How To Get A Job In Tech

September 27th, 2011

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With the country still deep in recession, the jobs situation seems to be worsening with each passing day. Americans are seriously hurting, and with through-the-roof unemployment combined with stagnant wages, large-scale economic recovery seems a long ways off. A few industries, however, seem impervious to decline, and tech is one of those industries. Indeed, with Android and iPhone sales raging to record numbers and Facebook bigger than ever, the big 3 companies in tech especially seem to be having no problems with growth and employment. Naturally, a lot of us would like to work for them. But how? This infographic details the lay of the land in tech right now, where the hottest cities are, and who is hiring for what. Perhaps most importantly, it lets you know the hottest emerging fields in tech, and the kinds of degrees that can get you there. If you have been considering grabbing a master’s degree in a tech specialty, there may be no better time than right now.

When C’s Became A’s – Grade Inflation in Higher Education Today

August 17th, 2011

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There is a huge amount of debate swirling over the issue of higher education right now, touching on nearly every aspect of our college and university model. One of the most popular arguments is over the quality of the average student’s education.

Recent studies have suggested that students often don’t learn much over the course of their four-year college experience, scoring the same on critical thinking tests at graduation as they did as freshmen. Other studies have pointed to the fact that many employers as dissatisfied with the caliber of graduate our universities have been churning out.

But here’s the thing: by all objective measures, the current generation’s graduates are exceptional. A’s account for an astounding 45% of the grades handed out in college classrooms these days. This seems like an incredible accomplishment; but where are all the news articles celebrating the smartest students of all time?

The answer is that the giant proportion of A’s being doled out isn’t due to bright students – it’s all a result of a severe trend in grade inflation that has been increasing in scale over the last half-century. Whereas C’s accounted for the bulk of grades in the 1960s, they represent a meager 15% now. The tried-and-true bell curve has been replaced by a steep hill. And before you guess that students must just be working harder, get this: students actually spend 13 hours less per week on academic activity than they did in 1960.

If grade inflation is really the culprit in this striking trend – and all scientific evidence indicates that it is – one might be inclined to wonder why this is happening. It’s not totally clear what is causing it, but it is clear what’s not: students being smarter, or studying harder. And when master’s and doctoral degree programs are overwhelmed by a flood of straight A applicants – few of which are actually good students – the admissions process becomes extremely problematic.

50 Best Blogs for Med Students

March 17th, 2011

Going to medical school is hard work even if the degree is well worth it in the end. Students can expect to get little sleep, study long hours and take a significant hit to their social lives just to stay afloat. Sometimes it can be nice to get some reassurance that you're not alone, remind yourself why you got into the field in the first place, and just enjoy reading about medical topics for something other than class. These blogs offer medical students at all levels a chance to do just that, with insights and advice from others in their position, doctors and health care experts from around the world.

News and Views

Check out these blogs to read the latest medical news or to hear commentary from those working in the field.

1. The Health Care Blog: This blog is one of the best sources of health care news and articles about those working in the medical profession. If you're not already a regular reader, bookmark it. Recommended Post: "Nurses: Protocol-ed to Extinction."
2. MedGadget: Keep up with the latest emerging medical technologies by making this blog a regular read. Recommended Post: "Electronic Contact Lenses for Better Vision."
3. DrugWonks: Through this blog, you'll stay in-the-loop when it comes to following the nation's drug policies– something that can and will affect you every day on the job. Recommended Post: "What does Pharma want?"
4. Center for Healthcare Research and Policy: This foundation offers up the results of their research into the field of healthcare on this blog, free for you to use to better educate yourself. Recommended Post: "Propensity Scores: What Do They Do, How Should I Use Them and Why Should I Care?"
5. Johns Hopkins Medicine: If you want to keep up with the research being done at this world-renowned institution, make their blog a regular part of your daily reading. Recommended Post: "Johns Hopkins Researchers Turn Off Severe Food Allergies in Mice."
6. RangelMD: If healthcare news commentary is what you're looking for, this blog is an excellent source of information and insight. Recommended Post: "Massachusetts to Force Doctors to Accept Lower Rates or Lose License."
7. WSJ Health Blog: From news about the politics of healthcare to articles about the latest research, you'll find a wide range of useful medical information on this site. Recommended Post: "How To Help People Lose Weight? Give 'Em Free Meals and Money!"
8. Medical Lessons: This oncologist shares his thoughts on medical news, communication, health care and more on this blog. Recommended Post: "You're Sick and I'm Not, Too Bad (on Empathy)."
9. Clinical Nature: If you'd like to work with some less traditional methods in your medical career, this blog offers up news about alternative treatments without neglecting progress being made in other, more traditional methods of health care practice. Recommended Post: "Qualitative and Quantitative Research in Integrative Medicine."
10. Medical Blog: If you're looking for basic information on medical conditions, drugs, news and other issues, this blog can be a good place to start your research. Recommended Post: "Immune System. "

For Students

Students will find helpful resources and information on these blogs, which can help them make it through every part of medical school.

11. Scrub Notes Medical Blog: Need some tips on how to succeed as a medical student? You'll find them in spades on this great site. Recommended Post: "How To Study First Year Medical School Anatomy."
12. Medical Educator: Prepare for your exams and get ahead in schoolwork with some help from this site, perfect for any struggling medical student. Recommended Post: "Historical Horror Stories in Medicine."
13. Future Docs: Read about issues related to medical education on this great news blog geared towards medical students. Recommended Post: "Attending Rounds with the iPad: Hype or Hindrance?"
14. The Student Doctor Network: Whether you're looking for support, advice, help or answers to your own questions, this blog and its accordant resources are a must-bookmark for any student, young or old. Recommended Post: "Interview Advice: What to Wear, What to Wear."

By Medical Students

Bond over the long hours and impossible courses you take as medical students when you read these great blogs written by others still in school.

15. Jennifer Hawke: This blogger shares how she's completing medical school while juggling being a new mother at the same time. Recommended Post: "Residency application: Letters of Recommendation."
16. The Underwear Drawer: Covering topics like medical school, residency, exams and more, this medical student and parent shares her journey. Recommended Post: "dr. wiki."
17. MD Journey: This unconventional medical student shares his thoughts on everything from applying to making it through your first years of medical school here. Recommended Post: "Countdown To Med School."
18. ScienceRoll: This student of genetics shares his journey through medical school as well as some great links, information and news ideal for a student in any field. Recommended Post: "Internet in Medicine University Course: Wikipedia and Medical Wikis."
19. The Long Road to Medical School: Here you'll find a former businesswoman who decided to finally pursue her dream and head to medical school. Recommended Post: "Biostatistics vs. Lab Research."
20. Of Ditziness and Doctoring: Check out this fun blog for stories of one young woman's journey through medical school, trying to learn, care for patients and have some fun at the same time. Recommended Post: "dissections."
21. Life as a Medical Student: Being a medical student can be rough, so you can relate to the posts this blogger shares about life, learning and everything medical school. Recommended Post: "EKG Training."
22. Dose of Reality: This blog is a great resource for medical students. Published by the University of Michigan Medical School, it contains posts from students, residents and doctors alike. Recommended Post: "EM2."
23. Anonymous Doc: Check out this blog for a little perspective on the medical profession from a second year medical student. Recommended Post: "Is false hope better than no hope?"
24. Midwest Med Student Meets East Coast Politics: Focused on health care and family medicine, this blogger shares her experiences training for her future career in Portland, OR on this blog. Recommended Post: "Hospice."
25. Cold Girl Fever: This doctor in training shares how her real life experience in medical school is nothing like Grey's Anatomy. Recommended Post: "Staying on the path."
26. Restless Med Student: With posts on topics like ethics and cancer and a few good old medical school rants of frustration, this blog is a well-rounded read for students. Recommended Post: "Nasopharyngeal Cancer."
27. Defying Gravity: This blogger is a fourth year medical student in Scotland, sharing experiences both at work and in life at large through this site. Recommended Post: "Thoughts At The End Of SSM."

Academic

Health care professors and researchers maintain these interesting blogs giving you insights into how to perform better in class and some career opportunities that might be available to you when you graduate.

28. Clinical Cases and Images: You'll be able to read news about the latest research and clinical cases on this blog, maintained by an assistant professor at the University of Chicago. Recommended Post: "How Doctors Use Google."
29. Reflections in a Head Mirror: Located on the Medical College of Wisconsin's main site, this blog written by Bruce Campbell (the doctor, not the actor) is a great source of medical information. Recommended Post: "The Small Things."
30. db's Medical Rants: On this site, you can hear Dr. Robert Centor rant about all things medical from internal medicine to the state of American health care. Recommended Post: "Sometimes Money Buys Better Health."
31. Aetiology: Assistant Professor Tara C. Smith studies epidemiology and shares some of her insights to the most infectious diseases in the world here. Recommended Post: "Swine flu and deaths in healthy adults–cytokine storm?"
32. DocNotes: Started in 2009, this blog focuses on topics like health, technology and family medicine. Recommended Post: "Bronchitis and Product Management."
33. Dr. Thompson's Blog: This doctor is fed up with today's medical system and shares some scary stats and interesting articles here. Recommended Post: "The Tragedy of Hospital Infections."
34. Harvard Medical Labcast: Learn what the doctors and researchers at Harvard Medical Lab are working on with this amazing series of podcasts and blog posts. Recommended Post: "More on episode 6: Your genome, your future."
35. Medical Futility Blog: This blogger is both a doctor and a lawyer (and a professor) and shares insights into the legal side of the medical world here. Recommended Post: "Surrogate Selection in Another Futility Dispute."

Doctors

These doctors show you what life will be like once you finally finish your degree program and are out in the real world.

36. Inside Surgery: L. Marcucci, MD shares insights into the world of surgery through this blog. Readers will find everything from bits of news to information about the latest research. Recommended Post: "Dr. Chad Gordon Develops New Patient-Doctor Communications App."
37. KevinMD: From using an iPad in patient care to better understanding public healthcare, this popular blog is a must-read for anyone entering a health care profession. Recommended Post: "Is the critical value reporting system truly life saving?"
38. Incidental Findings: This internist and blogger offers up his take on the downsides of being a doctor quite candidly. Recommended Post: "Death and failure."
39. GruntDoc: You'll get a chance to read some exciting, interesting and sometimes entertaining stories about life in the ER on this blog– as well as some pertinent news articles. Recommended Post: "Online doctor ratings aren't very helpful– USATODAY.com"
40. The Examining Room of Dr. Charles: Dr. Charles blogs about medical news, clinical studies and interesting facts, though he also shows a passion for poetry and literature. Recommended Post: "Exfoliating Soap is Full of Plastic. Seriously."
41. Aggravated Doc Surg: This general surgeon talks about life in the operating room and the joys of life outside of his work as well. Recommended Post: "We Don't Speak the Same Lingo."
42. Dr. Wes: Dr. Wes is an internist, cardiologist and cardiac electrophysiologist who shares his love of medicine and experiences working in hospitals and universities here. Recommended Post: "Why Medical Errors are Good for You."
43. MDOD: Check out this blog to hear what working in the real world is like for nine different American doctors. Recommended Post: "Top 5 MD Myths, Busted."

Hospitals

Many medical students will end up working in a hospital during their time at school or after graduation. Learn more about the politics, economics and other issues that affect how these institutions operate from these blogs.

44. Wachter's World: Get commentary on hospitals, hospitalists and issues related to patient care like safety, quality and more on this blog. Recommended Post: "A Game-Changing Statistic: 1 in 250."
45. The Happy Hospitalist: This blogger has a passion for creating better, more efficient hospitals and shares everything from humor to serious news articles here. Recommended Post: "Is Patient Noncompliance a Marker for Emotional Spousal Abuse?"
46. Not Running a Hospital: Here you'll find the blog of the former CEO of a large Boston hospital who shares his thoughts on patient care, quality control, process improvement and other issues related to health care and hospitals. Recommended Post: "The message you hope never to send."
47. Hospital Impact: Running a hospital, even a non-profit one, is a business. This blog offers insights into how medical and business professionals can improve the business of health care. Recommended Post: "How we upgraded our backup data system and cut IT costs."
48. The Hospitalist Leader: Even your bosses have bosses when you work at a hospital. Get some ideas on how better management can help a large hospital or medical facility run more smoothly. Recommended Post: "The Spend We Don't Have."
49. Medical Staff Leader Blog: Medical school is all about learning from others, so at some point in your studies or career you will be managing someone else. Learn more about how to do it well here. Recommended Post: "MSP offers tips for working collegially to accomplish goals quickly."
50. Hospital Medicine Quick Hits: Get quick news tidbits about clinical studies and more on this blog. Recommended Post: "Significant reductions in ICU transfusions over 10 years."

The 50 Best Books Written By Women

March 16th, 2011

Women have left an incredible literary legacy, with their works earning international acclaim, awards and coveted places on prestigious reading lists and syllabi the world over. Obviously, a list such as this comes saddled with a whole heap of subjectivity, so try to keep the blood pressure down if a personal favorite's been omitted. Plenty more amazing authors warrant exploration than space and time allow, so use these amazing reads as a jumping-off point to discovering even more!

Novels

1. The Awakening by Kate Chopin: While not an explicitly feminist work, Kate Chopin's novel certainly laid the foundation by exploring the thoughts of a woman breaking free from social expectations.

2. Frankenstein by Mary Shelley: The limber, hyperintelligent creature and his monstrous creator at the center of this landmark literary work still resonates throughout today's manic pop culture sphere.

3. Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel: Magic realism, tantalizing food and forbidden romance blend to create a wholly satisfying read — even for those who normally find love stories repellent.

4. The Tale of Genji by Murasaki Shikibu: Most, though not all, literature aficionados consider The Tale of Genji humanity's first modern novel. Beyond its historical significance, the book is notable for its slice-of-life plot, hundreds of characters and painstaking attention to continuity.

5. Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe: Harriet Beecher Stowe's abolitionist leanings inspired her to write a sympathetic portrayal of Southern slaves, further stoking pre-Civil War social, political and economic tensions.

6. Ceremony by Leslie Marmon Silko: Protagonist Tayo's half-Laguna, half-white heritage isolates him from both backgrounds in spite of his World War II heroism. Such pain drives him to find solace in Native American spirituality.

7. The Color Purple by Alice Walker: This Pulitzer and National Book Award winner channeled the horrific exploitation and marginalization of impoverished, female minorities during the 1930s. In spite of the torment, however, an undercurrent of hope and love still trickle throughout.

8. The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan: Two generations of Chinese and Chinese-American women suffer cultural differences, but ultimately learn that family is absolutely the most important thing of all.

9. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen: Although modern audiences tend to focus on romanticizing Mr. Darcy, Jane Austen's Regency classic was actually quite the bitter, scathing satire of her time.

10. Their Eyes were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston: Set in steamy Florida, heroine Janie Crawford grows into an incredibly strong woman after a harrowing series of heartbreaks, traumas and setbacks.

Nonfiction

11. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou: The former poet laureate shares the triumphs and tragedies that inspired her illustrious career, focusing mainly on her childhood in Stamps, Arkansas.

12. The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan: Influential and controversial, Betty Friedan's The Feminine Mystique raised provocative questions about the role of women in American society at a time when they could really only be housewives and low-lever workers.

13. Mythology by Edith Hamilton: Classicists know Edith Hamilton well, as her compilation of traditional Greco-Roman and Norse stories is still widely read and taught today.

14. Remarks on Prisons and Prison Discipline in the United States by Dorothea Dix: This hardworking activist worked tirelessly to provide more compassionate, humanistic care for those tucked away in mental health facilities and prisons.

15. Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi: One of the quintessential graphic memoirs, Persepolis dissects Marjane Satrapi's experiences during the deposition of the Iranian Shah, instillation of a fundamentalist Muslim regime and expatriate schooling in Europe, where she discovers an entirely new set of prejudiced attitudes.

16. The Second Sex by Simone de Beauvoir: Simone de Beauvoir's classic sits on the shelves of most women's studies majors because of its existentialist exploration of what it means to be and behave female.

17. A Vindication of the Rights of Woman by Mary Wollstonecroft: As one of the earliest feminist texts, A Vindication of the Rights of Woman issued forth a then-controversial call to educate women on the same level as their male family and peers.

18. Through a Window by Jane Goodall: 30 years studying the chimpanzees of Gombe, Tanzania opened one of the world's most famous, influential biologists to surprisingly human behaviors and nuances. The experience led Jane Goodall to strive for economic and environmental sustainability in impoverished regions.

19. Twenty Years at Hull-House by Jane Addams: Her work at Hull House and an ardent dedication to ending poverty earned Jane Addams the very first Nobel Peace Prize given to an American woman. The eponymous shelter opened itself to immigrants and sought to help them better integrate into their newfound home.

20. The Story of My Life by Helen Keller: Hear about the extraordinary disabled rights activist's life and how a devoted teacher inspired her to make the world better for the oft-marginalized demographic.

Plays

21. Topdog/Underdog by Suzan-Lori Parks: Two brothers with the bitterly ironic names Lincoln and Booth grapple against their mutual love and hate for one another until things finally go straight to Hell.

22. A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry: One of America's most influential and beloved dramas, A Raisin in the Sun follows a family whose financial and interpersonal struggles revolve around making and breaking dreams.

23. The Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler: Eve Ensler meant for her humorous, poignant reflection of female genitalia to comment on American society's propensity for shaming and making taboo human sexuality.

24. Spreading the News by Lady Gregory: A popular comedy in one act, Lady Gregory utilized common character archetypes to poke fun at certain elements of Early 20th Century Irish society.

25. White Biting Dog by Judith Thompson: Canada's lauded experimental playwright earned a bevy of accolades and awards for her story of a suicidal youth and the titular canine who gives him a second chance at life and family.

26. Gone Too Far! by Bola Agbaje: This slice-of-life drama explores race relations in contemporary London, drawing from playwright Bola Agbaje's own experiences.

27. How I Learned to Drive by Paula Vogel: Driving and the utter control it represents parallels the inappropriate, tense, sexual relationship between a confused young woman and her deeply troubled uncle.

28. Blood Relations by Sharon Pollock: Another cornerstone of contemporary Canadian theatre, Sharon Pollock chilled audiences with her seriously scary and highly psychological drama about Lizzie Bordon's life.

29. The Mousetrap by Agatha Christie: Even detractors of the mystery genre should give The Mousetrap some credit. It is, after all, the longest-running play of all time, credited with over 24,000 performances since 1952.

30. In the Next Room (or The Vibrator Play) by Sarah Ruhl: Taking place in the Victorian era, this fearless drama peers into the prominent female repression, sexual dissatisfaction and the surprising medical origins of the vibrator.

Poetry Collections

31. The Collected Poems by Sylvia Plath: Tragic Sylvia Plath earned a posthumous Pulitzer for her oeuvre, which shed quite a bit of light on the realities of life with severe mental illness and suicidal thoughts.

32. The Complete Poems of Emily Dickinson by Emily Dickinson: While she may not have earned much acclaim in her lifetime, Emily Dickinson's poetic experimentations eventually solidified her place amongst America's most important writers.

33. If Not, Winter by Sappho: Not much remains of this favored Greek poetess' work, but even the fragments receive considerable accolades for their lush, gorgeous lyricism and romanticism.

34. Those Who Ride the Night Winds by Nikki Giovanni: Civil Rights activist Nikki Giovanni used poetry to honor African-American leaders as well as those who supported the movement.

35. Tender buttons: objects, food, rooms by Gertrude Stein: A unique experiment in repetition, form, connotation and denotation, Tender buttons is one of many examples of Gertrude Stein's literary importance and influence.

36. The Seraphim and Other Poems by Elizabeth Barrett Browning: Really, any of this highly praised Victorian poet's published collections could have ended up on this list. Her influence spread to such literary luminaries as Edgar Allan Poe and Emily Dickinson.

37. The Moon is Always Female by Marge Piercy: Although she's published 17 poetry volumes so far, Marge Piercy is mostly praised for this one, considered a strong feminist masterpiece.

38. Live or Die by Anne Sexton: Sadly overlooked these days in spite of its Pulitzer, Live or Die frankly discusses heavy issues such as strained filial relationships and mental illness.

39. Breathing the Water by Denise Levertov: Spirituality, art, family and plenty of other common and not-so-common themes come alive with lush lyricism.

40. The Golden Threshold by Saronjini Naidu: Both politician and poet, Saronjini Naidu's works reflect India's culture and natural beauty during one of its most volatile eras — its desire to slough off the yoke of British exploitation.

Short Story and Essay Collections

41. Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri: This Pulitzer-winning collection explores the lives of both Indians and Indian-Americans, highlighting their cross-cultural struggles.

42. A Room of One's Own by Virginia Woolf: One of the English author's most powerful and lauded works is a book-length essay expounding upon the role of women in literature and society, among other topics.

43. This Is Not Chick Lit edited by Elizabeth Merrick: Readers tired of the endless cycle of men and shoes and men and shoes found in mainstream ladies' literature will find this eclectic, intelligent collection incredibly refreshing.

44. A Good Man is Hard to Find and Other Stories by Flannery O'Connor: Flannery O'Connor is easily one of the most influential short story writers from the English language canon, and this collection perfectly showcases her quintessential Southern Gothic flair.

45. Woman Hollering Creek and Other Stories by Sandra Cisneros: Almost all of the lyrical, feminist prose featured here revolves around intersections and clashes between Mexican and American culture as well as the role of women in relation to their friends, family, society and lovers.

46. Molly Ivins Can't Say That, Can She? by Molly Ivins: A brash, proud Texas woman offers up essays and stories pertaining to her state's culture and politics, particularly the infamous 1990 gubernatorial elections.

47. The Collected Stories of Katherine Anne Porter by Katherine Anne Porter: 1966 saw The Collected Stories of Katherine Anne Porter win both the National Book Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. "Pale Horse, Pale Rider" and its frank, evocative depiction of a depressive episode is probably the most popular of the 19 inclusions.

48. Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout: 13 Pulitzer-winning short stories about the eponymous protagonist peer into different facets of her life and relationships in chilly Crosby, Maine.

49. The Norton Anthology of Literature by Women edited by Sandra Gilbert and Susan Gubar: W.W. Norton regularly cranks out volumes chock-full of essays, short stories, poems and excepts from a diverse selection of women across time and geography.

50. Delta of Venus by Anais Nin: These unapologetic, erotic tales intelligently explore a wide variety of sexual taboos and features various points on the spectrum of human desire.

50 Best Movies for Women’s History Month

March 15th, 2011

March is Women's History Month, and it's a great time to reflect on all of the ways that women have left their mark on the world. A fun way to learn and celebrate women in history is through the movies, whether you're watching biographies on iconic women, or learning about their struggles through documentaries and historic films. Read on to find 50 great movies celebrating women and their history.

1. Our Times: American women aren't the only ones with a reform struggle to tell. Our Times focuses on Iranian women in the 2001 presidential election.
2. One Woman, One Vote: One Woman, One Vote documents the passing of the 19th Amendment by one vote.
3. The Amasong Chorus: Singing Out: This movie shares the growing subculture of lesbian and gay signing choruses through the rise of this feminist/lesbian chorus.
4. Iron Jawed Angels: Hillary Swank stars in this movie about the women's rights movement in America.
5. The Passion of Joan of Arc: See the story of the powerful Joan of Arc in this movie.
6. Sisters of Selma: Catholic nuns had a large part in the efforts to secure voting rights for African Americans in Selma, Alabama, and this movie tells their story.
7. Nine to Five: These women show their boss that they can do a much better job than he can.
8. The Miracle Worker: The Miracle Worker shows Annie Sullivan's amazing work as Helen Keller's tutor.
9. Not for Ourselves Alone: Watch this movie about Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony to learn about the struggle for women's rights.
10. Two Women: Two Women is about two women who attended University of Tehran through the Islamic revolution.
11. The Sound of Music: Watch The Sound of Music in a different light — as the sexual awakening of a woman.
12. The Education of Shelby Knox: This girl transforms from a conservative Southern Baptist to feminist liberal Christian who fights for sex education and gay rights.
13. Mama Flora's Family: See America in the 20th century through Flora, a black woman.
14. Lioness: Although policy forbids women from serving in direct ground combat units, these five female support soldiers ended up in direct ground combat in the Iraq war. They share their experiences through footage, journals, interviews, and more.
15. Far From Heaven: This woman realizes that picture perfect isn't always perfect.
16. Evita: The musical Evita shares the life of a child from the lower class who rises to the role of first lady and spiritual leader of Argentina.
17. The Joy Luck Club: Amy Tan's novel comes to life in this movie about a Chinese-American woman's understanding of her roots.
18. Missing Peace: Watch Missing Peace to learn how how war fails women of faith in various religious backgrounds.
19. The Magdalene Sisters: Watch this movie about women in an asylum for "wayward women" in Ireland.
20. V for Victory: Watch V for Victory to see how important women were to WWII.
21. The Life and Times of Rosie the Riveter: Rosie the Riveter celebrates the achievements of women in World War II, sharing interviews with real workers as well as footage from women working in WWII.
22. Sylvia: Gwyneth Paltrow stars in this movie about the poetry and life of Sylvia Plath.
23. Elizabeth: Elizabeth shows the growth of the new Queen Elizabeth.
24. Ida B. Wells: A Passion for Justice: This movie shares Ida B. Wells' life as a black female journalist, best known for her anti-lynching campaign.
25. Around the World in 72 Days: Journalist Nellie Bly's life is explored in this biographical documentary.
26. A Midwife's Tale: Martha Ballard was an 18th century midwife whose life is told in this movie.
27. Warrior Queen: Warrior Queen offers the story of the Celtic queen Boudica, who shook the Roman Empire.
28. Madame Curie: Learn about the Polish woman scientist who discovered radium in Madame Curie's biopic.
29. Mona Lisa Smile: The female students in this movie are bright, but seem to be just waiting around for the right man to marry, but their teacher helps them reach their potential.
30. 14 Women: Study the 109th Congress that had 14 women in the Senate through 14 Women.
31. Navy WAVES & Coast Guard SPARS: Partically produced in WWII, this movie shares the role of women in the military from the 40s to the 70s.
32. Heaven Will Protect the Working Girl: Watch this movie about immigrant women at the turn of the century.
33. The Circle: The Circle shows how a woman and her baby daughter are unwanted in Iran.
34. Phat Girlz: Mo'Nique's movie discusses women living life to the fullest.
35. License to Thrive: License to Thrive depicts the journey of the legislation that opened doors for women in educational programs and activities.
36. Trouble the Water: Follow aspiring rap artist Kimberly as she finds redemption in surviving Hurricane Katrina.
37. Amelia: Amelia tells the story of Amelia Earhart, the young aviatrix who won the Distinguished Flying Cross for being the first woman pilot to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.
38. Frida: Learn about the life of Mexican painter Frida Kahlo.
39. Erin Brockovich: Erin Brockovich's movie shows the power of one woman who took down a power company polluting a city's water supply.
40. Secrets of the Dead: Secrets of the Dead shares the lives of the race of warrior women, the Amazons.
41. Fly Girls: The story of the Women's Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) and aviatrix Jacqueline Chochran in particular is told in Fly Girls, through archival film and home movies.
42. Companeras: Companeras offers the story of America's first all-female Mariachi band.
43. North Country: Watch this movie about Josey Aimes, a woman who went to work in the iron mines.
44. Norma Rae: Sally Field stars in this movie about a textile worker who stands up against deplorable working conditions.
45. My Brilliant Career: Sybylla rejects the opportunity of marriage to maintain her independence and take a job as a governess.
46. Three Sovereigns for Sarah: Three Sovereigns for Sarah shares the true story of the Salem Witch Trials.
47. Born Into Brothels: Kids who are the children of prostitutes in Calcutta's red light district were chosen to photograph their lives, and their work is shown in this movie.
48. Burning Times: The Burning Times takes a look at the witch persecutions that took place in Europe.
49. Salt of the Earth: Salt of the Earth tells a powerful story of feminism, as the wives of miners in a strike for wage parity play a pivotal role in victory.
50. Rosita: Rosita shares the journey of a 9 year old Nicaraguan girl who became pregnant from rape, and became a subject of political and religious debate.

25 Best Literary Criticism Blogs

March 10th, 2011

Many argue that technology has devalued the written word. Although book sales may be hindered by technology to some degree, the internet has many things to offer the world of literature. It is in the multitudes of weblogs concerning literature and literary criticism that some very important discussions are taking place. The internet allows for a vast number of opinions to be voiced on any given topic all within one public arena. As any person who studies literature knows, there are an endless number of ways to interpret any given text. Exploring the differing opinions on a written work is essential to gaining a better understanding of it. Whether you are an aspiring literary scholar or just enjoy reading what others have to say about the things they have read, these 25 literary criticism blogs offer an excellent way to explore and participate in the world of literary criticism.

1. Publishers Weekly: With a huge amount of information on authors, books, and the publishing industry itself, this site provides insight on almost all areas of the literary world. While there are endless sites dedicated to literary criticism, Publishers Weekly is one of the best when seeking perspectives on the world of publishing itself.

2. The New York Review of Books: Started in 1963, The New York Review of Books has established itself as one of the leading "literary-intellectual" publications. With its extensive look at new releases, children's books, classic novels, and other forms of art, such as theater and film, this site offers something for everyone.

3. Critical Mass: Started and maintained by The National Book Critics Circle (NBCC), Critical Mass acknowledges superior writing and encourages conversations about not only literature, but also literary criticism.

4. Asylum: John Self provides an in-depth look at the various books he reads, examining not only the content of the prose, but also the authors themselves. Self provides a kind of "everyman" perspective on works of literature and specific authors.

5. Voices from the Gaps: Unfortunately still overlooked in many aspects of the literary and academic world, this blog celebrates work created by women of color. While the blog offers reviews of prose and poetry spanning generations and cultures, it also provides helpful and innovative teaching and research tools.

6. A Piece of Monologue: Founded as a personal blog that analyzed only literature, A Piece of Monologue has expanded its discussion to include art, philosophy, theater, and film. This blog offers a broad selection of commentary and analysis, focusing on specific theoretical approaches to literary critique.

7. The Shakespearean Rag: As the Review Editor of Quill and Quire magazine, Steven W. Beattie has limitless knowledge of literature, publishing, and criticism. In his personal blog he provides commentary on various topics, including literature, education, publishing, politics, and more.

8. The Valve: This blog strives to gain a wider audience, and thus a wider array of voices and an overall broader opinion on the literary world. As a collaborative effort to circulate ideas about literary studies, The Valve is one of the most varied blogs available on the web.

9. Blographia Literaria: Blogger Andrew Seal imparts his own criticism of literature, film, and poetry that he encounters

10. Book Lit: Stewart McAbney offers reviews of the many books he reads ranging from contemporary fiction, to classic fiction, to the occasional non-fiction work. McAbney wishes to create a site that archives an extensive number of easily navigable book reviews.

11. Bookgasm: This quirky site examines all kinds of genre fiction, including horror, science fiction, mystery, and suspense, as well as graphic novels, romance paperbacks, and magazines. The site explains that its mission is to discuss "reading material to get excited about."

12. Shakespeare Geek: Started and maintained by self proclaimed "Shakespeare geek" Duane Morin, this site is dedicated to discussing related topic you can think of. Shakespeare Geek is the perfect place to come to read The Bard's celebrated sonnets or ask a question about King Lear.

13. The Penguin Blog: This blog is the United States affiliate of the Penguin Group publishing company. With vast experience in the world of books and publishing, The Penguin Blog provides information about booksellers and publishers, as well as, educated book reviews and more.

14. The Graphic Novel Reporter: Providing reviews of graphic novels and comics, interviews with prominent illustrators, and much more books, The Graphic Novel Reporter is a colorful and exciting website dedicated to the world where written word and art combine.

15. NPR Books: This site, run by National Public Radio, offers book reviews, author interviews, and the latest book news in one easily navigable area. NPR Books is a great place to choose your next read with its variety of essential and bestseller lists.

16. The Elegant Variation: This blog is one of the top ranked lit blogs available online. It offers interviews with famous authors and examinations of a wide array of modern and classical literature.

17. Esther's Classic Literature Blog: Esther Lombardi, who received her master's degree in English Literature from California State University, is a self proclaimed "avid reader and constant writer." Her blog explores all aspects of classic literature and literary criticism.

18. Best American Poetry: This blog is dedicated solely to the discussion and exploration of poetry. Best American Poetry invites guest bloggers from all different spheres of the literary world, allowing for a range of views to be voiced on any give topic.

19. The Reading Experience 2.0: Daniel Green explores the world of online literary criticism, emphasizing contemporary American fiction.

20. N Plus One: This litblog is associated with the print only magazine of the same name, focusing on politics, literature and culture. N Plus One offers provocative and intelligent insight into all forms of literature and literary criticism.

21. The Caustic Cover Critic: This blog takes a unique approach to literary criticism, focusing solely on the cover art and design of various books. The Caustic Cover Critic explores the success and failure of cover design as an interpretation of the literature it contains.

22. Maitresse: Lauren Elkin, an English Literature PhD student in Paris, looks at books, art, and ideas in an investigation of various cultural worldviews.

23. The Long Eighteenth: This blog is dedicated to the discussion of eighteenth-century scholarship and criticism.

24. In the Middle: This blog is a collaborative effort to explore all aspects of medieval literature, including a look at new scholarship concerned with related works as well as the bloggers' own personal criticism.

25. On Fiction: Focused on a psychoanalytic approach to fiction, this blog examines how readers and audience members engage in works of fiction.

50 Fascinating Facts for Women’s History Month

March 3rd, 2011

History texts and classes are often dominated by male figures, yet women have played and continue to play a major role in the world's economy, politics, culture and discoveries and deserve their fair share of recognition as well. March is Women's History Month and there's no better time to celebrate their contributions. Here are some fascinating facts about women's history that will showcase some standouts, accomplishments, impacts and just how far they have come.

By the Numbers

Here you'll find some amazing stats about women in the world today.

1. Today, 71% of moms with kids under 18 work. In 1975, fewer than 47% did. Once upon a time, the idea of women working outside of the home was frowned upon and most women who did so worked as maids, seamstresses, took in laundry or worked in one of the traditionally female fields. Today, more women not only work outside the home, but hold a wider variety of jobs, with some even making it to the top of business, technology and science fields.
2. Women currently hold 17% of Congressional and Senate seats and 18% of gubernatorial positions in the U.S. While women are still underrepresented in political life, the current state of things is a far cry from a time when women weren't even allowed to vote — a mere 90 years ago.
3. In almost every country in the world, the life expectancy for women is higher than men. For virtually all causes of death at all ages, mortality rates are higher for men. Scientists aren't entirely sure why this is the case, but believe it might have to do with the presence of estrogen in the body improving immune function.
4. Approximately 14% of active members in the U.S. armed forces today are women. In 1950, women comprised less than 2% of the U.S. military. Today, women play an active role in serving their country through military service, but many in years past would simply disguise themselves as men in order to gain access to the battlefield, including well-known examples like Frances Clayton in the American Civil War.
5. Over 60 percent of college degrees awarded in the U.S. every year are earned by women. In fact, women are more likely than men to get a high school diploma as well, and the numbers are only expected to rise in the coming years.
6. The two highest IQs ever recorded, through standardized testing, both belong to women. One of these high IQ women is the columnist and author Marilyn vos Savant. Of course, these numbers should be taken with a grain of salt, as IQ tests aren't perfect in measuring intelligence, but it does help show that women aren't inferior to men in intelligence – as was claimed for centuries.
7. More American women work in the education, health services, and social assistance industries than any other. It seems that while women are moving into the workforce in large numbers, they're still taking on traditionally female positions like teaching, nursing and social services. These three industries employ nearly one-third of all female workers.

Sports

Check out these facts to learn more about women in sports throughout recorded history.

8. No women or girls were allowed at the first Olympics, but the Games of Hera, featuring footraces for women, were held every four years. In fact, women were not even allowed to watch the Olympic games or encouraged to participate in athletics (with the exception of the Spartans) so that the games existed at all is surprising. At their inception, the games only included that one event.
9. At the first Winter Olympic Games in 1924, the only event open to women was figure skating. Only 15 women participated in these games, something that would change drastically over the decades.
10. Women were not allowed to compete in track and field events at the Olympics until 1928. The ancient Greeks and Romans may have let women run in footraces in the Heraen Games, but when it came to the Olympics, both ancient and modern, these events were off limits to women until 1928. Unfortunately, some of the events were too much for the untrained female athletes, and because many collapsed after the end of the 800-meter race, it was banned until 1960.
11. Roberta Gibb was the first woman to run and finish the Boston Marathon in 1966. Of course, she didn't get official credit for it, as women were not allowed to enter the race until 1972, but her wins, in '66, '67, and '68 seriously challenged long-held beliefs about the athletic prowess of women.
12. Virne "Jackie" Mitchell, a pitcher, was the first woman in professional baseball. While women still don't have much of a presence in baseball today, Mitchell proved that it wasn't because they couldn't play. During an exhibition game, she struck out both Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. Her performance probably played a part in baseball commissioner Kenesaw Mountain Landis banning women from the sport later that year.
13. Mary, Queen of Scots is reported to be the first woman to play golf in Scotland. Golf today is still seen as a man's sport, but this powerful and scandalous queen couldn't have cared less. In fact, she even went out to play golf a few days after her husband Lord Darnley's murder.
14. Donald Walker's book, Exercise for Ladies, warns women against horseback riding, because it deforms the lower part of the body. While this book was published in 1837, the views it documented about women doing any kind of exertion or exercise were to hold throughout the Victorian era and beyond.

Culture

Learn more about the role women have played in art, music and literature from these facts.

15. The world's first novel, The Tale of Genji, was published in Japan around A.D. 1000 by female author Murasaki Shikibu. It is still revered today for its masterful observations about court life and has been translated into dozens of languages.
16. In 1921, American novelist Edith Wharton was the first woman to receive a Pulitzer Prize for fiction. She won the award for her novel The Age of Innocence, a story set in upper-class New York during the 1870s.
17. Women often wrote under pen names in times when it was not seen as appropriate for them to contribute to literature. Even some female authors who are highly acclaimed today had to resort to fake names like Jane Austen, the Bronte Sisters, Mary Ann Evans (perhaps better known by her pen name George Eliot), and Louisa May Alcott.
18. In the early years of the blues, from 1910 to 1925, the vast majority of singers were women. It might go against the common idea of just what the blues are or what they should sound like, but new research has found that some of the biggest players in the form of music were actually women.
19. In an era when female painters had to struggle for acceptance, Artemesia Gentileschi was the first female to be accepted by the Accademia di Arte del Disegno in Florence. A follower of the style popularized by Caravaggio, her work is often particularly adept at bringing to life the passion and suffering of mythological and biblical women.

Amazing Women

These amazing women make for some pretty inspiring facts, perfect for Women's History Month.

20. Marie Curie is the only woman to ever win two Nobel Prizes. Her first award was for physics for her work on spontaneous radiation with her husband, with her second being in Chemistry for her studies of radioactivity.
21. Hatshepsut was one of the most powerful women in the ancient world and the one and only female pharaoh in recorded history. She was the fifth pharaoh of the Eighteenth Dynasty of Ancient Egypt after taking over as a supposed regent for her son and reigned for over twenty years. While accounts seem to paint her reign as a favorable one, her images have been defaced on temples and inscriptions as though they meant to wipe her existence from history.
22. Queen Victoria ruled one of the largest empires in the history of the world, at one point controlling land on nearly every continent.This included countries like including India, Australia, Egypt, Kenya, Canada, and British Guiana promoting the saying that the sun never sets on the British empire.
23. Martha Wright Griffiths, an American lawyer and judge, pushed through the Sex Discrimination Act in 1964 as part of the Civil Rights Act. This act has helped protect countless women on the job and in everyday life from discrimination based on their gender.
24. Journalist Nellie Bly put Jules Verne's character Phileas Fogg to shame when she completed an around the world journey in only seventy two days– quite a feat before the invention of the airplane. Bly is also well-known for her expose on mental institutions, a project for which she had to fake psychological illness to gain access to the facilities.
25. Jane Addams was the first woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Because of her work with the Hull House, the public philosopher, writer, leader and suffragist went down as one of the most influential and prolific women in American history.
26. Upon her husband's death, Cherokee leader Nancy Ward took his place in a 1775 battle against the Creeks, and led the Cherokee to victory. After the victory, she became head of the Woman's Council and a member of the Council of Chiefs, playing a key role in social and political changes to the Cherokee nation throughout her life.
27. In 1777, sixteen-year-old Sybil Ludington raced through the night to warn New York patriots that the British were attacking nearby Danbury, CT, where munitions and supplies for the entire region were stored during the heat of the Revolutionary War. While Paul Revere gets all the glory for nighttime rides, her journey took her twice the distance and helped the troops prepare and repel a British attack.
28. Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony spent their lives fighting for women's suffrage, but neither lived long enough to see the Amendment granting them the right to vote. Stanton passed away in 1902, decades before women finally won out, and Anthony in 1906 only a few years later.
29. African-American performer Josephine Baker was working in France during WWII, but not only as a singer, dancer and actress. She was also helping the war movement, smuggling numerous messages to French soldiers. She often hid messages inside her dress or concealed with invisible ink on her sheet music. Baker's work in the war is only part of what makes her such an amazing figure, as she was the first African American female to star in a major motion picture, perform in a concert hall and played a big role in the Civil Rights Movement.

Famous Firsts

Paving the way for generations to come, these women took down barriers to become the first of their kind in a wide range of fields.

30. In 1853 Antoinette Blackwell became the first American woman to be ordained a minister in a recognized denomination. Impressive, considering there are still only a handful of female ministers nationwide today.
31. The earliest recorded female physician was Merit Ptah, a doctor in ancient Egypt who lived around 2700 B.C. Many historians believe she may be the first woman recorded by name in the history of all of the sciences, making her achievement all the more impressive.
32. The first woman to rule a country as an elected leader in the modern era was Sirimavo Bandaranaike of Sri Lanka, who was elected as prime minister of the island nation in 1960 and later re-elected in 1970. She is still one of only a handful of female heads of states, though numbers are growing with female leaders being recently elected in places like Brazil, Switzerland, Costa Rice, Lithuania and Gabon.
33. In 1756, during America's Colonial period, Lydia Chapin Taft became the first woman to legally vote with the consent of the electorate. While all women didn't enjoy this privilege until 1920, Taft was allowed to vote because her husband, a powerful local figure, had passed away right before a major town vote. She was allowed to step in in his stead.
34. The first woman to run for U.S. president was Victoria Woodhull, who campaigned for the office in 1872 under the National Woman's Suffrage Association. While women would not be granted the right to vote by a constitutional amendment for nearly 50 years, there were no laws prohibiting one from running for the chief executive position.
35. The first female governor of a U.S. state was Wyoming governor Nellie Tayloe Ross, elected in 1924. Wyoming was also the first state to give women the right to vote, enacting women's suffrage in 1869, making it a surprising leader in women's rights.
36. The first female member of a president's cabinet was Frances Perkins, Secretary of Labor under FDR. She remained in office for the duration of FDRs terms and helped put together the labor programs needed for the New Deal to succeed.
37. The first person to make the daring attempt to go over Niagara Falls in a wooden barrel was a woman. On October 24, 1901, Annie Edson Taylor, a forty-three-year-old schoolteacher from Michigan plunged over the falls. She survived with only a small gash on her head, but swore to never take them on again.
38. Jeannette Rankin, a Republican from Montana, was the first woman elected to serve in Congress. She was elected in both 1916 and 1940. A lifelong pacifist, she was the only member of Congress to vote against entering WWII.
39. On May 15, 1809, Mary Dixon Kies received the first U.S. patent issued to a woman for inventing a process for weaving straw with silk or thread. Before then, most women inventors didn't bother to patent their new inventions because they couldn't legally own property independent of their husbands. Few could get the support necessary to turn their ideas into a reality.

Historical Happenings

Learn more about women in history from these interesting facts.

40. Wyoming was the first state to grant women the right to vote. It was also the first state to elect a female governor, Nellie Tayloe Ross.
41. The first country to grant women the right to vote in the modern era was New Zealand in 1893. In this same year, Elizabeth Yates also become major of Onehunga, the first ever female mayor anywhere in the British empire.
42. In 1770, a bill proposing that women using makeup should be punished for witchcraft was put forward to the British Parliament. The use of makeup was frowned upon during this period for the effect it would have on men, and women who were thought to be luring men in with scents, makeup, wigs or other cosmetics were thought to be performing the devils' work by inciting lustfulness. Even the Queen took a hard stance on makeup, calling it "impolite."
43. On Nov. 26, 1916 birth control activist Margaret Sanger was arrested for distributing birth control information. While Sanger's views on race are questionable, her efforts to provide women with control over their reproduction were not. Birth control is still a hot issue among many, with some conservative groups condemning it altogether.
44. Think that factory work was always done by men? In fact, during the 19th century, factory workers were primarily young, single women. Men and married women stayed home to work the farm or manage the house.
45. Until 1846, the practice of obstetrics was a female-dominated field. It was then that most medical colleges decided women could not attend and the newly founded American Medical Association barred women. Legislation intended to regulate the medical profession also made it nearly impossible for young women to pursue a medical career. Today, however, obstetrics is a female-dominated field once again.
46. Betsy Ross probably didn't make the first American flag. While she may have been a flagmaker, patriot and businesswoman of note, there is little evidence to suggest that Betsy Ross actually made the first flag. In fact, the first retellings of this story didn't happen until years after her death.

Innovative Women

These women came up with new and innovative ideas well worth reading about.

47. In 1903, Mary Anderson was granted a patent for the windshield wiper. It would become standard equipment on cars by 1916. She isn't alone in her inventiveness. Women have also invented such things as industrial lathes, white out, bras, non-reflective glass, the dishwasher, disposable diapers, petroleum refining methods and much, much more.
48. Amelia Jenks Bloomer didn't invent the bloomer, but she helped popularize this new article of clothing in the early 1850's, which now bears her name, that would help women be more active and free in their movement. Unfortunately, the style was much ridiculed and Bloomer had to revert to traditional dresses by 1859, but she remained an active member of suffrage movements throughout her life.
49. 40s movie actress, Hedy Lamarr wasn't just a pretty face, she was also an inventor. Hoping to find a way to contribute to the war effort during World War II, Lamarr developed a radio-controlled torpedo device which used "frequency hopping" to prevent the signals from the torpedoes from being jammed. While the technology wasn't adopted for WWII, it was used in subsequent conflicts.
50. Susan Kare developed most of the interface elements for Apple Macintosh. You might not think that women have played a huge role in the development of computer technology, but in this case you'd be wrong. Kare helped develop the bulk of those little icons early Mac users clicked on every day. Kare left Apple in the 80's, and is still working with innovating new technologies and improving design.

40 Best Blogs for Following the Middle East

February 24th, 2011

What happens around the world impacts our lives here in the US. Conflicts, human rights violations, and the involvement of our troops are issues that are important to many educated Americans. The Middle East is involved in so many issues that matter to the US and the world, and you can keep up with them by following these blogs.

1. The Angry Arab: The Angry Arab shares news and information on politics, war, the Middle East, and more.
2. War is Boring: War is Boring offers illustrations and more about the Middle East and beyond.
3. The Elder of Ziyon: EoZ shares problems and challenges for the Middle East.
4. Gaza Mom: Gaza Mom's blog is all about Palestine, politics, and even motherhood.
5. Al Jazeera Middle East Blog: Al Jazeera shares news about the Middle East on this blog.
6. Middle East Progress: Follow the progress in the Middle East on this blog.
7. The Elders: These leaders, brought together by Nelson Mandela, share their influence and experience in the Middle East.
8. Middle East Diary: Shashank Bengali is a correspondent for McClatchy Newspapers on assignment in Baghdad and Cairo.
9. The Middle East Blog: The Middle East Blog shares life in the hottest and holiest region in the world.
10. Informed Comment: Informed Comment has thoughts on the Middle East, history, and religion.
11. Musings on Iraq: Musings on Iraq has Iraq news, politics, economics, and society.
12. Free Middle East Blog: Get updates on freedom in the Middle East on FME.
13. Baheyya: Baheyya shares Egypt analysis and whimsy.
14. Iraq Today: Iraq Today has war news and more.
15. Middle East Post: Middle East Post discusses and analyzes Middle East political issues.
16. Talisman Gate: Talisman Gate offers unconventional thinking about the Middle East from Nibras Kazimi.
17. Middle East: The Middle East blog from Foreign Policy shares news and more from the Middle East.
18. Jihadica: Jihadica works to document the global Jihad.
19. Iraqi American Mojo: The Iraqi American Mojo writes about peace and justice in the world.
20. Marc Lynch: This associate professor of political science and international affairs covers foreign policy in the Middle East.
21. The Sudanese Optimist: The Sudanese Optimist discusses Sudan with sarcasm, irony, and controversy.
22. The Moor Next Door: The Moor Next Door writes on Maghreb affairs, geopolitics, and international relations.
23. The AfPak Channel: Foreign Policy's channel discusses the war for South Asia.
24. The Sudanese Thinker: Drima Abu Hamdan updates on Sudan and more.
25. Mideast Youth: Mideast Youth shares forward thinking for the Middle East.
26. Inside Iraq: This blog is updated by Iraqi journalists in Baghdad and outlying provinces.
27. Middle East Institute: The Middle East Institute blog puts Middle Eastern events in cultural and historical context.
28. Inside the Middle East: CNN's journalists share news and more from the Middle East on this blog.
29. At War: At War offers notes from the front lines of the US at war.
30. The Arabist: The Arabist offers insight on Arab politics and culture.
31. Afghanistan Conflict Monitor: The Afghanistan Conflict Monitor reports on happenings in Afghanistan and beyond.
32. Israellycool: Israellycool has news from Israel and the Middle East.
33. Michael Totten: Michael Totten reports on foreign policy, the Middle East, Balkans, and the Caucasus.
34. Afghanistan Crossroads: Find news from the ground in Afghanistan on Afghanistan Crossroads.
35. Promised Land: Promised Land has news and opinion from Israel.
36. All Things Pakistan: Stay on top of all things Pakistan on this blog.
37. Registan: Registan covers all Central Asian news.
38. Carpetblogger: Carpetblogger shares commentary from Constantinople.
39. Sandbox: Martin Kramer's blog discusses policy in the Middle East.
40. Desertpeace: Keep up with news and opinion from the desert on Desertpeace.

50 Best Blogs for Teach for America Advice

February 16th, 2011

After graduation, many budding educators turn to the Teach for America program and rack up needed resume experience while still contributing to the community. It's not a perfect arrangement by any means, but a goodly number of participants walk away with valuable lessons about the nation's struggling public school system and what needs doing to save it. Anyone considering or just beginning a stint in TFA will probably find the following selection of blogs — picked for the sake of content diversity rather than any one subject — valuable reads to assist them on their journeys. However, this does not discount the contributions and voices from other resources, either.

College and Test Prep

1. The Answer: Get inspiration from Houston's YES Prep program, which sends 100% of enrolled students to four-year colleges and universities.

2. Kelly's Test Prep Blog: Stay on top of tips and news regarding standardized testing and how to best prepare students for various exams at the official About.com portal.

3. The Insider's Guide to Admissions: Get students ready for entrance exams and other important tests at this resource catering to the college-bound.

4. Rethinking Admissions: From Wake Forest University comes an indispensable read for TFA educators hoping to grant their students a better shot at entering college or university.

5. Planning and Preparing for College (Scholarships, Internships, Etc): Though largely aimed at students and parents, teachers should certainly read over this incredible blog for comprehensive information on getting high schoolers reader to enter and pay for their higher education opportunities.

6. College Scholarships.org Blog: Point students towards the wonderfully detailed College Scholarships.org, which has been connecting those pursuing degrees with Financial Aid, grants and other moneys.

7. Skipping Breakfast: Alleyoop.com mainly provides information for college-bound high schoolers, but elementary and middle school kids pursuing academic success still have plenty of cool activities to explore as well.

8. FinancialAidNews.com: Presented by the Student Loan Network, FinancialAidNews.com delivers exactly what its name entails — the latest stories impacting how students in need of financial assistance pay for their degrees.

9. Test Prep Success: Introduce students to these very accessible tips and tricks for performing admirably on the SAT and ACT exams.

10. The Choice: The New York Times devotes some of its webspace to helping students, parents and teachers make the right choices when it comes to paying for and choosing the right college or university.

Education Advice

11. Jerry's Special Education Blog: This About.com portal provides special education teachers with tips and tricks to improve their classrooms — not to mention recent news stories impacting both them and their students.

12. Teachers at Risk: Highly regarded special education teacher Elona Hartjes opens up about the different methods and strategies that earned her some incredibly admirable awards and distinctions.

13. TeacherLingo Blogs: TFA educators — no matter their grade level – looking for all sorts of advice not directly related to their program will find this blog series incredibly useful.

14. It's Not All Flowers and Sausages: All teachers will experience some sort of drama, either with students, parents coworkers or administrators. The blogger behind the Ms. Mimi alias needs a place to rant, offering up contemporaries a forum to do so as well.

15. Classroom Solutions: Scholastic's team of bloggers cover almost everything both novice and seasoned teachers need to know about engaging students.

16. Learning is Messy – Blog: Brian Crosby works with at-risk students, incorporating technology into his classroom in extremely creative, effective ways.

17. Regurgitated Alpha Bits: Frustrated TFA teachers who work with elementary school students can find solace in this anonymous educator's stories, perhaps walking away with a few lessons on handling the stress.

18. The Edublogs Directory: Browse this massive listing of educational blogs covering a wonderfully huge amount of subjects and grade levels. There's something here for every visitor.

19. Cool Cat Teacher Blog: Another excellent resource offering plenty to pique the interest of many different kinds of teachers, with some great suggestions on using technology and other engaging activities.

20. Kenneth's ESL Blog: Kenneth Beare of About.com specializes in dishing out advice, opinions and news to ESL instructors or those with ESL students.

Education Policy and Reform

21. Eduwonk.com: Andrew J. Rotherham and Bellweather Education Partners blog about the latest research and opinions related to P-20 schooling.

22. Flypaper: Presented by Fordham University, this essential resource looks into education policies that may prove valuable to teachers and administrators alike.

23. The Jose Vilson: All educators need to bookmark the blog of education activist Jose Vilson, who shares some incredible research, insight and opinions regarding the latest relevant issues.

24. The EDifier: Check out this read by the Center for Public Education for news and updates regarding a broad spectrum of teaching topics.

25. edReformer: As the title implies, edReformer strives to provide news and opinions regarding the improvement of public schools across the country — with special attention paid to addressing inequality problems.

26. Blogs at Education Week: Read both news and opinions from a wonderfully broad selection of teachers, administrators and other education professionals at these thoroughly useful blogs.

27. Special Education Law Blog: Unfortunately, special education students and teachers alike oftentimes find their needs ignored. But this incredibly helpful resource will keep them abreast of the latest policies affecting them.

28. Dropout Nation: RiShawn Biddle passionately advocates for education reform, particularly when it comes to keeping students in class.

29. Connected Principals: Take a look at education reform, policy, practice and strategies from an administrative perspective, courtesy of the many bloggers represented at Connected Principals.

30. The GreatSchools Blog: Parents play an integral role in their children's education, and the GreatSchools nonprofit hopes to better engage them. Teachers hoping to involve moms and dads in the process would do well to search for both news and tips here.

TFA Teachers

31. Gary Rubenstein's TFA Blog: This Houston-based math teacher ruminates on his methods and delivers commentary on the TFA program and general education policy and administration issues.

32. ABCDE: A Blog Covering DC Education is exactly what the title states — a TFA resource focusing on the program's presence and practices in the nation's capitol.

33. mathinaz: TFA personnel assigned to teach middle school math may find plenty of helpful hints and commentary from this Phoenix-based educator.

34. Learning on the River: Charming high school English teacher William details his experience working as a TFA instructor on the Mississippi Delta.

35. Drinking the Kool-Aid: Straight from San Antonio comes provocative insights regarding the many educational issues TFA workers may face.

36. Milty Goes to Connecticut: While Milty Goes to Connecticut doesn't update as frequently as some of the other TFA blogs, it still provides valuable insight for those considering the program.

37. The wonderer finds his home: Another blog that may not update much, but may pique the interest of potential TFA educators all the same.

38. …I will be their voice…: Ashleigh Helmick is completely new to the TFA blogs, and she eagerly discusses her assignment teaching pre-kindergarten in Tulsa. An essential read for fledgling teachers looking for a kindred spirit.

39. Facing La Frontera: Read all about the unique challenges that present themselves in the educational institutions meandering along the Rio Grande Valley.

40. Z in the Mississippi ?: In spite of its relatively slow update schedule, this blog by a high school English teacher with TFA still contains stories and advice for hopeful or new program participants.

Urban Schools

41. An Urban Teacher's Education: A Bronx schoolteacher focusing on new Latin American immigrants keeps readers updated on the latest news, issues and experiences from the front lines of urban education.

42. NYC Educator: Even urban educators who don't live in New York can still find inspiration from this pair of opinionated bloggers.

43. Perdido Street School: Politics, inner city schooling, education policy and plenty more form the content of this provocative and wholly necessary resource.

44. South Bronx School: Another New York-based read that's still valuable to other urban educators looking for a few strategies and tips for navigating the classroom and the political sphere.

45. Gotham Schools: More policy, opinions and strategies from what seems to be one of the most vocal cities participating in the education blogosphere.

46. Technology in Teaching: This blog may emphasize science and using technology effectively in the classroom, but it still comes from an educator who does so in an urban setting.

47. Urban Teacher Residency United Blog: UTRU strives to keep inner city teachers in the classrooms by offering them the training and resources necessary to keep their students engaged and interested in their education.

48. UCO: Urban Teacher Preparation Academy: Individuals participating in the University of Oklahoma's Urban Teacher Preparation Program blog about their individual learning experiences, though update schedules vary from resource to resource.

49. Linking and Thinking on Education: Joanne Jacobs discusses education policy and practice, but her most provocative postings are almost always about urban, inner city and charter schools.

50. Catalyst Chicago: Catalyst Chicago emphasizes urban education issues in the Windy City, but even then many of its stories certainly have applicability elsewhere.

11 Surprising Celebs Who Went to Law School

February 14th, 2011

By Jamie Davis

Elle Woods proved that law students don't all have to be "ugly and boring and serious." But even before Legally Blonde, some of these celebrities were hitting the books in prestigious law libraries before turning to exciting careers in TV, film, and sports. Keep reading for 11 surprising celebrities who went to law school (note: they didn't all graduate), despite their previous or ultimate career choices.

1. Jerry Springer: For someone who turned daytime TV talk shows into an often-violent and arguably obscene farce, it's hard to imagine him hard at work in law school. But Jerry Springer graduated from the prestigious Northwestern University School of Law in 1968, and gave the commencement address in 2008.
2. Julian McMahon: Actor Julian McMahon — who starred in Charmed, Nip/Tuck and films like Fantastic Four, was born into a more serious type of family — his father was Prime Minister of Australia in the 1970s. McMahon attended the University of Sydney law school, although he dropped out to star in an Aussie primetime TV show called The Power, the Passion.
3. Kevin Hagen: Probably best known for his role on Little House on the Prairie, actor Kevin Hagen also appeared on many iconic TV shows in the 1950s and 60s, like Mission: Impossible, Gunsmoke, Perry Mason and Knots Landing. Well-educated before he got into acting, Hagen attended Oregon State University, the University of Southern California, and a year at UCLA law before working for the U.S. State Department in West Germany. He turned to acting at age 27.
4. Jerry O'Connell: The guy who played a belching college boy in Can't Hardly Wait is off to law school. Jerry O'Connell — who also has some more respective roles under his belt — enrolled in Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles in 2009. Tired of dad duty as wife Rebecca Romijn worked on her TV show, O'Connell just figured it was time to find something to do.
5. Gabriel Garcia Marquez: Author of painfully insightful and lyrical books like One Hundred Years of Solitude, Gabriel Garcia Marquez first studied law. He attended the University of Cartagena and Bogota's National University before leaving to pursue a career in journalism.
6. Justin Deaber: MTV's The Real World: Hawaii was one of the most popular, dramatic and rambunctious seasons of the reality show. Ruthie had to go to rehab, Amaya was a bit two-faced, Kaia didn't believe in shirts, and Justin Deabler was exceedingly judgmental. At the time, he was a student at Harvard Law, and ended up leaving the house. We thought Harvard law kids were supposed to be more mature.
7. Hill Harper: Award-winning TV actor Hill Harper has impressed audiences and critics with his performances on shows like CSI: NY. And it might just be his background in law that's helped him succeed on the police drama. Harper graduated cum laude from Harvard Law School, and also has a Master of Public Administration degree from the same school.
8. Marv Levy: Legendary football coach — and current motivational speaker — Marv Levy was a master athlete in college. After graduation, he enrolled in law school, but dropped out three weeks later to work as an assistant football coach at Iowa's Coe College.
9. Vince Lombardi: Vince Lombardi also picked football over the legal profession, but not without giving law school a try. The coach who led the Packers to five NFL championships graduated magna cum laude from Fordham University (where he was also a football star) — took night classes at law school while working in finance during the day. He quit both to teach high school football in New Jersey and eventually returned to his alma mater in 1947 to coach.
10. Samuel S. Hinds: One of the most successful actors in the 1930s and 40s, Samuel S. Hinds is best known today for playing Jimmy Stewart's dad — Peter Bailey — in It's a Wonderful Life. But before racking up roles in 214 films, Hinds graduated from Harvard Law School and actually worked as a lawyer until he turned to acting at the age of 54.
11. Greg Raymer: Poker champ Greg Raymer won the main event at the 2004 World Series of Poker, and all that strategy and reasoning probably paid off in law school, too. Raymer graduated with a master's degree in biochemistry from the University of Minnesota and also graduated from the University of Minnesota Law School, working as a patent lawyer.