays the tuition up front for you.
The problem I've run into is that Spring semester starts next week, and I am still finalizing my start date for my new job (most likely, February 1st). There is a class I'd really like to take this semester, but I don't want to pay for it out of my own pocket. I've been trying to get an answer from my new job about whether they will pay the bill for me (even some prorated ammount), or if I have to take a semester off from my distance learning program.
The cost for one class would be rough $1600. I could take this out of savings. Why would I do this, when employers typically pay for this cost? Well, I might do it in hopes that I can work something out with my new manager and get them to reimburse it. I might do it because the class sounds interesting and isn't offered often. I might do it so it won't take me even longer to finish my degree program. Since I have been unable to get an answer from the new job, I have seriously been contemplating paying for it out of pocket.
When it comes down to it though, $1600 is just too much money for me to spend. Here's to hoping they get me an answer soon!
In other news, I purhcased my rental insurance from Geico last night, with a 5k deductable. The reason I'm getting rental insurance, despite the fact that the value of the things in my apartment is probably less than the deductable, is the liability issues. The general rule (for me at least) is to insure yourself against thigns you can't afford to have happen. If my apartment burned down, I could afford to replace my belongings. That is why I have an e-fund. The policy also has some sort of "temporary living" terms that would help me out. What I couldn't afford is if my apartment burned down and it was blamed on me and I was sued for damages. I chose a high deductable, but also high "liability" coverage. It was only $163 for the year, and it was close to $300 for a more "reasonable" deductable of $1000 or $500.
The problem I've run into is that Spring semester starts next week, and I am still finalizing my start date for my new job (most likely, February 1st). There is a class I'd really like to take this semester, but I don't want to pay for it out of my own pocket. I've been trying to get an answer from my new job about whether they will pay the bill for me (even some prorated ammount), or if I have to take a semester off from my distance learning program.
The cost for one class would be rough $1600. I could take this out of savings. Why would I do this, when employers typically pay for this cost? Well, I might do it in hopes that I can work something out with my new manager and get them to reimburse it. I might do it because the class sounds interesting and isn't offered often. I might do it so it won't take me even longer to finish my degree program. Since I have been unable to get an answer from the new job, I have seriously been contemplating paying for it out of pocket.
When it comes down to it though, $1600 is just too much money for me to spend. Here's to hoping they get me an answer soon!
In other news, I purhcased my rental insurance from Geico last night, with a 5k deductable. The reason I'm getting rental insurance, despite the fact that the value of the things in my apartment is probably less than the deductable, is the liability issues. The general rule (for me at least) is to insure yourself against thigns you can't afford to have happen. If my apartment burned down, I could afford to replace my belongings. That is why I have an e-fund. The policy also has some sort of "temporary living" terms that would help me out. What I couldn't afford is if my apartment burned down and it was blamed on me and I was sued for damages. I chose a high deductable, but also high "liability" coverage. It was only $163 for the year, and it was close to $300 for a more "reasonable" deductable of $1000 or $500.
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Showing posts with label Education. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Education. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Brilliant!
I think I mentioned I'm re-applying to graduate school. I have 9/30 credits completed (through distance education while working) at "University A", in the state I formerly lived in. I could continue on this path, taking 3 credits a semester (6 a year) and graduate in 3.5 years. University A is usually ranked in the 30s or 40s in my field.
My new job is more flexible about where you do your education. (Actually, they'll pay for almost anything, even non-job related. I think I'm taking sailing this spring!) I now have access to another (distance education) program at "University B" a top 10 engineering college. Even better, they are on the quarter system, require just nine courses, and I can take four each year. They also will accept two transfer credits, meaning if they accept my application, I'll be done in under two years! It'll also be a boost to my resume, as I went to a relatively no-name undergrad university. It also probably will be a lot more work and a very difficult two years... but it should pay off big time in the long run.
I was already really sold on this idea but I just came up with yet another great benefit. At "University B", each class is four credits, which by their system would classify me as a "half time" student. So what does that mean? Well, my student loans are Federal Subsidized Stafford loans, meaning while I'm enrolled in school at least half time, the government will pay the interest for me. I could also completely cease making payments if I wanted, freeing up $133 extra each month to invest/save. WOW! (I'll have to decide exactly what I plan to do when/if this whole thing is a reality)
In dollar terms, what does this mean? Well, last month the interest on my loan was roughly $75, so if I'm in this program for roughly two years, it'll save me about $1800. I can't wait until September to get this started! Let's hope that they accept me! I should find out within a few months!
Friday, February 8, 2008
Three Tips for (almost) Guaranteed Success!
I consider myself reasonably successful, and I hope to continue down the road to success as I get older. Trent over at the The Simple Dollar recently wrote an interesting post in which he shares some tips to improve your life. In light of this, I want to share with you exactly how I got to where I am today, and outline how you can do even better than I did! Here are the main four things I did right to get where I am today:
Luck: I was born in the USA, lucky me! I think that is the single most important thing to my success (though other first world countries could have been acceptable).
Family: We were not in poverty, though there were some money issues at times. That helps a heck of a lot when trying to get through life. I was well fed and actually went to a private high school. Most of all, there was a ton of emotional support. My dad in particular placed high priority on education, as he did not finish college himself. We were encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities, and my parents shelled out for a lot of lessons, sports and extra classes. I used to go to summer school for fun to take extra classes! They provided some minor monetary support in college, and allowed me to stay at home rent free while for a couple semesters.
Natural ability: Not everyone can get through the engineering coursework with good grades. I'm not meaning to be arrogant--there are a ton of things that I stink at. But my ability to understand math is genetic--I did nothing special to earn it.
Hard work: I have spent many many hours investing in my education and myself. It isn't always fun, but it is rewarding.
To a lesser degree, the following two things helped:
Federal Support: I received scholarships and financial aid to attend college. Without it, I'd be at least 20k more in student loan debt. For a state school!
Social connections: I got the interview for my current job because my boyfriend was going to a top grad school, met someone who worked here, and passed on my resume. Most people who work here are from big name schools. Not I! Other than that, I didn't get a lot of advantages from social connections, yet. My parents don't have powerful friends, nor did I go to a prestigious school. But I've seen it happen with others a lot.
Based in my successes, I have three surefire tips for success. You'll may have to combine these with hard work to guarantee success. Still, with just a little work, you'll have a good shot at a successful life if you do these three things:
- Be born in a good country. Even better, pick a good neighborhood, and maybe consider avoiding being a minority group. You could even consider being male, though I wasn't and don't want to be!
- Have a good family. The more money the easier it will be for you, but even more importantly, they have to care about you. Not only that, they must have the time and knowledge to invest in your future, as well as the ability to lead you along in your early years. And maybe in your young adult years too, if you are lucky!
- Be gifted. Intelligence is a good gift to have, or perhaps extreme artistic talent. Both would be great, but there are some other options I'm sure. Have some charisma and a go-getter personality. While you are at it, make sure you are healthy and it wouldn't hurt to be attractive too.
All joking aside, hard work is very important and can help a lot of people. What about "working smart"? Personally, that term gets on my nerves. I think it is overused and largely meaningless. However, if you think you can find a way to "work smart", go for it. If you don't really understand what "work smart" means in your life (I don't!) just work hard while you are contemplating it.
My point is, you do have to play your cards right, but it is silly to pretend we all got a similar hand.
Friday, February 1, 2008
One week until paycheck
I just completed my first week at my new job, and will get paid next week. Let me just stay, I can not wait!
Work, so far, is horribly boring. I know it will get better, but they haven't exactly fit me into a program, so I've just been chillin' and doing a LOT of online training. But I'm a hard worker, so it is frustrating to just be sitting here, when I know all my friends at my last job are working their butts off.
By the way, applying to graduate school is expensive. I was accepted to a pretty good school at my last job (usually ranked about 30 or so in my major), but I now have access to a degree from top ten university. They will accept 2 of the 3 classes I have taken, and are on a quarter system, so I will be done with my M.S. degree more quickly. It will be a lot of work, but a better education overall. It will also help my resume out, as my undergrad institution is relatively unknown. My current company will pay for pretty much everything, including books.
In order to apply to the new school, I have paid:
-$60 application fee
-$24 for 2 transcripts from my previous grad school
-$12 for 2 transcripts from my undergrad school
I have opted NOT to send transcripts from my study abroad university (too much of a hassle, probably only about $15 plus international mail) and not order official GRE scores ($20 or so). Still, it is easily $100 a school to apply!
They will eventually be reimbursed to me, as long as I remember to file for it once I've completed my first class. My fees for the previous school I applied for were also reimbursed (and the GRE fee), so I am fortunate. But had I gone to grad school right away, I'd be facing these costs as a poor college student. That just seems wrong, but there aren't many ways around it.
This is one of many reasons I am really excited for my paycheck. Thank goodness for a healthy savings account!
Friday, January 11, 2008
Tuition Reimbursement and Rental Insurance Update
In my industry, tuition reimbursement is pretty common. My current job has it, and my new job actually pays the tuition up front for you.
The problem I've run into is that Spring semester starts next week, and I am still finalizing my start date for my new job (most likely, February 1st). There is a class I'd really like to take this semester, but I don't want to pay for it out of my own pocket. I've been trying to get an answer from my new job about whether they will pay the bill for me (even some prorated ammount), or if I have to take a semester off from my distance learning program.
The cost for one class would be rough $1600. I could take this out of savings. Why would I do this, when employers typically pay for this cost? Well, I might do it in hopes that I can work something out with my new manager and get them to reimburse it. I might do it because the class sounds interesting and isn't offered often. I might do it so it won't take me even longer to finish my degree program. Since I have been unable to get an answer from the new job, I have seriously been contemplating paying for it out of pocket.
When it comes down to it though, $1600 is just too much money for me to spend. Here's to hoping they get me an answer soon!
In other news, I purhcased my rental insurance from Geico last night, with a 5k deductable. The reason I'm getting rental insurance, despite the fact that the value of the things in my apartment is probably less than the deductable, is the liability issues. The general rule (for me at least) is to insure yourself against thigns you can't afford to have happen. If my apartment burned down, I could afford to replace my belongings. That is why I have an e-fund. The policy also has some sort of "temporary living" terms that would help me out. What I couldn't afford is if my apartment burned down and it was blamed on me and I was sued for damages. I chose a high deductable, but also high "liability" coverage. It was only $163 for the year, and it was close to $300 for a more "reasonable" deductable of $1000 or $500.
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