Ethnic group of elderly people Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Ethnic group of elderly people - Research Paper Example The research aims to collect data from an ethnic group of elderly people highlighted the cultural patterns among which they were living their life. The methodology employed was participant observation and interview method by the researcher and the mode of research was ethnographic research method. The researcher had to take informed consent and establish rapport with the participants of the study to undertake the research process. The data collected from the researcher showed the type of life spent by the subject in the old home and their values, beliefs and life styles. It was found out that they were strongly attached with each other and had a good sense of belonging with spending their life according to their religious and cultural background. The research gives a valuable insight into the life of elderly people which can be used to study the cultural patterns of this ethnic group. It is expected that the study would prove to be useful for the future researchers as well who would like to study the same topic. The ethnic group chosen for the research is elderly people living in the old homes. The mode of research was participant observation as well as in-depth interviews were also being conducted to obtain additional information about the subjects of the study. The topic chosen for the ethnographic research is the nature of life spent at old homes by elderly people. Also the purpose of the research was to gain significant insights about their life styles as manifested by their appearance, interaction with peers and other things. The reason for the selection of this topic was to conduct research in a significant area that was related to a segment of a society that was generally neglected and needed attention. Therefore, the study was focused on elderly people to understand their issues and concerns that they had about the society and also to make their situation better by making themselves heard by others in the community. As the research tools used to collect data were participant observation method and interview method, it was necessary to establish rapport with the subjects of the study firstly before conducting the actual research. Another ethical consideration was taking consent of the participants to use them as subjects of the study which was enabled by asking them about their willingness to take part in the study. The informed consent was taken from the old home’s management staff to use the residents as the participants of the study. The permission was granted and 15 elderly people were used for the research by asking them individually about their willingness to participate in the research process. The ages of elderly people were from 75- 90 and both men and women were included in the research sample. In order to establish rapport with the participants, an effort was done on making them open up and take part in discussion with the researcher who had to meet them frequently and engage in friendly conversation with the aged people. The researcher asked about their general well-being and showed concern for them which made the elderly take the researcher as a friendly person with whom they could share their personal feelings and thoughts. In order to proceed with the research process, the researcher constantly met with the elderly people for a period of two weeks on regular basis. The researcher spent two to three hours with them daily and observed the type of life they spend in old home. The interviews were taken from the participants occasionally to synthesize with the information taken from the participants’ observation. Main Discussion The research was undertaken on elderly ethnic group by means of interview and participant observation method. The concepts of anthropology applied on this research are ethnicity, culture and race. Ethnicity implies a group of people living in the same

Argentinas Economic Crisis Essay Example for Free

Argentinas Economic Crisis Essay To divert attention from increasingly severe political and economic problems, in 1982 the junta ordered an invasion of the nearby Falkland Islands, a British territory that Argentina had long claimed. British forces counterattacked and took back the islands. A huge debt was accrued as a result of the war and at the end of the military government in 1983, the country’s industries unemployment were severely affected (Saxton, 2003). In 1983, the junta transferred power to an elected civilian president, Raul Alfonsin of the Radical Civic Union party. The new government’s plans included stabilizing the economy and introducing a new currency known as the austral. New loans were taken out and state eventually was unable to pay the interest on debt and eventually the confidence in austral collapsed. Inflation spiralled out of control, GDP shrank and wages fell by almost half. Following riots President Alfonsin stepped down six months before his term. In 1989, the Justicialist (Peronist) party’s Carlos Menem began governing and in 1991, he appointed Domingo Carvalho as the Minister of the Economy who introduced ‘Convertibility Law System’, which took effect on April 1, 1991. Saxton, 2004, p. 4). The Convertibility Law System ended the hyperinflation by establishing a pegged exchange rate with the U. S. dollar and backing the currency substantially with dollars. The aim was to ensure the acceptance of the currency after the 1989 and 1990 hyperinflation period, as people started rejecting the currency and dema nding US dollars (Hill, 2011). The exchange rate was initially 10,000 Argentine australes per dollar; on January 1, 1992 the peso replaced the austral at 1 peso = 10,000 australes = US$1. 4 (Saxton, 2003) Argentines were allowed to use dollars freely, price stability was assured and the value of the currency was preserved. The quality of life was raised for many and people could afford to travel abroad, buy imported goods and ask for loans from banks at a low interest rate. Argentina attracted extensive foreign investment, which helped modernize its utilities, ports, railroads, banks, and other sectors (Saxton, 2003). However, the fixed exchange rate made imports cheap which lead to loss of Argentina’s industrial infrastructure and increase in unemployment. In the meantime, government spending continued and public debts grew substantially as government needed to borrow to finance external debt. However, the government showed no intention of paying debt off and also delayed payment schedules, while IMF kept lending money. Eventually in 1998 Argentina entered in a four-year recession, during which its economy shrank 28 percent (Saxton, 2003). This happened as a result of the Argentina exports were harmed by devaluation of Brazilian Real and international revaluation of the dollar effectively revaluing the peso against its major trading partners Brazil and the euro area (Hornbeck, 2002). By 1999, elected President De la Rua was left with a country where unemployment had risen to a critical point and the undesirable effects of the fixed exchange rate were showing. The De la Rua government was mainly worried about the federal budget deficit, which was 2. 5 percent of GDP in 1999. That left only one option: raising tax rates. President De la Rua secured approval for three big tax increases, effective January 2000, April 2001, and August 2001. Hence, massive tax evasion and money laundering happened also led to funds evaporating to offshore banks. In 2001, the freeze on bank deposits began, in response to large withdrawals as people started losing confidence in economy. The economy turned from recession to depression as people and businesses could not make payments. Credit evaporated. Many people took to the streets in angry demonstrations which also led to supermarket looting and President De la Rua resigning (Horbeck, 2002). By late 2001, the government tax revenues plunged as the economy contracted and the Argentina government defaulted in its debt repayments, effectively ‘rendering ? 80 billion of government issued bonds worthless’ (Hill, 2011, p. 99). The debt default to IMF was the final nail in the coffin and in early 2002, the government finally allowed the peso to float freely. Hence, the peso immediately fell $1=3. 5 pesos (Hill, 2011). Q1. A fixed exchange rate is an  exchange rate  for a  currency  where the government has decided to link the  value  to another currency or to some valuable commodity like gold. For example in 1990, Argentina fixed the exchange rate of the Argentinean peso to the U. S. dollar at $1=1 peso. A government may fix its currency by holding  reserves  of the  peg  (or the  asset  to which it is fixed) in the  central bank. For example, if a country fixes its currency to the  British pound, it must hold enough pounds in reserve to account for all of its currency in  circulation. Importantly, fixed exchange rates do not change according to  market  conditions. It is also called a pegged exchange rate. For most of the period between 1975 and 1990, Argentina experienced hyperinflation (averaging 325% a year)+, poor or negative  GDP  growth, a severe lack of confidence in the  national government  and the  Central Bank, and low levels of  capital  investment. After eight currency crises since the early 1970s,  inflation  peaked in 1989, reaching 5,000% that year. GDP was 10% lower than in 1980 and per capita GDP had fallen by over 20%. Fixed investment  fell by over half and, by 1989, could not cover yearly  depreciation   particularly in the industrial sector. Social indicators deteriorated seriously: real wages collapsed to about half of their 1974 peak and income poverty rates increased from 27% in 1980 to 47% in 1989. After the 1990s when Argentina fixed its Argentinean Peso against the Dollar, the economy started to settle and actually demonstrated the benefits that fixing an exchange rate can have. By adopting a fixed exchange rate, the government reduced uncertainties for all economic agents in the country. As businesses had the perfect knowledge that prices are fixed and therefore not going to change, hence they could plan ahead in their productions. The fixed exchange rate system avoids the wild day to day fluctuations that are likely to occur under flexible rates and that discourage specialisation in production and the flow of international trade and investment. Argentina implemented its currency board in April 1991. Its main achievement was in controlling inflation, which was brought down from more than 3,000% in 1989 to 3. 4% in 1994. Another major accomplishment of the system was renewed economic growth. Enjoying the high world prices of  primary products  (Argentinas main exports), GDP grew at an annual rate of 8% between 1991 until the  Tequila Effect  of 1995. Even after the  Mexican crisis, until 1998 the annual growth rate was 6%. International trade  also increased dramatically, reflecting the growing degree of openness of the country. Imports increased from US$ 11. 6 billion in 1991 to US$ 32. billion in 2000. Likewise, exports also increased from US$ 12. 1 billion in 1991 to US$ 30. 7 billion in 2000. 2) Why was Argentina unable to maintain its fixed exchange rate regime? What does this tell you about the limitations of a fixed exchange rate regime? In the end, the fixed exchange rate regime did not last and Argentina had to abandon this policy to regain its position in the market. This was mainly because the pegged value was devalued by many countries and this caused global economic growth to decline considerably and the demand of exported Argentina commodities to decrease sharply too. This in turn made Argentinean goods more expensive in other international markets. On top of this, with Brazil devaluing their own currency against the US dollar made matters worse for Argentina as this had an influence on their Argentinean peso, pricing their goods out of the market. The decline in global prices for farm products and the global economic slowdown only added to Argentina’s problems. Even though the fixed exchange rate policy had succeeded previously in strengthening Argentina’s competitive positioning in the global market and stimulated economic growth, this would not have survived for long. The fixed exchange rate regime contains many drawbacks and would not have worked forever, as maintaining this fixed exchange rate conflicted with many other macroeconomic objectives of the country. There was also less flexibility present in a fixed exchange rate policy and caused difficulty for Argentina to respond rapidly to the shocks in the market, as pressure was added on to the currency. This affected the competitiveness of the market and also inflation rates, thus causing Argentina to alter their policy further. However, this is proven to be difficult as some countries may see this as an unfair trade advantage to them, causing some degree of disagreement between certain countries, affecting their competitiveness in the economy and making it harder for them to defend its own currency. Question 3: Do you think that the IMF was correct to insist that the Argentinian government adopt a fiscal austerity program? What other approach could the IMF have taken? The Argentine monetary crisis hit in 1999, but the IMF had been working closely with Argentine government since 1991 and had supported the Peso’s peg to the US Dollar. IEO, 2003), (Stiglitz, 2002) The IMF (2003) considers their policies in the run up to the crisis to have been lax and based on too much optimism. The organisation blames structural weaknesses in the economy; mainly high public sector debt, as well as other factors like lack of labour market flexibility and their own enforcement on these issues. While supporting Argentina through lending, the IMF called for fiscal austerity in order to boost confidence and attract much needed international investment. (MacEwan, 2002), (Stiglitz, 2002), (IMF, 2003) The fund argues that an expansionary fiscal policy was ruled out because there was no surplus from which to spend and deficit spending would have caused the debt to grow at a higher rate than the economy. Furthermore, a budget deficit could have led to higher interest rates for borrowing. (IMF, 2003) Given the fixed exchange rate, an expansionary monetary policy, i. e. increasing the money supply, was not possible. (MacEwan, 2002), (IMF, 2003) MacEwan (2002) argues that fiscal austerity had the opposite effect and reduced markets’ confidence in the country, which led to a worsening of the crisis. An alternative view is that it is normal for a country to run a moderate budget deficit in a recession and that an expansionary fiscal policy would have been more appropriate. (Stiglitz, 2002), (MacEwan, 2002) MacEwan (2002) goes further and explains that â€Å"curtailing social spending on education, health care, physical infrastructure projects cuts the legs out from under long-term economic progress. † In recent years, in spite of the financial crisis and the still-recent default, the Argentine economy has been doing well, growing by 9. 2% in 2010 and 8. 8% in 2011 and is expected to grow at least 5. % in 2012, with the growth being attributed to both fiscal and monetary stimulus. (MarketWatch, 2011), (Dow Jones Newswires, 2012), (MercoPress, 2012) The expansionary policy has led to inflation rates of 22. 75%, which seem to be causing labour disputes when wage increases fail to keep up. (MercoPress, 2012) For conclusion, something like: Even considering the high inflation rate (22. 75%) and resulting labour disputes, the situation is preferable to the massive debt and street riots of 2001. Q4 In the end the Argentinean government was forced to abandon its peg to the dollar.

Essay --

Benefits of investing in small cap funds are in galore. Most vitals are: 1. Small-Cap Stocks traditionally outperform the Large-Cap Stocks 2. Lack of Coverage creates potential Small-Cap bargains 3. Small-Caps have higher growth prospects However, there are certain factors that work together in bringing about these benefits. As Peter Lynch puts it, "Know what you own, and know why you own it." So, first and foremost, you have to understand the financial standing of the companies whose stocks you are planning to buy. It is essential to know that companies having strong fundamentals can make sure that you get good returns on buying their small cap stocks. Secondly, it is also important for you to be able to average out the buying price of small cap stocks. Also, the small caps are not always included in the mutual funds and thus it is always advisable to all the investors to do a thorough market research before investing in potential small companies. Small Caps Stock Investing Tips Many people scamper to buy stocks, pushing the price upwards, in order to make quick money! W...

Mgt/311 Motivation Strategy Plan Essay

Abstract This paper will review the motivational strategies that best suits each of the three employees based on their characteristics. I would go on to describe the motivational strategies I have chosen and why they would suit theses three individuals. This paper will also point out the motivational theories that are best connected to the motivational strategies I have chose I have come up with motivational strategies that I felt was appropriate for all three individuals based on their portfolio from their self-assessments and their characteristics. In order to do this I had to evaluate each of the individual’s characteristics and see what best suited their interests. Mike is able to make reasonable decisions but could at times make rash decisions which could have a negative affect the way he makes decisions regarding his job. He lacks self-motivation when it comes to his employment. Mike is mildly emotional although it he may become overwhelmed under pressure. He has a relatively positive emotional outlook when it comes to his job. Mia tends be able to valuable decisions regarding her life and job which is a positive feature for her job. She also tends to be self-motivated but may become bored with her job from time to time. Mia emotions could interfere with job related issues because she seems to be highly emotional. She is able to work under li ttle to no supervision Positive emotional outlook about her job but this could fluctuate depending on stress level which means she would be open and receptive to helping others. Ray has a good since of direction when it comes to making decisions he too could work well under little to no supervision. He tends to be self-motivated but may need a boost here and there due to lack of interest. Like Mike Ray tend to have mild emotional reactions to job duties and job related stress but seems to be able to regulate his emotions. Great positive emotional outlook toward his job and tend to be very helpful to others. There are a few motivational strategies that I have chosen these strategies are in place to suit each of the three individuals. The strategies I have chosen is merit based pay plan, flexible benefits, employee recognition, employee involvement programs and bonuses. Each of the individual’s characteristics that benefits from one or all of these choices. The merit based pay plan would help the individual engage in their jobs better because great performance equals a great raise. Flexible benefits also helps them to choose benefit package that best suits their individual needs, this is seen as a perk of the job. Employee recognition would suit each of the individuals because this would help them feel good about the work they are doing and would make them want to keep doing a great job, it would also boost their confidence. Employee involvement is another strategy I would use because this would give the individuals to become more involved with not only their assigned job but with other things in the company as well. This would also help them to do things out side of their job and expand their knowledge. Lastly I chose bonuses I feel as if the company is doing well it would be because of the employees and the bonuses would also give the individuals something to look forward to and help them to want to keep up their performance because if their performance goes down the production of the company goes down and so will the bonuses (Robbins and Judge, 2011). The two motivational theories that are connected to my motivational strategies are two, factor theory and expectancy theory. According to Robbins and Judge (2011) expectancy theory is a theory that believes that employees would be motivated to a high level of effort when they feel as if it would lead to a better performance appraisal. The two motivational theories believe that a person is basic and their attitude towards their work could determine their success or failure (Robbins and Judge, 2011). With my strategy I not only want the individuals to have a good attitude towards their job but to also feel appreciated for doing their work. References Robbins, S. P., & Judge, T. A. (2011). Organizational Behavior (14th Ed.). River, N.J. Pearson/Prentice Hall. University of Phoenix. Employee Portfolio: Motivation Action Plan. Retrieved from University of Phoenix, MGT/311 Organizational Development website.

The Buddhist Architecture

The Buddhist architecture has a lot of history that comes along with the culture, India is known for being the center of Buddhism as well as the highlight Buddha teachings. Different parts of Buddha life is instilled in the architecture. According to â€Å"The Buddhist Architecture† (2007), â€Å"Caves or grottoes are the oldest form of the Buddhist architecture. They are also known as the rock-cut monasteries, which were hewn from the cliffs and rock walls of the valleys. In India, the most significant cave is Junta caves, near modern Arranged, Maharajah's. † (Para. Two and Four).The caves had played a large part in the history of Buddhist architecture; it was more than Just a building or even a simple rock. According to â€Å"The Buddhist Architecture† (2007), â€Å"Pagodas are the principle form of Buddhist architecture, which are used as religious multistory Buddhist towers, erected as a memorial or shrine. The most important factor was Consciousness, which is the ultimate reality. † (Para. Two and Four). There are various buildings associated with religion, but the one that came out at the most in my search was, â€Å"Amphibian Temple,† this place is known or being a place where â€Å"Buddha† obtained inspiration and enlightenment.There were other temples in China called, â€Å"Ethane Temple†, â€Å"Lama Temple†, and † Gangue Temple† these temples hold a lot of education surrounding Buddhism and what it represents, it is an important place to be visited while in China. The Elder (2008) website â€Å"Numerous churches, monasteries, convents and shrines show sites connected with the earliest years of Christianity, and the life and ministry of Jesus and his disciples. The design of these constructions was affected as much by the religious traditions of the individual Christian community.Christianity was instilled in the buildings such as churches, even from the rooftop the column of a church . â€Å"Plans. ?Many Early Christians shadowed the basilicas model for their new churches (up. 198, 206) and may also have used old Roman halls, baths, dwelling- houses, and even pagan temples as places of worship. Walls. ?These were still constructed according to Roman methods of using rubble or concrete, faced with plaster, brick, or stone (p. 210 B). Mosaic design was added internally (p. 21 1), and sometimes also externally on west facades; though little regard was paid to external architectural effect (p. 09). † (â€Å"Early Christian Architecture – Comparative Analysis†, 1921). The walls expressed certain parts of the religion was alters, roofs and openings in a church. Some names of the buildings surrounding this architecture were, â€Å"The Church of the Holy Sepulcher, Jerusalem and The Church at Gal. Loused. † Islamic architecture and art pieces were in different areas that Islam either dominated or still remains dominant while still embodying M uslim precepts in its themes. The earliest architectural monument of Islam is the Dome of the Rock Jubbah al-Sahara) in Jerusalem, created in 691-92.Some Muslims believe it to be the area from which Muhammad rose to heaven. â€Å"It has mosaics depicting scrolling vines and flowers, Jewels, and crowns in greens, blues, and gold. Similar in some aspects is the later Great Mosque of Damascus (built c. 705-14) the culture of Islamic Spain reached its apogee in Moorish art and architecture. The Mud © Carlyle of Spain employed through the 18th cent. And, important until much later in time, is founded on this architecture. † (â€Å"Islamic Art And Architecture 2012).

Arad. City of Old and New essays

Arad. City of Old and New essays Arad is an old city, being mentioned in documents for the first time in the eleventh century. It is believed that the city has got its name from Knight Orod, knight of King Saint Stephen around 1000 AD.. Turks conquered the region in sixteenth century and their occupation lasted for almost two centuries. Under this Turkish occupation a new fortress (a historical monument that is still in use today) was built. It was bigger than the previous ones and had three exterior walls and many small defense points in the immediate surroundings for increased protection. Later, the region entered under the occupation of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and many important treaties were signed in the Arads fortress. At the beginning of the 20th century Arad was the biggest town in Transylvania, today being the second largest one after Timisoara. Arad is situated on the right bank of the river Mures, and consists of the inner town and five suburbs. Arad is a modern town and contains many handsome private and public buildings, including a cathedral. It is the seat of a Greek-Orthodox bishop, and possesses a Greek-Orthodox theological seminary and a conservatory for music. The nomad tribes invasions, more than 800 years ago determined the local people to build defense positions showed that defense positions were needed and in the second half of the thirteenth century there were built fortresses at Soimos, Siria and Dezna on the hills surrounding the city. Some of their walls are still standing today and offer a great tourist attraction. ...

Top 10 jobs for trade school graduates

Top 10 jobs for trade school graduates Your educational path post-high school should be one that works best for you. For some people, that’s a four-year degree (or beyond). But for many others, choosing a trade-specific education and building career skills that way is the most fulfilling and financially viable option. If you’re thinking about opting for a specialty trade school as you set your own professional goals, we have info on some of the top careers you can pursue without going the university route. 1. ElectricianElectricians install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring and equipment. The day-to-day work may involve installing, maintaining, and fixing wiring and electrical equipment, installing transformers and circuit breakers, using devices to diagnose electrical problems, reading blueprints, ensuring safety and compliance with national regulations, and ensuring that others are working safely with electrical devices, tools, and infrastructure.What you’ll need: Electricians typically serve a four-year apprenticeship in which they receive direct on-the-job training. This may be done in conjunction with an electrician training program at an accredited trade school, or right out of high school. Most states require electricians to be licensed, so be sure to check your own state’s requirements.How much they make: $52,570 per year, or $25.35 per hourThe career outlook: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that the field will grow about 9% by 2024- about average for all jobs.2. PlumberPlumbing can be a dirty job, but someone has to do it, and that someone can build a lucrative career out of this specialty. Plumbers install and repair water pipes and septic systems. Their day-to-day work may include installing pipes and water fixtures, diagnosing and troubleshooting water-related issues, repairing or replacing water pipe systems, ensuring that plumbing systems are up to code, reading blueprints, and billing customers. This can be a very physically demanding job, as it also requires a lot of hands-on manual work and dexterity.Some plumbers are hired full-time by government agencies or private companies, but many are small business owners and contractors working on their own.What you’ll need: Plumbers typically serve an apprenticeship in which they receive direct on-the-job training. This may be done in conjunction with a plumber training program at an accredited trade school, or right out of high school. Most states require plumbers to be licensed, so be sure to check your own state’s requirements.How much they make: $51,450 per year, or $24.74 per hourThe career outlook: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that the field will grow about 16% by 2024- much faster than average for all jobs.3. Dental HygienistAt a dental appointment, hygienists are the ones who handle prep for procedures, as well as clean teeth and treat minor dental health issues. (They’re also the ones who can tell immediately whether you’ re flossing as much as you say you do.) Their day-to-day responsibilities may include cleaning teeth, examining patients for signs of oral disease (like gingivitis), providing preventative dental care, assisting with dental surgeries and procedures, and educating patients on oral health and follow-up care. Most hygienists are employed by private dental offices, though they may be found in healthcare facilities that offer dental care.What you’ll need: An associate’s degree in dental hygiene from an accredited program (which generally takes two to three years to complete). And although every state requires dental hygienists to be licensed, the requirements to get and keep a license may vary, so check your state’s requirements.How much they make: $72,910 per year, or $35.05 per hourThe career outlook: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that the field will grow about 20% by 2024- much faster than average for all jobs.4. Respiratory TherapistHealthcare field s are growing exponentially, and although many career paths in this field require an advanced degree, there are plenty of options that require trade-specific programs and certification to get started. One such field is respiratory therapy. These professionals work with patients of all ages who may have trouble breathing due to chronic respiratory conditions like asthma, heart conditions, or emphysema. Their day-to-day work may include examining patients, working with physicians and other medical staff to develop treatment plans, diagnosing conditions through tests, treating patients with therapy and medications, monitoring and recording patient process, and educating patients on at-home or follow-up care.Respiratory therapists typically work in hospitals, private medical offices, or other healthcare facilities. The job may require shifts on nights, weekends, or holidays, especially for therapists who work in hospitals or other facilities that are open all the time.What you’ll need: An associate’s degree in respiratory therapy from an accredited program. Respiratory therapists need to be licensed in all states except Alaska, so you should check your own state’s specific requirements for licensing.How much they make: $58,670 per year, or $28.21 per hourThe career outlook: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that the field will grow about 23% by 2024- much faster than average for all jobs.5. Licensed Practical NurseLicensed practical nurses, or LPNs (also known as licensed vocational nurses) provide basic nursing care, under the direction of registered nurses and physicians. Their day-to-day work may include performing basic vital signs tests, changing bandages, inserting or removing catheters, helping patients with tasks like bathing or dressing, monitoring patients, and keeping detailed patient records.What you’ll need: A certificate from an LPN-specific program at an accredited school. All states require LPNs to be licensed and may have different regulations as to what an LPN can and cannot do on the job, so be sure to check your own state’s specific requirements.How much they make: $44,090 per year, or $21.20 per hourThe career outlook: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that the field will grow about 12% by 2024- faster than average for all jobs.6. HVAC TechnicianWith cooling issues in summer and heating issues in winter, HVAC (Heating, Venting, and Air Conditioning) technicians are often in demand year-round. These professionals work on the systems that regulate air and temperature in buildings. Their day-to-day work may include installing heating or cooling equipment, diagnosing and fixing issues with air quality and temperature, installing electrical components and wiring, inspecting air systems, performing general maintenance on air systems, and ensuring compliance with air quality regulations.What you’ll need: A certificate from an HVAC-specific training program at an accr edited school, plus on-the-job training.How much they make: $45,910 per year, or $22.07 per hourThe career outlook: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that the field will grow about 15% by 2024- much faster than average for all jobs.7. Diagnostic Medical SonographerDiagnostic medical sonographers use imaging equipment (like sonographs and ultrasound) to help diagnose or treat patients with internal injuries or conditions. Their day-to-day work may include preparing patients for testing, taking medical histories, educating patients about diagnostic imaging tests, preparing and maintaining diagnostic image equipment, operating diagnostic equipment, reviewing test results for accuracy, identifying normal and abnormal test results, analyzing the diagnostic results and providing them to physicians, and keeping detailed patient records.What you’ll need: An associate’s degree or a certificate from an accredited diagnostic medical sonography program. Although there ar e no state-specific licensing requirements, many employers prefer or require Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) professional certification.How much they make: $64,280 per year, or $30.90 per hourThe career outlook: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that the field will grow about 17% by 2024- much faster than average for all jobs.8. Cardiovascular TechnologistSimilar to diagnostic medical sonographers, cardiovascular technologists use imaging equipment to diagnose and treat heart issues and conditions. Their day-to-day work may include performing tests like electrocardiograms, stress tests, and Holter monitoring to track cardiovascular health and activity, preparing and maintain the testing equipment, reviewing test results for accuracy, identifying normal and abnormal test results, analyzing the diagnostic results and providing them to physicians, and keeping detailed patient records.What you’ll need: An associate’s degree or a certificate from an accredited cardiovascular technologist program.How much they make: $64,280 per year, or $30.90 per hourThe career outlook: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that the field will grow about 17% by 2024- much faster than average for all jobs.9. Truck DriverIf you really want a job that’s outside of the 9-to-5 world, truck driving is a field that literally leaves the office behind. Truck driving schools are becoming more popular, as logistics careers heat up in general. Truck drivers’ day-to-day work may include loading freight, inspecting and securing cargo, driving long distances to deliver goods or materials, performing vehicle maintenance, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and keeping detailed logs of their travels and deliveries.This is a job that requires long hours and the willingness to be away from home for extended periods of time. It also involves a lot of physical labor and stamina.What you’ll need: A commercial driver’s license (CDL ), with additional certifications if you’re interested in handling and transporting hazardous materials. Truck drivers may also need to complete a certificate from a professional truck-driving school.How much they make: $41,340 per year, or $19.87 per hourThe career outlook: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that the field will grow about 6% by 2024- about average for all jobs.10. ParalegalParalegals are legal assistants who support attorneys, and it may surprise you to know that it’s not a job that requires law school, but rather a program in paralegal studies. Their day-to-day work may include maintaining and organizing files, doing legal research, gathering evidence and documents for attorneys, writing reports to help prepare attorneys for trials, drafting and reviewing legal correspondence, taking affidavits and other legal statements, filing briefs, and working with clients or witnesses to schedule appointments, interviews, or depositions.What youâ€℠¢ll need: An associate’s degree or a certificate from an accredited paralegal studies program.How much they make: $49,500 per year, or $23.80 per hourThe career outlook: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that the field will grow about 15% by 2024- much faster than average for all jobs.If you’re thinking about taking the trade school route, there are â€Å"think outside the college box† options that can get you working in your field fairly quickly, without much of the debt and time investment of a more traditional four-year college education. Again, your career path should be what works for you and your goals, and there are lots of specific programs out there that can give you the exact education you need to get started.