World Kindness Day : Thanks for Giving a Helping Hand

Posted on by Alicia Jacobs

November 13 is World Kindness Day, but it doesn’t take an official date on the calendar to make the world a better place. Everyone can make a difference in the life of someone else with a thinking-of-you text, a nice gesture, or doing something to make life a little sweeter.

excelsior staff volunteer at salvation army

Acts of Kindness Through Excelsior Cares

At Excelsior College, employees help with community events, drives, and fundraisers to expand the College’s mission of service to the underserved by assisting with critical needs of the community.

Throughout the year, employees support a variety of causes and volunteer individually and collectively to show Excelsior Cares. Employees are also offered Volunteer Time Off (VTO) to participate in community activities during the workday. In 2018, 138 staff members helped 52 organizations and donated 541 VTO hours.

Looking back at 2018, Excelsior employees also made an impact on some large community projects. During Excelsior Cares Volunteer Week this past April, 108 volunteers helped with 23 community projects at such organizations as Veterans Miracle Center, Ronald McDonald House, Crohn’s Colitis Foundation, Salvation Army, Cystic Fibrosis, Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, Alzheimer’s Association, American Heart Association, Special Olympics, and JDRF. The National Volunteer Week projects included sorting inventory items, cooking, promoting upcoming charity events, painting, feeding the hungry, and cleaning. This was significant as both the size and scope of projects increased from a year ago when 57 employees helped with 9 community projects during Volunteer Week.

Excelsior Cares

Why is the Excelsior Cares culture of giving so important? For employees, helping the community is a chance to learn about themselves and others. It is a chance to appreciate what they have when you see firsthand others who are less fortunate. It is also an opportunity for employees to learn about services provided by many non-profits in the community and perhaps refer others to. It is also a chance to meet and work with colleagues from various units across the College while serving great causes.

Beyond feeling good and helping others, the feedback we receive from organizations is inspiring. For example, Nancy Pechony, logistics director from Veterans Miracle Center, stated, “It was wonderful having your group here. They were a great blessing to us, enabling us to get so much more humanitarian aid packaged to go out than we ever could have with just our own staff. Thank you more than words can express!”

Carolyn Braunius, associate director of development, Capital District Region, Special Olympics New York, shared, “Thank you so much for letting Special Olympics New York be a part of Excelsior Cares volunteer day! We had such a great time working with the volunteers from the College, and they made such a huge difference for us here at our organization! Five volunteers worked seamlessly with staff and five of our athletes to clean out and organize our equipment storage facilities.”

In addition to Volunteer Week, in 2018, employees raised more than $3,000 from a themed gift baskets fundraiser to support local community projects in need of assistance throughout the year. They donated to special collection drives like Adopt a Family and Toys for Tots and collected 646 pounds of food for the Regional Food Bank’s inaugural Hunger Action Challenge.

Planning for 2019 community engagement activities has begun, and Excelsior employees look forward to lending a helping hand on world kindness day and beyond throughout the Capital Region.

Faculty Profile: Randy Holt

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

“Don’t give up.” “Don’t be shy.” “Don’t be afraid to ask questions.” Randy Holt’s advice to students is vast and supportive. He may be a technology instructor for Excelsior College, but he has more to teach his students than just technology.

Holt has been with Excelsior since 2015, and teaches Technology in Society, which covers technological change from historical, artistic, and philosophical perspectives, and its effect on human needs and concerns. In addition to his teaching background, he supervises the Distributed Controls Group at Dominion Energy, Cove Point LNG in Lusby, Md. “In my 14 years of service at the facility, I’ve served as an operator and a controls technician,” says Holt. He earned a MS in National Cybersecurity Policy and an MBA from the University of Maryland.

Holt understands the difficulties of the adult learner. He knows that coursework takes time and recommends students do not take on too much at once for fear of burning themselves out. He says, “Prior to signing up for a course, think about the lifestyle you want to maintain while you are engaging in your coursework and ensure you can manage the balance.”

He also recommends students take advantage of what Excelsior has to offer, particularly pointing out the free writing resources like the Online Writing Lab. “Being able to write and communicate effectively is very important, particularly in the work place,” says Holt. He notes that working on assignments earlier in the week can be helpful because you can have someone else proofread your work. Oftentimes, having a second set of eyes makes all the difference.” He admits that technology is evolving at a rapid pace, but this can mean more opportunities for collaboration with other students. Holt tells students to reach out to fellow group members when working in groups. “Don’t be shy! The earlier you get involved in the process, the more successful you will be. Don’t sit back and wait for people to contact you,” he says.

Personal connections are not just beneficial for educational reasons. Holt’s networking advice to students is to use established relationships to create new opportunities. “Remember,  always be pleasant to those you encounter. If people understand that you are good with people, they will be more likely to hire you,” he says.

For those students looking for jobs, Holt says to never give up and to keep applying. “It may take time and it will definitely take lots of energy, but don’t give up,” he says. He reminds students that to land a dream job, they may have to relocate, but to not count that out. Sometimes it will be end up being a great opportunity. And, within the workplace, Holt says to “trust but verify.” His advice is to “be sure to preform your own independent analysis prior to relying on the recollection, or word, of others.” He also reminds students to never be afraid to ask questions.

In his spare time, Holt can be found spending time with his wife Christie and their two Goldendoodle dogs. It’s clear his passion is helping his students; when asked what he loves most about teaching for Excelsior, he says, “I really enjoy learning about the various backgrounds of the students.” If anything is for certain, it’s that his students enjoy learning from him, too.

 

 

Why You Need a Career Plan

Posted on by Maribeth Gunner

Some people will spend extensive energy preparing for a trip, meticulously arranging every detail of their excursion, but they will not invest the same time and effort planning for their future careers. How about you? Do you make time to review your professional goals and ambitions? Are you satisfied with your current job, or do you wonder about other options that could be a better fit? Establishing and implementing a career plan can help answer these questions and more. Career planning is a beneficial process used to map out the steps, skills, goals, and even the people you will need to help you reach your professional aspirations.

Engaging in periodic review of your current career status is more essential now than ever before. We live in a fast-paced, information-driven, knowledge-based global economy where the work world is changing at a rapid pace, and the skills you need change just as fast. The future will bring new and different employment options which will require you to be adaptable, resourceful, and proactive. One way to ensure you will always be ready and responsive to advance in the job market is to create a plan based on an assessment of your current knowledge, skills, interests, values, and goals. A flexible career strategy is also necessary to allow for happenstance within your plan, both personally and professionally. Chances are you may refine your career direction several times over your lifetime. Whether you are just formulating your first career plan or reviewing an older one, here are some tips to consider as you move forward:

 

  • Conduct a Career Self-Assessment: Take a formal or informal inventory of your current career values, interests, skills, strengths, and lifestyle preferences. What is most meaningful to you at this point in your life? Is it a high salary? Benefits? Work flexibility? What are you really interested in? Is there something new you want to, or need to learn to remain competitive in your field? Identify your transferable skills. Are there strengths you can apply to another line of work, or skills you can hone for your current position?
  • Research Your Career Field: Once you know more about the level of career satisfaction, and/or the skills you wish to polish, look for opportunities to gain advancement. Seek education options, job entry points, both within your organization and externally. Use online sources to research current market trends. Where is job growth expected? What is the outlook for your line of work? Investigate the Occupational Outlook Handbook (https://www.bls.gov/ooh/) by the Bureau of Labor Statistics to learn more.
  • Make Informed Decisions: Once you have gathered good information, reflect. If you are considering a change, evaluate the pros and cons. Consider risks, if any. Are you happy where you are? Do you need additional training? Consult trusted contacts. Prioritize as needed. Then, determine the best solution for moving forward.
  • Set Goals: Look at where you are— and where you want to be. Do the next steps you have chosen seem reasonable? Logical? Set short-term goals to follow (0–3 years), and long-term goals to reach (3–5 years). Make sure the goals you develop are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely).
  • Document Your Plan: Write it down. Include the steps/goals you have decided on and corresponding dates. Add whatever other information is helpful to you. Remember that the plan should have structure but also be flexible. Consider posting it in a place where you can see it. If you need a template, visit Excelsior College Action Plan. Refer to it throughout the year. Revise it as needed. Note when you have achieved something. Acknowledge your accomplishments and celebrate!

Benefits of Career Planning

No matter what industry you are in, or what level position you hold, career planning can become an integral component of your professional life. This beneficial process will help you gain more control, instill a stronger sense of purpose, and create a more definitive vision for your future. Break free from any self-imposed limitations, and realize the full potential of your abilities. Select a time that works best for you; perhaps the New Year or early spring. Whatever you choose, commit to continuous lifelong learning, and devote some time to review your career plan each year. Then, go ahead and spend the rest of your energy arranging that next trip. Learn more about Excelsior College’s 3+1 program.

How to Negotiate Salary

Posted on by Excelsior Staff

NEGOTIATE A FAIR SALARY BY PLANNING AHEAD

Most job seekers agree — the one aspect of a job search that causes the most angst is how to negotiate salary. The most important decision you’ll consider when contemplating a job offer is whether or not the compensation for the position is accept­able. Once you have secured an interview and proven to be a top candidate, the subject of salary is inevitable. Salary negotiation is complex mainly because there are many other things that you can be missing out on if you don’t ask about them, and the way you do this is you bring them up, with an excited energy to be a part of the company and contribute in the role, but wanting to work out what’s fair for both of you. How can you be sure to negotiate the best salary? With some basic knowledge and proactive preparation, you can reduce your stress and increase your potential for a success­ful salary outcome.

KNOW WHAT YOU WANT

Preparing for effective salary negotiating should begin well before the job interview. Evaluating your priorities and examining your needs is a good starting point. What do you want to attain in your next career step? What type of organization do you want to work for? The size, scope, and mission of an organization will dictate the type of compensation package that is offered.

For example, a small business may not offer as competitive a salary as a larger one, but it may provide comparable benefits that augment salary, such as stock options or comprehensive health benefits. Would you accept a lower salary as a trade-off? What if other benefits are offered? You need to consider your bottom line. Review your personal budget. What amount do you need to sustain or enhance your lifestyle? What is the minimum offer that you will accept? Assessing your wants and needs prior to the interview will help to define your desired work/life balance and allow you to confidently pursue salary negotiation. According to PayScale, 25 percent of those who negotiate get more than they expected.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

Another important task to complete, prior to an interview, is researching salary information pertaining to the job you are seeking. It is critical to know what both the job and you are worth to ensure the best bargaining power when negotiating. Compensation is not determined solely by your experience and abilities. Other factors affect potential salary, including geographic location, economic conditions, trends in the industry, size of the organization, job level, and the overall status of the job market. For successful salary negotiation, you need to determine the fair market value for the position you are seeking in your specified geographic location.

There are several online resources that can aid in your research such as salary calculators, salary surveys, and cost-of-living calculators. The Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook, features salary information, job descriptions, and an employment forecast for each industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also offers a thorough package of employment information and statistics by region. These tools are generally free and designed to provide an overview of salary information that is pertinent to your specific situation. Salary calculators compute salaries for jobs by title, industry, and geographic location. Some salary calculators will also provide more personalized reports for a fee. Salary surveys, too, reflect the general range of compensation awarded for jobs in your career field by occu­pation, industry, and location. Some salary surveys also provide information on starting salaries based on college major. Don’t forget to ask friends and alums of your school who work in the industry what a typical starting salary for a new graduate is in the job of your choice.

To determine if a specific employer’s salary offer is reasonable, you need to have good assessment of what the going rate is for the position you are seeking. Professional associations in your field are another excellent source of salary information that cannot be overlooked. These associations often conduct regular salary surveys of their members, which yield the most current and job-specific salary information. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Occupational Outlook Handbook are two additional web tools that provide helpful data and statistics on salaries. Although salary surveys and calculators provide good estimations, the results may not match your job description exactly. However, the informa­tion can still be useful as a baseline for what is generally standard in your field. It’s a good idea to investigate more than one of these resources to obtain several perspectives. If you plan to relocate for a job, cost-of-living calculators are good indicators of what you’ll need to earn in order to make a living in various locations in the U.S. For example, a larger city may have a much higher cost of living than a small city or town. It is important to allow for differences in the cost of living when determin­ing the salary you will seek in a new location.

The more information you gather about the current overall job market — and your value within that market — the stronger founda­tion you’ll have to successfully negotiate and maximize your chances for an optimal compen­sation package.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR NEGOTIATIONS

Once you’ve done your research and have a good understanding of the compensation you’re worth, you will be prepared to talk salary. Many employers have an established range of salaries budgeted for specific jobs, and they anticipate that a candidate will bargain. There are several points to consider in the negotiation process:

  1. During the interview, avoid being the first to mention salary. Allow the employer to introduce the topic. Delaying any salary discussion opens the door for you to tout your strengths and establish why you are the right one for the job, before compensation is determined. Postponing the topic of salary also provides time for you to glean more information about what the position entails. When it is evident that there is a strong mutual interest, and you are deemed to be an exceptional candidate, place the onus on the employer to pitch the best offer. You’ll have greater leverage for successful negotiation.
  2. Be aware that some employers may attempt to engage you in a salary discussion early in the interview process. In this case, you may need to take a different tack. You don’t want your response to price you out of the job or invite an offer that is less than the going rate. If asked what your salary requirements are, try not to disclose a specific figure that could minimize your bargaining power. If you must quote a baseline number, remember to ensure that it is one you know will fully support, if not improve your current lifestyle.

Here’s a few optional responses:

  • Explain that you would like to know more about the expectations and duties of the position, prior to the salary discussion.
  • Indicate that your salary requirements are contingent upon review of the total compensation package being offered.
  • Focus your reply on a salary you believe to be commensurate with the job responsibilities, based upon your previous research.

If asked about your salary history, be honest. If your previous salary was consider­ably higher or lower than the range being offered, be prepared to address this. Be creative. Contextualize your past salary. Note if there was a difference in location or size of the prior organization. Highlight any addi­tional benefits you may have received, such as extensive health care coverage or invest­ment options that account for the disparity in compensation.

Remember: During a salary negotiation, you and the employer are working toward a shared goal. Be prepared to compromise. If you are not successful at negotiating the exact salary you want, consider asking for other alternatives to achieve your objective. It is also important to consider the benefits offered as they can significantly add to your base pay.

While benefits are considered standard for many employers and may not be negotiable, some do offer flexible benefit packages that provide employees with choices. A trade-off might be to secure an increased pension plan, flexible working hours, tuition reimbursement, bonuses, additional vacation time, or coverage of moving expenses. At this point, pursuing all options can bring you closer to your desired goal.

Of course, always maintain a positive and professional communication style when nego­tiating. Your demeanor during negotiations gives the employer a view of who you are. Even if you don’t take the job, you never know if your paths may cross in future business situations. When salary negotiations conclude, and an offer is made, it is prudent to ask for time to review the offer — if you are still unsure.

Once you do accept the job offer, it is important to get the final offer in writing. Regardless of whether you choose to accept or decline, be sure to confirm your response in writing and acknowledge your appreciation for the employer’s time and efforts.

5 MORE TIPS ON HOW TO NEGOTIATE SALARY

Sufficient preparation for salary negotiations can change a challenging aspect of the job search process into a rewarding experience. Sharpening your salary negotiation skills will give you the tools you need to get the compen­sation you deserve and set your career path in the right direction.

In addition to the tips mentioned above, Maribeth Gunner, Director of Career Services offers these five tips to help you in your next salary negotiation.

Editor’s note: Text adapted from Maribeth Gunner Pulliam’s article, “Sharpen Your Salary Negotiating Skill,” Live & Learn, Spring/Summer 2007.  Maribeth Gunner Pulliam is the director of Career Services at Excelsior College. 

Alternative Medicine: Therapeutic Touch

Posted on by Nicole Helstowski

Continuous learning has always been one aspect of my role as a registered nurse. This year, I began searching for ways to integrate holistic care for patients. A colleague encouraged me to explore alternative therapies to support my nursing practice and I discovered therapeutic touch.

Therapeutic touch is an evidence-based healing modality that is grounded in the assumption that all humans have energy fields that extend beyond their physical body. Established in the late 1970s by Dolores Krieger, PhD, RN, and the late Dora Kunz, therapeutic touch promotes many aspects of healing for individuals. For various reasons, a person’s energy field may require redirection or repatterning to facilitate physical and emotional healing.

According to Therapeutic Touch International Association, therapeutic touch practitioners use four phases during a session, which include centering (and setting an intention), assessment (holding hands over the recipient’s body to assess the human energy field), rebalancing (moving energy through the field based off the assessment cues), and reassessment (to ensure the energy field is flowing). The effects of emotional, spiritual, and physical stressors can take a toll on our body’s ability to regulate homeostasis. Because of the large amount of evidence that supports a relaxation response and stimulation of the body’s immune response in recipients of therapeutic touch, I decided to pursue certification as a qualified therapeutic touch practitioner.

While my initial intention for pursuing therapeutic touch certification was to create a more holistic nursing care for my patients, I have discovered an unexpected self-fulfillment in its practice. To center oneself to enter another person’s energy field with positive intentions, I have learned how to pause and slow down from the rapid pace of the work environment. I have learned how to create the space to connect with another individual on a higher level. I have also become more conscious of how my actions and energy can impact another person. This enhanced self-awareness has significantly impacted my practice as a nurse.

My practice in therapeutic touch has also reinforced the need for self-care in nursing. As an educator of nursing students, I feel it is not enough to teach and advocate for self-care; I must practice it, too. Meditation, quiet reflection, and centering help, so I am in an optimal state to care for my patients and students. I have evolved from a registered nurse who anticipated the physical and emotional needs of my patient to a registered nurse who connects with patients to individualize the care I provide with additional treatment modalities. Therapeutic touch has provided me with an opportunity to develop a more comprehensive approach to patient care. I am enjoying this new avenue of professional learning as I progress with the practice of therapeutic touch.

 

Disclaimer: The views expressed here are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of Excelsior College, its trustees, officers, or employees.

Degrees at Work: James Davenport

Posted on by Maria C. Sparks

Eight-hour work days. Flexible scheduling. Daily meetings and, occasionally, working from multiple locations in a single day.

Ask Excelsior College graduate James Davenport about his career, and these conventional details are part of the description. But as technology manager for applicant testing in the Office of Marketing, Outreach, and Testing at the National Security Agency (NSA), these particulars are where the typical aspects of Davenport’s existence end—and the daily challenge of being a vital cog in the U.S. government begins.

“Every day is a challenge,” says Davenport, who earned his Bachelor of Science in History (with an area of study in computer information science) from Excelsior College in November 2008. “I think the best part of my job is when I am able to implement a solution. Critical thinking and collaboration between the various levels of program management, network security, system and program developers, and system administrators play a part in the building and execution of those solutions.”

During his five years as a civilian with the NSA, the U.S. Navy veteran has held multiple roles, including three positions—liaison officer, training manager, and mission assurance continuity specialist—within one of the agency’s cyber organizations. Today, his information technology-focused position helps manage the cyber needs of a small organization of recruiters, system administrators, and developers concerned with applicant testing for eventual NSA careers and security clearances.

It’s a lot of responsibility, requiring a significant amount of time management and self-discipline. Thankfully, Davenport has been able to implement these traits in part because of his Excelsior education.

“At any time, I can have 10 or more competing projects, and setting time aside for each of them can be difficult,” he says. “I work better with deadlines, so I tend to set my own. This is something influenced by [my experience at] Excelsior.”

After initially enrolling at the College in July 2007 for the remaining credits toward an Associate in Applied Science in Technical Studies and earning that degree late that same year, he immediately re-enrolled to earn his bachelor’s. His bachelor’s degree put him on the path toward a commission in the Navy, and later to the position with the NSA. “I did a lot of long days, nights, and weekends working on my courses, but eventually I was able to apply to Officer Candidate School in November 2008 and attain my commission in the Navy in August of 2009,” says Davenport.

Davenport had enlisted in the Navy as a cryptologic technician (communications) following graduation from high school and had taken some courses while deployed before finding Excelsior College. The online experience at Excelsior was conducive to his Navy life. “I felt that I didn’t have time to attend [a physical location], and as a working professional, I still don’t think I have time for that.”

Today, his education has served him well, and it’s prepared him to take on—and conquer—the professional challenges that have come his way.

More from James Davenport:

Networking tips

Keep a robust network in not just your field but in all disciplines. You never know where a connection will come from. “Many times, someone outside of my profession has helped me,” says Davenport. “Write down who you have met and what they do, and keep in contact with them. Keep business cards and scan them to a file on your computer.”

Time management

Set time and space aside to manage your coursework. Davenport juggled shift work and family life with his education, but he was able to do it by dedicating periods solely to his Excelsior requirements. “I learned early on that you need a place to study away from distractions,” he says. “For me, this meant to use an actual desktop and not a laptop. It kept me tethered and away from [interruptions].”

Picking an area of study

Davenport earned a degree in history at Excelsior, which has certainly informed his professional perspective. But for students coming up, he sees need in a burgeoning sector. “Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM)-related careers are in demand and will continue to be for the foreseeable future,” he says. “When I talk to anyone who is considering a major, I highly suggest a STEM discipline.”

The best advice he’s received on the job—so far

Shifts—whether with school, work, or family—are an inevitability. Davenport knows this, but he’s thrived with advice to understand that adjustment to these shifts doesn’t happen overnight. “Change takes time, and change is always a challenge,” he says. “I’m always dealing with change one way or another, and I’ve yet to see a task that was easy.”

 

 

Jason Hamerlinck Turns Pizza Hut Work Experience into Degree Credit

Posted on by Excelsior Staff

Jason Hamerlinck started his career with Pizza Hut in high school as a server at his home-town restaurant. More than 20 years later, he is the talent acquisition manager for the Little Rock and Georgia Regions and the new program ambassador for NPC’s educational partnership with Excelsior College.

Hamerlinck decided to go back to school after building a successful career with NPC.

“Going back to school has always been one of those ‘bucket list’ items for me,” Hamerlinck said. “But being out of school for 20 years and going back is not an easy decision.”

In September 2016, Hamerlinck enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Business program.

“What really sealed the deal for me to actually get started was that with Excelsior, I was not starting totally over. The credits that I had from prior universities transferred to Excelsior. However, the biggest selling point for me was the ability to use Learning Zone and work experience as college credits. This was huge because with those credits, I was less than two years away from a degree. I had to try it out. The discounted rate for Pizza Hut employees was also a big win.”

Through a partnership with Excelsior College, NPC provides higher education opportunities to all Pizza Hut employees and their immediate family members through a 45 percent discount on tuition, waived fees, and allowing employees to apply LEAD training courses as credits toward their chosen degree program.

As an ambassador, Hamerlinck will be an invaluable resource for NPC employees who are considering a degree though Excelsior or are working through the program.

“I hope to spread the opportunity of continued learning,” he said. “Part of our Leadership Swagger is having an open mind and being an active learner. Excelsior is such a great opportunity for people who are working to continue their education, and it could open doors for so many people if they would explore this option. I think that the more I get involved, it will help NPC become a stronger company and help build leaders for the future.”

Hamerlinck, originally from the Quad City area in Illinois, grew up on a farm until his family moved to Hot Springs, Arkansas, when he was a teenager. He moved to Conway, Arkansas, after high school and started college there. Needing a part-time job to cover college expenses,  Hamerlinck knew that he made good money as a server and had a lot of fun doing it, so he applied and was hired as a Pizza Hut server in Conway.

The general manager of the restaurant saw something in Hamerlinck that he couldn’t even see in himself at the time — an ability to lead — and pushed him to become a shift manager. From there, his career took off. He transferred to the unit across town to become an assistant manager, and soon after, he was given the opportunity to take over as restaurant general manager.

“This was a lower-volume unit, and I had a lot of success,” Hamerlinck said. “I realized at that time, this was a place for a potential future. I also knew that if I ever wanted to move up, I needed to take over a higher volume unit.”

Then the opportunity to run one of the Delco units in Little Rock came open, so of course, he took it. While in Little Rock, Hamerlinck ran four different units.

“I wanted to move into multi-unit leadership and was training to move up,” Hamerlinck said. “But at this same time, the Region went through a lot of changes, and I left the company.”

About two years later, Jason received a call from the regional manager, who wanted to talk to him about the opportunities for him to come back to Pizza Hut. He interviewed and earned an area manager position overseeing eight units. For the next five years, he covered most of the state of Arkansas as an area general manager (AGM).

“Then, I got approached about an opportunity,” he said. “And dumb me, I thought the grass was greener, so I left the company again. It wasn’t long before I realized the mistake that I had made.”

Hamerlinck decided to apply for a driver position at the local Pizza Hut to work part-time. “Luckily the RGM of this unit used to work for me and she gave me an opportunity to come back,” he said.

Eventually, the store became short-handed and he was asked to start running shifts on the weekend. And then, like before, his career with NPC started to take off, and he soon moved into an restaurant general manager role. “This was a store that I had opened as an AGM, so I was very familiar with it.” He ran this unit for three years before the opportunity to move into HR came available, and he’s now been in HR for going on three years.

 Throughout this wild ride with Pizza Hut, Jason was also growing his family. He met and married his wife, Jaime, and the couple is happily married with four amazing kids — Logan, Madison and twins, Hayes and Shelby.

“One of the best things about pursuing my degree with Excelsior is that I get to be a role model for my kids,” he said. “I have shown them that education is important — no matter how old you are.”

Learn more about how NPC and Pizza Hut will help you invest in your future through a degree with Excelsior College (including information about scholarship opportunities!) here!

About your experience with Excelsior:

The professors are very good. They know the material and they want you to be successful, as long as you make the effort and put in the work. I am majoring in Business. Using my experience has been beneficial in my classes, it has made me aware of “real world” situations and the professors appreciate the honest feedback. I am currently trying to decide if I will continue and get my master’s.

What are your career goals?

That is actually a tough question. After several years in operations, I have enjoyed the change to the HR role. I have been able to learn a different side of the business, which I think would make me better in operations. I would like to advance as far in the company as possible. I am hoping that completing my degree will open even more opportunities. If the right position became available, I would like to be considered.

What has been the best part about pursuing a degree with Excelsior?

All the people that have encouraged me along the way. My wife & kids have been great and understanding. My co-workers and supervisors all have supported me along this journey, and this support pushes me to finish. Also, the scholarships that I have received from NPC and Excelsior. This shows that the company supports me and this program.

What has been the hardest part?

I wouldn’t say this was the hardest part, but it was more of a mindset change. You have to dedicate yourself to your studies. You cannot hope to turn your assignments in last minute or not do the homework and think you will be successful. Yes, it works around your schedule, but you have to be dedicated. It is all about time management. You must manage family activities, work, and school at the same time. There have been some long nights after long days at work, but you must keep the goal in mind.

If there’s one thing you wish you’d have known before you got started, what would it be?

Ask a lot of questions. The staff is there to help you. It is easier to give them a call and help you set up financial aid or register for classes than trying to do it all yourself. Realize they are there to help you.

November Is Men’s Health Awareness Month

Posted on by Larry Purnell, PhD, RN, FAAN

Men’s Health Awareness is Lifelong

November is Men’s Health Awareness Month and the Movember Foundation uses the month to bring awareness to and support of those tackling prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide. June is Men’s Health Month; the purpose is to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys. The following are recommendations that are supported by evidence from scholarly journals and professional organizations and associations to improve men’s health.

Throughout the world, women live longer than men, although this gap varies tremendously in less developed countries. According to the CIA World Factbook, in the United States, average longevity for women is 82.2 years for women and 77.2 years for men, a five-year gap.  Many men have the mentality of “if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it” so if they cannot see or feel an external stimulus, they will think there is nothing ever wrong.  A majority of men are just not aware of what they can do to improve their health and live healthier and happier lives.

At a very least, get vaccinated. Everyone needs immunizations to stay healthy, no matter their age. Even if you were vaccinated as a child, you may need updates because immunity can fade with time. Vaccine recommendations are based on a range of factors, including age, overall health, and your medical history. Ask your health care provider or a pharmacist about the recommended vaccinations.

Recommendations for Men’s Health Beginning at Age 20 and Beyond

  1. Get an annual physical exam by your primary care provider, including blood pressure, and height/weight checks.
  2. Annually screen for testicular cancer that includes monthly self-exams.
  3. Have cholesterol testing every five years.
  4. Screen for diabetes, thyroid disease, liver problems, and anemia.
  5. Depending on risk factors, screen for skin cancer, sexually transmitted diseases and HIV infection, and alcohol and drug misuse.
  6. At 30, screen for coronary heart disease, especially with a strong family history of the disease and/or risk factors.
  7. At 40, screen for thyroid disease, liver problems, anemia, and prostate cancer.
  8. At 50, screen for cholesterol every five years; annually screen for Type II diabetes; lipid disorders; and skin, colon, and lung cancer. Obtain a shingles vaccine.
  9. At 60, screen for depression, osteoporosis, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and abdominal aortic aneurysm. Have a carotid artery ultrasound.
  10. At 70, depending on previous findings, some screenings may be done every six months.

Recommendations for Men’s Health Regardless of Age

  1. Men have more difficulty handling stress than women, partially because women have better social networks and more friends with whom then can confide. Thus, men should seek out more friends, whether they are male or female.
  2. Laughter increases endorphins, thereby increasing longevity. Get a sense of humor and engage with others with whom you can laugh.
  3. Avoid tobacco products and non-prescriptive drugs.
  4. Avoid excessive sun exposure.
  5. Research the reliability of vitamins or herbs before starting them. Make sure it is recommended by professionals, not just the manufacturer of the item.
  6. Don’t become a workaholic; it increases stress and can lead to health concerns such as hypertension and weight gain. Get a hobby that helps you decrease stress, exercise in the manner you prefer, and seek help with diet to maintain a desirable weight.
  7. Men, especially young men, are known for engaging in risky behaviors. Wear seatbelts, helmets when riding bicycles or motorcycles, don’t text or talk on the telephone when driving, and avoid friends who encourage illicit drug use and high alcohol consumption.
  8. If sexually active, get tested regularly for sexually transmitted infections. You might think you are safe if you engage in sexual activity with only one person, but that person might be having sexual relations with others, a concept called serial monogamy.
  9. The Guttmacher Institute reports that some boys start having sex at the age of 10 and that number increases each year until by the age of 20, 75 percent of men and boys engage sexual activity by the age of 20. Therefore, start safe-sex education at home and in school beginning at age of 10.

Disclaimer: The Men’s Health Awareness views expressed here are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of Excelsior College, its trustees, officers, or employees.

Prepping for a Behavioral Interview

Posted on by Excelsior Staff

Very few people like to be interviewed, and when stakes are high, such as for those who have been out of work for some time, those feelings can be amplified. You need to be prepared for all types and a variety of situations, which can include the behavioral interview. The behavioral interview is based on the premise that a person’s past behavior is the best predictor of his or her future performance on the job. Here’s how it works and how you can prepare.

WHAT IS A BEHAVIORAL INTERVIEW?

Today, preparing for traditional interviews may not be enough. Chances are that your next job interview will be a behavioral one, or include a majority of behavioral questions. This style of interviewing has gained wide acceptance among many public and private organizations of all sizes. In a behavioral job interview, employers ask for information about your prior work experiences and behaviors to ascertain how you might function on the job and assimilate into the culture of the organization.

Employers who use this technique to screen candidates believe the behaviors demonstrated in previous positions will most likely be repeated. For example, if you willingly took on new projects in the past, you would be likely to maintain that initiative in the future. Thus, in addition to identifying your knowledge and technical skills, a behavioral interview is designed to reveal past performance patterns that reflect your attitudes, abilities, and other personality traits employers consider equally essential to successful job performance.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Prior to the behavioral interview, employers analyze the target position and determine the important skills and characteristics that are needed for success on the job. Based on the job components and required competencies, a set of questions is developed that will help determine if the candidate will meet the established profile.

The behavioral interview is designed to get beyond generalities and examine specific actions. The interview format is highly structured and systematic. You will be asked very pointed questions about your past experiences. These inquiries are aimed at eliciting detailed responses that will determine if you possess the required competencies for the job.

Many employers also may use a rating system during the interview to evaluate essential job-related criteria that was predetermined for the job you are seeking. Generally, employers are assessing your responses to see if you have the following important skills: leadership, communication, decision-making, human relations, coping, problem analysis, teamwork, time management, goal setting, flexibility, emotional intelligence, and more.

Organizations that use the behavioral method of interviewing are seeking both the best person for the job and a cost-effective staffing process that will hopefully result in efficient transitions and low turnover rates. The behavioral interviewing style affords employers the ability to base their hiring decisions on actual job-related experiences and behaviors instead of potential scenarios for success.

BEHAVIORAL VERSUS TRADITIONAL INTERVIEWING

Unlike traditional interviews that allow you to expound on what you would or should do in a given situation, the behavioral interview focuses on your past actions only, illustrating how you behaved under particular circumstances. You may be accustomed to the broad-based questions in typical traditional interviews, such as “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” or “Why would you be the best person for this job?” These traditional inquiries allow candidates to outline their views on how they expect to meet future goals. The interviewer must then rely on his/ her judgment of the candidate’s responses and experience delineated on the resume.

In a behavioral interview, more specific probing questions are the norm, such as “Can you tell me about a time this past year when you had to persuade someone to accept your idea or proposal?” “What were the results?” Questions are often framed in the form of a request such as, “Lead me through your decision process in that situation.” After the initial inquiry, several follow-up questions will be posed to explore all aspects of a given experience and probe for consistency in your responses.

Although the depth and scope of behavioral interview questions may seem challenging, they can truly provide you with the opportu­nity to shine. As adults, you have amassed a variety of extensive educational, vocational, and avocational experiences that you can draw upon when answering behavioral interview inquiries. In addition to your work history and educational endeavors, you may also have many volunteer, military, and community activities that have served to shape and strengthen your skills and behaviors over the years. Taking the time to review and assess these experiences will help you to prepare for a behavioral interview.

HOW DO YOU PREPARE?

Here are several things to consider when preparing for a behavioral interview:

  • Know the position for which you are interviewing. Review the job description and determine what skills are required.
  • Assess yourself; identify your skills and experience related to the job objectives. Assessments can be a helpful tool to determine your attitude toward work and your skills. You need to clearly articulate your skills and personal attributes in the interview, but without fully exploring these issues, you may come up short when answering questions during the interview. Knowing your behavioral traits will also help you in the interviewing process. You need to have a strong sense of self to know how you would most likely react in the given situation and why; and be able to show why that response is appropriate. Additionally, when you know your values, motivations, etc., your enthusiasm when discussing them will come through in the interview.
  • Know your resume. It may be the springboard for many questions.
  • Recall recent situations that reflect positive behaviors or actions. Draw from a variety of experiences.
  • Prepare brief scenarios/descriptions of these situations. Use the STAR method; think of a Situation you encountered, describe the Tasks involved, and explain the Actions you took to achieve effective Results.
  • Be prepared to describe negative situations you have encountered as well. Employers recognize that we have all had missteps; try to choose an example where you made the best of the situation or achieved a favorable outcome.
  • Identify your selling points. Choose at least three of your strongest attributes and mention them during the interview.
  • Be honest. Don’t omit or embellish your answers.
  • Listen carefully before answering the questions. Give specific, detailed responses.

You will not be told ahead of time that an interview will be a behavioral one. You may also be asked a combination of traditional and behavioral questions. The best way for job candidates to approach any interview is to include the ideals of a behavioral interview in their preparation process. Identifying examples of past actions and situations that positively describe what you can do for the employer will give you a great advantage over candidates who did not anticipate behavioral questions.

Of course, whatever interview technique you come across in your job search, it is also important to remember to employ the basics of interview etiquette; arrive on time, be positive, use a firm handshake, make eye contact, be yourself, and write thank you notes to each person that interviewed you. Job interviewing can be a challenging endeavor. With adequate preparation for all interviewing styles, you can make the process less stressful and embrace the encounter with confidence. Once you do get the job, continue to track your professional experiences and accomplishments. That way, you will be well prepared for your next behavioral interview.

SAMPLE BEHAVIORAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

Below are some examples of typical behavioral questions that prospective employees might ask.  The competencies these questions attempt to assess are in parentheses.

  • Tell me about a time when you had to persuade other people to take action.   Were you successful? (leadership skills)
  • Describe a specific problem you solved for your employer.  How did you approach the problem? What was the outcome? (decision-making skills)
  • Give me an example of a time when you set a goal and were able to achieve it. (goal setting skills)
  • What is your typical way of dealing with conflict? Give me an example. (coping and communication skills).
  • Describe a time when you were involved in a project where the others involved were difficult to get along with.  How did you approach the situation? What was the outcome? (teamwork skills)
  • Tell me about a time when you failed to meet a deadline.  What were the repercussions? What did you learn? (time management skills)
  • Describe a situation in which you recognized a potential problem as an opportunity.  What did you do? (initiative).

*Adapted from Sample Behavioral Interview Questions.

— quintcareers.com/livecareer.com and Acing The Behavior Based Interview, Job Choices, February 2013, NACE

BIG INTERVIEW

Be sure to take advantage of one of the Career Center’s newest resources, Big Interview. Big Interview is a free, virtual interview preparation and mock interview tool, available 24/7 to help students and alumni to master the interview process at their own pace.

In the Learn Module, written materials and video tutorials assist with building and polishing interview skills, and you can use either a “fast track” or “mystery track” to practice your skills. In the Practice Module, you can practice unlimited mock interviews that include general, industry specific, competency based, government related, and veteran transition questions. Also build your perfect interview response using the STAR method in “Answer Builder.”

Whether you’re just starting out, interviewing for graduate school, advancing your career, or transitioning out of the military to the civilian workforce, Big Interview can assist you as you prepare.

 

Editor’s Note: Text adapted from Maribeth Gunner Pulliam’s article, Are You Ready for A Behavioral Interview?

 

Course Feature: HSC 320 Health Care Issues in Culturally Diverse Populations

Posted on by Craig Owens

Health Care Issues in Culturally Diverse Populations introduces students to the concepts of culture and cultural diversity as they relate to health care and the health care delivery system. Students explore religious, racial, ethnic, and other subcultures that exist in our society, and examine conflicts that often occur when differing cultures enter the health care arena.

Diversity is no longer someone else’s issue; it should and must be an issue for everyone. You can’t watch the news, explore the internet, follow Twitter, or spend time in any of our communities without experiencing human diversity in one form or another. Just looking at age and race/ethnicity alone illustrates a dramatic shift in demographics in America. Per the U.S. Census projections released in 2015; “By 2030, one in five Americans is projected to be 65 and over; by 2044, more than half of all Americans are projected to belong to a minority group (any group other than non-Hispanic White alone); and by 2060, nearly one in five of the nation’s total population is projected to be foreign born.” This means in as short a time as 25 years from now, there will no longer be any single dominant racial group in this country; something we have not seen since the country was founded in 1776!

HSC 230 is an exciting course, and each week we delve into a new and controversial area of diversity. The discussions in this course are unlike any others I have been a part of. We dig deep into crucial and provocative topics and students love that aspect. We don’t always agree, but we have amazing conversations that result in increased understanding and appreciation of our differences.

In week one, students watch an engaging video titled, “The Danger of a Single Story,” and our conversations begin in earnest. In week two, we explore how amazing our health care delivery system can be if we all practice from a position of cultural humility. Students have a unique opportunity to participate in an interactive online activity that provides them with feedback and insight on their own hidden beliefs and biases about diverse cultures. This is always an eye-opening and engaging process that generates a lot of student interest and conversation. From there, we use the touching and heart-wrenching story, “The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down” by Anne Fadiman as a springboard to deeper reflection and conversation about what happens when cultures clash in health care settings. As the course progresses, students explore a range of diverse healthcare issues beginning with LGBT challenges in today’s health care system. From there, we explore the relationship between our spirituality, race and ethnicity, social class, and our overall health and health care experience.

This course is full of engaging videos, websites, and current readings on health care with diverse populations in America today. The discussions are among the best you will find in any college course on any topic. If you are someone who likes to explore new ground and you like hearing how others feel about some of the most significant issues facing society today, then this is the course for you.

Here is what some of our students have said about this course: “…I have walked away from this course with great understanding in cultural diversity in healthcare. I learned so much and am very pleased I took this course.” and “I think the instructor did a great job providing discussions that helped facilitate learning. I was able to learn a lot about cultural sensitivity and humility in healthcare that will benefit in my career. Overall, I’m very happy with this course and glad I chose to take it.”

Mercedes Acuna’s Career Follows Her Moves from Base to Base

Posted on by Maria C. Sparks

Seven years ago, Mercedes Acuña—military spouse and mother of three—earned the Adult Learner of the Year Award from the American Council of Education. It was a prestigious honor accepted by Acuña at ACE’s Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C.; for the Excelsior student and now alum, it augmented an education that was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.

It was also just a stop on a continuously shifting journey, and one that continues to provide twists and turns for the former student.

“It’s had its ups and downs, but I’m glad I’m here now,” says Acuña, now living in Camp Humphreys, South Korea. Working as a SHARP (Sexual Harassment, Assault Response, and Prevention) instructor, she teaches soldiers and civilians how to become victim advocates, and has been doing the work for five years—in several places: Fort Campbell, Kentucky, where she lived from 2010 to 2015; Fort Lee, Virginia, until March 2018; then to her current home in South Korea.

And all this for a student whose nine-year path to a bachelor’s degree was executed from locales in New York, Hawaii, and Germany. She’s now in a vocation that speaks to her passion: helping people. As for the position, it’s not exactly what she intended when she earned her Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts (with a concentration in Criminal Justice) from Excelsior in 2008, but it’s a career that was enabled by her Excelsior experience.

“It certainly helps open more doors for you when you have an education,” says Acuña. “As a military spouse, it’s helped having the degrees because you’re always on the move—and you have to reinvent yourself every single time. When employers [in every new stop] see that you have a degree, it helps.”

Since leaving Excelsior, Acuña earned a master’s in conflict and negotiation management, which has helped solidify her current role as a SHARP instructor working with families in crisis situations. Her work toward her degrees showed that she has the drive and initiative to complete whatever tasks are put in front of her.

“Those degrees really helped me understand the intricacies of human behavior and how we all interact with each other,” she says. “What I mainly deal with now is trauma and how soldiers and civilians can recognize some behaviors to attribute to a traumatic experience. The education I received [through Excelsior] helped me learn how to talk to people about things they don’t necessarily want to talk about.”

As for Acuña she’s now talking about settling into her current South Korean home. Her youngest daughter, Gianna, will soon join her; and she has designs on pursuing her doctorate, but isn’t certain on a concentration. For now, she appreciates the ongoing discovery her travels have afforded her, and can’t wait to see what the future holds.

“The journey has been awesome, and I wouldn’t change it for the world,” she says. “I’m living in a foreign country, now working with a demographic that I love working with.”

Tips for military spouses from Mercedes Acuña

 Put yourself out there

When you arrive in a new place, it can be tough to assimilate and adjust to your new locale. Acuña’s solution to accelerating this process? Dive right in. “It was mainly me putting myself out there, ready to volunteer or invest time in learning new skills sets,” she says. “You’re only somewhere for as long as your spouse is going to be there, and you have to find something about yourself to sell. It’s all about timing.”

 Don’t fear reinvention

At times, transferring from one locale to another means leaving a career—and possibly all the training that goes with it—behind. But education can be the great equalizer, and Acuña recommends military spouses shouldn’t be afraid to take their intelligence and, if necessary, head in another direction. “As a military spouse, we have to reinvent ourselves every time [we relocate]. If you continue on with your education, it will open doors.”

 Use your military resources

Wherever Acuña’s travels have taken her and her family, she’s been sure to use the resources—such as Army Community Service—available through her service affiliation. She directs others to do the same. “We advise military spouses to look for the opportunities and resources that are out there, and use them. There are a lot out there—but you have to put yourself out there to discover what you want.”

 Enjoy the journey

College courses. Juggling family and work. Moving from place to place. It can all be exhausting, but Acuña wouldn’t have it any other way. The life of a military spouse can be a trying endeavor, but it’s an exercise to be savored. “Enjoy the journey,” she says. “As military spouses, we sacrifice so much, so be sure to think about what you want to do in the end.”

 

Excelsior College Ranks No. 3 for Best for Vets Among Online and Nontraditional Colleges

Posted on by Excelsior Staff

Excelsior College was ranked No.3 in the Best for Vets: Colleges 2019 list of Online and Nontraditional Schools, as published by the Military Times. The rankings are based on the results of Military Times’ annual survey — a comprehensive school-by-school assessment of veteran and military student services and rates of academic achievement — as well as a detailed review of public data collected by federal agencies.

“Excelsior has proudly served our military and veteran communities for nearly 50 years, and we are honored to once again be recognized by Military Times for our ability to meet their unique educational needs,” said James N. Baldwin, EdD, president of Excelsior College. “Through flexible, affordable, and career-oriented academic programs and wide-ranging student-centric services and resources offered by our Center for Military and Veteran Education, we are uniquely positioned to assist former servicemembers achieve their educational and career goals. Their success remains the most significant measure of our success as an institution.”

Best for Vets: Colleges is an editorially independent, objective, and rigorous news project. This ranking evaluates the many factors that help make colleges and universities a good fit for servicemembers, military veterans, and their families. About 500 colleges took part in this year’s survey.

“Military Times’ Best for Vets designation is trusted throughout the veteran community as the mark of excellence for schools and other organizations that work with veterans, and military families. It can’t be bought with advertising dollars – unlike some other supposedly veteran-friendly rankings – only earned through a record of steadfast service and dedication to those who have served,” said George Altman, the Military Times editor in charge of the rankings. To see the full rankings, visit Rebootcamp or visit Best for Vets: Colleges 2019 Online and Nontraditional Schools.

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Media Contact: Alicia Jacobs, ajacobs@excelsior.edu  (518) 464-8531

ABOUT EXCELSIOR COLLEGE

Excelsior College (excelsior.edu) is a regionally accredited, nonprofit online college focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. The college contributes to the development of a diverse, educated, and career-ready society by valuing lifelong learning with an emphasis on serving individuals historically underrepresented in higher education. Founded in 1971, Excelsior meets students where they are – academically and geographically – removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity. Learn more at excelsior.edu.