Author: Joel

Top 5 Personal Finance Books Every College Or University Student Should Read

Need some help with your budgeting skills during school? Check out the best personal finance books for students!

Ask anyone who’s been there, and they’ll surely tell you that balancing your bank accounts while in college or university can be quite the challenge.

On average, most entry-level student jobs only pay around $7 to $10 per hour in the US.

And with such a low average entry-level wage, it’s often hard for students to make ends meet.

Below, we’re diving into our list of the absolute best personal finance or money management books that every student should ready.

You’ll find money-saving and investment tips, help with your budget, and more!

Broke Millennial By Erin Lowry

As a Millennial student, you must take control of your money as early as possible. Especially if you want to obtain financial independence in the future.

And that’s precisely what Erin Lowry sets out to help you with within her personal finance book, Broke Millennial.

In the book, you’ll learn how to gain control over your finances and create a monthly budget.

You’ll also learn a great deal about investing your money wisely, planning for your financial future, and how to avoid high-interest credit card debt.

Don’t let yourself fall into the same fiscal traps and pitfalls that so many people in their 20s and early 30s have.

Check out Broke Millennial and start planning your financial future today!

Using fun Millennial language and humour, Broke Millennial is a worthwhile read for any student struggling with their financial health.

Why Didn’t They Teach Me This In School? By Cary Siegel

Ask any college or university graduate what they wished they’d learn more about during their time in school. They’ll often tell you it’s money and how to handle it correctly!

In Why Didn’t They Teach Me This In School?, Cary Siegel, retired business executive, takes you through 99 financial principles that you’ll be glad to learn.

He’ll also explain eight innovative money lessons he claims should be teaching students before they get into college or university.

Initially, Siegel had written the book to help his children with their finances.

But, the book eventually got so many positive reviews that it’s now made its way onto countless bookshelves of students who need help with money.

Packed full of money lessons, advice, and first-hand lessons for a retired business professional is a must-read!

Why Didn’t They Teach Me This In School is an excellent, easy-to-read book, ideal for anyone wanting to get their finances on the right track.

Your Money Or Your Life By Vicki Robin And Joe Dominguez

For more than two decades, Your Money Or Your Life has been a best-selling personal finance book for college and university students.

In the book, authors Vicki Robin And Joe Dominguez detail a total of nine simple yet highly effective steps you can take today to achieve financial independence in the future.

Your Money Or Your Life is filled with information on how you can avoid falling into un-payable debt.

And how to incorporate intelligent financial habits into your life without restricting your budget too much!

As a fantastic bonus, the book also takes a more eco-friendly approach to personal finance. It’ll discuss how good fiscal habits can reduce waste and help protect the environment.

The Total Money Makeover By Dave Ramsey

Are you struggling with high-interest credit card debt or student loans?

If so, then The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey is most certainly worth checking out!

As a New York Times best-seller, this book will eloquently explain how to get yourself out of debt and improve your overall financial health.

Filled with many solid pieces of financial advice, you’ll learn how to avoid financial pitfalls like cash advances, rent-to-own schemes, and using unnecessary credit.

Lastly, Ramsey will also explain his famous “Snowball Method” to help you pay off debt quickly. And how to save for retirement, and how to start an emergency fund.

I Will Teach You To Be Rich By Ramit Sethi

Whether you’re in your first year, second year or you’ve already graduated, paying off debt is hard.

Student lines of credit, loans, and other types of debt are often some of the biggest financial roadblocks you’ll ever face.

In his book I Will Teach You To Be Rich, Ramit Sethi takes you through some of the best advice for getting ahead with your finances.

You’ll also find a wide range of helpful advice about student finances. Including scripts you can use to save money by getting yourself out of paying late fees for missed payments.

Sethi also provides his readers with a range of simple yet effective advice for investing, buying your first home, and making other large purchases.

The Best Personal Finance Books For Students

In the end, your financial health is almost just as important as your physical and mental health.

That’s why it’s crucial to gain control over your money as soon as possible.

This way, you’ll avoid making the most common money mistakes students make and learn how to invest in your financial future!

September 20, 2021
The Worst Money Mistakes Students Make In 2021

Are you tired of making the same money mistakes as everyone else? Want to avoid the most common pitfalls students fall into every day?

As a student, there’s no doubt that you’ve at least heard of the stereotypical starving student.

You know, the student who eats nothing but Ramen noodles for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And, who only earns enough just money to pay their bills, without their work life having a negative impact on their studies.

Unfortunately, this stereotype is all-too-common among college and university students.

No matter how you look at it, it can be challenging to balance your school work with financial responsibility. Especially when you’re first starting out in college or university,

And that’s why we thought it’d be a great idea to create the following blog post on the top 5 worst money mistakes students make every semester.

Keep reading, and below, we explore what you should avoid doing with your money while you’re in college or university.

Eating Out Too Often

Restaurants are a great place to gather with family, friends, and loved ones.

Plus, they’re convenient, which makes them powerfully alluring, especially for students with their already-busy schedules.

However, restaurants are also expensive.

To illustrate how expensive it can be to eat at a restaurant, consider this:

The average at-home meal only costs you about $4 or $5 in groceries, and you usually still end up with leftovers.

On the other hand, a meal at a restaurant, on average, costs about $14, which is a staggering 325% more expensive than your $4 meal at home.

Plus, there’s also the expectation that you should tip your server when dining at a restaurant.

This only adds to the amount of money you’re wasting.

Instead of wasting your money at restaurants, it’s a better idea to hit up your local library.

Or browse a book store and find a few cookbooks that seem interesting.

Get creative, try new foods, and in no time, you’ll learn to appreciate that eating at restaurants isn’t all as cracked up as it’s thought to be.

Ordering Take Out Too Often

With the handful of food delivery apps on the market today, it’s easier than ever to order your next meal. This saves you both time and effort during your already-hectic school weeks.

But, just like eating at restaurants, ordering take out food is expensive and overpriced.

Plus, you’re also expected to add a tip or gratuity to your delivery person, adding to the overpriced cost of take out.

Whether you dine in or order take out, restaurant food is ALWAYS going to cost you more than a visit to the grocery store.

And most times, what you order will only feed you for a single meal.

Therefore, instead of opening Uber Eats and ordering delivery from the restaurant up the street, it’s a better idea to spend that money on food from the grocery store.

Drinking Alcohol And Partying

Just because you’re studying in college or university doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t go out and have fun with your friends.

However, it does mean that you should keep a watchful eye on how much you’re spending on alcohol, marijuana (if it’s legal where you live), and going out at night.

Especially if you’re going to a local bar or club! Understand that these places serve food and drinks to make a profit.

Meaning that they are considerably more expensive than if you were to buy and consume these things at home.

Don’t deny yourself the ability to go out and have fun. But do make sure you’re not spending more money than you can afford.

Whether you’re going to the campus pub to meet with friends, family, or a steamy blind date, your money can truly be spent better elsewhere.

High-Interest Credit Cards

As soon as you came of age, you were probably offered a credit card.

Usually from your bank explaining that it will help build your credit score for the future.

Of course, using a credit card and paying it off immediately is a great way to help build your credit score and access more credit in the future.

However, using credit can also be a slippery slope.

So always remember that it’s easy to spend your credit, but much harder to pay it back!

Especially when you’re dealing with credit cards that have interest rates ranging anywhere from 19% to 30% or more!

Of course, having credit available is a good idea in case of emergencies.

But if you need to use credit, it’s much more financial responsible to look into a student line of credit. Or, even a personal loan, which will usually have a much lower interest rate.

Not Saving Or Investing For The Future

Finally, another of the biggest mistakes students make is simply spending too much and not putting anything aside for the future.

Whether you’re in your first year of post-secondary or your last year, it’s vital that you start saving your money.

You might want to consider investing your money in stocks, bonds, or mutual funds.

Or, in the very least, start putting some money aside that you’ll allow yourself to touch for emergencies or once you’re graduated.

The Worst Money Mistakes For College And University Students

Of course, there are many other things that you can waste your money on foolishly.

However, eating overpriced food, drinking too much, using high interest credit, and not saving for the future are some of the most common expenses that are considered as wasteful.

It might be hard to keep a watchful eye on your finances, especially when you’re busy with school.

But, if you start taking control of your money now, I promise, you’ll thank yourself later!

September 5, 2021
Top 6 Motivational Books for Students
Looking for some great motivational books for students? Check out this month’s featured list and get yourself in gear for this upcoming semester.

Being a student is a time of great opportunity, one when you’ll be learning at a faster rate than ever before.

If you want to get the most out of this prosperous time, then you might want to consider turning to some motivational books to help you keep up in your rapidly changing world of education.

Below, we’ll take you through the top 6 motivational books for students.

This way, you can get mentally and spiritually ready for your next semester.

Best 6 Motivational Books

Although there are hundreds, if not thousands of motivational books out there today, we’ve narrowed down a few of the absolute books that stand out as being truly inspirational and motivational for students.

Let’s jump in!

Never Eat Alone By Keith Ferrazzi

This motivational read explores how good networking skills and being connected to others can pave the way to success.

In Never Eat Alone, Ferrazzi explains how building good relationships with people sets hugely successful people apart from everyone else.

Ferrazzi takes readers through the specific steps to take, plus the mental state you should obtain to connect with as many people as possible.

Then he shows us how to use these connections for unanimous success — for both you and your network.

At college, you have the unique opportunity to meet hundreds of people daily.

If you want to turn all this socializing into future business success, pick up a copy of Never Eat Alone and see where it takes you.

Deep Work: Rules For Focused Success In A Distracted World By Cal Newport

If you’re partial to distraction and often find yourself procrastinating, then this motivational book is definitely for you.

The term “deep work” refers to the ability to focus intently on a challenging task without getting distracted.

Obtaining a deep work state means learning quickly and becoming more adept at specific skills over time. It will also make you far better at what you do, whether playing the piano or simply reading.

Sadly, most of us aren’t accustomed to obtaining this deep work state — and tech and social media aren’t helping.

In her book, Cal Newport shows us how to tune out distractions and describes the four rules for regaining the ability to achieve deep focus.

As a student, you can benefit from learning how to defeat distraction and get your work and study done to the best of your ability.

For that reason, it’s well worth getting your hands on Cal Newport’s extraordinarily motivating book.

The Power Of Positive Thinking by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale

This motivational classic has sold over 15 million copies, and it’s not hard to see why.

In The Power Of Positive Thinking, Dr. Norman Vincent Peale conveys a powerful message about achieving fulfillment and finding inspiration.

He does this by taking readers through the concept of faith and how it can be utilized to re-energize your life and assist you in achieving your dreams and ambitions.

If personal contentment is on your to-do list for next semester, then make sure you check out this inspiring motivational read ahead of the new school year.

The Alchemist By Paulo Coelho

While this list mainly comprises non-fiction works, it would be a sin not to include Paul Coelho’s seminal work of fiction.

The Alchemist, initially written in Portuguese, is a life-changing book and widely considered a modern classic.

Coelho’s sublime novel follows Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy with a curious heart, destined for a life of nomadic travel.

The book deals with the idea of destiny, about following your instincts and learning to read the world around you. It can no doubt offer you a world of inspiration for your upcoming return to study.

The Four Agreements By Don Miguel Ruiz

In this self-help classic, author Miguel Ruiz demonstrates how self-doubt can be crippling and lead to an unfulfilled life.

Drawing on ancient Toltec ideology, The Four Agreements reveals how we can transform our outlook on both ourselves and the world around us — and, in doing so, achieve greater happiness and success.

If you’re wondering what the four agreements he’s referring to might be, here’s a concise summary of each:
1. Be true to your word
2. Don’t take things too personally.
3. Never make assumptions.
4. Always do your absolute best
Why not try them out and see if your college experience improves?

The Art Of Happiness By Dalai Lama

There’s no denying the constant and eternal happiness of the Dalai Lama. He usually appears spiritually fulfilled and emotionally uplifted despite the perils of his country.

So what’s his secret?

According to The Art Of Happiness, achieving bliss and relinquishing your woes is a complete possibility.

With the help of a psychiatrist, he reveals how every ordinary citizen can work towards obtaining happiness.

If you often find yourself stressed and a little overwhelmed, this pioneering psychology book can be a real help in finding contentment amidst the madness of college life.
August 20, 2021
Back To School: Moving Day Tips And Checklist
Getting ready for back to school? Make sure to check out this week’s featured blog on back to school moving day tips and preparation checklists.

As summer draws to a close, you’ll need to start thinking about back-to-school preparations.

However, as much as you’ve enjoyed your time off away from campus, it can be a daunting prospect thinking about getting organized on your return.

Here are some tips ahead of moving day, as well as a checklist to ensure you’ve got everything you need.

Top Tips For Moving Day

Whether you’re getting ready to move out of town for school, or maybe you’re just moving across town into a dorm with your friends, be sure to set aside some time to get yourself ready for September!

Purchase School Supplies

No matter your degree subject, you’ll likely have a required reading and equipment list for the semester.

It’s a good idea to go out and buy as much of this as you can before you get back to class. This way, you’ll be as prepared as possible for the semester ahead.

Many professors stipulate that they want you to have gotten to grips with the reading material before you start class, so make sure you buy your books early so you can have them ready before you arrive back on campus.

It’s not just books you’ll need; you should also consider what materials and equipment you’ll be required to bring.

Below is a checklist to give you a guide of what you’ll need to buy.
- Textbooks/journals
- Binders/folders
- Laptop
- Stationary (pens, pencils, highlighters, erasers)
- A planner or agenda
Of course, this is just a rough guide, and depending on your course, you’ll need to supplement with your specific course requirements.

If you study maths, for example, you’ll likely need a whole lot more stationary (calculators, compasses, rulers etc.).

Check with your college or university for a detailed guide of what you should bring for your first week.

Wardrobe

This might seem a little obvious, but giving your wardrobe a little thought can help the semester go more smoothly.

For instance, if you’re embarking on any internships, you’ll want to have some professional clothing at the ready. If you’re invited to a formal occasion on campus, you’ll want to have something a little fancier at your disposal.

Equally, you’ll need to plan around the season and the climate of your school.

If you’re in California, with its warmer climate, then you don’t have to worry about heavy-duty boots and thick coats.

However, if you’re in Maine, these things are a must for the colder months ahead.

If you play for a sports team, you should also check what kit you’ll need to get hold of for training and competing.

Here’s a quick checklist to use as a guide:
- Clothes for class
- Professional/business clothing
- Sports clothing
- Casual clothing
- Formal attire
- Comfy campus shoes
Workspace Equipment

Even if you plan on doing most of your studying at the library, you’ll need to set up a dorm workspace.

This will keep your work organized as well as give you somewhere for those late-night study sessions.

To create an effective work environment, you’ll probably need to get some furniture.

A desk and office chair is the most basic set-up.

You might also want to get other stuff for extra comforts, like a lamp, bookcase, or filing cabinet.

If you’re short on space, you’ll need to get smaller furniture items, even foldable items that can easily be stored away when you’re not using them.

Here’s a quick list of essential workspace items:
- Desk and Comfortable Chair
- Lamp
- Filing cabinets
- Bookcase
- White Board
- Calendar
Think About Transportation

Even if you’re living on campus, you’ll still need to think about how you’re going to get around.

When it comes to getting to class, going on foot or a bike is healthy and cheap.

As for getting out around town, bringing your car might seem like the easiest option. But it can get expensive quickly, and for some, driving isn’t an option.

So make sure to check out the public transport services around campus and assess whether they’re a good option for you.

Checklist:
- Campus shuttle timetable
- Local bus timetable
- Bicycle/scooter/skateboard
- Parking permit (if you bring your car)
Making The Most Of Your Summer

College or university are all-around great experiences, but they can also be full-on stressful at times.

For this reason, it’s a great idea to unwind and enjoy your vacation as much as possible while it lasts.

You’ll be grateful for the experiences once you’re back stuck at your desk studying.

However, as well as fun and relaxation, this time off from study can be an excellent opportunity to get some other stuff done.

If you want to get ahead financially for the coming semester, you could also look into getting a summer job.

This looks good on your CV, and the extra money will be a real help once you’re back at college.

If you’re keen to make yourself as employable as possible, you could also check out internship and work experience opportunities.

Here are some other things you can do while you’re away from school for the summer:
- Refresh your resume
- Check out jobs and internship opportunities
- Take the time to travel
- Visit friends and family
Getting Back To School

There you have it, a comprehensive list of things to start buying and packing ahead of the start of the next school year.

Ensure you check out your university website to double-check exactly what you’ll need for your specific course!

And, in the meantime, spend as much time with friends and family as you can, get out on day trips, travel and have fun!
August 5, 2021
3 Best Russian Authors Of All Time
Are you interested in learning about some of the most influential authors of all time? Below, we review 3 of the best Russian authors, as well as their works that have influenced the world of literature.

Did you know that some of the most famous people who have influenced the literature we read today include Russian authors from the 19th and early 18th century?

It’s true!

Many Russian authors have helped to shape the way we write novels, short stories, plays, and more.

Below, we review 3 of the most famous Russian authors worth checking out due to their influence on modern literature.

Franz Kafka

Franz Kafka was born in Prague, to an upper-middle-class Jewish family.

He attended the University of Prague where he graduated with a Law Degree.

Kafka contracted tuberculosis and retired in 1922.

He and his wife moved to Vienna to seek treatment but unfortunately, he succumbed to the disease two years later in 1924.

Kafka’s Work

Kafka wrote and published many of his works throughout his life despite the severity of his illness.

These works include:
- The Metamorphosis
- Mediation (a collection of short stories)
- Before the Law
- The Judgement
- In the Penal Colony
- A Country Doctor
- A Hunger Artist
See Franz Kafka: The Complete Stories to learn more about his works.

It is thanks to Kafka’s friend, Max Brod that we know of Kafka’s writing today.

Kafka instructed Brod to destroy his unpublished manuscripts after his death.

Brod did not and today, these works are some of the most influential pieces of literature of all time. They include:
- The Trial
- The Castle
- Amerika
- The Great Wall of China
Themes & Symbolism

One of the reasons why Kafka is so well known is that his writing resonated with readers suffering from oppression. In fact, his work coined the term, Kafkaesque.

According to the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, Kafkaesque is, “used to describe a situation that is confusing and frightening, especially one involving complicated official rules and systems that do not seem to make any sense.”

Anton Chekhov

Considered to be one of the greatest short fiction writers in history, Anton Chekhov was born in Taganrog, Russia in 1860.

He became a doctor, practiced medicine, and wrote until 1887 (due to ill health). He saw great success as a playwright in 1896 with the reception of his play, The Seagull.

As he became more famous, Chekhov began to alter the form of the short story. Many of these innovative techniques have since changed the way short stories are written today.

One of these elements of fiction or drama includes Chekhov’s Gun.

It’s a term that describes how the narrative should only include the necessary elements. Everything else should be deleted or removed.

Chekhov’s Work

Chekov is best known as a playwright.

During his lifetime he wrote 14 plays, 4 of which are still well known today. These plays include,
- The Seagull
- The Cherry Orchard
- Three Sisters
- Uncle Vanya
Chekov was also a prolific short story writer. With 201 short stories including,
- The Darling
- In the Ravine
- The Boys
- Sleepy
- Ward No. 6
- A Joke
Themes & Symbolism

In his plays, Chekhov explores themes like frustration, freedom, and disappointment.

Much of his work tends to focus on a character’s social-economic standing. Through this theme, Chekov also explores the meaning of life.

He is best known for the fine line his writing walks between tragedy and comedy.

Leo Tolstoy

Born in Yasnaya Polyana, Russia, Count Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy (Leo Tolstoy) became one of the greatest authors of all time.

Why?

Well, he won the Nobel Prize in Literature from 1902 – 1906. He also won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1901, 1902, and 1909.

Tolstoy was born to an aristocratic family. In his twenties, he saw success with his trilogy, Childhood, Boyhood, and Youth. He also achieved success writing about his experience in the Crimean War with Sevastopol Sketches.

In addition to realistic fiction novels, Tolstoy wrote several novellas, short stories, philosophical essays, and plays.

Tolstoy’s Work

You’ve likely heard of at least one of Tolstoy’s novels, many of them have since been adapted into film. Some of his most famous work includes,
- War and Peace
- Anna Karenina
- Resurrection
- A Confession
- What I Believe
- The Cossacks
Themes & Symbolism

Tolstoy is the pioneer and master of realist fiction.

His work has had an incredible impact on socialist thinkers of the past and present. In much of his early work, his view of government defined this view in that it was filled with corruption and violence.

Tolstoy’s belief in subsistence agriculture also appeared in his work. This theme demonstrated his desire for a simpler economy.

Best Russian Authors To Read This Summer

Although we’ve only covered 3 of the most famous Russians in the world of literature, there are dozens of Russian authors worth checking out this spring and summer, including:
- Vladimir Nabokov
- Fyodor Dostoevsky
- Alexander Pushkin
- Nikolai Gogol
- Mikhail Bulgakov
- And more!
Dive into their works for a deeper understanding of human nature, internal conflict, and the hardships of life in Russian during the 18th and 19th centuries!
July 20, 2021
The Best Resume And Cover Letter Writing Tips 2021

Looking for some resume and cover letter tips to help you land that next job? Below, we explore all you need to know about writing the best, most engaging, and eye-catching resume imaginable!

A customized resume is a great tactic to boost your chances of getting your dream job, with 61% of hiring managers saying they are more likely to consider a personalized resume.

Attaching a cover letter also boosts your chances of getting a job considerably, by 49%, to be precise.

Below, we explore some great tips and tricks for writing a resume and a cover letter that will wow those who read it.

What Is A Resume?

A resume, also referred to as a CV, is a marketing document that you use to offer yourself to prospective employers.

It should include details about you, your professional past, and your skills, abilities, and achievements.

Finally, it should illustrate why you are the most qualified candidate for the job.

A resume is required when applying for a job. Employers may additionally want a cover letter and a completed application form in addition to your resume.

However, the resume is the most basic requirement for most job applications.

In other words, your resume is crucial when it comes to job seeking.

If you get it right, you’ll have an interview in no time; if you do it incorrectly, you’ll get rejection after rejection.

Every resume is unique because you want to demonstrate why your set of abilities qualifies you for the job you’re applying for at the time, but they all follow a similar format.

What Should I Include In My Resume?

While a CV’s layout is adaptable to your specific skill set and experiences, there are certain areas that employers expect to see regardless.

Professional Title, Contact Details And Name

The first portion of your CV, which should be at the top of the page, should include your professional title, name and contact information.

Your contact information, email address, and phone number(s) are crucial when it comes to your contact information.

It was once common to put your complete address on your CV. But today, the minimum requirement is your town/city and county.

Your Profile

One of the essential elements of your resume is your personal profile.

This is a brief paragraph that appears right beneath your name and contact information and gives possible employers an idea of who you are and what you’re all about.

Every job you apply for should be tailored to your profile, with specific qualities that fit you to the role highlighted.

Just make sure to keep your statement as brief as possible, and no more than a few sentences.

Experience And Employment History

In the next section, you can write about internships, volunteering, charity work and former jobs in the employment history area.

Basically, you’ll want to highlight any experiences that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Because your most recent role is the most relevant to the employer, list your experience in reverse chronological order.

List your job title, employer, the dates you worked, and summarize your responsibilities for each position.

Then, to support each claim, demonstrate the result of the experience by using bullet points for essential duties, abilities, and accomplishments, and reinforce each claim using powerful verbs and numbers.

What Is A Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a typed or written document that is sent along with your resume.

It differs from a resume or CV in that, rather than being a written review of your talents and experience, it’s created expressly for the job you’re going for.

This allows you to highlight specific areas you believe would make you a good fit for the position.

The quickest and most efficient strategy to stand out from the crowd is to use your cover letter.

When you apply for a job, it adds value by allowing the employer to learn more about you, your personality, and what you genuinely want from the position and gain insight into why you’re applying.

A cover letter is a required component of practically every job application.

But even when it’s not a requirement, it’s still a good idea to create one!

You must not only ensure that it sells your skills and qualities to recruiters, but you must also ensure that it is written clearly and simply that it persuades the reader to want to meet you.

Find affordable textbooks at www.textbooknova.com

How To Write A Great Cover Letter?

It’s critical to demonstrate that you’ve done your homework about the organization so you can show that you’re the most qualified individual for the role.

The advice on what should appear in the letter varies. But you should describe why you applied for this position, what appeals to you about the role. And why you would love to work for this company.

Keep in mind, it’s not about you, it’s about the job.

So don’t overuse the word “I” in your cover letter; it’s about how you meet the employer’s needs.

The ideal method is to create an introduction that says what position you’re applying for. And why you believe you’re a good match based on the ad requirements.

After that, give a three-point overview of why you are an excellent candidate for an interview.

This entices them to peruse your resume more eagerly.

Landing The Job

Obviously, even the best resume and cover letter won’t guarantee that you’ll land the job.

However, when you have the right resume and the right cover letter, all you’ll need to do is to be yourself and answer your potential employer’s questions truthfully.

And even if you don’t get the job, you’ll still have a stellar resume and some newfound job application experience to help you land the next one!

July 5, 2021
10 Best Books For Father’s Day 2021

Father’s Day’s coming up, and you’re wondering what I should get that special man? Check out our list of the best books for Father’s Day!

If you buy him a book, he’ll be overjoyed—and I think there’s nothing more considerate than a Father’s Day book.

Like the finest Fathers, the finest father’s day books will rely on what your favourite father enjoys most in life.

Giving books as a gift to dad is terrific!

Not only because it allows even the most seasoned father to discover new worlds. But also because he can learn more about his favourite hobby, or be entertained by a colourful cast of characters.

If your dad is a big reader, you’re in luck because this blog post will outline 10 of the best books of 2021 to give your Dad this Father’s Day.

Look Big By Rachel Levin

This handbook to interactions with 50 different animals is essential for dads who enjoy camping and being outside.

Journalist Levin offers well-researched information in Look Big for surviving encounters with wild creatures like coyotes, bears, and moose.

As well as helpful ideas, tales, and charts for coping with smaller animals such as bees and skunks.

The Phantom Atlas By Edward Brooke-Hitching

If your father likes to impress his dinner guests with obscure historical information, he’ll sure enjoy The Phantom Atlas.

Each page is filled with reproductions of historical maps that emphasize errors committed on those maps. Such as early mapmakers’ mishaps and cartographers’ purposeful lies intended to deceive the map reader.

He’ll be sure to uncover a new story to surprise everyone at the next family gathering with magnificent photos and intriguing historical anecdotes from civilization’s past.

1,000 Record Covers By Michael Ochs

This anthology of album art will captivate any dads out there who still have a record collection somewhere in the house.

Michael Ochs is a well-known music archivist and rock photographer. In this book, he has chosen the best album covers from his vast private collection to display throughout the book.

1,000 Record Covers, takes readers on a journey through the growth of rock music from the 1960s through to the 1990s.

Dead Wake By Erik Larson

The story of the Lusitania, a luxury ocean liner that we once considered the world’s fastest cruise ship during WWI, is examined and retold in this New York Times bestseller.

In May 1915, the ship sank, carrying a record number of newborns and children.

Larson’s meticulously researched tale, Dead Wake, tries to resolve many of the lingering mysteries about the accident.

Perfect for dads who are into historically based mystery books!

To Me, He Was Just Dad: Stories of Growing Up with Famous Fathers By Joshua David Stein

This book includes a collection of stories about legendary father figures. Such as John Wayne, John Lennon, Bruce Lee, Christopher Reeve, and Miles Davis. It also includes many anecdotes of the lives of the editors of the infamous dad website known as Fatherly.

For a refreshing, emotional take on parenthood, the forty first-person narratives in To Me He Was Just Dad expose a very different perspective of the famous individuals you think you know.

Greenlights By Matthew McConaughey

Actor Matthew McConaughey tackles what he calls “catching greenlights” in this renowned memoir. The emotional effect of learning how to deal with life’s adversities to realize success.

If your dad is a movie buff, Greenlights is the perfect book to add to his collection of books, DVDs, and VHS tapes!

24: Life Stories And Lessons from The Say Hey Kid By Willie Mays and John Shea

Willie Mays is widely recognized as baseball’s finest all-around player due to his unmatched hitting, defence, and base-running skills. Here, he shares the inspirations and influences that he credits with guiding him on and off the field in his inspirational biography.

For the sport fanatics out there, 24: Life Stories And Lessons From The Say Hey Kid is the perfect gift for this Father’s Day!

American Sherlock By Kate Winkler Dawson

The actual narrative of the genesis of the modern criminal justice system is told in American Sherlock.

Edward Oscar Heinrich became America’s first forensic scientist in 1993. He was dubbed the “American Sherlock Holmes” because of his superhuman ability to notice clues and solve puzzles.

Heinrich was the driving force behind the development of several forensic instruments used by police today. In essence, forever altering the direction of criminal investigations in the United States and the world.

Let Love Have the Last Word: A Memoir By Common

In Let Love Have the Last Word, Common, a Grammy Award, Academy Award, and Golden Globe-winning musician, actor, and activist, opens his heart, exploring a range of topics with tremendous honesty.

These include faith and family to trauma and abuse, all the while expressing his core belief. That love and mindfulness, through our actions and words, can help us to heal our hearts and communities.

Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life… And Maybe The World By Admiral William H. McRaven

Make Your Bed is based on a Navy SEAL’s 2014 University of Texas at Austin commencement speech. It is jam-packed with significant life lessons that begin with a simple premise: changing the world starts with making your bed.

McRaven discussed ten concepts he learned from his Navy Seal training at the graduation ceremony. Which he later put into effect when conquering problems not just in his Navy career but also in his personal life.

With more than 10 million views on the platform YouTube, the speech went viral.

The admiral expands on his remarks in this book, full of humility, hope, wisdom, practical guidance, and encouraging words.

June 20, 2021
Best Summer Jobs For Students [And How To Land Them]

Wondering how to fill in your summer? Check out our list of the best summer jobs for students and a few tips on how to land them!

Summer, for most college or university students, means earning just enough money to relax and enjoy themselves for a few months in between semesters.

However, it can also be an excellent time to acquire job experience and to set yourself up for future career success!

This guide will help you find a great summer job that suits your interests!

It will also give you a few tips and tricks to help you land a summer job that you can use to improve your resumes and career outlook.

What Are Some Great Jobs For Students?

So whether you’re looking for an internship at a big-name business or a part-time job in your hometown, we’ve got you covered!

Below, we take a look at a few of the most common jobs that are posted and available for summer students.

Lifeguard

Pools and beaches are busiest throughout the summer, so plenty of summer employment is available for swimmers and water-lovers.

There are usually several openings available at local and neighbourhood pools.

If you live along the coast or near a lake, there are also openings at public beaches.

These jobs offer an excellent opportunity to earn a bit of extra cash, while also improving your health and spending time outside having fun in the sun.

Babysitter Or Nanny

Another summer job that opens up a world of possibilities for those who qualify is being a nanny.

If you want to travel, you may choose to look for summer jobs as an “au pair” in another country. Or, if you prefer to stick closer to home, there should be plenty of work during the summer as parents scramble to balance their work life while their children are out from school.

But, on the other hand, if you enjoy staying busy, spending time with children, and being outside, this job won’t even feel like work!

Sales Assistant

Do you have a talent for persuasion and a desire to support others?

If so, then you could be successful in a sales associate position, whether at a clothing store, pop-up boutique, outdoor shop, telecommunication company, or furniture gallery.

Some stores have commission systems to incentivize you even further.

These jobs are popular with those interested in a future career in industry, finance, or sales/marketing.

But they are also suited if you’re looking for a low-pressure summer job or a discount at your favourite store.

Freelance Web Design

Working as a web designer could be the perfect summer job if you have a knack for technology, know how to use website platforms like WordPress and SquareSpace, or enjoy coding.

Rather than working a 9-to-5 job, freelances get to set their hours to accommodate a wide range of clients.

In your role as a web designer, you may create websites, upgrade existing sites, add new widgets and apps, or advise clients on how they can make the most of their online presence.

Online Tutor

Tutoring has long been a way for book-smart students to earn money over their summer breaks.

Online tutoring options have also increased due to the Internet, especially with more student studying from due to COVID-19.

So if you are a bright individual with access to the Internet and a computer, nothing can stop you from sharing that knowledge with others who need it most!

Find cheap and affordable textbooks at www.textbooknova.com

How To Land The Job

Sure, it’s great to know that there are many opportunities out there for students during the summertime.

But how exactly do you land the job?

Write A Fantastic Resume And Cover Letter

As a student, you’ll want to include any relevant coursework, charity work, and any groups or teams you’ve been a member of on your resume.

Hiring managers may recognize that you lack skills relevant to the open role. But they will also be searching for evidence that you are responsible, capable of completing assignments thoroughly and on schedule, and ready to work hard.

Therefore, applicants should customize their resumes to provide any experience that is closely relevant to the job vacancy in question.

In your cover letter, you should note where you heard about the vacancy and then outline the given job description.

Use the letter’s main body as a “sales pitch” to outline the skills you will bring to the job.

Then, close your letter with a statement of interest in the position, a request to meet for a personal interview, and a heartfelt “thank you” for the employer’s time and consideration.

Networking

When searching for summer jobs, networking is a great way to go, and it’s not difficult to do.

Ask teachers, family members, former employers, coaches, colleagues, friends’ parents, and everyone else you might think of for assistance with your summer work quest.

Networking is the simplest way to find jobs, and most people are willing to provide advice, help, and career leads.

Volunteering

Volunteering is a fantastic experience that will open up more doors for you than you ever imagined.

However, we automatically equate it with giving; whether it’s to the community or a worthy cause, we want to believe it’s not about us.

For this reason, volunteering looks great on your CV, as it shows motivation and selflessness.

Summer Jobs And How To Land ‘Em

After your last exam, there’s no doubt that you’ll want to kick back and forget about school until next semester.

However, during your time off, it’s a good idea to look for jobs and relevant volunteering experiencing.

Not only is a summer job perfect for earning a bit of extra coin during your down time. But you can also look for job opportunities that can help further your career prospects for later on down the line!

June 5, 2021
Best Mother’s Day Themed Books – Spring 2021

Looking for the best Mother’s Day themed books to check out this May?

Why not explore books with complex mother relationships!

It’s a great way to celebrate Mom’s day and better understand all the mothers and mother figures in your life.

So without further ado, here are the best Mother’s Day books to check out this May.

Universal Harvester By John Darnielle

Small town life takes a strange turn when Jeremy discovers bizarre footage appearing on VHS tapes where he works at the Video Hut.

Jeremy lives with his father in a home where they’ve developed a monotonous routine since the death of his mother six years ago.

Set in the late 1990s, Universal Harvester deliberately provokes feelings of dread. However, the reader will learn that the actual narrator of this story already knows how everything plays out.

Darnielle masterfully increases this sense of dread when Jeremy and his friends investigate the strange VHS footage. What is revealed is a story that spans decades, including the story of a young woman whose mother joins a religious cult.

Ultimately, the theme that ties all these stories together is motherly grief, including the loss of a mother, the loss of a wife, and yearning to find a missing parent.

As a result, if you like a little horror and one heck of a mystery, Universal Harvester should be on your reading list this May.

Pride And Prejudice By Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, is considered a classic.

So if you haven’t read it yet, you should check it out this May for Mother’s Day!

This book follows the Bennet family in 1812. With five daughters under one roof, it becomes Mrs. Bennet’s mission to see all her daughters married to wealthy men.

While Mrs. Bennet is often mocked and ridiculed for her ridiculous behaviour, her actions speak to the actual problems of the time; if a mother without a male heir didn’t find suitable matches for her daughters, the family could lose everything.

Full of romance, and a true historical gem, Pride and Prejudice is a mother-themed beautiful book you should check out this May.

Beloved By Toni Morrison

Beloved focuses on Sethe, a woman born a slave who manages to escape to a better life. However, 18 years later on, Sethe still isn’t free.

Still connected to her life at “Sweet Home” and the horrors that occurred there, Sethe can’t escape her past. And she can’t ignore the present either.

Her new home is haunted. The ghost of a nameless baby haunts the very foundation of where Sethe now lives.

Using the power of history, Morrison carves a truthful retelling of slavery and how the past can profoundly impact the future.

Beloved is considered a great American classic. With its gorgeous poetic prose, it’s a Mother’s Day book you should check out.

Where The Crawdads Sing By Delia Owens

Delia Owens’s best-selling novel, Where the Crawdads Sing, takes place in Barkley Cove, a small town along the North Carolina Coast.

For years, rumours about a ‘Marsh Girl,’ Kya Clark, have haunted residents. And these rumours eventually come to a head when a local, Chase Andrews, is found dead.

Abandoned by her parents at a young age, Kya has learned to fend for herself. Intelligent and sensitive, she yearns for love and finds it in two young men.

Until something happens that changes everything.

Where the Crawdad Sings deals with several complex mother-daughter issues, including abandonment, mental health, and spousal abuse.

Recommended by Reese Witherspoon’s book club, Where the Crawdad Sings is a stunning book you should check out this May.

The Joy Luck Club By Amy Tan

By Amy Tan, The Joy Luck Club explores the conflicts between American-raised daughters and their Chinese immigrant mothers.

In 1949, 4 Chinese women met weekly for a game of Mahjong. Connected by their journey as immigrants to San Francisco, their weekly game becomes an opportunity to talk about what they left behind.

All four women have daughters who grow up in America and find their mother’s advice irrelevant. At least until they realize that their personal lives have much more in common with their mother’s past than they ever bargained for.

Best known for her straightforward writing style, Tan evokes complex tension, mystery, and heart in every sentence.

Therefore, if you love a book with complex mother-daughter relationships, make sure to check out The Joy Luck Club this May.

Honour Mom And Get Reading!

Reading great mother themed books is one way to share an experience with your mother this Mother’s Day.

This list of best Mother’s Day books to check out this May isn’t exhaustive.

However, it should get you thinking about motherly relationships and family in a whole different way.

Undoubtedly, our mothers are a big part of our life.

So why not explore motherhood, give thanks, and get reading in honour of Mom this May!

May 20, 2021
Binaural Beats And Studying – Are They Effective?
Have you heard of using binaural beats to improve cognitive function? Below, we examine binaural beats and whether or not they can be used effectively to help you study.

The topic of binaural beats is still relatively new to the world of science.

In fact, most doctors consider this therapeutic treatment as semi-experimental.

However, studies have shown that listening to binaural beats may have a positive effect on your brain and cognitive functioning.

But the big question is; are binaural beats effective at helping you study?

In the following article, we explore the science behind binaural beats, and most importantly, whether or not binaural beats are effective at helping you study.

What Are Binaural Beats?

Binaural beats occur when listening to two different frequencies, which your brain then interprets as a rhythm of beat made up of the difference between the two frequencies.

One ear receives one frequency, while the other receives a different frequency.

But instead of hearing two distinct sounds, the brain processes both as a single frequency.

What this means is, you’ll hear these two tones as one single tone, which is why these frequencies are sometimes referred to as an auditory illusion.

Binaural Beat Tones & Patterns

To achieve a binaural beat, each individual tone must be less than 1000 Hz.

Furthermore, the difference between the two tones should also be no more than 30 Hz. And only one of the two tones is played in each ear.

A 2018 study suggests there are 5 categories of frequency patterns produced by listening to these tones.

These categories include Delta, Theta, Alpha, Beta, and Gamma.
1. Do you suffer from sleep issues? Delta patterns (0.5 – 4 Hz) helped participants of the study enter a deeper, more peaceful sleep.
2. The study also showed that listening to Theta patterns (4 – 7 Hz) can help with creativity, meditation, and sleep.
3. Beta patterns (13 – 30 Hz) help with creativity, alertness, and concentration. However, be warned that at the higher end of the range, this pattern can increase feelings of anxiety.
4. For a little relaxation, try listening to Alpha patterns. The study showed that those who listened to 7 – 13 Hz felt more relaxed.
5. According to a different study, the Gamma pattern (30 – 50 Hz) is the least understood of all these tonal patterns. However, it’s believed that these patterns can help with peak cognitive functioning.
Are Binaural Beats Effective At Improving Brain Function?

Studies on binaural beats show conflicting information.

For instance, some studies show that using binaural beats increase cognitive functions like memory, while others proved that binaural beats have the reverse effect.

That being said, when it comes to attention and concentration, binaural beats have been proven to increase both.

In other words, there is some evidence to suggests that listening to these frequencies can help you focus and learn while you’re studying your text books.

Do Binaural Beats Help You Study?

According to Psychology Today, you can use binaural beats to improve both your working and long-term memory.

In other words, binaural beats can help you to recall information that you’ve recently processed while studying.

Some studies show that Gamma patterns in particular can help to increase attention to detail, as well as complicated problem solving, and brainstorming.

So despite conflicting study results, when used correctly, binaural beats can increase some people’s ability to recall information.

This means using binaural beats to study might help you better recall information in time for your next test.

How To Study With Binaural Beats

It’s easy to study with binaural beats.

Set aside 15 – 30 minutes before studying. Use this time to listen to binaural beats, which will help your brain tune into the frequency and fall into synchronization.

Then, you should proceed to study as you normally would.

You won’t notice any sort of immediate effects.

However, the next time you try and recall information, the answer will likely come to you much faster than before.

Find affordable textbooks, novels and study guides at www.textbooknova.com

Binaural Beats – Who Should Use Them?

It must be said that some people shouldn’t use or listen to binaural beats.

For example, never listen to binaural beats while driving or operating heavy machinery. There’s a risk that the rhythm could put you in a trance. This puts the safety of others (and yourself) in danger.
- If you suffer from seizures or epilepsy, these tones can increase the risk of having a seizure.
- Pregnant women shouldn’t listen to these frequencies because it increases the chances of triggering labor.
- If you have a prescription for tranquilizers or have a diagnosed psychological disorder, avoiding listening to these tones.
- Young children shouldn’t listen to these frequencies as it increases the risk of seizure.
- Binaural beats can also affect your heartbeat. Therefore, anyone with a pacemaker or heart condition should avoid listening to binaural beats.
Binaural Beats And Studying

Although evidence does suggest that listening to these frequencies can help improve your overall cognitive functioning, they’re not a magical solution for helping you pass that upcoming exam, and they’re not going to be as effective for everyone.

In other words, some people might need to listen to binaural beats longer to achieve the same results.

Or, they may find that doing so increases their anxiety levels and has the opposite effect.

Therefore, the best advice is to experiment with what works for you.

With any luck, binaural beats will give you a cognitive boost, and you’ll be acing that exam in no time!
May 5, 2021