Name: ______Christopher Galvez_______ Period:____2__________

Dr. Vincent – Honors Economics December 10,

2009

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 Financial Planning Project

Background
You’ll come into contact with money almost every day for the rest of your life. When you’re
at work, you’re earning money; when you’re at the mall, you’re spending money. Used
poorly, money can be a source of anxiety and lead to financial problems. Used wisely,
money can be a tool to help you achieve your goals and dreams.
Task
You and others in the class will be working to complete three primary objectives:
1. Learn the financial planning process – what it is and what it can do for you.
2. Apply the processes through assignments that relate to your experiences with
money.
3. Take control of your finances, starting today!
Purpose
To improve your personal, decision-making skills as they relate to the use of your money.

Final Product
After this project, you will have successfully completed the following life application skills:

1. Career Search
2. Complete a Job Application
3. Write a Cover Letter and Resume
4. Purchase a Car
5. Rent an Apartment
6. Research Prices on Additional Consumer Goods
7. Research Various Methods of Savings
8. Compile a Budget

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 Stage 1 – Career Search

You’ve just graduated - congratulations! Now it's time to find a job and join the “real world”.
There’s an old saying that goes, “since you’re going to be working for the rest of your life you
might as well do something you really enjoy.” Also, “if you find something you enjoy doing;
you will never work a day in your life”. Ideally, you’d like to find work you love to do and that
pays you enough to live comfortably. You have the advantage of time and the opportunity to
choose. After high school you might go directly into a job, enter a training program, or go to
college. Your future is just beginning to unfold, and the choices about work are yours to
make.

Directions: Go to the websites listed below in order to complete the assigned work.

The Process:
Step 1. Complete the “Who Are You” – Personality Inventory (handout)
a) Identify and explain your personality type(s)
I am a realist. I am trustworthy, realistic, and hardworking. My accuracy and ability to
concentrate on the task at hand makes me a detail specialist. I have good innate judgment,
a matter-of-fact personality and practicality.
b) How accurately does this personality classification describe you? Explain.
I am hardworking and can concentrate on the task that is important to me at the
moment. I can be trustworthy and realistic at times, and I sometimes, choose the right
choice when it comes down to things. But one thing to add, I am also imaginative and
artistic. When I have spare time, I would rather enjoy my surroundings and take in the
beauty of this world.
Compete the “Career Cluster Interest Survey” (handout)
Step 2. Make and evaluate a list of careers that fit your personality

• Review the results of your “Who Are You” and “Career Cluster Interest
Survey” and make a list of at least five careers that match your personality.
1. Physician Assistant__________________

2. Physical Therapist Assistant___________

3. Registered Nurse____________________

4. Nursing Aide________________________

5. Visual Arts Designer__________________

6. Interior Designer____________________

7. Photo Journalist_____________________
8. __________________________________
9. __________________________________

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*You may also use the following career research website to complete the next step in this
stage.
http://www.careervoyages.gov/students-wheretostart.cfm

Step 3. Choose a career to investigate

• Now, collect information to prepare for the remainder of your personal finance
project.
• First, choose five jobs to research out of the ten that you recorded above.
• Then, use the following websites to research your careers:
o http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocoiab.htm#A
o http://www.acinet.org/acinet/select_occupation.asp?
stfips=12&next=wages1
• Finally, on a separate sheet of paper, you should report the following
information about each of the five career opportunities. This section must be
summarized in your own words – cutting and pasting is unacceptable and will
result in zero points!
1. Training or education required for the career
2. Nature of the work
3. Working Conditions
4. Job Opportunities
5. Expected salary range (entry level to five years)
6. Positive or negative aspects of the career

Career Research

Physical Therapist Assistant: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos167.htm

1) Physical therapist assistants must have an associate degree. They both

study academically and experience on-the-job training. In order to practice
physical therapist aide, a license is not required. However, additional
requirements are the certification of CPR and other first aid. A minimum
number of hours of clinical experience are also needed. They should be well
organized, detailed oriented, and caring. In order to become a therapist
assistant, it is sometimes required to first be a physical therapist aide. They
often advance to assistants after gaining experience and additional education.
Some physical therapist assistants can specialize in a clinical area.
2) Physical Therapist assistants help physical therapist to provide
treatment that improves patient mobility, relieves pain, and prevents or
lessens physical disabilities of patients. They perform a variety of tasks
provided they are supervised and directed by physical therapists. They usually
are responsible for keeping the treatment area clean and organized and for
preparing for each patient’s therapy. They also are involved in part of a
patient’s treatment such as exercises, massages, electrical stimulations,
paraffin baths, etc.
3) Physical therapist assistants and allies need a moderate degree of
strength because of the physical exertion required in assisting patients with
their treatment. They often need to kneel, stoop, or stand for a long period of

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time. The hours and days worked vary with the facility. Many outpatient
therapy offices and clinics have evening and weekend hours, to coincide with
patients’ personal schedules.
4) Physical therapist assistants and aides held about 107,000 jobs in
2006. Assistants held about 60,000 jobs. Both work with physical therapists in
a variety of settings. Employment is likely to grow faster than a average
consumer demand for physical therapy services. It is expected to grow 29%
over the 2006-16 decade. The long-term demand will rise as the individuals
with disabilities or limited function grows. Usually it would be the elderly
population. Physical therapists usually have to resort to using assistants to
reduce the cost physical therapy services. Overall, people interested in
becoming assistants are expected to be very good. The aides however, may
face keen competition from a large group of individuals. Physical therapist
assistants and aides with prior experience working in a physical therapy office
or other health care settings will have the best job opportunities.
5) The physical therapist assistants median of annual earning in the industries
employing the largest numbers of physical therapist assistants in may were:
a. Home health care services earn an average of $46,390
b. Nursing care facilities earn an average of $44,460
c. Offices of physical, occupational, and speech therapist and audiologists
earn an average of $40,780
d. General medical and surgical hospitals earn an average of $40,670
e. Offices of physicians earn an average of $39,290
6) The positives of this career are that the Physical Therapist assistant earns
pretty decent wages. In addition, all the physical movement and exertion keeps
them awake and strong. It is basically getting paid to exercise. The negatives of
this career is that some states often require additional education which requires
going back to school while trying to support yourself with another job for the
mean time.

Physical Therapist: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos080.htm

1) Physical therapists must have at least a master’s degree from an accredited

physical therapy program and a State license, requiring passing scores on national
and State examinations. Those who are willing to go further can also go on to get
their doctoral degree. In the future, the doctoral level might be the required entry-
level degree. Master’s degree programs last about 2 years, and a doctoral degree
programs last 3 years. Physical therapist education programs usually start the basic
science courses, and then introduce specialized courses, including biomechanics,
neuroanatomy, examination techniques, etc. Physical therapists should have strong
interpersonal skills and be compassionate. They should have a desire to help
patients.
2) Physical therapists provide services that help restore function, improve
mobility, relieve pain, and prevent or limit permanent physical disabilities of
patients suffering from injuries or disease. They examine patients’ medical
histories and then test and measure the patients’ strength, range of motion, balance
and coordination, posture, muscle performance, respiration, and motor function.
They also develop plans that will provide the best treatment strategy and anticipate

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its outcome. They also document the patient’s progress, conduct periodic
examinations, and modify treatments when necessary.
3) Work environment practice in hospitals, clinics, and private offices. These
jobs can be physically demanding because therapists often have to stoop, kneel,
crouch, lift, and stand for long period of times. They also have to move heavy
equipment and lift patients or help them turn, stand, or walk. Most full-time
therapists work 40-hour weeks, and some work evenings and weekends to fit their
patients’ schedules.
4) Physical therapists hold about 173,000 jobs, and the number of jobs is
greater than the number of practicing physical therapists. About 6 out of 10
worked in hospitals or in offices of physical therapists. Some are self-employed in
private practices. They also teach in academic institutions and conduct research.
Overall, the long-run demand for physical therapists should continue to rise.
5) The median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest
numbers of physical therapist were:
a. Home health care services earn an average of $70,920
b. Nursing Care facilities earn an average of $68,650
c. General medical and surgical hospitals earn an average of $66,630
d. Offices of physicians earn an average of $65,900
e. Offices of physical, occupational and speech therapists, and audiologists
earn an average of $65,150
6) The positives of this career are that the Physical Therapist assistant earns
pretty decent wages. In addition, all the physical movement and exertion keeps
them awake and strong. It is basically getting paid to exercise. The negatives of
this career is that some states often require additional education which requires
going back to school while trying to support yourself with another job for the
mean time.

Registered Nurses: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos083.htm

1) Registered nurses require 3 educational paths to becoming a registered

nurse is a bachelor’s of science degree in nursing (BSN), an associate degree in
nursing (ADN), and a diploma. The BSN colleges are offered by colleges and
universities, and usually take about 4 years to complete. AND programs, offered
by community and junior colleges, take about 2-3 years to complete. Diploma
program are administered in hospitals and last about 3 years. Advanced practice
nursing specialties require a least a master’s degree. All nursing education
programs include classroom instruction and supervised clinical experience in
hospitals and other health care facilities. In all States and U.S. territories, students
must graduate from an approved nursing program and pass a national licensing
examination, known as the NCLEX – RN, in order to obtain a nursing license.
2) Regardless of specialty or work setting, Registered nurses treat patients,
educate patients and the public about various medical conditions, and provide
advice and emotional support to patients’ family members. They also record
patients’ medical histories and symptoms help perform diagnostic tests and
analyze, and help with patient follow-up and rehabilitation. They also teach
patients and their families how to manage their illness or injury such as diets,

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nutrition, and exercise programs. RNs have to establish a plan of care or contribute
to an existing plan. Along with these things, they can go further and specialize in a
work setting or type of treatment.
3) Most RNs work in well-lighted, comfortable health care facilities. They
may spend a large amount of time walking, bending, stretching, and standing.
Some nurses may work nights, weekends, and holidays since patients need
constant care. However, nurses are exposed to infectious diseases and with toxic,
harmful, or potentially hazardous compounds, solutions, and medications. They
are also prone to back injury when moving patients, shocks from electrical
equipment, etc. They may also suffer from emotional strain from caring for
patients suffering unrelieved intense pain, close personal contact with patients’
families, and need to make critical decisions, etc.
4) Since the largest health care occupation, registered nurses held about 2.5
million jobs in 2006. Overall job opportunities for RNs are expected to be
excellent, but may vary by employment and geographic setting. Since the
occupation is very large, many new jobs will result. In addition, hundreds of
thousands of job openings will result from the need to replace experienced nurses
who leave the occupation. In closing, the overall job opportunities are expected to
be excellent for registered nurses.
5) The median earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of
registered nurses were:
a. Employment services earn an average of $64,260
b. General medical and surgical hospitals earn an average of $58,550
c. Home health care services earn an average of $54,190
d. Offices of physicians earn an average of $53,800
e. Nursing care facilities earn an average of $52,490
6) Since the job opportunity for RNs is high, and they get paid above average
salaries, it makes up for the fact that some work nights and weekends. But the
downside is the level of emotional stress, and high risk of disease.

Interior Designers: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos293.htm

1) Postsecondary education, especially a bachelor’s degree, is recommended

for entry-level positions in interior design. Two-year and 3-year programs also are
available, and some States license interior designers. Training programs are
available from professional design schools or from colleges and universities and
usually take 2-4 years to complete. Graduates of 2-year to 3-year programs are
awarded certificates or associate degrees in interior design and normally qualify as
assistants to interior designers upon graduation. With a bachelor’s degree, they can
qualify for a formal design apprenticeship program. Applicants to National
Association of Schools of Arts and Design may be required to submit sketches and
other examples of their artistic ability.
2) The interior designers main concerns are with how different colors,
textures, furniture, lighting, and space work together to meet the needs of a
building’s occupants. They plan interior spaces of almost every type of building.
Good design can boost office productivity, increase sales, attract a more affluent
clientele, and etc. Interior designers once focused on decorating, but lately, an

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increasing number of designers are becoming involved in architectural detailing.
They must be able to read blueprints, understand building and fire codes, and
know how to make space accessible to people who are disabled. They usually
work together with architects, electricians, and building contractors to ensure that
designs are safe and meet construction requirements. The designer must formulate
a design plan, then estimate the cost. The designer, when the design concept is
chosen, must begin specifying the materials. Finally, the designer estimates the
time it will take for the project to be completed, and then coordinates with the
contractor work schedules.
3) The working conditions and places of employment may vary. Designers
employed by large corporations or design firms may work regular hjours in well-
lughted and comfortable settings. Some in smaller design consulting firm or those
who freelance may have to adjust their workday to suit their clients’ schedules and
deadlines. They might have to work under levels of stress to meet deadlines, stay
on budget, and please clients. Some are also under pressure to find new clients and
maintain a steady income. Designers may work in their own offices or studios or
in clients’ homes or offices.
4) The employment of interior designers is expected to be faster than average,
but keen competition for jobs is expected. Economic expansion, growing
homeowner wealth, and an increasing interest in interior design will increase
demand for designers. Positions will most likely be given to those who are more
talented therefore keeping the competition very high because many individuals are
indeed talented.
5) The median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest
numbers of interior designers were:
a. Architectural, engineering, and related services earn an average of $46,750
b. Architectural services earn an average of $46,750
c. Specialized design services earn an average of $43,250
d. Furniture stores earn an average of $38,980
e. Building material and supplies dealers earn an average of $36,650
6) Being an interior designer lets people express their creativity and
uniqueness. It lets them be able to create whatever may be in their head, but even
though it may seem limitless, it is actually limited. It limited in the fact that they
have a deadline in which to design a plan, please customers instead of themselves,
and costs it will take to achieve it.

Photographer (Photojournalist): http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos264.htm

1) Employers usually seek applicants with a “good eye”, magination, and

creativity, as well as a good technical understanding of photography.
Photojournalists need a college degree. The entry-level required is a colleged
degree in photography or in a field related to the industry in which the
photographer seeks employment. Basic courses in photography cover equipment,
processes, and techniques. Along with that, is learning good business skills. Art
schools usually offer useful training in photographic design and composition.
Some may start as assistants and work there way up.

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 2) Photographers produce and preserve images that paint a picture, tell a
story, or record an event. They need technical expertise, creativity, and the
appropriate professional equipment in order to create commercial quality
photographs. Some photographers specialize in areas such as portrait, commercial
and industrial, and etc. Most spend only a small portion on their work schedule
actually taking photographs. Their most common activities are editing images on
the computer or looking for new business.
3) Photographers need good eyesight, artistic ability, and good hand-eye
coordination. They should be patient, accurate, and detail-oriented and should be
able to work well with others. Their working conditions vary considerably. Some
work a usual workday, or often work long, irregular hours and must be available
to work on short notice. Many work part time or on variable schedules. Some
work in uncomfortable or even dangerous surroundings, or wait long hours in
various weather conditions.
4) Employment of photographers is expected to grow about as fast as average
for all occupations. The competition is high for job openings because the work is
attractive to many people. The job growth will go hand-in-hand with the use of
digital photography and the falling price of digital equipment. Photography
usually has tough competition due to the fact of each person’s artistic ability.
5) Median annual earnings of salaried photographers were $36,170. The
middle 50%earned about $18,680-$38,730. The lowest 10%earned less than
$15,540, and the highest 10% earned more than $56,640. Photographers are
successful enough to support themselves solely through their art.
6) Although this career allows people to express themselves and their artistic
ability, the job may require them to be exposed to extreme or bad weather
conditions while being required to rush through their art to finish the deadline.

• Do your best to narrow your prospective careers down to one for the
remainder of this project. Of course, as you research your career you may find that
you want to change it. Regardless of your decision, you should focus on one career.
o List it here: _____Registered Nurse (RN)__________________

Step 4. Find a Job!

• By now you should know what career path you are going to pursue.
Now it is time to hunt for a job!
• First, use the following websites to gain specific employer information.
o www.monster.com
o http://careers.yahoo.com/
o www.hotjobs.com
o http://www.quintcareers.com/top_10_sites.html
• Next, find ten companies that you might want to work for, and their
information on the following Job Search Log.

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 Job Search Log

COMPANY ORGANIZATION PHONE # CONTACT TYPE OF COMMENTS

ADDRESS PERSON CONTACT
Fort 800- Matt phone Units of need:
1. Core Myers, FL 995- Bergero ICU
Medical 33900 2673 n Emergency Room
Group ext Oncology
1355 Full time employee. CPR and
ACLS certifications
San N/A Karina email Karina.Caravia@CyberCoders.co
2.N/A Francisco, Caravia m
CA; Daly RN position w/ CPR certification
City, CA
Sand 800- N/A phone Full time employee. RN license.
3.Kindred Diego, CA, 545- Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, an
Healthcare 92101 0749 Association degree, or a Nursing
diploma. CPR certification
North 866- N/A phone Licensed RN. Bilingual in Spanish
4.VITAS Miami 418- and English. Must be
Innovative Beach, FL 4827 Experienced (Non-manager) at
Hospice Care 33169 least a CPR certification

Victoriavill N/A N/A Full or part time, Per diem or

5.Desert e, CA employee. Career level is
Valley 92395 experienced (Non-manager).
Hospital BCLS upon hire.

Port Saint 1-866- N/A phone Manager (Manager/Supervisor of

6.Gentiva Lucie, FL GENTIV Staff). Diploma, Associate or
34952 A Bachelor degree.
Oakland, 888- N/A phone Full Time. Unit: PICU. Education
7.FASTAFF CA 296- level is an Associate degree.
6412 $60(straight)-$90(overtime) per
hour.
Jacksonvill N/A Quentin email Email:
8.Cyber e, FL; Olwell Quentin.Olwell@CyberCoder.com
Scientific Orange Education: Bachelor of science.
Park, FL Units: Critical Care and NICU.
BLS an ACLS certified. $65,000-
$100,000. Full-time employee.
Long N/A Michelle email
Email:
9.Molina Beach, CA Kozman
mailto:Michelle.kozman@molinahealthca
Healthcare 90802 re.com
Full time or Employee. Career level: non-
manager) 4 day -10 hour shifts. 3pm –
1am.

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 Stockton, N/A Karina email Karina.Caravia@CyberCoders.co
10.CyberCod CA Caravia m
ers Education: Bachelor of Science.
Full time employee.

Step 5. Obtain the Job

• Acquiring the job is the most important part in the search for your career.
• You will need to complete the following steps to finish the requirements for
stage one:
1. Job Application
2. Cover Letter
3. Resume
4. Mock Interview
5. Follow Up Letter

a) Filling out a job application

• Choose one of the companies from the previous job search log.
• Fill out an application by downloading one from the company’s website, or
using the generic application found on the next page of this project.

b) Writing a cover letter

a) First, briefly explain the necessity of a cover letter by indicating the
purpose of each paragraph on the following website:
http://www.tbrnet.com/letters/tips.php
1. To tell why you are writing. You want to get the employer’s
attention and arouse their interest. Display your knowledge of the
company you are writing to.
_______________________________________________
2. To briefly describe your academic qualifications. Identify the job
you are interested in or the general area if there is more than one
job you are interested in.
_____________________________________________
3. In this paragraph, you want to relate your education and
qualifications for the position you are applying for. Refer to the
points in your resume and expand on them. If you do no have a
great deal of work experience, mention extracurricular activities
that would relate to the position.__
4. To ask the employer for an interview appointment, and suggest
the best time for you to be reached.
5. To thank the prospective employer for their time and
consideration.
b) Then, summarize cover letter tips found on the same web page.
1. The cover letter should be personalized for every job you apply
for.
2. Use “Sincerely” as your closing.
3. The paper should match the paper you used for you’re your
resume.
4. Make sure that you are addressing the person correctly.
5. The Paper Direct has paper that has business cards embedded in
the lower corner. Most cover letter are not kept, but they can
punch out your business card and keep that.

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 c) Finally, go to http://tbrnet.com/letters/generator/newspaper.php3 and input
the appropriate information to complete your cover letter. Be sure to save
and print your cover letter.
Quentin Owell

Jacksonville, FL

Dear Mr. Owell:

I noticed your advertisement for a Registered Nurse in the edition of

Scientific Search. I am very interested in pursuing this opportunity and
have enclosed my resume for your review.

My resume is lengthy enough, so I will not overburden you with my

credentials. All I can say is that I can attribute all of my success to just one
thing — I am extremely dedicated to my profession. I have both the
educational and practical experience necessary to do the job!

If you are seeking a candidate with my qualifications, I would welcome a

personal interview. I can be contacted at 954-438-8438, 7am-2pm, or
through e-mail at: orcgalvez@bellsouth.net. Thank you for your time and
consideration.

Sincerely,

Christopher Galvez

Enclosure

c) Completing a Resume
• Use the website http://www.jobweb.com/resumes_interviews.aspx?id=896 to
identify the importance of a resume, and write a summary for all of the
following areas:
1. What is a resume?
It is a brief document that highlights a persons experience,
qualifications, and skills
2. How to prepare an effective resume
Pay attention to detail. Do the basics such as proofreading.
Construct an effective resume by organizing your information and
keeping descriptions clear. Customize their response by including
the name of the company and the position they are hiring for. Make
it easy for the hiring manager by using your name and the word
“resume” in your e-mail header. Focus on what you bring to the
employer, not what you want from the job. And lastly, be
professional.
3. Action Words (List 10 that you feel are useful)
1) Achieved__________________6)_Assisted___________________
2) Established _______________ 7) Demonstrated ______________
3) Formed__________________ 8) Motivated _________________
4) Improved_________________ 9) Discovered ________________

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 5) Managed_________________10) Generated ________________
4. What employers want
Follow directions. Be careful to enter the correct Be careful to enter
the correct data in the correct field. Ask for advice on completing
the application from a company recruiter or an alumnus who may
work at the company. Tailor your application information to the
position. Use key words when they’re looking for people to fill
specific positions. Make sure your resume can hold its own in a very
simple format.
*List the ten things that Employers look for:
1) Use key words, buzz words, and industry verbiage.
2) Use quotes from letters of recommendation in your resume or cover letter.
3) Include a strong objective.
4) Complete all fields.
5) Tailor your application information to the position.
6) If the company offers an optional assessment test online, take it.
7) Follow up your electronic application with a personal e-mail to the recruiter.
8) You should include remarks in the “comments” section that demonstrate that you
have researched the company and industry.
9) Keep your resume format simple is good advice regardless of whether or not you’re
applying online.
10) If possible, spell check and grammar check your application before submitting it.

• Next, go to the website http://hj.resumes.yahoo.com/?clink=tools

and insert the appropriate information in order to complete your resume. Be sure
to save and print your resume.
• You can utilize the following websites to view sample resumes:
o http://www.bestsampleresume.com/
o http://www.freeresumesamples.org/
Christopher G. Galvez
th
SW. 18 St.  Miramar, FL 33029  Phone: (954)438-8438  Fax:  E-Mail:
xdrumma_boyx@hotmail.com
Objective
I am a graduate of nursing school and have passed my N-CLEX RN. I am looking for a job with the position of a Registered Nurse.
Experience
August 2004 - August 2010
• I have experience volunteering at hospitals, and learning in my Nursing School.
• I have been volunteering since high school
• I have shadowed nurses and doctors during my college career.1

Education
August 2004 – August 2010

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I graduated from the University of Florida. I’ve had a 3.95 and higher throughout my high school and college life. I earned my Bachelors
degree for Nursing and Associate degree of Nursing. I recently passed my NCLEX-RN exam with flying colors. I also majored in Biology
and Chemistry.
Skills
Not only do excel at just sciences and health related subjects, but I am also an all-around kind of person. I played trumpet for the
University of Florida, and played drums as an interest. I became section leader for the trumpet section. I also am talented in the arts such
as drawing and photography.

d) Preparing for an Interview

• Interviewing can be one of the most angst-ridden times during the search for
your ideal job. However, remember the famous quote, “Preparation and
organization, breeds confidence!” Prepare and organize yourself by
completing the following elements of Stage 1.
• Go to the website following website to complete the following section:
http://www.jobweb.com/interviews.aspx?id=2001

• List the 10 Steps to a Successful Interview

1) Learn as much as you can about the company beforehand.
2) Do practice interviews with a career counselor, friends, and family
members
3) Think about how your experience in work, classes, and activities can
relate to the job you’re seeking.
4) Allow plenty of time to get to the interview and, if possible, visit the site
in advance and time how long it takes to get there.
5) Plan your interview attire n advance and make sure your clothing is
pressed, your shoes are shined, and your hair and nails are well
groomed.
6) Bring extra copies of your resume ad a list of references.
7) Speak slowly and clearly and don’t be afraid to pause for a moment to
collect your thoughts.
8) Be honest. Don’t try to cover up mistakes. Instead, focus on how you
learned from them.
9) Be assertive.
10) Ask the interviewer for a business card and send a thank-you not or e-
mail as soon as possible.
• List the important points from the page “Appropriate Attire is a Must”.
You need to dress good because people will draw conclusions from your physical
appearance.

• List the ten important “Favorite Questions and Answers”.

http://www.jobweb.com/Interview/help.aspx?id=282
1) What do you see yourself doing five years from now?
a. I want to hear something to retail.
2) How do you make yourself indispensable to a company?
a. We are looking for both technical and interpersonal competence.
3) What’s your greatest strength?
a. Don’t just talk about strength – relate it to the position.
4) What’s your greatest weakness?

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 a. Say something along the lines of, “I have difficulty with this thing, and these
are the strategies I use to get around it.”
5) Tell me about a time when your course load was heavy. How did you complete all
your work?
a. “We are looking for a plan-ahead kind of individual, not someone who just flies
by the seat of his pants.”
6) Tell me about a time when you had to accomplish a task with someone who was
particularly difficult to get along with.
a. I want to hear something that shows the candidate has the ability to be
sensitive to the needs of others but can still influence them.
7) How do you accept direction and, at the same time, maintain a critical stance
regarding your ideas and values?
a. Internship or co-op experience can give students the experience to answer
that question.
8) Tell me how you handled an ethical dilemma.
a. Students who can’t offer a situation that they handled correctly the first time
can explain how the they learned from making mistakes.
9) What are some examples of activities and surroundings that motivate you?
a. “Most of our technical disciplines are teamwork professions and require
getting along with and motivating other people.”
10) Tell me about a time when you had to resolve a problem with no rules or guidelines in
place.
a. “I’m looking for a sense of urgency in initiating action.”

• List the ten interview pitfalls:

http://www.quintcareers.com/interview_mistakes.html
1) Poor handshake
2) Talking too much
3) Talking negatively about current or past employers/managers
4) Showing up to late or too early
5) Treating the receptionist rudely
6) Asking about benefits, vacation time, or salary
7) Not preparing for the interview
8) Verbal ticks
9) Not enough/too much eye contact.
10) Failure to match communication styles
e) Writing a Follow-Up-Letter/Thank You Letter

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• Briefly explain the necessity of a follow-up-letter by indicating the purpose of
each paragraph on the following website:
http://www.tbrnet.com/letters/index.php :

1. Thank the interviewer for their time. Mention date and

time of day. Tell the interviewer how much you enjoyed meeting
with them.
2. Tell them that you are
very interested in the company, and working for them, and
express enthusiasm for the company and job.
3. A final thank you.
Establish the next point of contact.
b) Then, summarize the follow-up-letter tips found on
http://www.tbrnet.com/letters/index.php :

1. Thank you letters

should be sent out within 2 days of the interview.
2. A resume should be
included with the thank you letter.
3. If you forget to mention
a pontin your interview this is the perfect place to bring it up.
4. Mention that you are
looking forward to hearing the decision of the employer.

• Next, complete the process by typing up a follow-up-letter. Use the

following website for an example and format:
http://jobsearch.about.com/od/thankyouletters/a/samplethankyou.htm
• Be sure to save and print your follow-up-letter.
Dear Mr. Owell,
I would like to thank you for your time on December 10, 2010 at 12:15
pm. I have enjoyed meeting with you. The interview was enjoyable, and it
opened my eyes to different areas I have not seen before.

I am highly interested in what the hospital has to offer. I cannot wait to

work within those walls, helping people recover. This hospital is unique in
various ways, and I cannot comprehend working at another place.

In regard, I would like to thank you once again, and I would like to meet
up again, and perhaps do another interview. I would like for you to keep

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 me in touch with anything that goes on in Cyber Scientific. Please call me
at (954)438-8438.

Sincerely,

Christopher Galvez

Stage 2 –Budgeting

Wow, your head is probably spinning with all the work it has taken to get your first job. Now
you get the coveted responsibility of figuring out how to use your money. Have you ever
thought about where your money goes? What do you do with it? Do you spend it on food
and clothes, or do you save most of your money for the ultimate trip to Europe? Directly or
indirectly, you’ve probably already spent some money today. If you came to school by car or
bus, money was spent to pay for gas. If you buy a snack during the day or buy your lunch in
the cafeteria, you’re going to be spending money. That’s what this stage is about,
understanding where your money goes and figuring out how to make the most of it.

Directions: Go to the websites listed below in order to complete the assigned work.
The Process:
Step 1. Defining a Budget
1. Use the following website:
http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/SavingandDebt/LearnToBudget/Your
5MinuteGuideToBudgeting.aspx to answer the following questions:
a. What is a budget and why do I need one?
It’s an avenue to know where your money goes and help you reach
your financial goals. You need one because you “simply can’t spend
more than you make, at least not for long.”
List and describe the three elements discussed under “Building the
Budget Habit” as described on the following website:
b. Write it down. If you don’t, you probably won’t stick to it.
c. Get into the habit of thinking ahead. If you know your
situation is going to change, plan for it and try to pay cash.
d. Remember, budgeting is the means, not the end. Keep spending
“mistakes” in perspective.

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Step 2. Research Fixed and Variable Expenses

• First, define the following terms at www.dictionary.com

o Net Income – The excess of revenues and gains of a business over
expenses and losses during a given period of time.
o Fixed Expenses – is a cost that does not change from period to
period or that changes only very slightly.
o Variable Expenses – change depending on your consumption of a
go6od or service. It is a cost that changes significantly from period
to period.
• Next, determine approximately how much money you would net per month
at the job you selected in Stage 1 (entry level wages).
o Net Income Per Month: $4,380.17
• Finally, determine how much each item listed on your budget will cost you
per month by searching the following websites:
a) Rent

• Use the following websites: www.rent.com, www.apartments.com,

www.apartmentguide.com to help you find an area to live in that will be
both desirable and cost efficient. Fill in the following information:
o Address – 488 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802
o Bed/Bath – 2 bedrooms/2.5 baths
o Pets - negotiable
o Property Features – Long Beach waterfront (perfect ocean views),
custom finishes, and spacious floor plans. Includes public swimming
pools, gym, garage, high speed internet, air conditioning, storage
center
o Comments – different models result in different prices.
o Monthly Cost - $2100/12=$320.83 per month
o http://www.apartments.com/summary.aspx?

page=summary&property=117058.3&stype=zip&prvpg=1067&zip=90802&prvpg=1067&rad=5&prvpg=1067&r
ent_minimum=0&prvpg=1067&rent_maximum=99999&prvpg=1067&onebdrm=1&prvpg=1067&am2=0&prvpg
=1067&am22=0&prvpg=1067&am24=0&prvpg=1067&am19=0&prvpg=1067&am23=0&prvpg=1067&qsearcht
ype=1&prvpg=1067&srt1=0.71&prvpg=1067&srt2=0.98&prvpg=1067&srt3=0.95&prvpg=1067&pdriveit=0&pd
rivefrm=1#MenuItem

o
b) Electricity, Water, and Telephone
• Find out from your parent(s)/guardian the average monthly cost for each of
the following fixed prices:
o Electricity - $150
o Water - $70
o Telephone - $100
o Cable TV - included
o Gasoline - $200

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 o Medical/Dental Care - $250
c) Car Payments

• Use the following websites to buy a new/used car: www.edmunds.com,

www.autotrader.com, www.autoweb.com, http://carpoint.msn.com/. For
the sake of the project you are awarded $3000.00 as a down payment on
any new/used car. Use the following website to determine monthly
payments: http://autos.yahoo.com/finance/calcloanlease.html?cf=autoloan.

• Fill in the following information to complete this step:

o Make – Honda Accord

o Model – 2010 Honda Accord 2.4 EX-L (M5) Coupe
o Retail Price - $23,642
o Insurance – comprehensive and collision - $430.16
o Total estimated Monthly Payment - $305
• Use the following website to determine the monthly cost of car insurance.
http://autos.yahoo.com/insurance.html?refsrc=
o Estimated Monthly Rate - $300
d) Health Insurance – research the average price for basic health insurance
coverage and include the monthly fees in your final budget. http://www.money-
zine.com/Calculators/Insurance-Calculators/Health-Care-Insurance-Cost-Calculator/

e) Food

• Go shopping for food at http://www.publix.com/servlet/MainController?

action=prepareGroceryList to compile an imaginary shopping list, which
you will then multiply by four to determine an estimated monthly cost for
food. Fill in the following information to complete this step:
o Grocery List – Include Item and Price

1.Milk $3.50 11.Oreos $2.75

2.Orange Juice $3.50
3.Cereal $4.75
4.Bread $200
5. American Cheese $3.75
6.Doritos spicy/sweet chips $2.50
7 Pasta $1.50
8.Marinara Sauce $3.00
9.Ground Beef $3.00
10.Tyson’s chicken strips $7.50
12.Rice $2.00
13. Chicken Breast $8.00
14. Coca Cola products x2 $4.00
15. Ice cream $3.00
16. Hotpockets $4.50
17. Sunsilk shampoo $2.00
18.Sunsilk conditioner $2.00
19.Toothpaste $2.50
20. Soap $4.00

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 o Estimated weekly cost x 4 = $279
Step 3 – Figuring Your Budget
• Hopefully you have survived the rigors of selecting a job and researching
different methods of spending. Now you will need to input information into
your Personal Finance Budget Spreadsheet, which was provided by your
instructor.
• At this point in the project, you have learned how much it is going to cost
to live. Now, you must “play with the numbers” to make it work.
• Complete the following steps in order to complete this project:
1. Locate all of the calculations that were determined throughout the
project.
2. Determine your total gain/loss for the month on the budget
spreadsheet.
3. If necessary, adjust the figures to break even, or to create a surplus.
(You can use comparative figures in the month column next to your
original figure.)
Step 4 - Research Savings
• The United State’s financial system offers many different opportunities to
“make your money work for you”. You will need to identify basic
information about saving throughout this section.
• For the sake of this project you are awarded $5000.00 for an initial
investment.
• You will be researching the following investment possibilities in order to
complete Stage 2
1. Checking Account
2. Savings Account
3. Money Market
4. Certificate of Deposit (CD)
5. Individual Retirement Account (IRA)

1. Checking Account - Go to the following website in order to answer questions about

Checking Accounts: https://www.bankofamerica.com/index.jsp
• List the three types of checking accounts offered at Bank of America.
a. My access checking account
b. Campus Edge checking account
c. Advantage with Tiered Interest Checking Account
• How much do each cost monthly?
a. $0
b. $0
c. $25

• Which of the previous offers interest on their account? Advantage with

Tiered Checking Account
• List the Balance Tiers and each level’s Annual Percentage Yield

Balance Tiers APY

Less than $10,000 0.05%

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$10,000-$99,999 0.25%

$99,999 and over 0.40%

• Indicate the monthly cost of your checking account $ 0

2. Savings Account - Go to the following website in order to answer questions about Saving
Accounts:
http://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/checksave/index.cfm?
template=save_overview&context=&statecheck=FL&cd_bag=&sa_bag=&ch_bag=
• Briefly describe Bank of America’s Savings Program
Bank of America’s savings program offer many things like interest, no monthly
fee if you can keep a minimum balance in your savings account. This
motivates other people to save their money.

• How much money does it take to start a savings account? $25

• What balance must you maintain in order to avoid monthly fees? $300
• What is the APR for the Statement Savings program 0.10%
• How much money are you going to allocate towards your savings from
your initial $5000.00?
$500
• How much money are you going to deposit into your savings from your net
income monthly?
$0
• Indicate the monthly cost of your savings account $2.08

3. Money Market Account - Go to the following website in order to answer questions

about Money Market Funds: http://momo.essortment.com/whatismoneyma_rvma.htm

• Explain the advantages of a money market account

___It’s like a savings account but it pays a higher interest rate.
• List and explain the three different types of money market accounts:
a. Basic money market account, which has a designated minimum opening
deposit and balance.
b. Tiered money market account, which requires larger minimums but pays a
higher interest rate.
c.package deal in which you have a savings account, a certificate of deposit
and a money market account with the same bank. This one may waiver on the
minimum deposit, and pay a higher interest rate
• Go to the following website to answer additional questions about Money
Market Accounts:
http://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/checksave/index.cfm?
template=save_selectmoneymarket

• How much money does it take to start a money market account? $25
• What balance must you maintain in order to avoid monthly fees? $5,000

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 • List the Balance Tiers and each level’s Annual Percentage Yield
Balance Tiers APY

Less than $5,000 0.15%

$5,000-$9,999 0.15%

$10,000-$24,999 0.65%

• How much money are you going to allocate towards your money market
account from your initial $5000.00?
$0
• How much money are you going to deposit into your money market
account monthly from your net income?
$0
• Indicate the monthly cost of your money market account $0

4. Certificate of Deposit (CD) - Go to the following website in order to answer questions

about Certificates of Deposit: http://www.sec.gov/investor/pubs/certific.htm
a. What is a Certificate of Deposit?
It is a type of deposit made with a bank or institution that offers a higher rate than other
accounts, but you cant take any out of the account for at least 6 months.

b. Why are CD’s tiered (ranked)

Some CDs are have longer periods of time than others. The more you invest in
the CD’s investment period, the more interest you can earn.
c. What typically happens when you withdrawal early? You may have an early
withdrawal penalty, or forfeit a portion of the interest you earned.

d. Why is a CD considered a safe investment?

They are safe because they are insured up to $250,000, while other are
insured up to $100,000 or so.

• Go to the following website to answer an additional question about CDs:

http://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/checksave/index.cfm?
template=cd_27&context=tabpage_Rates_Fees
• How much money does it take to open a traditional CD? What is the
exception?
$1,000

• List the Balance Tiers and each level’s Annual Percentage Yield
Term/Months APY
6-11 months 0.40
12-17 months 0.85

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18-23 months 0.95
24-35 months 1.50
36-47 months 1.86

• How much money are you going to allocate towards your money market
account from your initial $5000.00? $4000
• Indicate the monthly cost of your certificate of deposit
$ 283 per month on 12months

5. Individual Retirement Account (IRA) – follow the following website in order to answer
questions about mutual funds: http://www.moneyinstructor.com/art/mutualfundunders.asp
a. What is an IRA? It is a retirement plan that allows you to contribute a
limited yearly sum toward your retirement; taxes on the interest earned in the
account are deferred.

b. How much do present tax laws allow you to deposit into an IRA per year?
$4,000______________

c. How does an IRA change for married couples? If you or your spouse files
taxes separately, then the IRA can be in your spouse’s name to avoid some of
the restrictions.

d. Explain how the tax laws regarding deposits will change over the next five
years.
The problem is that with a growing number of retired people that work, will
only be able to come up with about 75% of what will be needed to support
themselves. On top of that, companies are rapidly doing away with pension
plans, therefore making tax laws regarding deposits taken more seriously.

e. Explain how an individual makes withdrawals on an IRA. If you are over 50,
you are allowed to make larger, “catch up” payments to your IRA each year. If
you withdraw money before 59 ½, you will not only be taxed at your current
tax rate, but also be penalized for another 10%.

f. What is the difference between a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA? The Roth
IRA is funded by post tax dollars, and you will not get a tax deduction in the
year you make the contribution, but the account may never be taxed again.
The same tax regulations apply to a traditional IRA since they are with pre-tax,
or tax deductible dollars.

• How much money are you going to allocate towards your IRA account from
your initial $5000.00? $500
• How much money are you going to deposit into your IRA from your net
income monthly?
$100

*Next, estimate how much money you will allocate towards the various methods of savings.
You should also project how much money you will make on each of the investments in 10,

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 20, and 30 year time periods. Base these figures on your original APY, which should give you
an indication of where you want to spend your money.

Initial Investment Monthly

Financial Assets APY 10 20 30
(out of $5000) Investment

1. Checking 0 0
15013.0
2. Savings 500 0 .05 502.51 1005.53
8
3. Money Market 0 0
4. Certificate of 4353.3 14247.4
4000 0 .40 9091.11
Deposit 0 0
5. Individual
500 100 .75 538.79 1119.38 1745.02
Retirement Account

Step 6 – Figuring Your Budget

• Hopefully you have survived the rigors of selecting a job and researching
different methods of spending. Now you will need to input information into
your Personal Finance Budget Spreadsheet, which was provided by your
instructor.
• At this point in the project, you have learned how much it is going to cost
to live. Now, you must “play with the numbers” to make it work.
• Complete the following steps in order to complete this project:
4. Locate all of the calculations that were determined throughout the
project.
5. Open your Personal Finance Budget Spreadsheet and input the data
into the Budget program for one month.
6. Determine your total gain/loss for the month.
7. If necessary, adjust the figures to break even, or to create a surplus.
(You can use comparative figures in the month column next to your
original figure.)
8. Be sure to Save and Print your Personal Finance Budget Spreadsheet.

NETBUDGET
INCOMESPREADSHEET Monthly
Monthly Income $4,380.17

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FIXED EXPENSES
Rent $2100
Electricity $150.00
Water $70
Telephone (Home & Cell) $100
Car Loan Payment $430
Health/Dental Insurance $250
Car Insurance $300
Gasoline $200
Cable T.V. included
Investments (Stocks, IRA, etc.) $100
Food $279

SUBTOTAL: $3979 -
VARIABLE EXPENSES
Personal Savings $100
Entertainment $50
Clothing $50
Miscellaneous Personal Care $50
SUBTOTAL: $ 350 -
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
$ 4380.17
Total Income -
Total Expense $ 4379 -
GAIN/LOSS: $ 51.17 -

Stage 3 –Reflection

Write a formal summary (typed, double spaced, 10 or 12 point font) reflecting on the
concepts that you learning in doing this project. Consider the following questions:
• What is the most important reason for having a financial plan?
• Describe what you consider may be your greatest obstacle in putting the plan into
action?
• What is your greatest asset in making the plan a success?
• What is the most important lesson you learned in creating you financial plan?
• How will you use this information in the future?
• Share your final project with your parent/guardian. Include their comments/ideas.
• What grade would you give this project and why?

Congratulations, you have successfully completed life!!!

You are a real person!!!

PROJECT CHECKLIST:

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Print out this page and check off each item when completed. Include this page with your
project.

CAREER SEARCH: ______ Career Interests Inventory

20 points ______ List and evaluate careers that fit your personality
______ Occupation – Research 5 jobs
______ Find a Job! Identify at least 10 Employment Opportunities

COVER LETTER ______ Research and create cover letter

& RESUME: ______ Complete sample application
20 points ______ Research and create resume
______ Interview Research
______ Research and create follow-up letter

BUDGETING: ______ Budget research

20 points ______ Fixed and Variable Expenses

HOUSING ______ Type of Housing: Apartment or House (Get Pictures)

______ Rent/Mortgage (How Much $ per Month?)
______ City and State
______ Community information (population, things to do)
______ Pictures/maps of the city
______ Utilities (How Much $ per Month?)
______ Furnishings (How Much $ - What will you need?)
AUTO ______ Make, model, insurance, monthly payment, service, gas,
etc.

PERSONAL EXPENSES (not all are required and you may have some
additions):
______ Groceries ______ Internet Service
______ Dental ______ Cell phone
_______Clothing ______ Personal Care
______ Internet Service ______ Entertainment

SAVINGS _______ Checking

& INVESTMENTS: _______ Savings
20 points _______ Retirement

FINANCE BUDGET SPREADSHEET:

10 points _______ Balanced and complete spreadsheet

REFLECTION: ______ One page reflective essay emphasizing what you learned.
10 points

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