Traits of a Successful Medical Assistant 

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Traits of a Successful Medical Assistant 

Be it in a large hospital or small family practice, Medical Assistants are a necessary part of any healthcare organization. MA’s are essential healthcare professionals performing both clinical and administrative tasks. On any given day, an MA can find themselves answering phones, taking electrocardiograms, scheduling appointments, dealing with bookkeeping, or explaining a treatment plan to a patient. The world they live in is diverse, demanding, and necessary. The following are some of the personality traits that make for successful Medical Assistants.

Positivity

Medical Assistants are often the face of healthcare. They greet patients, answer telephones, and talk people through what’s happening with a given procedure or test. It’s common for patients to feel anxious or worried during an examination or treatment, so a positive attitude from the healthcare worker changing their dressing or running a test can make all the difference in a patient’s morale.

If a MA feels good about their job and their environment, then the patient will feel better about being a patient. A smile, an understanding answer to a question, or a reassuring explanation of a test are essential to effective healthcare.

Empathy

Healthcare workers often encounter patients at moments of vulnerability. MA’s will occasionally find themselves in a position where they are the closest human being to someone in a moment of emotional crisis. When that happens, it’s necessary for an MA to maintain their composure and have an appropriate empathic response to the patient.

Being a healthcare worker is a technical job, but it’s also a deeply human and caring one. Empathy will be essential for any MA in any patient interaction, be it routine or not.

Professionalism

Both the clinical and administrative sides of healthcare depend on an MA. They take medical histories, conduct blood draws, EKA tests and blood pressure. Care and precision are important in every situation, and there is often little room for error. Dedication to accuracy and precision will serve an MA well in all avenues of their professional career, and, in turn, their accuracy and precision will better serve others.

Integrity

Integrity is one of the Allen School of Health Sciences core values, and for good reason. As we say in our statement of values, EDUCATE:

  • • Education Quality & Integrity
  • • Dedication
  • • Understanding of Others
  • • Communication & Consistency
  • • Advisement & Achievement
  • • Teamwork & Technology
  • • Excellence.

Doctors, nurses, hospital administrative staff and most importantly patients depend on the work that Medical Assistants do. When an MA medical begins a shift, they are not just clocking in at work, they are devoting themselves to a career of service to others. At the Allen School of Health Sciences, we are devoted to fostering the necessary positivity, empathy, professionalism, and integrity in future MA’s.

In order to protect our community during the COVID-19 crisis, The Allen School of Health Sciences is offering virtual campus tours for enrollment for our classes starting soon. Contact the Allen School today! We cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu​ to learn more.

-Allen School

Get Medical Assistant Skills and Training Today with a Blended Format of Traditional and Online Classes.

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Get Medical Assistant Skills and Training Today with a Blended Format of Traditional and Online Classes.

Today more than ever, it is abundantly clear that healthcare professionals stand on the front lines when it comes to keeping our world healthy, safe, and happy. In light of recent world events, much of society has gained a new appreciation for healthcare workers, along with a heightened understanding of how much these highly trained professionals contribute to our daily lives.

Whether you’ve long dreamed of a job in the medical field or have found yourself only recently inspired to pursue a healthcare career, the odds are that you’re well aware of the positive impact you can have on your future healthcare role.  If you’re hoping to work toward a healthcare career that you’re proud of, a career as a Medical Assistant may be the path you’ve been hoping to find.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to get the training needed to become a Medical Assistant, and why this career path is the right one for you. Have you ever considered a career as a Medical Assistant? You may be familiar with the job title, but not quite sure about what the role actually entails.

As a multi-skilled healthcare professional, a Medical Assistant takes on a wide range of responsibilities in the healthcare setting. Working under the direct supervision of a licensed healthcare provider, such as a physician, Medical Assistants can work in private and public medical offices, urgent care centers, outpatient surgery centers, and other medical facilities. Depending on experience, education, and interests, a Medical Assistant may opt to work in a specialty field such as internal medicine, pediatrics, dermatology, cardiology, or urology. Roles and responsibilities of a medical assistant can include:

● Taking vital signs

● Assisting with examinations and various procedures

● Drawing blood and collecting other lab samples

● Updating patient records

● Interacting directly with patients during check-in, preparation, and check-out

● Managing administrative tasks such as medical supply inventory, scheduling, and referrals

As you can see from the diverse tasks that can make up a Medical Assistant’s responsibilities, they are a significant part of a facility’s healthcare team. It’s understandable that as the healthcare industry expands rapidly, there is demand for Medical Assistants.

Start Working Towards Your Future Healthcare Career Now

If you want to start Medical Assisting training right away, then you’ve come to the right place! As global events have created dramatic shifts in many of our world’s most basic systems, it’s not surprising that education looks quite different these days. However, that doesn’t mean that you have to put your professional goals on hold.

At the Allen School of Health Sciences, we believe that there’s never been a more important time for future Medical Assistants to begin their training and education. With many campuses being closed for health and safety purposes, our students were faced with a dilemma: how could they get the skills and training needed to become a Medical Assistant? Working diligently to find a solution, The Allen School of Health Sciences created a blended program for our Medical Assistant students. You can take part of our program online and complete your clinicals in a classroom safe environment. As a Medical Assistant, your daily role will be one that centers around helping others, and you will have an important role in the health and safety of our society as a whole. As technology introduces many ways for education to step into the future, healthcare career training is more easily accessible than ever.

In order to protect our community during the COVID-19 crisis, The Allen School of Health Sciences is offering virtual campus tours for enrollment for our classes starting soon. Contact the Allen School today! We cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu​ to learn more.

-Allen School

Fun Things to do at Home During Quarantine

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Fun Things to do at Home During Quarantine:

With everything closed from museums to concerts and sporting events as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic, many Americans are faced with significant time spent at home and wondering how to pass that time. Since safety and social distancing is the main priority, we have listed a few fun things to do at home during quarantine.

Start spring cleaning and maintenance: What a better time than now to start those spring tasks around the house to get your home ready for warmer months. Take this time to organize that closet or room you’ve been putting off or get a head start on outdoor work in the flower beds.

Home Improvement Ideas: Have you been thinking about painting your kitchen? A new bathroom, perhaps? Use your downtown to put those ideas into an action plan. Research contractors, price out paints, finishes, etc. When things get back to normal, you will be ready to move forward with your home improvement ideas.

Take Walks: Getting out of the house and moving is so important to mental health and helps get some movement in. Go on walks around your neighborhood or on your public trails. Most public trails remain open for fitness, but please be conscious if you are using a public trail or path to adhere to social distancing guidelines.

Support your local business: Small business in your area need your help now more than ever. Many of these are in the hospitality and retail industries which are being hit the hardest. Check in with your favorite local restaurant to see if they are offering curbside pick-up.

Listen to Podcasts: TV binging is a given, but have you considered Podcasts? Play them while you are working from home, cooking, or doing work around the house. From comedy, to series, to news, it is a great way to keep your mind occupied during the day.

Adopt an animal: Animal Shelters across the country are facing a crisis as many have been forced to close. Consider using your downtime to help shelters ease the burden while they are closed and adopt an animal

Brush up on skills or start a new career: Use your newly found weekends to brush up on your current skills, or maybe start a new career! Free time is also great for learning a new skill that you have always wanted to learn but have pushed off because you just didn’t have the time. Starting a new career can be overwhelming. Especially if you have never taken an online class. Going from face to face classroom interaction to online classes can be a big adjustment for you. A supportive environment is key. That’s where the Allen School of Health Sciences come in; Helping Medical Assistant students transition to a new way of learning.

In order to protect our community during the COVID-19 crisis, The Allen School of Health Sciences is offering virtual campus tours for enrollment in classes starting soon. Contact the Allen School today! We cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu​ to learn more.

Tips for Online Medical Assistant Students

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Tips for Online Medical Assistant Students

You find yourself sitting in the comfort of your home, your phone, tablet, or laptop resting in front of you. You pull up your online class and are presented with tons of information. You ask yourself, “What am I going to do now”.

If you’ve never done online learning before, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the amount of information presented to you. While you may feel like you are “on your own”, the Allen School of Health Sciences provides consistent assistance and easy accessibility with a live classroom experience. Here are some tips to help you make the transition to online courses with ease.

Be Proactive

You may not be able to raise your hand to ask questions like you did when you were in a physical classroom, but in the online virtual classroom, you’ll still have a space to ask questions, as well as many resources to stay ahead of the game. Make sure you’re utilizing them.

  1. Take time to click through your online course. What helpful things are being offered? Online tutoring? Make-up classes?
  2. Start making a list of all the resources offered to you to refer to later.
  3. If you have unanswered questions, reach out to the instructor.
  4. Develop a personal calendar based on the class deadlines so you can organize yourself effectively. You can use Google Calendar, Outlook, and more.
  5. Make sure you have a quiet, organized place to do your work.

Be Present

Your classroom life may now be behind a screen, but that doesn’t mean you can’t breathe life into every session you attend.

  1. Pay attention during the live lectures. At the Allen School of Health Sciences, all classes are taught in a live-action classroom experience. In many other schools live classroom environments might be optional
  2. Be active on discussion boards: This is a great way to start networking with other classmates and stay connected. Introduce yourself if you haven’t already, bounce questions off each other to be supportive, and take note of any helpful tips from your professor.
  3. Set up your own virtual meet-up sessions with other students. You can do this through Zoom, or whichever virtual meeting platform your classroom uses. Try sending out an email to your class to see if you can get some of your peers together to discuss how things are going and to support each other along the way.

Be Purposeful

Being in a virtual classroom doesn’t mean you’re being let off easy! You must be accountable, and self-motivated to be successful in an online world.

  1. Minimize distractions: When you are setting yourself up for study time, make sure the TV is off, and your phone is put away (preferably in another room), and tell your family that it’s your study time and not to interrupt you unless they need to.
  2. Schedule break times because it can be very easy to get distracted.
  3. Make it fun: Listen to some study music in the background as you tackle assignments (if it helps you focus), ask a friend or family member to quiz you on your notes to allow for some personal contact, and make sure you’re comfortable.
  4. Take your work seriously — you may not be in a physical classroom, but you should act as if you are when you begin every study session. It’s up to you to take responsibility for your work and to appreciate the knowledge being given to you!

While transitioning to an online format can be intimidating at first, you will have many resources to ensure your success. To protect our community during the COVID-19 crisis, The Allen School of Health Sciences is offering virtual career planning sessions for enrollment for our classes starting soon. Contact the Allen School today! We cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu​ to learn more.

-Allen School

Article updated April 5, 2024

Strategies for Getting the Most Out of Online Classes 

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Strategies for Getting the Most Out of Online Classes 

In the past, going to school meant physically attending in-person classes, which often posed challenges for working men and women or those with complicated schedules. Now, thanks to advances in technology, it’s easier than ever to find a healthcare program that offers the flexibility you need, whether through traditional in-person classes, online learning, or a blend of the two.

There are many advantages of going to school online. Taking an online program makes it easier to earn a certificate or degree while balancing work and family commitments.

Online classes can present unique challenges, however, if you’re not prepared. But if you develop skills for effective online learning, you’ll find the courses can be an excellent alternative to a traditional classroom setting. Here are some tips for online learning success to make sure you get the most value out of your next class.

Tips for Taking Online Classes 

If you’re considering taking an online program (or you’re already enrolled in a program) the tips and advice below can help you address their unique challenges to get the most value out of your program.

1. Treat an online course like a “real” thing.

When it comes to online classes, you need to have the discipline to sit down and say, “I am going to work on this,” as well as the dedication to actually follow through. One of the easiest ways to ensure follow through is to remember that you are paying to take this program. Just as you would for a traditional, in-person program, you must “show up” if you’re going to get real value out of your class. Treat your online classes the same way you would a face-to-face class—or, better yet, a job—and you’ll be off to the right start.

2. Hold yourself accountable

Set goals at the beginning of the module and check in with yourself weekly. If you’re having trouble holding yourself responsible, pair up with a fellow classmate, or enlist the help of a spouse or friend to check in as an accountability partner. By being organized, proactive, and self-aware, you can get the most from your online class even when life outside of school becomes chaotic.

3. Practice time management.

The flexibility to create your own schedule is often one of the biggest appeals of taking online classes. But that freedom can also be detrimental if you do not have solid time management skills. Without them, you might easily find yourself cramming before classes or handing in subpar assignments. Though how you manage your time will depend on your schedule, learning style, and personality. Look at the syllabus at the start of the module and make note of major assignments. Mark them on a calendar you check regularly so you know what workload is coming in the weeks ahead. Don’t forget to factor in prior commitments that may interfere with your regular study schedule, so you can give yourself enough extra time to complete assignments. When working on your assignments, try time-blocking, allotting yourself a certain amount of time for each task before moving on to the next one and setting a timer to keep you accountable.

4. Create a regular study space and stay organized.

Set up a dedicated learning environment for studying. By completing your work there repeatedly, you’ll begin to establish a routine. Whether your workspace is your kitchen table, a bedroom, or a living room coffee table it’s important to determine what type of environment will work best for you. Experiment to discover which type of setting boosts your productivity. Wherever you choose, make sure there’s high-speed internet access so you’re not trying to take an online program over a lagging connection. Setting up a regular workspace or office will also help you to stay organized. Knowing exactly where important dates, files, forms, syllabi, books, and assignments live will help keep you on track towards hitting your goals.

5. Eliminate distractions.

From Netflix to social media to dishes piling up in the sink, you’ll be faced with many distractions that can easily derail your studies. The best online students know how to lessen these distractions and set aside time to focus. Exactly how much of a challenge these distractions will prove to be will depend on your own unique personality and situation. Some might find that they can tune out a noisy home by listening to music. Others might choose to work from a bedroom with the door closed to eliminate their urge to multitask at home. Ultimately, you will need to find a strategy that works best for you. Regardless of where you choose to work, consider turning your cell phone off to avoid losing focus every time a text message or notification pops up.

6. Figure Out How You Learn Best

Once you’ve established where you’ll learn, think about when and how you accomplish your best work. If you’re a morning person, make time to study first thing. More of a night owl? Set aside an hour or two after dinner to cozy up to your computer. If the kids require your morning and evening attention, try to carve out a study session mid-day while they’re working on their school work. Brew your usual cup of coffee, put on your go-to playlist, and do whatever you need to get into the zone and down to business. Not everyone learns the same way, so think about what types of information help you best grasp new concepts and employ relevant study strategies. If you’re a visual learner, for example, print out transcripts of the video lectures to review. Learn best by listening? Make sure to build time into your schedule to play and replay all audio- and video-based course content.

7. Actively participate.

Participate in the course’s online forum to help you better understand course materials and engage with fellow classmates. This might involve commenting on a classmate’s paper on a discussion board or posting a question about a project you’re working on. Read what other students and your instructors are saying, and if you have a question, ask for clarification. And if you do feel yourself falling behind, speak up. Don’t wait until an assignment is almost due to ask questions or report issues. Email your professor and be proactive in asking for help.

Going from face to face classroom interaction to online classes can be a big adjustment for you. A supportive environment is key. That’s where the Allen School of Health Sciences comes in; Helping Medical Assistant students transition to a new way of learning.

In order to protect our community during the COVID-19 crisis, The Allen School of Health Sciences is offering virtual campus tours for enrollment in classes starting soon. Contact the Allen School today! We cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.

– Allen School

Medical Assistant Growth in 2020

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Medical Assistant Growth in 2020

The healthcare industry has always been one of the fastest-growing in the world, demonstrating the ongoing need for trained professionals who are prepared to care for patients both healthy and sick. In the United States and around the world, 2020 is projected to be a year of unprecedented growth, as a variety of factors drive the sharply increasing need for a healthcare workforce.

The COVID-19 crisis, as well as several other issues, have created a perfect storm. Ultimately, it seems that the healthcare industry may be facing a serious shortage in 2020 – which is why the growth in workforce demand has increased at a rapid rate.

Medical Assistants are Needed Now More than Ever

The COVID-19 pandemic is just one of the numerous factors driving the growing demand for healthcare workers, with the industry as a whole expecting significant growth in the next several years. Although COVID-19 is a major force behind the need for medical assistants right now, there are several other elements that will continue to fuel demand in coming years, including:

● The aging population and an increase in chronic conditions in the United States, which will require a larger healthcare workforce than is currently available.

● A significant percentage of current healthcare workers are expected to retire, as the “Baby Boomer” generation reaches retirement age.

● Growing availability of new and advanced positions, leading professionals to seek opportunities outside their current positions.

For anyone considering a career as a Medical Assistant or another healthcare role, this means that employment prospects should be excellent in the years to come.

How COVID-19 Has Affected the Healthcare Workforce Demand

As the world experiences a widespread pandemic of historic scale and severity, the need for healthcare professionals have become more apparent than ever before. A newfound appreciation and respect for Medical Assistants and all healthcare workers have swept the nation (and the

globe), and a growing number of people understand how important trained professionals are to the health and safety of our society as a whole.

More Healthcare Workers are Needed Now

A significant shortage in healthcare workers has been one of the biggest challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, as medical facilities around the country realize that their staff simply can’t keep up with the demand for care. As patients are admitted and diagnosed at a steadily increasing rate, there are serious concerns about whether the current workforce will be able to keep up in the next several months. As a result, new healthcare professionals, including Medical Assistants, are discovering that jobs are plentiful. Many facilities are raising their hiring and employment rates, expanding their teams as quickly and effectively as possible to try to meet future needs.

Finally, additional measures are being taken to protect the health and safety of Medical Assistants, and other healthcare professionals. For many medical facilities, it has become very clear that without their healthcare team, quality and availability of patient care will drop – and so, protective protocols are being developed to help keep Medical Assistants, Nurses and other medical staff safe. For example, some facilities are offering their staff benefits such as private transportation to and from work, childcare, grocery deliveries, and sealed meals delivered to their place of employment.

Make a Difference as a Medical Assistant

Are you considering becoming a Medical Assistant (MA)? Not only is this an honorable decision that can allow you to make a positive difference in the lives of countless people, but it’s also one that can lead you to an extremely fulfilling career. As a Medical Assistant, your daily role will be one that centers around helping others, and you will have an important role in the health and safety of our society as a whole.

In order to protect our community during the COVID-19 crisis, The Allen School of Health Sciences is offering virtual campus tours for enrollment for our classes starting soon. Contact The Allen School today! We cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.

-Allen School

Tips for Remote Learning During Coronavirus Outbreak

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Tips for Remote Learning During Coronavirus Outbreak

As COVID- 19 cases continue their upward trend, many schools are closing their doors post-spring break in hopes of preventing the spread of the disease. For students who aren’t

used to remote learning, it can be a stressful and unwanted change. That’s why the Allen School of Health Sciences is doing all we can to ease that transition by establishing a blended

format of traditional and online learning; Integrating a blended format of online work into your in-person classes.

Some schools, however, may struggle through the next few weeks as they figure out how to make the jump from in-person learning to online learning. If you’ve suddenly found yourself shifted from in-person to online learning, we’ve got some tips that will help you make the best out of a bad situation.

1. Keep calm and check your email. 

It’s important to remember that everyone is still figuring out what to do with regards to the COVID-19 outbreak. You must take the time to check your email at least once a day, if not more. The Allen School will likely be sending out regular emails that will keep students abreast to any changes. Additionally, it’s critical to check your email for messages from your professors or instructors.

This is your main avenue of communication during this time. For many instructors, it’s going to be a total “figure it out as you go” situation. Checking your email as well as any message services your school’s online course may have, is the best way to ensure you won’t miss a thing.

2. Plan your time wisely. 

If you can manage it, try to sit down and work through any projects as consistently as possible. If you were already attending school for a block of time every day, use that time to work on your remote assignments. If you can’t, aim to block out a few hours in the evening for keeping on top of your work. Those who haven’t had much experience in online learning may feel the urge to do the work at the last minute. Here’s a helpful tip: DON’T. It’s better to do the work early and often, as there will likely be times you need additional feedback. By waiting until the last minute, you most likely won’t get a sympathetic ear from your instructor.

3. Know what tools you need. 

Depending on the class, you may need to figure out what kind of tools can help you the best. Others may require you to use a computer—especially for quizzes and tests. Make sure to heed warnings about which browsers you should be using—not every online course will work with every browser.

4. Relax 

Don’t stress out so much about the changes and challenges that bubble up. The situation is rapidly changing every day, and everyone is learning as they go. It’s best to recognize that, at best, it’s going to be a bumpy month or so. Your school is likely working out the kinks, and as long as you keep your eyes open and manage your time wisely, you’ll be able to adapt to whatever comes your way. In order to protect our community during the COVID-19 crisis, The Allen School of Health Sciences is offering virtual campus tours for enrollment of our upcoming classes. Contact the Allen School today!

We cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more. -Allen School

Fun Solutions for Coronavirus Self Isolation

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A lot has changed in the last month. In March, preventative measures aimed at slowing the spread of the coronavirus halted daily life around the world. At least one third of the global population is under some sort of restriction, most Americans are under stay-at-home orders and at least 46 states and Washington, D.C., have closed non – essential businesses.

Needless to say, people are spending most of their days inside, alone or with family. Trying to stay healthy during these uncertain times. Below are some activities for your time spent in isolation.

Plant or Garden. 

If you have a yard, why not plant some flowers or even fruits or vegetables? If you don’t have a yard, look into potted plants or indoor gardens! Get creative!

Read long books. 

Now that our social life is on hold, we can dive into some of the biggest books that have intimidated us for years. Suddenly, losing yourself in a good book is not a bad idea !, Do you have a favorite book? Let us know and we will share your suggestion on our Instagram and Facebook pages. (https://www.facebook.com/AllenSchool/  ). (https://www.instagram.com/allen_school/ )

Do 15-minute daily meditations and keep a journal. 

In times like these, it’s easy to focus on negative things. Dedicating just 15 minutes a day to sit down, breath, stay present, and aware of yourself and your surroundings will give you clarity. The simple, but the often hard act of sitting down is so important right now. Challenge yourself to try it for just a minute or so, and get your thoughts down on paper before and after, to see what you notice.

Create mini-goals. 

Create mini-goals each week to establish a sense of achievement, despite the uncontrollable circumstances. These goals can include completing a stretching routine or a new workout; reading a book; journaling; teaching kids how to change the oil in the car; or gardening. At the beginning of the week, create a list of 4–5 things to do that week. And, don’t beat yourself up if you don’t complete them all — the focus right now is to carve out five, 10 or 20 minutes for yourself, no matter what that looks like.

Recycle. 

While we are trying to conserve during this pandemic, it’s important to get creative in making things last. Aside from separating recyclables from garbage, why not go further? If you have an empty sauce jar, for example, why not re-use it as a vase, a drinking glass, or an arts and crafts holder/project for kids.. Food scraps- instead of throwing them out, try and add them to a new meal OR use them to feed the birds! Old clothes- since there is a high demand for masks right now, why not look into sewing your own with old clothing you have around the house/apt? Get creative!

Stay connected with your loved ones. 

In our busy world, it can be hard to stay connected with friends and family. Make a point to connect with loved ones even more than before, as a way to keep yours and their spirits up! Social interaction is one way to find happiness. Staying connected is key to remembering that you’re not alone during this time of social distancing. We live in the age of digital connection — there are so many great ways to stay in touch with others virtually. Give your family and friends a call today!!

In order to protect our community during the COVID-19 crisis, The Allen School of Health Sciences is offering virtual campus tours for enrollment of our upcoming classes. Contact the Allen School today! We cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.

Allen School of Health Sciences: Tips for Medical Assistants Online Learning 101

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Allen School of Health Sciences: Tips for Medical Assistants Online Learning 101: 

Check if your systems are working. 

  • Is your Go-To, Zoom, Skype, and Blackboard apps loading well? – Is your Audio System Working?
  • It’s important to hear your instructor and classmates talk so that they can hear you clearly as well.

Stick to The Allotted Time. 

  • Be mindful of everyone’s schedules. Preparing an agenda easily fulfills this objective.

Give Your Full Attention. 

  • Be present throughout the class. Try not to visit other websites or chat with your classmates while the class is in session.
  • Stay seated and give your full attention to the class and your instructor conducting the meeting.

Mute Your Microphone When It’s Not Your Turn to Talk. 

  • Any unwanted background noise can reduce the success of the online classroom experience. Open your mic only when you have to say something or when it’s your turn to speak.

Announce Your Arrival. 

  • If you’re late to your online class, announce your arrival. After all, it’s something you would do when you entered an actual classroom. This is also important if you are joining a new class and no one knows you,

Manage the Chaos. 

  • Find yourself a quiet spot at home to attend your online classes.
  • Turn off the volume of your TV or sound system.
  • So, you can focus. – Close the door to avoid unwanted guests from arriving in the background. Parents, you know what we mean 😊. It may distract you and your classmates.

FUN TIP: Take advantage of virtual backgrounds if your meeting app supports it. You can turn a messy space into a clean and professional one. Or have a background right out of Star Wars!!!

Wrap up Your Class. 

  • A list of notes and clear action items is the best way to summarize your productive classroom experience. Most classes are recorded. Make notes on the areas you need to review and go back to them later. Ensure you have all the contact information for both instructors and classmates.

Going from face-to-face classroom interaction to online classes can be a big adjustment for you. A supportive environment is key. That’s where the Allen School of Health Sciences comes in. Helping Medical Assistant students transition to a new way of learning.

In order to protect our community during the COVID-19 crisis, The Allen School of Health Sciences is offering virtual campus tours for enrollment in our April 27th class. Contact the Allen School today! We cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.

Tips on working from home

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Tips to Work from Home

In the office, your coworkers often pose the greatest threat to keeping you from getting some real, heads-down work done. They drop by your desk, engage you in conversation, and invite you to lunch. The social benefits of a workplace are definitely nice to have, but they can become a challenge if you’re easily distracted.

At the home office, however, it’s easy for you to become your own worst enemy, because when you’re not surrounded by coworkers, you’re free to drop those pesky inhibitions. At the home office, no one’s watching. You don’t necessarily feel that same peer pressure or communal obligation to get things done. (Also: You can wear shorts and a tee-shirt)!

Get Started Early: When working in an office, your morning commute can help you wake up and feel ready to work by the time you get to your desk. At home, however, the transition from your pillow to your computer can be much more jarring.

Believe it or not, one way to work from home productively is to dive into your to-do list as soon as you wake up. Simply getting a project started first thing in the morning can be the key to making progress on it gradually throughout the day. Otherwise, you’ll prolong breakfast and let the morning sluggishness wear away your motivation.

Choose a Dedicated Workspace: Just because you’re not working at an office doesn’t mean you can’t have an office. Rather than locking yourself up in your room or on the couch, dedicate a specific room or surface in your home to work.

Structure Your Day Like You would in the Office: When working from home, you’re your own personal manager. Without things like an in-person meeting schedule to break up your day, you can be quick to lose focus or burn out. To stay on schedule, segment what you’ll do and when

over the course of the day. If you have an online calendar, create personal events and reminders that tell you when to shift gears and start on new tasks.

Plan Out What You Will Be Working on Ahead of Time: Spending time figuring out what you’ll do today can take away from actually doing those things. And, you’ll have planned your task list so recently that you can be tempted to change your schedule on the fly. It’s important to let your agenda change if you need it to, but it’s equally as important to commit to an agenda that outlines every assignment before you begin. Try solidifying your schedule the day before, making it feel more official when you wake up the next day to get started on it.

Communicate Expectations with Anyone Who Will Be Home with You: Of course, you might be working from home but still have “company.” Make sure any roommates, siblings, parents, and spouses respect your space during work hours. Just because you’re working from home doesn’t mean your home.

AND SOME FUN…….

Match Your Music to The Task at Hand: During the week, music is the soundtrack to your career. And at work, the best playlists are diverse playlists — you can listen to music that matches the energy of the project you’re working on. It only makes sense that it would help you focus on your work as well. ( Tell us what music you listen to when you are working from home. We will post your choices on our Allen School of Health Sciences Instagram @allen_school).

Use Your Laundry as a Work Timer: Doing your laundry is a built-in timer for your home. So, use the time to start and finish something from your to-do list before changing the load.

Committing to one assignment during the wash cycle and another during the dry cycle can train you to work smarter on tasks that you might technically have all day to tinker with.

Keep the TV on in the Background: Of all the tips, tricks, and secrets I’ve uncovered for being more productive at home, one stands out above the rest: Putting on the Yes network! Just keep the Yes Network running in the background at a low volume, and I am able to get stuff done. (I’m not exactly sure why this trick works, but I can only assume it has something to do with Yankees)!”

In order to protect our community during the COVID-19 crisis, The Allen School of Health Sciences is offering virtual campus tours for enrollment of our June 1s t class. Contact the Allen School today! We cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.