Congratulations Graduates

Good Sunday smiles to everyone. It's graduation time for high school, colleges and universities, and technical colleges. As a matter of fact, the historically black college in Atlanta, Morehouse College is holding its 128th Commencement ceremony today. University President Robert M. Franklin, a 1975 Morehouse College graduate, will deliver his final commencement address at the ceremony.

This is truly a wonderful accomplishment for all the graduates who have successfully completed their studies and now can pursue where the road in life takes them. For high school students, thoughts of furthering their education come fall is wise. Don't let the high cost of attending college these days scare you off. Choose a local college or university as opposed to out-of-state where the fees are higher for those who are not residents. Plus, start out at a two-year college and snag an Associate's degree or trade certification.

The job market is tough for everybody right now and the recent graduate may be feeling even more challenged. Don't give up! Be willing to get your foot in the door at a company by accepting an entry-level position. The manager will notice your efficiency, hard work and willingness to go the 'extra mile'. A new job may open up within the company and a promotion offered to you.

The possibilities are endless so pursue them. Always put your best foot forward and never limit yourself, Congratulations!

Honesty is the best policy

The story buzzing last week was the discovery of an error on the resume of Yahoo CEO Scott Thompson. Apparently his resume stated he earned a degree in both Accounting and Computer Science. In reality, the CEO graduated with a degree in Accounting only. Now that's no small feat as accounting is a very hard subject and some people really have a way with numbers and know how to crunch them as the saying goes.

There was a call for Mr. Thompson to resign and he has done so while also revealing he has thyroid cancer. Check out the latest details on this story at CNN Money here. Thompson was only on the job at Yahoo four months and the company has been undergoing cost-cutting measures and revamping.

It's a tough job market for those seeking employment, but padding your resume with education, skills and experience you do not have is dishonest. Why run the risk of a hiring headhunter or the company finding out that information on the resume is false? Be honest and straightforward on your abilities. Keep in mind you will have to prove it when given a work project. In this case, the CEO is top-management.

One thing I found interesting was the vetting of the top candidate's credentials. There was clearly a misstep in the education confirmation with the institution where he received the degree.

Bottom line, honesty is the best policy. Don't fear looking over your shoulder wondering when this jig may be up.

Black History Month

 

The month of February kicks off Black History Month. It's a chance to highlight African-Americans who were trailblazers in history long ago and in this current day. From Harriett Tubman, The Tuskegee Airmen, Duke Ellington, poet Langston Hughes to Barack Obama, the first African-American President of the United States, the entire month is celebrated to give everyone a chance to learn more about black history. The opportunities and advances in music, education, film, fashion, medicine & science are strides many African-Americans have made that encourage others to never give up on their dreams.

Check out community events, school projects with the kids, college lectures, or concerts being held during Black History Month. Don't miss out and be inspired!

Jay-Z at Carnegie Hall

Jay-Z to raise money, perform at Carnegie Hall | accessAtlanta

Photo Credit: AP

WOW, this performance will surely get 2012 kicked off in February. The money raised will benefit the Shawn Carter Foundation and United Way of New York City. Even though Jay-Z did not graduate from high school, it's good he values the importance of education for youths today and is helping to promote it.