Virginia University of Lynchburg INFORMATION INTERVIEWING What is Information Interviewing? An information interview is just what it sounds like -an interview designed to gather information. It is an opportunity to ‘test’ a career by going to talk to a person who is actually doing the work you would like to do. The purpose is to gain current ‘insider’ information on various aspects of working in the field including typical entry level positions, educational background required, keys to success, typical career paths, work environments, etc. All students and alumni, regardless of the stage of their career development, can benefit from this career-search tool. What are the benefits to conducting Information Interviews? ‘Explore: Learn the realities of working in a particular field and/or for a particular organization ‘Tap into the hidden job market: Gain ‘insider’ information on the hiring practices for a particular organization, learn how to break into and succeed in your chosen industry, and discover the names of other organizations who may be hiring ‘Practice that can be applied to job/internship interviews: Talk with professional’s one-on-one -learn the language of the industry ‘Build your network: Get connected to other professionals -start building relationships Who to contact? ‘Begin by identifying the organizations and people that work in a setting you like, work in career areas that interest you, and/or work in specific jobs in specific organizations of interest. Consider the following resources when trying to identify contacts: ‘Your Networks: You may already know someone who can answer your questions. Consider family, friends, neighbors, former employers/supervisors, teachers, relatives, etc. Connect with anyone you or your family knows who may be a good source for an information interview or a resource for a referral. ‘Trade & Professional Associations: Research associations relevant to your field of interest (e.g., Public Relations Society of America). Get involved in a local chapter -this is a great way to connect with professionals in the field. ‘People in the News: Look for people whose interests are similar to yours. Read relevant magazines and newspapers. Take notes as you watch television and listen to the radio. These are contact names of people who are doing what you want to do -go talk to them. ‘Speakers on Campus: Interesting people — experts in their field -occasionally come to campus to deliver lectures and present programs. Do not be afraid to approach these people after their talk to introduce yourself and ask for their business card. How to arrange an interview? ‘Use phone, email or a formal letter to introduce yourself to the contact and to explain your request. ‘Introduce yourself and tell the person how you got their name. If possible, use a mutual acquaintance or the Career & Professional Development office as a bridge for your contact. (e.g., I am Lisa Smith, a Doctoral Student at Virginia University of Lynchburg. I was given your name by…) ‘Explain your request to schedule a meeting to gather information about their career. If questioned, indicate clearly that you are not seeking a job from them but merely conducting career research which will help you make better decisions. Schedule a 20–30-minute appointment in person (optimal) or by phone at their convenience. If the present time is too busy for the person you contact, ask when would be a better time in the future. ‘Be careful to not let your phone call to schedule the appointment turn into the actual interview. Be sure and ask for directions and parking information. ‘Letter and email requests for appointments are most effective if followed up by a telephone inquiry to confirm an appointment time. Preparing for the Information Interview Remember, people are generally interested in talking about what they do and how they do it. But, don’t waste their time or your time – be prepared! Know your interests, skills, values and how they relate to the career field represented by the persons you’re interviewing. Research the interviewee’s career area and organization. Know exactly what kinds of information you want by having a list of questions in mind. Generally, don’t ask something routine that is readily available elsewhere. Check the Career & Professional Development office for print materials. The Internet can provide resources on the organization (e.g., the organization’s homepage) and on career fields (e.g., www.wetfeet.com). Possible Questions -What do you say? The following are some topics areas and sample questions to consider incorporating into your interview. You will need to adapt them to fit your career field, needs, interests, and what you already know about the person and his/her field. 1. Career field/Industry Examples: What are the various types of jobs available? What types of training do companies offer those entering this field? How is the economy affecting this industry? What entrylevel jobs offer the best opportunities for learning? What is the typical entry-level salary in this field? What trends do you see for this industry in the next 3-5 years? What is the most important thing that someone planning to enter this career should know? 2. Interviewee’s background and job Examples: How did you get started in the field? What was your educational background? What is a typical day for you? A typical week? To what extent is the job what you expected? How much flexibility do you have in determining how you do your job? Do you find your job exciting or boring? Why? What is most rewarding about the job? 3. Problems/Challenges on the Job Examples: What are the toughest problems you deal with? What problems as a whole does the organization have? What constraints such as time and funding make your job more difficult? What do you do if you cannot solve a problem on your own? 4. Career Path Examples: What jobs and experiences have led you to your present position? What were the keys to your career advancement? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? If your work were suddenly eliminated, what kinds of work do you feel prepared to do? 5. The Organization Examples: Why did you decide to work for this organization? What do you like most about this organization? Is turnover high? Do they promote from within? What does the organization do to contribute to its employees’ professional development? What are your co-workers like? How would you describe the morale of people who work here? What is the best thing about this place? 6. Referral Questions Based on our conversation today, what other types of people do you believe I should talk to? Can you name a few of these people? May I have your permission to use your name when I contact them? After the Information Interview ‘Always send a thank-you letter to the person you interviewed. Sum up the significant things you learned, and let them know that their help was appreciated. People appreciate and remember courtesy. ‘Record the information that you obtained: names, comments, and new referrals for future reference. ‘Evaluate your experience. How did you manage in scheduling and conducting the information interview? How sufficiently did you prepare? Did you get the information you sought? What information do you still lack? Do you need to interview more people in order to get more than one biased viewpoint or additional information? What do you need to do next? ‘Make appointments to interview the referrals obtained during the interview. Tips for handling the interview ‘Do not exceed your requested time, but be prepared to stay longer in case the contact indicates a willingness to talk longer. ‘Dress as if it were an actual job interview. First impressions are always important. ‘Get to your appointment a few minutes early and BE COURTEOUS to everyone that you meet secretary, receptionist, etc. ‘Take the initiative in conducting the interview. The interview is in your ball park. You ask the questions; you interview the person. Ask open-ended questions which promote a discussion and cannot be answered with one-word responses. ‘Remember that you are seeking information, not a job. ‘Once inside the organization, look around. What kind of working environment is there-dress style, communication patterns, sense of humor, etc.? Is this a place you would want to work? DHA 811 Externship Course Description This one semester externship provides eligible graduating DHA students an opportunity to refine Healthcare Administrative skills in a variety of off-campus healthcare facilities. Students choose from a list of University approved Externship sites and are trained under the supervision of a Healthcare Administrator. The students are required to complete 40 clock hours of onsite work for every credit hour. Course Goals The goals for this course have been divided into four distinctive domains: the accumulation of information, appraisal of accomplishments, individual development, and professional growth. 1. The goal of accumulating information. Each student will acquire knowledge about healthcare organization they did not know before taking this course. This information will be obtained from reading various publications, class discussions where various information about students’ experiences will be shared, and from practical experiences at a healthcare organization for the enrolled semester. 2. The goal of appraising accomplishment. Each student will develop knowledge about a particular healthcare organization as he or she performs the assignments of field placement, and as he or she acquires professional experience while interning within the healthcare organization. While performing the externship each student is encouraged to examine patterns, distinguished motives for alliances, and evaluate the conditions in the healthcare organization. Each student should be able to determine how much professional knowledge he/she has accumulated during the externship about the healthcare organization. 3. The goal of individual development. Each student will assess his or her strengths and weaknesses as they relate to performing within the healthcare organization. This assessment may occur while the student is learning to work with people from diverse backgrounds. Each student will be conscious of improving his or her report writing and language (professional jargon) skills as they relate to that particular healthcare organization. 4. The goal of professional growth. Each student will increase his or her awareness of what a career would be like within the healthcare organization where the externship is conducted. Each student will communicate his or her aspirations as they related to the healthcare administration field. Each student will become acquainted with relationship building with co-workers and peers. Course Objectives 1. Each student will have a ‘hands on’ experience with a healthcare organization, becoming familiar with the operations, functions, and activities of the organization. 2. Each student will have his/her knowledge base of the healthcare system assessed. 3. Students will have an opportunity to practice the professional jargon used within an organization based on their externship. 4. Students will practice or employ accumulated knowledge about the healthcare administration field, the profession through the fulfillment of various assignment during this course. Student Learning Outcomes 1. Students will be able to describe in written and oral forms the function(s) of the healthcare administration components. 2. Students will develop a resume appropriate for a prospective job or to carry to an interview. 3. Students will describe the externship in a written journal. Grading 1. Externship Evaluation 2. Time sheet (performed all hours) 3. Journal 150 pts. 150 pts. 50 pts. Letter grade equivalents for numerical grades are as follows: A = 93–100 B = 83–87 A-= 90–92 C = 73–82 B+ = 88–89 F = Below 73 To receive credit for the course, you must earn a letter grade of C or higher on the weightedaverage of all assigned course work (e.g., assignments, discussion postings, projects, etc.). Graduate students must maintain a B average overall to remain in good academic standing. Virginia University of Lynchburg Externship Program Externships are short-term shadowing experiences in which a student follows a professional to observe the day-to-day activities in their workplace. As an extern, you’ll gain an insider’s perspective of your chosen field, make connections with professionals in the industry, and assess if this is really what you want to pursue post-graduation. Explore the World of Externship The Externship Program provides students with professional networking and job shadowing experiences in their chosen career fields. Graduate students are matched with employers in a variety of careers across all industries and academic disciplines. Students will have the opportunity to network with and shadow employers in their desired career field through informational interviews, informative company presentations, and working alongside employees on different projects. The Externship Program occurs on a rolling basis, flexible to the agency’s schedule. Agencies can choose the length and dates of the experience. Anywhere from one day up to 2 hours a week for one month. Benefits received are invaluable. Not only will students gain real world career knowledge and experience, they will also expand their career network. Some students find their networking has led them to find a lifelong mentor, an internship, and even a full-time employment offer. Currently we are conducting this program with both online and in-person options. If companies are operating in-person and choose to do so, they can host students at their facility. Additionally, if companies are operating in a virtual capacity, we have many options for connecting with students. Student Name:_________________________ Student ID:______________________________ Date Day Start Time End Time Total Hours Total Hours:_____________ Student Signature:_________________________ Supervisor Signature:_________________________ Virginia University of Lynchburg INFORMATION INTERVIEWING What is Information Interviewing? An information interview is just what it sounds like -an interview designed to gather information. It is an opportunity to ‘test’ a career by going to talk to a person who is actually doing the work you would like to do. The purpose is to gain current ‘insider’ information on various aspects of working in the field including typical entry level positions, educational background required, keys to success, typical career paths, work environments, etc. All students and alumni, regardless of the stage of their career development, can benefit from this career-search tool. What are the benefits to conducting Information Interviews? ‘Explore: Learn the realities of working in a particular field and/or for a particular organization ‘Tap into the hidden job market: Gain ‘insider’ information on the hiring practices for a particular organization, learn how to break into and succeed in your chosen industry, and discover the names of other organizations who may be hiring ‘Practice that can be applied to job/internship interviews: Talk with professional’s one-on-one -learn the language of the industry ‘Build your network: Get connected to other professionals -start building relationships Who to contact? ‘Begin by identifying the organizations and people that work in a setting you like, work in career areas that interest you, and/or work in specific jobs in specific organizations of interest. Consider the following resources when trying to identify contacts: ‘Your Networks: You may already know someone who can answer your questions. Consider family, friends, neighbors, former employers/supervisors, teachers, relatives, etc. Connect with anyone you or your family knows who may be a good source for an information interview or a resource for a referral. ‘Trade & Professional Associations: Research associations relevant to your field of interest (e.g., Public Relations Society of America). Get involved in a local chapter -this is a great way to connect with professionals in the field. ‘People in the News: Look for people whose interests are similar to yours. Read relevant magazines and newspapers. Take notes as you watch television and listen to the radio. These are contact names of people who are doing what you want to do -go talk to them. ‘Speakers on Campus: Interesting people — experts in their field -occasionally come to campus to deliver lectures and present programs. Do not be afraid to approach these people after their talk to introduce yourself and ask for their business card. How to arrange an interview? ‘Use phone, email or a formal letter to introduce yourself to the contact and to explain your request. ‘Introduce yourself and tell the person how you got their name. If possible, use a mutual acquaintance or the Career & Professional Development office as a bridge for your contact. (e.g., I am Lisa Smith, a Doctoral Student at Virginia University of Lynchburg. I was given your name by…) ‘Explain your request to schedule a meeting to gather information about their career. If questioned, indicate clearly that you are not seeking a job from them but merely conducting career research which will help you make better decisions. Schedule a 20–30-minute appointment in person (optimal) or by phone at their convenience. If the present time is too busy for the person you contact, ask when would be a better time in the future. ‘Be careful to not let your phone call to schedule the appointment turn into the actual interview. Be sure and ask for directions and parking information. ‘Letter and email requests for appointments are most effective if followed up by a telephone inquiry to confirm an appointment time. Preparing for the Information Interview Remember, people are generally interested in talking about what they do and how they do it. But, don’t waste their time or your time – be prepared! Know your interests, skills, values and how they relate to the career field represented by the persons you’re interviewing. Research the interviewee’s career area and organization. Know exactly what kinds of information you want by having a list of questions in mind. Generally, don’t ask something routine that is readily available elsewhere. Check the Career & Professional Development office for print materials. The Internet can provide resources on the organization (e.g., the organization’s homepage) and on career fields (e.g., www.wetfeet.com). Possible Questions -What do you say? The following are some topics areas and sample questions to consider incorporating into your interview. You will need to adapt them to fit your career field, needs, interests, and what you already know about the person and his/her field. 1. Career field/Industry Examples: What are the various types of jobs available? What types of training do companies offer those entering this field? How is the economy affecting this industry? What entrylevel jobs offer the best opportunities for learning? What is the typical entry-level salary in this field? What trends do you see for this industry in the next 3-5 years? What is the most important thing that someone planning to enter this career should know? 2. Interviewee’s background and job Examples: How did you get started in the field? What was your educational background? What is a typical day for you? A typical week? To what extent is the job what you expected? How much flexibility do you have in determining how you do your job? Do you find your job exciting or boring? Why? What is most rewarding about the job? 3. Problems/Challenges on the Job Examples: What are the toughest problems you deal with? What problems as a whole does the organization have? What constraints such as time and funding make your job more difficult? What do you do if you cannot solve a problem on your own? 4. Career Path Examples: What jobs and experiences have led you to your present position? What were the keys to your career advancement? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? If your work were suddenly eliminated, what kinds of work do you feel prepared to do? 5. The Organization Examples: Why did you decide to work for this organization? What do you like most about this organization? Is turnover high? Do they promote from within? What does the organization do to contribute to its employees’ professional development? What are your co-workers like? How would you describe the morale of people who work here? What is the best thing about this place? 6. Referral Questions Based on our conversation today, what other types of people do you believe I should talk to? Can you name a few of these people? May I have your permission to use your name when I contact them? After the Information Interview ‘Always send a thank-you letter to the person you interviewed. Sum up the significant things you learned, and let them know that their help was appreciated. People appreciate and remember courtesy. ‘Record the information that you obtained: names, comments, and new referrals for future reference. ‘Evaluate your experience. How did you manage in scheduling and conducting the information interview? How sufficiently did you prepare? Did you get the information you sought? What information do you still lack? Do you need to interview more people in order to get more than one biased viewpoint or additional information? What do you need to do next? ‘Make appointments to interview the referrals obtained during the interview. Tips for handling the interview ‘Do not exceed your requested time, but be prepared to stay longer in case the contact indicates a willingness to talk longer. ‘Dress as if it were an actual job interview. First impressions are always important. ‘Get to your appointment a few minutes early and BE COURTEOUS to everyone that you meet secretary, receptionist, etc. ‘Take the initiative in conducting the interview. The interview is in your ball park. You ask the questions; you interview the person. Ask open-ended questions which promote a discussion and cannot be answered with one-word responses. ‘Remember that you are seeking information, not a job. ‘Once inside the organization, look around. What kind of working environment is there-dress style, communication patterns, sense of humor, etc.? Is this a place you would want to work? Purchase answer to see full attachment

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.