Our mission at FTZ is to provide students with introduction level requirements and awareness to professional careers outside of a traditional educational environment.
Contact usBy: Chris The Graduate The first thing to learn months before college is that it takes a lot of preparation. As a student taking these steps, I have learned that there are several things to do and understand before the first day of classes. But no matter how much you prepare, there’s nothing you can do to stop college from being expensive. It’s already a hassle to narrow down the top schools. However, preparing for college doesn’t begin until you know which schools you want to attend. Although you might find these times stressful and frustrating, they are intended to enhance your college experience both during and after graduation. The first and most critical step I recommend for college is researching the colleges you want to attend. This is a place and environment you will see for the next two to four years especially if you live on campus. Look at the college’s academic and financial aid programs. Additionally, consider the college’s culture and atmosphere to ensure it is an appropriate fit for you. When I looked for the college I was interested in, I was excited about what they had to offer both academically and in extracurriculars. But unfortunately, they did not provide the major I wanted and the campus is overcrowded and overwhelming. So ultimately, I decided to go to another college that was more suited for me. I found a college that had the major I wanted, smaller class sizes, and a campus atmosphere that I felt more comfortable with. Another significant step is making sure all the documents you need are prepared to be accepted and correct for your college to accept you. Getting ready for college takes a lot of attention from you and your guardians. This includes gathering letters of recommendation, transcripts, standardized test scores, and other necessary documents. Make sure to plan and give yourself some time to review all your paperwork and revise corrections if needed. Submit your application as soon as you can to ensure acceptance. For example, it is recommended to submit your college application two months before the deadline date to give yourself enough time to review your documents and make any necessary revisions. A helpful thing to remember throughout the process is how your education will be paid for. College can be and will be expensive. Therefore, it is important to research the various scholarships and grants available to you to help make paying for college more affordable. It is also worthwhile to consider student loans and other forms of financial aid. Also consider the long-term costs of college, such as interest on loans and the potential for a lower salary due to tuition costs. Finally, it’s time to move in and you need to gather supplies and things for your dorm and classes in general. Make sure to budget accordingly and be aware of any additional fees that may be incurred. Don’t forget to research any scholarships or grants that may be available to help offset the cost of college. Finally, prepare for the college experience by talking to current students or alumni about their experiences. For example, you could research what supplies are necessary for the classes you are enrolled in, or ask current students what the best study methods are for a particular professor. College is meant to be a very life-changing experience. From meeting new people to finding a pathway that can take you down various paths and missions. But in the beginning, it takes a lot of planning and willpower to get the best of it. Try not to feel stressed and overwhelmed in these times and look at the end goal of this journey and all the experiences you will get to do while in college.
By: Chris The Graduate After completing high school, life as an adult has officially started. It’s time to make decisions about college, career, and the future. It’s also a time to start taking responsibility for one’s own life and decisions. It can be both exciting and overwhelming at the same time. Now as a graduate who just finished high school and is following the college path to receive a career, I still wonder what other pathways I could’ve taken other than college. There are many paths that don’t require college, such as starting a business, joining a trade school, or taking online classes. It is important to consider all of one’s options when making decisions about the future. But what if we took a deeper dive into these pathways and understood the fundamentals of these options as high school graduates? The most common pathway to take is going to college. This pathway, in my opinion, is very critical for thriving in a career. The college route provides the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills that are necessary for success in the modern workplace. For instance, college courses provide a foundation for communication, leadership, and problem-solving, all essential professional skills. Furthermore, the college also offers the chance to network with like-minded people and build relationships for future success. Finally, college can provide a solid foundation for a successful career. On the other hand, there are a few downsides to consider when it comes to the college route. First and foremost, college is expensive, and many students are unable to afford the rising costs of tuition. Also, the college experience is not for everyone, and some students may find themselves struggling to keep up with the pace of their courses. Finally, the job market is increasingly competitive, and many college graduates find themselves struggling to find employment after graduation. But with all this being said, college is still a great pathway and definitely worth the experience for whatever degree you aim to receive. Another common pathway after high school is the military. The military is a great way to go from serving your country in order to getting benefits and even getting your schooling paid for. Additionally, the military provides valuable job skills and experience that can be used in the civilian world. Many veterans use their military training and experience to find a job after their service, and the military offers many resources to help with this transition. For example, the GI Bill provides veterans with the opportunity to go to college and the Transition Assistance Program helps veterans adjust to civilian life by connecting them to job opportunities and helping them build their resumes. According to dol.gov, In 2022, there were 18.37 million veterans in the civilian non-institutional population 18 years and over. Of those veterans, 8.81 million were in the civilian labor force and 8.56 million were employed. On the other hand, the military can be stressful and demanding. There are a number of reasons why veterans may choose to leave the military, even though they may be employed. The military can be stressful and demanding, and veterans may want to return to a civilian lifestyle. Veterans may also want to pursue other opportunities that are not available in the military. While the military can provide many resources to help with the transition, there are also a number of reasons why veterans may decide to leave the military. Our last and final example is a trade school. A trade school is a type of vocational school that specializes in training for a specific trade, such as carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work. Trade schools provide students with hands-on training that prepares them for a career in their chosen field. Students learn the necessary skills to perform a job safely and efficiently, as well as the relevant laws and regulations for the industry. For instance, electricians learn about the National Electrical Code, which is a set of regulations specifying the standards for electrical wiring in the United States. From ngpf.org, In a survey, it was found that just under 16% of high school graduates enrolled in a vocational or trade school. Although vocational and trade schools offer many benefits to students, there are a few drawbacks. One potential drawback is the cost of tuition. Vocational and trade schools can be expensive, and not all students can afford to pay for tuition. Another potential drawback is that not all students are interested in the skills that are taught in vocational and trade schools. Some students may prefer to learn different skills, or they may not be interested in the subjects that are taught in vocational and trade schools. Overall, there are many pathways to take after high school in order to have a successful career. There are many options for more than just college. Students should research the different options that are available to them and find the one that best fits their interests and career goals. Vocational and trade schools are one of many options to consider. Ultimately, each student should make the best decision for themselves.
For many years, FAFSA has helped students afford college. Recently, it has made a massive difference in my ability to pay for college. I find the application very wordy and feel like so much information must be entered only to wait for a few numbers and information. Let’s be honest, there are many factors to consider when estimating the cost of schooling. Is anyone really interested in sitting down and filling out this nonsense? It can be tedious to answer these questions, even if you know the answers. However, the FAFSA application has recently taken a different approach. Will this affect the application process and will it improve it? The FAFSA is a way for students and parents to receive aid and grants for college. The new approach makes it easier to fill out the application by using IRS data to autofill sections. This makes the process quicker and more accurate. It is expected that more students will now be able to take advantage of the aid available. From experience, using FAFSA in the recent year, I feel this can be a great change. This can make it easier for parents to input information, especially for parents new to the process. And for those parents who are more experienced, they’ll be able to fill out their forms in record time! How does this new wave of FAFSA affect students? With this new system, students will have access to more financial aid opportunities, making college more accessible and affordable. Additionally, the time saved by the streamlined process can be used to focus on other aspects of college preparation. I also find the change in EFC to be an interesting concept. Originally, EFC stood for Expected Family Contribution. This lets users know how much money a family would have to go to college. Now after the change, this will be called the SAI. A student’s Student Aid Index indicates what types of federal aid they are likely to receive. For instance, if a student’s SAI is high, they are likely to be eligible for grants and subsidized loans, whereas a student with a low SAI would only be eligible for unsubsidized loans. Overall I believe the FAFSA change could help students and parents become more successful with financial aid for college. The change should also help reduce the stress and confusion of completing the FAFSA as the new system streamlines the process. This could lead to an increase in the number of students who access federal aid to help pay for college. By making the FAFSA system easier to use, it could prove to be an invaluable tool in helping students achieve their educational and financial goals. Of course, the real challenge will be getting students to actually fill out the FAFSA – but if they can figure out how to order pizza online, this should be a piece of cake!
Hi everyone, Chris the Graduate here. In recent times, I’ve been spending my days in the big leagues of college. Studying, attending classes, and even participating in social events. So far it’s been about a month since the beginning of this journey and I have come to realize many things so far. A lot of what I thought I was going to struggle with happens to be not complicated at all. But I’ve also seen things that I need to improve on in order to be a successful student. So come along and let’s review my first month as a freshman in college. Before classes started, I had a grace period where I got to settle into my new home for the next 4 years. At this moment it finally hit me. I was going to be on my own and from now on I will have to rely on myself for the most part. I had to figure things out and grow on my own in these times. Coming back down to earth I realized that I needed way more stuff than I needed and ended up getting more essentials that I needed for my dorm and school supplies. I then had to figure out how to organize my room so it would be livable. I sorted through my stuff and got rid of everything that was no longer useful. I organized the remaining items in a way that would make it easy for me to find what I needed. My goal for my dorm was to make it comfortable and be able to do work without distractions. After going through prepping my dorm it was time to get ready for classes. The first day of classes was on a Monday the 21st of August. But I thought it would be best to tour and see my class buildings, which were spread out across the entire campus. I also got to meet new people while touring. I got connected with some upperclassmen and asked them for advice and what to expect leading up to where they are. The first week of classes came and it was huge. Students walk to classes seeing everyone getting around. This is what I’ve been waiting for. This is what me and my parents’ goal was and now I’m here. Moving around campus took some getting used to. My first class was across from my dorm and took about 20 minutes and going to my class after took 10 minutes. Fortunately, my schedule wasn’t too busy with classes. The most classes I have in a day are 3 and they happen to be simple to the point classes. As a whole, everything continues to go up. College life is still a new experience for me. In my experience, it is hard to enter a part of your life and enter something new with little knowledge. Finding a group of people you can relate to and connecting with them can be extremely helpful. Don’t be afraid to experience life. It goes without saying that college is an important part of your life.
Less experienced workers who want to get a job will receive minimum wages.While this will not be the only pay you’ll earn while working; it’s just something to start off with. When you join a company and as an initial hire, your salary increases the more skills and knowledge you learn from working there. Companies also reward employees who show commitment and dedication to their work. As you improve and acquire new abilities, your wage increases. This can be due to promotions, bonuses, or a general wage increase. In some cases, there may even be career advancement opportunities. The minimum wage in the United States began in 1938 to level out the economy and give work to citizens after the severe depression. Since then, the minimum wage has been adjusted throughout the years to keep up with the inflation rate and the cost of living. Currently, the federal minimum wage in the United States is $7.25 per hour. The federal minimum wage increased to $7.25 per hour in 2009. This was the final step of a three-step increase passed in 2007 when the minimum wage was only $5.15. In this last step, about 4.5 million workers received a raise, providing an additional $1.6 billion annually in increased wages. For instance, the minimum wage increase in 2009 meant that a full-time worker working 40 hours a week, 52 weeks a year would see their annual salary increase from $10,712 to $14,500. However, inflation has taken a toll on Americans living in 2023. The price of groceries, rent, and gas has increased tremendously. This has put a strain on many households, especially those living paycheck-to-paycheck. As such, many Americans are struggling to make ends meet. This has forced employers to look for creative solutions to keep their employees afloat. And as for people working part-time and working minimum wage, it can be scary and frustrating trying to make ends meet. As a student who recently graduated high school, it is off-putting to see what type of job there will be and the wages they would provide once I graduate from college. Therefore, it is important for employers to consider the needs of their employees and provide adequate wages and benefits. Additionally, for those entering the job market, it is important to consider the job market and conduct research to ensure that one is adequately compensated for their labor. But what would be the overall efficient solution to a minimum wage increase? Ever since the minimum wage was introduced, it has increased over time. Can we expect an end to this increase?
By: Chris The Graduate Undoubtedly, AI has already taken a significant leap into our world. It is changing how we interact with technology, how businesses operate, and how we solve complex problems. AI is already used in many applications, from facial recognition to autonomous vehicles. AI will continue to revolutionize our lives in the future. There have been several careers in which AI has participated and has assisted with jobs in many areas of life. But in what specific ways has AI affected the world of employment in recent years, andhow might it impact them in the future? For the most part, artificial intelligence is currently used to automate long-term processes that are repetitive. This has freed up employees to focus on more creative and higher-level tasks. AI is also being used to augment decision-making processes, making it easier to identify trends and better assess risks. In the future, AI will continue to play an increasing role in the workplace. For instance, AI-based chatbots are already being used to automate customer service processes, allowing companies to respond to customer inquiries more quickly and efficiently. By automating mundane tasks, AI is paving the way for more meaningful and complex work, leading to improved productivity and efficiency. This will ensure that AI remains an essential part of the modern workplace in the future. But what does that mean for the future of jobs for humans? Currently, AI is responsible for the loss of 5% of jobs. As AI technology develops, this number is likely to increase. Adapting to a future in which humans and machines work together will require businesses to prepare for a transition. Their existing workforce must be retrained and upskilled to work with AI. Could this be a viable and plausible concept? Perhaps depending on your point of view. Artificial intelligence is inevitable in today’s world, whatever it may be.
For a company to run and make money successfully, there are certain things that they need to do so. To achieve this, you must spend the right amount of money on supplies and look for the proper support. It is also important to note that the location of a company is another factor that affects it. A good location can boost a business’s success rate, while a bad one can end up hurting it. Choosing the right location is critical for any business, as it can make or break it. But don’t forget, the quality of location is also judged by the number of nearby coffee shops. After all, coffee is the lifeblood of any business. But what is the purpose of business locations and areas being so significant? Most major companies, such as American Airlines, Chevron, and even Tesla have decided to move their headquarters. This is done to take advantage of lower taxes and other government incentives in certain areas. This helps the companies reduce costs and increase their profits. Additionally, these new locations often provide access to a larger talent pool and resources. But this is only an overview of the major companies and their state-of-the-art decisions. However, smaller companies and startups may not have the resources or the time to benefit from these incentives. Therefore, they may not benefit from these government offers. Not all companies are willing to move, as it can be complicated. For example, many companies have to consider the cost of relocation, the cost associated with researching and understanding regulations and taxes in the new area, and the cost of training employees. So, unfortunately, this plan isn’t possible for smaller companies. But how does this affect people and cities in other states? This opens up a new wave of employment opportunities for the area. It also creates a new source of revenue for the city, as taxes from the new businesses can be used to fund infrastructure and other public services. Additionally, it can revitalize cities that have been struggling economically, bringing in new businesses and jobs to the area. For instance, the city of Detroit, Michigan has seen a resurgence of economic growth due to businesses taking advantage of the new wave of employment opportunities in the area, leading to an increase in taxes that can be used to fund infrastructure and other public services. This influx of businesses has been made possible by a combination of tax breaks and incentives, as well as the availability of affordable real estate, which has allowed businesses to come in and invest in the area. Additionally, the new jobs created have provided a boost to the local economy, leading to further investment in the city.
Hello, my name is Christopher Robertson. I am also known as Chris The Graduate in blogs for the Functional Training Zone Website.
STEM Career pathways By: Chris The Graduate STEM careers are one type of career that continues to grow in importance as we as mankind move towards becoming more dependent on advanced technology. We rely on it more heavily in our daily lives. Studies in STEM are those that deal with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics as well as other related fields. STEM programs provide students with a wide range of career options, as there are over a hundred career opportunities. A number of successful STEM careers can be seen in the following list. Zoologist First and foremost, one of the most interesting STEM careers is a zoologist. A zoologist studies animals in their natural habitats and observes their behavior in their surrounding environment. The work this entails does not just take place in a lab, but also outside and all over the world. Zoologists need to understand the biology, behavior, and ecology of animals, and use this knowledge to help with conservation efforts and to better understand the impact of humans on animals and their habitats. Additionally, zoologists utilize a variety of tools and technologies to help them monitor and study animals in the wild. Zoologists can work in various settings, from research facilities to wildlife conservation organizations, zoos, and aquariums. They are also responsible for conducting research, collecting data, and writing and publishing reports related to their findings. As part of their studies, zoologists travel with animals to understand natural scenarios. They can even explore marine life and look for diversity in the seas as they search for variety. For instance, zoologists may accompany scientists on boats to observe sea creatures in their natural habitats and collect data about them. Computer Science A career in computer science involves not only studying computers on a higher level but also studying their hardware and software as well. Additionally, mathematical techniques are used to ensure maximum hardware security. Higher-level computer science involves understanding software such as coding, algorithms, and data structures. At a lower level, computer science includes understanding hardware such as processors, memory, and storage devices. Mathematical techniques are used to ensure hardware security and handle large data sets. Moreover, computer scientists are also responsible for configuring algorithms and analyzing data to ensure hardware security at all times. There is no limit to where one can work in this field if one has a Bachelor’s degree. This is no matter where they are located in the world. With the increasing demand for reliable hardware, computer scientists are in high demand to develop and maintain hardware that can handle large amounts of data. This requires a strong understanding of mathematical principles and algorithms to ensure hardware security. With a Bachelor’s degree in computer science, the opportunities to work in this field are virtually limitless, regardless of where someone is located. It is predicted that as countries continue to use technology, computer science will increase to keep up with technology and power. Civil Engineering The field of civil engineering is another example of a STEM career. Civil engineering is the branch of engineering that deals with the design, construction, and maintenance of public and private works. These include roads, bridges, canals, dams, and buildings. The workdays of civil engineers vary from the office to the construction site due to a lot of movement. For instance, civil engineers are required to inspect the construction site to ensure the safety of the workers and the building itself. Civil engineering is an important field as it helps to improve the infrastructure of a society, making it safer and more sustainable. For a successful career in this field, a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering Technologies is required. And to work on construction sites, depending on your state, certifications, and licenses are needed. Civil engineers need the right qualifications, technical knowledge, and experience to succeed in this field. Civil engineers also need excellent communication and problem-solving skills. Additionally, they should understand local building codes and regulations. Research Analyst Our final STEM career is as a research analyst. As a Research Analyst, also known as a Market Research Analyst, you study customer behavior, business conditions, and product or service sales. Analysts use this research to identify market trends and recommend how to capitalize on them. They often use data analysis, surveys, interviews, and other research techniques to gather the necessary information. For instance, a Research Analyst might conduct focus groups to measure customer satisfaction with a product or service, then analyze the data to make predictions and draw conclusions. This career’s work environment mostly revolves around Graphic Designers and artists creating study charts and solving sales problems. It is necessary to obtain a bachelor’s degree in order to pursue a career as a research analyst. Research analysts need to be proficient in data analysis and have a strong understanding of statistics and research methodology to succeed. They must also have excellent communication and presentation skills, as they are often responsible for presenting their findings to stakeholders. Additionally, a bachelor’s degree is generally required to become a Research Analyst, as it gives them the necessary skills and knowledge to carry out their duties. Sources: U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics
The Decline of Remote Work By: Chris The Graduate In the wake of the pandemic, jobs have shifted home. There has been an increase of 61 percent in remote workers over the past year, compared with the year before, in 2020. It has become increasingly common for businesses to have their employees work remotely as a result of safety concerns. There has been a shift in the workplace towards a more remote workforce, which has been a big change for companies and their employees alike, with many wondering if this will continue once the pandemic has been contained. With the shift to remote work, companies have been able to continue operating even during lockdowns, ensuring a continuous flow of work to customers. This has reduced the pandemic’s economic impact. The number of employees working from home has decreased as everything returns to normal. Many companies are switching to a hybrid model, with some employees working remotely and others in the office. This allows companies to reduce costs while providing employees with flexible work arrangements. As companies adjust to the updated normal, employers ask for employees’ return back to the workspace. Employers are also encouraging employees to come back by providing perks like work-from-home incentives and other benefits. Companies are also taking steps to ensure that the workspace is safe and secure for employees to return. However, for some companies, the switch back to the office is a slow and gradual process. Another factor contributing to the decline of remote jobs is the increased competition in the workforce. Companies can now access a wider pool of talent by hiring locally, making it harder for remote workers to stand out. Furthermore, remote workers often lack the in-person networking opportunities that an in-office job provides, which can be a major factor in career advancement. Overall, the decline of remote jobs is a concerning trend for the workforce. Companies must recognize the value of remote teams and invest in the resources necessary to make remote work successful. Additionally, remote workers must proactively develop and showcase their skills to remain competitive in the job market. With the right strategies and resources, remote work can still be a viable option for many in the workforce. But is this a benefit to work and careers? What issues and challenges could arise during these changes?