Resume/Cover Letter Workshop

There will be a workshop tonight to help students work on their resumes and cover letters.  If you need someone to look over your resume/cover letter then stop in anytime from 5-7 pm tonight, September 26th in room 211 of the University Center. 

Haven't started your resume yet and don't know where to begin?  Stop in and have one of the University Center staff members get you started.  Check out the Job Application Information Packet available on the UCRC website, otherwise a few printed copies will be available at the workshop for students to use and take.

Finally, there will also be representatives from the Veterans Upward Bound program on hand to assist our veteran students on many different topics.  Take advantage of these free opportunities!

If you cannot make it to the workshop but would like assistance with any job application materials, contact Career Services at the University Center at 605-718-4142 and ask for Susie.  Individual appointments are always available to assist you in your career search.

The Popinator

OK University Center readers, what do you think, should we add the Popinator to the building?  Check out this story HERE and let us know what you think.

Those of us in the officer were just talking about it and can foresee popcorn eating contests popping up left and right in the bookstore.

10 Things to do to Reach your Dreams

As we were searching for something profound to talk about on the blog today, I came across a list of 10 things successful people do to reach their dreams.  It is a great list of actions that is appropriate all across your life.

1. No ExcusesWe all have several voices in our minds that speak to us.  There is the voice that tells us to work hard, never quit and focus on the task that is presented to us.  It also pushes us to finish the task before we move on to the next and aspire towards our utmost potential.  On the contrary, we unfortunately also have a voice that tells us to take a break, procrastinate, be lazy or hang out on Facebook.
   
   Listen to your excuses.  Understand why you have them.  Then figure out how you can use them for good.  Excuses will only slow you down, making it imperative to find a way to erase them from your mind.
   
2. It's not just about materialism
   Materialistic items are surely a part of your motivation, but they should be a tiny part of the motivation within you.  The truly successful in life always get there because they created change in the lives of others, not just their own.
   
   Find the motivators besides materialistic objects that will drive you-more fundamental motivations instead of just objects that can just come and go.  It will be something within you that will trigger your ambition.
   
3. Early mornings and late nightsThe early bird gets the worm, as the saying goes.  Successful people didn't sleep in late or take days off.  They worked extremely hard and passionately every single day until they reached their goals.  Your personal life and social life will be toned down, but your focus will completely be on your goals with early mornings and late nights.
   
   Abraham Lincoln said, "Things may come to those who wait...but only the things left by those who hustle."  If you want to be successful, you're going to have to out hustle everyone else.
   
4. The greatest commodityThe greatest commodity we all have is time, but energy is just as important as time.  The more energy we have within us, the easier it is to focus, and a higher quality of work is the result.  Your output equals your input.
   
   One of Richard Branson's "keys to success" is staying in great physical shape.  So would raised energy levels be the greatest benefit to working out?  It may be!
   
5. Principles
   Principles and morals are two things that are in-existent in our modern day society.  It has almost become a thing of the past.
   
   Take a look at Winston Churchill.  The man had principles like no other.  The difference between him and the general populace is that he stuck to his principles at all costs.  If you want to be successful, you will emulate Churchill and have faith in your ambitions.  Live your life by what you believe, don't just change because it's the cool thing to do.
   
6. Wavering and unbreakable faith
   It cannot be stressed how important it is to have unbreakable faith instilled within yourself and in your mind.  Many people question if their dream is going to come true.  The strong have unbreakable faith and believe what they are doing is right.
   
   Even if you have moments of doubt, take your unbreakable faith to defeat your self-doubt.  Have your moments, you are human.  Just don't let that doubt eat you up.  Instead let it motivate you to prove your optimism right.
   
7. A reasonYou would be surprised how insecure many successful people are.  What has motivated many of them to succeed is having something to prove to others to help alleviate their insecurities.  If you want to be successful you have to have that powerful driving force behind you to stay motivated.
   
   Understand why.  You have that reason to work when others sleep, to sacrifice a safe life for a risky one with no ceiling.  Find it by asking why, and not stopping until you hit your core, emotional reason for wanting to change your status, or the status of others.
   
8. Persevere when other don't
   Perseverance is one of the biggest tools to success.  Success can come tomorrow or 5 years from you, you truly never know.
   
   Quitting should never be an option or even a thought.  The only time you should stop is when you ultimately reach your goal and then create a new mission.  Don't guarantee your failure by quitting.  You can adapt, change and evolve, but never, ever quit!
   
9. Great people relentlessly studied their craftIf you know the system then you will understand how to beat it.  Our society downgrades how important it is to know the craft, but it is incredibly important.  Take hours of your time and study to perfection.  Be humble and know the craft better than anyone.
   
   Being a drone and simply going through the motions is no way to achieve greatness.  Assuming success is something you want, you have to study your craft.  Learn it inside and out.  Build a wealth of knowledge.  It'll help you create great, inspiring and unique work.
   
10. RiskAs the saying goes, with no risk comes no reward at all.  Those who achieved the most success have laid it all on the line for what they passionately believed in.  It truly takes guts to risk it all, but eventually that is what you are going to have to do.  Do you really want to sit there in regret with a bunch of "what ifs" in your mind?
    
    "The greatest tragedy in life is wasted talent"-A Bronx Tale.  Risk if you truly want to see the reward.  Find your dream.  Then risk everything to get it.  The world is yours, you just have to take it!

This article was originally found here:  http://www.huffingtonpost.com/elite-daily/the-top-10-things-success_b_1874997.html?utm_hp_ref=college.  The information above is a portion of the full article, please read it for full information.  We thank them for the information.
 

Tips for the job search

Here is a brief overview of three different articles containing tips for job searching, extending your career "shelf-life" and a positive outlook for job growth!

First, here are 5 tips for recent college graduates who are currently searching for jobs.  As you read the article, yes it is based on information from Canada, however it is good advice for all job seekers.

1. Don't get discouraged
2. Job seeking is a full time job
3. Pound the pavement
4. Follow up
5. Use all resources

Speaking of using your resources, all students taking classes at the University Center in Rapid City have access to the job search websites appropriate to their home schools.  Also, just because you are a USD student, if you log onto Coyote Careers you have access to job listing not only across the state, but across the country and even internationally.  To link to your home school website, click HERE.  To read the full article mentioned above, click HERE.

Another area to think about is once you have landed a job, how do you stay current and fresh?  Here are six tips from MSN Careers on how to extend your career "shelf-life."

1. Show a willingness to embrace change.
2. Be easy to work with
3. Discover the ability to tab both sides of your brain
4. Develop cultural literacy
5. Embark on a quest for self-improvement
6. Versatility

To read the full article with more in-depth discussions of these tips, click HERE.

Finally, some good news for the Manufacturing Technology and Applied Technical Science majors.  According to THIS article on AOL Jobs, there has been a sharp increase in jobs for skilled factory workers and skilled laborers in the manufacturing field.

2 Weeks Down

Well, it is the end of the 2nd week of classes and it appears that everyone has survived unscathed.  As a quick recap, the following events have occurred over the last two and a half weeks:

• New Student Orientation
• New Faculty Orientation
• Fall Welcome Back for faculty and staff
• Welcome week, featuring treats for students every day of the week
• 1st Student Newsletter was published
• 1st Annual Fall Job Fair

I has been a crazy busy last couple of weeks, but we at the UCRC hope it has been enjoyable and helpful for all of the students we are serving!

A few announcements to share:

• The "Name the Newsletter" contest is still going on.  If you are a UCRC student and have a great idea for what the newsletter should be named, please submit it to Susie Leahy no later than 5 pm on September 14th.  The submitter with the winning name will receive a gift card to the bookstore.
• Keep checking the UCRC events calendar as new activities and opportunities are always being added.
• If you are interested in starting a student organization of any kind, now is the time to act.  UCRC is supporting and encouraging the growth of student organizations, whether they are academic groups or special interest groups.  Contact us at 605-718-4142 for more information.

That's it for now, enjoy the weekend everyone!

Job Fair Employer List

For those of you who are interested in knowing what companies will be on hand at the Job Fair on the 6th, here is a list:

• USD Nursing Program
• BHSU Project SELECT
• Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota
• Fastenal
• Comfort Keepers
• Waddell and Reed
• St. Martin Monastery
• State Farm Insurance-Dave Raml
• Northwestern Mutual Financial Network
• Behavior Management Systems
• Pennington County Sheriff's Office
• US Air Force
• Assurant
• Caterpillar, Inc

Links are included for as many of the businesses as possible.  This will allow you to research the organizations and companies before you arrive at the job fair.

Job Fair Tips

As you may have read already, the UCRC is holding their first ever job fair on September 6th, 3:30-6:30 pm.  If you plan on attending the job fair, here are a few tips to keep in mind as you talk with potential employers.

Before the Fair

1. Know what your goal is for attending the fair and design your entire effort around that aim.
2. Research companies, agencies, or organizations that will be attending the career fair.
3. Take steps towards making a good impression
• Think about your strong points, your goals, the company and where you want to go within the company.  Prepare a "one minute commercial" about yourself.
• Prepare your own job fair kit complete with resumes (enough for all employers you want to talk with) and other items which support your interests and abilities such as references, written works or a portfolio.
• Develop a list of questions to ask employers based on your research of their organization.
• Know what skills are needed for specific careers.
• Know how to relate your past work, academic and out-of-class experiences to the career field.
• Know how to express what you are looking for and what you want.

At the Fair

1. Dress professionally.  You want to present the best image possible.  Old jeans, sweats and tank tops won't cut it.  You will only have a few minutes to make an impression as a job candidate.  Positive first impressions are critical.
2. Smile, make eye contact, and shake hands firmly and confidently.  Introduce yourself with your full name, major and graduation date.
3. Do not bring drinks, food or chew gum.
4. Listen to what the recruiter has to say.
5. Don't ramble.  Provide a concise, well-prepared overall view of what you have to offer.
6. Network while in line, talk to other students about recruiters they have spoken to already.
7. Carry a pen and notepad to take notes that can help you recall conversations with recruiters.
8. Ask for the recruiter's business card for future follow up.

 After the Fair

1. Be patient, some organizations may be "long-term" leads.
2. Follow up with company representatives.
3. Mail a thank-you note as soon as possible to each organization you targeted for further interest to reinforce your good image and to "strike while the iron is still hot!"

If you have questions or concerns about the fair or need assistance with your resume, please do not hesitate to contact Career Services at UCRC, 605-718-4142. 

For the Student Veterans

This post is aimed at a very important segment of the student body, our veterans.  These individuals have volunteered to serve and defend their country and are now heading to school to further their lives and careers.  We would like to say thank you to them for their service and go one step further and tell how we can serve them.

There are multiple resources available for veterans through the University Center and their home campuses.  The first resource we can offer vets is one another.  Sometimes all a person needs is to talk to someone else who has been where they have been and knows what they have been through.  Understanding that, the University Center is working with a determined group of veteran students to create a Vets Club, unique to the UC.  Any student who is taking a class at the UC is welcome to join this club, regardless of what institution they are enrolled in.  The purpose of the club is to support and encourage the veterans and provide resources to them as well as instill a sense of camaraderie in these students.

A second resource will be to bring a VA patient advocate to the building once a month to visit with our veterans about any questions they may have.  A representative from the VA Black Hills Health Care System will be available to answer questions and provide information about Veterans Health Care at the Rapid City University Center in the Lobby Rotunda from 3:30 to 5:00 pm on the following dates:

• September 18, 2012
• October 23, 2012
• November 13, 2012

Be watching for upcoming dates in the spring semester.

A third resource available will be various workshops throughout the semester.  While these workshops will be open to all students, not just veterans, there are a few that I would like to draw special attention to.  Throughout the year, Career Services will be hosting workshops on resumes and cover letters.  At these sessions, in addition to reviewing resumes/cover letters, we will have a representative from the Veteran's Upward Bound program on hand to assist with any number of questions the veteran students may have.  This program is a fantastic and FREE resource to all members of the military who have been discharged or released from active duty under conditions other than dishonorable or discharged, or released from active duty because of a service-connected disability.

There are many additional services that are offered to our veterans.  If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will work with you to answer them or resolve any issues you may be having.  Thank you again for your service and we are honored you chose to continue your education at the University Center Rapid City!

First Day of Class Tips for Success

As we begin another fall semester at the University Center, we would like to share a few tips for success with you.  Please consider implementing these and asking for assistance if you need it.  We are committed to your academic success and will do all we can to help you!  Have a great 2012-2013 academic year!!

• Know why you chose to go to school:  What are your goals?  If your goal is to take a class just to gain knowledge, then you will be better off to take a community education class that doesn't require grading and homework.  If your goal is to obtain a degree, having a clear idea  of what you want to achieve, reaching your goal will be much easier.
• Define your priorities:  If you want to succeed in college, you need to determine what is the most important to you.  Some students had low grades or failed because football came before homework.  Movies came before homework.  Traveling came before homework.  Procrastination only hurts you as a student and shows that you are not serious about your education.
• Set attainable goals:  Pick realistic goals and focus on accomplishing them.  Every success will give you more confidence to tackle your next goal.  If you can only manage to fit one business class into your busy schedule, for example, then just take one class and give it your full attention.  When a goal seems big and daunting, one of the smartest places to start is to break it into different pieces that will build toward the goal.  When you break it into smaller bits, each bit is more manageable.
• Time Management:  Managing your time is essential to succeeding in college.  Each class requires approximately 2 hours of study time outside of class per hour spent in class.  A time management tool such as a day planner is great for time management.  You can use a calendar, notebook or anything that works to help you track your time.  Time blocks can be designated for studying, homework, research, work, family time, errands, and a multitude of activities.  Balancing school and life isn't easy but it can be manageable.
• Attendance:  Class attendance is critical to your success because it is a supplement to your textbook and other course material.  Attendance affects your grade, and missing class when it is not due to illness or other extenuating circumstances is self-defeating.
• Homework:  College classes are taught at a very fast pace.  A math class that takes all year in high school is taught in one term in college.  Planning your homework and working ahead when possible are things that will help keep you on track.  Know when your assignments are due, and don't procrastinate.  Writing a term paper the day it is due almost always guarantees a low grade because your concentration is on getting the paper done, and things such as facts, citations, spelling and grammar errors are often overlooked.
• Have a personal investment in your education:  Ask questions and get involved in class discussions.  Learn your instructor's teaching style, expectations, and preferences for assignments.  If you don't understand something, meet with your instructor after class or schedule office time to go over what you need help with.  If you are getting low grades, seek tutoring.
• You are responsible for your education:  College provides a learning environment to students who want to learn, but it is up to you to go to class, seek help, study and ask questions.  Your investment in your education is what determines your return so make the best of it.  Think of it as money in the bank; the more you put in, the bigger return you receive.
• Care for yourself:  You're going to need to be healthy to succeed, so eat well, drink lots of water and get enough sleep.  Exercise is the best stress reliever of all.  If you can, ride a stationary bike while reading or discuss with a classmate while you walk together.
• Take breaks when you need them:  Going to school is a big commitment.  Feel yourself getting overwhelmed?  Give yourself permission to take a break.  That might mean closing the books, going for a quick walk, or taking a night off from studying altogether.  If you find yourself burning the midnight oil for weeks on end, work some down time into your schedule.  It's important to plan time to relax or you become less effective.
• Stick with it, don't give up:  College changes your life.  You will have good times and difficult times and the rewards are greater than the sacrifices.  The college experience is unforgettable;  it is a time to learn and try new things, meet new people and make new friends.  It takes persistence, commitment and dedication to get through college but you can do it.  Use your support systems to help you through the rough times, and don't give up.  When you make it through, celebrate your success and make a toast to your future.

Good luck on your fall 2012 semester!  Let us know if we can help you in any way!

Class of 2016

As we are gearing up to start a new semester and welcome all of the students back to the University Center, Beloit College has announced their new mindset list for the Class of 2016.  A brief bit of background information first about the mindset list.  This list was first published in 1998, for the Class of 2002.  It all began as a way to let people know the frame of mind that incoming traditional aged students had, also to help professors know that their references may be outdated.  To read this year's list, click HERE. 

In other University Center news, New Student Orientation will be held tomorrow, August 22nd.  For our veteran and military students, there will be a short session at 4:30 pm in room 112.  For all other students, the main session will begin at 5:00 pm in room 112.  Orientation is open to all new and returning students if they wish to attend.  The following sessions will be offered at orientation:

• Veterans' Center and Benefits (4:30 pm for all veteran and military students, new or returning)
• Overview of the Center and services available
• Academic Success Planning
• Study Skills 2 Career Skills
• Balancing Home-School-Personal Life
• Computer/Technology Support
• Financial Aid
• Open sessions with BHSU, SDSU, and USD representatives
• Student ID Cards
• Bookstore will be open until 7:30 pm (if you want to buy your books, please bring a printed copy of your schedule with you, otherwise you may print it in our computer labs)

There is still time to get registered for fall classes, but you need to hurry.  Classes begin at 4 pm on Monday, August 27th! 

USD is a "Best Buy"

According to the website GetEducated.com, the University of South Dakota's online masters degree programs are not only good but affordable.  If you are looking for a masters degree, check out all the programs that USD offers HERE.

If you are here in Rapid City, USD also offers programs through the University Center.  Same great programs, same great price; check us out today! Click HERE to see the graduate programs offered at the University Center.

Check out the best college and university affordable online degrees from GetEducated HERE.  Read an article about it in the Rapid City Journal HERE.

Congratulations USD!!

Olympic Gold Medalist Heading to College?

For those of you who followed the Olympics closely, you are familiar with 17 year old swimming champion Missy Franklin.  She will be a senior in high school this fall and is currently debating whether or not to become a professional or go to college.

In an article on the Huffington Post, she talks about her decision and how difficult it is proving to be.  Check it out yourself HERE.  Once you've read the article, come back and let us know your thoughts on her decision.  Personally, I believe she is showing a great level of maturity in how seriously she is taking this huge decision.

New Programs at UCRC

Exciting news at University Center Rapid City, we are pleased to announce that we will now be offering the following degrees from Dakota State University:

• Associate of Science in Health Information Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Computer and Network Security
• Bachelor of Science in Health Information Administration

We will be offering courses towards these degrees as well as options of classes delivered in person, hybrid, and online.  For more information about these degrees, click on the links above.

Want to know what you can do with a degree in these areas? Here are some examples of jobs that can be obtained with these degrees:

Health Information Technology

• Health Data Analyst
• Insurance Claims Analyst
• Records Technician Specialist
• Clinical Coding Specialist
• Physician Practice Manager
• Patient Information Coordinator

Computer and Network Security

• Network Administrator
• Security Administrator
• Network Manager
• Information Security Manager
• Information Security Officer
• Information Security Consultant
• Network Scanner
• Network Auditor

Health Information Administration

• Clinical Record Manager
• Patient Data Services Manager
• Health Information Services
• Health Data Analyst
• Insurance Claims Analyst
• Clinical Coding Specialist
• Coding Compliance Reviewer

For more information about these programs or to enroll, contact the University Center today at 605-718-4112.

UCRC Updates

Here are just some updates for our UCRC students:

Ready to order your books for the Fall 2012 semester? All UCRC students can now order their books online @ www.bhsubookstore.com and select the "Ship to UCRC now." You can then pick-up your ordered books at the University Center Bookstore! Don't want to pre-order your books? Stop in the UCRC Bookstore beginning August 20 to pick up your UCRC books then!

New Student Orientation will be held on Wednesday, August 22nd starting at 5:00 pm.  If you are a veteran, we have a session starting at 4:30 pm to help explain the services we have available as well as the resources out there for veteran students!  We are asking students to pre-register for orientation as a way of knowing how many people will be there and more importantly, how much food to order!  To register for orientation, click HERE.

BHSU will be holding a New Student Registration day on Friday, August 17th beginning at 1 pm.  If you are a new BHSU student and need to get registered for fall classes, register now to attend.  For more information and a link to the registration form, click HERE.

Finally, for your entertainment for the day, check out this Twitter feed by "Fake Jim Abbott," The Official(ly fake parody) account of the University of South Dakota's 17th President, James W. Abbott.  It is quite humorous and a good way to kill a few minutes when you really need a study break!

Holidays for August 8th

This post is of no use other than sheer entertainment value and to share a couple pieces of trivia with you.  The first holiday revolves around food, it is "Sneak Some Zucchini onto Your Neighbor's Porch Day."  Now I don't know about the rest of you, but we have one zucchini plant in our garden and it is producing WAY more zucchini squash than we know what to do with.  I plan on leaving several on front porches around my neighborhood tonight.

The second holiday celebrated on August 8th is International/National Cat Day.  For those of you that have purring balls of fur in your life, celebrate them today.  For those of you that don't, consider adopting a homeless cat...they just want to be loved!  Check out National Cat Day's Facebook Page.

Ready, set, go!

It's hard to believe that August is here and the start of the fall semester is rapidly approaching!  This time of year reminds me of a relay race as we finish our summer classes and get ready for the fall semester.  (Think Olympics!)   Like a 4x400 relay, we are entering into our second leg of race with the start of the fall semester. 

The first leg of the race is the summer.  During the summer, the pace of the upcoming race and academic year is set.  This is a time when all your preparation starts to pay off as you move into the academic year and the 2nd leg of the relay.

The fall semester is like the second leg of the relay. All the excitement of a new semester, new students, new faculty, new classes and new possibilities is when you know the race can be won. A strong second leg of the relay sets the tone and pace for the your success.

The 3rd leg of the relay is the winter break between the fall and spring semester.  This is a time when you have to pace yourself, get into a rhythm and focus on the next leg of the race.Your will to finish the race can be tested but the finish line is in sight.  Preparation for the last leg of the race comes into play to ensure your success.

The spring semester is the last leg of the race. This is a time when races (and academic careers) can be won or lost.  Focus is key as you head to the finish line (the end of the academic year or better-yet, graduation!) A strong start, and a stronger finish, will make all the hard work worthwhile! 

Your goals are at the end of the finish line. A new career, a promotion, graduate school or moving to the next class level are your rewards for completing the race.

Start strong, finish strong!

"I Didn't Set Out to Beat the World; I Just Set Out to Do My Absolute Best."
- Al Oerter (Gold medal winner - 1956, 1960, 1964, 1968)

Black Hills State University

Black Hills State University is South Dakota's third largest comprehensive public university with nearly 4,500 students, offering 72 academic programs at the associate, bachelor, and master degree levels.  BHSU has earned a reputation for transforming lives through innovative, high-quality academic programs and a dynamic learning community.  The BHSU main campus is located in Spearfish, SD but it has been offering on-site courses in the Rapid City area for over 50 years.  At the University Center Rapid City, BHSU offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees provided at convenient times in one accessible location.

BHSU offers the following programs at University Center Rapid City:

• Associate of Arts in General Studies
• Associate of Science in Advanced Manufacturing Technology
• Associate of Science in Industrial Technology

• Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Arts in History
• Bachelor of Applied Technical Science
• Bachelor of General Studies
• Bachelor of Science Education in Industrial Technology Education
• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with the following specializations:
• Accounting
• Management
• Bachelor of Science in Human Services with the following emphasis:
• Community Service
• Gerontology
• Probation and Law Enforcement
• Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications with the following emphasis:
• Computer Publishing
• Telecommunications
• Bachelor of Science in Political Science
• Bachelor of Science in Psychology
• Bachelor of Science in Social Science
• Bachelor of Science in Sociology

• Master of Business Administration in Applied Management

• Minor in Business Administration
• Minor in History
• Minor in Political Science
• Minor in Psychology
• Minor in Sociology

For more information about BHSU at the University Center Rapid City, contact Maria Hartung at 605-718-4112.

Dakota State University

Dakota State University, South Dakota's designated information technology university and a leader in integrating technology into the academic disciplines of its curriculum, is a public, mission-driven institution.  Academic rigor and the infusion of information technology into teaching, research and creative activity are at the heart of the university's work.

Dakota State University offers the following programs at University Center Rapid City:

• Associate of Science in Respiratory Care
• Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care

For more information, contact DSU Extended Programs.

Northern State University

Northern State University is dedicated to providing all students with a superior education. We welcome students from all walks of life to enroll, learn, conquer and share in Northern’s vision that encourages its students to 

be you – be yourself and develop your own interests,

be us – become part of the Northern community and reach your highest potential,

Be Northern!

NSU offers the following programs at University Center Rapid City:

• Associate of Arts in Applied Gerontology
• Associate of Science in Banking and Financial Services
• Bachelor of General Studies
• Minor in Banking and Financial Services
• Minor in International Business Studies
• Certificate in Executive Banking
• Certificate in Intermediate Banking

For more information about NSU programs at University Center Rapid City, contact the NSU Office of Extended Studies at 605-626-2568.

South Dakota State University

It may be a little later than usual, but I didn't forget SDSU!

Providing Access to the Future

South Dakota State University is committed to providing quality education no matter where our students live.  Just because you can’t attend classes at SDSU’s main campus in Brookings, SD doesn’t mean you can’t receive the benefits of an SDSU education and be a Jackrabbit.

By offering programs at University Center Rapid City, SDSU extends the same quality education to students who want to earn their degree while living and working in their home community.  Simply put, SDSU is here to accommodate lives already full of responsibilities.  We provide access to change the future.  Your future. The next step is yours. 

Here is a list of programs offered by SDSU at University Center Rapid City:

• Associate of Science in General Agriculture (Hybrid Delivery)
• Bachelor of Science in General Agriculture (Courses towards this degree)
• Bachelor of General Studies
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Bachelor of Science in Range Science (Courses towards this degree)
• Master of Education in Educational Administration
• Master of Science in Counseling and Human Resource Development
• Master of Education in Counseling and Human Resource Development

University of South Dakota

Just a bit of background information to get you started before the overview of the University of South Dakota.  The University Center Rapid City offers students the ability to receive degrees from five state institutions.  One area of confusion for the students taking classes or interested in classes at the University Center is that they are enrolled in the University Center, when in reality they are enrolled in one of the five institutions offering degrees here.  So, these students are University of South Dakota (or one of the other four schools) students at the University Center Rapid City.  Clear as mud or does it make sense?  If not, just let us know, we are more than happy to answer questions.

Now, on to the profile of the University of South Dakota!

The University of South Dakota (USD) is an academic leader in the state and region.  USD is South Dakota's designated liberal arts institution and its flagship university.  It offers more than 115 majors through its eight schools and colleges.  USD is home to the state's only Law School, Medical School, School of Health Sciences, and College of Fine Arts.  The Beacom School of Business is South Dakota's only AACSB-accredited business school, and the College of Arts & Sciences is the regional center for liberal arts education.  The University has been continuously accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools since 1913.

The University of South Dakota, through University Center Rapid City, provides undergraduate and graduate educational opportunities in Rapid City.  At University Center Rapid City, USD offers programs and classes designed to meet the needs of non-traditional students in Rapid City and the surrounding area.

USD offers the following degrees at University Center Rapid City:

• Associate of Science in Nursing
• Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
• Bachelor of General Studies
• Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences
• Master of Science in Administration, with specializations in:
• Alcohol and Drug Studies (online)
• Criminal Justice
• Health Services Administration (online)
• Human Resources
• Interdisciplinary Studies
• Long-Term Care Administration (online)
• Organizational Leadership
• Educational Doctorate in Educational Administrations with specializations in:
• Adult and Higher Education
• Pre-K-12 Principal

For more information about USD at University Center Rapid City, please contact Ben Krush or Frank Arpan at 605-718-4112.

What would you like to hear about?

If I had my way, this blog would just consist of ramblings of whatever comes to my mind that day, however...the purpose of this blog is to talk about the University Center Rapid City and the services it offers to our students.  So with that in mind, what do you want to know and read about?  Please comment and let me know what information you want.

Until I get some comments, I will embark on a profile of the programs and degrees offered at the University Center.  I will be starting that series on Monday, giving all our readers something to look forward to.  In an effort not to show favoritism to one school over another, I will be going in reverse alphabetical order.  That means the schedule will be as follows:

• Monday:  University of South Dakota
• Tuesday:  South Dakota State University
• Wednesday:  Northern State University
• Thursday:  Dakota State University
• Friday:  Black Hills State University

UCRC Job Fair

One of the top things students at the University Center have requested is Career Services.  Well we have listened and would like to announce the 1st Annual Fall Job Fair.  This fair will be held on Thursday, September 6th running from 3:30 to 6:30 pm.  The fair will be held in the University Center Rotunda.

If you are a student at the University Center, no matter which school you are enrolled in, you can attend this fair FREE of charge.  If you are looking for a part-time job, a full-time job, a different job or an internship then this fair is for you!  Make sure you come prepared to impress your potential new employer.  That means:

• Update and proof your resume.
• Develop a 30-second introduction of yourself and practice it!
• Dress appropriately
• Make a good first impression: smile, make eye contact, use a firm handshake and introduce yourself in a friendly manner
• Remember body language, don't chew gum, fidget or look around while the employer is talking to you
• Request a business card from the employer for later follow up

If you are a potential employer who would like to potentially hire some of the students at the University Center, this is the best deal you can find.  This fair is FREE to attend, you just need to register in advance.  Due to space constraints, we are limited to only 30 employers.  To register, log in to Jacket Job Link or contact Susie Leahy directly at 605-718-4142.  Please note that employers will be strictly limited to only half of an 8 foot table for their booth.  If your business has a large floor display, please contact Susie as alternate arrangements can be made.

Keep watching this page as we get closer to the fair.  All employers participating will be listed so job seekers can research the companies and come prepared!

3 Recommended Posts

As I was surfing the web, looking for a specific article, I came across several interesting articles to share, all pertaining in some way to higher education and/or careers.

First is an article done by WFTX-TV in Naples, FL.  This article is talking about the higher numbers of people who are going "under the laser" to have their tattoos removed as part of their job search.  One of the main things referenced is that because the numbers of people getting tattoos is rising, it only makes sense that laser removal is rising.  To read the whole story, click HERE. 

I don't know about all of you readers out there, but I will proudly admit that I am one of the millions sporting some ink.  I have never once considered getting it removed as part of my job search, however it is a small design that is on the inside of one ankle.  It isn't very noticeable and has a very special meaning to me.  However, I understand why some people think it might up their chances of landing a job if they have it removed.  It is a personal choice and really, there is no wrong decision.

Second, I found a video on CNN.com about how college can be more affordable.  One of the suggestions offered by the experts is to attend a state supported college.  Of course, as an employee at a state supported institution, I found this advice to be priceless.  Not to brag, but public higher education in SD provides an amazing return on what is comparably a small investment.  Check out this video HERE. 

Finally, an article from Huffington Post.  This article runs down the 10 most awesome classes offered at colleges and universities from around the country.  A couple of them include:  The Philosopher's Stone: Alchemy from Antiquity to Harry Potter and Stupidity.  Yes, you read that correctly, there is a class offered from Occidental College titled "Stupidity."  It is a fun and light hearted read, so if you need a break from whatever you're working on, check it out HERE.

7 Career Mistakes

Happy Monday!  For your reading pleasure today, I have found an article from MSN Careers, talking about 7 common career mistakes people are making, and need to quit doing!  In short, here are the mistakes:

1. Not making yourself indespensible.
2. Not maintaining your network.
3. Not increasing your marketability.
4. Being too humble.
5. Not keeping track of your career accomplishments.
6. Not being opportunistic.
7. Burying your head in the sand

Read the full article for tips on how to avoid these mistakes or how to correct them if you are currently doing them.  It can be found HERE.

Hope you all have a great Monday!

Happy Friday!

The University Center is a hopping place today!  We have two groups visiting this morning on top of the classes that are going on, not to mention a New Student Registration Day for Black Hills State University students this afternoon.  While I wait for my next appointment to arrive, I figured I would jot off a quick note to wish all our readers "Happy Friday!"

As one of the editor of this blog, I occasionally surf through the statistics on how many people are reading this, how they found us and what country they are from.  I was happy and pleased to see readers from several different European countries!  So for all of you, WELCOME!  If you have any questions about the University Center, Rapid City or the Black Hills; please do not hesitate to contact us.

Anyone have any wild weekend plans?  I know I will spend it driving back and forth across the state, again, but it is all for a good cause.  First though, my Corvette loving husband will be taking me to Spearfish tonight to stare at all the 'Vettes parked on Main Street for the annual Corvette Rally.

From all of us at the University Center, have a great weekend!  Try to stay cool and safe with the heat and wildfires happening out there.

Is college a good investment?

There was an interesting article posted on msnbc.com today.  The headline is "Fewer people see college as a good financial investment" and if you want to read it, click HERE.

Personally, I believe my college degrees were the best investment I could have made, hands down.  While the financial and employment benefits are the most tangible results of my investment, I would like to offer just a few other benefits that may not be so noticeable but are a HUGE part of what has made me into who I am today.

• A vast majority of my closest friends, I met in the hallways and classroom of my alma mater, they are the ones that I depend and rely on for wisdom, counsel, advice, stress relief, a good laugh or a good cry.
• Confidence in myself and my abilities.  Going in to college I had a small level of confidence, but there is no way the high school graduate me would ever believe that the college graduate me would be doing the things I am doing.  I chalk that up to the "college experience."
• Egotistically, I like to believe that I had very good writing, speaking, reasoning and thinking skills when I entered college, however through my classes and two degrees, I developed some amazing critical thinking skills and the ability to see big picture ideas.
• Acquiring an understanding of just how small the world really is and how hard people should work to understand one another.  This was probably the most difficult lesson I learned in college, and 95% of it happened outside the classroom but in the academic environment

I have an AMAZING job because of my college degree and it isn't one I could have gotten without it.  So if you ask me, yes, college is the best investment I have ever and will ever make in my lifetime (unless someone gives me a super hot stock tip and I end up making millions in the stock market, although that doesn't seem likely, so I'll stick with my original claim.)

I'd love to hear your feedback, what do you think about investing in college?

What your digital profile says about you...

Almost everyone entering the professional job market today posses some sort of digital profile.  What is a digital profile you may ask?  Essentially a digital profile it is your presence on the web.  Most job searches begin by someone with that company going to Google, Facebook or LinkedIn and typing your name in.  What comes up has the potential to make or break your quest to find that perfect job.

So, what should you do?  Tom Searcy, writing for CBS Money Watch recommends three steps to maintaining your digital profile:

1. Know your digital twin
2. Manage your digital win
3. Work on the digital twins of your team members

His whole article and tips can be found HERE.

Another article dealing with how to make your digital profile work for you was written by Steve Buttry,  Director of Community Engagement & Social Media, Digital First Media.  He talks from the point of view of a journalist, however the tips are applicable across the board.  It is a great read and can be found HERE.

Finally for your reading pleasure, I present a web page whose sole purpose of existence is to broadcast on the web people's various posts from Facebook, Twitter, FourSquare, Yahoo, Google and other social media sources.  Read the fine print at the bottom of the page if you are wondering how they collect this information.  The moral of this site is "We know what you're going...and we think you should stop."
http://weknowwhatyouredoing.com/

Happy Monday all!

Full and Part-Time Positions Available in Rapid City

Fastenal in Rapid City has two positions open.

The first position is a part-time Sales Support position.

Position Overview
Working as a part-time Sales Support employee, you must have a strong interest in sales and enjoy working in a fast-paced challenging environment.  This is an entry level position that offers a flexible schedule, working daytime hours Mon-Fri, and providing assistance to our customers from our store located at 1550 Samco Road, Rapid City.

The duties and responsibilities of this position are service-based and will present new and diverse challenges daily.  Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Assisting with sales/customer service
• Managing inventory
• Placing and fulfilling orders
• Receiving and shipping inventory
• Performing local sales calls and deliveries with company vehicle

The second position is a full-time Sales Trainee/Outside Sales position.

Position Overview
Workin in the role of full-time Sales Trainee/Outside Sales, you will have the opportunity to learn and grow with a leading industrial and supplies distributor.  This position will be located in our store locate at 1550 Samco Road, Rapid City.

The duties and responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:

• Developing and executing a sales plan in the local territory to meet/exceed goals
• Selling industrial and construction supplies business to business
• Conducting cold calls with manufacturing, maintenance, construction, job sites and other industrial accounts
• Maintaining and growing the existing customer base
• Managing account collections for assigned accounts
• Maintaining and growing customer inventory programs
• Completing required training within the training period

Training Program:  The training experience includes hands-on, on-line, and classroom training offered through our corporate university.  External candidates hired for this position will begin their career in a Sales Trainee program.  The training program for current employees who are promoted into these positions will vary based on prior experience with the company.

Position Qualifications
The skills and qualifications for both positions include: (* indicates qualifications for full time position only)

• 18 years of age or older
• Able to work up to 50 hours per week (overtime eligible for Sales Trainee position)*
• A strong aptitude for sales and desire to earn salary plus commission after the training period*
• A valid driver's license and the ability to meet our driving record requirements
• The abiltiy to demonstrate Company values of Innovation, Teamwork, Ambition, and Integrity
• Strong computer skills and math aptitude
• The ability to life, slide and lower packages that typically weigh 25lbs-50lbs and may weigh up to 75 lbs
• Possess or are working towards and Associates Degree in Business/Marketing OR have equivalent industry experience and knowledge of the local market
• Ability to pass the required drug tes (applicable in the US, Puerto Rico, and Guam ONLY)

To Apply
Please click HERE for the Part-Time Position.
Please click HERE for the Full-Time Position.
Both applications are due by Sunday, July 22nd, 2012

Welcome to the University Center Rapid City

Hello all and welcome to everything wonderful and exciting about the University Center Rapid City!  Through this blog we will be posting information for current students, prospective students, community members, and others who may be interesed in just who we are and what we do. 

Here are just some of the topic you have to look forward to:

• Guest posts from all of the partner institutions
• Messages from the Dean
• Exciting career opportunities
• Study tips and trick
• Upcoming University Center events
• Upcoming Community Events
• Guest blogs
• Random things that the staff finds interesting and wants to share

Enjoy your visit to our blog and if you want more information about the University Center Rapid City, please contact Susie Leahy, Student Support Specialist, at 605.718.4142 or via e-mail at susie.leahy@bhsu.edu.  Yuu can also check out our webpage or Facebook page!