Earning your degree online ��DZ����’t mean you have to wait until after graduation to start building your resume. In fact, with the right strategies and support, you can gain hands-on experience, expand your professional network, and start making an impact in your field—right now. We can walk you through the practical and proven ways our students gain real-world experience while studying with us.

1. Pursue Internships and Externships

Internships are one of the most direct ways to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting. Many companies now offer remote internship opportunities, which means you can gain experience and make industry connections without relocating. ANU’s career services team can help connect students with internship and externship opportunities aligned with their career goals. Many of our health science programs, like Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Technician, and Radiologic Technician all require clinical training through externships to give those students the real-world experience they need to succeed. These externships happen in clinics local to them!

Be proactive. Search for internships on job platforms like Indeed, Handshake, or LinkedIn, and reach out to local businesses or healthcare facilities in your area.

2. Take Advantage of Virtual Labs and Simulations

At ANU, hands-on learning is integrated into online programs through virtual labs, simulation software, and real-world case studies. For example, medical assisting students receive at-home lab kits that allow them to practice key skills under faculty guidance. This includes using a simulation arm to learn how to draw blood and perform injections. Programs in cybersecurity, IT, and business incorporate simulated environments where students can apply theories in practical scenarios. These tools help bridge the gap between theory and practice—without needing to be in a traditional classroom.

3. Work or Volunteer in a Related Field

Many online students are already working while earning their degree. If you’re in a job that aligns with your field of study, make the most of that experience—treat it as an extension of your education. If you’re not yet working in your desired industry, consider volunteering. Healthcare clinics, nonprofits, and small businesses often need extra support and are willing to train passionate individuals. Volunteering not only builds your resume but also demonstrates initiative and community involvement—qualities employers value.

4. Join Professional Organizations

Becoming a student member of a professional organization is one of the smartest moves you can make while earning your degree. These organizations exist to support professionals at every stage of their careers—including students—and they offer valuable opportunities to build connections, learn from industry leaders, and stay informed about the latest developments in your field. You can gain access to exclusive resources like industry publications, job boards, certification discounts, mentorship programs, and leadership development opportunities. Many organizations also host virtual events, such as webinars, panel discussions, and online conferences—making it easy for online learners to participate no matter where they live.

Some of the organizations students can join are:

• Health students can join the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).
• Cybersecurity students can explore International Information System Security Certification Consortium ((ISC)²) or the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA).
• Business students may benefit from membership in The Society Human Resource Management (SHRM) or the American Management Association (AMA).

These affiliations can enhance your resume and help you stay current on industry trends.

5. Work on Freelance or Project-Based Gigs

For students in tech, computer design, accounting, or marketing, freelance work is an excellent way to build a portfolio.  It can be more than just a side hustle as it can be used to build your professional portfolio and gain hands-on experience while still in school. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer offer short-term projects that allow you to develop your skills while earning income. You can connect with real clients who need everything from website development to social media strategy and anything in between.

Even small projects count, Every freelance opportunity teaches valuable professional habits: how to pitch your skills, manage client expectations, meet deadlines, handle feedback, and solve real-world problems on your own. These soft skills—communication, time management, adaptability—are exactly what employers look for, no matter your field. They can lead to referrals, client testimonials, or long-term work relationships. More importantly, they help you grow your confidence and create a body of work that you can proudly showcase when applying for jobs after graduation.

6. Make the Most of ANU’s Career Services

At ANU, your career journey ��DZ����’t begin after graduation—it starts the moment you enroll. We understand that education is just one part of the equation. That’s why ANU’s dedicated Career Services team is here to help you turn your academic accomplishments into real-world opportunities. Whether you’re just beginning to explore your career options or actively applying for jobs, our career services team offers personalized support tailored to your goals. Need help crafting a polished resume or writing a cover letter that stands out? We’ve got you covered. Nervous about your first interview? Our team offers mock interviews, coaching sessions, and tips to help you present your best self—confident, prepared, and professional.

But the support ��DZ����’t stop there. ANU also provides access to job leads, career fairs (virtual and in-person), employer partnerships, and networking opportunities designed to connect students with industry professionals. You don’t have to wait until you graduate to start building your future. Students are encouraged to take advantage of these resources early and often—because the sooner you engage, the more confident and career-ready you’ll be by the time you earn your degree. At ANU, we’re not just preparing you for the next test—we’re preparing you for the next chapter.

Studying online ��DZ����’t mean studying alone—and it certainly ��DZ����’t mean putting your career on hold. At �鶹��, our students are proving every day that it’s possible to gain meaningful, real-world experience while earning a degree from the comfort of home. By combining flexible online coursework with internships, hands-on tools, professional networking, community engagement, and one-on-one career support, ANU students are building both confidence and credibility long before graduation. Your education is more than lectures and assignments—it’s a launching pad for your future. And with the right resources and determination, you can start gaining the experience you need to lead in your field from day one. Learn more at an.edu.

�鶹�� – Be live, in class, from anywhere.

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Here’s a look at what you can anticipate in your first few months as an online nursing student at ANU.

1. A Supportive and Structured Learning Environment

While online learning offers flexibility, that ��DZ����’t mean you’ll be navigating it alone. From the moment you log in, you’ll find that ANU’s virtual campus is designed with student success in mind. You’ll be introduced and have constant access to:

• Your student services advisor – someone who will help you plan your courses and answer questions about program requirements. Many students find success for the support they receive from these individuals. “I always, no matter what I ask her, I understand [when] it’s on a weekend or close to Friday or something, I don’t expect her to respond. But she is on her game at all times. Any time that you need her, she will respond,” ANU student, Amanda Bailey, about her student services advisor.
• Your instructors – experienced nursing professionals who guide you through course content, assignments, and clinical preparation. Most of our students agree that our professors give them the skills they need to succeed while giving them the support to keep going. ““She’s very well rounded and knows a lot of things! She makes you think deeper – you’re kind of rewiring your brain… like in our discussion posts, she’ll ask you questions on your discussions. Just the way you have to think about it, like I want to think like her! She brings such great knowledge to the classroom,” says ANU BSN student, Kylie Jett-Brown.
• Your peers – other nursing students just like you, forming a built-in support network through discussion boards and group projects. Our nursing students build a close-knit bond together. “It’s been really great, I feel with ANU you’re really not just a number. I feel like it’s a tight knit group of people, and they make you feel really welcome, too! I went to a different college before, and it was bigger, and there’s a huge difference,” says ANU student, Jimma Hall.

2. Key Courses and Core Curriculum

During your first semester, you’ll typically take a mix of general education and nursing-specific courses. These may include, but is not limited to:

• Introduction to Professional Nursing
• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Medical Terminology
• Nursing Informatics
• Health Assessment Fundamentals

These courses lay the groundwork for everything you’ll do in later semesters—from clinical decision-making to patient care planning. Expect reading assignments, recorded lectures, quizzes, interactive simulations, and discussion forums.

3. Learning Time Management and Self-Motivation

One of the biggest adjustments for new online students is managing your own schedule. At ANU, coursework is designed to be accessible 24/7, but that ��DZ����’t mean it’s self-paced. Deadlines still apply, and planning your week is key. Your education will be dedicated so that you learn the skill to be an outstanding nurse in the field. The good news? You can structure that time around your personal responsibilities. Tip: Set a regular study schedule early to build healthy habits.

For more time management tips and tricks, check out our blog on the subject!

4. Gaining Confidence with Technology

If you’re new to online learning, the first few weeks may feel like a tech crash course. ANU’s learning platform is intuitive, but it may take time to get used to features like:

• Course navigation
• Submitting assignments
• Participating in forums
• Attending live or recorded virtual lectures

Don’t worry—help is available. ANU offers technical support and student orientation tools to help you get comfortable quickly.

5. Preparation for Clinical Experience

While clinicals don’t typically start in your first semester, you’ll begin preparing for them early. You’ll learn how the clinical process works, what requirements to meet (such as background checks and immunizations), and what to expect when it’s time to apply your knowledge in a real-world setting.

This foundational knowledge helps reduce anxiety and ensures you’re ready when hands-on practice begins.

6. Balancing Life, Work, and School

Many students at ANU are working adults with families and have busy schedules. Your first semester is a great time to experiment with balancing your responsibilities. Create a dedicated study space, involve your support system, and communicate with instructors if life throws a curveball.

One of the biggest benefits of ANU’s online nursing program is the ability to learn on your terms—without putting your life on hold. Learn more about how you can keep this balance in our blog here.

Online Nursing at ANU

Your first semester as an online nursing student at �鶹�� will challenge and inspire you—with every lecture, assignment, and discussion helping you grow both academically and personally. While you’ll be adjusting to new routines and expectations, you’ll never be on your own. From expert instructors and personalized academic advising to flexible course access and a supportive peer community, ANU is built to help adult learners like you succeed. By the end of your first term, you’ll not only have a strong grasp of foundational nursing concepts—you’ll also gain the confidence, discipline, and momentum to thrive throughout the rest of the program. If you’re ready to take control of your future without putting your life on hold, check out �鶹��’s online BSN program and take that first bold step toward becoming the nurse you’re meant to be.

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At �鶹��, we have both bachelor’s and master’s programs in cybersecurity to train you to join this important and growing field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of information security is going to , much faster than the average career. As the field of cyber security grows, many students may wonder what jobs are out there for them to join. In this list, we’ll go over some of the many career options cybersecurity graduates can have.

Cybersecurity Manager

A cybersecurity manager plays a crucial role in protecting an organization’s digital assets by ensuring that security protocols align with business goals. As a leadership position, cybersecurity managers will oversee all cybersecurity projects and work within their team as well as manage a group of other cybersecurity technicians. It is a role that requires a combination of skills like technical expertise, leadership and team management, risk management, regulatory and compliance knowledge, and problem solving with critical thinking. Some of the things that are included, but not limited to, in this role include:

• Developing security procedures and policies
• Managing security teams
• Risk assessment and vulnerability management
• Incident response and recovery
• Monitoring and analyzing security systems

Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

A Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is a high-ranking executive responsible for developing and overseeing an organization’s cybersecurity strategy. As cyber threats become more advanced, businesses require strong leadership to ensure their data, networks, and systems remain secure. The CISO plays a critical role in protecting an organization’s assets while aligning security initiatives with overall business objectives. More than cybersecurity managers, they oversee all cybersecurity protocols, practices, and policies within an organization. Some skills needed for this role include regulatory and compliance expertise, leadership and communication, incident response and crisis management, and business and financial acumen. Some duties a CISO will do, but are not limited to, are:

• Develop and leading cybersecurity strategy
• Risk management and compliance oversight
• Security technology and innovation
• Employee training on cybersecurity awareness
• Managing security teams and budgeting

Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker)

A Penetration Tester, also known as an Ethical Hacker, is a cybersecurity professional who simulates cyberattacks to identify and fix vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can exploit them. These experts use the same techniques as cybercriminals but with legal authorization to strengthen an organization’s security defenses. They are responsible for assessing and improving an organization’s cybersecurity with skills like networking and system security knowledge, programming and scripting, web and application security, and knowledge of operating systems and cloud security. Some of the duties they perform, though only a brief list, are:

• Conducting security assessments with ethical hacking
• Vulnerability scanning and risk analysis
• Social engineering and phishing simulations to train/test employees
• Writing security reports and providing recommendations
• Compliance and regulatory testing

Cloud Security Engineer

The growth of technology has also seen the growth of cloud platforms. A Cloud Security Engineer specializes in securing cloud environments, ensuring that sensitive data, applications, and infrastructure are protected from cyber threats. These professionals design, implement, and maintain security controls to prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, and system vulnerabilities in cloud platforms. Key skills they need is an in-depth knowledge to cloud platforms like AWS and Google Cloud, networking and security protocols, identity and access management, encryption and data security, and threat detection. They perform duties that are integral to keeping business’s private information safe, which include, but are not limited to:

• Designing and implementing cloud security solutions
• Monitoring and responding to cloud security threats
• Securing data and cloud storage
• Ensuring compliance with security standards
• Automating security processes

Why You Should Pursue an Education in Cybersecurity

As businesses continue to migrate to the cloud, utilizing more technology, and cyber threats become more sophisticated, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals to fill the roles, like the ones focused on here, is at an all-time high. Their importance to the modern business and organization cannot be exaggerated – cybersecurity professionals are needed in every sector. If you’re looking to join or grow in this fast-growing field, earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree in cybersecurity can give you the expertise and credentials you need to stand out.

At �鶹��, we offer undergraduate and graduate programs in Cybersecurity, giving you the opportunity to build a strong foundation or take your skills to the next level. Our bachelor’s in Cybersecurity provides essential training in network security, incident response and disaster recovery, computer forensics, and ethical hacking, among many courses, preparing students for roles such as security analysts and network defenders. For those looking to advance further, our master’s in Cybersecurity focuses on leadership, advanced threat management, risk assessment, and cloud security, helping professionals qualify for high-level positions in the field.

With flexible online courses, experienced faculty, and career-focused training, ANU’s cybersecurity programs are designed to fit your schedule while preparing you for in-demand roles in today’s digital world. If you’re ready to launch or advance your cybersecurity career, learn more about ANU’s programs today! Your future in protecting the digital world starts here.

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Medical Records Technician

1. What You’ll Do in This Job: Medical records technicians organize and maintain health records in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. They ensure patient data is accurate, complete, and accessible when needed. This gathering a patient’s symptoms and test results with their medical history to enter into EHR systems.
2. Where You Can Work: Hospitals, physician offices, insurance companies
3. Possible Salary: With relevant experience and education, the median annual wage was around $48,780 in May 2023.

Medical Coder

1. What You’ll Do: Medical coders translate patient diagnoses and procedures into codes for billing and insurance purposes. They work with healthcare providers like doctors and nurses to ensure claims are accurate and submitted correctly to the appropriate channels.
2. Where You Can Work: Hospitals, physicians offices, insurance companies
3. Possible Salary: With relevant experience and education, the annual wage was between .

Health Information Technician

1. What You’ll Do: Health information technicians analyze patient data to ensure accuracy, accessibility, and security. They often assist in designing, developing, and implementing HER systems and ensuring compliance with regulations in their industry, .
2. Where You Can Work: Hospitals, outpatient centers, government agencies, insurance companies
3. Possible Salary: With relevant experience and education, the median annual wage for this field was $62,990 in May 2023, .

Health Data Analyst

1. What You’ll Do: Health data analysts collect and interpret patient and hospital data to identify trends, improve patient outcomes, and support administrative decision making. clinical data, like medical records, insurance data, like claims, pharmaceutical data, like research or drug information, behavioral data, like consumer behavior, and public health data, like biostatistics.
2. Where You Can Work: Hospitals, insurance companies, research institutions, medical offices
3. Possible Salary: With relevant experience and education, the average annual base salary for this field is $70,082, .

Compliance and Privacy Officer

1. What You’ll Do: Compliance officers in the healthcare field to patient privacy, such as Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). They may conduct audits on healthcare records, facilities, and staff, and they may train staff on compliance policies.
2. Where You Can Work: Hospitals, clinics, government agencies
3. Possible Salary: With relevant experience and education, the average annual base salary could be over $100,000, .

Why You Should Choose a Career in Healthcare Information Management

Choosing a career in HIM offers job stability, diverse work environments, and opportunities for advancement through certifications like the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT). With healthcare facilities increasingly relying on electronic health records and data security, skilled professionals are needed now more than ever. By enrolling in �鶹��’s Health Information Management associate degree program, you’ll gain the technical knowledge and hands-on training needed to thrive in this evolving industry. Whether you’re interested in medical coding, billing, or health data analysis, ANU’s program provides a strong foundation to launch your career in this essential field. To learn more about this field or ANU’s program, go to an.edu.

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Network Administrator

A network administrator is the first job that would come to mind when earning a network administration bachelor’s degree. They have a crucial role in maintaining an organization’s IT infrastructure. They are responsible for managing and troubleshooting networks to ensure that all systems remain secure, efficient, and connected. Their duties can typically include configuring routers and switches, monitoring network performance, implementing cybersecurity measures, and providing technical support to employees, among many other responsibilities depending on a business or organization’s needs. And as businesses increasingly rely on digital communication and cloud-based systems, skilled network administrators are essential to preventing downtime, optimizing performance, and safeguarding sensitive data. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy problem-solving, working with technology, and keeping organizations running smoothly in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Listings for this kind of job can lead to over 750 jobs on a LinkedIn United States search as of February 2025.

Systems Administrator

While the name is similar to the aforementioned role, there is a difference in responsibilities between the roles and how you would utilize your network administration degree in them. A systems administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining an organization’s IT systems, ensuring that servers, networks, and software operate efficiently and securely. Their duties include installing and configuring operating systems, managing user accounts and permissions, troubleshooting technical issues, and implementing security protocols to protect sensitive data, among many depending on the needs of the role. While similar to a network administrator, who focuses primarily on network infrastructure and connectivity, a systems administrator is more concerned with the overall functionality of IT systems, including servers, applications, and user access. They play a vital role in keeping an organization’s IT infrastructure running smoothly, minimizing downtime, and optimizing system efficiency. his career is well-suited for individuals who enjoy working with technology, solving complex problems, and ensuring seamless IT operations in a fast-paced digital world. A search for this job on Indeed in the United States can yield over 500 jobs as of February 2025.

Cybersecurity Analyst

A field that network administration degree holders can go into with their knowledge is cybersecurity. One of those jobs can include being a cybersecurity analyst. They are responsible for protecting an organization’s networks, systems, and data from cyber threats. Their duties include monitoring network activity for suspicious behavior, conducting vulnerability assessments, and implementing security measures such as firewalls, encryption, and intrusion detection systems, as well as anything else a client would want protected within their computer networks. There would also be investigations on security breaches and education for employees for safe practices. With the rise of cyber threats, businesses rely on these professionals to safeguard sensitive information and ensure compliance with security regulations. This career is ideal for individuals who are detail-oriented, enjoy problem-solving, and are passionate about defending digital assets in an ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape. In today’s digital age, cybersecurity jobs are many as companies need trained professionals to keep their trades and secrets under lock and key.

Cloud Administrator

As technology advances, so does the use of cloud computing. As more things become digital, there will be more of a need for those professionals to control a cloud-based computing environment. A cloud administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining an organization’s cloud computing infrastructure, ensuring that cloud-based systems run efficiently, securely, and reliably. Their duties include configuring cloud environments, managing user access and security settings, optimizing resource usage, and troubleshooting performance issues, with any other responsibility expected of them within their organization. Cloud administrators can work with platforms such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud to deploy and manage virtual servers, storage, and networking solutions. As more businesses migrate to the cloud, skilled cloud administrators are essential for maintaining scalable, cost-effective, and secure cloud environments. This career is perfect for individuals who enjoy working with cutting-edge technology, problem-solving, and optimizing cloud-based solutions in a rapidly growing field. This job search yields over 700 job postings within the United States on LinkedIn as of February 2025.

VoIP Engineer

Cell phones, mobile devices, tablets, iPads, and more are in use by millions if not billions of people all across the globe. With the expansion of these devices comes the need for Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) engineers. They specialize in designing, implementing, and maintaining internet-based communication systems that enable voice and video calls over networks. Their responsibilities include configuring VoIP hardware and software, optimizing call quality, troubleshooting connectivity issues, and ensuring seamless integration with existing IT infrastructure. VoIP engineers also implement security measures to protect communication systems. They can work with systems like Cisco, Avaya, and Asterisk to manage call routing, voicemail systems, and communication systems. As businesses continue to shift from traditional phone systems to VoIP technology, these professionals play a crucial role in providing reliable, cost-effective, and high-quality communication solutions. This career is ideal for individuals who enjoy networking, problem-solving, and working with cutting-edge communication technologies. A job search for these careers can produce over 300 postings on Indeed as of February 2025.

Earning a Network Administration bachelor’s degree from �鶹�� opens the door to a variety of in-demand IT careers as mentioned previously, among the many else that are available to these degree holders. With businesses increasingly relying on technology, skilled professionals are essential to keeping systems secure, efficient, and connected. At ANU, students gain hands-on training, industry-relevant knowledge, and the flexibility of online learning, preparing them for real-world challenges in IT. To learn more about our program and how it can help you earn the career you have been wanting, go to an.edu.

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The Unique Places a Nurse Can Work

If a nurse is seeking a different environment than a hospital or medical office, then they can find it in even the most unsuspecting places.

• Cruise Ships: While cruises are thought of to be fun, there can always be causes for accidents or mishaps. Nurses can be aboard these ships to provide a wide range of medical care to passengers and crew. employ nurses to “act as first responders” or “provide individualized outpatient, inpatient, and ICU care for guests and crew.”
• Theme Parks: Theme parks are exciting and fulfill a need for adrenaline and adventure. These situations can also call for emergency medical staff to handle anything from minor injuries or critical situations. An example of this would be something called a – those RNs that are on site for those in the parks and hotels.
• Schools and Universities: Every K-12 student has interacted with a school nurse during their tenure of education. If those students continue into higher education in person, they can go to a nursing office there as well. These nurses can handle things like allergic reactions, address student health, promote wellness, and handle emergencies.
• Correctional Facilities: Those incarcerated are entitled to healthcare just as anyone outside of prison. – where they can mainly deal with assisting prisoners with chronic conditions. They are also there to help assist in emergencies for both prisoners, officers, and administration alike.
• Forensic Nursing: When violent crimes happen, nurses that are sensitive to these situations are needed to care for victims. According to , forensic nurses “provide specialized care for patients who are experiencing acute and long-term health consequences associated with victimization or violence, and/or have unmet evidentiary needs relative to having been victimized or accused of victimization.” They can also provide testimony for civil or criminal cases in this field, whether that is from the care they’ve given or their opinions in these cases.
• Military Bases: Military bases need nursing care for the men and women who lay their life on the line to defend our country, their spouses, and their dependents. Those who have served can be can work within these bases to provide care.
• Midwifery: These nurses specialize in women’s reproductive health and childbirth. And they can provide care from adolescence to when women hit menopause. Some of their scope of duties, according to the , include providing prenatal and postpartum care, providing education for new parents on how to care for their newborns, supporting new parents with breastfeeding, and performing preventative healthcare through screenings and tests.
• Telehealth: Something that started to grow and boom during the Covid-19 pandemic is . This has allowed nurses to do remote work in a field that is mainly seen with nurses in person. In this profession, nurses provide care through mainly video conferencing to remote locations that may not otherwise have access to such care.

Nursing is far more than a job confined to hospitals and clinics—it’s a dynamic career that offers endless possibilities to make a meaningful impact in unexpected places. Whether it’s navigating patient care on a cruise ship, providing expert legal opinion, helping those who serve our country, or working remotely, nurses have the power to shape lives in so many different ways. Nursing is a career that is flexible and bends with society’s needs – so opportunities are out there in ways many may never guess. And with technology advancing, society developing, and people changing, nurses are needed more than ever to meet the medical needs of all people. Joining the ranks of nurses who help people on their health journey isn’t out of reach! With ANU’s associate and bachelor’s degree programs, people can become nurses faster and even remotely. To learn more, check out our Nursing Career Guide to find out if this career path is meant for you.

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First: Understand How Your Degree Fits the Job Market

When graduating, it’s important to begin your search for things that relate to your major and the skills you earned during your education. For example, an English major may look for jobs that have to do with writing, editing, or communications, while a biology major looks for jobs within healthcare, research, or environmental science. For ANU students, most of our programs are designed to transfer into a career – so our Pharmacy Technician students can begin work in a pharmacy, or our Medical Assistants in a clinic, or our Cybersecurity students within a business’s security department.

However, it is important for graduates to know that careers are not strictly their majors. While pharmacy technicians are typically seen in retail or hospital pharmacies, but also within research labs or within government or regulatory bodies. Medical assistants can work within clinics or hospitals, but also outpatient care centers, research centers, or insurance companies among other opportunities. And cybersecurity professionals can work within a business’s security department, government agencies, or even own their own businesses defeating cyber criminals.

Tip: Highlight your transferable skills you developed during your studies – such as critical thinking, research, communication, and problem solving. These skills are important to every career field, so emphasize them on your resume and in your interviews.

Second: Consider Additional Certifications or Training

Sure, you just earned your degree. What more could you do? For many careers, having specific qualifications or certifications can help you find a career. If a medical assistant graduate joined our Phlebotomy and ECG Training program, this could open up opportunities in a specific part of the healthcare field. If a cybersecurity graduate enrolled in our business diploma program, they could understand more about how security affects a business or even the steps they need to take to create their own cyber security business. If a business administration graduate took our accounting diploma program, they could better understand bookkeeping or accounts payable/receivable.

Tip: Online platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and others offer specialized courses that can boost your marketability. Target courses that align with the roles you’re pursuing.

Three: Network!

Networking is one of the most important parts of finding and making a career after graduation. While ANU is an online environment, our students can still network not only with each other, but their professors and faculty, too. Alumni networks are invaluable to entering your career field so that you can find people to help you find your next move.

Tip: Attend industry events and join professional organizations. For example, ANU is part of an organization that provides “resources and a platform for academic and professional development.” This is one of many professional organizations’ graduates can join in order to network with people within their field.

Four: Stay Open to Entry-Level Opportunities

Entry-level may not always be the ideal goal of a career, especially after putting in years of work to earn your education. However, joining these roles can not only provide you with valuable experience, but pivot the direction of your career in a place you may not have thought before. If you majored in business administration, a role in sales or customer service may still offer you some beneficial information about the market of a business or what customers are wanting. If you joined a medical assistant program, working in a physician’s office can help you develop rapport with patients and enhance your phlebotomy and diagnostic skills.

Tip: Focus on your growth potential rather. Choose roles where you see opportunities to learn and grow. Even if it’s not your ideal position, experience in your industry will make you more competitive when applying for your dream role.

Five: When in Doubt, Consult Career Services

One of the benefits of ANU education is having our dedicated Career Services team to help you navigate the world after graduating. You should rely on them to help you with many things, like resume building or editing, finding job postings tailored to your field, and even prep for interviews with mock interviews. They tailor the consultation to you and your experience/needs.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Nobody gets anywhere alone.

Bridging the gap between college and a meaningful career may seem daunting, but it’s an achievable goal with the right mindset, strategies, and support. Transitioning successfully involves recognizing the value of your academic experiences, honing transferable skills, and staying adaptable in an ever-changing job market. It’s a journey, not a race, so as long as you make it to your goals, it ��DZ����’t matter how long it takes to get there. Reflect on all you’ve learned in your education, lean on those who are there to support you, and be proactive. The future is full of possibilities—embrace it with confidence and determination.

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Educational Requirements

Though regulations and requirements vary by state and even by employer, there is still a good amount of education a pharmacy technician needs to have in order to work in a pharmacy.

At a minimum for every state, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Previously, technicians in places like retail pharmacies could earn on the job training. However, more and more employers are seeking candidates who have completed a formal pharmacy technician training program. And students, like ANU’s own Evanne Rakers, have found that earning her education at ANU was far better for her understanding than working in a busy pharmacy. “Working with on-the-job training, it was so busy that they didn’t stop to take the time to personally train you how to do things or show you how to do things… I think it’s a lot better to go through the courses so that you can learn at your own pace. When you go into the pharmacy world, you learn stuff, but you don’t get a thorough learning of everything… I think going into a pharmacy after having the training is a lot better than being thrown into the mix.”

�鶹��’s pharmacy technician programs are programmatically accredited by the Pharmacy Technician Accrediting Commission (PTAC). Students learn to use PioneerRx, the software used in pharmacies across the country to prepare them for their career. Additionally, students get sent lab kits to do at home under the careful instruction of our professors, like Telicia Ward-Thomas, who just was awarded a 2024 Golden Goggles Student Champion of the Year by for her commitment to her students learning and understanding. Additionally, students must participate in two 120-hour externships, for a total of 240 hours, to gain hands-on experience at a pharmacy local to them. Our associate degree program is designed to make competent, skilled, and capable pharmacy technicians.

While education is not required of a pharmacy technician in all states, it is quickly becoming the norm for many employers.

Certification and Licensure

The certification and licensure requirements for pharmacy technicians are essential to ensuring quality standards in the field. Although requirements differ by state, certification is widely recognized as a mark of competence, enhancing job prospects and sometimes even necessary for employment. Certification often starts with the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), administered by the ). To be eligible, candidates generally need to complete a PTCB-recognized education program or equivalent work experience. Passing the PTCE demonstrates proficiency in core areas such as pharmacy law, medication safety, and inventory management, which are integral to the pharmacy technician’s role. According to the PTCB, certification needs to be renewed every two years, requiring certified technicians to meet continuing education requirements to stay current with industry standards​.

Licensure, distinct from certification, varies by state and may involve passing a state-specific exam. Many states require pharmacy technicians to register with the state’s board of pharmacy, a process that may include background checks and proof of training or certification. Accredited programs, such as those approved by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), are often favored by employers, as these programs meet high industry standards and prepare students for both certification exams and state licensure​, like ANU’s programs are. By the end of our programs, diploma or associate degree, students will take the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) exam through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) as part of our Pharmacy Tech Exam Success class.

These certifications and licensure standards help create a consistent level of expertise, which is crucial in a field where precision and safety are paramount. And as the largest generation, the boomer generation, continues to age and need more medical attention, pharmacy technicians being trained and licensed/certified is more important than ever.

The pathway to becoming a pharmacy technician involves meeting essential requirements, from completing foundational education to obtaining certification and licensure. These steps ensure that pharmacy technicians possess the knowledge and skills needed to perform their duties safely and effectively. For those asking, ‘what are the requirements to be a pharmacy technician?’, it’s clear that each stage plays a vital role in preparing for a successful and rewarding career in healthcare. ANU’s programs help prepare you for being in a pharmacy, give you the opportunity to get hands-on training both at home and within a real pharmacy, and prepares you to sit for the CPhT exam so that you can flourish in your future career. To learn more about ANU’s programs, go to an.edu.

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A Brief History

The first iteration of the GI Bill came into existence in 1944, called the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act. It was signed into law by Franklin D. Roosevelt to provide World War II veterans with funds for unemployment insurance, housing, and college education. As detailed by the , “the Department of Labor estimated that, after the war, 15 million men and women who had been serving in the armed services would be unemployed.” So a white house agency, the National Resources Planning Board, studied what the post-war needs would be in early 1942 and recommended a series of programs for education and training.

The American Legion “designed the main features of what became the Serviceman’s Readjustment Act and pushed it through Congress. The bill unanimously passed both chambers of Congress in the spring of 1944” (The National Archives). And President Roosevelt signed in into law just days after the invasion of Normandy. It was American Legion publicist, Jack Cejnar, who called it the “GI Bill of Rights,” leading to the name of these financial benefits to service members throughout the years. Within the next seven years of it being signed into action, about 8 million veterans received educational benefits from this bill.

Types of GI Bill Programs

There are several , each tailored to different service members and veterans:

1. Post-9/11 GI Bill: This is the most widely used in this day, veterans and service members must have started their service on or after September 11, 2001. It covers tuition, fees, housing, and books. If your last day on active duty was on or after January 1, 2013, you can use your benefits anytime, they won’t expire. If your last day on active duty was on or before January 1, 2013, you have 15 years from your last day on active duty to use these benefits. You can get up to 36 months of benefits with this GI Bill.
2. Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty (MGIB-AD): The required service date depends on certain factors for this GI Bill – when you served on active duty or if your military pay decreased, for example. However, you must have served between two and four years, where the minimum amount of time depends on other factors. to read more on the Veteran’s Affairs (VA) website. You have 10 years from your last day on active duty to use these benefits. You can get up to 36 months of benefits with this GI Bill.
3. Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR): This is for service members who agreed to serve for a period after June 30, 1985, and you must have agreed to serve 6 years in the Selected Reserve or you’re an officer in the Selected Reserve and you agreed to service 6 years in addition to your initial service obligation (Veterans Affairs). You can only use these benefits while serving in the Selected Reserve, once you leave, you are no longer eligible. You can get up to 36 months of benefits with this GI Bill.
4. Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E): Those service members are eligible to apply for VR&E if they didn’t receive a dishonorable discharge and have a service connected disability rating of at least 10% from the VA. If those service members were discharged before January 1, 2013, your “basic period of eligibility ends 12 years from one of two dates” of whichever comes later: the date you received notice of your date of separation from active duty or the date you received your first VA service connected disability rating (Veterans Affairs). If you were discharged from active duty on or after January 1, 2013, there’s no time limit to use these benefits. If you were discharged before January 1, 2013, you have 12 years from 1 of the aforementioned dates to use your benefits. You can get up to 48 months of this benefit.
5. The Yellow Ribbon Program: This benefit stems from the Post 9/11 GI Bill at the 100% benefit level. This can help you pay for higher out-of-state, private school, foreign school, or graduate school tuition and fees that the original Post 9/11 GI Bill ��DZ����’t cover. to read the requirements for this program.

What the GI Bill Covers

• College tuition and fees: Depending on the program, your GI Bill benefits can cover full in-state tuition at public colleges or up to a capped amount at a private intuition.
• Housing allowance: The Post 9/11 GI Bill provides a monthly housing stipend based on the location of the school.
• Books and supplies: Veterans or service members can receive up to $1,000 annually to help with supplies for their classes.

How to Apply

1. Determine Your Eligibility: The first step is to verify which GI Bill program you’re eligible for by visiting the .
2. Gather Your Documents: You’ll need a copy of your DD-214 discharge papers, information on your desired school or program, and any prior education records.
3. Submit an Application: You can apply online through the VA’s eBenefits portal or by mailing in a paper application (VA Form 22-1990).
4. Get Accepted: Once your application is approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Eligibility, which you’ll submit to your school’s veterans’ affairs office.

Maximize Your GI Bill Benefits

We answered how does the GI bill work? As a benefit meant to empower those who have risked their lives for our country, it is imperative that veterans and service members know what they can use within their education. The GI Bill is an invaluable resource that has empowered countless veterans and their families to pursue higher education and career advancement after military service. �鶹�� is proud to not only have veterans working within our institution, but to also provide key benefits to service members and veterans to earn their education. In many ways, we support our military community by:

• Offering understanding and support from those who have been in your shoes.
• Helping service members apply their military training and education to applicable credits in their programs.
• Transferring credits from other institutions to give you a head start on your career.
• Providing exclusive military grants and benefits so that veterans and service members do not have to worry about the financial aspect of education after serving our country.

Learn more about how we value those who have risked their lives to keep our country safe by going to an.edu/military.

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Works Cited

National Archives. (n.d.). Servicemen’s Readjustment Act (1944).

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). Compare VA education benefits.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). Eligibility for veteran readiness and employment (Chapter 31).

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty (MGIB-AD).

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). Yellow Ribbon Program.

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Defining Legal Assistant and Paralegal

1. Legal Assistant: According to : “A legal assistant is a professional who provides administrative and clerical support to lawyers and other legal professionals.” Their duties may include scheduling meetings, preparing legal documents, answering phones, and organizing case files. While they may assist with legal work, their primary role is often administrative.
2. Paralegal: According to the : “A paralegal is a person, qualified by education, training or work experience who is employed or retained by a lawyer, law office, corporation, governmental agency or other entity and who performs specifically delegated substantive legal work for which a lawyer is responsible.” Paralegals are more involved in substantive legal work. They may draft legal documents, conduct legal research, and assist in case preparation. Their responsibilities often require a deeper understanding of the law, and many paralegals have specialized education or certification.

Key Differences Between Paralegals and Legal Assistants

While the roles are distinct, there are some overlaps. For example, both legal assistants and paralegals may help organize legal files, draft documents, and assist lawyers in preparing cases. The key differences, however, are:

• Educational Requirements – Paralegals typically undergo more formalized education than legal assistants. They often hold an associate degree or a certificate in paralegal studies. Some pursue professional certifications like the Certified Paralegal (CP) designation from the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) or the Registered Paralegal (RP) from the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)​. In contrast, legal assistants may complete certificate or diploma programs, they typically to have formal education beyond a high school diploma, learning on the job or transferring from other administrative roles.
• Type of Work – Legal assistants focus more on administrative tasks. Their responsibilities often involve clerical duties, like maintaining files, managing schedules, answering phones, and drafting basic documents. They help lawyers with office management and ensure smooth operations but generally do not work directly on legal casework. However, Paralegals will perform more specialized legal tasks. They assist lawyers by conducting research, drafting legal documents, interviewing witnesses, and preparing materials for court cases. What is common for both, though, is that neither can give legal advice or represent clients for any legal matter.
• Career Growth – Paralegals often have more opportunities for career growth, especially in large firms or specialized areas of law, thanks to their legal expertise. They may advance into senior paralegal roles or specialize in areas such as corporate law, family law, or litigation. With their education, many paralegals also advance their degrees. Legal assistants, while valuable in law firms, typically do not have the same kind of range within the legal field, as their roles are more administrative.

Clearing Up the Confusion

To answer the question posed before – is a legal assistant the same as a paralegal? – it can be answered with a no. While it’s common for people to use the terms “legal assistant” and “paralegal” interchangeably, they are distinct roles with different responsibilities, education requirements, and career opportunities. Understanding these differences is important for individuals exploring a legal career and for law firms looking to build an effective team. Those who are detail-oriented and enjoy administrative work may find fulfillment as legal assistants. Meanwhile, those who wish to be more involved in legal research and casework may pursue a career as a paralegal, which offers greater opportunities for specialization and advancement​. Both roles are incredibly vital to a law firm, but their contributions to their workplace differ. To learn more about how you can become a paralegal, go to an.edu.

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