Choosing an Electric Guitar an Instrument Buying Guide.

Choosing an Electric Guitar an Instrument Buying Guide. A Breakdown of the More Important Aspects of the Electric Guitarist's Musical Instrument. ChaptersThe Different String Types on an Electric Guitar.  Different Types of PickupsSoundbox variationsVarious Types of BridgesChoosing a Guitar in Terms of its NeckFour Famous Electric Guitars!Want to buy a guitar pack but not sure how to choose one?Ibanez, Cort, Gresch, Fender, brand new or vintage style, rosewood or ebony, guitars come in a multitude of forms and materials. And whether you’re lefty or right-handed, an advanced or beginner guitar player, your choice of guitar is important for playing well and improving your skills…The string instruments that necessitate guitar lessons include a range of categories. Whether you play the folk, acoustic, electro-acoustic, bass or even the classical guitar, be sure to pay attention to the components of these instruments - and to their playability, the word guitarists use to describe whether their instruments are, simply, easy to play.Guitars might be classed by several manufacturing characteristics, which often vary.Whether you ch oose a famous guitar brand like a Fender Stratocaster or Telecaster, or an Epiphone Les Paul, you’ll need to decide on other elements such as the number of strings and rods and the type of pickup or bridge.The same goes for the fact that you must choose the specific amplifiers and accessories (tuners, pedals…) to achieve certain tones and guitar effects with your finger or pick.Are you lost?Don’t panic, luthiers and salespeople are skilled at giving advice according to what you’d like to do with your guitar. For instance, those who plan to go on stage or play gigs will need a different guitar - and different bits of equipment, from a gig bag to a concert-ready guitar amplifier - than those who prefer playing around a campfire with friends.So in order to decide, you can always take inspiration from the biggest guitarists in the world. Discover which electric guitars led Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and Keith Richards to success.Korn or Limp Bizkit. So as you might have guessed, this string variation mainly concerns hard rock groups, heavy metal, and experimental rock music - and is only worth thinking about if you are an advanced player.But how different could it be?Simply put, a low string tuned to B  is added to the strings of a typical 6-string guitar. And if you can picture the sounds of hard rock, you’ll understand that this extra string is key.The 6-string guitar is definitely a part of the history of the electric guitar, as is the seven string too!The 12-string guitarAnother type of guitar is often used by music groups: the twelve-string guitar.Perhaps you’ve seen one at the concert of a famous band? Or in your local luthier workshop or guitar shop?On this type guitar, all the strings on the six-string guitar are doubled. This means that you’ll find two E strings, two A strings, and so on. These guitars are particularly played in concerts  as they double the sonic volume of the guitar. Folk groups notably use these guitars to achieve a warmer , louder, and more resonant sound.The 4-string guitarThe last guitar category is one with four strings. We call it a bass guitar.The electric bass guitar was first commercialized in 1951 by Fender. They are tuned to one octave lower than classic electric guitars. Their strings are much thicker and turned in E, A, D, G.There are notably used for the rhythmic base of a piece of music or to lend a deeper feel to the tune.Curious as to which guitar is best for you? A teacher giving guitar lessons London or in another UK city can help!Different Types of PickupsWhen you want to get an electric guitar, you’ll also need to choose the type of pickup (pickups are part of the guitar’s components, just like the strings and neck) you’d like. This is something that the classical guitarist need not worry about.So there are 3 electric guitar types that differ in terms of their pickup.These pick ups vary the sound and effects of the guitar, when plugged into a guitar amp. Yet, it is a bit more complex than this too. Because the guitar pickups' sound depends upon where they are placed on the body and neck of the guitar. Usually one is placed near the bridge - this is called the bridge pickup - one near the neck, and one in the middle. The one by the bridge provides a much brighter sound than the one at the neck.You can flick between these pickups using pickup selector or toggle switch, which can either be three way or five way.Guitars with a single coil pickupSingle coil pickups were the first pickups used to create electric guitars. They’re notably found on Fender, Stratocaster and Telecaster guitars, and are essentially used for  country music, blues and rock’n’roll.Pickups change the electric guitar's sound dramaticallyWhilst they provide an incredibly rich and versatile sound - with good treble and mid ranges - they have always been plagued with a hum. Hence, the next type of pick up...Guitars with a dual-coil pickupTo obtain a grander sound than with the single coil pickups, certain musicians prefer dual-coil or “humbucking” pickups. These 'buck' the hum of the single coils - hence the name humbucker - by using two coils together.They are often found on Gibson Les Paul guitars - as well as on guitars of heavy metal guitarists.Whilst any guitar for beginners will probably come with the single coils, this guitar pickup can be useful for anyone who wants to play on stage.Guitars with both single and dual-coil pickupsTo take advantage of the two types of pickups, you can even buy a guitar that combines them. You will however need a bigger budget for this purchase. They provide a greater versatility of sound, meaning that you can play rock guitar, jazz guitar, and crisp rhythm guitar chords on the same instrument.What about other guitar components that might change the sound of your playing? PeterGuitar Teacher £12/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors EdgarGuitar Teacher 5.00 (8) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors PaulGuit ar Teacher 5.00 (12) £18/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors DanielGuitar Teacher 5.00 (3) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ToddGuitar Teacher 4.75 (4) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors SamueleGuitar Teacher 5.00 (5) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors KurtGuitar Teacher 5.00 (3) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors RyanGuitar Teacher £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsSoundbox variationsLike classical guitars, electric guitars can have different types soundboxes. Each one will give you a different tone quality.So its important to choose the one you need so you can innovate your own sound!Hollow-body guitarsWhen speaking of the electric guitar, we often imagine a contoured guitar chamber without interior space, in contrast to classic guitars. Imagine the shape of the classic acoustic electric or acoustic instruments, with the body shape like a dreadnought, parlour, or jumbo.However, certain electrics are made with a ho llow cabinet too - with their own soundhole.The hollow guitar body is often used for playing blues or jazz.But what’s the difference?Some musicians prefer this type of hollow cavity cabinet for the woodier sound it makes. And the sound resonates easier - meaning that you can play it unplugged.These guitars are often preferred by jazz guitarists. They feature two holes in the shape of an  â€œf,” similar to those found on violins, placed on either side of the strings.This is notably the case of the Gibson ES 150.Solid-body guitarsSolid-body guitars appeared in the 1950s. They are notably appreciated by rockers, who wish to minimize and control the feedback effect on the sound.This is your classic guitar sound and shape, with the pronounced cutaway, the selector switch, and the volume knobs. Everything from the Yamaha Pacifica to the Squier by Fender to the Gibson USA and the Fender Telecaster all are solid body electric guitars.Semi-hollow guitarsJust like for pickups, certain gui tars combine  the two types of soundboxes. These ones allow you to add acoustic resonance to the sound without using the high-volume feedback effect.The wood with which this guitar is made is also an essential element in the choice of the guitar. For example, instrument made in mahogany and oak will have different acoustics. As we said before, this is really important to know when you are looking through different guitar brands to find your first guitar, a new guitar, or the best guitar for you.How can you learn to play your guitar heroes' riffs?Various Types of BridgesBridges hold an important role in the tonal accuracy of the instrument. It is located at the base of where the strings are attached, and connects their vibrations to the soundboard. This attaches the electric guitar strings, which come across the fingerboard, to the guitar's body.There are two main types of bridges for the electric guitar.1. Fixed bridgesThese are the most common bridges and, as the name indicates, th ey are affixed to the soundbox and can’t move. Their immobility means it isn’t possible to change the pitch of the notes that you play.The bridge holds the strings firmly in place.The advantage to choosing a fixed bridge is that the strings are better maintained and get untuned less easily. If you are not interested in massive solos or the extended techniques of the electric guitar, then this is the best option for you.2. Floating bridgesThe opposite of fixed bridges - floating bridges - can be moved with the help of a tremolo bar or whammy bar. Moving the bridge from up to down allows you to vary the pitch of notes.To obtain lower notes, move the bridge towards the top. Move it to the bottom to obtain high-pitched notes. This system is especially used by hard rock and metal groups.However, there are two categories of floating bridge.The floating tremolo bridge is entirely removable. However, the strings keep it in place.The dynamic vibrato bridge is attached to the cabinet of t he guitar by means of a screw and springs.This is a great addition to your guitar if you are interested in exploring the different effects your guitar can have. However, if you are looking for your first electric guitar, don't bother with this. Because, whilst the best electric guitar will be professionally made, cheaper versions of the floating bridge can be a bit flimsy. So, watch out if you are buying a beginner guitar package.Do you know the different playing techniques of the electric guitar?Choosing a Guitar in Terms of its NeckWhen you are choosing your guitar, pay attention to the length of the neck.  This varies according to the model you choose.Neck LengthThe average neck length is about 63 cm. This can sometimes change by one or two centimeters.Although you might think that this won’t change the acoustics of the guitar,  guitar necks affect the tautness of the strings and thus the way the instrument plays.When the neck of a guitar is longer, the tautness of the strings increases. There will be more spaces between the frets and playing will be more animated.As such, guitars with shorter necks, although their sound is less clear, will play easier because there is less tension in the strings. The frets are less spaced out, making it especially easier to play for those with small hands.Neck TonewoodAnother thing to consider is the tonewood of the neck. This is an important term that we have explored elsewhere. It refers to the different solid wood that guitars can be made from.For example, you might want to consider a maple neck - a particularly common tonewood choice - or a spruce neck.Bolt On Neck or Set NeckThere are two types of ways that the neck of the guitar is attached to the body - called either a 'set' neck or a 'bolt on' neck joint. One is bolted into the body's wood, and the other is set with glue.The DoubleAnd for the craziest players, there is the guitar with two necks for your next gig!  This, as you might expect, is called a double nec k guitar. If you are feeling confident, try out a double neck in the shop before you buy it.This guitar has a neck with twelve strings on one side, and a neck with six strings on the other. This type of guitar allows the musician to alternate between the two types during one music piece.This is the guitar type you have seen the Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page play!A neck could equally have more or less sections and frets in function of its length.Four Famous Electric Guitars!To help you choose your dream guitar, take a look at the most famous guitars in the music world.The hard rock café displays the most beautiful guitars. It’s possible to find them all over the world, in every big capital. And even though some have trouble finding a buyer, others sell at thousands of dollars. Now let’s admire some of the guitars played by our music idols - from the standard Stratocaster to a Gibson custom.These are not for those of you looking for the cheapest electric guitar pack. Here are four from among the most expensive guitar models on the market:1. 1986 StratocasterThis model was used by the famous left handed Jimi Hendrix, notably when he played at Woodstock. It's the right handed full size guitar that Hendrix flipped upside down - giving it its iconic inverted body style.The original guitar is worth 2 million dollars today. The most recent models are valued at well over $3000.2. Washburn 22 series HawkThis is one of the 7 guitars used by Bob Marley during his lifetime.To give the money to a good cause,  Bob Marley’s technician sold it for over one million dollars.3. Stratocaster Hybrid (Blackie)In 1970, Eric Clapton decided to leave his Gibson guitars for a Stratocaster. By combining the best parts of three different guitars he obtained “Blackie,” his fetish guitar.And this altruist doesn’t hesitate to put his guitars up for auction for a worthy cause.4. Gibson SG de 1964This guitar model was used by the Beatles between 1966 and 1969  on the albums †œRevolver” and “White Album.”Now that you know all about the different electric guitar parts, from amps and pickguard, to the headstock and fretboard, we can focus on tuning and acoustics!For electric guitar lovers, or those fascinated by different guitar models, find out more about the components, sounds and other aspects of the electric guitar  here.

Our Top 3 Methods for Learning the Piano

Our Top 3 Methods for Learning the Piano Out of hundreds of methods to learn to play piano, which is the right one for you? ChaptersThe traditional methodThe simplified methodSpecialized methodsThere are countless methods for learning how to play the piano. And so many questions to ask: piano or keyboard? Private piano course or music school? piano lessons online or conservatory? Piano teacher or self teaching? Music theory or improvisation? Major scale or minor scale?On the Internet alone you’ll find hundreds or methods, each professing to be the long-awaited, miracle solution for learning to play piano in 10 days, or something like that!This article attempts to help you sort through the mass of piano instruction methods, and narrows them down to three categories, each one responding to a particular aim. Afterwards, you’ll be one step closer to playing that keyboard like Mozart!Which piano method will you choose?if you want to learn piano simply to play your favorite tunes, there are more simplified methods for learning to play piano in less time.These are mainly methods that can be mined from the in ternet, full of online piano courses and piano tutorials. You yourself have most probably even seen those videos on YouTube or Dailymotion featuring a piano player promoting his or her method to learn to play the piano in 24 hours.These videos resemble those rather dubious ones that promise you thousands of dollars each month simply by working from home. You are right to be skeptical of these “miraculous” methods (be especially wary of those labeled “free piano courses”) that are coated in exaggerated marketing promises.However, there might be some truth in these miracle piano instruction methods: it can be possible to learn to play piano tunes through intuitive means rather quickly without learning solfege. The underlying principle consists in imitating another person who is playing. While it’s impossible to learn complex piano pieces this way, you’ll be able to play piano music with struck chords, or simplified versions of a score, for instance (i.e. Mary Had a Little Lamb and Ode to Joy). This method is efficient but does require a high level of concentration and a strong memory.Don't fall for those videos that say even cats can learn to play piano!Learn improvisation on the pianoThere are other “miracle” methods for learning how to play the pianos in several days. Although obviously exaggerated, is it possible?  Music is composed of chords and chord progressions: they follow one another according to a certain logic that most people could learn. This even applies to improvisation!In a given piano scale (the scale of D major for example), each note and each chord constructed on this note has a precise function. For instance, in C major, the C chord has a tonic function (the first scale degree of a diatonic scale). The note G is the dominant degree of C major (a dominant seventh chord).Then there is the subdominant chord, the fourth tonal degree of the diatonic scale: in C major, it’s the F chord. These three chords: tonic, dominant and subd ominant will allow you to improvise music pieces with little difficulty!The idea is to play a sequence of three chords with the left hand and improvise melodies with the right hand, in using all the notes of the scale. Gradually, you’ll learn new scales to diversify your piano chords and achieve modulations.There are no right or wrong methods, it all depends on your end goal!If you want to learn to play piano seriously, to deeply understand music, play complex pieces (classical and otherwise), and perhaps become a professional musician, you’ll quickly find this simplified method too limiting.Are you aiming to be a piano virtuoso?This method is advantageous only if your objectives are modest. However, methods are not always contradicting. You can just as well work using simplified and intuitive methods while learning solfege on the side (with a piano instructor from Superprof for instance).Specialized methodsAs we all know, there are many music genres! On the piano, you can learn to play all of them, from classical music to jazz, blues, variety and more.Whether you study classical music, variety or jazz improvisation, you will be using the same notes, the same chords, and most of the same rules, etc. So it’s relatively possible to go from one style to the next, and to learn piano tunes in several different music genres.Despite this, we recommend choosing one training method for the piano that corresponds to your musical aspirations. In jazz for example, the system of decoding chords uses an American system. But more to the point, jazz is an art of improvisation. And one won’t necessarily learn to improvise while studying classical music. Jazz piano training calls for a specific pedagogical instruction, a training method based on improvisation, and a harmony-driven understanding of music. Some classical musicians have very little knowledge of tonality, while it’s pretty much inconceivable to learn jazz without working on harmony. Classical music has it s own specific learning techniques, of course.Is jazz piano your thing, à la McCoy Tyner?Your chosen method of learning how to play piano will depend on your aims and the type of music you’d like to learn to play. Your chosen music style will also dictate the difficulty level of instruction.Learning to play variety music tunes  is simpler than learning a classical music score by Shubert or Brahms, because of the focus on plucked chord progressions played by the left hand, for instance. This is a bit of a stereotype, of course: some pieces of classical music are easy to play, and certain variety songs quite complex.There are methods for every style: traditional methods for classical music jazz methods and variety music methods, etc. You can learn all the musical style you desire by working at home and teaching yourself. But they share one major similarity: each method requires motivation in order to learn to play piano.You can play whatever your wish with motivation! But to retain your motivation and overcome challenges that you’ll meet along the way, working with a private music instructor in a piano lesson is your best option.And you won’t regret it! The advantages of piano playing are numerous (in terms of concentration, memory, relaxation, to name but a few). So what are you doing here, your baby grand is waiting!

The PSAT Your First Step to SAT ACT Success

The PSAT Your First Step to SAT ACT Success ACT SAT Prep and College Admissions Blog This fall, many high school juniorsâ€"â€"and even some sophomoresâ€"â€"will take the PSAT. In all likelihood, this will be their first experience with standardized college admissions exams. You may have heard that students’ PSAT results “don’t count” and “don’t matter.” While it’s true for most students that college admissions committees won’t use PSAT scores to gauge their college readiness (that is, after all, what the SAT and ACT are for), the view that the PSAT doesn’t matter at all is both shortsighted and counterproductive. In truth, PSAT scores can provide valuable insight into your strengths and weaknesses; when used correctly, the results can help students take a big first step toward success on the SAT and ACT. But what do we mean when we say used correctly? There are several ways to take advantage of your scores, some more practical and valuable than others. Here are three tips for getting everything you can out of the data on your PSAT report. 1. Don’t get too distracted by the overall section scores; instead, focus on the detail. The highest-level scores provided by your PSAT report will be in the form of two numbers, each out of 760: your Math score, and your Evidence-Based Reading Writing (ERW) scores. (Note that on the SAT, both of these are scored out of 800.) Students and parents tend to obsess over these scores, forgetting about the other numbers the PSAT report provides. While they do suggest something about overall performance, these numbers are not terribly revealing. Instead of focusing on your 540 in Reading Writing and your 580 on Math, pay closer attention to your subscores, listed on a scale from 0 to 15. These scores reveal more specific areas of strength and weakness. For example, let’s suppose you do score a 580 on the Math. That number alone tells you that you are “above average” (average for juniors is around a 510), but not much else. The subscores, however, can reveal where that 580 came fro m. Perhaps your “Problem Solving and Data Analysis” subscore was a very strong 12 out of 15, but your “Heart of Algebra” score was an 8. This immediately reveals that you need to direct your focus toward reinforcing your algebra skills, which include interpreting, creating, and rearranging equations and expressions. 2. Make a list of topics you need to work on; use the test to isolate examples. It will be easier for you to formulate a prep plan if you translate the information within your PSAT score report into your own summary. Use your subscores to assemble a list of topics that disproportionately impacted your score. Furthermore, take a look at the answer sheet provided on the final page of the report to isolate the specific questions you found difficult. You’ll have your test booklet, so you will be able to see the exact questions you could not answer or that you answered incorrectly. Consider taking pictures of these questions with your phone, or even printing them out and pasting them into a notebook. Now, you have a suite of problems and questions that will form the basis of your prep. And by the way, even if you’re planning on sticking to the ACT, know that the (P)SAT and ACT share lots of content: the subscore categories presented by your PSAT report are just as likely to reveal pot ential strengths and weaknesses on the ACT. 3. Use the scores to establish a baseline and formulate goals. Realistic expectations and goals are are both very important. Assuming you put in a decent effort while taking the PSAT, your scores reflect where you stand without any concerted prep. Now, you can use the report to begin planning. How many topics must you focus on to increase your scores? How much time are you prepared to dedicate to SAT or ACT prep? Do your initial scores suggest you may benefit from a prep course setting (students who score around average are more likely to benefit from multi-student group courses than are students whose scores are on the extremes), or would small-group or private tutoring be more productive? Is your goal to increase your score by 50 points, or by 300 points? On which section can you focus to maximize the points earned for the time spent studying? The answers to all of these questions lie within your report: you simply have to use the data at your fingertips. Remember: though the PSAT may seem inconsequential, the information it provides can be extremely helpful in raising your scores. Using the PSAT to develop positive and proactive momentum can mean the difference between productive, meaningful prep and last-minute frantic cramming. So take advantage of all the PSAT report has to offerâ€"â€"when all is said and done, you’ll thank yourself for doing so. -Evan Wessler, Vice President of Educationâ€"â€"Method Test Prep

Get Ready Ten Final Exam Study Tips

Get Ready Ten Final Exam Study Tips The end of the term is quickly approaching and theres no better time than now to evaluate helpful study tips for final exams. Youve worked hard for months and nows the opportunity to display what youve learned. Understanding what works best for you when you study, and how to make the most of your study sessions, will ensure you pass the exams with flying colors. It is important to remember that no two students are alike and you need to find the study tips that work best for you. There are, however, general pieces of advice that apply to all students and may help in preparing for your final exams. Find your perfect place Evaluate the space youre currently studying in. Does it fit your study style and provide a productive environment? If you think your study space is lacking it may be time to make a switch. Consider visiting a quiet library, an isolated corner of a coffee shop, or rearranging your bedroom to provide the space you need. Join a group While some students study better alone, joining a study group can be incredibly beneficial. If you learn best with others consider forming a study group with students from your class. Set guidelines with the group at the onset to ensure everyone is working toward the same goals and the sessions are productive. Huntington Learning Centers offer study skills and tutoring support in a variety of settings. There may be an established tutoring group, led by a professional, already in place at a learning center near you. Take a practice test (or two) You can evaluate your exam readiness by taking a practice test. This is a great way to determine how prepared you are and what studying still needs to occur. Ask your teachers early if there are sample tests, or forms from previous years, that you can use. Stay rested and avoid hunger Its simple, really. Get plenty of sleep each night and make sure youre eating balanced, healthy meals. Your brain wont function to its maximum potential if you arent taking proper care of your body. Stick with what works Determine how you learn best and stick with it. If you are a visual learner spend time rereading your notes and reviewing charts, diagrams, and graphic organizers. If you are more of an auditory learner consider taping lectures or in-class explanations for additional review. Plan your study blocks Make a weekly schedule that provides an appropriate amount of study time. Stick to this schedule and ensure that you are spending time studying each subject in preparation for exams. Stay organized Establish an organization system that allows you to focus on studying and removes the distraction of disorganization. Keep your classroom notes and study materials for each subject together and routinely remove unnecessary items from binders, folders, and your backpack. Alternate subjectsOnce youve created your weekly study schedule determine how youll align studying for each subject. Many students find alternating subjects helps them retain more information than focusing on a single subject for an extended period of time. Avoid cramming Start studying for final exams several weeks before testing begins. Waiting to study will result in cramming for the exam and will prevent you from retaining material. Cramming may also impact your rest and nutrition and can be avoided by sticking to an established study schedule. Ask for help Knowwhen you need help! There is nothing wrong with asking for assistance or support when studying for exams. Talk to your teachers, friends, and parents when you are feeling confused or overwhelmed. Huntington Learning Centers can also provide professional assistance in advance of your final exams. These personalized tutoring sessions may be just the boost you need to succeed!

Did you Ditch the Clichs this Mothers Day

Did you Ditch the Clichs this Mother's Day Jill and Polly in the Bathroom, 1987 (Courtesy of Tina Barney) Mother’s Day can be one of the most stressful days of the year. Why, you might ask? Mothers everywhere have a trick up their sleeve. Not to say they’re purposefully being sneaky or conniving but, realistically, mothers give up so much for their children. They say they don’t want anything: No, please do not get me anything for Mother’s Day. I don’t need it. I don’t want you spending money on me. Let’s just say my mother did not move from her new foot massager for a good two hours after opening it. I didn’t hear any complaints. Alongside the gift situation and the cards smeared with wet ink from being written in a dangerously close proximity to the time the card was delivered, how do you spice up Mother’s Day? Our mothers do so much for usâ€"sometimes too much for us. They deserve at least a day of fun! Ditch the clichésâ€"How many years in a row can you go out for a Mother’s Day brunch before you eventually regurgitate the same brunch you’ve been having for the last 19 years? Hit the Roadâ€"This year, my family hopped in the car after Mother was forcibly removed from the foot massager, and headed up to Wisconsin. No, we had no direct plans or directions for the matter. Yes, we were lost and wandering in a farm town for a good two hours. But we had nowhere to be and we eventually made an adventure out of it. When we eventually found a lake and a city, we watched the waves as we ate lunch. By that time, my father’s lack of direction had far surpassed the acceptable brunch-eating time. Break up the Big Groupâ€"Coming from a big family, I know this may sound like a family suicide. But even when you spent time with your extended family in the morning and just with your immediate family at night, make sure your mother can have her diva moment, the moment where it’s truly all about her, not all your aunts, grandmothers, or cousins. Spending time with the entire family is always a treat. But your mother did not give a birth to your grandmother or your aunts. So make sure she is getting that one-on-one time that the diva may desire. Go in on a Big Giftâ€"No matter how many different last minute necklaces my brother buys Mom from Walgreens every year, she’s really never going to be able to pull off that butterfly in public. Instead of small presents that Mother may or may not get the use out ofâ€"although she will pretend to love itâ€"splurge on a big item with the rest of your family. This years was a foot massager from Brookstone. And I saw zero fake smiles.

4 Things Job Rejection Teaches You

4 Things Job Rejection Teaches You pexels.com The wonderful thing about rejection letters, as ironic as that sounds, is that they can teach you something maybe not a lesson you want to learn, but in the end, you can use that rejection as something to strengthen you for next time. Perhaps that job wasn’t meant for you or just maybe there is something you could have done better that would have made you a more sought after candidate. You thought your personal statement was great, but maybe it needed a second layer of proofreading. Even rejection can teach you something. 1. Don’t be a fake: Sometimes we go into job interviews pretending to be something that we aren’t. We pretend to be something that the employer would want. Believe me, dedication is a good thing, but lying isn’t. Ultimately, that’s what you are doing. You aren’t being yourself; you are being someone that you think they would like. That can only mean that if they hire you, they aren’t hiring you for you, but for the person that they think you are. Do you think you can pull off that façade for the duration you hold that job? I don’t think so. And honestly, why would you? Be you and if they don’t like you, then the job wasn’t meant for you. Period. 2. Confidence is key: Interviewing can be intimidating, to say the least. You can clam up, go blank when asked a question, stutter, start sweating (a lot), etc. When you are about to go into the interview, take deep breaths and tell yourself you can do this. Confidence is one thing that every employer likes in their employees. They want to know that you know what you are talking about and that you honestly believe in your abilities to do the work. I think they can live with some slight intimidation, but remember that they were in your shoes once and if they are a good employer, they want you to just feel good about yourself fully. 3. Improvement, improvement, improvement: As I said earlier, what you think is perfect may not be as perfect as you think. Maybe your resume needed a bit of a touch-up or maybe you should have elaborated more when they asked you about your past experience. Maybe you should have remembered to take that negative about yourself and turn it into strength somehow. Everything can do with some improvement, even when you think it’s perfect. If you get a rejection, sometimes employers are willing to let you know how you can improve for another interview you may have. You have already been rejected by the company, so what do you have to lose by asking them how you could improve? 4. Rejection: the silent blessing: Lastly, sometimes rejection could quite possibly be the best thing that ever happened to you. Did you ever think that maybe that company just wasn’t right for you? You could have been miserable there and wanted to quit immediately. Sometimes things happen to us and we realize that certain jobs would have gotten in the way of what’s happening at the moment. You never know, so try to move on and move forward with life, putting rejections behind you.

Assessing your international schools sense of community

Assessing your international school’s sense of community Building a strong school community for your students and teachers is so important. It helps create a place where your teachers want to come to work every day and your students feel that they can have a safe space that encourages their learning. Feeling safe is a basic human need - safe to learn, safe to connect, and safe to be ourselves. This means, when we find these spaces in our lives, we feel a stronger bond with them. As a school is a place where students spend 7+ hours a day there, and teachers as well, making these hours feel comfortable is vital. This doesn’t have to be a top-down process though. Everyone at a school should have a part in building a sense of community. The benefits are huge: recent studies have shown that students who feel that they are attending a school with a strong community are often more motivated academically, demonstrate more altruistic behavior, and develop a more acute emotional intelligence. How can you effectively assess how strong your school community is? A very simple place to start is by asking your teachers and students to consider the following statements and answer how truthful they think they are to their classrooms. In my classroom, we all feel safe. We all help one another learn and grow in my classroom. For students: If something is bothering me, I feel as though I can speak to my teacher about it. For teachers: My students come to me to discuss when things are troubling them. Taking some time to ask your teachers and students these questions each year can make a world of difference as you develop a strong sense of community at your school. One thing you should prepare for as you survey students, however, is some negative feedback. How can you take negative feedback and use it fruitfully? We’ll discuss this in our blog next week on building a stronger sense of community.