There are now 1.5 million people unemployed in the United States. People, whom register as unemployed, may qualify for unemployment benefits. The monetary value of an unemployment check will vary and could only cover basic needs (such as welfare) or be propionate to what that person was previously earning. Unemployment checks are only distributed if the person is truly unemployed and currently seeking a new job. A recent article on Forbes.com, mentions that it takes 26.2 weeks on average for someone to find a new job even though unemployment (in most states) lasts only 26 weeks. This means, if it takes you longer than average to find a job, you could be left with nothing. 

Finding a job today is more competitive than ever. Employers receive hundreds of resumes every day for open positions. How can you make sure that your resume will stick out?   One sure answer is to go back to school and get your education. A specialized degree, graduate certificate, license and/or certification will automatically rank you above other applicants who only have a high school diploma or GED.   Education in a specialized field will prove to your future employer that you are highly trained and have the necessary knowledge to succeed in the job.  

Since the unemployment rate is at an all time high, it is important to put yourself at the top of the pack when you begin your job search.   You may be thinking, I want to go back to school but how can I afford it? One way you can pay for school is to apply for free job retraining. Free job retraining is offered to registered unemployed people who are looking to learn new skills or improve their current skills to help them land a new job.  You can learn more about these benefits through non-profit organizations such as Goodwill, Career Voyages and the Jewish Vocational Service. 

Another route you can take is financial aid. Most career schools found on Americolleges.com offer financial aid for its eligible students. Applying is easy; just ask your school representative after you have filled out the form. If you don’t qualify for financial aid, you can also apply for a student loan through your personal bank or a private financial institution. Most loans don’t require you to start making payments until you graduate. No matter what your situation is, you have to power to go back to school and gain the education you deserve.