Planet College

Other places, Other lives

2012-01-29T16:00:00.000-08:00

Planet College has been dedicated to the expanding world of the student experience since its founding. Worldwide there are many, many students, probably like a gazillion, doing many, many, many different things. Studying many, many, many, many different subjects and developing each their own point of view.

One typical, but still distinctive and unique is here. An international student, a native of Malaysia, studying in London, traveling to Spain and studying among other things French. Typical or, well, typically untypical. The site, when we looked, detailed the delight students expressed when they found something for free and some in depth critical exploration of nail polish among many other reflections of this student's experience. The writer is not particularly impressed with herself and has a slight sense of detachment about her experiences. This is a point of view which is developed through experience on Planet College.

This site was found probably like you have found a lot of things on Planet College, just by browsing. You have probably learned a lot, a lot more than you have realized, just by being on Planet College and doing what you do. It might seem surprising but your daily thoughts, adventures, mis-adventures and experiences could be as interesting to a student, a student at a distance, as this student's experiences.

Traveling In Hostel Territory

2012-01-19T16:57:00.000-08:00

"Travel broadens the mind" and education and travel have been intertwined since probably day one. Part of the student traveling tradition is hosteling. Hostels are economical lodgings usually located in major cities around the world and always near universities. The quarters are simple clean and often dorm style so the whole set up is familiar to any one who has been on Planet College for a while. Right now, Winter, those hostels near skiing sites are probably pretty full. Those near summer associated recreation aren't. But if you are planning on traveling soon, either spring or summer, hosteling, if you haven't heard, can be a cool way to save money and enjoy the trip by meeting new people who, like yourself, are students.

In order to get reservations at some but not all hostels membership in an organization is usually required. These organizations and their membership requirements are all currently available on line. Searching 'hostel' will bring up quite a few.

Planet College brings this to your attention because now more than ever hanging on to your money is essential. Hostel traveling can help. So if you plan on travel soon look in to hosteling. And Bon Voyage from Planet College.

Tuition Gaurantee Plan.

2012-01-19T16:43:00.000-08:00

Regularly Planet College has observed that many news stories about higher education, college, and university life contain and often begin with the words, '"due to the ever increasing cost of tuition." For a while some colleges have offered for their students a tuition guarantee. That is the cost and fees that you are charged at the time of your original admission will apply for the term of your attendance at that school, usually up to four years. Here comes the "due to the ever increasing cost of tuition" part. Due to the ever increasing cost of tuition (see we told ya') many schools are now adopting some form of this same guarantee. The continuing rise of charges by colleges, these schools have observed, have discouraged many potential students from even applying to college. Who wants to sign up for something which is practically guaranteed to increase in cost year by year?
Now that tuition guarantees are becoming more widely spread perhaps it is being applied at your school. You won't know until you ask. So, go find out. Even if your tuition has been raised since your admission perhaps your school may lower your current cost to those which were applied during your first year. Never hurts to ask.

Your Mirror of Erised.

2011-12-28T15:57:00.000-08:00

Endings often prompt reflections and memories. Endings also fortell beginnings. This time on the calendar contains a classic time-honored ending as recognized by New Years Eve. All prepratory to the beginning of another year, honored by New Years Day.

Some time back you may have followed the story of Harry Potter. Harry has been kind of hard to avoid him being all over the place for the last ten or fifteen years. The story's devotees can continue to site, quote, relate, and re-tell their favorite or most memorable events, incidents and characters from the wizard-in-training's progress.

Planet College recognizes one potentially useful tool from Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, The Mirror of Erised. Those with a penchant for word games and such quickly recognized "erised" as "desire" spelled backwards, a mirror of desire . Those who gazed into The Mirror of Erised saw what they desired for themselves. Harry saw his parents who had been killed. Other characters saw what they most desired in this clever object in this entertaining tale.

Planet College brings this Mirror to your attention to point out that you to have such a device. It is most probably in your bathroom. That mirror, right there can become your own Mirror of Erised. Right now, at this time of ending and beginning take time to look into your own mirror. Then ask, "Am I becoming what I desire?" Only you can answer, only you will know. Well, are you?

Have an interesting and productive 2012.

End Of The Year So Let's Talk About Those Loans And That Business You Were Going To Start After You Got Your Degree Except Now - Well Just Read This.

2011-12-21T14:52:00.000-08:00

Here's One for the end of the calendar year. Loan help. This is from the Small Business Administration's web site. The Small Business administration is a federal agency which is dedicated to helping - and I bet you saw this coming - small business. Below is part of what they said about you starting your own business. IBR means income based repayment. It's for students who have a large loan obligation and a small income. That means just about every one and certainly you. You can read more about it here.

Student Startup Plan

Is student loan debt stopping you from starting your own business? The Income-Based Repayment (IBR) Plan can help.

Income-Based Repayment is an existing payment option for Federal student loans. The Income-Based Repayment Plan supports young college grads, including those looking to start a business, join a startup, or work in a public service job by making Federal student loan repayment manageable. It can help you keep your loan payments affordable by using a sliding scale to determine how much you can afford to pay on your Federal loans—empowering you to take risks with new opportunities.

Re-do the Math.

2011-12-17T13:53:00.000-08:00

Many, many students on Planet College come to campus fully equipped with extreme math phobia. " I will do anything to get out of taking a math class." they say. Unfortunately, for most programs on most campuses math is some where along the way required. Thus, conflict. But this conflict need not become a crisis.

The initial fear of math probably came from the traditional way most students are educated. The USA has had the policy for more than a century and a half of educating everyone. This involves classrooms filled with students learning or trying to learn the subjects which are presented. But not everyone learns at the same rate. Mathematical ineptitude which leads to math phobia is usually the result of a students inability to absorb and perform at the expected rate. That means you took a long time to do arithmetic. However, there was not a long time to do arithmetic so you didn't get very far. Thus you became 'bad' at math. Bad because you were 'slow' at math.

Now, on Planet College there may be solutions to your dilemma. Most campuses offer help to their learning 'challenged' students. If you are a student who characterizes your self as 'bad' at math find help. There is some. Math departments have tutors, so do campus learning centers. Some schools have programs including alternate courses for the 'math challenged.'

If you are on Planet College you are here to learn. One thing students often need to learn is to ask for help. So, do so. Find the tutor, find the program, ask for extra time to do the tests in your required math class. It is time to change your attitude and re-do the math.

The High Cost of Hip.

2011-11-18T15:49:00.000-08:00

Nate e-mailed Planet College about his latest frustration. Among other things he says;

My latest frustration, and perhaps my motivation for writing this, is the growing movement amongst my friends to drink “good” beer. It goes against everything the first few years of college taught me. I’ve drank all the crap beer in large quantities, spent under four dollars for twelve packs (Hobbs-don’t drink it- It’s not worth it), and even developed a legitimate fondness for Keystone Light. Until now, I was doing what I was supposed to: getting hammered on 30-packs you could buy with a twenty and still have enough for a Deli News pizza.

Now, a single bottle of “good” beer costs 8 bucks and that’s what real men are supposed to drink. That’s an hour’s work for this grocery bagger.

Nate continued in a good natured and humorous style about how he now feels left out of conversations with his friends since on his weekly wage he can not savor the 'aromatic hops' really good beers should have.

Planet College thanks Nate for pointing out what often happens in the social circles of college. Upper class men, Planet College veterans, not wishing to appear as 'un-hip' as freshmen refine their taste. And this refinement cost money. Plenty of money.

The company of classmates you've been partying with for many semesters is desirable and comforting. When they change, or their taste change, or their spending habits change it can be decision time. Continuing to drink Keystone while every one else is jovially swigging Red Witch, or Ol' Dity Bastard may call for a decision.

Planet College has no advice only the observation that, as Nate has pointed out, college offers opportunities for many different types of decisions. Ultimately, they had been summed up by a fictional college student on leave to attend his father's funeral. Hamlet, or his creator William Shakespeare, said it very well, "To be or not to be." This applies to hip, trendy or cool, and ultimately it says, "Can you afford to be or not to be." As always it is up to you.

Deferred Pay

2011-11-06T17:33:00.000-08:00

The increasing difficulty of finding any kind of employment sometimes leads students on Planet College to consider other sources of finance. Some which have begun appearing with increasing regularity are offers of work for 'deferred pay". This means that you will work now and possibly be paid later. Possibly.

Money is hard to get and even harder to keep. The possibility of additional finances even working now for some money later is alluring.

But if your time energy and talent are worth anything at all they are worth being paid, paid real money, in a timely fashion, a lot closer to Now than Later.

Deferred pay, often contingent upon some payment to the concern that 'hires' you, is not a promising source of funds. Not promising at all.

No matter how 'lean' things are, and right now that is pretty lean, deferred pay will put no money in your pocket now and possibly none ever.

Those ads for 'deferred pay" ? Skip 'em.

Inter Session Winter Session or what ever it is called.

2011-10-26T10:53:00.000-07:00

The usual holiday rush is almost upon Planet College. Almost, but not quite. Right now could be a good time to consider, if you haven't already, a Winter Session course.

The guidelines are simple.

Is there an available course which will help me graduate?

Will I be on or near campus, close enough to attend regularly?

How much will it cost and how can I pay for it?

When is the deadline for application?

Review these few simple considerations, basically your regular term considerations only concentrated, could lead to another step, however small, to graduation. And graduation is why you are on Planet College.

Check out the Inter Session, Winter Session or what ever it is called Schedule now.

Dumped or The Game of Hearts

2011-10-03T19:01:00.000-07:00

Of all the games students down through the history of Planet College have played, such as Monopoly, World of WarCraft, Tequila Twister and 3D Scrabble none is more persistent than Hearts. Not the card game Hearts, although that is popular, the real life one, the one played on the Big Board of Real Life. In the Real Life Game of Hearts Dumped is the looser.

If you have played Hearts For Real on the Big Board and you have been dumped then you know that there is never a good time to be dumped. Dumped always happens at the absolutely, positively worst time.

What can a student do when they have been dumped? "Sorting through your options" sounds like one of those things therapists say. Most dumpees thoughts are not nearly so elegant if it is possible to think at all. Frequently the best option is to continue to march. That is to follow through as far as possible on what ever your regular routine has been. Naturally, if your regular routine has included a significant amount of time with the person who has dumped you, well, then, it is time for a new regular routine.

Dumped happens and the effect is unavoidable. Usual symptoms include at least some depressive reactions followed by some demonstrable excess. Depressive reactions included sleeping 24/7 and a significant drop in basic hygiene practices. Excesses include increased consumption of alcohol, ice cream and frequent sex with total strangers. These excesses are predictable and nearly unavoidable.

But when does excess become excessive? Well, if you become a very smelly 300 pound Reese's Peanut Butter Cup munching hermit who solicits strangers at the bus station while the rest of your class is planning their five year re-union you may be taking the whole thing a little too hard.

If you haven't then there is hope. Returning with some enthusiasm to as much of your regular schedule as possible can prove beneficial in the long run. As The Wiz says, "Just keep stepppin', don't you loose no ground, C'mon, Eeeeeeeaaaasssssseeeee on down the road."

Had A Crazy Fight With The Manager

2011-10-03T15:07:00.000-07:00

Amanda, who graduated with a degree in Business, now manages for a national lingerie retailer, the same store she worked in part-time as a student. In her current position she regularly interviews and hires CSRs, customer service representatives, for her store. A while back as she was reviewing a stack of applications for her chain's seasonal hiring she came across a curious notation. In the space designated for applicants to explain why they no longer worked for a previous employer, one applicant had written, "Had a crazy fight with the manager." Intrigued, Amanda called the applicant, a female student, for an interview along with several other candidates. During the interview Amanda found the applicant, who we will call Nikki, to be experienced, friendly and talky, very talky. When Amanda asked about the 'crazy fight' the job seeker responded, "Oh that is history and I am so totally over that." Amanda decided to give Nikki a try and hired her as temporary part-time help in the store's youth fashion section. Nikki's energetic personality and her tendency to talk ( and talk and talk) proved a perfect fit as she related well to the younger buyers the chain was trying to entice. Nikki has proven to be a worthwhile employee although Amanda does keep an eye on her.

What can a student learn from this? Well, first of all it, is probably not necessary to include potentially troubling details on any job application. While past experience is useful for a potential employer to know,( it can help them place you appropriately), you need to strike a balance between candor and discretion. When asked why you left a certain job "Scheduling conflict" will usually suffice. Although for this student a surprising statement at least got her an interview, for you, when filling out an application skip the "crazy fight" history. Give enough details to supply the potential employer with a general idea of your duties. Unless you are being hired as Director of a National Security Agency do not include derogatory information about yourself. In the case of a National Security Agency they probably already know.

The Lockstuffers.

2011-09-21T17:44:00.000-07:00

It is done all over, lock stuffing. You've seen it, maybe even done it. Jamming a wadded up paper towel into the latch of a residence hall entryway or suite door or room to make coming and going easier. Easier than messing with that dumb card key which half the time you forgot anyway. That is if you are a lock stuffer. In some buildings it is all over but others not at all. Often depends on the RA. Some buildings the convention is the place is totally stuffed Friday pm for the party weekend. Then late Sunday or early Monday campus security does a walk through and unstuffs all the stuffed locks, back to a normal week.

Are you your buildings designated lockstuffer? Or are you the student who seriously has second thoughts about the whole deal?

Lockstuffing, along with underage drinking and flaming sofas falling past your dorm room window is a mainstay of the student experience on Planet College. Your feelings about it may not matter in your current environment. But if you are having serious second thoughts about lock stuffing or the general atmosphere in your building it is probably wise to talk to some one about this.

Locks are made for security. To limit accessibility to only designated people. Students often store several thousand dollars worth of possessions in their rooms. Easy access can mean easy theft, some times on a very large scale.

The subject of campus security is now a priority in higher education, it should be. Large populations of young people gathered for a specific purpose can be a target for intentionally criminal behavior. Not everyone who looks like a student is a student.

Locks serve as a general line of primary security. Yes, defeating them is easy. But that is not the point. You are paying a great deal for among other things your own security. While it may seem 'lame' to complain about or even mention lock stuffing to the RA or the housing office, it is your safety. Better to seem 'lame' than come back from a weekend and find most of your stuff has disappeared.

The Mid-Term Is Coming And Presentations Will Be Due

2011-09-17T13:44:00.000-07:00

Experienced instructors on Planet College wisely use the resources of their students to further the instruction of the class. One classic method is class projects. That is some time during the course of the term each student is required to make an in class presentation about one aspect of the course. These presentations are usually scheduled to begin somewhere around the middle of the term. This is because the class first has to get a general grounding in the subject before a student can present an appropriately researched topic.

Depending on the course subject, students are assigned or else choose one particular area to expand and explain. If for example, the course is American History, The Civil War, a student may be assigned one battle or one personality such as a general to explore for the class. If the course is Gerontology, Powers of Attorney or Public Accommodations for the Aging may be assigned among many others. Geology students may be required to report on the results of a field trip. The possibilities are endless.

If this is all new to you here is a Planet College tip. Along with the topic which you may be assigned or may choose you may also be required to choose a date for your presentation. If you can choose a date for your presentation choose one around the early middle of the presentations.

The reasoning behind this is simple.

If you choose a time too soon it wont give you enough time to prepare. Mid-term is the time when a student suddenly seems to have a lot due including preparing for mid-term tests. If you choose a late presentation time the temptation is to put it off. Procrastination is insidious and any sign of "Oh I can do it later." must be addressed promptly. Scheduling your presentation early in the middle of the available dates gives you enough time to prepare but also enough pressure to make sure you will actually do it.

Make That Payment, IBR

2011-09-15T16:24:00.000-07:00

Recent statistics from a group which monitors student debt have shown that more former students are defaulting on their now due loans. They fail to make payments. Failing to make any loan payments affects an adult's financial life for quite some time. The consequences are almost uniformly negative.

When a student agreed to accept a loan he or she also agreed to return the money, almost always with interest, in the form of payments, usually on a monthly basis. Lately some graduates faced with what appears to be a mountain of debt and their meager monthly earnings from that 'great' job they got after graduation have chosen to forego these payments.

If you are a former student and you managed to remain awake during the exit interview the last semester before you graduated you probably heard a lengthy explanation of your obligations regarding any student loans you have outstanding. During that presentation the presentor emphasized that you really did have to pay that money back no matter what.

Faced with virtual plague of non-payment lenders are devising methods to allow students to address their obligations practically. One method is called Income Based Repayment, IBR.
This method is exactly as it says; your schedule of payments is based on your income. Just that simple.

If you are currently stuck along with so many others in a low income or no income situation it is prudent for you to now look at your loan situation. If you haven't been making scheduled payments you may be in danger of or already in default. This situation can be remedied but first it must be addressed.

Your lender or lenders no doubt have on-line sites as well as eight hundred numbers. Promptly contacting them to discuss your status can do much to ease troubles down the road. During this discussion ask if they provide IBR, income based repayment. This program may be the means for you to remain in somewhat healthy financial status while you sort out your position.

IBR, call and ask. Might help.

The Devil In The Details

2011-08-25T09:36:00.000-07:00

Phrases become cliches in popular usage because they express some essential fact or situation concisely. "The devil is in the details" is a popular term which may be another way to say, "Always read the fine print."

When Josh, a film major, returned to campus this term he was surprised to learn he had a balance due, which meant he owed money, on his campus account. Early last spring Josh had completed his financial aid application as well as his registration for Fall and thought no more about it. One of the courses Josh enrolled in was an on-line course. It was offered through the department in which Josh was majoring and would be three upper division units. Josh figured with everything on line he could complete the course work on his own schedule. This could leave more time for other things like work, friends, well, other things.

Thoroughly confused and more than a little annoyed, Josh went to the Student Accounts office where he learned a large portion of his financial aid had been cancelled. After a fit of frenzied diligence Josh learned the on-line course he had enrolled in was not eligible for financial aid. Because this was an ineligible course Josh's financial aid dropped below the minimum units for full time aid.

What were Josh's choices right now? More important what would yours be. Get more time at work to start paying on the balance due? Do a late add on an eligible course? Call the Bank of Mom and Dad for another emergency loan?

The wisdom of hindsight points out that this situation could have been avoided had Josh read the fine print in his school's annual catalogue. Somewhere in there in fine print it says "Not all on-line courses" are eligible for financial aid. The on-line course Josh had signed up for was one of those ineligible courses.

If you, like Josh, did not or do not read or don't even know your school has a course catalogue then here is today's Planet College Headline. Your school does have a course catalogue. The catalogue contains the guidelines, requirements and essential information you need to know about courses, registration, eligibility and graduation. There is a lot of fine print and it reads like a legal document because it is a legal document. There are probably still some paper ones around the admin building but if you ask the librarian she can help you find it on line. It is there. It contains the rules and at some point you will need to know them. Not knowing can cost you. The cliche is a cliche because it is accurate. Don't be 'deviled' by the details.

Oh and Josh? He found a Professor he knows in his department who signed him up for three units of Special Studies and his financial aid was restored.

Welcome back, and good luck this term from Planet College.

Your Next Audition

2011-08-21T12:55:00.000-07:00

The expanding horizon of opportunities Planet College presents offers classes, courses, lectures, people and events which stimulate your own development.

One such opportunity might be available through your school's Theater, Speech or Speech and Drama Department. Majors in these departments regularly practice preparing and presenting themselves for public performances. The preparation which goes into any such presentation could also be useful for your next interview so consider this.

As explained in the post of August 12 employers can now be very picky about waiting for the right candidate for any opening they have. In a sense an employer is 'auditioning' a candidate for this job. It thus make sense that job seekers who have had some experience presenting them selves, either on stage or giving a speech, have at least a slight advantage in an interview.

With this in mind it might be helpful to consider a course in your schools Speech, Drama or Theater Department. Lower division or introductory courses are commonly open to all enrolled students. If your schedule is full this term consider a course like this for next semester.

If you are unsure of the value of such a course try this. Schools often allow a student to audit courses. In this case it wouldn't be a full audit for the term. Simply find a likely course in the schedule and then track down the instructor. Ask her if you can 'audit' , that is sit in, for one or two sessions. If she agrees one or two sessions should be enough to give you a general sense of the course content, requirements and whether it could be helpful for you.

And remember the way the job market is you need all the help you can get. (Couldn't hurt your social life either.)

Grad School Grad Rates.

2011-08-20T11:09:00.000-07:00

If this coming school year pretty much figures to be your last, finally, you may be thinking in terms of a graduate program, Grad School.

Finding your way through the survival course that has been your time on Planet College may have strengthened your confidence in your abilities as a student. You are far from freshman confusion and sophomore bravado and now have a realistic basis to judge your abilities as a student.

If your college experience has prompted you to now consider graduate school there is one basic statistic you are well advised to research. That statistic is the graduation rate of the students admitted to any graduate program you may be considering. Graduate programs commonly admit more students than eventually graduate from the program. The components of this attrition aren't far different from the factors that have caused undergraduates, some you probably know, to leave school. Cost of attendance, inability to adjust to the demands of college, and even simply the need to get to work also influence graduate students. Same simple effect applies, fewer students graduate than are admitted.

You now know all it took to get admitted to your current school. These same procedures will definitely apply to a graduate school admission. Once again it is smart to visit the campus where the program you are considering is presented. Make time, do that and while you are there be sure and check with the program administrator or co-ordinator or who ever you can find who knows. Ask how many student's are admitted and ask how many usually graduate. It's important.

Jobhunter's Special.

2011-08-12T19:34:00.000-07:00

A friend of Planet College who operates her own educational placement service responded to our inquiry for help in the job market with the following e-mail about the current climate for job hunters.

And remember you, if you aren't now, will soon be a job hunter.

Hey William,

I might be able to be of more help if you decide to look outside your usual world for employment.
If you do I can think of a few general things that you might not have
considered.

One thing I can say, all around, is that things are getting more ccompetitive. Anything you can do to show you are actively involved with the field and are looking for ways to expand your skill set is a great thing. I can see how my own hiring practice has changed. Some of our employees that I hired 5 years ago would not even get an interview today.

On the flip side, I can also say that having a PhD can work against you these days. I think having an MA is actually perfect. Employers love MAs (myself included), because they can often do the work of a PhD for a lower price :-) PhD's are often just too expensive in today's tight market with
shrinking profits.

The other thing to be aware of this that right now many employers are looking for the absolute perfect candidate. What this means is that often times the employer may actually like you, but still not give you a job, because you are not perfect for the opening they have. I know am not the only employer who thinks like a casting director. With this you can know that a significant percentage of the time you don't get the job, it has nothing to do with you, and everything to do with the job opening, and the fact that employers are being super picky these days because they can.

As a result, one of the keys to success right now, is playing a numbers game. If you keep putting yourself out there, sooner or later you will be the right person for the part, and you will get the job. This is true now more than ever.

The other piece of it is attitude (I am sure you KNOW THIS!). Do your very best to keep a positive attitude in front of the employer. Ten minutes ago I just ended a job interview with an applicant because I could tell she was depressed. She kept saying how she had been out of work for 10 months. The first thing I imagine when an applicant says this to ME, IN AN INTERVIEW, is that he or she will say this to one of our clients. You can imagine this is the last thing I would want any instructor to say to any of our clients. My job is to provide solutions, not create them, by sending out troubled candidates.

The final piece is preparation. Study up on potential job interview questions. Many times I don't hire applicants because they cannot answer the questions I ask. Make sure to be ready for the tough ones like "Where could you improve?" and "Why should we hire you over someone else?" Also because employers are thinking like casting directors, you may need to answer very specific, very detailed questions about your experience. Be ready for this.

Maybe you know all this already, but I do hope it helps. I

Hope you find work soon!

This is an accurate comprehensive view of the marketplace for job candidates with degrees.

This letter could function as encouragement for students finding it hard to stay focused in school. Your diploma is a very important step to your earnings for the rest of your life. Stick with it.

Legally Speaking

2011-08-04T11:59:00.000-07:00

As most law students could report the world of legal proceedings is a separate reality even more arcane and potentially confusing than the basic alternate reality we know as Planet College. While law students are working diligently to absorb and conquer the language, customs and procedures of The Legal World most average students could find this world intimidating to say the least.

Fortunately most Planet College regulars have little or nothing to do with The Legal World. Well, almost nothing. A careful look at much of your higher education will reveal that it is defined by legal obligations. These are spelled out in your annual registration packet, residence hall license and financial aid award letter. These documents provide protection for both you and your university.

But your legal involvement may not end there. Occasionally students become involved in legal proceedings not quite outside of, but, on the edge of the college environment. You may be all too familiar with some of these occasions. The most common student involved legal proceedings outside of parking tickets are substance use related or landlord/tenant matters, (as they are referred to in the legal world).

In either case or in any case if you are involved in any type of legal proceedings whatsoever it is wise, very, very wise to get help.

Legal assistance is not often available on campus but there may be some form of help in your town. One resource, The Legal Aid Society, provides legal services to individuals. Usually there are some basic requirements such as income and a phone call to this organization can establish your eligibility.

Some law schools also operate clinics, usually staffed by students who are supervised by professionals. The clinics often charge little or no fee for a consultation.

What ever the legal matter there is somewhere close some type of help for you. The Law takes itself very seriously and expects you to do the same. For this you will probably need help.

A Planet College word of caution. Students are acclimated to getting practically every type of help, information or assistance electronically. Legally, this type of assistance may qualify as 'opinion.' This type of opinion may be useful for discounts on movie tickets but it is not reliable 'legal aid'. The most reliable aid you may need legally is always gained in person, face-to-face, one-on-one, with a qualified professional.

Liberal Arts, Liberal Studies, Liberal Thinking.

2011-07-23T11:56:00.000-07:00

Across the social spectrum "liberal" is a term with a variety of connotations. Politically liberal designates a particular set of behaviors and their implied values. Culturally liberal implies loose, generous or easy going. Liberal often packs a significant emotional impact depending on your point of view.

Educationally "liberal" has been used to indicate broad-based or wide ranging. This has evolved from the early established colleges of the eighteen hundreds. When the United States decided to provide an education for every citizen the need for teachers was recognized. Therefore colleges were established to train teachers for the public school system. Initially these colleges were referred to as "Normal" schools but as time passed they were increasingly referred to as Liberal Arts colleges. This designation, "liberal", was meant to show that the students were receiving a wide ranging education. A wide ranging education was deemed necessary for school teachers because of the wide variety of questions they would potentially be asked by their young students.

If you've spent any time with children you know how inquisitive and demanding they can be. A teacher had better be prepared to answer and explain their answer right now. A liberal education was intended to prepare young teachers for this.

As colleges widened their curriculum to prepare students for other careers additional majors were developed. Within the past few decades specific majors have gained popularity. Career minded students have chosen IT or Accounting for Business among many others to help launch their life after Planet College. Employers were thought to respond favorably to the skills such specific degrees required.

So what happened to Liberal Arts? Well it is still in the catalogue and it isn't limited to students who are intending to become teachers. With the current hiring climate as volatile as it is employers are now looking favorably on a Liberal Arts degree. A wide ranging base of schooling indicates a potential employee has a knack for flexibility. Given the rapidly changing nature of even the most basic business practices this flexibility could be a very desirable trait.

So, if you are still undeclared or stuck in your major and thinking of a change consider Liberal Studies. If it is available it might be a way to a degree and a job soon. Give it some thought.

Zs Get Degrees, Or Do They?

2011-07-20T12:42:00.000-07:00

Learning while you sleep is an appealing sounding method to acquire Knowledge. Various programs available offer 'sleep learning' usually meaning tapes. These recordings play while the learner sleeps and those available advertise results, sometimes described as 'amazing'. Customers they say have mastered subjects while sleeping and this mastery has assisted them passing difficult courses. One discussion of this subject declared," Z's get degrees." There was no indication whether the students took the test while sleeping.

Looking around any of your a early a.m. classes you will observe many students earnestly practicing another form of sleep-learning. Are these students sleeping? Definitely. Are these students learning? Possibly. Their grade will tell.

Only you can tell the best methods for you to acquire and retain the information necessary to pass any given course. If sleeping helps, well, sleep. What is more likely, though, is the need for you to bring your full attention to any subject you are attempting to master or at least pass. It is also likely that you need to be awake while doing so. Zs may help a student occasionally pass a class. Degrees are obtained through persistence, diligence and an organized approach to studying. And all of this means work. The lure of 'sleep learning' is the implied effortlessness which is in fact very appealing. But, most veterans on Planet College learn nothing worthwhile is achieved without effort.

Ok, now, go take a nap.

You Are Your Resume Part Three

2011-06-29T16:09:00.000-07:00

Sorting through the pre-interview process, that is resume distribution and application submittal can be tedious, even irritating, but it is the only way to get through to the next big and critical step in your burgeoning work career, the interview.

Your interview may be causal or formal, it may involve one person or a small committee but the one main component it definitely involves is you. From the posts above you have determined it is important for you to provide accurate information during the various stages leading to the interview.

Now you are representing yourself, in person, and this is the part where You really are Your Resume. The person or people who are interviewing may have questions about you, your attitude, your background and your experience. You should be prepared to present yourself clearly and concisely. Typically the questioning will involve information you have provided which is why it is extremely important that you have supplied accurate information. Don't fib, exaggerate (much) or lie. Those who hire understand you are anxious. But even a hint of dishonesty seriously clouds your desirability as an employee. When the interview has concluded, thank him, her or them and leave.

Here is the super secret, inside scoop, now-it-can-be-told, Planet College exclusive about your interview. What this committee was looking for and will be discussing after you leave is this; "Of the otherwise eligible candidates we have interviewed who, which one, could we actually stand to work with all day?"

That's it. Seriously. You are inexperienced. They know it. You have a lot to offer. They know it. You have a lot to learn. They know it. They could hire any one of dozens of applicants. They know this, too. So. What they really, really consider, all other things being equal, is whether or not your potential co-workers could get through an average work day with you without any further problems than their job already has.

That is it. Finally. As far as you are your resume. Be the person other people could stand to spend an average workday with.

You Are Your Resume, Part Two

2011-06-29T15:38:00.000-07:00

If you have been getting no calls and seriously distributing resumes the post above is a good place to start. If now your resume has reliable information then read on. This part might be called Your Resume Is Not An Application.

Because there are a variety of procedures, depending on the industry and particular company, which involve filling in forms and supplying information both before and after hiring, this post will deal with the simplest before hiring procedure.

For most businesses, no matter what size, some standard has been used to organize hiring. This standard is almost always an application. You may have filled out several in your work life. Whether at a computer terminal or at a desk with a pen they ask for information, sometimes extensive information about you. This is information which is probably not on your resume. Social Security number, names, addresses and phone numbers for previous employers as well as additional information for references. (If this information is on your resume remove it. Resumes are not applications and should not include extensive personal information.)

Some applicants assume that attaching a resume to an application after having filled in their name is sufficient for the process. It isn't. If you have been handed an application fill it out as completely as possible. Even if this application essentially duplicates information you have on your resume fill it out anyway.There is a purpose for this beyond what you can imagine. (For example, it could be a useful preliminary test to see if you can follow directions.)

If you have not been called for an interview but are simply applying, the information you have provided will be forwarded to the appropriate department, usually known as Human Resources, and often called "HR".

If you have been called for an interview based on your resume or resume and application, these documents will be forwarded to the interviewer or interviewers, with whom you will be speaking shortly.

And this leads to You Are Your Resume, Part Three.

You Are Your Resume. Part One

2011-06-29T15:00:00.000-07:00

If you are new to the serious job market you may be some confusion about basics. Basics like resumes, applications and interviews , what they mean and how they apply.
Whether or not you've heard the term or even think you know what it means. A resume is a brief summary of your work or experience as it applies to the position you are seeking. A prevailing standard now in the big workplace called Planet Earth says keep it brief. There are two reasons for this. First the person who is reading it is busy. Second, if you have yet to reach the quarter century mark on Planet Earth you don't have that much experience. At least not the kind that directly applies to any position you may be seeking. So including every paying situation you've had since you started at the drive-up window of WackyTaco may not be necessary.
Keep it simple. Not too artsy. Not too flashy. Simple, plain and clear.
But.
There is one bit of information which is absolutely critical. Your current contact information.
This means that resumes which you are now submitting must contain your current phone number, probably your cell phone.
Whether your resume is electronic or paper, posted on your WebFace page or hand delivered by a uniformed courier, lack of reliable current contact information is one sure way to early elimination from the hiring process.
So, go check right now. Do the resumes you are distributing right now contain the number of the cell phone you are using right now?
If not make that change promptly.

Physics For Future Presidents

2011-06-15T20:27:00.000-07:00

On Planet College most students have learned to concentrate on courses which will lead to their degree.
Once a student finds a major their focus must necessarily be on completing the requirements as promptly as possible. This goal dictates their term schedules.

Undergraduates who are still in lower division or have not found a major have a somewhat wider base of choices for courses and this can be advantageous. Many students on Planet College who do not feel mathematically inclined shy away from any course which suggest a mathematical component.
Universitys attempt to ease these students' anxiety by offering 'survey' courses.

These survey courses do just that. They cover the subject generally offering the students an overview. These types of courses can enrich a student's education without requiring the time commitment difficult, at least for some, science course requires. One such course is offered on one of the UC campuses. At the University of California Berkeley a student can enroll in Physics 110, a survey course titled, Physics for Future Presidents.

The intriguing title tells students here is a course meant for leaders. Most students value being regarded capably and the University acknowledges this in the courses title.

If your schedule is not yet set for next term possibly you might peruse the catalog or class schedule and find a horizon widening course such as this. It could be a welcome addition to your schedule, a refreshing glimpse outside your usual boundarys. Expanding your world view in this manner is a large part of the purpose of your experience on Planet College.

The Sands of Summer and The Sands of Time.

2011-06-02T14:07:00.000-07:00

Planet College wide and culture wide the summer months, June, July and August have a vacation atmosphere. The general attitude is these months are a little more kick-back, a little more of a 'time out' feel. Students who are accumulating time and experience on Planet College aren't long seduced by this illusion. Which is what it is for a person whose time is as valuable as yours, an illusion.

For some lolling on beaches enjoying the sands of summer and the parties of summer nights is a rewarding and even necessary time out. For career focused students the sands are running through the big hour glass of their lives all the same.

Now, summer has become time to add hours at work or get another, additional job. This can reduce or possibly eliminate the need for loans this coming term.

Some students take advantage of summer courses offered either at their main campus or some campus closer to home. Making sure this course or these courses ultimately hasten their graduation date is basic wisdom, the kind earned through experience.

Experience shows no matter how you use your time it is still your time you are using. It is only in the hour glass that the sands of time replenish themselves. On Planet College and on Earth a day gone is a day gone for good.

This summer, your summer, will only happen once. When it is done how much closer will you be to graduation?

Big Shout Out To Grandma

2011-05-02T12:37:00.000-07:00

Back on Planet Earth families take all manner of configurations; traditional, blended, single parent and others. One ongoing figure in most families, no matter what configuration, is grandma. Known by dozens of names and nicknames, grandmothers have often been the heart and soul of most families since there were families. Currently grandmothers have taken on many varied identities from old country still- can't -speak- more- than- three -words- of -English to one of the Areas Great Real Estate Professionals, the kind who tweets and drives an Audi.
Which is or are yours?
Doesn't matter really. This week features a holiday focusing on mothers. Ok, maybe. Some moms would seriously simply like to be left alone for just one day. But they wont tell you that.
Not grandmas. They love that stuff.
So this week no matter what your particular family situation give grandma a shout. There will never be any one like her.

The Only A You'll Ever Really Need

2011-04-28T17:15:00.000-07:00

Grades have a different significance for different students. Some students absolutely must have an A every time. Those are the students who practically had coronary arrest first year when their gpa was one full grade point less than high school. Well this isn't high school. Still for some anything less than a C is cause for panic. Everyone has their standards. While personal preference and at times scholarship standing have a great bearing on grades there is, in fact, only one subject you really must get an A in. That subject is Persistence. Though it may not be listed in your school's catalogue there is no underestimating the value of Persistence. Planet College has emphasized many times and probably will again that in fact you need to pass your courses with a grade of C in order to Graduate. And that takes persistence. Just a C. Sounds ordinary, uninspired to those who haven't attempted it. Cs take persistance and Cs get degress. Press on, persistently.

Get Those Graduation Announcements Out, Part Four.

2011-04-13T11:19:00.000-07:00

Graduation Announcements, Part Four, The Really Important Part.

Now. Your graduation announcements are addressed, neatly addressed, stamped and mailed. Most importantly you have a list of each of the people to whom you have sent an announcement, especially at the businesses.

This list could be the key to your immediate and even long term future back on Planet Earth.

Here's why. Soon after your actual graduation, very soon, start calling the individuals from the list you had used for your mailing.

Once you reach them identify your self and say something simple and friendly like, "Hi, I'm Recent Graduate. I sent you an announcement and I'd really like to talk with you sometime about what I can do for your business."

Listen carefully to what they say and make a brief note next to their name on the list. If it is something like,"Thanks we'll let you know." note that and go on the the next name.

If you get an interview out of this effort, well, you're on your way. That is the actual point of this entire exercise, full time employment, or as close as possible, which recognizes your status as a college graduate.

Your very hard earned degree is now a permanent part of your resume and the recognition provided by your first job as a graduate is critical to your progress back on Planet Earth.

Get Those Graduation Announcements Out, Part Three.

2011-04-13T11:03:00.000-07:00

Graduation announcements are an integral part of your re-entry on Planet Earth.

This is because you now want a real full time job and your graduation announcements can help.

The last post on this topic ended with stamps. You'll need some for this and you can get them from lots of places including the post office.

When you have your announcements and your name and address list, friends and relatives, ( you want gifts) and businesses, (you want a full time job) you will need to set some time aside to do the addressing, stamping and mailing. When doing so make sure the name and address is neatly applied to each announcement envelope. (If your hand writing still looks like it did in the third grade, get help. You want people to know you are graduating from college not middle school.)

Once the addressing has been accomplished take the envelopes to the post office, there may be a sub-station on your campus, but, where ever it is go there and deposit the entire lot.

Super Important. Be sure and keep a list of everyone you have sent an announcement to.

Almost Done.

Get Those Graduation Announcements Out, Part Two.

2011-04-13T10:41:00.001-07:00

Details Details.

If you are used to communicating by e-mail and are not familiar with mailing you can use this information.

I'f you have read the above post you may be a little under informed about 'mail'. Mail is printed, written or typed messaged placed in a sealed envelope and delivered to an address or post office box by a division of the United States Government called the postal service. When you lived in campus housing you had a post office box on the first floor. It was the little thing you looked into sometimes to see if anyone had sent you money.

Now, you are going to send mail and if you haven't done much of this you might need some help. You will notice the graduation announcements come with envelopes. These will need to be addressed and also stamped. Maybe you can get a list of relatives', especially the prosperous ones, names and addresses from your mom. Use this to hand address individual envelopes.

A list of businesses for whom you would like to work or at least be interviewed could take a little diligence. It is possible to find their mailing address on line but you will also need the name of some individual to send your graduation announcement to. Probably this will be someone in the company's Human Resources Department.

These envelopes also need to be stamped.

There's more.

Get Those Graduation Announcements Out, Part One.

2011-04-13T10:24:00.000-07:00

It's already April and commencement is looming.

If you are finally graduating it is time to get your graduation announcements out. Most institutions provide graduating students with a set amount of graduation announcements, maybe twenty-five. It is part of the 'graduation' package that includes the gown rental and that other stuff that goes along with it. They're printed with the graduate's name, in this case yours, pretty cool.

For you, right now, if you have finally made it, there is probably a flurry of activity associated with your graduation. Among all this don't over look those printed announcements.

First of all they serve as really effective 'gift raising' devices, so for that fact alone they are practically priceless. Shameless, but what the heck, you earned it.

Secondly, but even more important, printed graduation announcements are really effective tools to present yourself to potential employers. Since your NEXT BIG STEP is career, a graduation announcement sent to a business in which you would like to work tells them you are now ready for the big time.

Read On.

C more

2011-04-07T15:40:00.000-07:00

If you are having serious reservations about your abilities as a student on Planet College, based on mainly getting a C and occasionally not even that consider this.

A national organization whose mission is to place college graduates in to under achieving schools nation wide as teachers recruits widely for students right about now. Their criteria includes a 2.5 GPA. That's a C average. A C average. This organization believes that recent college graduates can bring something to primary grade students that they may not be getting from their current teachers. It also believes the graduates it places can benefit from exposure to an environment which they may not experience elsewhere.

Planet College does not wish to debate the rationale of this organization's philosophy, no doubt its intentions are well meant. Planet College does wish to point out that along with extensive rhetoric about 'exceptional' experience this organization, as noted, requires average grades for consideration as a candidate.

What does this imply? This implies that the essential philosophy of this site, that it is OK to get a C, in fact, that it is OK to get nothing but Cs is valid. The reason is simple. College is an exceptional experience. Average performance in an exceptional environment is regarded back on Planet Earth as suitable for employment.

Internship Update

2011-03-17T11:06:00.000-07:00

Due to the frequency of 'internships' offered on Planet College an entry was made here.

This is an update.

Opportunities for "interns" appear often on flyers distributed around most campuses, in job listings in the campus newspaper and on many on line job boards. This term has often been interpreted to indicate "unpaid", the implication being the intern will be compensated in experience. This interpretation is seriously incorrect. Because this term has become so widely misinterpreted The State of California has issued a directive which outlines the conditions under which a worker may be termed an "intern." The New York Times published an article concerning this directive and you may read it here. If you are considering an internship please read it carefully. Of course, the definitions and conditions for an internship will vary from state to state and it is smart for you to check out your state's requirements for this classification. This is to assure you are not simply being exploited. Essentially the consensus is an intern must be compensated by some means for their efforts.

Becoming an intern in the industry in which you intend to work can be a useful opportunity for you. It helps to know, though, that you are not just unpaid labor.

Got a passport?

2011-03-14T12:24:00.000-07:00

Planet College is an endless series of opportunities. New friends, new experiences and even travel. Most every opportunity on Planet College requires some basics, time, money and at least some preparation. Preparation often includes appropriate documentation and for travel outside of the United States a passport. Last summer a student, Brian, was invited by friends to accompany them on a trip to Samoa. Mostly this was for surfing and partying. Part of Samoa is an American possession which is why it is known as American Samoa. Part but not all. Because passport application processing can take several weeks Brian did not have a valid passport when he left for the trip. So when his friends traveled to the parts of Samoa which are not American possessions Brian was left behind. Tough lesson. A little preparation often goes a long way toward making life run a little more smoothly. If you don't have a passport it could be useful to look into getting one. If you do have a passport it is important to determine whether it is up to date. The Bureau of Consular Affairs, which is a division of The United States Department Of State is sponsoring Passport Day In The USA and the details are available here. Important details such as the time and money involved and US Passports issuing agencys are covered here. Look into it. Opportunity on Planet College often comes up when you least expect it. So, like a good scout, Be Prepared.

It is your time.

2011-03-03T11:57:00.000-08:00

Your time is priceless, irreplaceable. Effective use of it is the swiftest way to your goal, graduation. Effective use of time is an art. On Planet College there are numerous distractions. Distractions which can lead to an ineffective use of your precious time.
Most institutions of higher learning are aware that students can benefit from guidance, guidance of all kinds including time use.
At a large state university in Southern California, Dr. Tom Stevens, a counselor has developed a system based on his experience with students. It is based on priorities established by the students themselves. The University of Texas offers time planning to its education majors. Virginia Tech offers time planning in its study guide for students. Princeton too, like most other Ivy League schools and in fact most all schools offers time management instruction. There is a good chance that your school also offers some course or counseling or guidance which features the essential elements of time management or planning. Look into it. It might be through counseling, advising or the education department among others. It is definitely worth your time, and it is your time.

Next Time We'll Have A Guest Speaker

2011-02-21T11:49:00.000-08:00

Instructors on Planet College strive earnestly to make their subject interesting to their students. One common tactic is a guest speaker. Whatever the subject, the guest is usually an authority, involved in the field, and typically not another instructor. Your instructors use guest speakers to liven up the term which can often, especially around now, become a kind of droning drudgery.

Often when a guest speaker is announced the average students response is,
"Oh good, I can skip class."

If this has been your usual attitude this term go. Go, and listen to the guest speaker. Listen carefully to what they have to say. Guest speakers provide a fresh angle on the course content, often illuminating the subject from the angle of a working professional. And that is they key. Whoever they are, they are probably working in the field. While the subject of the course may not be the field you intend to work in, the guests insights might provide stimulation for your career quest. Their talk may provoke possibilities as yet not considered by you.

Even if you are right now absolutely convinced that you will never work in the field which is the topic of the course, listening to this speaker can at least broaden your horizon. That is why you are on Planet College, among many reasons. This time give the guest speaker a chance, show up and listen, you may find a whole new career possibility.

You don't need more time.

2011-02-14T16:46:00.000-08:00

Right around now some projects are coming due and others are being assigned. The big stuff, stuff that is a large part of your grade. Individual reports, group projects, lab assignments, you know the stuff. And right now, as you've seen especially if you've been around Planet College for a few semesters, nobody has any time. Every body is rushed, everyone's schedule is on emergency overload, everyone is busy, BIZZEEE, busy, get it? Or at least that is what the class negotiator will say when the instructor starts handing out the time and date for the way big deal assignments.

Oh, there's no class negotiator? You must be new. Because nearly every class has at least one student who as soon as these assignments are proposed raises her hand and says, "When's it due?" When the instructor replies with the date, that student immediately discharges a horrified gasp and says, "That isn't enough time." And. The negotiations begin. Experienced instructors know the procedure at least as well as the class and after much class time consuming discussion a reasonable alternative is arrived at.

Right? OK. Here's today's news. You don't need more time. Really. You don't. Everyone has the same amount of time, everyone on Earth. Some people get it done early, some people right on time, some later and some never. And in the categories just mentioned it is usually the same people, ever notice?

This term, when the which ever assignment is assigned, figure on finishing it, completely, with in the time assigned. If that seems impossible you may have a scheduling issue or a priorities issue. If you do ask for some help. No, not more time, more time management. Many schools offer as part of a study skills curriculum, time management. It is useful, simple and can really help. If it seems that, for you, there is never enough time look into getting some scheduling help. A little planning (and of course actual execution of the tasks) can go a long way, no matter when the assignment is due.

Get Your Story Straight

2011-02-14T16:12:00.000-08:00

Seth Godin, A former marketing major who has done pretty well in his career since leaving school, often has worthwhile things to say about, sales, markets, and life in general including at times student life.

One basic tenet of Seth's business philosophy says we are all marketers. Well, ok, wait, he says all marketers tell stories. That is, people who are hired to represent products or services or people compose a story about their subject, their employer. This story is of course intended to put the best face possible on the company or person they represent. If they do their job effectively, you, the intended audience or consumer, the market, respond appropriately. You consume their product, applaud their performance, follow their career, apply for their service. If the marketer does not tell an effective story or tell the story effectively, there is little, no or the "wrong" response and the marketer/storyteller looses his or her job or account or position. Simple.
Well, not real real simple but not toooo complicated either. Seth goes one better than the area of commerce. He says we are all marketers, storytellers about ourselves. Worth considering. Right now you are a student. That right there is a big part of your story. What is the story you are telling about your student self? Much of it is what you say or don't say but a much larger part is what you actually do about your student 'story', about your student life.

Are your actions coherent with your general story about your student life? Well, are they? You know, you really do. So, ok, student, what's your story?

We'reeee Baaaack!

2011-01-29T21:22:00.000-08:00

Avenue Q is much praised and awarded Musical which has run both on and off Broadway for several seasons. It features puppets and 'real' characters who together explore the dilemma a recent college graduate faces after graduation. Avenue Q was composed by college graduates (so people do actually graduate.) In honor of your return after a much too short winter break here is one of the songs performed by the original cast, I Wish I Could Go Back To College.

The link is here

Summer Dreams

2011-01-24T12:27:00.000-08:00

Planning is a useful habit and Planet College is a useful place to develop that habit. By now it is obvious that not everything can be planned but somethings can. Knee deep in snow does not lend itself to planning for summer. Dreaming of Summer yes, planning, not so much. But. Summer is coming and some preparation now could be useful then. The opportunities of Summer are pretty well established. More hours at work, another job. Summer school class, an internship. They will be there. Which will there be for you?

Right now, one step toward a productive summer plan could be check out internships on line, the ones that start in June. The pre-req you've been meaning to take but haven't been able to fit in to your schedule, find out if it will be offered this summer. Departments often have their schedules set for Summer by now.

If you will be going back home this Summer do you have a job lined up? If you don't, you can start looking now. Snow does promote Summer Dreams, but it is your actions that make them come true. Summer is coming, act now.

Tell it to Janus

2011-01-08T22:50:00.000-08:00

Right now Resolutions are evaporating as quickly as they were made. Resolutions, the New Year's kind, fade promptly but resolve lasts. With that in mind a brief look at a common college course might prove inspiring.

If you haven't taken Intro to Mythology yet here's a quick overview. Western Civilization is permeated with references to ancient gods, goddesses, demi-gods, semi-gods, deities and entities. For example the days of the week contain the names of Norse and Roman gods and the months of the year still retain a few other Roman gods' names, most notably Mars, March and Janus, January. In ancient times Janus was the go-to Deity for beginnings. Hence the first month of the year remains named in honor of him. Janus is pictured as having two faces, one looking back and one looking forward. In that distant past Roman believers seeking a blessing for an undertaking went to the temple of Janus. For an offering they obtained a key to the locked temple door from the priest. The key opened the entryway. Upon entering the seeker walked to the statue of Janus and made their entreaty. They then walked to the rear door of the temple and using the same key they unlocked that door and made their exit.

There are two significant points in this simple tale. First, Janus has two faces, watching the past as well as the future. Second, the same key opened the exit as well as the entrance. From these symbolic facts we can conclude a simple and profound lesson. The past is the key to the future. Your past is the key to your future. During this month of Janus, with a fresh start at hand, it seems wise to pause and reflect. A look at your past will tell what has been. A brief glance, no need to linger, should suffice. Has what you've been doing helped you toward your goal? For an Average Student on Planet College, for the most part yes, but, in some ways, no. You can probably sort out quickly what has worked and what hasn't.

This quick survey of your past is the key to your future.

Happy New Year From Planet College.

Pressing Ever Onward Toward Inevitible Victory.

2010-12-27T15:21:00.000-08:00

The Planet College experience has been an international experience since college itself was devised. Exposure to cultures from around the world is one advantage, one of many, that higher education affords students.

To this end Planet College would like to present a virtual mainstay of Japanese student life. In that culture there is a head band evolved from traditional warrior apparel , a sort of Samurai doo-rag,which is often worn by students in that country when attempting a particularly difficult or important test. Those familiar with Japanese student life understand why this means that Japanese students wear these headbands, known as 'hachimaki' , nearly all the time. These types of headbands are always adorned with slogans, usually in Kanji*, like "Pressing Onward Toward Inevitable Victory". As you can see from the link the particular version displayed have a dot centrally displayed. This dot is a Japanese symbol meaning home of the Sun. ( Did you know the Sun is from Japan?) Like 'team wear' in the USA it, no doubt, has the value of promoting an indomitable attitude and solidarity with others so adorned.

If you don't feel like shelling out the bucks for one of the hachimaki in the example it should be pretty obvious you can fashion your own. All that is necessary is a clean, white handkerchief, extra large in your case, and a quick trip by the shop where that guy did your last tattoo. Those guys always know Kanji,and, if he's still in business, he can ink whatever slogan you prefer. About the dot, well, why not try your schools mascot or logo or something. But something simple. There you go. Now you are ready for your next big test, just like an old school samurai, pressing ever onward toward your own inevitable victory.

*Kanji is the Japanese written system of Chinese characters.

Don't Ask. It's a guy thing.

2010-12-22T19:48:00.000-08:00

Gender equality has made progress in the last few decades. But there may be one area where gender equity may never be achieved. That is in asking for help. Or asking for anything for that matter.

You've probably observed this to some degree in your own life not just on Planet College. You're at the wheel, pressing through the night, driving with some female, your girlfriend or someone else's. From the passenger seat a soft voice caresses your ears. "Do you have any idea where we are?" Being a guy you say, "Sure." Whether you do or not. Your passenger remains unconvinced and suggests politely, "Why don't we stop and ask?"

No chance. Guys just don't do that.

And there is a sound biological basis for this behavior. Males, men, guys, us, are supposed to be in charge. In fact we are wired to be. We make a decision and move straight ahead, no questions asked. Females are genetically predisposed to be curious, to ask. You've probably noticed this in class. When an instructor says, "Are there any questions?" You reply silently,"Not on your life." "Besides", you think, "If no body asks any questions maybe he'll let us out early". Then from across the classroom a soft voice caresses every one's ears. " What I want to know is . . . " or " What if . . . " Or. Well, a question from a female, coed, girl, the opposite sex, one of those. While in the short term this may cause class to go on too long, at least for your schedule, asking isn't such a bad thing.

Try it. Next time you don't know something (and for most guys this is very tough to admit.) even in class. Ask. Just ask.

Who knows you might learn something. And after all this is what Planet College is for.

But wait there's still more.

2010-11-26T16:32:00.000-08:00

Brian Armstrong is a college graduate who has some observations about college, learning and life which he has developed since graduation. You can read them here. Planet College does not disagree with Brian's over all conclusion which is specifically much of what is required on Planet College isn't useful back on Planet Earth. Essential skills such as personal finance and meeting people are not taught at all in most school systems. True enough and regrettable to say the least. Still, Planet College maintains that your higher education experience does have enduring value for average students. Among the most valuable are the friends you've made and are making through your school experience. Additionally the skills you develop negotiating the daily maze of school while working toward your degree will be permanently useful for you. Brian notes that the content of most courses is useful only for passing that course. Undeniably accurate however acquiring the content in a demonstrable manner means that your learning skills are expanded. When you have to learn something that you really will be applying you know you can do it. Finally Brian's thoughts are clearly presented in a useful manner. Brian probably learned how to do this in college. So If you choose to read and consider Brian's work remember it was written by a college graduate.

Let's Go Surfing.

2010-11-16T14:31:00.000-08:00

Planet College offers vast choices for learning. Here's an example.

Surfing:
How To Surf A Wave In One Day*

Surfing is just one of the many, many learning opportunities available on Planet College. For those students who don't happen to have a nearby ocean or any surfing class there is still much to be learned from this video.

Watch it again carefully. The instructor presents himself clearly as capable, capable of being the instructor for this course. He also states confidently that you can learn this sport. He then emphasizes preparation, essential to success in any class. Primarily preparation begins with the proper equipment. He also illustrates the proper approach, surveying the area where the skill will be accomplished, in this case the ocean. The instructor emphasizes throughout his course your safety. He illustrates step by step the basic steps, positioning, movements and approach. He has divided the subject into small doable steps. At each step he re-emphasizes the basics.
From this series of videos an average student could probably with some determination and of course, a surfboard, wetsuit and ocean, learn to surf.

An average student could also learn from this series something else. A student could learn an effective means to approach and learn any basic subject. Go over again this instructors approach. He introduces himself and establishes his authority to be the instructor. He emphasizes safety and proper equipment. He presents the subject in simple basic steps. He reviews what has been learned at the beginning of each new lesson. He encourages the learner frequently and presents each lesson confidently. He also presents the benefits of having learned to surf for the potential student.

This basically is an effective means to teach most introductory subjects. If you have had trouble accomplishing or completing any basic course it is likely that at least some of the components listed here have been missing.

Think back to that class you finally dropped because you just couldn't 'get it.' Review it carefully. Assuming you made a sincere effort you may recall the instructor did not adequately present the subject. At least not for you.

Most instructors teach subjects they care about and are sincerely interested in their student's success. Most but not all. Occasionally, as you have seen, an instructor may have been a little sloppy, unprepared, remote, obscure or disinterested. At other times instructors are "plugged in" as last minute replacements. Frustrating as this situation can be it need not be lethal.

Reviewing this video and the presentation of the subject you now understand the basics of passing a class. When you find you are a 'little lost' in some course you really need to pass it may be that some of the basic elements outlined here are missing or under emphasized. Now that you know what it takes to present a subject effectively you can ask for help in the unclear areas. If not from the instructor perhaps from the tutoring center or even someone in your building who has passed this same course.

There is nothing more dreadful than that vague lost feeling which starts to creep up a few weeks into the term. Perhaps these basic steps might help you surf the treacherous seas of Planet College toward your graduation.

*This video was found on videojugg, 11/16/2010 and may be subject to copyright restrictions.

Just A Note Before You Go.

2010-11-16T13:48:00.000-08:00

The traditional break is looming and so the traditional Planet College advisory about Thanksgiving applies as it does every year at this time. Read it here. Read it carefully.

What do I have to do to pass this class?

2010-11-08T13:23:00.000-08:00

By now in the term your progress in any course you've been taking is pretty clear. Isn't it? That is you should generally understand what grade you can expect for each individual course. If you are not fairly clear about your standing, for instance, if your attendance has been spotty it is probably wise to talk with your instructor. When you do your intention is simply to find out for sure if you can expect a passing grade for her course. The procedure is simple. First find her office, if she has one and also find out her office hours. This is preferable to merely speaking with her right after class. If you feel your grade is iffy you made need a little more time. Once you find her office and hours call to make an appointment. This important because instructors time is valuable and this shows her you respect that. Remember, if you haven't spoken at all with your instructor you may have to introduce your self to her. When you go bring any class materials you may have questions about. And bring a pencil and paper. After you have established who your are tell her you want to know exactly what you have to do to get a passing grade in her class. It is likely she will have her grade book handy and will probably review it. What you want to know is are there any missing assignments still due. Also is there anything else pending that you will need to take care of for her class by the end of the term. Finally, ask her what grade you must receive on the final to assure a passing grade.

Carefully note by writing down the information she provides you with. This is your guide to a passing grade for this class. Then, follow through. Late or missing assignments, turn them in. Need at least a B on the final to pass. Study. If there is tutoring available for this course use them.

You don't want another D, F or incomplete. You don't want to have to take it over in summer school.

What ever it takes to get a passing grade go find out and do it.

The More I Work The Faster My Money Goes

2010-11-08T09:37:00.000-08:00

With winter break coming soon students on Planet College are looking forward to - working more. Either more hours at their regular jobs or seasonal jobs or both. Which ever it is most students will once again realize truth of the line from the original rock and roll classic Shake, Rattle and Roll, "The more I work the faster my money goes." Working all week for a paycheck which disappears in one weekend night is a common frustration. The obligations toward friends and family during the holidays does nothing to ease this frustration.

This post is about one more frustration, taxes.

Earnings are taxed just like everything else. Some time next year you will probably owe money on the money you are earning this year. Some of this obligation may be relieved by withholding, the money taken out of your paycheck for your future income tax obligation. When you fill out the paperwork after being hired you fill out among other things a form called a W-4. This authorizes your employer to take out a set amount of your earnings each pay period. This money, a deduction from your paycheck, is intended to pay for your federal and in some cases state tax obligation.

Next year you will receive a W-2, a form from your employers which will detail how much you earned and how much was withheld from your earnings. That is in part an explanation of the frustration you feel when you work more and seem to have less.

Right now as the busyness of the end of the term and the winter break mounts there is little time to stop and examine your financial situation. More work simply means at least some more money right now.

Next year, when you get those w-2s and start doing your tax return for 2010 look carefully at the amount which has been withheld and the amount you will actually owe in taxes. Too much withholding could mean a refund check from the government. Not enough withholding will probably mean you will be sending a check to the government. Either way then would be a good time to look at your w-4 amounts. If it seems wise to adjust them one way or another it will probably be possible to submit a new W-4 to your employer. Check on it.

What's for dinner? IKEA again.

2010-11-06T20:39:00.000-07:00

Dining hall food seems intended to drive students to dine anywhere but the dining hall. For countless eons the numbing sameness and general overall lack of appeal has been the stuff of complaining conversations across Planet College. However, dining anywhere else cost more money of course. It is this additional cost which keeps most poverty stricken students chained to their meal plan.

Now, IKEA, yes that IKEA, has developed simple, easy to follow videos displaying food preparation. These videos are based on a brilliantly simple cookbook which they have recently issued. The book is free, written in Swedish and available in - Sweden. But the videos which lay out food preparation in the style of an illustrated technical manual, are available now on line. The ingredients and the basic utensils needed are clearly presented in the video as well as the procedure of preparing the food (its called cooking, ask your mom).

The requirements are so basic and the food so simple it is possible that you could start preparing your own meals right there in your room. And you don't even need one of those little metal wrenches like you did to put your desk together.

Bon Appetit!

Sleep late and still get to class on time.

2010-11-06T20:31:00.000-07:00

This weekend the semi annual ritual of time confusion occurs once again. The shift is from daylight savings to standard which is scheduled for Saturday night. This means re- setting your time keeping devices, clocks, watches and even some computer. Moving the big hand back on hour will add an extra sixty minutes to your morning schedule, if you have a morning schedule. This means that you can sleep late Monday, ( of course, you're sleeping late Sunday) and possibly, for once, get to your eight o'clock class on time. Enjoy.

Beer Bongs and Buddah

2010-11-06T11:47:00.000-07:00

If you hadn't dropped that Intro to Philosophy class you might have gotten to the part where the Instructor covered Eastern Philosophy. The wisdom of Buddha, the sage pronouncements of Confucius, or the ever timeless Lao T'sze. They, each in their own way, describe living creation as an Eternal Now, a timeless Cosmic Void in which change is a seductive illusion.

Good thing you dropped.

While time on Planet College often seems like a continuous wheel of get-up-late, sleep-through-class, get-wasted, pass-out, get-up-later, this might more correctly be defined as avoidance rather than illumination. Despite what the Buddhah may have said about the illusory nature of reality you are on Planet College to progress, achieve, remain productively active and acquire something real, a degree. Although the day-to-day can often seem timeless and unreal there is a “real” purpose. This purpose, your graduation, can seem distant and unreal among distractions even more seductive than Eastern Philosophy, beer bongs, hotties, substances legal and otherwise, distractions Buddah never dreamed of.

Maintaining your focus and following through on your intention, your original intention, a diploma, is very, very difficult. And finally very, very necessary. It is the reason you are on Planet College.

Stay focused, Dude.

Other Schools

2010-10-26T10:31:00.000-07:00

Higher Education Institutions tend to develop in clusters. It's probable that there are a few other colleges or universities close by where you are attending. Students on Planet College often become somewhat insular about their particular school. This may be particularly true where community colleges are concerned. At times students at four year institutions my avoid association with their community college neighbors due to let's say "issues". These attitudes can be unnecessarily restricting.

Community colleges currently enroll the largest percentage of college students in the USA. These schools are often well equipped and staffed. As a resource for the "community" that is the area generally around where they are located they function very effectively. Unless you are a student there you may not know that these schools have professionally staffed libraries, well maintained facilities and knowledgeable instructors in every area. The are also, relatively speaking, less costly than traditional four year universities and colleges.

What this can mean for you is another resource for your needs, interests and abilities. Is your library crowded, probably yes. The local community college may be able to help. Are the work out facilities on your campus aging, under-staffed or closed for remodeling? A nearby school may have what you need for now. More practically local schools also have job offices or career centers. These schools often are more responsive to the needs of local employers. This means for you that while your schools job center emphasis may be necessarily on career another local school may be more immediately helpful finding you work.

Finally, it is common for neighboring schools to have courtesy agreements with other schools. This means that your ASB card may be all you need to take advantage of the other school's facilities. Check it out.

The Job Fair.

2010-10-26T10:02:00.000-07:00

You're slouching through the student center tastefully slobbed out in the same jeans and hoodie you've been wearing for the last three years. There, before your eyes, are rows of folding tables with company literature carefully displayed and the dressed-for-success company representatives on the cheap folding chairs that go with the tables. There, also before your eyes, are students at least some what neatly dressed, distributing carefully composed resumes and conversing earnestly. Whoa. The Job Fair. On your campus is it coming or has it gone? Or do you know? Campus job fairs are another staple on Planet College as the term grinds on. They are usually arranged by The ASU or sometimes Student Services to facilitate students getting to the point of their education. Work. Full time work.

If you like thousands of others, OK, hundreds of thousands of others on Planet College have, up until now, taken a totally casual approach to your future back on Earth it is quite possibly time to kick your career planning up a notch.

Here's a few ideas. First, if you do happen to accidentally wander through The Job Fair go ahead. Stop and talk to a few of the company representatives. Pick up business cards and send them an e-mail, "Thanks, I enjoyed talking with you."

Also, look around for a campus organization which even generally relates to careers you may be interested in. Some of these groups may be volunteer. Some of them may even have their own Career Fair or what ever they want to call their job deal. Even if you are not a member of their respective society you are probably still welcome to attend the fair. These experiences are basically informational right now but they can be inspirational in the sense that you may come across a field in which you are actually interested.

Also these events function as that time honored approach to job getting, networking. The more people you know the more likely you are to get work.

How's it goin'? No really.

2010-10-19T11:54:00.000-07:00

At this point in a typical term on Planet College things have usually distilled down to a daily grind. Amidst this daily grind mid-terms, tests, projects, presentations have come and probably gone. Mid-term is a good time to pause and review your progress. So. How's it goin'? Ok? No, really, this time "How's it goin'", doesn't call for they typical, "OK, Same ol' same ol' " response of a glancing social interchange. Mid-Terms and actually the resultant grades can be a useful measurement of how the now day-to-day grind really is going. Or what your efforts are actually producing.

This simple procedure can provide a beacon in the daily fog that Planet College often produces. Ask your self which has been your most difficult class. Are you doing better than you excepted in some class you were dreading? Are you doing worse? Right now the results of you effort are available. They are the grade on you mid-terms. What grades have you actually received? A? F? Incomplete? C? If you have a class or classes which are proving more challenging it is time to get some help. There still can be tutors available at the tutoring center. Make use of them, they are probably free.

And one other thing. Talk to your instructor. If you haven't spoken with her before you may have to introduce your self. Tell her which course and which of her sections you are enrolled in. Track her down somewhere, before class, after class, her office if she has one. Find her and tell her, " I want to do as well as I can in your class. And I'm finding the class more difficult than I thought." She may have some suggestions. She may not. The important thing is you have made contact and she can see you are at least interested. If she does have a few pointers take care to look like you are listening while she's speaking. This simple step, making contact with the instructor, can be really helpful around final grade time. You now have some guidelines for the rest of the term. Be sure and follow through as best as you can on these tips. Also, as noted, the instructor has seen that you are really interested in passing her course. This too can work in your favor.

Remember you want to graduate someday and until then you are entitled to all the help you can get. A lot of that help you can provide for yourself.

Talk To A Freshman

2010-09-13T15:16:00.001-07:00

Seasoned students on Planet College have developed an efficient approach to getting through. Getting through registration, getting through a class, getting though a test, getting through the line at the food court. Planet College can be said to be about getting through. Which is why this post my seem surprising. This week or during the course of your busy schedule some time soon talk to a freshman. To many this will seem abhorrent, freshmen being the pariah of the social structure on most Planet College Campuses. But. There is a reason for this suggestion. Find a freshman, right now there are probably a few doing motocross on their fixies in and out of the founders fountain in front of the admin building. Well, you know where they are. The approach is going to be tricky unless you already know one but straight forward will probably work well. Just walk up to one, introduce yourself and say," Got time to talk?" Once they get past that you might be a nark or gay (or a gay nark) they may say "Yeah." If they do, ask them about themselves. How they got to your school, if they have a major, what their classes are like so far. Stuff like that. Then. Just listen. Really listen, because this is the point of this post. Listen very carefully. What you are likely to hear is a great deal of energy, a great deal of enthusiasm and absolutely no sense. Make the conversation brief, you do have things to do. Thank them who ever they are and move on.
Later. Reflect on their conversation and remember at one time, maybe not so long ago, you were bursting with energy, full of enthusiasm and really pretty nuts too. The value of this small encounter is to show you that through all of the daily drudgery and ups and downs of your career you have come a long, long way on Planet College.

Rock The Vote.

2010-09-13T14:58:00.000-07:00

Progress on Planet College usually includes a growing awareness of the larger world around us. Larger in fact than typical day-to-day student life encompasses.An increasing awareness of life probably by now includes an increasing awareness of the political factors influencing your life. In the USA, the country where this site is maintained, elections occur regularly, particularly around this time of year. Their varying character include local, state and national elections which encompass every position from animal control officer to president. Your opportunity to influence these factors is characterized by an organization called Rock The Vote. Information about them is available at www.rockthevote.com . Look into them. One important thing they may help you determine is where you are eligible to vote. If you are residing somewhere other than your permanent mailing address, and many, many students are, you will need to determine where you are eligible to vote. Find out when and where you can vote and what you have to do to effectively do so. It is your future.

Easy A

2010-09-03T16:26:00.001-07:00

Myths, dreams, rumors and gossip persist on Planet College. In fact they may be said to be the essential stuff of daily student interactions. One such persistent myth is the myth of the Easy A.

You've heard it. "Hey. It's an easy A." Maybe you've followed through. Was it? Safe bet there was a little more to it than "easy" might indicate. Still this myth is so sturdy that recently a film maker has chosen Easy A for a title.

Easy A. Catchy, seductive and fictional. The movie it self capitalizes on the myth of the Easy A to explore other areas of student interaction. Still more fantasy. Attractive, appealing, intriguing and diverting. That is what fantasy is for. Especially film fantasy. For a few bucks and a couple of hours we are taken away to yet another world even more fantastic than Planet College.

When it is over we resume the day-to-day drudgery of slugging out our schedule on the way to a degree, a career and dealing with student debt. (But that's another planet.)

Meantime this fantasy serves a useful purpose. But don't confuse movie titles with the facts of Planet College. There are very, very few Easy As. Very few.

Hey. Do a flyer.

2010-08-24T19:06:00.000-07:00

For all of the choices of communication available on Planet College flyers are still among the most effective. Flyers are cheap, they are quick and they work.

Need to sell that Calculus book quick or need that Calculus book quick? Do a flyer.

House mate bailed isn't coming back? Need a room mate quick? Do a flyer.

Got a service you can trade for cash? Sushi catering, frisbee golf coach, house moving helper? Do a flyer.

Make it simple fast and to the point. Some PCs have flyer programs built in. All ya gotta do is fill in the information. Use the kind with the tear off phone tag built in. On this section put the basics. Calculus book (999) 666-XXXX CALL NOW!

Head with what you're offering or what your seeking in large bold type.

ANTHRO 101 WORKBOOK NEVER USED.

$20.00

Since flyers always have to do with money place the cost, fee or price prominently below the offer.

Then your name, first name 'll do and contact number, cell, twitter, land line what ever.

If you've done it on a computer you can probably print out ten or twenty depending on how much paper you have- but- black on white paper doesn't really catch the eye. Better still print out one and then go to the campus quick copy. Have them run the copies, ten to twenty should do it, on flashy eye catching paper. Remember you want a quick response. Some copy places have that really gaudy iridescent type of paper but even a kind of Halloweenie bright orange 'll do. Ya wanna be noticed, fast.

Got the copies? OK.

Now all you need is heavy duty scotch tape, masking tape, possibly a heavy stapler and scissors.

Next, use the scissors to cut the sides of the individual tear offs which are at the bottom of the flyer.

Now armed with your flyer "kit", head out for where everybody is. The quad, the front of the book store, The registration window. Bulletin boards in the residence halls. Places everyone has to go. When you've found a location use the appropriate tape or stapler and fix the flyer at eye level. Tape if you're using tape firmly. People tend to really tear so make sure the flyer is fixed securely. If you can use the stapler do so, But. Run a strip of tape across the lower part of the flyer near the top of the tear off. This will prevent the whole flyer from being torn down when someone tears at a tearoff.

Get them all out prominently. You should have what you want, a sold book, a new housemate, a frisbee golf coaching gig within about twenty four hours. If you don't get a response within twenty four hours- do another flyer run.

Keep tryin', keep flyin' till you do. Flyers work.

Accepting Applications

2010-08-16T11:15:00.000-07:00

Planet College endorses jobs on campus. Most student's work at least one job, often more. Working on campus provides some simple advantages. You are there anyway so transportation costs are eliminated. Depending on the place where you work there can be useful discounts, books, food, tickets and stuff. You can meet people. Social is a big part of life on Planet College so working on campus can mean expanding your in-person facebook page.

That's jobs on campus.

How about around campus, near campus, by campus? You'll see the signs at the dry cleaners, bike shop, coffee place and all, "Accepting applications." A job near campus is practically the same as a job on campus. No transportation hassle, meet people, discounts on stuff and a few bucks. Cool.

Listen Up, Soldier!

2010-07-13T13:39:00.000-07:00

For veteran's returning to Planet College or attempting to further their education, Planet College can be more than a bit of culture shock. Compared to surviving fire fights, and roadside bombs not to mention the often barely organized insanity that is the American Military the culture of higher education can seem down right trivial. The concerns of students who have no military background often feel exaggerated. This is all in your perspective. Moving from a war zone or at least a war culture to a place where the next big party is the major student concern can be discouraging.

This is to be expected.

The shift in emphasis is overwhelming for veterans at times. While there are commonly resources on campus for veterans, often soldiers transitioning to civilian life will feel no one can understand. In fact, this is probably true. The business of most universities is preparing students for a world far different than the military. This can take some getting used to. If you are not the type of person who commonly ask for help it might be time to re-evaluate your tactics.

Asking for help is often the last thing a veteran wants to do. No one wants to be seen as the soldier who can't handle it. But this is civilian life and it is ok to ask for help. So, if you are feeling a little distressed or confused. Try the veterans affairs, try a classmate or call a buddy. It is ok to ask for help.

Dismissed!

Before you go back read this.

2010-07-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

If you're Summer is dragging along and you're seriously considering not going back to school this fall consider this.

While on Planet College You have learned more than you are aware of and you now know more about you, about living, about school and about life than you currently appreciate.

So think about what you might not have learned and skills you might not have acquired had you not attempted Planet College.

Whether you go back in the Fall or not realize now you have learned a lot. If school has gotten too frustrating making a list of your options and making a simple plan of action based on your experiences can be the most useful next step in your career, whether it is on Planet College or back on Earth.

Always ask- even if she's cute.

2010-06-22T08:59:00.001-07:00

Jacob was home from school and back working nights at a small convenience store near the beach. Jacob has worked there summers and holiday breaks since high school stocking, pricing and ringing up purchases. It's a few extra bucks in addtion to his daytime job as a lifeguard.

On typical summer weekends the store is crowded with partiers stocking up. Ice, chips, wine and beer, lots and lots of beer are typical purchases. The law in Jacob's home state requires identification to purchase alcohol for anyone who looks under thirty. By now Jacob is pretty experienced in spotting underage buyers and always asks for ID. Well, almost always. On a recent busy Friday of a holiday weekend the store was packed and Jacob was busily ringing up for the beach bound revelers and occasionally asking for ID just in case. In the midst of all this busyness a girl approached Jacob's register with a Fourty. She looked "kinda young" as Jacob recalls but she was also "pretty cute" and had a friendly smile. For the sake of expediency and possibly for the sake of making a friend Jacob skipped the part about asking for proper identification. He rang up the purchase and the girl left.

A few minutes a police detective entered the store accompanied by some local uniformed officers and the girl who had purchased the Fourty. "Did you sell this girl alcohol?" the officer demanded. Jacob was practically dumb struck. "Yes." he replied. "Did you see her identification?" Jacob said he didn't remember.

It was a sting.

The local police in association with that state's Alcohol Licensing Board had a program of sending minors into retail stores to attempt to purchase alcohol. These operations were usually during busy holiday weekend evenings. If the minor was successful the seller was cited. The detective filled out a citation while the officers took Jacob's picture with the girl holding the Fourty. Jacob signed the ticket which was an order to appear in court.

Since that night Jacob has appeared in court. The district attorney has offered him a deal in which if Jacob completes an educational course held over a weekend the charges will be dismissed. The course costs several hundred dollars, just about what Jacob makes in a month at that job.

Expensive lesson. Note it carefully. No matter where you are but especially where money is involved always follow the rules, regulations and guidelines. In retail, if part of your job is selling alcohol always, always, always ask for ID- even if she's cute.

Don't do the crime if you can't pay the fine.

2010-06-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

The sheer busyness of life on Planet College offers numerous opportunities to cut corners, especially with minor nuisances like parking meters. "I'm just gonna run in here for a second so I don't have to put any money in the meter." Experience often shows it is best to put the money in the parking meter- even if you'll "only be a minute." While parking without paying may not seem like a serious crime, once a parking ticket is issued the actual fine can be steep. And ignoring the ticket can add up to some serious money. Skipping a few coins now can result in to paying some major bucks later. Parking tickets add up. If they are on campus unpaid tickets can eventually interfere with getting copies of your transcript. So before you "just stop for a minute" in the disabled parking space or a no parking zone-think- do you have the money to pay the fine? Well? Probably not. So go park where it's free, even if you have to walk a few blocks. Don't do the crime if you can't pay the fine.

Living in Your Department.

2010-06-08T17:11:00.000-07:00

Summer on Planet College is the time most students earn most of the money they will need for fall term. Two jobs, three jobs even four not at all uncommon- even with squeezing in a summer school class or two. The advantage to working more than one job is you have that much less time to spend the money you are earning. This can lead to an opportunity you may not have considered.

At some point in the perpetually discouraging life of every student on Planet College there comes a time to declare and act on it. That is declare a major and do what is necessary to fulfill the requirements. This usually entails more than the average attendance/attention expended so far in your courses.

Making an outrageously serious effort to actually get somewhere in your education requires time, commitment and application. And money. If now you are strenuously involved in accumulating as much money as possible for Fall consider this.

This fall take as many courses as you are permitted in your major. Be in your department for every event, every course you need, every guest speaker and every major related program offered. This is often referred to as "Living in the department" and, as you've seen ,some devoted majors do actually end up sleeping in the hallway. Student's who have made this exceptional effort often report experiencing an unexpected lift when grades are issued. Spending one full term concentrating on nothing but your major will upgrade your assessment of your self as a student. It will also put you significantly closer to actually graduating.

Living in the department takes a special effort and is of course dependant on your finances. If working during the regular term is a necessary priority then living in your department may not be possible. Still, if you can save enough money from all those work hours this summer, then, you may be in a position to really make a move this Fall.

Ok, Now Let's review.

2010-05-19T18:25:00.000-07:00

End of the term.

Time to review.

How did you do?

Up to expectations?

A little short? Any surprises?

Take a brief time out. Now. Even if your grades aren't in for the term. Are you any closer to your goal,now? More basically, do you have a goal?

Will you be back next term?

Too busy for all this? Yes, Probably. But if you can answer yes to any of the above questions, before you leave campus find someone, one person, who you can thank. There is at least one. The library clerk who helped with your paper. The department secretary who approved you for a class even though you didn't have the pre-requisites. The dining hall worker who kept you supplied with snacks even though you didn't have a meal plan. Someone. Some one on campus has helped you this term. Before you leave go tell them. Just say "Thanks."

Have a memorable Summer.

Planet College

A reminder about debt.

2010-05-13T16:59:00.000-07:00

Project on student debt maintains a site here.http://www.projectonstudentdebt.org/

Bookmark it. It is important if you have any debt at all ( and who on Planet College has no debt?) to keep up with your rights as well as your responsibilties. For example there is a recent post about congressional action which could make at least some student loans dischargeable in bankruptcy.

This may not seem important now but it could affect you in the future. Check it out.

When a C wont cut it.

2010-05-01T13:04:00.000-07:00

This site is dedicated to the proposition that in almost every case a student can proceed through their schooling, never get a grade higher than a C and achieve a degree.

This is almost but not always true. There are a number of exceptions. One example will do. At a State University in Southern California no student can be admitted to the Film Department, to major in Film, until (among other requirements) they achieve a grade of B in the lower division Introduction to Film course offered by the department. For other students, not potential Film Majors, this course fulfills a lower division General Education Fine Art requirement and they can finish the course with any grade they wish, (Hopefully a passing one.) But students seeking admission to the Film Department as a film major must earn at least a B.

If you are not aware of the specific requirements for, for example, your potential major right now is a good time to start looking. Really looking hard at your schedule next term and all of the requirements looming for courses you need for graduation.

Where were you on April First?

2010-04-27T18:28:00.000-07:00

Where were you on April First? Back on Planet Earth, USA the US Census is in full operation.
In order for states and any number of federal programs to receive their fair share of funds every one needs to be counted. Especially students. You may be living in the residence halls, staying at a friends, sleeping in your car or still at home. No matter. You need to be counted because you count. April first was the official Census Day for USA Census 2010. Were you counted? It is still not too late. The US Department of Commerce through the Office of the Census will be continuing their operation through the end of May. If you believe you were overlooked contact your local census office. You matter and you count. Just you alone are worth about $3000.00 to your state of residence and at this point they really need it.

You're Not Going Out Looking Like That or .....

2010-04-26T17:26:00.001-07:00

. from Dressy Messy Slobdom to Business Casual.

It is now time to think carefully about your appearance. The term is ending and if your career on Planet College is winding down then it is time to get a real job. Covered elsewhere is the fact that graduation announcements make useful self-promotional mailers for your real job back on Planet Earth.

Well. You send them out and what happens. You may get called for an interview. The do's and don'ts, ins and outs, ups and downs and whys and wherefores of The Real Full Time Job Interview are covered in many other elsewheres. If you need some further pointers your schools career center may have counselors who can bring you up to date.

This post is dedicated to what may be called Mom 101, remember? You were going somewhere. Somewhere a little more important than the mall or soccer practice. As you hit it to the front door that all too familiar and irritating voice split the air,"You're not going out looking like that are you?" Mom, of course, and, of course, you weren't. (Going out looking like that.)

Now the demand for air guitarists and frisebee coaches is diminishing and the job hunt is getting serious.

So. When you prepare for that first interview or that next interview or any interview. Stop. Take a look in the mirror. Seriously. Are you going to the interview looking like that? Would you hire you? Think about it. Then do something. Upgrade your look to look like someone you wouldn't mind working with. It could definitely help your chances.

Dude, you suck.

2010-04-11T15:12:00.000-07:00

Worse than when you don't rock ( see earlier post, Dude You Don't Rock) is when you suck. And, more hardcore reality again, there are times when you basically suck and things at which you really suck. Like spelling for example. If paper after paper has shown that at spelling you suck. Well, then dude, you suck. At spelling.

There may be things at which you don't suck. Maybe nine-ball or rock gym or waiting tables or calculus. Fine. Then there that is.

And, as repeated endlessly here on Planet College, becoming aware of when you rock and when you suck and what you care about and what you don't care about is, in fact, progress. All this stuff about which you are becoming aware is you. Whether you rock or suck or neither the more you learn about you the better equipped you are to negotiate Planet College and return to Earth with something even more useful than your degree. Return to Earth with a useful measure of self-awareness.

Spring Broke

2010-03-29T16:35:00.000-07:00

If your entire building went skiing on Party Mountain and you stayed back because you said you had to study you are to be commended. If you studied. If, what is more likely, it costs a dime to go around the world you still couldn't go around the block then you are spring broke. Penniless. Flat don't have it, financially speaking.

This condition is serious but not fatal. In fact if you actually resisted something as tempting as round the clock partying because you just couldn't afford it you may be growing up. If partying at all costs is becoming a part of your past you may be subtly subjecting your self to emerging maturity. Eventually it catches up with almost everybody on Planet College much as many resist it. It isn't exciting, it isn't sexy, it isn't even particularly appealing. But growing up happens and you may now be noticing some signs of it in yourself.

Admitting anything is the first step in incorporating it into your awareness. And an expansion of your awareness, organized and otherwise, has been the overall purpose of your Higher Education.
Becoming aware of your skills, talents, likes, dislikes and even your limitations is the basic necessity of your continuing growth during and after college.

So, if your spring broke and you know it give yourself a quiet hooray. Adulthood happens, happy Spring

Cs Overseas

2010-03-25T17:24:00.000-07:00

Studying abroad is not just for superior students. There are a great number of programs for averages students, C students, just like you.

Your campus may have a study abroad office. If not check a campus near you. Often a walk-in, even without an appointment can give you the general parameters of studying in another country. Programs vary from a few weeks to a full year.

Check it out.

Dude, you don't rock.

2010-03-13T11:51:00.000-08:00

You hear it a lot on Planet College, Planet Earth and several other places.

"Dude, you rock!" Maybe it may have applied to you. Maybe at that time for a few minutes you did rock. And you may again sometime. Who knows?

But for the most part, day-to-day, in what ever endeavors you are endeavoring in you don't rock.

You simply just get by. Like all of the other desperately average students on Planet College you rarely rock.

And this is the essential situation you find yourself in, getting by, rarely rockin'.

The basic premise of Planet College is it is ok to get by. What ever you have to do as a student to get your degree is ok. If you never rock it is still ok.

The only established, tested, traditional and finally effective way to your degree is to keep steadily plugging along until you graduate.

When you do, and Planet College believes you will, you can buy one of those bricks in the quad that people purchase to commemorate themselves. You've seen them. You probably step on several on a daily basis. They are usually red and have a graduate's name, year and major handsomely etched on them. Some schools allow slogans to be included. After your name yours can say, " He hardly ever rocked but he did graduate."

Try EDFund

2010-02-25T14:25:00.000-08:00

Constant anxiety sometimes amounting to dizziness around money is chronic on Planet College. Students have differnt responses to the stress of finances but ultimately the wisest course is to face your finance situation.

While it often seems true that there is no dilemma on Planet College that more money could not solve or at least reduce, more money is rarely an option.

With no more money on the horizon useful tools relating to finance are a welcome alternative. EdFund has such tools.

EdFund is essentially a student loan management organization. This particular organization through their website offers more than most. EdFund offers comperehensive news and information about student loans and finances. They also offer finance planning tools.

Finance, your own personal finance, is something you will be dealing with for the rest of your life. A good time to start is now. EdFund has useful tools, go there and check it out.

"Spill chick"is not your friend.

2010-02-20T14:45:00.000-08:00

Your sitting in your English Comp Lit class or some class that requires a paper. It is the day that it is due and you are exceptionally proud because here you have it printed out neatly and ready to turn it. As the instructor calls for the papers to be passed forward you glance down and there, like a big sticky booger on your nice neat paper, is a really gross spelling error. After all you had done finally to, for once, turn a complete paper in on time.

Chances are you have fallen victim to the curse of Spellcheck. Most word processing programs have a feature which when cued will correct spelling errors. Students who have depended on Spellcheck or some such program have often done so to their regret. Usually, the frantic process of getting a paper printed out after laboring till two am does not allow for much personal copy editing. Busy students simply allow the auto-correction device to do it's job and turn in the results. Often this is to their regret.

The problem is all digital based tools are so coldly logical that what they present as a correction often makes no sense. So in the course of a final revision for print, for example, spell check becomes spill chick and who has time to review.

Frustrating.

That haste leads to mistakes on Planet College is not news. There may, however, be help. If you have time, and that is the tough part, take your "final" print and your tired butt to someone who is reasonably alert for a real final review. Who this might be-well- your roommate's girlfriend, one of the nice ladys who staffs the library check out desk- someone. Ask them kindly to please go over your paper to check for any obvious errors. Not to "correct" it for content or facts, simply to spot obvious errors that your weary eyes did not detect. Hopefully there will be few. Your tasks then is to make the indicated corrections and get your now nearly immaculate "final" final printed out so you can hand it in.

Remember, as with all things on Planet College, ask for help. Spill chick is not your friend.

You'll Get Mail

2010-02-12T14:53:00.000-08:00

A large part of progress on Planet College consists of communication. Most but not all of this communication is accomplished by what are now traditional electronic means, e-mail, cell phone and the rest. However the US Postal Service is still in operation and some communication is still accomplished by mail. The Planet College topic of the day is Where do you get your mail? Most student's are so mobile that for a time at least after leaving for Planet College they leave it to mom. This is a semi-effective strategy. This means when you finally get back home there is some mail for you on your bed or dresser or on the table in the hallway. You sift through the pile swiftly mainly looking for letters from relatives who still send you money for your birthday. Finding none you toss the rest. This has been the procedure so far but if your old enough to buy alcohol at the campus keg with your real id then it might be time to start getting your own mail. The question is where. The mom filing system has worked ok so far so why change? (If mom is not only filing but also opening your mail then you or she or both of you have issues that we won't deal with here.) Unless you are moving off campus to a place which will be your residence your choice is to get a mail box at one of those mailbox places. It is an additional expense which is something to consider. However, it is your life and part of the progress of, as by now you have heard so often, taking responsibilty for your life is getting your own mail.

Pass That Math Class

2010-02-11T12:22:00.000-08:00

The purpose of your education is to increase your potential earning power once you have returned to Planet Earth with your degree. Right now your pursuit of your degree is taking precedence over just about everything in your life. Your degree will be granted when you have completed the necessary course work. At this exact moment you are involved in the usual term load. This load consumes your day to day behaviors. At times the day to day of Planet College causes student to lose sight of the eventual goal. This is inevitable. Right now all you really need to do is pass your classes this term. This can be a little trickier at times than it sounds, as some of your grades from past terms have shown. By now you know some courses are harder than others.

For many students some required math classes are difficult and intimidating. You know this if you have attempt your required math course and either dropped or received an unsatisfactory grade. If you've had this experience and are this term once again attempting that required math course this is a brief outline of how you can significantly increase your chances of passing .

Attend Every Class Meeting.
That is self evident. You really need to be at every class meeting if you want to pass this class this term.

Get Help.
This term go to the math help lab. The one they always talk about at the beginning of the term. It is probably in the math building and there is help there. Bring your book, your homework and your quizzes. Develop and follow a regular schedule to use this important resource.

Save Your Quizzes.
Most lower division math courses feature daily quizzing. By now you are very familiar with this procedure. It is commonly a five or ten problem quiz at the beginning of the session. These are handed back corrected with your score. They are very useful to keep you aware of how you are doing. Take them to the math help lab when you go there for your help session.

Go With The Winners.
Students like to complain. It helps to relieve stress. Some students are very good at it and some of them are even very funny. Sitting around the student center entertaining each other about how difficult this course is and what a so-and-so that instructor is is a hallowed tradition on Planet College. This term, for this course, at least, don't do it. Do not involve yourself with any students who are complaining about their courses and especially the math course you are trying to pass. The reason is simple, subtle but simple. Your math esteem, that is your estimate of yourself as a math student, is very, very fragile. In order for you to solidly increase your chance of passing this math class associate your self with students who are seriously attempting to pass their courses, especially their math courses. This is what is meant by going with the winners.

Apply these principles steadily and consistently and your chances of passing this math course will be greatly increased.

Adding Late

2010-01-31T15:23:00.000-08:00

Did you get the course you waitlisted? Do you even know if you did? If not this is not for you.
In fact, if you really don't know which courses you've added or been added to Planet College may not be for you.

This is for those who have added late or were added late.

When did you finally get to a class meeting? If it wasn't the first or second meeting you probably have at least some make-up work to do. Possibly not an assignment but the material which has already been covered. No matter how early or late in the term you add a course, you are responsible for all of the material which relates to that course. All of it. Not just the stuff you covered in the classes you have attended.

Adding late means just that. You added late. You are still responsible for the entire course.

Shortcut To Graduation.

2010-01-31T15:13:00.000-08:00

This is a Planet College advisory about a shortcut to graduation. Your short cut to your graduation is through your next scheduled class meeting. And every class meeting for every course you are enrolled in. And every class for every course you will be enrolled in. In truth this is the only short cut to graduation. Attend every meeting of every class you are enrolled in. That is it. The short cut to your graduation is through your next scheduled class.

Classes hard to get? Be there for the final.

2010-01-20T15:01:00.000-08:00

This term on Planet College is quite a bit different than it has been in anyone's memory. Many students, fewer courses, fewer classes. This means you may be waitlisting or other wise hoping to add some required courses. When you do get that hard won course look around the first day. The room may be packed. Every desk filled and some students who don't ordinarily sit on the floor will be sitting on the floor. This is not so untypical of any first day of a term. Now there is a lot more of it.

For your personal survival file, keep a mental snapshot of this scene. Pull it out, mentally of course, and refer to it during the term. Then look around the class as it exists. Notice the difference. By mid-term nobody will be leaning against the wall and hardly anyone will be sitting on the floor, unless they want to.

This snap shot is the key to your graduation. Courses, especially required courses, are now harder than ever to get. Getting is just the beginning. Staying is the secret. That is continuing to attend; show up and turn in your work.

Back To The fafsa.

2010-01-16T13:51:00.000-08:00

Mid-year often calls for adjustments on Planet College. Moving, changing majors and even changing schools, these types of things. In order to keep up with your fast changing life on Planet College it is probably important to keep all of your forms up to date. Particularly your fafsa.
Your aid this year has been based on the information you provided winter a year ago. Just like this calendar year the deadline last year for whatever school you were intending to attend or attending was probably something like March Second. Things may have changed for you financially for this school year.
This is important.
If you are not continuing to recieve assistance that you had counted on for this year your next step might be revising your 09-10 fafsa. This is the first step before you go to your schools financial aid office seeking further help. This means for this year. Students are often unaware that when circumstances change for the current school year they may be in a position to ask for more help.

If this is true for you stop by your schools financial aid office and talk it over with an advisor.

On Planet College it pays to ask for help.

Dollars Not Just For Scholars

2010-01-04T13:34:00.000-08:00

Back on Planet College for the first term this calendar year, money is on every student's mind. Searching for funds is a necessary but exhausting pursuit. Many students feel discouraged when they believe they must have a superior GPA to qualify for funds. This is not always so. Although an outstanding GPA is not doubt helpful, however, average students can also qualify for college money. Gifts, stipends, scholarships and fellowships can be had by C students. Often the qualifications are minimal. It simply takes diligence on your part to locate and obtain money for your schooling. Keep trying, ask everyone and good luck.

Wasn't this the 13th grade?

2009-12-30T11:59:00.000-08:00

Wasn't this the 13th grade?

If you're new on Planet College it's time to review. The holidays are past. There is still some break left unless you're attending intercession. If not, look back. How did the term go? Did school meet your expectations? Did you meet the school's expectations?

If you are completely lost by these simple questions then this last term may have been the thirteenth grade for you. If it was, then there is still time for another orientation.

This one is simple. You are in college. Partying is fun, friends are great and the attendance office won't call your mom if you're not in class. In fact, there is no attendance office, no vice-pricipal and no detention either. Neat, huh? You may now choose your own behaviors and you will experience the results.

If your grades this last term were not satisfactory you may find the following information valuable. Grades, satisfactory passing grades are obtained by attending class. If this seems mysterious you may be in the thirteenth grade, with the mandatory supervision which goes along with that. But. There is no thirteenth grade. This is college, you are on your own.

Your choices now are your future. What will it be. The thirteenth grade? Or college?

Going Home.

2009-12-08T16:43:00.000-08:00

It's time, thank goodness, for most students to go home. Home from Planet College to your local version of Planet Earth. What's your style for going home? Throw your stuff in a trash bag and hop in your friend's Tacoma? However you get there when you get there you will be a little different from last time. A little older, a little more experienced possibly? Meanwhile, home may be the same as always. Home doesn't change much, at least not as fast as you have been changing. That is why there is no place like it. There is nothing so comforting as the familiar. Hopefully that is home for you.

Now, it may be that the changes which have been occurring nationwide, during the past year especially, may have changed your neighborhood too. Neighbors may have moved, their homes lost. Folks may have lost jobs. Christmas, for those who celebrate traditionally, may be reduced. Celebrations may be fewer, smaller and more sober. This is change.

On Planet Earth, back at home, as on Planet College, change happens. This year you may notice that simple fact more clearly when you get home for the holidays. Yes, change happens and not always the way we want it. However it has happened and where ever it has happened, Happy Holidays from Planet College.

Stuff Comes Up.

2009-12-01T18:44:00.000-08:00

Kayleigh was working hard to complete her first college writing course. Recently she had an important paper due. Kayleigh is still at home and attempting to complete her first semester, freshman year. The week the paper was due her boyfriend dumped her. Plop. Just like that. Then her mother told Kayleigh her dad was moving out and they were getting a divorce. Bam! No warning. With this stuff now active Kayla attempted her paper. It didn't go well and her grade was barely acceptable.

Kayla found a friend, an instructor she knew, to talk about the paper i.e. what could she have done to improve it. While talking she revealed the current details of her personal life. The instructor listened, evaluated the paper and told Kayleigh he understood her dilemma. He told her to get some help, maybe talking to friends. And he also told her that on Planet College, just like back on Planet Earth, Stuff Comes Up. Some times all at once and sometimes it all just sucks. Depending on what her priorities were, if they included passing the class and eventually graduating, she at some point was simply going to have to move forward with her own life.

This is very important. In your progress toward graduation you will see that - like for Kayleigh-
stuff comes up. Not always sucky but sometimes majorly sucky. Still. If you want to graduate, get a degree and return to Planet Earth, you and only you need to continue to march. Get what help you can, hug your dog, feed your fish or whatever, but- move forward for yourself.

When A Dream Becomes A Nightmare.

2009-11-21T12:02:00.000-08:00

Planet College presents the opportunity to turn your dream of a career in to a reality. Most students start off their college careers with very high hopes of a degree which will permanently enhance their earning power. Along the way often life stuff comes up. Relationships end. Money problems arise. Class requirements often accumulate to the point of being overwhelming. All this will be reflected in you grades and will affect your progress toward your dream. Sometimes despite a students best efforts stuff happens; Incompletes, Ds, Fs, financial aid probation, grade probation and even disqualification. Gradually, with out any loud warning, a dream turns into a nightmare.

At some schools the semester is winding down. At others the second quarter has just begun. This is a good time to assess. Is your dream becoming a nightmare? Are you loosing ground in your quest for a degree?

If some of the above seems too familiar it could be time for a candid assessment of your progress. This will include exploring the basic realities of obtaining your degree in a timely fashion.

Finding someone to discuss this with is important. It should be someone with a perspective, a little distance from you and your current situation. Planet College offers a number of resources. Program advisers, academic advisers, former professors, even roommates. Just one person, doesn't have to be associated with your school. Someone you can talk it out with.

Talk over the possibilities. Cutting your load next semester? Withdrawing completely? Are there alternatives and if so what are they? Only you can decide, but you need an outside view to make sure you are not loosing track of some useful options.

If you are, in fact, loosing ground and in danger of your dream becoming a very expensive nightmare find someone qualified who can talk it over with you.

Your future is worth this much consideration.

Get a new picture.

2009-11-14T15:12:00.000-08:00

During their time on Planet College and even before that most students have accumulated a number of picture ids. Driver's license, work ID, ASU ID. They are pretty similar; picture, name and what ever else is required usually an ID number often a birthday. A few students may still have some ID's going back to high school. Some still may have those magic little cards which featured a not quite accurate birth date, the better to facilitate social interaction of a certain kind. If you're a regular on Planet College you are probably past that. Still it could be worthwhile to take a look at the ID's you may have accumulated. Look at the picture. Have you changed much since it was taken? Probably a lot. This is the purpose of this post. Do you still need those old ID's? Well driver's license, sure. ASB card, definitely. Bankcard with the picture, of course. But. Overall are you still that person? Probably not. If you are still acting like the person in that picture, ask yourself," Is it time for a change?" Is it time for a new picture? Not just on the IDs but of who you are in life. Right now. On Planet College Growth happens, often for the better, certainly for the different.

Why not get a new picture?

Turkey trap, repost.

2009-11-06T12:04:00.000-08:00

This is a re-post from a couple of years ago. It is still true and it will always be true.
The Turkey Trap.
The work load for most students on Planet College accumulates during the course of the term. Papers, projects, portfolios all pile up with due dates, at least at the time of the assignment, seemingly distant. Many students defer working on one or more of these with an optimistic, "I'll do it over break." Break comes, usually Thanksgiving or Spring, a good time is had by all. On the returning journey back to campus many students awaken from a pleasant mid-flight snooze with the sudden awareness,"Oh. My. God. I've got a paper due for my ten o'clock class and I haven't even started it." Sound familiar? Probably. I call this The Turkey Trap. Don't fall for it. If you're an average student, next time you hear your self say, "Oh, I'll do it over break." Get real. You will not. That is what break is for. A time out. Kick back. Party. School? Fugggaadddaboutit. Take a break.

And about the paper. Do what so many busy students will do: Ask for an extension.

Planet College advisory: "Where two or more are gathered. . .".

2009-10-15T15:35:00.000-07:00

Right now, for those classes which require them, special class presentations are nearing their due date. Most of these presentations involve only one class member per presentation. At times, however, students are required to work in small groups. These groups contain three to five class members. Usually, when this is part of the assignment, groups are given time to work together during class while preparing their presentation. This Planet College advisory has to do with a time honored fact of group class presentations. It goes like this, " Where more than two are gathered someone will bail." If you've been around the campus for a while you probably understand this. Groups are formed and assignments given early in the term. The group meets sometimes during class and sometimes out side of class. This is to work on presenting the assigned topic. Getting busy young adults together at the same time for something other than a party is quite a feat. Often, though, the group will proceed successfully. That is until the day of the presentation. Then, on the day of the presentation, someone will fail to show up. It is so inevitable that it is nearly a rule. The reasons are varied and often legitimate. But. Still. If you've done your part what are you to do? OK, here's a hint. If you are in such a group, first of all, expect someone to bail. That is it. Just don't be the person who does. No matter what, show up for the presentation and be fully prepared. To protect your self along the way keep a record of everything you have done for the project both inside and out of class. Then. When whoever doesn't show up, you and those who did show up can present as much as you can. Your record of your efforts and your contribution should be enough for the instructor to issue you an appropriate grade. Good Luck.

Take a look around.

2009-10-03T11:44:00.000-07:00

By this time on Planet College your work order for most classes is pretty well established. Special projects have been assigned, small groups are now established and even mid-terms are looming. ( No, not mid-terms. Yes, mid-terms) At this point it is a good time to take a look around your classes. Just pick one. Remember the first day? Every desk was full and there were students standing along the walls hoping to add. Where are those students now? Well, maybe they couldn't fit the class into their schedule. Who knows. But. They are not there. They are not in your class. So they have no hope of passing this class. You now are in the class. Every meeting? Well mostly. And this simple fact is the key to your eventual graduation. Attend. Attend and participate. Attend and participate and contribute. Repeat until graduation.

It's a whole new world on Planet College.

2009-09-26T14:38:00.001-07:00

If you are new this term on Planet College you have probably observed by now that there are basically very few rules. You can, if you like, get up and go to class or skip it and sleep in. You can eat or not eat. Study or party. Play nine ball till the campus center closes and ,well, just rock on. This is your choice. You, like many, many student's before are discovering what is called autonomy. Basically beyond the minimums no one is watching and no one else really cares whether you go to class or not. This is exhilarating and scary. Your future is now in your hands. What you do is simply up to you. Some students handle this well and others not so well. You may recall what seems like eons ago when you first stepped on to your high school campus. It was a much bigger world than you had experienced. Now, look out the window during one of your afternoon classes. What do you see? A much, much bigger world than you had previously known. You don't have to be The Little Mermaid to burst out singing, "It's A Whole New World." Don't. But consider. You are here now in a large and significant place. Your choices now will affect you potentially for the rest of your life. Planet College is a whole new world. Persist and do well.

This term: Do what the instructor says.

2009-09-14T15:06:00.001-07:00

A few weeks back on Planet College you've probably settled in to the typical routine. What ever your typical routine has been. This term try something new. Ready? Do what the instructor says. This is going to require paying some attention. This itself may be new. In order to do what the instructor says you will have to listen, ask and even read. And. Actually follow the directions given. If the instructor has said, " This paper is due next Thursday". Turn the paper in next Thursday. Stuff like that. It requires application. It requires persistence. This is college, remember? In college, in order to get out you have to get through. And in order to get through-this term- do what the instructor says.

Planet College Reminder: Grad Check.

2009-08-22T14:37:00.000-07:00

Returning to campus is another opportunity to assure you are closing in on graduation. Right now before your schedule gets crammed is a good time to determine how close you are to graduation.

If you already have a major your department office is a good place to find out what you still need to finish your degree. After that your campus's administration building probably has an office that could help. It is usually the registration. One helpful tactic is to go to that office or the graduation office if there is one and file the forms necessary for graduation. There is usually a fee for this but the results can be helpful. The results will show up in the form of a printout with what you have completed and hopefully what you need to do to complete all of the requirements for graduation. If you get it soon you can plan this year effectively and maybe get back to Earth with your degree next year.

If you don't have a major it is likely you need to declare something before you can graduate. If you've been around the campus for a while it is time to start actually doing something about finding and pursuing a major. This is your next step toward graduation.

Remember on Planet College graduation starts today.

Planet College Recognition: Mike Did It Right.

2009-08-15T14:42:00.001-07:00

On Planet College opportunity is found where ever. Just before graduation with a BA in Psychology Mike applied for a program, a certificate in School Psychology. The program was at a university in another state. Because of the lateness of his application he was informed he was on a wait list. In the middle of August Mike received notice that he had been admitted to the program. The school was several hundred miles away in another state. Mike packed up his car and drove to his new school. Once there, with no accommodations, he, for a few days slept in his car and showered in the school gym. He was a late add for most of his courses but he did start his program with a full load. Meanwhile he found employment as a part-time counselor on the campus and a room mate from one of his classes. Because he had filed his fafsa as usual that year his financial aid was available within a few weeks of the new term. This was helpful because among other things the out of state fees for Mike'd new University were pretty hefty and Mike needed all the help he could get. During his second semester Mike found a temporary position as a school counselor through a referral from his Department's office. Mike completed his certificate that school year and his temporary position turned into a permanent School Psychologist position at the same school.

With quite a bit of experience on Planet College Mike was able to move forward in his chosen career by basically doing everything right. He moved as soon as he was admitted. He added the courses he could when he could. He found a room mate and a job on campus. Because he had a fafsa in place, updated, his financial aid came through soon after classes started.

This is an example of a student who, through continuous application and persistence, was able to move forward into a chosen career fairly promptly. Mike simply had the experience of having been on Planet College for a typical student career. Because Mike knew the basic moves he was able to use this experience and now has what is for him a worth while job on Planet Earth.

You can do this too. If you've been on Planet College for a while you can trust your own experience to move on. Get through school and back to Earth with a real job. Start looking now. Where do you want to work? And what do you have to do to get there.

Doug Carried Lisa Through Graduation

2009-08-04T17:18:00.000-07:00

On Planet College stuff happens on the road to any student's degree. While enrolled part-time and workin Doug learned he was to become a parent. Obligations like family demand a lot so Doug left school to work full-time. When his daughter, Lisa, was born Doug decided that someday, no matter what, he would finish his degree. Holding his tiny newborn in his arms Doug imagined himself carrying Lisa through the University's graduation ceremony. When time allowed Doug re-enrolled and started back on the road to graduation. Like most students stuff happened and the road became longer. Doug finished what courses he could but the road became longer, much longer than he had forseen. All the time Doug held the image of carrying Lisa through the ceremony. Eventually Doug did graduate. And when he did Lisa was nine. Still Doug did carry Lisa through the ceremony. When his name was called Doug had asked the graduation announcer to include "and Lisa" in the announcement. Doug proudly walked across the stage, his daughter's pretty red dress and matching red hair ribbons contrasting with Doug's flowing blue graduation gown. Doug received his diploma and shook hands with the President and the Dean. So did Lisa. Everyone beamed. It had been a long road but in that moment Doug knew it was all worth it.

How about you? Have you got somebody you'd like to carry, figuratively if not literally through your graduation ceremony? Perhaps the thought of someone who is very special to you can be an inspiration over the long, long road that Planet College often becomes. When you feel discouraged think of them. Or think of Doug and Lisa. They made it. And so can you.

Dorm Norms

2009-07-29T11:58:00.000-07:00

Of all of the peculiar situations encountered on Planet College most veteran students will agree there is nothing quite so peculiar as dorm life. Since you've been on campus for a while by now you've probably noticed that the housing office has an uncanny knack for pairing opposites when it comes to room assignments. I'm sure you recall your first roommate. How could you forget? If you were tidy they were an unbelievable slob. If you're idea of kicking back was herb tea and Sibelius theirs was a Fourty and Fifty Cent at max volume. If you preferred sleeping all night they spent the wee hours arranging hook-ups real or imagined or worse yet talking to mom.

You adjusted and all of that is past. At this point campus housing may be the best deal going. You don't have to worry about getting to campus, for the most part meals are provided and everyone else in your building is also a student. Maybe not a regular class attendee but still a student.

While you have adjusted to these peculiarities you may need to be reminded that since you are paying you do have a right to what is called "peaceable habitation. " Now, in a environment where watching a flaming sofa drop past your dorm room window is no big deal, peaceable habitation has a way different connotation. But the basics still apply. Only you can say when your generous and tolerant boundaries have been crossed. If your campus living situation interferes significantly with the reason you are there, to be a student, you need to be aware that have choices.

When your campus housing situation becomes more than even you can tolerate there are some essentials which you need to follow through on. Basically they are: talking with your suite mates, talking to the RA, and finally talking to the housing office. If these tactics are ineffective you may wish to simply leave.

If leaving campus housing during the term is your choice you may choose to apply for a re-fund of the remaining balance on your account. Be advised though that, except in the case of an extreme emergency*, housing offices are notoriously reluctant to refund a student's housing fee. So this could take some doing. Essentially, you will have to document in writing why the housing situation is wholly inappropriate. You will also need to show that you have taken all of the recommended steps to adjust and adjust to the situation. You will have to submit this to the housing office and then await an answer. This may take some time. Do not expect a speedy reply and don't expect an affirmative answer. As stated earlier housing offices really don't like to do refunds. So all you can do is try.

So, if you find that you have been sleeping on your friend's aunt's couch rather than go back to your dorm and someone else is using your meal card and you don't care, it may be time to leave campus housing. As with all other campus actions and activities follow the recommended procedures, consider carefully the consequences and move on with your life.

*Extreme emergency is usually defined as an unavoidable situation for example medical condition or family emergency such as a death or other change in the student's ability to continue to occupy the housing assignment. These are very, very rare.

Do you really need your car this term?

2009-07-23T16:54:00.000-07:00

Most students on Planet College will be heading back to campus soon. Some will fly. Some will catch a ride with a friend and some will take the bus across town. Many will drive. This post is about just what it says. Do you really need your car this term?

For most students the recession or The Recession, which ever you prefer, is hardly news. Living in pretty nearly a permanent economic drought is something students on Planet College deal with annually. This is why it might be time to consider: Do You Really Need Your Car back at school?

The expenses are obvious, gas, insurance, parking fees, maintenance, etc. They occur daily and they add up. The benefits are clear. Your car offers valuable personal opportunities. As evidence of autonomy and symbols of personal expression cars are unsurpassed. You can drive to The Summit to ski next weekend and you can drive to Padre Island next break. You can pick up friends at the airport and chauffeur most of your crew to a concert.

Benefits vs. liabilities. Ultimately it costs you money. Without your car you would depend on public transportation, your bicycle and friends. You would still be spending money but probably not in such volume.

So, once again, Planet College is about choices: Do you really need your car this term?

Friends, The best thing about Planet College.

2009-07-22T16:01:00.000-07:00

The best thing about Planet College is the friends you make while your there. If this seems debatable try this test. Find some one who has been out of school a few years. Five years is good even more, maybe ten. Ask that person what their major was. They may know immediately but it may take a few seconds for them to remember. Ask them what school they actually got their degree from. Again, it may take a few seconds for them to remember which college actually, finally, granted them their degree. Then ask them who their friends were in school. I bet they will tell you right away. What does that tell you? The best thing about college is the friends you make.

Bankruptcy.

2009-07-13T15:47:00.000-07:00

This is not a site for legal advice. However because now Bankruptcy has become a serious consideration for student's who maybe mired in debt. The term itself evolved from a time when trading was done by individuals who traded in various items including currency. In the Merchant of Venice, the antagonist, Shylock is a trader. In that drama the gathering place for traders is The Rialto. Trader's in this setting traditionally sat on benches. When a trader went broke he literally smashed his bench. Breaking the bench became the term "bankruptcy". This term evolved to mean going broke and being unable to pay debts.
The legal process now termed "Bankruptcy" is held in a Federal Jurisdiction. The procedure is called a filing and there are several steps involved. Initially the person who is filing must choose which type of bankruptcy they will be filing. This person is called the petitioner. This person obtains the appropriate forms from their local Federal courthouse. The petitioner fills out the forms and returns them to the court with a fee. This fee is for filing. The paperwork is a list of the petitioner's, now termed "debtors" assets and a list of those individuals and institutions to whom money is owed. These are termed creditor's. The court may then notify all of the petitioner's creditors that this individual is filing a Bankruptcy petition. This process can take several months. Eventually the petitioner/debtor will appear before a judge who will examine this petitioner. This judge may ask the debtor as many questions as he or she feels appropriate about the petitioner. The judge may then choose to allow, deny or stay the petition.

The process of filing can often be difficult for students who chose to do so. It is wise to get some legal assistance during the process. Legal assistance usually costs money but often there are clinics and even individuals with legal experience who will donate some time to examine the paperwork. This is important because it is a legal proceeding and everything depends on the paperwork being in order.

Also, though, there is a sizable emotional component to a personal bankruptcy filing. Although the number of bankruptcy filings have increased recently still it is personally extremely distressing. Often feelings of shame and failure accompany this act and it is wise and useful for a student who has chosen bankruptcy to get some emotional support. Emotional support can be found at the campus health center, local support groups, spiritual organizations and other traditional sources of support. Planet College recommends getting every type of help, assistance and support necessary during this time.