This page contains content from the 2008–09 academic year. For current information, visit the Harvard Extension School website at www.extension.harvard.edu.
Workshop Descriptions
Academic
Ensuring Academic Success (teleconference)
This teleconference workshop will introduce participants to strategies to improve time-management and academic study skills (reading skills, preparing for and taking exams). Procrastination issues and anxiety management difficulties will be addressed. No need to leave your home or office for this workshop; you simply call in to the 1-800 number five minutes before the start time (noon). Specific details will be sent to all students registered in the workshop. See schedule.
Fatal Sentence Flaws: Punctuation and Grammar Mistakes
Those who read what we write often form first impressions of us according to our use of grammar and punctuation: write a sentence fragment, misuse an adverb, or wield your apostrophes and commas incorrectly, and many readers might even question your level of formal education. Yet the rules for writing correct sentences can seem mysterious and endless. In this workshop, which promises a friendly and nonjudgmental environment for students, we’ll gain some familiarity with the basics of grammar and punctuation, including how to spot and repair sentence fragments, run-ons, misuses of who and whom, incorrect pronoun use, subject and verb disagreement, double negatives, unnecessary and missing commas, and incorrect uses of the apostrophe, semicolon, and colon. To see some practical applications of the rules, we’ll undertake a series of short writing exercises. See schedule.
Getting the Main Point of Expository Texts
This workshop will help students to discern the main point of a piece of expository writing. Students will learn how to recognize an implicit structure in expository text and how to use their knowledge of that structure to read more actively, more strategically, and more effectively. See schedule.
Goal Setting and Academic Success (teleconference)
The latest research in positive psychology has shown that people who have goals are happier and more successful. Goals that are consistent with your intrinsic values and are approach goals (I want to succeed in this class) vs. avoidant goal (I don’t want to get a bad grade) can lead to improved well being and success. In this teleconference workshop you will learn how to set the right kind of goals and how to track your progress. Each participant will leave with an action plan for how to achieve his or her 30-day and 60-day goals. No need to leave your home or office for this workshop; you simply call in to the 1-800 number five minutes before the start time (noon). Specific details will be sent to all students registered in the workshop. See schedule.
How to Start an Essay: Strategies for Developing Ideas, Breaking Through Writer’s Block, and Revising
See schedule.
Improving Reading Strategies
In this workshop, which is an introduction to the more comprehensive Harvard Bureau of Study Counsel course Reading and Study Strategies, participants will assess their current approaches to reading, and then learn and experiment with new approaches that may be more effective for studying at Harvard. Participants are encouraged to bring something they are currently reading to use during the workshop. See schedule.
Jump-Start Your Second Semester
Hoping to do things differently this term? Wondering how to change your approach to classes this time around? Too many regrets about fall semester? This workshop will provide an opportunity to review first-semester experiences, to delineate areas for change, and to consider alternative strategies for the spring term. See schedule.
Preparing for and Taking Exams
Students often experience anxiety and frustration in preparing for and taking exams. This workshop will present strategies for exam preparation and exam-taking that can minimize anxiety and allow for greater success feeling prepared before taking an exam. See schedule.
Procrastination
This workshop will combine discussion and practical exercises. We will work on understanding the experience of procrastination and on freeing ourselves to use our creative processes in moments when we feel resistant, blocked, or paralyzed. See schedule.
Speaking Up in Class
This workshop will provide strategies for students who wish to free their voice to participate in classes. Through discussion in a supportive group context, the focus will be on increasing self-confidence and managing anxiety in academic settings. See schedule.
Stress Management for Academic Success
This workshop will review physiological, cognitive, and emotional reactions to stress and introduce strategies for self-regulation. Group exercises will include a breathing exercise, a tension and relaxation exercise, a visualization exercise and a short meditation. See schedule.
Taking Effective Notes
This workshop will explore the elements of successful note-taking, both from readings and lectures. We will consider the attitudes conducive to effective note-taking as well as the functions and characteristics of good notes. See schedule.
Time Management
This workshop will consider ways busy students can think about and manage their time more efficiently. The workshop will also address time management as it relates to study strategy skills. Participants will outline plans to become more strategic with time use. See schedule.
Using and Citing Sources in Academic Writing
Using Gordon Harvey’s Writing with Sources as a starting point, this workshop will cover the main tenets of how to correctly and elegantly incorporate sources into academic writing. We will discuss how to use a consistent system to document sources responsibly, avoiding plagiarism. To help students distinguish between irresponsible borrowing of ideas and proper source citation, we will examine a variety of citations to see if the sources are well used. We will also look at the most effective reasons and ways to incorporate sources, considering when to quote and when to paraphrase. Finally, we will discuss the art of smoothly integrating source quotes and information into academic essays. Please read Writing with Sources and bring it to the workshop. See schedule.
Using Harvard’s Libraries and the Internet for Academic Research
Using Gutman Library as an example, this workshop, in lecture format, covers types of resources, designing search strategies, components of a literature review, and evaluation and citation of resources. In addition, we review strategies for using the Web for academic resources, including using search engines effectively, utilizing the subject directories, evaluating websites and information, and citing online resources. See schedule.
Using your “Signature Strengths” to Create More Flow and Academic Success (teleconference)
Research in positive psychology has found that across cultures, there are 24 strengths that most people have. Knowing and using your top 5 “signature strengths” can help you increase flow moments—when we are totally immersed and engaged in what we are doing—and lead to more enjoyment and satisfaction. School children who succeed academically were found to possess the strengths of perseverance, love, and gratitude, but the most potent predictor of work satisfaction in adults is zest—a deep passion and excitement for what you are doing. In this teleconference workshop you will learn how to apply your strengths to current academic opportunities and challenges. All participants should take the Values in Action Strength Finder Questionnaire at www.authentichappiness.com and bring your list of strengths to the conversation. Come prepared to learn, laugh, and talk to great people. No need to leave your home or office for this workshop; you simply call in to the 1-800 number five minutes before the start time (noon). Specific details will be sent to all students registered in the workshop.
Writing Winning Arguments
When you write an academic essay, your goal is to convince your readers that your idea is valid. But what makes for a compelling argument? What separates an argument from several pages of loosely assembled observations? In this workshop, we’ll focus on the elements of academic argumentation: how to determine if your essay has an arguable assertion, how to set up an introduction for your argument, how to structure the body and conclusion of the essay, and how to craft a counterargument. A series of short writing exercises will provide us with opportunities to attempt some of these essay elements. See schedule.
Graduate School
A Conversation about Graduate Degrees and Careers in Psychology
This workshop is open to any students who are interested in learning more about the factors involved in choosing a career in psychology. Dr. Stephanie Sogg, instructor in psychology, Harvard Medical School, will answer students’ questions, and if not covered by those questions, other topics will include: choosing between psychology and other related professions, for example psychology vs. social work; research vs. clinical focus, economic, and other factors; various types of master’s and doctoral degrees in psychology; suggested coursework and practical experience in preparation for application to graduate programs; choosing a psychology program that matches one’s goals and abilities; and choosing an area of interest within your desired discipline. See schedule.
Applying to Law School
Representatives from the following law schools are on hand to discuss the law school application process and offer strategies for successful law school admission: Boston University, Harvard University, Northeastern University, New England School of Law, and Suffolk University. See schedule.
Earning a PhD
Laura S. Malisheski, PhD, assistant director for Graduate School of Arts and Sciences student and PhD advising at the Office of Career Services, will be joining us for a discussion about earning a doctoral degree. Laura will present some helpful tips for applying to PhD programs and discuss some essential questions you must consider before applying. She will also discuss the application process, how faculty admissions committees evaluate you, and actions you can take to strengthen your candidacy. See schedule.
Graduate Degrees in the Helping Professions
Representatives from the following graduate schools of social work and psychology will discuss careers in the helping professions and strategies for successful graduate school admission: Boston University, Boston College, Wheelock, Lesley University, Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology, and Assumption College. See schedule.
Graduate School Application Essays and Personal Statements
Graduate school admission committees look to the essays and personal statements for additional insight about the applicant’s motivation, experience, and vision. Yet applicants who approach a graduate school application essay in the same way they approached their undergraduate essays run the risk of failing to provide graduate programs with academic information critical to admission. This workshop offers participants a look at graduate school essay questions and a chance to think through their options, their strategies, and their plans for completing this important part of the application. See schedule.
MBA Admissions Seminar
The 2009 MBA Admissions Seminar will bring together admissions staff from some of the top business schools. This panel will provide a brief description of each MBA program, discuss the application process, and take questions. You will then have the opportunity to meet the admissions staff at their individual tables during the final half hour of the program. Refreshments will be served. Participating schools include Harvard Business School, Suffolk University, Boston College, Dartmouth College, and MIT. This program will be moderated by Margaret Andrews, the director of management studies and associate dean of Harvard Extension School. See schedule.
Career
A Creative Journey: Museum Studies
Join us to hear Daniel Elias, project director for Peabody Essex Museum’s Education through Cultural and Historical Organizations (ECHO) program, share his professional journey from the cutting edge of contemporary art, to antiques and national TV, to developing cultural education programs with native communities and cultural organizations across the United States. Dan is the former host of the US version of Antiques Roadshow, a contemporary art gallery owner, a publisher, and a recent graduate of the master’s program in museum studies at the Harvard Extension School. For more information about ECHO, visit its website (www.ECHOspace.org). See schedule.
Online Networking Resources: Are you…LinkedIn?
You’ve heard the buzz about the many online networking resources, and everyone keeps telling you how important networking is during your job search. So how does it all work? After signing up, how do you build your network, maximize your profile, and navigate the system to utilize all it has to offer? Join Paula Koczera, program manager from the Harvard Kennedy School Office of Career Advancement and self-proclaimed LinkedIn fan, to learn helpful tips on how to take advantage of all of LinkedIn’s tools. Tips for conducting informational interviews will also be covered briefly by Jill Abruzese, career events and employer relations manager from the Harvard University Office of Career Services for the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. See schedule.
The Art of Answering Interview Questions
Job applicants often say the most difficult part of the interview process in answering questions completely and correctly. Participants in this workshop will discover the motives behind questions and the ingredients to great answers. Role plays will help participants practice their answers to some of the most difficult questions. See schedule.
Bring Your Inner Superstar to Life
How do ordinary people like Oprah, Warren Buffett, Lance Armstrong and the characters in The Wizard of Oz become superstars? What do they do that catapults them to success while others struggle valiantly but only achieve moderate career success? M. Myra S. White, PhD, JD, clinical instructor in psychology for Harvard Medical School, and Harvard Extension School instructor, will share insights from her new book, Follow the Yellow Brick Road. She details how over 60 people from business, sports, media, and other arenas achieved exceptional career success. Her research provides valuable guidance and insights for students who want to learn how to build highly successful careers. See schedule.
Careers in Fundraising with Partners HealthCare
Join us for an information session with a representative from Partners HealthCare to learn more about entering the field of fundraising. Our guest speaker will be Martha M. Hanlon, manager of staff development in the Partners Development Office. See schedule.
Careers in Journalism and Publishing: A Global Perspective
Whether you’re launching a writing career or are already a seasoned journalist, come learn more about a career in journalism from a panel of journalists comprising an industry expert, an alumna, and fellow students. They will describe how internships, networking, facing fears, and pursuing their dreams played a part in shaping their careers. These presenters, Andrew Meldrum, currently the senior editor of GlobalPost; Marcela García, the managing editor of El Planeta; Margarita Persico, who recently completed an internship at Boston Bay State Banner; and Victoria Cheng, a successful freelancer, will share their knowledge on how to get published. See schedule.
Charting a New Course: Advice for the Career Changer
Did you know that today’s professional changes careers an average of four to seven times? Because of these new employment trends, it is important to learn strategies to navigate this new landscape. This workshop will address reasons why professionals change careers and present approaches for making a successful career transition. See schedule.
The Importance of Internships
Find out why internships are so important—particularly in a down economy—and learn about resources to get you started. A panel of fellow students and career service professionals will share their success stories and answer your questions. See schedule.
Innovative Job Hunt Tools and Strategies
What separates successful job seekers from all the rest? Those who position themselves as “thought leaders” get seen as career stars; where leads come their way without asking, their competition is scarce, and résumés are an afterthought. In this session, Ken Lizotte explains how job seekers can practice thought-leading and gain competitive advantages, not only during a current or upcoming job search but throughout one’s entire career. See schedule.
Interviewing: How to Hire Your Next Employer (teleconference)
Interviewing skills can make or break your chance of receiving a job offer. This workshop focuses on the dynamics of conducting a winning interview. Topics include how to effectively prepare and research for an interview, and how to handle difficult and illegal questions. The workshop also covers how to successfully negotiate salary and benefits. Learn how not to leave money on the table! No need to leave your home or office for this workshop; you simply call in to the 1-800 number five minutes before the start time (noon). Specific details will be sent to all students registered in the workshop. See schedule.
Interviewing: How to Hire Your Next Employer
Interviewing skills can make or break your chance of receiving a job offer. This workshop will focus on the dynamics of conducting a winning interview. Topics include how to effectively prepare and research for an interview, and how to handle difficult and illegal questions. The workshop also covers how to successfully negotiate salary and benefits. Learn how not to leave money on the table! See schedule.
Is the Peace Corps right for you? (Virtual Meeting)
Have you ever thought about volunteering your time to live and work in a developing country? Join us for an online discussion with a representative from the Peace Corps who will answer your questions and provide information about the various opportunities with the Peace Corps. Positions range to suit a variety of professional and life experiences, including education, youth outreach and community development, business development, agriculture, environment, health and HIV/AIDS, and information technology. No need to leave your home or office for this workshop; you simply login to register for the online chat. See schedule.
Job Search Strategies: Networking and More
Studies show that networking is the most effective job search strategy. Jump-start your job search now! Learn step by step how to implement this and other effective job search strategies. Conquer your fear and learn how to start networking tomorrow. The workshop will discuss a variety of job search strategies. Learn how to become a proactive job searcher and to be more creative and resourceful. See schedule.
The Nuts and Bolts of Résumés and Cover Letters
First impressions do count! Gain an edge in today’s job market by learning how to write an effective résumé and cover letter. Learn how to market yourself on paper. This workshop discusses, step-by-step, what to include and what not to include on your résumé. Learn how to write and incorporate effective accomplishment statements into your résumé. You will also learn how to create strong cover letters that produce results. See schedule.
Selling Your Liberal Arts Degree to Future Employers
A liberal arts degrees provides individuals with a broad base education and lifelong skills that are applicable to many fields. Students with a liberal arts degree learn many versatile skills, including communication, critical thinking, analytical problem solving, and research. In this workshop you learn how to effectively sell your skills, education, and experience to potential employers. See schedule.
Still Looking for the Right Career?
Maybe the old ways of thinking about work don’t work for you. Maybe there are things to learn from the stories of career changers and wanderers on the career highway. In this meeting, you’ll look in unusual ways at yourself and your experience for clues as to options that may have allure. You’ll challenge assumptions about work, its style: pace, content, and location. Through stories, pictures, writing, improvisation, and drawing, you’ll stretch to find work ideas that get you thinking. See schedule.
Wanted: Liberal Arts Majors for Jobs in Corporate America
Still thinking about your career options as a liberal arts major? You may want to consider a career in the corporate world. Increasingly, companies are hiring liberal arts majors for their depth and diversity. This workshop will help you learn strategies for leveraging your liberal arts background for a corporate career. Additionally, you will learn how to develop your professional profile and to articulate your transferable skills to achieve the job you want. See schedule.