Online Degrees

Thinking about an online program to get your degree — either as a new or a returning student — but still need some convincing? We have the top 10 reasons why getting your degree online is better than taking classes at a traditional campus.

1. You can study in your underwear. No need to worry about the fashion parade and keeping up with all the latest trends.

2. You don’t have to worry about annoying dorm mates. Need we say more?

3. No teachers will call on you in class, putting you on the spot to answer questions. Instead, you can answer discussion questions and problems from the distance of your keyboard — saving you anxiety and perhaps embarrassment.

4. You don’t have to lug around a gazillion, back-breaking books. Your home office is your classroom, and it lives where you do.

5. You don’t have to make up an excuse when you’re late to class. For that matter, you don’t ever have to worry about being late, as you take online classes on your own schedule.

6. You don’t have to pretend to listen during lectures. Online “lectures” often include written notes or video podcasts that you can read or watch on your own time frame during the week — when you’re really ready for them.

7. You can take tests in front of the T.V. Or participate in discussion or read lecture notes or study. Wherever your laptop can go, your class can go.

8. You can “attend” class when you’re ready. Most online courses require students to contribute to participatory discussions or to turn in assignments by a specific deadline (usually weekly), but when you complete the requirements during the week is up to you. So you don’t have to worry about being in class from 10 to 11 a.m. every Monday, for example, but rather, you can have class at any time of the day during the week that suits your schedule. That means greater flexibility for your social life or anything else you want to do.

9. You can work while you attend school. And we don’t mean a part-time job at the Burger Master that you squeeze in between classes. You can hold a full-time, professional position on any shift. Because of the flexibility of the classes, you can work any time you like and take classes any time you like. Who says you have to be a broke student?

10. If you have a family, you don’t need to worry about hiring a babysitter. The flexibility of class scheduling allows you to either schedule classes at a time when your child is in school or can spend time with other family members, or allows you to stay home with your child while you study. No need to worry about irresponsible and unreliable sitters anymore.

If you haven’t been back to school for a while, you may enjoy these back to school resources as a refresher.

All images are courtesy of Chris Magher.

Whether you’re interested in volunteering or working at a deeper level to effect policy change, the following blogs will offer you some information and guidance. You can find opportunities for ways to get involved, read about others’ experiences, or learn more about the underlying cause of some of the problems that need to be addressed.

Voluntourism Blogs

Travelanthropist

Want to combine your travels with volunteer work? This blog offers news, inspiring stories, destination spotlights, tips, guides, and resources in travel philanthropy and voluntourism. There is a global directory of volunteer organizations, as well as trip suggestions. Some notable recent posts include How to Pick a Good Volunteer Travel Company, What Does it Mean to be a Global Citizen? and Volunteering in Rwanda Beats an African Safari.

Voluntourism Gal

Alexia Nestora is a voluntourism industry consultant, and her blog offers tips and advice for those interested in combining their travel with volunteer opportunities. Some interesting recent posts include Voluntourism a Setback for South Africa’s Orphanages, Core Principles, and Voluntourism and Cuba.

GeoVisions

This extensive blog offers thoughtful discussions about volunteering abroad, including how you can make your experience count, how to find placements, and how to prepare for the work. There are links to useful resources, as well. Some interesting recent posts include Volunteer and Choose to Make a Difference with Civic Responsibility, When You Volunteer Abroad, Keep an Online Travel Journal to Get Hired and Volunteering Abroad Didn’t Work Out: How Do you Do the Right Thing?

VolunTourism.org

Volunteerism.org offers a wealth of information about volunteer travel opportunities, and this blog offers those interested in voluntourism tips for how to get involved, as well as thoughtful discussion about the movement. Some interesting recent posts include Putting the Voluntourism Experience Into Context, “What Are the Dangers of the For-Profit Sector Making Moves Into the Volunteering Sector?” and What Are the Obstacles to Corporate VolunTourism?

Volunteer Logue

Get tips and advice for planning your volunteer travel, and find airfare, hotels, insurance, and more with this comprehensive volunteer travel guide. Some notable recent blog posts include Geekcorps: Bringing YouTube to Developing Villages, Senior Friendly Volunteer Trips and You Can Represent 5% of Your Nation’s GDP.

Volunteer Vacations Blog

GlobeAware is a nonprofit that organizes short-term volunteer opportunities abroad. The group sponsors this blog, which discusses ways that volunteers can get involved, both at home and abroad, and features volunteer experiences. Some interesting recent posts include Photo Memories of Ghana During a Globe Aware Volunteer Vacation, Volunteer Vacations for Singles and A 12-year-old Volunteer Vacationer’s Perspective of a Globe Aware Experience.

Personal Volunteer Blogs

Rosemary’s Travellog

This personal blog of Rosemary Holden shares her experiences as a volunteer abroad. Her posts share her experiences not only as a volunteer, but also as a traveler. Follow along with her adventures and learn what life is like as a volunteer abroad.

Ashley Jonathan Clements

Ashley describes himself as “a nomadic aid worker with a passion for photography.” His work has taken him to Asia, Europe, the Middle East and other parts of the world, and his blog shares his experiences (accompanied by stunning photos), as well as his reflections on humanitarian aid and emergency relief work. Some notable recent posts include Remembering Haiti, Little IDPs and Returning from the Mouth of Hell.

Aaron in Azerbaijan

Aaron has worked as a Peace Corps volunteer in Azerbaijan, but he cautions that his blog does not reflect the views of the Peace Corps or of any government. It offers his view of his work and what’s happening in Azerbaijan. Some interesting recent posts include Why Do Azerbaijani Schools Teach English and Not Mandarin Chinese? Məhərrəmlik and Aşura and Hijab for a Cause.

Mark Fullmer

Mark Fullmer started an assignment with the Peace Corps in August to teach English in the Philippines. He writes about his experiences as a volunteer teacher, as well as other topics that interest him. Recent posts concerning his volunteer experience include Kids, Thinking on My Feet and Community Cleanup.

Renee on Ugandan Time

Renee is a Peace Corps volunteer that is stationed in Uganda until 2012. Her blog shares her experience as a volunteer living abroad. Some interesting recent posts include Recent Poll: If a Worm Crawled Out of Your Guava, Would You Still Eat It? Yes, Ugandan Nutritional Myths, and Lesson Planning Sucks.

Paix de Sara

Sara is working as a volunteer in Bamako, West Africa, Mali until October. She works with a natural resource management program with the Peace Corps. Her blog shares her experiences in the country, as well as poetry inspired by it. She often uses a narrative style to tell her story. Some interesting recent posts include Paying for Attention, Planting Trees in Place of Subsidies and Sweet Ghana Dreams at the Six-Month Mark.

I Can See Russia From My House

Bailey shares his experiences, “adventures and shenanigans” around Azerbaijan, where he is stationed as a Peace Corps Volunteer through December. Some interesting recent posts include Being in Community, Work Update – January 2011 and Better Know a Rayon: Balakən–Why Diversity is Important.

Tidbits from Tonga

Charity is a newly minted Peace Corps volunteer who just started her assignment in Tonga in December. Follow along with her posts as she discovers Tonga and learns how to adjust to life as an overseas volunteer. You’ll learn as she does on her two-year journey.

Where Have Charlie and Miranda Benin?

Charlie and Miranda will finish their assignment in Benin, West Africa, this summer. Follow along with their adventures and learn about life as a volunteer and Africa, in particular. Some interesting recent posts include Back to School, Good Times in Ghana, and Girls Just Want to Have Fun.

Felicie’s Blog

Felicie is a volunteer stationed in Morocco, and this is her personal blog about her experiences in the country. Check out recent posts New Year’s in Essaouira, New House and More and Conference on the Coast.

AZ Mac

Katie McSheffrey is currently serving in Mingechevir, Azerbaijan, as a Community Economic Development Advisor in the Peace Corps. Her blog offers a detailed glimpse into life in Azerbaijan. Some interesting recent posts include Embassy Thanksgiving, Pomegranate Festival and Another Typical Workday.

AzerbaiWHAT?

Lori explains, “This blog will show you how I figure out exactly how to speak and function like a human being while serving two years in the Peace Corps.” Her work teaching English and community development will end in September. Some notable recent posts include You CHEATERS! November Holidays in Qax, and I Broke a Rule.

Nerdy Nomad

Kristy has traveled extensively and has volunteered in countries including Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Indonesia and Haiti. She has even written an e-book, The Underground Guide to International Volunteering. There are plenty of posts about Kristy’s experiences, as well as her endeavors to make her income online.

Development/Aid Blogs

Good Intentions are Not Enough

According to this blog, “If aid is done poorly it can hurt the very people it is supposed to help. Accurate information and sound practices are also crucial to smart aid.” The blog aims to offer helpful information and resources to become responsible volunteers to do the most good. There is a “charity rater,” links to useful resources, a Q&A session, information on trainings, and much more. Some notable recent posts include Admitting Failures, Nonprofit Advertisements: What Message are We Sending? and Media Matters.

Tales From the Hood

This blog offers a collection of tales about life in the humanitarian aid industry from someone who has worked in the industry for nearly 20 years. Some interesting recent posts include Coming to Terms with Sean Penn (Well, Sort of…), Looking Back on Haiti – III: Crisis of Purpose, Crisis of Practice and Looking Back on Haiti – II: Failure or Success? There is an extended series on aid work in Haiti.

Aid Thoughts

Aid Thoughts offers discussions on development and foreign aid. Some of the posts offer in-depth discussions about weighty topics such as politics, elections, governance, and more. Some interesting recent posts include Wrong About China, Revolution in Africa? and On the Probability of Coups.

Owen Abroad

Owen is an economist who lives in Ethiopia, and his blog discusses humanitarian aid and reducing global poverty — as well as some personal interests such as running. Some interesting recent posts that discuss topics relevant to volunteers and other activists include Tech Tips for Development Workers (4): Online Services, How Can We Raise Awareness in Darfur and How Much Are We Doing for Them? and Could Donor Proliferation Lead to Better Aid?

Edge of Seven

The mission of this blog is “to generate awareness and volunteer support for projects that invest in education, health, and economic opportunity for girls in developing countries.” The blog promotes grassroots development efforts that focus on local, sustainable projects. Some interesting recent posts include Building a Future for Girls in Nepal, Join the D.I.Y. Foreign-Aid Revolution and It’s TIME to Kick Poverty Out of the World.

Lessons I Learned

The lessons learned on this blog are about running NGOs (non-governmental organizations), volunteering, living and working in Cambodia, and life in general. Some notable posts about volunteering include How Do I Know if I’m Going to Add Value in My Volunteer Placement? Voluntourism: What Could Go Wrong When Trying to Do Right? and Not All Volunteer Projects Are Created Equal.

Staying for Tea

Aaron Ausland offers “good principles and practices of community-based international development.” Posts are in-depth and offer thoughtful discussion about volunteerism and community development. Some excellent recent posts include Poverty Tourism Taxonomy 2.0, A Moderate Elitist and Poverty Tourism: A Debate in Need of Typological Nuance.

A View From the Cave

Tom Murphy started this blog as a way to share his experiences working in Kenya. He continues to write about development, aid, and health care reform now that he no longer works in Kenya. Some interesting recent posts include The Economist Compares US States GDP and Population to Countries Around the World, Technology and Haiti Relief and Ngrams of Africa 1800-2008.

A Humourless Lot

According to the blog author, “A Humourless Lot is a journey through the no-man’s-land between logistics, health, and aid work; it tries to make it less of a no-man’s-land and more of a healthy, thriving town.” Some of the most popular posts include The Professional Volunteer: Impossible in Aid? (And How About the Salaried Amateur?), Eleven Helpful Skills and Traits for Aid and Health Logisticians and The Unkindest Cut: Why Gifts in Kind are Often a Bad Idea.

Aid Watch

This blog is a project of New York University’s Development Research Institute (DRI) and is primarily written by William Easterly, a professor of economics and the author of The Elusive Quest for Growth: Economists Adventures and Misadventures in the Tropics and The White Man’s Burden: Why the West’s Efforts to Aid the Rest Have Done So Much Ill and So Little Good. Other contributors also write for the blog. Some interesting recent posts include Aid is Not Just Complicated; It’s Complex, Deep in the Sahara, Listening to “Feelings” and After Sudan, Should More African Borders be Drawn?

Bottom Up Thinking

The author of this blog works in the field of conservation and development, and posts offer personal perspectives from the work being done. Some interesting recent posts include Don’t Forget How it Was Before, Something is Better than Nothing and Proposal Prepostery.

Engaging Internationally

Bonnie Koenig, the author of this blog, has worked with NGOs that engage globally since 1983. She is also the author of Going Global for the Greater Good: Succeeding as a Nonprofit in the International Community. Some interesting recent posts include Internal Decision-Making Practices: Doesn’t Sound Exciting, But oh So Important, The Preciousness of Water and What Makes Someone Inspirational?

How Matters

Jennifer Lentfer, the founder of How Matters, explains that the purpose of the blog is to “revive and magnify compassion and empathy within foreign assistance and development aid.” She cautions that the blog will raise more questions than provide answers. Some interesting recent posts include 161 Indicators, and Then What? What’s Missing from the DIY Aid Debate? Overlooking the Capacity of Local NGOs and Changing the System from the Ground Up.

Find What Works

A grad student studying international policy and management writes this blog, which discusses international development and related topics such as politics, management, economics, war, human rights, public health, ethics, and more. The author has also worked with NGOs and nonprofits. Recent posts of note include Foreign Involvement in Constitutional Reform Processes: DRC, Rwanda, Kenya, Things that Work: Migration, Mockery, Meta-things and More and A Grad Student’s Guide to the International Development Blogosphere.

Be the Change You Wish to See in the World

The blog advocates what its name says: Social change starting with advocacy and volunteerism. Other topics discussed on this blog include humanitarian aid, migration, refugees, and international development. Some notable recent posts include Floods Damage and Needs Assessment Report, Pakistan vs. Haiti and 10 Pakistani NGOs I Highly Recommend for Funding.

Penelope M.C.

Blog author Penelope Chester has worked with nonprofits in locations such as Africa and Canada. “My interests lie primarily at the intersection of international affairs, economic development and foreign policy, with a particular focus on African issues and post-conflict reconstruction.” Her blog shares her thoughts on these and other topics. Some interesting recent posts include On Entrepreneurship and NGOs, Free Elections in Guinea and Investing in Women: A Human Rights Approach.

@laurenist

This blog offers up views on “international development without pity.” The author cautions “the posts here will make a lot more sense if you read them in the style of Stephen Colbert.” Some interesting recent posts include I’ll See Your “Change We Can Believe In” and Raise You Some COIN, The Invisible Hand Axe and How to Write About Issue Advocacy.

Roving Bandit

This blog claims to be “probably the best economic blog (previously) in Southern Sudan.” The author, Lee Crawfurd, used to be an economist in Southern Sudan and now works for Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA). Posts discuss foreign aid, economics and development. Some interesting recent posts include Southern Sudan: What Happens Next? 7 Reasons Why Urban Growth is a Natural and Normal Phenomenon and Agricultural Production and Global Migration.

Humanitarian.info

The manifesto for this blog states that the humanitarian industry is suffering from a lack of effective management, and that better information management is crucial to improving management and to support all aspects of relief organizations, making them more effective. Posts aim to foster discussion and provide information about relief work and how it can be improved. Some interesting recent posts include Look at the Philosophy, Not the Technology, Question You Might Want to Ask About Your NGO Coordination Body and I’m With Ivan Illich on This One, Sort Of.

Aid Worker Daily

Blog author Jon Thompson has worked in the aid industry since 2001, working with groups such as Doctors Without Borders and International Medical Corps. He also started an NGO in California. Aid Worker Daily offers information and commentary about the humanitarian aid industry. Some notable recent posts include Google Chrome – The Aid Worker’s New Best Friend, Map Kibera – The First Useful Humanitarian Tech Thing to Be Done in a While and An Open Letter to the Humanitarian Technology Community.

Aid on the Edge

This blog strives to connect those working in development and to “provide the latest, up-to-date information on initiatives, meetings and reports related to complexity sciences and international aid.” Some notable recent posts include Globalisation of Vulnerability, When Can Crowds Outperform Aid Experts? and Complexity and the Wealth of Nations.

Jina Moore

Jina Mooer is a reporter and producer who covers human rights, Africa and foreign affairs. Her blog offers commentary and analysis on these and other subjects. Some interesting recent posts include On Sudan, the View from Outside Africa, Is Development a (Waltian) “Bad Idea?” and Women as Anti-Corruption Weapons.

KM on a Dollar a Day

Ian Thorpe works at a large UN agency on knowledge management, and his blog talks about his work in knowledge management, aid and development. Some notable recent posts include 20 (Deceptively) Low-Cost Ideas for Development, Outside-In Development and Definitions.

Pulling for the Underdog

Dennis Whittle is the founder of Global Giving, and his blog talks about development and aid issues. Some popular posts on the blog include Bridges Made of Paper? CGD as Social Capital and The Tyranny of Ideology.

Texas in Africa

This is “an academic blog about African politics, security, development, and advocacy.” In addition to the thoughtful discussions and commentary, the blog also includes links to resources for ways to help. Some popular posts include What’s Going on in Rwanda? Show Me the Data and What Causes Badvocacy?

The Road to the Horizon

Peter is an international aid worker and “addicted traveler” and he shares these interests and others on his blog, which began as an e-book sharing his experiences traveling. Some “signature posts” include Aid is Dead. Long Live Aid. News: Cutting Agricultural Aid Research or How to Dig Your Own Grave… and News: The Global Food Crisis: The Perfect Storm.

People and Places

This blog promotes responsible volunteering, and aims to help readers find opportunities to match their skills and interests with community needs. Some recent posts include Isaac Booi – Funding a Classroom Assistant, News of the First Volunteers to Amar Jyoti School from Our Local Partner and Mistakes Let’s Learn From Them.

Non-Profits

La Vida Idealist

The staff of Idealist.org presents this blog as a way to “help bridge the all-too-common gap between good intentions and action” for those who are living and working in Latin America, or who wish to travel there, and who want to volunteer in the local community. Some notable recent posts include Volunteerism in Latin America: The Uruguay Picture, Give a Student Hot Lunch, and She’ll Eat for a Day…, and Planning a Fundraiser.

Quest4Change

Quest4Change is a nonprofit that aims to fight poverty and the destruction of the environment in Africa and South America. The blog highlights many of the group’s projects and volunteer work in those locations. You can browse by specific location if you’re interested in the different types of programs they sponsor according to region.

Hand Relief International

This blog is written by Dr. Alden Kurtz, the executive director of Hand Relief International. Kurtz shares thoughts on running a nonprofit and on development and aid work. Some interesting recent posts include Best Practices in Procurement for Hardship Postings, How to Land a HRI Job and Survive Savage Attacks on the Industry and Protecting Children – All the Way to Easy Streets.

Charity Navigator Blog

Charity Navigator bills itself as the nation’s largest independent charity evaluator, and this blog offers donors tips and information to make the best selection when considering a donation. The blog also offers commentary and discussion on issues and trends in the nonprofit sector.

If your blog was named one of the top 50, we welcome you to use this button to display the award on your blog.

Was your favorite left off the list? Let us know!

Now that you’re starting to think about your New Year’s resolutions — which are likely to include getting more exercise or losing some of those holiday pounds — it is the perfect time to start planning a new fitness routine that you can both work into your busy schedule and manage to accomplish in your dorm room (or with the limited resources you have available). Not only will regular exercise help you manage stress, it will also help you sleep better, maintain (or lose) weight, and cultivate an overall sense of health and well-being.

Because of their busy and demanding schedules, many college students say they don’t have time to work out. But research shows that short bursts of intense exercise have the same benefits as regular endurance exercise — and may even have more benefits. Researchers note that just one hour of intense exercise had the same benefits of a week’s worth of typical endurance or moderate-intensity exercise.

Jan Helgerud, an exercise expert at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, told The Associated Press, that four, four-minute interval sessions are recommended. That accounts for one minute of intense exercise (such as running or biking at top speeds) followed by three minutes of recovery (such as jogging, walking, or cycling at an easy pace).

“You should be a little out of breath, but you shouldn’t have the obvious feeling of exhaustion,” he told The Associated Press.

An earlier study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that a training program consisting of between four and seven 30-second bursts of “all out” cycling followed by four minutes of recovery three times a week for only two weeks led to an increase in endurance capacity from an average of 26 minutes to 51 minutes.

“Short bouts of very intense exercise improved muscle health and performance comparable to several weeks of traditional endurance training,” Martin Gibala, an associate professor in the department of kinesiology of McMaster University, told Daily News Central.

Intense, interval work also requires more rest days — so not only should you be performing it for shorter periods of time, but you should also do it fewer days of the week. Most experts recommend only three or four of these sessions per week.

Sample Workouts

You can design your own interval workout around any activity that you prefer: running, cycling, elliptical work, even walking. In general, you should aim for a 2:1 ratio of rest to activity. Therefore, if you sprint for 30 seconds, walk or jog for 1 minute. If you sprint for 1 minute, walk or jog for 2 minutes, and so on.

If you prefer to leave the details to the experts, there are plenty of sample workout available. Try out any of the following to get started on your fitness makeover:

From Oprah.com:

Warm up for two to three minutes.

Start your first 30-second interval. If you don’t want to run, increase the incline on the treadmill 3 to 6 percent and speed up enough to feel that you’re working hard. Let the 1-to-10 exertion scale (10 being all-out) be your guide. The effort should feel like an 8 (for the first few sprints) to 10 (for the final ones).

After 30 seconds, recover at a casual walking pace for one and a half to two minutes, and then do it again for a total of eight intervals.

Wrap up with a two- to three-minute cooldown. The workout will take 20 to 25 minutes.

Variations:
(Using 1-to-10 exertion scale)

Use these sample workouts for any cardio activity, including walking, running, cycling, swimming, skating and more.

Three-two-one

* Three minutes: Warm up at an easy (3) to moderate pace (6).

* Three minutes: Boost intensity (7).

* Two minutes: Push a little harder (8).

* One minute: Keep increasing your effort, and finish the last ten to 15 seconds as hard as you can go (10).

* Six minutes: Recover (4 to 5).

* Repeat the three-two-one interval.

* Two minutes: Cool down (4).

On-off

* Five minutes: Warm up at an easy to moderate effort (5 to 6).

* Two minutes: Increase your intensity to just shy of full-on effort (9).

* Two minutes: Recover (5 to 6).

* Repeat the on-off interval four times.

* Three minutes: Cool down (4).

From Body Rock.tv:

A short, intense workout that can be done at home or in your dorm room.

Browse the site for many more exercise videos to find other workouts that match your interests and your available time commitment.

From Kettlebell Workouts.com:

All you need is 12 minutes and a kettle bell to try this workout (which can be modified to do at home or in your dorm):

From Diet.com:

Learn to work out like a Shape fitness model with this short but intense routine.

Many more workout routines are available here!

From Coniki TV.com:

If strength-training is more your style, grab a couple of dumb bells and follow along with this routine.

At-Home Workouts

If you aren’t ready for the intensity of interval training, but you still want to increase your level of activity, there are a number of short workouts you can perform at home or in your dorm room whenever you have some extra time. You may have to buy a few small items of equipment, or you can modify the exercises to use your body weight or resistance, or by using items found around your house or dorm.

From :

30-Minute Workouts, including workouts targeted for abs, legs, cardio conditioning, and more.

We recommend the 30-minute home workout, which includes a mixture of cardio conditioning and weight training, and 30-minute leg-toning workout, which also includes a cardio component.

From Women’s Health Magazine:

Download workout routines straight to your iPod to perform at your convenience. This Total-Body Workout does not require the use of any special equipment (not even a mat) and takes just 15 minutes to finish.

From Home Based Workouts.com:

There are number of great workout ideas on this site, but we recommend that you take a look at Lose Weight and Get Fit Watching TV with this Home Workout and Britney Spears Workout Program Plan. See, even Britney got in shape using exercises that you can do at home!

From About.com:

Try this Total Body Workout at Home, which requires the use of some basic equipment, such as dumb bells and an exercise ball. The workout includes detailed instructions and photos.

Bridge programs are growing in number and influence across the country, helping students to close learning gaps or to become ready for the next level of education or to enter the job market. While their numbers are growing — through colleges and universities, post-secondary schools, technical schools, and workforce readiness programs — because they are offered by multiple agencies and their efforts are not always coordinated, there is no central data to show how many there are or what kind of influence they exert.

However, a report released last month by the Workforce Strategy Center has shed some light on the impact these programs have been making. The report surveyed 515 programs incorporating job-training efforts in 345 communities around the country.

“Bridge programs are suitable for adults who have reading and mathematics skills at or below the ninth-grade level,” the report explains. “These individuals may or may not have a high school diploma or GED. Most will have been out of school for a significant amount of time and are not positioned to succeed in postsecondary
education and training programs. Bridge programs are housed in community colleges, local school districts, or at workforce agencies or community-based organizations. Their services take the form of GED preparation,
English as a Second Language programs, developmental education, or Workforce Investment Act (WIA)-supported career-preparation programs.”

In its “Bridge program snapshot,” the survey reported that:

• 57 percent of adults enrolled in bridge programs had educational skills below the 10th-grade level, and 19 percent had skills below the 6th-grade level.
• 75 percent of bridge programs surveyed target allied health, with other programs serving those interested in administrative and office technologies, construction, information technology, manufacturing, and energy.
• 67 percent of programs indicated that their participants are likely to enroll in further education within six months of completing the programl; 50 percent said that their participants were eligible to participate in a degree-track program; and 39 percent said that their participants had earned some college credit through the program.

Meeting a Need

The report tied together the work that bridge programs are conducting with the changing needs of the U.S. economy in the coming years, in response to the current economic crisis and the changing market.

Currently, “the unemployment rate for individuals with less than a high school education is 15 percent. For people with an Associate’s Degree, it is seven percent,” the report notes.

In the coming years, those statistics may be more grim.

According to the report, “some predict that by 2018, two-thirds of the jobs in the American economy will require postsecondary credentialing. At the same time, according to the National Commission on Adult Literacy, 80-90 million adult workers have low basic skills and are not prepared for 21st-century jobs—they lack a high school degree or its equivalent.”

This number of low-skilled and under-educated workers represents a significant percentage of the workforce — the report says that “almost one-half of our workforce in 2030 will be composed of today’s working adults” — and finding a way to educate them so that they have the skills to be future economic demands is crucial not only to their individual development, but also to the health of the U.S. economy and to the nation’s ability to remain competitive.

“Over the last decade, bridge programs have emerged and are often the first step on the way to career-path employment in high demand, middle- and high-skill occupations,” the report says.

One way that these bridge programs are meeting needs in ways that traditional education is not is to “offer instruction at times and places convenient to working adults, offer a ‘learning-by-doing’ format and allow students to work at their own pace. Most programs are cohort-based, allowing students to progress through their classes together. The average class size is between 10 and 19 students; the average program length is 20 weeks.”

A Question of Deficits

Some of the findings in the report certainly beg the question of how post-secondary schools are failing students. Why do we have so many adults who do not have a college education or even a high-school education? If it is so successful, why is the common structure of these bridge programs — smaller class sizes, cooperative learning, more individualized instruction — not being used in the traditional classroom?

Steve Peha, the president of Teaching That Makes Sense, wrote a commentary in response to a story about the study on National Journal and argued that “Bridge programs are a 21st-century euphemism for boondoggles that try to make up for education systems that failed kids while they were in school.”

He goes on to argue that “we don’t need ‘bridge’ programs, we need education that actually educates people to the point where ‘bridging’ is unnecessary…. The mere fact of these programs’ existence means that we are failing. And the fact that we are apparently growing more of these programs suggests that we are planning to fail even more in the future. WHY NOT JUST TRY LEARNING?”

Peha identifies the problem as a lack of adequate preparation in post-secondary schools — that students are not learning basic academic knowledge, that they are not prepared to study in college, and that they are not being taught real-world skills that will serve them in the job search and in employment.

He describes the problem as “weak curriculum that doesn’t match the world it purports to describe; weak teaching that doesn’t bring real world knowledge and skills to students; phony assessment that says people are ‘proficient’ at something but can’t define what proficiency is in meaningful real-world terms; data-driven decision-making with data so bad we drive ourselves crazy making decisions with it.”

“My concern is that if we create new levels of ancillary support systems, our main system will do less and less each year,” Peha says. “In a decade or two, kids will just mark time until they’re old enough to drop out, and then head for a ‘bridge’ program.”

Peha’s argument assumes much about the reasons that bring people to bridge programs, and where those assumptions are true, I agree with his conclusions. If the reason people must turn to bridge programs is because they are not adequately educated in the K-12 system — students dropping out because they can’t handle the academic pressures because they never learned to read, students not being able to succeed in college-level courses because they were never held to proficiency standards and were passed along through the system without adequate skills — then bridge programs are not the solution, but rather a balm.

However, the problem is not as simple as that. Students arrive at bridge programs for a number of reasons, and there is more than one type of bridge program.

Bridge programs such as Upward Bound follows disadvantaged students through the educational system and provides them the support needed to make it through to a college education. Students with little or no family support and few resources are more likely to perform poorly academically and to eventually drop out of school. Programs that work to help these students while they are still in school help to prevent gaps in education later.

When students do not participate in these programs, and they later drop out, bridge programs can help them complete their high-school education and gain the skills needed to get a necessary higher degree.

Focus Adolescent Services identifies several risk factors for students who drop out of high school:

• External locus of control (i.e., being in agreement with others’ perceptions — believed or actual — of their individual ability, worth, or value)
• Low self-esteem
• At least one disability (e.g., ADHD, learning disabilities)
• Poor peer support
• Depression or other emotional problems
• Early sexual activity or promiscuity
• Substance abuse
• Having a child
• Must work to help support the family
• Single-parent home
• Poor parent-child relationships
• Family in poverty
• Neither parent nor guardian is employed
• Primary language of the family is not English
• A sibling has dropped out of school
• Parent(s) did not graduate from high school

Even a cursory glance at this glance makes it clear that the reasons students drop out of high school are complex and deep-rooted and are not always the cause of failings by the school system. Though the school system can address some of these problems by providing additional support through counselors and tutors, many of the problems are beyond the realm of school counselors and teachers. A more wide-spread effort is required that includes the efforts of government services and mental-health-care providers that treats the problem holistically — at the family, economic AND academic level.

For the students who disengage from the educational system for these reasons, bridge programs play a valuable role in re-capturing these students and giving them a second chance at attaining a valuable education.

Other bridge programs provide training for those who have decided to change careers or to change paths of study — a valuable service for those who have had to navigate life changes or even just a change of decision.

Some programs provide services for those who need help navigating the job search and the market. Though colleges and universities typically have career services, job training and office etiquette is not typically a part of the curriculum. An argument can be made for including a course on practical job skills — writing resumes and cover letters, learning how to interview, office politics, etc. — but it should not be the primary focus of the curriculum. Knowing the substance of the work is far more important than knowing how to manage co-workers, and there are enough counseling services and other programs to provide training on these skills.

The Future of Bridge Programs

The report made several recommendations for bridge programs based on the data collected.

“The following three activities are recommended: 1. Build a bridge program community of practice to share results and promote promising practice. 2. Implement a bridge program demonstration project that is designed to meet the national standards and evaluate the results. 3. Form a Bridge Program Policy Commission to review policy and practice at the federal, state and local levels and establish national bridge program standards.”

With the valuable work that bridge programs are doing, it is important to streamline their efforts in some way, allowing for collaboration and accountability. Creating national standards and a central agency to review and monitor these programs would ensure that they have a greater impact.

This comment comes from Julian L. Alssid, the Executive Director of the Workforce Strategy Center, whose study about the types of programs that help adults, primarily, gain the remedial skills they need to get ready for college courses or technical training is the subject of today’s Education Blog question.

What our survey, the BRT program, and a number of other undertakings are showing is that education in many ways needs, and is starting to undergo, a reboot.

Let’s be clear, this is not to say that education as we have understood it on the K-graduate level is bad, but rather, while society, economy, and technology have changed, fundamentally our educational system has not kept up.

What is needed is new forms of education, new methods of delivery, and new ideas that will change education as much as the web has changed how we communicate.

Take college. Until as little a 20 years ago, college could be a “right of passage,” and if you missed that boat you were most likely excluded from the highest levels of the American promise. No more. Today college has to be more relevant to future careers and more accessible to everybody.

But here is the good news, as our survey and other programs show, many in business and educators have realized they need to work together to make education more relevant. Not dummed down. More relevant. And as America has done many times, we can close our education gap and build the next stage of this story of our country through what we have always done better than anybody else. Innovate.

One of the best ways to learn about the everyday experiences of teachers working abroad is to read their personal blogs. You can get a sense of what the work is like, as well as the ups and downs of living in and adapting to a new culture. From these blogs, you can also glean what the working conditions are like in a particular country or school in which you might be interested in teaching. Reading these blogs is a great way to research the possibilities and, later, once you’ve made your decisions to work abroad, they are a great resource for learning about your new country and for finding ideas for the classroom.

Ted’s TEFL Newbie

Ted Tucker is a retired EFL teacher and trainer, and he has taught in Korea, Thailand, Taiwan and Saudi Arabia. His blog helps those who are interested in teaching English abroad get started. Posts often include advice on aspects of teaching abroad that aspiring teachers may not consider at first, such as being an overweight teacher, how socializing (and singing karaoke) can help you get a raise, and how to choose your career path (university work or private schools?). There are a lot of great tips and advice with each post. Some notable recent posts include Living Abroad is Not For Everyone?, Planning a TEFL Career Abroad: Your Education, and TEFL for Older Folks: Advice for the Job Search.

You Can Teach English

This blog is comprised of interviews from teachers living and working in countries all over the world. Some recent interviews include teachers working in Hungary, Chile, Colombia, Turkey, Costa Rica, Italy, China, Thailand, and France. Teachers share how they found their positions, what they do, and their experiences living in the country. The interviews share a lot of great insight for teachers interested in a particular location!

The Education Cafe

Parents and teachers living abroad can find resources and support here for the classroom and homeschooling. Some recent posts include recommendations for books, ideas for chemistry lessons and experiments, holiday activities, educational links, and more. There is also discussion about career development. This is a great resource for all types of educators living abroad!

Eat Your Kimchi

A married couple teaching in South Korea runs this blog, which is meant to help other teachers prepare for working and living in the country. The FAQ covers questions such as “What’s considered improper or strange?” “How do I get a cell phone?” and “What should I know about drinking culture?” There are also lots of pictures, useful resources, and, of course, blog posts exploring topics such as culture, teaching, and more.

Chris in South Korea – Travel and Life in South Korea

This blog is a great resource for foreigners living in South Korea! Posts cover practical issues for everyday living, such as Shipping Stuff Home — or, Help There’s No UPS!, 10 Survival Phrases in Korean You HAVE to Know, and Current Korean Slang Among Expats.

Thailand Delights

You’ll find the answers to many of your questions about teaching in Thailand on this informative blog — and maybe the answers to some questions you didn’t consider! Reader questions have included questions about age and teaching, discipline in schools, accent, and more. The blog includes links to job sites and some resources for learning the Thai language.

Tofugu

Tofugu explores “wonky Japanese language, culture.” There are episodes of “Tofugu TV,” as well, with some recent episodes discussing technology and travel clothing. The posts are informative and thorough. Some noteworthy recent posts include 10 Tips for Tipsy Japan, A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Learn Hiragana, and The 100 Most Important Japanese Words You Should Know. You can also search posts by category such as Japan, culture, language, news, reviews and resources.

So Handsome Teacher

There are a lot of great tips and guidance on this blog. Posts cover living in Korea, such as Having the Most Fun Tips (ie. How to Blow Your Entire Salary) and Money Management Tips (ie. How Not to Blow Your Entire Salary), as well as teaching, such as Effective Teaching in a Korean Elementary School, Confusion About “Severance Pay” and “Renewal Bonus”, and Tension Between Foreign English Teachers and Koreans. You’ll find frank (and funny) answers to all the questions you have about being a foreigner living and working in Korea.

Jonny on the Road

Jonny Finity teaches high-school students in Pohang, South Korea, and his blog chronicles his experience teaching and living there. Posts discuss Korean culture, as well as classroom experiences and activities. Some of our favorite recent posts include The Eight-Legged Playboy, sharing Korean expressions and their meanings; Evil Spirits: They Hate Red Beans, about cultural practices and superstitions; and Alliteration is Awesome, sharing some activities used in the classroom.

Postcards from Prague

Melissa has been teaching in Prague for just over four months. She shares her experiences teaching, learning about the culture of Prague, traveling, and even getting her visa. You’ll learn a little about the local history, a little about the language, and a little about the culture. Melissa even shares her experiences with TEFL training and her job search.

Kimchi for Breakfast

Danny and Katy Doerksen teach in Andong, South Korea, and their blog shares their adventures there. Reading their blog gives you great insight into what it will be like as a foreigner living in another country. Recent posts follow their experiences with the Lantern festival, a pot-luck Thanksgiving dinner, and Dr. Fish (a pedicure that uses tiny fish to nibble the dead skin from the bottoms of your feet!).

Teaching and Life — Not Necessarily in That Order

Learn about the joys of the jjimjilbang (public bath) and the hazards of not being able to find headache medicine at a convenience store in Korea with this fun blog by Audrey. You’ll get a window into the life of a foreigner here and pick up a few tips along the way about public behavior, language, and other Korean customs.

Wandering Solo

The author of this blog spent seven months teaching English in Vietnam, and is now teaching in Shanghai, China. You can read about Chinese culture and life in the classroom. Some interesting recent posts include 10 Things to Consider When Choosing a Teaching Job, 10 Things Chinese Students Think About Life in the U.S., and How to Be a Language Learning Role Model.

A Moment in the Sun

Follow along with this teacher on a one-year contract in Spain, and learn all about the culture, the ins and outs of teaching and a lot of new vocabulary! Some especially helpful posts include Links to Live By, Adventures in Tutoring, and Complication of Simple Things (about language barriers).

Adventures in Korean

“He who does not know foreign languages does not know anything about his own. ~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Kunst and Alterthum” So titled is this blog, which documents the year that Alisa Williams has spent teaching in Suwon, just south of Seoul. Alisa’s blog also includes some Korean words (for others also interested in learning the language), Korean resources, pictures, and information on responsibly adopting or fostering a pet during your stay.

My Thai

Though this teacher’s contract in Thailand ended in October, there are still a lot of great posts in the archives to give you a window into the experience of teaching and living in “the land of smiles.” Recent posts explore Thai markets, classroom games and activities, the experience of being a foreigner in Thailand, and everyday customs.

Kristina in Korea

Learn about Korean history, language and culture as you follow Kristina’s adventures teaching and traveling in South Korea. You can also follow her on a trip to China and the Great Wall! There are lots of pictures and some great tips and insight for foreigners new to living abroad.

Rip City to Seoul

In addition to his reflections on life in Korea, Dustin’s blog is filled with video, pictures, and useful resources about Korea. Dustin has also written articles for local publications about Korean culture, and he has started a show for his blog on Arirang TV. His blog also includes an FAQ for those thinking about moving to Korea and other useful blogs.

Teaching English in Korea – ESL Blog

This blog shares lots of great ideas for teaching English. Some recent posts includes topic ideas for extra credit writing assignments, suggested videos for beginning a debate segment, and other topic ideas and stories for possible debate.

My Life! Teaching in a Korean University

You’ll find lots of helpful resources, tips, and other advice about finding a job in a university and managing your classroom. Books, podcasts and other resources are also available in the links section for further research. The author has also created other resources for living in Korea and teaching ESL, which she has also listed in the links section.

Wake Up and Dance

Danielle started her blog when she was teaching in Thailand; she went on to backpack through Asia and work in eco-tourism in Thailand, and is now teaching English in Korea. Posts take a humorous look at Korean culture and the way English is often misused, such as this notebook, this subway ad, and this shampoo bottle. There is also a lot of reflection about living in a foreign culture, often with comparisons drawn between Korea and Thailand.

Chance’s EPIK Adventure

Chance is a teacher at an elementary school on Daegu, South Korea, and her blog combines personal reflections with stories about her life as a teacher and a foreigner living in Korea. Her post Voice of Korea offers some insight into Korean culture through an interview with a Korean woman. In the Mood for Some Puppy Chow talks about the Korean practice of eating dog. You’ll find many more interesting posts about culture and teaching here!

My Korean Journey, Unfiltered

…with the caveat “OK it’s a little filtered.” Although recent posts cover trips to China and Japan, this blog is all about teaching in Korea — or at least it was. The author has finished up a teaching contract in Korea, but there are still plenty of posts in the archives to follow the experience and learn from it.

Teaching Traveling!

Read interviews with teachers and travelers all over the world for their tips and perspective on what they do. You can browse profiles and interviews for tips, info about lesson plans, or just inspiration. The site also includes useful links and a forum.

Jimbo’s English Teaching in Japan Blog

Jimbo blogs about his experiences teaching in Japan, with a focus on teacher education. Posts often discuss classroom activities and pedagogy. Some interesting recent posts include The Problem with PPP, Adapting a Task to a Junior High School, and What Do Kids Get Out of Listening to English Picture Books?.

Teaching English in Wuxi, China

Andis Kaulins is a Canadian teaching in Wuxi, China at Hylite Language School. His blog also acts as an unofficial home page for the Hylite Language School. Those interested in teaching at the school or in teaching in China in general can find plenty of information here. There are videos of language lessons, sample discussion questions, and, of course, job postings for Hylite.

A Sistah’s Seoul

Toya explains that she was a member of SISUTHS Inc. in college — which stands for Strength, Initiative, Spirituality, Tenacity, Unity, Health, Substance. She says “This women’s oraganization has taught me to embrace challenges in order to progress in life. I am forever a SISTUH. Now I’m a SISTUH in Seoul.” She shares her adventures as a teacher and foreigner living and working in Seoul, the capital of South Korea.

Teach English Abroad in Korea

This practical blog focuses on what you need to know about living and teaching in Korea, including profiles of cities and regions, information about public high schools, positions with EPIK, shopping markets, and more. There are also sections according to where you are in your journey, such as “Getting to Korea” (information on airfare, getting a visa, and more), “Living in Korea” (information on food, language, news, cost of living and much more), “Teaching in Korea” (information on public and private schools, administration, your co-teachers and more), and “Finding a Job.”

English Teaching in Japan

This blog includes frequent podcasts, videos, and video podcasts “sharing ideas and experiences about English teaching in Japan.” There are interviews with exchange students and former teachers, discussions about teaching, stories about travel and much more. This is a lively resource for any teacher interested in living in Japan!

A Girl Teaching English Abroad in Japan

Learn about things like Pocky Day (in honor of a treat of stick-shaped crackers dipped in chocolate), toilets in Japan (they are holes in the floor), Japan’s summer clothing habits and more in this fun blog that offers a Westerner’s view of living in Japan. There are some posts about teaching and classroom activities, but most of the focus is on the day-to-day experiences of living in Japan.

Roboseyo

Rob combines his name with the common expression used to answer the phone in Korea — “yoboseyo” — for the name of this blog about living and teaching in Korea. Posts are in-depth and reveal a lot about Korean culture and everyday life there. Check out OK, Lee Hyori Gets it Right This Time for an interesting discussion about Korean pop music, as well as Korean attitudes about native Koreans, and Roboseyo’s Favorite Things About Winter in Korea, and Two Rabbit Trails for a funny look at winter in Korea.

From Busan With Love

Jenna shares lots of pictures and details about her adventures in Korea and in the classroom. She teaches in Busan, which is on the southeastern coast of Korea. Some popular recent posts include The Korean Talent Show, Love Land: The Discussion of Sex in Korean Culture, and Jenna Vs. The Bus.

Marshmallow Sensei

“Born in New Jersey, raised in Yorkshire, living in Japan. Don’t worry, I’m confused too…” Matt is a freelance writer and English Language teacher working in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. He talks about Japanese culture, including karaoke, Manga, fireworks and festivals. Other recent posts also share his experiences with the Japanese winter, traveling on a budget, and classroom interactions. This detailed blog will give you great insight into what it’s like teaching in Japan!

The Escapades of the Lovely Miss Edita!

The Lovely Miss Edita is a recent college graduate who is currently teaching at a public elementary school in Suwon, South Korea. She shares lots of great photos from travels and sightseeing around Korea, as well as the stories behind those travels. There is also a lot of discussion about teaching and experiences in the classroom, as well.

Well, That is Interesting Blog

Follow along with Christine’s experiences living in Korea, and read about Korean pop music (Life and All), tensions with North Korea (What’s Going On?), and daily life as a teacher (A Day in Life), among other topics.

Green-Eyed Geisha

This blog promises to show you “Japan like you’ve never seen it before from the skewed perspective of a foreign (at least to some people) twenty-something living with her Japanese beau in Tokyo.” She doesn’t work as a teacher, but there is enough here about the ups and downs of living as a “foreigner” in Japan to be of use to many English teachers.

Shotgun Korea

Follow the story of a couple who hastily got married so they could move to Korea to teach. (They were told that in order to live together in sponsored housing, they would have to be married.) Some interesting recent posts include Imports (about the differences in American and Korean customs), Applause (about the peculiarities of Korean bathrooms), and Should Have Known (about weight issues).

inhale. exhale. repeat.

Amy Kate shares her adventures teaching in Korea, ranging from misadventures with public transportation (Exploring in the Eastern Hemisphere) to classroom experiences (These Children Exhaust Me) to getting a physical (Healthcare – Korean Style). You’ll find lots of insights and humor along the way!

Subbing in Seoul

“A naive Irish freelancer and sub-editor negotiates Korea’s capital.” Though you won’t learn much about teaching abroad, you will learn a lot about living in Korea and its culture. There is thoughtful commentary and discussion about all aspects of living in Korea, from food and culture to current events to the language. Check out Jitters in Pyongyang’s Shadow, Drinking With the Islanders, and Rating the Beer. Many of the posts have a nice narrative style that brings to life the stories they tell.

Now I’m in Japan

Beth shares her experiences living in Tokyo with a wry look at many of oddities and other quirks that stand out about day-to-day life as a Westerner. Some interesting recent posts include Golden Gai, Children’s Toys for One Coin!, and Sick_Japan.

Taiwan Teacher

Posts here range from the practical ( What to Bring, What to Buy There and TTJ Bus: A Cool Thing for Taichungers) to managing life in Taiwan (Frizzle Frazzle and Keepin’ Legal). You’ll learn a lot from the more than two years this American has spent living and teaching in Taiwan.

Hungary is Alex’s Classroom

Alex teaches English in Békéscsaba, Hungary, and this blog shares his experiences and thoughts about his time there. Alex often uses a narrative style to bring the stories to life. Some interesting recent posts include How Lucky They Are, Why Worry, and Conjugate the Verbs or Learn the Words? Each post includes a Hungarian word of the day, also!

Caveat Dumptruck

Jared has a background in linguistics, and was a database programmer for many years. He has been teaching in South Korea since 2007 in different locations. He warns: “This is not an ‘about Korea’ blog, per se. It’s a ‘whatever I happen to be thinking about’ blog, that currently takes place in Korea.” But you’ll still learn a lot about Korea and about what it’s like to teach there.

Korea: My Life, My Story

Spenser chronicles his life in Korea as a teacher and the adventures he shares with other ex-pats. This blog gives a nice snapshot into a day in the life of a foreigner living in and exploring Korea — from everyday activities to travel in and around Seoul.

Tokyo Moe

Tokyo Moe has been living in Nakano, Tokyo with his Japanese husband since 2008. The blog is not about teaching, but rather about Japanese culture and life there. Moe explains the blog this way: “It includes my interests in male fashion and hair, male vanity and crime, male romance as created by women manga artists, ikemen and pop culture.”

This is Christie

Christie shares her experiences living and teaching in Hungary, with a lot of useful information for those interested in doing the same. Some posts that gives a good snapshot into daily life in Hungary include Sometimes Hungary is So Lame, Vidor Festival, and — specifically about life as a foreigner in Hungary — New Flat! (That’s Right, I Said ‘Flat’).

Mokdong Magpie

Sarah teaches middle school at a private Haegwon in Seoul. Her blog shares many reflections about teaching and living in Korea, as well as some advice and tips. Her last three posts were especially good: Christmas in Korea, explaining the Korean word “jung;” Letter to Prospective Teachers, offering advice to those considering making the move; and Easy Rice Cooker Gingerbread, with instructions on making gingerbread with the limited resources you’re likely to have.

Lauren in San Lorenzo de El Escorial

Lauren spent two years in Budapest, but now she’s in Spain studying for her Master’s in bilingual and multicultural education while teaching. Posts go back far enough to cover both her experiences in Hungary and in Spain.

Travels, or Such

Read about teaching and living in Tapei, Taiwan, as well as other travels including numerous locations in South America, Europe, and Asia. The blog includes numerous links to other resources, including helpful web sites, blogs and more.

Will Kill for Kalbi

The bloggers formerly known as the Kimchi-Lovin’ Canucks return to Korea after a hiatus after a two-year stint. The blog shares the experiences of this couple and their two children as they explore Korea and teaching once again.

Now that we’ve established the importance of learning a foreign language, let’s take a look at some resources that will help you learn and practice. Of course, textbooks and word drills are important as you learn, but even more valuable is practice listening and speaking the language. These podcasts will help you hone your listening skills and increase your proficiency in no time!

Spanish

1. Audiria

Audiria offers daily podcasts, which you can search by topic (songs, grammar, culture, books, etc.) or category (short phrases, idioms, vocabulary, tips, etc.). Each podcast includes a text file so that new learners can test their listening and their reading skills (and to double check accurate listening comprehension). Content is organized by difficulty level, and users can also register with the site to track learning. Other useful resources are offered through the site, including a wiki book and associated exercises.

2. Voices en Espanol

These conversational Spanish podcasts are meant to help those learning the language and those who want to become more fluent. Each podcast is accompanied by a short reading selection — often a bit of fiction or part of an essay. Between the podcasts and the accompanying blog, Eleena also offers reflections on various topics and interviews people of interest. You can also toggle the language on most pages for an English or Spanish text, depending on your level of proficiency.

3. Notes in Spanish

Choose from three levels of learning — inspired beginners, intermediate, and advanced — and listen to podcasts designed for your needs. There are worksheets available to help you learn the concepts, and podcasts can be listened to on the site or downloaded to your computer or mp3 player. A store and blog are also available on the site, as well as the free 12-page report, “Kick-Start Your Spanish.”

4. Espanol Podcast

Each of these weekly podcasts is accompanied by a written guide to read along with as you listen. Episodes have fun titles and scenarios, such as “My Ideal Man,” “Chimpanzee Brother,” and “Work Addict.” There are also episodes that cover puzzles, riddles, funny stories, grammar, vocabulary, and more. Listeners can choose to download episodes or listen to them online. The whole site is in Spanish — an added challenge — and there is an accompanying blog.

5. LdeLengua

This multi-faceted podcast is great for both learners and teachers. Learners can listen to it and test their skills, challenging themselves with advanced content. Teachers can learn much from the interviews with educators and other experts, as well as the discussions about Spanish education. Many of the podcasts discuss different tools and instruction methods, such as using technology and social networking for education. The entire site is also in Spanish.

6. My Spanish Connection

This Spanish survival guide is focused on travelers who want to learn basic conversational Spanish when visiting a Spanish-speaking country. Episodes often focus on a specific situation or need, such as what to say if your car breaks down, phrases for the supermarket, and vocabulary for emergency situations. Podcasts are often accompanied by a list of vocabulary or transcripts. The site includes a blog, and the author has plans to add a video podcast segment and interactive apps through iTunes.

7. Rolling Rs

This series of video podcasts help both auditory and visual Spanish learners: users can listen to the lesson and watch host Larry Keim write notes and vocabulary on a white board. Some episodes are very specific (such as a lesson devoted to the word “prestar,” which means “to lend”) or focused around a central point or lesson (such as a lesson on the past subjunctive). Other episodes are more general, covering broader topics such as informal Spanish, conversational Spanish, helpful phrases, and more.

8. Lingus TV

These video podcasts are presented as a parody of a television sitcom. Subtitles are provided, and supporting materials explaining grammar and vocabulary on included on the Web site. There is also a transcript of dialogue.

9. Study Spanish

These Spanish grammar podcasts are available to stream on this site or can be downloaded to your computer or mp3 player for portability and convenience. Only two podcasts are available for free; the rest are only available to premium members. The premium membership costs $9.95 per month, or $39.95 for six months.

10. Web Spanish

Beginner and intermediate learners can find useful podcasts here to help them practice their listening skills. Each podcast is labeled according to difficulty, and each covers a different language lesson, such as using the imperfect subjunctive, future perfect tense, and prepositions and adjectives. You can download podcasts or stream them from the site. There are also many more audio files on the blog, which has weekly lessons that include current events, key vocabulary and commentary.

French

1. Learning with French-Podcasts

Students of French can hone their skills by listening to these interviews and discussions of various subjects in French. Some episodes are more specific, and are targeted at vocabulary or pronunciation. Each podcast includes a transcript and translation, and users can search podcasts by category.

2. Daily French Pod

Most episodes of this podcast discuss a topic in the news, and are accompanied by a learning guide and transcript. The site includes grammar and vocabulary lessons, as well as supplementary exercises. The podcasts are free, but users must become members of the site to access all the materials.

3. French Etc.

This inclusive site has several podcasts devoted to learning French: one focused on a word or expression of the day, two for advanced learners, and two for beginners. There are four weekly podcasts, and additional materials such as worksheets are available. Users can sign up to become members for premium content.

4. French LingQ

French LingQ promises that you can “dramatically increase your vocabulary so you’re comfortable and confident in any situation.” Podcasts offer content for all levels of learners and topics include language basics, conversational French, social interactions, greetings, and much more. Transcripts are also available.

5. Fancy French

These podcasts offer a free online learning course that uses the Manesca method, which teaches formal, literary French. All episodes are free to listen to on the site or to download, but a small donation is requested.

6. Learn French by Podcast

Beginner, intermediate, and advanced learners can find lessons tailored to their needs in these podcasts, which cost a fee. Each episode includes a guide. Users must become paid members to access content.

7. Learn French with Alexa

This podcast includes 15 lessons aimed at beginning students of French. Episodes include a support sheet for lessons learned in the podcast. The site has not been recently updated with new podcasts, but the archives are still available for beginners starting out at any time.

8. Loic Le Meur

Techies interested in learning French will love this podcast. Episodes have nothing to do with learning French — they are focused on news and discussions about technology and computers. However, the whole podcast is in French, and for those who are interested in technology AND French, they offer a perfect combination and an interesting way to practice your French listening and comprehension skills.

Italian

1. Learn Italian Pod

These weekly podcasts each include transcripts, dialogue, a glossary and a quiz. Users can search by categories such as learning level, “five minutes a day,” culture, and more. Paid members have content to additional premium content.

2. Max Mondo

Users must register for free access to these podcasts, which cover topics such as dialogue, humor, film, and more. The site has a lot of additional content to support your Italian education — much of it premium content that is available for a fee.

3. Pastacast

This easy language-learning blog features a variety of episodes covering basic language concepts. Some topics include personal pronouns, numbers, pronunciation, spelling and letters, prepositions, and more. Perfect for beginners!

4. Let’s Speak Italian!

Each weekly lesson includes a review of key vocabulary or concepts. Users can directly download podcasts from the site. Also available are the first 100 lessons — either on CD or for download. The archives cost $15 and include all 100 episodes.

5. Survival Phrases

Going on a trip to Italy and want to learn how to order from the menu or ask for directions? This podcast can help. You must register in order to access the first 10 lessons, and the remaining lessons are available to members only. A lifetime membership costs $24.99.

6. English 24

This podcast begins with English phrases from American or British commentators (either political figures or those featured on newscasts) and then offers the Italian translation. The translation also offers discussion about the nuances between a literal translation and a more natural translation.

7. Ad Alta Voce

What better way to learn Italian than to read from some of Italy’s most respected writers? Whole novels are read aloud on this podcast, strengthening both listening and comprehension skills.

8. Il Gastronauta

Learn about Italian culture — and practice your listening skills — with this podcast about Italian food and wine. You won’t learn language drills, but you will gain valuable insight into Italian culture and learn from the everyday use of the language.

German

1. Pukka German

“Pukka,” as defined here, means “genuine, authentic, top notch, the bees knees.” These podcasts promise to teach you “TRUCK LOADS of cool German words and phrases and … HIP to the STREET LINGO that your German teacher was too SQUARE to teach you!” This includes slang, idioms, and common words and phrases. This is a fun, user-friendly site that is sure to rev up your German practice.

2. My German Class

Clark Shah-Nelson has been teaching online German since 1999. His video casts offer fun scenarios to teach basic German language and grammar. The site also offers online German courses, for different prices. The courses include additional materials, including transcripts in English and German, quizzes, and discussion forums.

3. Learn German with this Free Podcast

The name says it all. Each podcast includes a German lesson that focuses on basic vocabulary and grammar. Blog posts are also included among the podcasts, and they are often in German, adding a reading comprehension component to your learning. There are also occasional video podcasts, transcripts, and language exercises.

4. German Grammar Podcast

Podcast host Laura aims to teach German learners what eluded her proper understanding of the language for so long until she mastered it: Grammar. In addition to podcasts on standards such as adjectives and pronouns, there are also tips and tricks. Each podcast is accompanied by an explanatory blog post that highlights some of the main points.

5. Young Germany Podcasts

The Young Germany Podcast includes a “starter kit” with some of the most important German phrases for beginners, as well as a variety of listening and speaking exercises for more advanced German learners.

6. German LingQ

Here’s another great podcast from LingQ — this one focusing on German lessons for all levels of learners. Transcripts are also available for each episode. Users must sign up for a free account to access the materials on the site.

7. Slow German

For true beginners, this podcast offers slow-paced lessons that are meant to be easier to hear and understand. Additional materials are available — for a fee — that include important words and translations and multiple-choice tests. The site is entirely in German, so the beginners that is hopes to attract will likely need to use a site like Babelfish to navigate it.

8. A Flavor of German

Intermediate to advanced speakers can learn idiomatic German with this 10-minute podcasts. Episodes can be purchased through iTunes or in the Web store.

Chinese

1. Chinese Lessons with Serge Melnyk

This site offers theme-based, progressive lessons, which host Serge promises “means that you can start from ‘zero’ level and after completing this course, you will be able to speak fluent Mandarin Chinese on the variety of topics.” Each lesson builds on the one before it. There are also transcripts and worksheets, but users must subscribe to access them.

2. April’s Mandarin Podcast

Formerly the Learning Mandarin Podcast, this site offers several topical episodes that discuss news, health, science, and other issues as a means of strengthening Mandarin skills. Users have the option to have transcripts mailed to them for a monthly fee of $1.99. There are also links to useful resources.

3. Popup Chinese

Each episode is labeled according to the level of learner, and there is a short narrative attached to each episode. Podcasts are topical and feature discussions rather than lessons. Users must sign up for an account to gain access to the site, including additional learning materials such as flash cards and charts. An account is free.

4. Learn Chinese Pod

These beginning Chinese lessons cover basic vocabulary and simple concepts such as pronouns, use of the possessive, and rules for asking questions. All of the podcasts and transcripts are available to download for free. There are also links to lots of useful resources for learning the language and the Chinese characters.

5. World Languages Podcasting

These podcasts offer up conversations in Chinese about Australian culture. Practice your Chinese and learn about Australian culture at the same time! Transcripts are available for each episode, but they cost $1.99 to access

6. Chinese Pod Cast

There are dozens of conversational Chinese podcasts available here. Episodes are topical, and each is labeled with key words, functions, and learning level. The site also offers demos, a variety of more advanced courses, and training for business settings.

7. E-Chinese Learning

These podcasts offer beginner, intermediate and advanced Chinese lesson plans. Episodes focus on useful, everyday Chinese, such as how to order dishes in a restaurant, or how to talk to members of the opposite sex. The site includes much more learning material that is available for a membership fee, but the podcasts and their transcripts are available for free.

8. CSL Pod

There are sections here on language learning, pinyin (Chinese characters), culture and games. You have to sign up for a free account to access most content. Lessons can even be translated into English, French, Spanish, and Japanese.

Japanese

1. Learn Japanese Pod

Native Japanese speakers record these podcasts, which focus on everyday, conversational Japanese. Topics include ordering coffee, asking someone on a date, adjectives and color, going to the doctor, and much more. All podcasts and the archives are free, and there is a user forum for further discussion.

2. Japan Cast

These free video podcasts are produced in HD and focus on everyday conversational Japanese. Examples are taken from Anime and popular culture to make the content more relatable. There are also recommendations for other study resources.

3. Japanese Lessons

NHK World presents these lessons, which focus on important phrase and vocabulary through the use of conversation and scenario. There are also useful resources provided to support your language learning.

4. Learn the Japanese Language

There are podcasts included amongst extensive blog posts, all related to learning Japanese. Lessons focus on specific vocabulary and grammar rules, as well as situational phrases and language. The site is easy to navigate with an extensive sidebar of categories so that you may find the lesson that most suits your current needs.

5. Japanese Pod 101

Users must sign up for a free account in order to access the content on this site. These conversational podcasts are designed for busy adults who want to learn Japanese in a fast and efficient manner.

6. The Japanese Page

Beginning and conversational phrases are the focus of these podcasts, which include supplemental show notes highlighting important concepts. The site has not been updated in some time, but the archives are still available and useful for beginners.

7. Japanese Listening (Advanced)

This challenging podcast features natural Japanese speakers talking at a normal speed (read: fast) and using everyday expressions (read: slang). However, there are transcripts available, as well as English translations, so students can check their comprehension.

8. The Japanese Learner

This blog and podcast focuses more on how to learn Japanese than it does on actually teaching Japanese. Still, students of the language will find much useful information here by way of helpful ideas and resources. There is also a good bit of discussion about Japanese culture, always helpful when learning a new language.

1. The Wild Classroom

The Wild Classroom presents video podcasts that can also be downloaded for classroom use. Scientists and graduate students from around the world contribute to the podcasts. The site also offers lesson plans and useful links.

2. This Week in Science

This weekly podcast provides an overview of news and happenings in science from that week. Pocasts are available by download through iTunes or through streaming. TWIS also promotes a book of the month and shares science videos.

3. The Sounds of Science

The National Academies Press presents this podcast, which are 10-minute biweekly episodes that focus on the work that the academy is doing. Issues cover science, engineering, and medicine, and key findings and recommendations are presented.

4. The World Science

The BBC, PRI, and WGBH offer these podcasts with “global perspectives for an American audience.” The weekly podcasts discuss scientific news, and subscription is available through iTunes, RSS, or e-mail. Some recent podcasts discussed biofuels, lead recycling, and gene therapy.

5. Brain Science Podcast

Dr. Campbell, an experienced emergency physician, hosts this podcast about discoveries in neuroscience. Podcasts aim to reach a general audience, and Dr. Campbell “believes that understanding how the brain works gives us insight into what makes us human.” Some recent podcasts cover pop psychology myths, glial cells, and alzheimer’s disease.

6. The Naked Scientists

Here you’ll find “science radio and naked science podcasts.” Some recent podcasts include “Where does phlegm come from?” “Cosmic Climate Change,” and “AIDS to conquering HIV.” You can subscribe to or download podcasts, and receive a transcript of them. In addition to the podcasts, the site also offers articles, experiments, kitchen science, and much more.

7. Science Update

You can choose from a weekly or a daily update and can subscribe via iTunes or other podcasters or e-mail. The weekly edition premiers each Friday and is about five to 10 minutes, while the daily update is a one-minute “morsel of science.” Podcasts cover the latest discoveries in science, technology and medicine.

8. Slacker Astronomy

Podcasts discuss all topics related to astronomy, and interviews with researchers in the field are often featured. Podcasts can be streamed or downloaded. The site also includes a blog and cool Slacker Astronomy merchandise.

9. Microbe World

Microbe World offers a number of podcast channels, including This Week in Virology, The Podcast for Microbe Lovers, Mundos de los Microbios, Meet the Scientist, and This Week in Parasitism. Each has different subscription options and parameters, but they all offer a fascinating look into different aspects of the world of microbes.

10. Global Challenges/Chemistry Solutions

The American Chemistry Society presents this podcast, which attempts to identify the “most pressing sustainability challenges, and explore the solutions emerging from chemistry.” Podcasts are available by subscription from iTunes and RSS. Listeners can also download complete transcripts.

11. The Groks Science Show

This weekly show is broadcast on radio stations throughout the country and is available as a podcast. The shows cover recent events in science and technology and discuss how they impact daily life. Each show also includes an interview with a leading scientist, researcher or industrialist.

12. Lab Out Loud

Two high-school teachers produce this blog, which focuses on science for the classroom. Each week, the hosts discuss science news and science education, and they interview leading researchers and experts in the field. There is also a companion blog.

13. Science and Society

Podcasts cover a wide range of issues, including environmental issues, medical research and breakthroughs, nanotechnology, space exploration, robotics, computer science and science education. Users can search podcasts by category and can download episodes of interest. There are also numerous resources on the site for researchers and educators.

14. Skepticality

Sometimes science has to find truth by determining what isn’t true. This podcast takes a critical look at pseudoscience such as the paranormal, UFO reports, astronomy and more. Complete show archives are available since the show’s inception. There is also a forum, extensive show notes, and more.

15. A Moment of Science

These daily two-minutes vignettes are available as audio and video podcasts that answer questions such as “What do bicycles, footballs, and space shuttles have in common? Can you really learn while you are asleep? Why do some birds hop and others walk?” Users can listen to, download, or subscribe to the podcasts, and archives are available back to 2003.

16. Science Snaps

This partnership project trained a number of Scottish scientists to produce science podcasts, which are available here. The hope is to give scientists a place to talk about the work they are doing that has not yet made it into the mainstream media or news outlets. Podcasts are available by subscription.

17. The Merseyside Skeptics Society

These podcasts take a look at scientific issues with a skeptical eye. Some recent discussions consider evolution denial, magnetic feet, the Man in the Moon, and much more. Episodes can be streamed or downloaded.

18. Futures in Biotech

This podcast explores issues and developments in biotechnology through discussions with leading scientists and researchers. Shows are available on YouTube, as well as iTunes. The site also hosts past shows, transcripts, and a show wiki.

19. Astronomy Cast

The planets, space exploration, constellation, space history, and more are explored in this weekly podcast. An extensive archive of shows is available, and users can browse shows by topic. Podcasts are available to stream or download.

20. Absolute Science

This weekly podcast “digests the best stories of the week and highlights the science that makes these stories tick.” Some recent podcasts have included “Sex in Space,” “The Language of God,” and “Video Games: The Next Drug for Cancer?” Each podcast includes show notes or a transcript (or partial transcript), and users can download or subscribe to podcasts.

1. High Ability

The Ohio Association of Gifted Children manages this blog, which offers ideas and information for teachers and guardians of gifted and high ability children. There are also sections that discuss advocacy for gifted children, testing, and social networking. Recent posts discuss current events, possible curriculum revisions, pedagogy and grading.

2. Ingeniosus

Ingeniosus is a company that offers consulting, seminars, and more for educators and organizations serving gifted students. This blog shares some of that expertise. Posts include discussions about best practices, social networking, professional development, and more. There are also links to numerous resources and tools, according to type and subject. This is a great resource-rich blog!

3. Teach a Gifted Kid

This teacher blog includes thoughtful discussions about gifted education and the needs of gifted children. Some notable recent posts include If We Identify Gifted, We Must Support Them, When Was the Last Time You Thought About Your Educational Philosophy?, and Notes fromt he TAGT Conference ’09.

4. Gifted Exchange

This blog shares information about gifted education and current events, and aims to foster discussion that changes “American education for the better.” Discussions at times share opinion, pose questions, and offer ideas for educational practice. There are also links to useful resources.

5. Gifted Parenting Support

The author of this blog is a gifted-education consultant. Posts offer in-depth discussions about gifted education and advocacy, and how best to meet the needs of gifted children. Some notable recent posts include Thinking About Thinking, To Group or Not to Group…That is No Longer the Question!, and Returning Creativity and Innovation to America’s Classrooms.

6. The Gifted Kids Network

There are lots of great resources on this site — including useful links, classes, tools for students and teachers, and more. There are also ideas for activities, links to lesson plans, and discussions about current events. Here’s another great resource-rich blog!

7. Prufrock’s Gifted Child Information Blog

This useful blog combines thoughtful discussions about gifted education with links to relevant news articles, teachers tools, and other resources. There are some great games, activities, and lessons for specific subjects, as well as general tools and resources for the gifted student or teachers in the gifted classroom.

8. Irish Gifted Education Blog

Though this blog is based in Ireland — and focuses a lot of discussion on the Irish education system — there is still a lot of great information here for all parents and teachers of gifted children, no matter where they live. Two mothers of gifted children write this blog. Some recent posts include discussions about parental roles, the outcomes of gifted children when they become adults, creativity, and using social media.

9. A Gifted Journey

Kathee Jones, the mother of three gifted children, shares her experiences and thoughts about gifted education. Some notable recent posts include Where There’s Smoke… and Apoxyomenos and the Lesson of Biomineralization.

10. Gifted Phoenix’s Blog

Gifted Phoenix is consultant based in the United Kingdom. “This blog is based on the following three principles: Gifted and talented education is a global issue, gifted and talented educators can learn much from other countries, and other countries can learn from the UK’s experience in gifted and talented education.” Posts often analyze educational issues according to country, and discuss the ways that they are related internationally.

1. Be a Techie:)

Carol Broos is a music teacher in Illinois, and she incorporates technology into her classroom. She says, “I view music as the driver, technology as the car, and performance as the race.” Some recent posts reviewed technology for composing and for staying organized. The site also includes links to relevant Web sites and resources.

2. Music Tech for Teachers

Here’s another blog that focuses on the use of technology in the music classroom. Every post shares information about useful tools or apps for either the music classroom, or for helping educators manage the classroom. Some recent reviews include an app for home study and an app for learning chords.

3. Music is Not for Insects

Ken Pendergrass presents many thought-provoking posts about the state of education and pedagogy. There are also posts that offer advice, tips, and resources for the classroom. You can even find some inspiration in the shared videos.

4. Evolving Music Education Blog

Dan Shure runs a piano lesson studio from his home, and his blog shares some teaching insights and ideas for teaching students how to play the piano. However, this blog is useful for teaching musical concepts that can apply to other instruments, as well, such as note reading. And some of the practices and philosophies shared here can be adapted for uses beyond the piano.

5. Urban Music Education

Sarah Johnston, an “avid advocate for music education in urban environments,” writes this blog, which offers podcasts, videos, worksheets and study guides, assessments, powerpoint presentations, and links to other teaching tools and technology resources.

6. Music Ed Lounge

This blog is focused on teachers of beginning and intermediate music students, and posts focus on both public school education and private lessons. The author, Steve Engel, shares some of his practices in the classroom, as well as his thoughts about teaching.

7. Teach2Connect

Sarah Barton Thomas teaches K-8 music in Maryland, and she uses her blog to offer insights and encourage discussion about teaching practices and philosophy. Posts are thought-provoking and cover topics such as learning networks, professional development, current events, and more. Thomas also shares some resources and links.

8. Grass Lake General Music

Carol Vrotny, a music teacher in Illinois, gives an insider look into her music classrooms and the practices she uses. Frequent video posts show the children in action during lessons and other activities. Educators can get great ideas for activities, and see firsthand how effective they are with the children.

9. Things to Come

This blog is written by Brandt Schneider, a high-school music director who recently received a grant to use iPads in the music department at his school. Recent posts discuss the use of the iPad in the classroom, including the various apps and its use in lessons. Other posts discuss other classroom activities and teaching theory.

10. Espie’s Music Education Blog

Learning about music also means learning about all the great musicians who came before and set precedent with their work. Espie Estrella offers information about a famous or notable musician each day, as well as a short tidbit about “this day in music history.”

11. Tech Tempo

Mrs. Muench combines her love of music with “all things tech related” on this blog. Her posts share reflections on teaching, as well as ideas for the music classroom. And, of course, she shares a lot of tech resources and information, including podcasting.

12. The Piano Pedagogy Page

Here you’ll find a lot of great resources to help teach students how to play the piano. There are teaching materials that include flash cards, scales, rhythm cards, and more. Posts also cover pedagogy, technique, readings, inspiration and more. Though the site is directed at teaching piano, there is plenty here that can be adapted for a general music classroom.

13. Fun Music Company

This resource-rich blog shares ideas, tips, and inspiration for the music classroom. There are videos, links, resources, and more. The ideas you find here can be easily adapted to use for any instrument or age level.

14. Aileen’s Music Education Blog

Aileen Brown, a music teacher in Ohio, writes this thorough, thought-provoking blog that explores music pedagogy and reflections on teaching. There are also posts that include ideas for the classroom, such as games and other activities and useful books.

15. meyersmusic: Ideas for the Music Classroom

The focus of this blog is “to share fun and creative activities, games, visuals, and manipulatives for use in an elementary music classroom.” There are a lot of great ideas here for inspiration!

Your letters of recommendation are one of the most important parts of your college application. The assessment of faculty and other professionals carry a lot of weight, and if they vouch for your academic potential, it can help push even an average application towards acceptance.

There are several things you need to know in order to get the best letter of recommendation that you can:

1. Don’t be shy. Your teachers want to help you, and they will be expecting students to approach them for recommendations when application season begins. Don’t feel like you’re “bothering” your teachers. Many are happy to help you on your path to success — which they view as an extension of the work they have done with you in the classroom.

2. Choose from your core classes. Most colleges will look more favorably on letters from teachers in your core subject areas. For example, a letter from your history teacher will likely carry more weight than a letter from your gym teacher or art teacher. The skills you learn in your core classes are likely to serve you best in your college career, so an assessment of your performance in the context of those classes will say more about your potential in college.

3. Choose according to your intended major. If you know that you want to study art, for example, then asking your art teacher for a recommendation is preferable. If you know that you want to study computer science, a recommendation from your math teacher will carry more weight. If you plan to participate in athletics, a letter from your coach will be the most helpful. These recommendations will also be particularly useful if you are applying to a program-specific school (a cooking school, say) or are applying for a scholarship.

4. Ask a teacher who knows you well. Who can write better about your achievements than someone who has knowledge of them first hand? This may seem obvious, but students often making the mistake of asking just any teacher — a senior-year teacher who has only had a month or so to get to know the student, or a teacher who had little interaction with the student outside of grading his or her papers, for example. It is best to approach a teacher with whom you have had meaningful interaction — either through a significant project or through a series of conversations about your academic work and your goals.

5. Get supplemental support. If your college allows for additional letters of recommendation, or supplemental letters, by all means provide them. These can be from coaches, supervisors, and other members of the community who know you in some capacity outside of school or through extracurricular activities. The more support you offer for your application — and the more information you provide about who you are as a student and outside of school — the better your chances will be of gaining admission to your school of choice.

6. Stay organized. Different colleges will have different deadlines for the required materials. Make sure that you keep track of which letters are due at which times — and communicate that information to your teachers. Also be sure that you give your teachers enough time to write their letters of recommendation. Don’t put in your request a week before it’s due! Not only are teachers working against their own deadlines, but they are also likely to be writing letters of recommendation for multiple students. Show that you are respectful of their time, and make sure that they have enough time to give your letter the attention that it deserves.

7. Find the right time to ask. Asking your teacher for a letter of recommendation isn’t a monumental occasion that requires ceremony and decorum. However, it is important enough for you to have a serious conversation about your goals for college study and beyond, and how this recommendation ties into those goals. This will all help your teacher write you a better recommendation. Therefore, you should approach your teacher when there is time to have this conversation, not in between classes or as you’re passing in the hall.

8. Provide supplemental information. When you make your request, you should provide some information outlining your accomplishments and other pertinent information. Your teachers see hundreds of students each year, and even if you have a personal relationship with a teacher, it may still be difficult for him or her to remember all the things that you have accomplished in that class or in school. Even if the teacher can remember these details about you, providing this additional information may make him or her remember forgotten details that can help strengthen the letter of recommendation.

9. Don’t narrow your focus. If you are applying to several colleges — and you need two or three letters of recommendation for each — it may not be a good idea to ask the same teachers to write letters for all the colleges. A good letter takes time to write, and asking the same person to write several letters could be a bit overwhelming. If you can, limit your requests to only two or three per teacher. Of course, what is most important is choosing a teacher who knows you well and will write you the best recommendation. So if you don’t know enough teachers who meet this criteria, and you have to ask a couple to write several recommendations for you, make sure that you give them ample time to do so.

10. Follow up. As deadlines approach, check in with your teachers to see if the letters have been sent. Some will appreciate the reminder if their busy schedule has made them forget the deadline. You can also take that time to find out if they need any more information from you to write the best recommendation that they can. Finally, be sure to follow up after the letters have been sent to say thank you. That person’s letter of recommendation could well make the difference in your application status.