Written assignment instructions: 1. Research job descriptions/ads in Media Planner, and choose one that is a good ‘fit’ for your academic discipline and skill set. You will complete both this assignment and your first writing assignment (a cover letter) as if you are applying for this job/internship, so choose wisely. You must submit this description/ad with your assignment. You should also do some general research on your job/industry -try using the Occupational Outlook Handbook on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website at http://bls.gov/ooh/a-z-index.htm. 2. Complete the SWOT Analysis Worksheet provided for this assignment based on the job description/ad you choose. Consider the needs of the employer, and target your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to those needs. (See the worksheet example) Include at least three focused and detailed examples for each. You must provide ‘evidence’ to support your claims (such as an example from your life that demonstrates a strength). Consider not only your ‘hard’ skills (academic and work experience), but also your ‘soft’ skills (those skills not directly related to a job description but that will add value for your employer). 3. After completing the SWOT analysis worksheet, evaluate how your skills and experience can make you a good candidate for the job you chose. Write a one-paragraph ‘value proposition’ that best relates your strengths and opportunities to the needs of the employer. This is your ‘personal value proposition,’ your summary of who you are as a job candidate and how you are the best fit for the job. This paragraph should be no more than 150 words. (See the example.) 4. After, completing your SWOT analysis, choose one strength that you can detail in a five-minute presentation to the class, using evidence (examples) from your life and experience to support your claim. Just write it down that and make sure the length can be speak for about 5 minutes It should include: 1. Make an argument/assertion that one of your strengths makes you a good fit for the job for which you are applying, based on experience from your life (work, school, etc.). ? Hint: use your personal value proposition for help. 2. Give detailed evidence from your life that supports your claim. Go beyond the explanation that you gave in your personal value proposition -add more details, data, & specifics to really prove you have this strength. 3. Close by connecting back to how your strength can really benefit the employer. Name: Section: SWOT Analysis Worksheet Strengths Weaknesses What do you do well? What unique resources can you draw on? What do others see as your strengths? 1. What could you improve? Where do you have fewer resources than others? What are others likely to see as weaknesses? 1. Opportunities Threats What opportunities are open to you? What trends could you take advantage of? Can you turn your strengths into opportunities? 1. What threats could harm you? What is your competition doing? What threats do your weaknesses expose you to? 1. SWOT Analysis Worksheet – Example Strengths Weaknesses What do you do well? What could you improve? What unique resources can you draw on? Where do you have fewer resources than others? What do others see as your strengths? What are others likely to see as weaknesses? 1. I’m creative. I often impress my professors with 1. I always want to get things off my “to do” list new perspectives in class discussions and on class quickly and the quality of my work sometimes projects. suffers from that. 2. I communicate well. I’ve demonstrated this in group 2. I stress when I have too many tasks to do. projects in school and with customers at my job in a 3. I get nervous making presentations, which tends to clothing store. make me sound bored in my presentations. 3. I have a good understanding for financial statements and even had to create them, from scratch, for a fictional company for a project in my accounting class. Opportunities Threats What opportunities are open to you? What threats could harm you? What trends could you take advantage of? What is your competition doing? Can you turn your strengths into opportunities? What threats do your weaknesses expose you to? 1. I’m involved in an SPO for my major and am 1. Many of my peers are much better at public attending the professional chapter’s local speaking than I am and are competing with me for networking events. jobs. 2. I work for my major’s departmental office as a 2. My industry is experiencing slow growth – many student worker. My co-worker is going to study firms have hiring freezes going on. abroad next semester and the department doesn’t 3. I don’t yet have internship experience and many of want to train someone new since she’ll only be gone my peers do. one semester. This gives me the opportunity to learn more about other parts of our office and learn to better multi-task. 3. Many companies in my industry are transitioning to newer technologies that I already have experience using in my classes. SWOT Assignment: Sample Job Ad & Example PVP Note: for this sample, assume one of the student’s listed strengths on her SWOT analysis was her ability to manage multiple tasks at once and achieve results, as evidenced by her experience running charity events for her sorority. Sample Job Ad: Charities & Community Relations Intern, Philadelphia Eagles Job Description: ‘Coordinate & communicate with non-profit groups for events and charity ticket distributions ‘Writing thank you letters ‘Assisting with planning & execution of charitable events ‘Assisting with oversight of charitable event budgets Candidates for the internship should: ‘Be proficient in Microsoft Office applications ‘Be organized, motivated, proactive, personable, and professional ‘Be able to manage multiple tasks at once and understand how they all fit together ‘Be a student, currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree ‘Have at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA ‘Have some experience planning events and/or working with charities Sample Personal Value Proposition I am a results-oriented multi-tasker who can plan and execute events that will strengthen your organization’s image. I can coordinate events for families, set up engaging activities for children, and bolster the Eagles’ public image. As the philanthropy chair for my sorority, I regularly coordinated events benefitting various children’s charities. In my two years in this role, I planned and executed eight events, each benefitting a different charity, and increased both our sorority’s participation and our annual total dollar amount donated by over 25%. I also promoted these events to garner positive publicity in our local area. I can help the Eagles in organizing meaningful events that will help both the team and local organizations in need. (117 words)

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.