Most Common Challenges Facing Adults Going Back to School

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Choosing to return to school can be a life-changing decision, whether it’s been one year since you graduated or a decade since you sat in a classroom.

  • There are significant challenges posed to adults who decide to pursue education. The good news is these challenges are being recognized by many educational institutions, and non-traditional educational opportunities are becoming widely available. School and institutions are realizing the increasing importance of making learning accessible to everyone and are, consequently, offering more flexible options for students. Many institutions offer evening and weekend classes, as well as online or distance education options.
  • Grants, loans and Scholarships can assist with the costs of tuition and books. As more adults return to school, more services and resources become available to assist with this challenging but worthwhile endeavor.
  • Ultimately, adult learners face a very unique set of challenges when deciding to enter or re-enter the educational sphere. Three of the biggest challenges facing adult learners are balancing school and life, accessibility and costs:

School and Life Responsibilities – The Balancing Act
As any post-secondary student can attest, school is a huge time commitment. There is time spent in class, time spent preparing for class and then the time needed for assignments, labs and other homework. Above and beyond school commitments, adults who are returning to school face additional demands on their time. Many adult learners are pursuing their education while still working full time. Many also have families and family obligations. This means less time available for school-related activities. These additional responsibilities can lead to stress and frustration for adult learners.

Accessibility
A second challenge facing adult students is accessibility to classes. Sometimes getting to class is the biggest challenge! As previously mentioned, many adult learners have extensive time commitments. Whether it’s a full-time job or a growing family, other responsibilities make it difficult to attend classes during regular school hours. This can lead to difficulty succeeding at school, or even reluctance to return to school at all.

Cost
The cost of education can be challenging for anyone. Tuition costs, books, supplies — it all adds up. Throw daycare costs or rent, mortgage payments into the mix and the cost of pursuing an education as an adult learner can become prohibitive. Yet there are many resources available to assist in making their educational and career goals come true. Contact the Allen School today! We are enrolling now for our spring classes and cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.   -Allen School

Tips for Single Parents returning to School

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We’re really impressed when we hear about single parents returning to school on top of everything else, they’re doing! Getting an education isn’t just important for you, it’s crucial for your kids, too. It was not easy, but this is the goal of many single parents.  We often hear from single parents in school who are:

  • Working full-time and going to school during the day or at night
  • Completing intensive internships on top of their jobs
  • Returning to school as ‘older’ students to earn or finish their program.

Congratulations to all of you! We know how frantic everyday life can get: working and parenting can be overwhelming. We also know that returning to school is one of the best ways to gain new skills and move ahead. If you’re a single parent in school or consider returning to school, here are our tips for success:

Write Down Your Goals

Make your goals specific. For example, “I will have taken all my required courses by summer of 2019.” “I will do this by taking an accelerated program with internship before the end of the year.” “I will attend every optional study session offered, even if it is scheduled on Friday afternoon.” Make a contract with yourself, and sign your name. Promise yourself to move ahead with a well thought out plan.

Get Organized

Do not think you can plop your school stuff down on the kitchen table every night. Find a shelf, box, or file cabinet in which to keep your school materials. The kitchen table can certainly turn into your ‘school desk’ at night, but you need a defined, organized place to keep everything. Otherwise, valuable study time is wasted on looking for misplaced things, or items the children somehow managed to ‘borrow.’

Don’t Procrastinate

Single moms or dads in school do not have the option to procrastinate. Guaranteed, the first time you put off an important school paper, a child will get the flu, and the paper will not be done on time. The best way to manage the inevitable stresses of juggling multiple responsibilities as a single parent in school is to prioritize and NOT procrastinate. When your assignments are completed, you can enjoy guilt-free time away from the pressures of school.

Learn to Say ‘No’

When returning to school, you must learn to say no to demands that do not help you either 1) progress in your studies, or 2) personally benefit you and your children. Lots of us have trouble saying no. If this is difficult for you, keep a tangible reminder, like a picture of a vacation spot you’d like to visit.  To remind you that once you complete your program you can have the opportunity for a better life with increased income, and career advancement.

Now, we’d love to know:

Are you currently working toward finishing school? Are you thinking about a new career? If so, contact the Allen School today! We are enrolling now for classes and cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.

-ALLEN SCHOOL

The Best Places to Work as a Medical Assistant in 2022 (Part 3)

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If you’re considering a career as a medical assistant, your professional future involves fulfilling an essential role in healthcare. Medical assistants have a broad range of responsibilities, helping contribute to the successful operation of a healthcare facility – and ensuring that doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals are able to treat and care for patients effectively. You can work as a medical assistant in many different settings, ranging from private practices to large hospitals and other facilities. It’s a position that is in high demand and one that will always be relevant to today’s healthcare systems.  Anytime you decide to pursue a certain career path, you want to be confident that you’re making the right choice for your future – and medical assisting is no different. So, you may have a number of questions about medical assistants, such as:
  • What are the best places to work as a medical assistant?
Here is part 3 of our handy guide with the best cities to find a job as a medical assistant. Refer to part 1 for the top 5 best cities and part 2 for 10 more of the best cities to work as a medical assistant.

16. Seattle, Washington

  • 8,700 medical assisting jobs
  • Average annual salary: $50,820
  • Average hourly wage: $24.43
  • Average 90th percentile salary: $62,560
Seattle is well known as a hub for the high-tech and internet industries, boasting a rapidly growing economy bolstered by respected names like Microsoft and Amazon. However, this flourishing city is also an excellent place to pursue job opportunities in the healthcare field, including those searching for medical assisting jobs.  So, what makes Seattle one of the nation’s best places to work as a medical assistant? First and foremost, the area has several reputable medical centers, including the region’s only Level I trauma hospital, Harborview Medical Center. What’s more, the increasing population has driven an ongoing need for healthcare facilities and providers of all types. But beyond that, Seattle also offers its residents an excellent quality of life and easy access to entertainment, arts and culture, and more. Note: For the purpose of this guide, the Seattle metropolitan area includes Tacoma and Bellevue, WA.

17. San Diego, California

  • 7,950 medical assisting jobs
  • Average annual salary: $41,960
  • Average hourly wage: $20.17
  • Average 90th percentile salary: $57,860
If the Southern California lifestyle appeals to you, San Diego is an outstanding place for new and experienced medical assistants to find work. The area’s beachside location, mild climate, and many attractions have drawn a diverse population of residents and tourists alike, creating an ongoing need for skilled healthcare professionals.  For medical assistants in San Diego, salary ranges have excellent potential. As you gain experience, the earning potential only continues to increase, with the top MAs earning near the $60,000 mark. And of course, on your days off, you can look forward to soaking up the sun and everything else this popular city offers. Note: For the purpose of this guide, the San Diego metropolitan area includes Long Beach and Anaheim, CA.

18. San Antonio, Texas

  • 7,710 medical assisting jobs
  • Average annual salary: $33,870
  • Average hourly wage: $16.29
  • Average 90th percentile salary: $39,970
Texas has long been touted as one of the U.S. states with an extremely low cost of living, offering highly affordable housing, utilities, healthcare, and the like. As a medical assistant, your salary can go significantly farther in San Antonio than in many other large U.S. cities, but you can still enjoy the big-city lifestyle. In San Antonio, medical assistant jobs can be found at a wide range of facilities, from the expansive South Texas Medical Center to small, privately-owned clinics and providers. The city has several neighborhoods, each with a distinct personality and many amenities.  Note: For the purpose of this guide, the San Antonio metropolitan area includes New Braunfels, TX.

19. Sacramento, California

  • 7,270 medical assisting jobs
  • Average annual salary: $51,530
  • Average hourly wage: $24.78
  • Average 90th percentile salary: $66,960
Sacramento plays an important role in the California healthcare industry, serving as the site of the world-famous UC Davis Medical Center. It is also home to several prestigious US universities and is often described as one of the country’s most diverse cities.  Compared to many other cities, the average salary for medical assistants in Sacramento is relatively high. So, even though the cost of living is somewhat higher in this area, MAs have the earning potential to match. Here, you can explore an array of parks, museums, entertainment venues, restaurants, and unique local businesses of all types. Note: For the purpose of this guide, the Sacramento metropolitan area includes Roseville and Arden-Arcade, CA.

20. Portland, Oregon

  • 7,200 medical assisting jobs
  • Average annual salary: $46,620
  • Average hourly wage: $22.41
  • Average 90th percentile salary: $53,450
Portland is often recognized for its eclectic vibe, fantastic food scene, and thriving arts community, making it a one-of-a-kind place to live and work. Often known by its nickname, the “Silicon Forest,” due to the high prevalence of technology companies that operate from within the area (more than 1,200 and counting).  The scenic surroundings put you just a short drive away from lush forests and towering waterfalls, and there’s always a great new restaurant to try near you. The comparatively high salary provides an excellent opportunity for medical assistants of all experience levels.  Note: For the purpose of this guide, the Portland metropolitan area includes Vancouver, WA, and Hillsboro, OR.

21. Orlando, Florida

  • 7,140 medical assisting jobs
  • Average annual salary: $33,370
  • Average hourly wage: $16.04
  • Average 90th percentile salary: $40,750
Many people think of Orlando as a dream vacation destination, but it’s also a wonderful place to live. Aside from its more famous (and extra-magical) employers such as Walt Disney World, Orlando also has a health healthcare industry with a steady demand for medical assistants and other healthcare professionals. The cost of living in Orlando is relatively on par with the national average, and MAs have good earning potential. Despite its large size, the city has maintained a friendly and welcoming atmosphere that is highly tolerant and accepting.  Note: For the purpose of this guide, the Orlando metropolitan area includes Kissimmee and Sanford, FL.

22. Baltimore, Maryland

  • 6,500 medical assisting jobs
  • Average annual salary: $39,340
  • Average hourly wage: $18.91
  • Average 90th percentile salary: $49,950
Baltimore is typically ranked as one of the most inexpensive options for anyone interested in living in a large, coastal metropolitan area, coming in well below the national average. Rich with history and tens of thousands of historic buildings throughout the city, it is easy to see why Baltimore is a great place to begin your medical assistant career. MA jobs in Baltimore are plentiful, which is just one of the many reasons we’ve included it on our list of the best places to work as a medical assistant. The earning potential for medical assistants, combined with a low cost of living, offers healthcare professionals a great quality of life.  Note: For the purpose of this guide, the Baltimore metropolitan area includes Columbia and Towson, MD.

23. Minneapolis, Minnesota

  • 6,370 medical assisting jobs
  • Average annual salary: $45,440
  • Average hourly wage: $21.85
  • Average 90th percentile salary: $52,980
Four of the eight hospitals in Minneapolis are ranked among the best in the US, earning accolades from industry publications and news sources. Healthcare is an important component of the area’s economy, providing excellent opportunities for recently graduated MAs and those with established work experience. Living in Minneapolis means reaping the benefits of a well-maintained metropolitan area, including its award-winning parks, arts and culture community, professional sports teams, and more. Despite its bustling city streets, Minneapolis is also a surprisingly scenic place to call home. Note: For the purpose of this guide, the Minneapolis metropolitan area includes Bloomington and St. Paul, MN.

24. Denver, Colorado

  • 6,350 medical assisting jobs
  • Average annual salary: $41,870
  • Average hourly wage: $20.13
  • Average 90th percentile salary: $51,070
The “Mile High City” proves that the sky’s the limit for medical assistants, providing numerous job opportunities and solid job security across the healthcare industry. The metropolitan area has a multifaceted economy fueled by healthcare and wellness, aerospace, finance, energy, and other sectors, and it’s only continuing to grow stronger. As a Denver local, you’ll be surrounded by stunning scenery and snow-capped mountains, putting outdoor adventure within easy reach. If you prefer to stay in the city, you can choose from many museums, restaurants, shops, and other attractions, all accessible via public transit. Depending on your preferred lifestyle and budget, you can reside in just about any type of home, from a modern apartment in a towering skyscraper to a quiet bungalow in the suburbs.  Note: For the purpose of this guide, the Denver metropolitan area includes Lakewood and Aurora, CO.

25. Indianapolis, Indiana

  • 5,880 medical assisting jobs
  • Average annual salary: $38,720
  • Average hourly wage: $18.61
  • Average 90th percentile salary: $45,950
Indianapolis has all the charm of a small town and all the amenities and opportunities of a big city, combined with an extremely affordable cost of living and a thriving job market. Medical assistants can find jobs in the heart of the city or in the suburbs, including at hospitals, clinics, residential care facilities, and physicians’ offices.  The city has been counted among the favorite – and most fun – cities in the US, which is no surprise to longtime locals. Finding things to do in Indianapolis is easy, whether you tend to enjoy fine dining, outdoor activities, arts, and culture, or sports.  Note: For the purpose of this guide, the Indianapolis metropolitan area includes Carmel and Anderson, IN.  

The Allen School of Health Sciences is offering virtual campus tours for enrollment for our classes starting soon. Contact the Allen School today! We cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.

Medical Assisting Is More Than Just A Job. It’s an Important Healthcare Career.

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If you’re considering pursuing a career in healthcare, medical assisting can allow you to do meaningful work that matters in your community. Medical assistants play an essential role in the day-to-day operations of healthcare facilities and are often among the first and last people a patient sees at their check-ups or doctor’s appointments. If you think the healthcare field could be right for you, here are three reasons why medical assisting is a great place to start.
  1. Medical assisting is more than just a job. It’s an important healthcare career.
Medical assisting is a rewarding healthcare career that can give you the chance to contribute to patient health and care as you support physicians, nurses, and other medical professionals. Medical assistants often interact with patients and, with an upbeat attitude and positive demeanor, can help to keep patients feeling at ease and smiling during a physician’s visit that might otherwise be stressful. In fact, the Allen School of Health Sciences has been graduating healthcare professions for nearly 60 years. As a medical assistant, you’ll also be learning a lot about the healthcare field, and, in time, may find opportunities for advancement into roles like medical office or records manager, healthcare administrator, nursing or other related jobs.
  1. Medical assisting encompasses many duties, keeping you engaged and on your toes.
As a medical assistant, you may perform a diverse mix of administrative and clinical responsibilities. On the administrative side, you might schedule appointments, greet patients, update electronic health records, and handle billing and insurance. Clinical duties can include recording patient information and history, instructing patients on medications, checking vital signs, preparing blood samples, conducting basic lab tests, and assisting the doctor before and during a patient exam. In some states, medical assistants may also give patients injections or medications as instructed by the physician.   Medical assistants can work in a variety of care facilities, with most having time schedules while others have the option to work part-time instead. If you work in a physician’s or practitioner’s office, you’re likely to work a predictable schedule as most clinics and offices open during standard business hours, allowing you to more easily plan and schedule time with family and friends. Other large employers of medical assistants include hospitals and outpatient care centers.
  1. Employment of medical assistants is growing faster than average.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical assistant employment is expected to increase 23% by 2024, much faster than the 7% average across all occupations. Medical assistant employment growth follows the general growth of the healthcare industry and the increasing need for support workers at healthcare facilities. By 2024, the BLS projects that 730,200 medical assistants will be employed in the US, compared to the 591,300 medical assistants counted in 2014. Such an increase in demand can provide workers with increased career stability and the knowledge that, no matter where they are in the country, medical assistants will be needed. How to Prepare for Your Medical Assisting Career At the Allen School of Health Sciences, our accelerated medical assisting program can prepare you to begin working as a medical assistant in as little as 9 months. Learn more about the Allen School of Health Sciences medical assisting program available at our 3 locations, Brooklyn, Jamaica Queens N.Y.  and our campus in Phoenix Arizona. Contact the Allen School today! We are enrolling now for our spring classes and cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.  

Graduate Spotlight Blog: Jasmine Perez

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What brought me to The Allen School?

The fact that I wanted more for myself, my daughter and the fact that The Allen School lets you kick start your career in 9 short months was perfect when I thought impossible.

 

How did my experience at Allen school prepare me for what I am doing today?

It gave me the fundamentals I needed to grow and harness my medical knowledge which is needed for my career to take off.

 

What made you go into this field?

My mom is an Allen School Graduate and if she can do it as a single mother so could I. She really supported my dreams along with Gabby, the teachers, and staff.

 

My advice for Allen School students and alumni is:

Never give up and remember your dreams and goals are bigger than your struggles and hardships.

 

My ultimate career goal is:

To become a physician’s assistant or an RN.

 

What’re the most important things you have learned?

Never give up and it is okay to be open about what you’re going through cause you never know who is going through it as well. Be supportive to everyone cause sometimes a smile means the world to someone.

 

Tips for a Successful Healthcare Interview

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Congratulations! You got the interview. This accomplishment means you’re a viable candidate for the position you are seeking. However, you’re still far from getting an offer. It’s time to hone your skills and you prepare to sell an invaluable product…yourself! Here are five areas to focus on before your interview. RESEARCH THE HIRING COMPANY You will see that each of these tips focuses on preparation. One of the most important is to learn about the company you’re about to speak to. One way is to show the hiring manager that you are detail oriented and diligent. This can be accomplished by researching the hiring company.  If you research the Allen School of Health Sciences, you will find that we have been around for nearly 60 years. Research the company’s website, and while you’re doing so make notes of areas, you’d like to bring up during your interview conversation. This exercise also gives you an opportunity to learn about the company’s culture. It’s important to look at the news and blog sections, as this is where you’ll find the most recent updated material. Google the company to get more objective information. You can impress your interviewer with a congratulations on a recent award or a question about the success of a new initiative. HAVE A QUESTION READY At the end of your interview, it’s almost certain that you will be asked, “do you have any questions for me?” The worst response you can give to this question is NO, even when is followed by an explanation, such as “No, I think I have all the information I need,” or “No, you covered everything.” Have two or three questions prepared that relate to the position, the company, or even the hiring manager and his or her responsibilities. Avoid questions about salary and benefits; especially on the first interview and never with anyone except for the human resources manager. Contact the Allen School of Health Sciences to learn more. www.allenschool.edu PREPARE FOR COMMON QUESTIONS ASKED IN THE INTERVIEW. You have some great questions ready, now it’s time for the even tougher part. You will inevitably be asked some, if not all, of these questions. Have your responses ready. What made you choose a career in healthcare? Or more specifically, why did you choose (your specific healthcare profession)? Why did you leave your last position? Why do you feel you’re a good fit for this job? Or, why should we select you over the other candidates? Be prepared!! ARTICULATE YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS AND EXPERIENCE. When you are asked about your achievements, put them in terms that will show direct benefits “The new patient intake form I set up was easier for our patients to understand and had them completing the forms more quickly. This led to higher patient satisfaction scores. “I passed my clinicals at school to qualify for this position. “I excelled at patient assessment skills that have prepared me to work well in a medical office”. Always feature your skills with the benefits they will bring to your position. FOLLOWUP WITH ALL INTERVIEWS. It’s surprising how many applicants don’t follow-up. It’s a great way to set yourself apart. Send a separate message (email or mail) to each person you spoke with. You should send it within 24 hours of your interview. Reiterate important aspects of the job and how you can directly meet their needs. You can also use this opportunity to add in anything important that you feel wasn’t covered during your interview(s). If you discussed any materials you created, you can attach them or mail them with your message. The effort you put in before going on an interview will increase your chances of landing your dream job. Contact the Allen School today! We are enrolling now for our spring classes and cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.   -Allen School  

Study Habit Tips for Students

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It can be difficult to settle into the routine of higher education for the first time or even if you are returning to school, especially when you choose an accelerated curriculum or balance classes with a full-time job. Luckily, old habits and new distractions don’t have to stand in the way of your performance in school. By incorporating effective study habits into your daily routine, you will see yourself blossom into a capable, disciplined student. They are easy to follow and implement and require only a commitment on your part to follow through. Take & review thorough notes while in class Whether you’re sitting through a lecture or doing an assigned reading, always take notes. You’ll absorb key terms and ideas more quickly by writing them down immediately. Don’t be afraid to ask classmates for a refresher if you miss a class. Eliminate lifestyle distractions Technology offers unprecedented ways to access new information. However, it also creates distractions that prevent you from concentrating on your classroom and study habits. Stick to academic websites, silence your phone, and turn off your wireless connection as soon as you have enough information to write. Schedule your study time Instead of squeezing study sessions in between classes, naps, and other responsibilities, treat studying like any other class or commitment. Pick a specific location that’s quiet, peaceful, and will give you plenty of room to work. Then set a specific appointment with yourself each week, and stick to it. Organize your class materials Instead of keeping one bulky binder or a backpack of loose paper, organize your notes and handouts into separate folders. This makes it easier to find what you need for each exam, keep your homework together, and prevent overwhelming clutter. Color-coding can also help you keep different topics separate. Take every extra opportunity to study If an instructor offers an after-class study session or extra credit opportunity, try to fit it into your schedule. This doesn’t just give you a stronger safety net in case you make a mistake in the future; it also shows your initiative as a student. Take care of yourself first – Get plenty of rest! Your brain needs to recharge regularly in order to process and absorb new information. Sometimes all-nighters are inevitable, but don’t let it become a habit, because sleep-deprivation can prevent you from learning or thinking critically. Give yourself permission to make up for lost sleep, too. Study with a group or partner Study groups usually meet before big tests, but many students have realized how helpful it is to help one another throughout the school year. You can exchange notes, quiz each other, and most importantly, hold each other responsible for showing up to each session. Exercise to release stress Instead of succumbing to anxiety or pressure until studying seems impossible, find a productive outlet to express your frustration. Physical activity releases endorphins that reduce stress and depression, and it’s completely free. Take care of yourself first – Eat well Nutrition plays a huge role in your ability to learn. Instead of depending on sugar and caffeine — and weathering the crashes that follow — drink plenty of water and make sure you get enough fruits and vegetables. A well-rested, well-nourished, hydrated body is capable of staying awake and alert without help from chemicals. Don’t be afraid to ask for help Don’t be afraid to reach out to tutors, instructors, and classmates if you think you’re falling behind. Whether you have trouble understanding a new concept or just need help managing your time, your school is full of people who know exactly what you’re going through. Contact the Allen School today! We are enrolling now for our spring classes and cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more. – Allen School  

Tips for Job Interviews in the field of Health Care

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As a professional entering the field of health care, there is a lot to consider when searching for a new position. Graduating from the Allen School of Health Sciences, you can feel confident knowing you are equipped for employment across the health care industry. The proper credentials and experience gained with graduating from the Allen School make the job search and application process that much easier. The next step is tackling the interviews, which can be daunting for even the best-prepared candidate. Prior to sitting down for your interview for a position in the field of health care, consider these tips for securing the position. Showcase your education and training When you walk into an interview, the ball is in your court. You have the ability to paint a vivid picture of who you are as a person, what professional skills you possess, why you have ambitions in the field and how you would face pressing health care issues. Your grades and certifications are already in writing. Go beyond that to show the employer the kind of role you would play in their organization or agency. Don’t be afraid to propose new ideas and solutions for current health care challenges.  This can lead to discussions that your interviewer will be thinking of long after you’ve walked out the door. Incorporate your professional experience Even if you have all of the highest test scores and certifications, an employer will still want to know about your hands-on training and experience in the field. The Allen School of Health Sciences is a prime example of this.  Through hands on learning and internships at our clinical sites, you will gain the necessary attributes to work in health care. Using anecdotes to highlight your experience as an intern or volunteer can help showcase the wealth of knowledge and critical thinking skills you have gained thus far. These stories can demonstrate how you think and respond to problems or conflict. Be prepared with questions for the interviewer One of the most basic rules of any interview, no matter the field, is always to be prepared with a list of questions for your interviewer. Asking career-oriented questions, both personal and organization-based, demonstrates not only your interest in the company, but conveys your ambitious and forward-thinking attitude in the field as well. Take this opportunity to express your excitement about the position and the possibilities for the future. The hiring managers will want to know that their investment in you as an employee is worthwhile and by demonstrating your enthusiasm to take on your new role, they will see that their time and money invested will in fact pay off. Contact the Allen School today! We are enrolling now for our spring classes and cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.   -Allen School

Success in School & Positive Thinking

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Can you really change your life just by thinking positive thoughts? Is this some sort of hipster feel-good stuff that has no concept of reality? Unfortunately, that seems to be the attitude of a lot of people. The truth, though, is this: “The mind is everything. What you think, you become.”– The Buddha And it’s not just “what” you think but “how” you think! But since the human condition seems to be one of “seeing is believing,” we allow the “obvious” (the negativity) to dominate our thoughts… and attract more of the same. What we don’t do, for the most part, is increase our positive thinking to the point where “believing is seeing”. Look at the people in your life, and then look at yourself as objectively as you can. Do you (all or most people you know, including yourself) believe your lives are at the mercy of external influences like bosses, the economy, family obligations, educational opportunities, financial status, etc.? Do you believe, “what’s the use, no matter how hard I try, nothing ever changes”? Do you see life as a struggle? Do you find yourself blaming, complaining or condemning? If you said “yes” to any of these – even on some level – you’re not alone. Now look at some people you admire, the ones who seem to have it all. Not necessarily the ones with the most status because of money and power. There are plenty who fall in that category who are miserable. I’m talking about the people who live their lives like you wish you could live yours. That’s why you’re noticing them. They’re on your radar to show you that you can live that life too! So, what’s the difference between them and everybody else? It’s NOT family fortunes, great education or luck. Some of the world’s most influential people were born into the most unfortunate poverty and had all sorts of obstacles to overcome! So there has to be an internal factor at play here. The difference is the quality of their thoughts. They choose to think positively. They choose to think in terms of what can be accomplished, not what can’t be done. In terms of possibility, not limits. What they think about comes about… same as you. Same as everyone else. It’s all a matter of your thoughts. The happy, positive, successful people choose to see beauty and thankfulness in everything. They see the silver lining and the opportunities. They don’t allow external influences to disrupt their sense of well-being. And you know what? The more positively they think, the more they attract the good things they want in life. What if you were to start seeing the positive lessons in everything, and the best in all people? What if you were to realize that your happiness does not depend on anything but your decision to be happy? What if you said to yourself, “I don’t have to allow this to bring me down? I can deal with this situation in a spirit of optimism and joy of living?” You do – if you choose to! The successful people in life have the responsibilities and obligations, but somehow, things all fall into place for them, because positive thinking determines the direction of their lives. Would you rather be around people who are happy and inspiring, or people who talk doom and gloom? Remember, like attracts like…And the people whose negativity surrounds them, aren’t getting the most out of life. Life truly is what you make it. Make it positive!  Contact the Allen School today! We are enrolling now for our spring classes and cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.   -Allen School