Boyi Bokar Sr., of Durham, North Carolina, earned an Associate of Science in Nursing in 2010. He shares, “I earned my associate degree in Nursing in 2010, passed the NCLEX Exam and acquired my first nursing job with a teaching hospital, the University Of North Carolina Hospitals at Chapel Hill. In 2013, I enrolled in Winston-Salem State University as an undergraduate and graduated in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In 2016, I joined the VA Health System as a staff nurse in an inpatient acute psychiatric unit. Years later, I enrolled in the online Psychiatric Mental Health master’s program at Maryville University as a part-time student. At the same time, I maintained my full-time employment, and in 2022, I graduated with a master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. Now, I am a board-certified Nurse practitioner working with the Marion, Illinois, VA Medical Center.”
Margaret Hartmann, Bachelor of Science in Sociology, 2013
Margaret Hartmann of Cresco, Pennsylvania, earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology in 2013. She shares, “I was just recently elected to the board of directors for the Monroe County Habitat for Humanity. I am also active in the PA League of Women Voters as well as the Monroe County League of Women Voters.”
Jimmy Briggs, Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts, 1999
Jimmy Briggs of Spanish Fork, Utah, earned a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts in 1999. He shares, “Since my degree was very general (Liberal Arts), the greatest benefit from completing it was using it as a launch pad to a master’s program, which I completed in 2004. After I retired from the U.S. Army in 2009, both degrees helped me to get a job in the corporate world as a technical writer, which I am still doing today and has been a very successful second career.”
Technology Trends in Electrical Engineering
From the first telephone wires to cell phones, innovations in electrical engineering have revolutionized how we connect and live. As the demands of modern society grow and change, electrical engineering continues to evolve, too, improving our efficiency, safety, energy management, automation, and connectivity. New technologies are always being introduced, but let’s check out some of the most recent developments that have helped advance society.
What Are Some Recent Innovations in Electrical Engineering?
Advances in electrical engineering help increase the economy, improve safety and health care, solve global challenges, and make for a more connected future. Here are a few of the new technologies in the field.
Smart Grids
Smart grids use digital communication and automation to manage electricity generation, distribution, management, and consumption. Traditional power grids are limited in their ability to adapt to real-time changes. Instead, smart grids use sensors, smart meters, and advanced communication systems to adjust to fluctuating energy needs. These grids incorporate renewable energy sources more effectively, as well, promoting a sustainable future. Smart grids also allow households and corporations to generate their electricity, meaning consumers don’t have to rely on traditional power companies—and may even be able to sell surplus electricity back to the grid.
Energy Storage Systems
Energy storage systems (ESS) hold on to and later provide energy when renewable sources like solar and wind aren’t producing power. They promise a source of continued supply and a longer lifespan. ESS can come in a variety of forms: chemical (batteries), mechanical (pumped hydropower, flywheels), thermal (molten salt), and electromagnetic (superconducting systems). Advanced batteries enhance capacity, safety, and cost-effectiveness, making energy storage more efficient. ESS is helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, supporting clean energy, and helping nations achieve net-zero goals.
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) enhances efficiency, reliability, and innovation in electrical engineering technologies. AI uses machine learning to analyze data to proactively schedule maintenance on lots of equipment and machinery, minimizing downtime for many businesses. Fault detection systems use AI to diagnose issues in power grids; AI optimizes the energy flow to support eco-friendly solutions to supply and demand patterns. Beyond energy, AI-driven automation is helping food manufacturing industries maintain optimal food environmental conditions and is being utilized in areas like circuit design, energy forecasting, and more.
The Internet of Things
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the totality of devices that collect, analyze, and share data. These “smart” devices can range from thermostats and smartwatches to entire smart cities. IoT is essential in building smart grids, smart lighting, and other electrical engineering projects. For example, 5G technology has increased the adoption of IoT products, boosting innovations like smart homes, temperature monitoring, machine performance, and good lighting.
Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles (EVs) play an increasingly significant role in the modern world, with innovations in battery technology, charging infrastructure, and power electronics. EVs have shorter charging times, improved battery lives, and efficient power usage, which, along with reduced emissions, makes them appealing to consumers. They contribute to a decreased dependency on fossil fuels, supporting efforts to fight climate change. Improvements in battery development, charging technologies, and AI and IoT integration are primed to push the EV industry further.
What’s Next for Electrical Engineering Technology?
Significant advancements are set to continue, driven by new technologies like AI and the IoT. Energy storage solutions, EVs, battery technologies, and grid stability will continue to improve, and we can expect breakthroughs in cryptography and other computer fields. As new technologies emerge, electrical engineers and electrical engineering technologists and technicians will play a critical role in shaping the future; the demand for these professionals will rise as nearly every industry adopts rapidly advancing technologies.
To take advantage of this growing and lucrative field, consider pursuing your degree in electrical engineering technology and get started on a beneficial and rewarding career in shaping the future of technology.
Spotlight on Leadership: What the ASL Chapter Councilor Means to Me
Mary Berkery, department chair, Degree Completion and Liberal Arts for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Excelsior University, was featured in the Alpha Sigma Lambda honor society’s Spotlight on Leadership blog. Mary serves as the chapter councilor for the honor society’s Sigma Zeta chapter at Excelsior University, and wrote a reflection on the importance of this community to learners.
Is It the Right Time to Get a Degree?
Determining whether it’s the right time to pursue a college degree depends on a range of factors. You should evaluate your goals, timing, financial readiness, market trends, and whether you’re even ready for school. Weighing the benefits, exploring popular college majors and programs, and fleshing out your priorities can help you make a thoughtful decision about whether now is the time to get your degree.
What Are the Benefits of Getting a College Degree?
Earning a college degree can open many doorways to personal and professional success. It can help you expand your career opportunities, increase your earning potential, and enhance your job security. Let’s explore some of the benefits of pursuing higher education.
More Job Opportunities
A college degree provides access to a broad range of career opportunities requiring advanced education, like health care, engineering, education, and more. Many employers view candidates with college degrees as more skilled and better prepared, and industries that require them continue to see significant growth.
Higher Earning Potential
Individuals with a college degree earn more over their lifetimes than those without one. Higher education often leads to higher-paying roles, with many industries offering substantial salary increases for employees with advanced qualifications, making college a prudent financial investment.
Lower Unemployment Rate
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), unemployment rates decrease as degree levels increase. Those with advanced degrees, such as master’s or doctoral degrees, experience the lowest unemployment rates. Graduates are more likely to find and retain jobs, so earning a college degree enhances job opportunities and increases job security.
What’s the Best Degree to Pursue?
Persuaded by the upside of a college degree but unsure of which direction to take your higher education? The best degree for you depends on your interests, strengths, and career plans, and it’s essential for you to research to find the program that matches your goals. However, the following are some degrees that might interest you based on current market trends and popular demand.
Computer Science
In a computer science degree program, you would study computational systems and their operation and pick up analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills. The typical curriculum covers programming, algorithms, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, computer architecture, robotics, gaming technology, and more, gaining you entry to the technology, finance, and health care industries. Computer science degree holders are in good shape financially; employment in the computer and information technology field is projected to grow from 2023 to 2033, with about 356,700 openings annually, and the median annual wage of these jobs is about $104,420, as of May 2023.
Business
In bachelor’s programs in business and/or management, students study subjects like accounting, finance, marketing, economics, statistics, and human resources. These college degree programs teach students budgeting, planning, hiring, how to manage organizations, and concepts like diversity, ethics, and politics. Students can also specialize in many different areas, like entrepreneurship, international business, and supply chain management. With a business degree, students can start careers in finance, marketing, consulting, and management, or launch their own businesses.
Health Care Administration
Emerging health care technologies like remote patient monitoring, electronic health records, and telehealth are transforming patient care, operational efficiency, and security. Students can enter this technologically advanced health care industry by pursuing a degree in health care management. In such a program, students study key areas like health care law, finance, human resources, ethics, quality improvement, and strategic planning so they’re prepared to effectively manage health care teams, ensure patient satisfaction, and navigate complex regulations. With this knowledge, they can be prepared to pursue roles like hospital administrator or health care manager.
Nursing
The BLS reported the median annual wage for registered nurses to be $86,070 as of 2023, with a robust 6% employment growth of RNs projected through 2033. Nursing students study anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, patient care, ethics, and health care policy. They learn to assess, diagnose, and treat patients, manage health care plans, and work with other professionals. A nursing degree can prepare students to work in various health care settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and schools, or in nursing leadership, education, and research.
Liberal Arts
It’s true that liberal arts graduates don’t command the same salaries as those in STEM or health care fields, but on average, they take in $20,000 more than workers whose highest level of education is high school. And liberal arts grads frequently advance into more specialized, sought-after roles, from human resources and management to public relations, advertising, and marketing.
A liberal arts degree offers a broad education across humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics, cultivating broad cognitive skills like solving problems, thinking critically, and being creative. It prepares students for diverse careers in industries like education, business, government, and the arts. For example, jobs in psychology are in high demand, so those pursuing a psychology degree are well positioned to enter the job market. Indeed, the BLS projects a 7% growth in employment of psychologists in the decade leading up to 2033, nearly double the average rate for all occupations.
Matching a Degree with Your Career Goals
When choosing a college major/degree program, you must think about your talents, skills, education, career goals, and life experiences. You should think about how these factors line up with different career paths. Don’t forget to research the job availability, salaries, and growth in employment for fields of interest. Work-life balance and job satisfaction are also important to consider. By weighing these factors, you can better decide which degree matches your long-term goals, values, and financial needs.
If you’re ready to explore college degree programs, check out Excelsior University’s many areas of study.
Leadership Followership Dynamics in Startup Evolution: A Multifaceted Study
Leah Sciabarrasi presented findings from her study on leadership and followership practices in startup evolution, examining how these dynamics evolve as companies grow; and co-led a World Cafe workshop exploring trust-building and followership during organizational change at the International Leadership Association (ILA) Conference in Chicago in November 2024. She will be chairing the ILA Followership Community in 2025, now one of the largest communities in the ILA.
- ILA Conference Presentation Oct 2024 wrap up: https://www.leahsciabarrasi.com/2024/12/20/presentation-leadership-followership-dynamics-in-startup-evolution-a-multifaceted-study/
- Global Followership Conference Presentation April 2024 wrap-up: https://www.leahsciabarrasi.com/2024/06/11/leadership-and-followership-in-startups/
- Followership Community: https://ilaglobalnetwork.org/member-communities/followership/
Top 5 Computer Programming Languages of 2025
Behind all language is the concept that systems of patterns can create meaning greater than the sum of their parts. But how do you create meaning for a machine? Programming languages were developed to answer this very question. Bridging the gap between human language and mechanical function, these technical lexicons build, change, and control the ways in which computers work. And just like you would switch the language you speak depending on what country you visit, developers use different coding languages depending on what systems they need to program.
What Is a Programming Language?
In the late 1700s, humans began to mechanize our work. Early manufacturing systems were revelatory, but the machines were cumbersome, complicated, and still required heavy physical labor to operate. As the Industrial Revolution progressed, people began to look for ways to “tell” mechanical systems what to do so they could be operated with less effort.
The earliest example of what of we would call a programming language was patented by Joseph-Marie Jacquard in 1804. The Jacquard loom was able to weave complicated designs into fabric with a series of punched paper cards featuring patterns that could be “read” by a system of pegs, springs, and weights that lowered and raised parts of the loom, controlling the threads as they moved through the machine, just as an operator might do manually. Each linked chain of cards could create a different pattern.
Jacquard’s loom changed manufacturing forever. And what’s more, its hole punch on-off system would essentially evolve into the binary code of ones and zeroes that fundamentally operates all modern computers we know today.
What Are the Most Popular Programming Languages?
Although the humble paper card continued to be used in computing up until the late 1970s, today, hundreds of different languages exist, designed to program everything from algorithms and artificial intelligence to web development. Each language has its own set of rules and structure for writing code, similar to how grammar governs spoken language. Here are five of the most popular in use today.
Python
Python is considered one of the most beginner-friendly programming languages thanks to a syntax and structure that’s similar to English. This versatile language is used for a wide range of applications, including web development, data analytics, automation, and machine learning. Free to use and modify, Python has a large community of users contributing to its development.
JavaScript
JavaScript is a core coding language of the web as we know it. This language is a structured and efficient way to write code and allows developers to create dynamically updating content like autocompleting forms, moving graphics, pop-up menus, clickable buttons, and multimedia controls.
A 2024 technology use survey from Stack Overflow, an online knowledge-sharing platform for technologists, found that JavaScript was the most frequently used programming language by tens of thousands of developers worldwide.
C++
C++ is primarily used for building high-performance, complex software applications that require fast execution and efficient memory management. This code is ideal for areas such as system software, game development, operating systems, web browsers, databases, and algorithms that need to run quickly on a variety of devices while maximizing resources.
C#
C# (pronounced “C sharp”) is a flexible general-purpose programming language used to build a wide variety of applications across different platforms, including desktop, web, mobile apps, software, and particularly video games. Introduced by Microsoft in 2000, C# is considered the primary language for building applications on the Windows operating system.
Java
Java is a programming language that can be executed within a simulated virtual environment called the Java Virtual Machine. This platform independence makes it a popular choice for mobile applications, cloud-based systems, chatbots, and other marketing tools, as well as powering enterprise-level web applications like customer management systems.
How Do You Get Started?
Having at least a familiarity with coding languages is usually a basic requirement for anyone looking to enter a computing field, and it’s common for experienced programmers to have fluency in several languages. If you are brand new to programming, there are many free online resources available for beginner coders to start learning. With any new language, it’s important to practice using it. Sites like Codecademy, freeCodeCamp, Khan Academy, and W3Schools offer interactive courses and tutorials with opportunities for you to experiment with code and test your work.
To advance in tech industries, you’ll need more than just programming language skills, and most computer and information technology occupations require well-rounded candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree. Excelsior offers a bachelor’s degree in computer science, cybersecurity, and information technology to help you crack the code to building your dream tech career!
Scoping Review: A Hybrid Delivery Model of Pain Management
Brian Pervis, department chair, School of Nursing, published the clinical article “Scoping Review: A Hybrid Delivery Model of Pain Management” in Pain Management Nursing. This research explores hybrid approaches to pain management, contributing to evidence-based practice in the field.
Excelsior University Enabling Paths To Accessing Impactful Higher Education
Excelsior University president David Schejbal was recently interviewed by host Eric Dye for an Enterprise Radio podcast. President Schejbal discusses Excelsior’s history, mission, and future, new programs and innovations, online learning, and military education.
Mastering the Employee Life Cycle
What is an employee life cycle? During their employment with your organization, a worker goes through various stages, starting with their first contact and continuing through their departure and moving forward. These stages together form the employee life cycle. As an HR professional, you can add significant value to an organization by managing how employees move through these stages.
Tips to Improve Each Stage of the Employee Life Cycle
If you’re a human resources professional, leaving the employee life cycle to chance is a missed opportunity. When you understand the stages and how you can positively influence them, it will benefit employees, your organization, and your career in HR. Here are the key stages and what you can do to optimize each one for highest employee satisfaction and a solid reputation as an employer.
Attraction
In the beginning of the employee life cycle, potential workers are just becoming aware of your organization. You can elevate the experience with effective employee branding, thoughtful marketing, and doing all you can to establish a sterling reputation with customers and employees. Be sure to listen to what people are saying on social media, including Reddit and Quora, as well as rating sites like Glassdoor, Indeed, CareerBliss, and Niche Pursuits. The human resources department should ensure that information about your company is complete and up to date.
Recruitment
The next stage is largely in the hands of your hiring managers. You’re looking to find and attract good candidates and put them through the hiring process. Tools that make applying easy, streamline the screening process, and automate keeping candidates informed at every step can make a substantial difference. Make sure you never ghost a candidate, even the most unqualified. Treating every applicant with respect goes a long way.
Onboarding
Once hired, bringing employees into an organization and integrating them into systems, processes, equipment, culture, and roles is the next stage of the employee life cycle. First impressions count, so you don’t want an employee’s first day to be chaotic. You might create an image of incompetence or lack of caring that could cloud the future of the relationship and destroy employee satisfaction from Day 1. A strong start creates valuable goodwill.
Engagement
Build enthusiasm and dedication among your staff with programs that involve employees in substantive decisions, work environment issues, and even fun activities and culture-building traditions. Programs that engage employees need to be authentically grassroots, not dictated from the top. Good programs ensure that employees know what their role is, are empowered and motivated to achieve in the role, are connected to co-workers and leaders, and feel like they are making a difference. The ideal is to make coming to work rewarding and enjoyable.
Development
When you invest in employees, they are more likely to invest in your organization. Employee satisfaction is higher when employees can take advantage of opportunities to add to their skills and knowledge with training and mentorship that supports their career growth. Keep your best employees loyal and motivated with programs that support their development.
Retention
The retention stage really starts from the day of hiring. When you onboard effectively, engage employees, and invest in their advancement, you have the best chance of holding on to your top performers. Human resources can regularly survey employees to find out what they like, don’t like, and wish they had. Employee reviews are not just to evaluate employee performance; rather, they’re an ideal time to learn what might interest and motivate them. Salary and benefits also play an important role. In this stage, consider the full employee experience to optimize it for retention.
Separation
Whether an employee resigns, retires, or is laid off or fired, it marks the end of their time as an employee. No matter the circumstances, human resources will want the parting to be smooth and respectful. Programs that help employees find a new position, recognize contributions, or facilitate keeping relationships can preserve your brand and keep things positive. The employee life cycle continues, in many cases, as employees become alumni, networking with each other, and ideally becoming advocates for your company and referring future hires.
What Are the Next Steps in Understanding the Employee Journey?
Learning how to optimize the employee life cycle and maximize employee satisfaction is just one part of what you’ll learn when pursuing your master’s degree in human resources. The benefits of earning your master’s in HR include acquiring knowledge and skills that take your career to the next level, preparing you to have a greater influence over the employee life cycle and a positive impact on employee satisfaction. You’ll also be fully prepared to assume rewarding leadership positions.
Knowing how to influence and improve the employee life cycle is a way to add value to your organization and to enhance the work experience of every employee. And for many, that is the main attraction to a career in human resources.
Is a Nursing Career Right for You?
Nurses care for patients, promote good health, and help prevent illness in hospitals, schools, and long-term care facilities. These professionals assess and record symptoms, collaborate with doctors to develop treatment plans, conduct exams, administer medications, and monitor patient recovery. Their work is crucial to helping patients recover from illnesses and lead healthy lives. If you’re interested in making a difference in the lives of others and working on the front lines of health care, a career in nursing might be for you.
Why Nursing Is a Good Career
One of the best things about being a nurse is the job security—these professionals will always be in demand. Let’s look at some other reasons why nursing is a promising career:
Nurses make a difference. Nurses provide hope, support patients and families with complex diagnoses, help celebrate good news, and more. Beyond their clinical roles, many nurses also volunteer in their communities and at health fairs, travel for events, and fundraise for charitable causes. Knowing you’ve helped others is a powerful aspect of the profession.
Nurses do exciting work. In the world of the nurse, no day is exactly the same. Nursing is versatile, and nurses can learn new skills and constantly apply them to changing environments.
You can choose your specialty. There are more than 100 nursing specialties to choose from! From flight nurse to NICU nurse, you can choose any specialty you want. The best part is that you can even move from one specialty to another to enhance your career.
Nurses can get excellent benefits. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2023, the median annual wage for registered nurses was $86,070. This is well above the median annual wage for all occupations nationwide. Plus, nurses get tons of great benefits like paid sick time, paid family leave, health and life insurance, child care, retirement benefits, tuition reimbursement, and more.
You can earn your nursing degree online. Online degree programs provide flexibility, allowing students to balance their studies with work, family, or other personal commitments. This is extremely helpful if you’re already working in health care. These programs can also put money back in your pocket.
Do You Share the Characteristics of a Nurse?
Nursing is a critically important and rewarding career. But it takes the right kind of person to balance medical knowledge with good bedside manner. If a career as a nurse sounds appealing, review the following common characteristics of nurses to discover how many you share:
Communication Skills
Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential for nurses. Clear communication builds trust, fosters collaboration with other health care providers, and helps patients make informed decisions about their care. By sharing accurate information, nurses ensure patient care quality, safety, and efficiency.
Empathy and Compassion
Empathy and compassion are essential to being a nurse. Empathy allows nurses to adopt a patient-centered approach by understanding and relating to their experiences, and compassion pushes nurses to be kind and patient. These traits inspire trust, promote emotional and psychological well-being, and reduce patient anxiety.
Critical Thinking
Critical thinking allows nurses to solve problems and adapt in a fast-paced environment where they often work under pressure. By applying evidence-based practices, nurses can navigate challenges confidently and provide thorough, patient-centered care.
Attention to Detail
Good time management and the ability to balance priorities help nurses pay attention to detail, allowing them to identify signs of complications, prevent errors, and provide personalized care. This skill promotes efficiency, reduces risks, and improves overall health care quality.
Willingness to Learn
Nurses must stay updated on the latest advancements to provide the best care and adapt to changes in the field. Nurses should join nursing associations and pursue continuing education to help improve their skills and enhance their knowledge. This ensures that they remain effective, confident, and capable of delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.
How Can I Get Started?
Nurses are vital to health care. They provide direct, compassionate care and serve as patients’ primary point of contact. Are you ready to pursue your career in nursing? To become a registered nurse, you can choose between two educational paths: an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing. Both programs prepare graduates for licensure and entry-level RN roles. However, to specialize or advance to higher-level positions, work experience and, in some cases, a master’s degree may be necessary.
Excelsior University offers online nursing degree programs at all levels, providing the knowledge and confidence needed to advance in your nursing career.
