Just a quick list of 3 things I'd really like to learn this year...
1. How to create a PDF file. I think it's easy, but I've never done it, so we'll see. It's best to have your resume in a PDF so when you send it electronically, the formatting doesn't get all wonky.
2. Some basic --> advanced graphic design-like skills. You know, like putting frames around pictures, decorative frames preferably, not just a black border. Well, to be entirely honestly, I'd like to be an expert in graphic design, but I'm not sure that's a realistic goal (for this year anyway). I wish I knew how to create neat digital elements for use in scrapbooking. That would be an ultimate work-from-home job.
3. Some basic Microsoft Access & Publisher skills, as well as Dreamweaver. I think these could come in quite handy over time. My workplace offers free on-line classes for these and I've signed up for them. I can do them anytime, but I'm thinking July will be the best time, as I'll only have graduate class to worry about then.
15 comments:
Actually, creating a PDF file isn't too hard. If you really want to know more, just e-mail me.
Yeah, graphic design is a very valuable tool. You could learn it yourself, like I did, by playing around with the HTML codes. It'll take a while but it's like a big puzzle. Once you figure out what piece goes where... you're set, really.
When you're really good at it, you could start writing your own codes from scratch and do all kinds of nonsense for your site.
Or... you could just pay someone to do it all for you?
Wow! that is too much for me. I only learn things for the most part out of emergency. This blog thing was easy. Maybe when my children leave the nest, I can ponder tackling a fun computer class. I sort of need to learn spanish since I teach. It is a little big of an emergency.
Most word type programs allow you to save a file as PDF, so I'd suggest looking there first.
I agree with K. Michel, graphic design is a valuable tool and it just takes some patience, a lot of reading and lots of practice.
Good goals... good luck.
Very ambitious... good for you and good luck!
http://www.primopdf.com/
Do it up! Sooooooo easy to use.
Red- thanks for the link!!!
Good idea~learning things like this is always a good way to be more marketable, which will definitely come in handy during this economic downturn...just be sure you keep practicing with those programs, because the skills you learn escape your brain quickly if they're not used!
Gidget-not sure if you select the option for follow up comments, but wanted to let you know that the "post a comment" on your blog doesn't work. I have tried numerous times. Couldn't find an email link to let you know either.
Good for you! All of those ideas are great, and you'll be glad you did them ~ Allison
PDF conversion used to leave me in tears until I updated from Adobe reader. Silly me.
Learning new things is always fun. Since the last 3 years I have made it a point to learn something new in summer. Something that might now have any practical value but which might relax me and make me feel good. This year my plan is to take some music lessons. I admire pianists and guitarists. I want to play these instruments but just don't know how. Lets hope this year I will do something about it. Good luck for your ambitions and school.
About 10 years ago, I worked in a frame store and learned all about matting and how to match painting to frames and mats. Not too useful, but it was fun. Graphic Design however, is way over my head. Way too much math involved for me. However, you have a good list here. PDF is pretty easy and very useful!
I can help with your 1 and 2:
1. If you have the new Word (2007), you can simply save any document as a PDF by just clicking on "Save as" and then choose "PDF" as the file type.
2. Go to Picnik.com. Their software is web-based and free! They make putting frames on your photos super easy, as well as words and all sorts of other neat stuff. I use them all the time for stuff on my blog. I'd be lost without it!
:)
First I would like to say I like your blog and it's the first one I read in the morning. So when I came to this post I just had to make a comment. You have some really good ideas and I didn't know a resume is best in PDF format(thanks for the tip).
The only thing I would like to learn this year is how to play golf. Mostly for the exercise and the fresh air.
I look forward to reading all future post so keep up the good work.
If I have three, I can't think of them right now, but one thing on my list of things to learn is how to freeze foods. Raw meats are easy but I would love to be able to freeze fresh veggies or leftovers or meals ready to pop into the oven. And I know it's not as easy as just throwing it into a container & popping it in the freezer. Some foods require certain prep. Some recipes require you stop at a certain point & then you finish when you're going to actually cook it. And some foods just don't freeze well at all ever. I need a food freezing tutorial!
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