Bilingual Administrative Assistant Career Guide and Counseling

Question: Is a full time schooling at a State college worth 40k~80K worth of student loans? I'm looking into a career in teaching English/Japanese. I've been attending a local community college and working full time as a bilingual administrative assistant for the last year, but will be moving back in with my dad in VA, due to my parents impending divorce. Although my dad makes decent money, an expensive mortgage combined with forking over his military retirement to my mother does not give much room for paying for my education. Although I enjoy working in an office environment, I would really like to focus on going to school full time. My dad has said he will send me full time next semester to the local community college in VA, but has also expressed that he would eventually like to see me return to the work full time, go to school thing I'm doing now, thus discouraging me from taking out student loans and going off to a state college. So back to my question, is going off to a state school worth the debt? I have done fairly well with my community college grades so far, (my GPA as of last semester is 3.33 after 13 credits) and intend to at least maintain decent grades if I can't improve on them.

Answer: Yeah, you might be better off working full time for a year to establish residency then apply as an in state student. It's not really worth it and chances are it'll be more than 80K if you're going for a BA or BS. To put that in perspective I will accumulate over 40K in debt in 3 semesters because I transferred out of state this year.

Question: We are looking to move to Mayaguez, PR. Does anyone know of any healthcare jobs, not RN? We are planning to move to PR and I am looking ahead of time. I am still in school for my RN. I just need to do my clinicals which I may look to do in PR. I have worked in medical for 8 years, bilingual and have a medical asst diploma, accounting certified and work very well with computers and as an administrative assistant. Let me know some ideas or websites. Thanks in advance.

Answer: Bring all your documentation with you. Kelly Services in Mayaguez does have an Opportunities in Healthcare Department. You might have to take a 'revalida' which is a test that makes any Healthcare License you have be valid within Puerto Rico. You will be able to use any license that you bring for about one year, then you have to take that test. Good Luck. BTW, Three of the largest hospitals in the area are in Mayaguez, Hospital Perea, in the town, near the Plaza. Centro Medico De Mayaguez, right on the expressway (#2) and Hospital Del Veterano, across from Centro Medico.

Question: Can someone view my resume and give me some kind of feedback? Objective Presently seeking an administrative assistant position where I can work with a creative team of individuals, where promotional opportunities are achievable. Experience 1998–Present U.S. Security Associates New York, NY Supervisor ( Young & Rubicam Brands) • Answer phones, faxes and emails. • Assist customers / clients with incoming questions • Monthly reports and theft reports. • Schedule and payroll. 1996–1998 162nd Dental Office New York, NY Receptionist • Responsible for updating calendar and scheduling appointments. • Filing and creating records for new patients • Assisting patients with incoming questions. • Follow-up calls, after patients visit. • Answer the phones and fax. • Verify insurance coverage / co pay. 1994–1996 Ronald Gerard Delphin, M.D. New York, NY Receptionist • Filing and creating records for new patients • Answer the phones and fax. • Verify insurance coverage. Education 2002-2006 Bronx Community College Bronx, NY A.A., Liberal Arts / Early Childhood Development. 2006-Present Lehman College Bronx, NY B.A., Major: History and a Minor: Early Childhood Education Certificates / SKILLS • CPR/AED, First Aid and Fire guard certificate • Lotus Notes • Microsoft Word, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Excel, • Customer service skills • Proactive and detailed oriented • Bilingual English / Spanish. *furnish reference up on request.

Answer: In the objective: "where promotional opportunities are available" not are achievable - or just ", with opportunity for advancement" which is probably better Under experience: just questions, not incoming questions - what other kind are there? On your BA - the way you state it, is ambiguous as to whether you've completed it. Since you say "-present", I'm assuming you haven't, so I'd say something like "working toward BA..." or "completion expected xxxxxxx". I wouldn't put SKILLS all in caps unless I put "certificates", experience, and education all in caps also - either way is OK but be consistent. last line - no space in the middle of upon - and might say "References available...: rather than "*furnish reference..." Other than those few minor things, looks pretty good. Good luck.

Question: Can someone please give me advice on how to get a job or interview in Chicago:)? Hi everyone? I am having a hard time finding a job in Chicago. Can someone please help me with advice on how to get a job? I have been searching for a job more than 4 months ago and I still have not had any luck. So far I have tried Craiglist.com, monster.com, hotjobs.com and career builder.com. I have also submitted my resume and spoke to some people in the following agencies: Lakeshore Staffing, The Opportunity Group, The Esquire Staffing Group, Temp Time and Five Star Recruiting. But I have not had any luck. Does any one have any other suggestions or know of anyone that would be able to help me? I am looking for an Executive/Administrative Assistant position, Office Manager position, bilingual position, graphic design, Human resource or customer service position. Thank you all for taking the time to read my question, I am really grateful for your help.

Answer: Call me at 847-376-2893 x 244. I might have a position for you.

Question: I need a job, help on what field I should get into? I am kind of undecided in what kind of job a should get into. I am a 19 yr old student and I have experience in customer service (Retail) I was also a receptionist for a mortgage company, and now I am an administrative assistant. I know everything from quickbooks, purchase orders, sales orders, debit memos, purchase requisitions, answering phones, multi-tasking......etc. Also salary, I am looking for something 14 hr or more. I am looking for a job that lets me walk a lot I don't like just sitting in a desk all day! Something where I don't have to drive my car so much for errands, tired of that! I am also bilingual (english/spanish) Your help is greatly appreciated! Thank You

Answer: Check out online surveys, such as http://www.losrios.edu/lrc/ois/index.htm…

Question: Ghanaian native wanting to come settle home would appreciate any information on finding work in Ghana? I'm bilingual as in a french citizen but born ghanaian and i work in the administrative field as a personal assistant. I want to try and find a job in Ghana before settling but I don't know what to expect and i'm really anxious to find out on how similar situations ( outsiders coming or coming back to Ghana ) turned out.

Answer: Hi Renee, You don't say where you are now living (though I'm assuming France or other French-speaking country), but I can tell you that unless you're hired by a multi-national corporation, you'll find very few job opportunities as a personal assistant that will pay well. Generally, most white collar workers make less than $100 a week, some significantly less. If you're determined to come to Ghana to live/work, you may find it more lucrative to work as an online freelance translator. Good luck! Barb

Question: is this a good cover letter and resume? is this a good cover letter it is just an example...and resume also..i am looking for a job and want to know if this sounds good. thanks let me know your opinions ps..i did not put my contact info July 8, 2009 Mr. David Smith Employers Title Matheson Postal Services, Inc. 2500 Poplar St Oakland, CA 94607-2414 Dear Mr. Jenniges: Your ad advertisement in the Craigslist website job id number 1234 on Tuesday July 1, 2009 looking to fill an Administrative Assistant in your company interests me. With over nine years of administrative experience, Having strong leadership skills and a proven ability to manage and motivate a team and I feel that these assets will make a positive impact on your company. My resume accompanies this letter and would like to be considered for this position. Through my experiences I have developed strong organizational skills that will allow me to contribute to your office operations such as (name specific job duties) Working in a fast paced environment for three years for the United States Army requires that I prioritize my work, accomplish assignments within tight deadlines, but yet deliver high quality work. In addition to create a department that had quickly grown to more then 150 employees. Presently, I have saved my employer thousands of dollars by creating a database and web page to track military officers. This database is used more then ever now. At your convenience I would welcome the opportunity to discuss the position and my candidacy with you. If you have any questions, please contact me at (707) 430-8376 or by email at charles1perez@yahoo.com. I will be contacting you within a week. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Charles Perez Charles Perez Enclosure: Resume CAREER OBJECTIVE To obtain a challenging position as an Administrative Assistant which will allow me to both further utilize my education and experience for advancement and career growth. ACQUIRED SKILLS Computer: Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, Outlook, Publisher, PowerPoint; Typing; 65WPM, Web Designer; Repair Computers. Bilingual in Spanish (reading, writing, speaking, and interpreting) HIGHLIGHTS OF QUALIFICATIONS Ambitious self-motivated worker who takes initiative; demonstrating a willingness to take on new and varied projects and an ability to handle changing priorities and deadlines; capable of handling multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment; sharp in learning and comprehending new systems and methods; work effectively in collaboration with others; works without constant supervision and acts independently; strong organizational, planning, & time management skills. WORK HISTORY Unit Administrator /Human Resources Assistant United States Army (03/2006-Present) Provided high-level administrative and training support for all components of the United States Army: Marines, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard; saved thousands of dollars by creating website to know where military officers were located; saved time by using databases created in Microsoft Access; self-motivated by taking on tasks not part of job description such as ordering office supplies, coordinated and planned activities with military officers to ensure timely completion; performed office services such as making identifications cards; updated and entered correspondence for new military soldiers into website; created slide presentations and flyers using Microsoft Power Point and Publisher; Assisted Tech Sergeant with duties such as preparing new military officer files, scheduling meetings, filing personnel records, answering multi-line phones up to 6 lines, and keeping track of military data calendars which included vacation time, absences, tardies, etc. General Office Clerk Lipman Insurance Administrators (10/2005-02/2006) Performed administrative and office support activities for multiple managers such as answering telephone calls, receiving and directing visitors, word processing, filing, and faxing; collaborated with others by relieving management of administrative detail and projects by backing up receptionist; doing multiple tasks simultaneously such as sorting and distributing incoming and outgoing mail, received UPS and FedEx shipments; handled Spanish speaking customers and inquiries; organized, filed and retrieved all corporate documents, and insurance records. Administrative Assistant MWB Framing Company (06/2000-06/2005) Created queries using Microsoft Access to save time and money for the company; used Microsoft Excel to prepare order and invoice forms; provided administrative/secretarial support such as answered multi-line phones up to 10 lines; assisted applicants with information

Answer: Perfect =P

Question: Would you hire me? Feel free to correct any thing? Objectives Bring my good attitude, organization skills, work experience and knowledge as well as my determination to grow with a company. Experience 2006 ~ 2007 Re/Max Property Source Rockford, IL Assistant to Real Estate Agent ~ Manage all client data base in several programs ~ Send correspondence to all clients / mailers / marketing ~ Serve as interpreter for Hispanic clients ~ Schedule, Showings, Closing, Open Houses ~ Order, Title, Clear Water, Appraisals, Inspections ~ Design flyers, submit to 3 different home magazines ~ Maintain listing and Closing Contract, Follow with up dead lines on all contracts ~ Notary Public expires 04/2011 2005 ~ 2006 Century 21 Country North Rockford, IL Receptionist / Assistant ~ Serve as primary contact for all visitors to office ~ Provide English / Spanish interpretation as needed ~ Filing, Typing, Answering phones ~ Handle incoming mail and out going mail ~ Schedule all showing appointments for the realtors ~ Employee of The Year Award 2006 2004 ~ 2005 A American Financial Group, Inc. Hoffman Estates, IL Mortgage Loan Processor ~ Order VOE/VOM/VOD/ Payoff / Appraisals/Title ~ Pull credit and order supplements to the credit report ~ Once LO Locked the rate, submit files to different lenders ~ Clear conditions on loan approvals within two weeks in most cases ~ maintain database for all Account Executives 2002 ~ 2004 SWIFTT, INC. Rockford, IL Membership Services ~ Maintain membership database / Outreach work with small business ~ Handle incoming mail and outgoing ~ Serve as interpreter for small business ~ Organized all meeting, Event planning, Design flyers, business cards 2001 ~ 2002 Staffing Services, INC. Belvidere, IL Administrative Assistant ~ Accounts payable / Front desk ~ Assisted candidates with the application process ~ Interviewed Spanish-speaking candidates ~ Help staffing specialist fill job orders ~ Filing, typing, answering phones 1998 ~ 2001 Janet Wattles Center Rockford, IL Emergency Services Receptionist ~ Schedule client appointments including cancellations ~ Register clients for service ~ Direct and check in administrative visitors ~ Maintain center forms (duplicating and keeping adequate supply) ~ Serve as primary contact for all visitors to clinic ~ Provide English / Spanish interpretation as needed Education • 1997 GED Rockford, IL Skills Bilingual in Spanish

Answer: For starters...it's way too long!!!!! Definitely change your objective....especially the part where it says "to grow with a company." It sounds kind of like something a teenager would say in their resume (please don't take offense, you asked for help). Say something like....... "Seeking a position where I can apply my experience and knowledge toward the growth and success of the company." Or "Looking to use my experience and knowledge to help in the growth and success of the company." Of course, those are generic, but something along those lines sounds much more professional than what you have listed above. Also, I think a big downfall on your resume will be the number of jobs you have listed and the fact that you only stay with companies for a year or less (I think there was one company on there with two years) This does not look good at all. A hiring manager will look at that right away and know something is not right. They will also avoid hiring you for fear that you may only stay with their company for less than a year. And, in reality, it's a huge waste of time and money for companies to train you, pay you, and possibly have you leave soon after. If I were you, I would only list your three most recent jobs. If you get an interview, you can always mention your oldest jobs then....but only if they ask! And, remember, a resume should be kept to one page!!! One page and half of another one is still ok, but remember....the shorter the better. Work on some things and post this resume again. We'll let you know how it looks. But from someone who hires people on a daily basis, I would really redo this resume before turning it in.....Honestly, I would not even give you an interview if you turned this in to my company. Hope this helps!

Question: How can i improve my resume? Objective: Seeking a challenging position in the business field with a progressive company that will fully benefit from my background and training for professional growth and advancement. Skills ♦ Bilingual English/ Spanish ♦ MS Office Word ♦ Customer Service ♦Accounts Payable ♦ File Maintenance ♦ MS Outlook/Excel ♦ well organized ♦Financial Statements ♦ Multi task environment ♦ Power Point ♦ typing 45 wpm ♦Time management ♦ Count Cash, checks ♦ Collections ♦ Tenant Pro ♦ Data Entry/scanning Work Experience Administrative Assistant- • Reporting to owner, responsible for managing day-to-day operations of 7-employees. • Meeting with clients to discuss granite projects residential and commercial. • Manage company files, accounting records, data entry, follow up with clients on daily basis. • Purchasing material from slab yards with credit card or check. • Maintain daily calendar, Schedule work as well as to understand and resolve problems, contacting vendors, direct employees to job site and picking up material. • Make business grow by advertising on different websites. • Made company over $40,000 in sales. a/p Enter all Vendor and Utility invoices using Tenant Pro. • Complete the weekly check run, print checks, and month-end close statements. • Sort and file check copies along with invoices. • Match, code, and research past due invoices. • Communicate professionally with tenants, vendors, visitors enquirers and relevant staff. • Saved company money by paying utility bills on time. Customer Service • Provide Customer Service in person or over phone, and updated client information. • Scan client documents, file maintenance, receive and review incoming mail, and taking messages. • Type Letters and send out for renewals or cancellations. • Assist clients in making payments.

Answer: Iam a recruiter , i hope this helps (try not exceed more than 2 pages ) Resume Format : objective: Summary of employment :(This is only required if you have more than 5 years and worked more than 2 companies ) Skills: Educational Qualification: Experience Summary : Credentials: Reference:(if required)

Question: I need a 2nd job perhaps in retail, but it's hard! I need resume help?!? Summary of Qualifications: Delivery of superior customer service and support. Provided optimal assistance while solidifying the client experience resulting in referrals. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, also bilingual in English and Spanish. Experienced with Microsoft Office, can type 50 words per minute and knowledgeable with 10 key. Ability to work well with all levels of management and staff. Work well under extreme pressure with minimal supervision. Outstanding personal dynamics: friendly, determined, and loyal. If given the opportunity will give 110% towards becoming part of a team and becoming an asset to the company. Work Experience: ABC Lab, CA. Specimen Coordinator- June 2006 to Present Maintain confidential Laboratory and client information. Responsible for finding samples throughout the lab. In addition, help Clinical Lab Scientists set up and run the tests. Build worksheet templates and update data records into computer system daily utilizing company program Triple G, Outlook and Excel. Create efficient filing system for clients and company records. Lastly, answer phones and handle as appropriate. XYZ Bank, CA. Bank Teller December 2006-July 2007 Processed customer transactions within established guidelines. Identified and made sales referrals, recommended alternate channels, cross-sold bank services and products for XYZ Bank partners. Provided excellent customer service. Additional duties included safe deposit, merchant/vault, ATM processing, bonds and coupons, foreign currency and night drop. Also, answered phones and handled as appropriate. 123 Insurance Company, CA. Administrative Assistant- December 2004 to June 2006 Assisted brokers and officers. Processed life applications utilizing company program TAM and Outlook. Responsibilities included routing images utilizing image browser. As well as filing, copying of legal documents, mail sorting, and inter office deliveries. In addition, helped in the licensing department. Education: ABC Community College, CA. Major: Business Administration- Presently Attending. This is my regular resume::... Everytime I apply for a retail store at the mall or wherever for a part-time I never get a call back....Any suggestions would be greatly appreciate it....Thanks a bunch!!

Answer: Wow, It looks like your over-qualified for JUST a retail postion. But I can tell you one thing...your "resume" gave me a headache, its too much stuff jumbled up. Make it more interesting, pick out ur KEY points not every little detail. List only the employment history that is relevant for the position applying for. You worked at a LAB....dont add that to a resume for a retail position that has nothing to do with retail.Too much information gets boring. Your education and the bank job alone should get u a job interview atleast. By the way, It was very impressive. (Skill -wise)