Slinga da Ink, Union!

Hey Union! It was so wonderful being back on your campus. Being a graduate of Union myself, I might be a tad bit biased, but I truly think it is the most beautiful campus around! Everyone was so warm and welcoming, and I must say, you students came dressed to impress.

Enjoy the pictures!!!

Just a reminder Union Students, if you post a comment on THIS post before Tuesday, November 4th, you are entered to win a gift card to your favorite restaurant! Get postin'!

Quote of the Week

"Run when you can, walk when you have to, crawl if you must; just never give up."

-Dean Karnazes, Runner and Author of Ultra marathon Man

Quote of the Week

"You can learn a lot more from listening than you can from talking. Find someone with whom you don’t agree in the slightest and ask them to explain themselves at length. Then take a seat, shut your mouth, and don’t argue back. It’s physically impossible to listen with your mouth open."
-- John Moe, Radio host and author

In the workplace, you are definitely going to find people that don't agree with you, or vice versa. It can be so aggravating.

Luckily, I have learned that differing opinions and ideas are what make the workplace exciting and allow you to grow. I have to admit, it takes A LOT of willpower to set through the explanation of something that you vehemently disagree with. It is definitely a skill I am still working on. But, if you do set back and listen...really listen, you will find that you can start to develop an appreciation for new ideas.

Listening can transform a hostile situation into a positive one. Nothing is better than a work environment where everyone feels welcome to express their opinions. Give it a try.

In the Shoes of a Risk Analyst

Magally is a friend and coworker and I couldn't think of a finer person to interview. She has worked at AHS for almost three years. She came to us from Florida Hospital Orlando, where she had been working for two years in the finance department.

Magally attended Southern University, but graduated from Pacific Union College with a bachelors in Business Administration in 2003.

The typical day of a Risk Analyst, is far from typical-every day is different. Magally is continually working on different insurance policies to cover the 37 hospitals and 17 nursing facilities in the AHS system. When not working on insurance, she finds herself helping various Risk Managers at different facilities with questions or working on Loss Information.

She loves AHS because it is a wonderful place to work, the people are genuine and friendly and everyone is working for a greater cause, "Extending the healing ministry of Christ" through healthcare.

Magally is a super fun gal and when she isn't at work, you can find her hanging with her hubby, Tim, or her friends. When asked to describe herself in three words, she said that she is organized, sincere, and ambitious. One goal that she hopes to accomplish in her lifetime is to make a positive difference in our world.

On a personal note, I want to congratulate Magally, as she is two classes away from finishing her MBA! That is a huge accomplishment. For that, I salute you:)

Ask Stephanie

Dear Stephanie,

I am a sophomore in college and I was wondering how soon I need to start thinking about my future career? My major is Business Finance.

Thanks,

Hopeful in Huntsville

Dear Hopeful,

It is never too early to start making plans and decisions regarding your future career. When looking over resumes from recent college graduates, I am so impressed by candidates who have had some experience in their field.

For a college student, that can be hard. I know that time doesn't grow on trees, especially with classes and a social life to juggle. I would recommend the following things to start setting the foundation for an easy transition into the workforce.

1) Part-time Job: If you can work, try finding a position that will help you in your future career. For example, try working part-time at a bank, etc.

2) Internships: Summer or part time internships are a wonderful way to get the experience that will put you ahead of the game when graduation comes along. If you can get an internship at a company where you would like to work after graduation, it is a wonderful way to break into the system.

3) Clubs: Get involved with clubs on your campus that go along with your future career goals. Being the President of the Finance club will look great on your resume!

4) Connect: Look for any opportunity to network with people. Make sure to attend those career fairs starting early. Also, many companies do interviews on campus. Go to them to get experience and to get your name out there.

5) Use Resources: Most colleges have a Career Center whose main goal is to get you ready for the workforce. They, many times, offer career strength testing, mock interviews, and much more. They also are the first to know about job openings that are advertised to the colleges. Get to know the staff and tell them about your future goals, so when the right job does become available, they will automatically think of you!

Time flies in college...trust me! Before you know it, you will be marching down the aisle in your cap and gown! Make sure that you are well prepared for your career future so that day is a joyous one, not one spent worrying:) Good luck!

Sincerely,

Stephanie

See you soon, Union!

Greetings, Union Students! I just wanted to remind you that next Wednesday, October 29th, I will be on your campus for the Career Fair in the Don Love Building. Make sure to come check out the AHS booth, get cool giveaways, and get your picture taken! See you soon.

Your space?

If I were to poll the readers of this blog, I would venture to guess that 90% of you have a Facebook or Myspace account, or even both. I do and so do most of my friends. In fact, I was watching a show the other day that said Facebook has so many visits per month that the number equals to if everyone in the WORLD visited at least 6 times! That's a lot of visits!

Not only are both of these sites a great way to keep in touch with friends and loved ones, but they are also a great place to be creative and chronicle your life as it is happening.

Recently, I have heard story after story of scandalous things being uncovered on Facebook/Myspace. Everything from beauty queens being dethroned because of racy pictures to arrests being made due to incriminating blogs written! I have even heard some companies use these sites as a tool to sift through potential candidates. Many candidates are turned down because they might have pictures reflecting a party type lifestyle that the company thinks might affect their work ethic.

With all of this coming to light, I thought I would just stress the importance of being careful of what you choose to post and write on any site that can be viewed by the public. Think twice before posting pictures that might not show you in the greatest light, even if they are a joke.

Before I post anything, I always think, "Would my mom be proud of this?" This is especially true now that my Mom has both Myspace and Facebook accounts! Crazy:)

Congratulations, Raphael!

Thanks for all of the great comments, Oakwood! It was wonderful meeting you all and I would love to help each of you find a place at AHS!

Our winner for the gift card drawing was Raphael! Congratulations!

Oakwood Trip

What an awesome trip! I had never been on Oakwood's campus before and I was blown away! It is beautiful and the students and faculty are so welcoming and hospitable. I can't wait to go back. If you are an Oakwood student, I am so glad you are visiting the blog! Remember to leave a comment on this post before Friday and you are entered to win a gift card to your favorite restaurant:) Enjoy the pictures!

Quote of the Week

"I used to think that going to the jungle made my life an adventure. However, after years of unusual work in exotic places, I realize that it is not how far off I go, or how deep into the forest I walk that gives my life meaning. I see that living life fully is what makes life – anyone’s life, no matter where they do or do not go – an adventure."-- Maria Fadiman Geographer, ethno botanist and National Geographic Emerging Explorer

I love this quote...your life can be an adventure no matter where you are! Go out and live it!

Get Ready, Get Set...Oakwood!

Greetings Oakwoodites! Just a reminder that I am heading to your school in one week! Come to the Oakwood Career Fair to find out more about AHS opportunities and to get some fun giveaways! Don't forget to get your picture taken to be featured on the blog!! See you soon:)

In the shoes of an AHS Accountant

Numbers are fun, and so is Rebecca Chang. After graduating from Andrews University, she has worked as an accountant at AHS for about 1 ½ years. She also worked as a student worker at AHS for four years in high school.

The typical day of an AHS accountant consists of a variety of activities! Rebecca describes the main duties as the posting of daily journal entries, the processing of daily transfers and the reconciling of monthly statements.

She was attracted to work for AHS because the Christian work environment, the location, and all the cool people that she already knew that were employed there. Rebecca enjoys her job because she is constantly challenged and growing.

When not at work, you can find Rebecca exercising or reading a good book. She’s a morning person and is at the gym at sunrise!

Rebecca describes herself as committed, consistent and understanding. A future goal that she has for herself is to learn to fluently speak Mandarin.

I met Rebecca in the lunch room and she is the sweetest person ever. I feel so blessed to have her as a friend and to have her at AHS!

Hot Jobs

Here are a few hot jobs around the system that I thought you might like to know about!

Quote of the Week

On my Starbuck's cup this morning:

"The world bursts at the seams with people ready to tell you you're not good enough. On occasion, some may be correct. But do not do their work for them. Seek any job; ask anyone out; pursue any goal. Don't take it personally when they say "no"--they may not be smart enough to say "yes"."

--Keith Olbermann
Broadcast journalist and host of MSNBC's Countdown with Keith Olbermann

Resumes

In my job, I see a lot of resumes--some good and sadly, some bad. I know how important a great resume is, and how much it reflects on the candidate and their chances of making a stellar first impression. A resume can make the difference between getting an interview and being put in a stack of maybes. Here is a list of things I think are important to remember when constructing your resume.

Things to Remember When Writing a Resume

1. Have a well written, clear objective.

I often get resumes where it is hard to figure out what kind of a position the candidate is looking for. Make sure your resume states clearly what your goal is.

2. Find an organized resume format that fits the position you are seeking.

Formatting can make a resume sink or float! Take the time to look online at sample resumes and find the format and style that works for you! Make sure that it flows and is easy to read.

3. Only include pertinent information.

Try to only incorporate information that is useful to the employer! Don’t try to fluff up your resume to add content. An employer wants to quickly read through and get the gist of who you are and what you've done. They don’t have time to read a book!

4. Keep your sentences short and sweet!

Make sure your sentences are concise and precise. Start each sentence with an action verb that emphasizes your role at the company and instills in the reader your responsibilities.

5. Grammar, Grammar, Grammar!

I have seen many resumes that I want to toss in the trash because of misspellings, grammar, and punctuation. Although I was a teacher for five years, punctuation and spelling are not my forte. I understand if it’s not yours, but there is help out there. Find a trusted friend, professor, or someone at the Career Center to proofread and make any needed adjustments.

6. Be honest about your accomplishments.

What’s more embarrassing than having a possible future employer find out that you weren't really the Regional Director at Chuck E. Cheese, but rather, you wore the mouse suit?! Employers really want to see that you have a consistent work history and a great work ethic! Be honest!

To sum it all up-- make it effortless for the reader! Read it over to yourself, as if you were the prospective employer (be critical), making sure it is easy for them in every way--format, readability and organization. A resume can make it obvious that you are organized and professional and would make a great addition to any company!

Do you have specific resume questions? Feel free to email me at Stephanie.Murrill@ahss.org for questions. I am happy to look over your resume and offer feedback!

To browse sample resume formats click here.

Quote of the Week

"The dictionary is the only place that success comes before work. Hard work is the price we must pay for success. I think you can accomplish anything if you're willing to pay the price." Vince Lombardi

In the Shoes of a Corporate Communications Specialist

I chose the next individual to interview, not only because he is an awesome person, but because he has a super fun and interesting job. Southern graduate, Anthony, has worked at AHS for the last 4 years as a Corporate Communications Specialist.

What is a Corporate Communications Specialist, you ask? Well, the title includes many things. Anthony's days are filled with new and exciting projects. A man of many hats, he describes his position as having four primary parts: project management, corporate branding management, video production and web development.

One of the best parts of his job is working with people! He also enjoys being a part of the production of His Touch--a video series that highlights stories of hope and compassion found in our hospitals. He loves being involved in capturing and sharing those stories with others.

Anthony was initially interested in working for AHS because of the opportunities in ministry that it provides. His health care career began in academy when he worked for a local Nursing home owned by AHS. While there, he saw first hand the work that was done and the people that AHS serves. Working at AHS in his current role, has allowed him to extend the ministry of Christ in a way that fits well with his expertise.

When not at work, Anthony can be found doing "outdoorsy" stuff! He loves hiking and other mountain activities. He also is an avid "themeparker" and urbanite, so Orlando is right up his alley!

His future aspirations include traveling the world, meeting new and interesting people, and then writing about his experiences to share with others. He is a self proclaimed night person and he has an affinity for pogs. He is always looking for someone who shares his passion and will play with him!

Anthony

Anthony and Kirsten