Nozipho Nkabinde is unstoppable. While serving as fundraising director of her GK chapter at the University of Pretoria and majoring in accounting and auditing, she transformed a simple school book drive into a full-fledged multi-year library project. Nozipho, a servant leader inspired by Michelle Obama […]
Make sure you are up to date the latest honor society membership news with Golden Key. Get all the latest Golden Key International Honour Society scholarship deadlines, event updates, member stories, and career advice right here. Here are the top 5 stories you need to […]
Whether you’re a student, recent graduate or full-time employee, you’re probably trying to maximize your productivity. No matter where you’re at in your professional journey, there are several ways to be more productive in your day to day activities.
Although it might seem impossible to get enough rest as a student, your sleep schedule is extremely important to your productivity levels. When you’re tired, it’s harder to stay focused on your tasks. Of course, you’ll also feel more energized, be in a better mood and sharpen your memory with enough sleep.
While this might sound like a nagging reminder from a parent, making your bed first thing in the morning sets the tone for the rest of the day. Many professionals, from Navy SEALs to CEOs recommend this simple step. Not only will you feel accomplished, but your room will also be neat and ready for you to start the day. This is one of the easiest ways to be more productive. Making your bed in the morning starts a chain reaction of other productive habits.
The average young professional looks at their phone nearly 75 times a day. Think of all the productivity lost during that time! Experts suggest combating this by making the display gray scale. Without the bright lights and colors of your normal screen, you’ll feel less compelled to pick it up and spend ten minutes scrolling through Instagram.
You don’t have to be an obsessive list maker to use them to your advantage. Lists are an excellent way to keep track of a busy schedule or intensive project. Consider making a weekly list to keep yourself on top of to-dos, and check the list when you’re wondering what to do. Writing down your tasks is also a good way to organize your thoughts and set a clear path forward.
Organization is the key to success. You’ve undoubtedly heard this before from parents, professors or mentors. Psychological studies have shown that piles of clutter accumulating in your room or office can cause you to feel overwhelmed and stressed. When it comes to your productive space, stick to the essentials and keep it to a minimum.
It’s no secret that exercise boosts productivity. Making it a part of your regular routine will help increase energy levels and focus during your day. This isn’t just something your gym teacher dreamed up, it’s science. Exercise produces endorphins in your brain, helping you to feel better throughout the day. If you don’t have time for a full cardio session, consider taking a walk during your lunch break, or opting to take the stairs instead of the elevator.
Notifications are a major distraction from productivity. Whether it’s a Facebook notification, a pop-up on your computer from Gmail or a message from your bank, it pulls your attention away from the tasks at hand. Turning off these non-essential notifications is quite simple, and will make a drastic difference in the amount of time you spend on social media and other platforms.
This article was originally published by Golden Key partners The Intern Group. You can read the full article here: https://www.theinterngroup.com/our-blog/7-ways-to-be-more-productive/
The Intern Group is an award-winning, social enterprise that takes top applicants and significantly improves their skills and employability via their international internship programs. Their global team understands deeply how important international professional experience is in today’s job market. They are a global leader in the international internship area, one of the fastest growing segments of the international education industry.
Summer is a glorious time of year, full of exciting possibilities. It’s time for a much-needed break, but also an opportunity to think ahead, assess your options, and prepare for the future. But it’s easy to let the weeks slip away. So how can you […]
Building a successful career is hard. There are so many decisions to make. Countless opportunities. Endless questions to ask. One of the biggest ones that many Golden Key members consider is: should I do an international internship? While it’s not the right choice for everyone, […]
It’s such an exciting time for Golden Key. Lots of our amazing members have recently enjoyed the well-deserved rewards of graduation day. We know you’ve all worked incredibly hard and showed such dedication to your studies–and we’re SO proud of you!
We’re also delighted to welcome lots of new members to Golden Key. And we’re passionate about creating an inspiring environment that supports you as you move through your studies and into your career.
We’re always looking for ways to do better and offer you more! So we’ve put together a little survey to help us understand more about why you joined Golden Key and how we can help you achieve your goals.
If you’re a recently joined member of Golden Key, we’d LOVE it if you could take five minutes to take the survey below:
With over 2 million inspiring members and growing strong, Golden Key is the world’s leading international honor society. Our amazing members are doing incredible things and changing the world–and we’d love you to be part of it! When you join Golden Key you become part of a vast international network of high achievers, and gain access to a wide range of awards, scholarshipsand special benefits thanks to our terrific partners.
Take a flying leap toward your future with Golden Key for #MarchMania We CAN’T Keep Calm. It’s #MarchMania! It’s no secret that #MarchMadness is about to be unleashed across our nation’s colleges and universities. We’re joining in the excitement with our very own #MarchMania. It’s […]
The Chicago Leadership Summit is just days away. Are you pumped? So are we! Here are 3 ways to prepare for the best time of your life. 1. Download our exclusive Summit app for real-time info on workshops, speakers, panels and more. (In your app store, […]
We’ll be in Downtown Chicago this weekend for the Golden Key Leadership Summit – and we’d love to see you there!
Join us to support the Boys and Girls Clubs, take part in powerful workshops and enjoy a beautiful night out at our Golden Key Gala Dinner. And the best part is, you’ll meet amazing Golden Key members – just like you – from around the world.
Your discounted ticket includes:
The 2019 Chicago Leadership Summit won’t be the same without you. Join us!
The Golden Key Leadership Summit
Saturday, February 16
9:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Embassy Suites
Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile
We hope to see you there.
How’s 2019 going so far? Here’s how to make it even better. You’re not just an exceptional high performer. You’re a powerhouse. Being at the top takes everything you’ve got and more. Sure, you strive for balance in your studies, your chapter activity, and your […]
Look, we know you’re well qualified to win a Golden Key Scholarship, and you know the benefits are huge. You’d be crazy to miss out! Here’s how to make sure you don’t! Here are 3 simple steps you must take before Dec. 15 if you […]
It’s that time of year! The time of year when we get lots of questions about the Golden Key Scholarships. Why? Because the scholarship deadline for members is quickly approaching!
Be sure to get your scholarship applications in by 15 December 2018!
Not yet a member? Well, get on it! You need to be a member to apply! Join now.
Now, about those questions! Here are the questions we get asked all the time–along with our answers.
What scholarships are available?
Golden Key offers hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships each year. To date Golden Key has granted over $12,500,000. Click here for a complete list of scholarships available to you.
Who is eligible to apply?*
Only Golden Key Members are eligible to apply.
*Region specific ‘Asia-Pacific‘ scholarships are available to Asia-Pacific chapter members only. Queries should be directed to apac@goldenkey.org.
When can I apply?
The deadline dates vary by program. Dates for each program can be found here. Scholarships are added throughout the year, so check the listing periodically.
How can I apply?
Follow the link provided on the website to access the application and create an account or log in using your email address and password.
Are the application deadlines strict deadlines?
Yes. All scholarship applications must be submitted by the indicated postmark or application deadline. The deadline for each scholarship is listed directly to the right of the scholarship name.
Can I apply for more than one scholarship?
Yes. Golden Key members can apply for any number of scholarships each year as long as the requirements for each scholarship are met. Please review the specific scholarship guidelines for additional requirements and eligibility details.
Can I submit one application form for multiple scholarships?
No. You must fill out the application for each scholarship/award you would like to apply for.
Do I have to be an active member of my Golden Key chapter to apply for a scholarship?
Not in all cases. Some of the scholarships do factor Golden Key involvement as a selection criterion.
Do I have to be in a specific major field of study/faculty to apply for a Golden Key scholarship?
No. Golden Key scholarships are available to Golden Key members of any major field of study/faculty. The achievement awards represent certain fields of study; however, any Golden Key member can apply for these as well.
Are scholarships given at each local chapter?
In the USA/Canada, each local chapter will annually award at least one scholarship to a chapter member. These scholarships are called the Golden Key Chapter Scholarships. Local chapter leadership chooses the scholarship recipients. Factors for selection include academic accomplishments, leadership in collegiate activities and participation in extracurricular activities (including Golden Key participation, if any, work and family commitments and community service). Please contact your chapter leadership or your regional office for more information.
When does the online application process close?
All applications must be submitted online by 11:59pm CST on the deadline date. For example, if the scholarship deadline date is 1 October 2018, your application must be submitted by 11:59pm CST on 1 October 2018.
How and when will I receive notification?
Note: Your email address will only be used to communicate with you about your scholarship applications. We will not provide your email address to any third parties. Decisions of the selection committees are final and are not subject to appeal. No application feedback will be given.
Where and when should I send my supporting documents?
Upload your required documents online. If you do not follow the instructions exactly, your application may not be considered. Your submission must be complete by the stated deadline.
How do I know if my application is complete?
What if I need to make changes to my application?
How will I find out the results of a scholarship?
Can I receive feedback on my application if I do not win?
No. Winners are selected by an impartial selection committee comprised of experienced educators and professionals. Decisions of the selection committees are final and are not subject to appeal. Upon receipt, the application becomes the property of the scholarship sponsor, and of International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc., the administrator of the scholarship program, and items submitted will not be returned.
Are scholarships taxable?
Tax laws vary by country. For example, in the United States, scholarship funds used exclusively for the payment of tuition or textbooks are normally not taxable. The scholarship recipient is responsible for taxes, if any, that may be assessed against your scholarship award. We recommend consulting your tax advisor for more guidance.
Can applications be faxed or mailed to ISTS?
No. All applications for scholarships and awards using the online application process from ISTS must be submitted online. Faxed or mailed applications will not be accepted.
Program Administration
To assure complete impartiality in selection of winners and to maintain a high level of professionalism, International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc., a firm that specializes in managing sponsored scholarship programs, administers the program.
Questions
For additional information regarding the scholarship program, please contact ISTS by email at info@applyists.com. When emailing please include the name of the scholarship program or sponsor. For questions regarding scholarships and awards that do not require an online application through ISTS, please contact awards@goldenkey.org.
PLEASE NOTE: Golden Key HQ will notify Scholarship winners via email 90-120 days after the deadline date. After the winners have been notified and their eligibility has been verified, non-winners will also receive an email notification from ISTS.
Have you been invited to join Golden Key International Honour Society? Or would you like to join?
As a part of Golden Key’s SPARK a Change initiative, Golden Key has partnered with EF Tours to offer SPARK Abroad–international service-learning tours to serve at-risk youth through literacy, education and real-world preparedness. SPARK Abroad trips allow attendees to experience engaging site explorations while working […]
Ather Sharif stands out as a beacon of dedication and innovation in a world where academic achievement and social impact often intersect. A distinguished Golden Key International Honour Society member, Ather has been awarded the prestigious 2023 Golden Key Graduate Scholar Award. This honor acknowledges his relentless pursuit of academic excellence and his commitment to making the world a better place for disabled individuals.
The Golden Key Graduate Scholar Award is the premier scholarship the Golden Key International Honour Society offers. It is designed to support post-baccalaureate study at accredited universities globally. This scholarship recognizes its members’ exceptional accomplishments and potential, providing them with the resources to further their education and impact.
Ather Sharif’s journey is one of perseverance and passion. Born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan, Ather moved to the United States to pursue higher education. He has since made Philadelphia his home, where he continues to push the boundaries of research in digital accessibility for disabled individuals. His work aims to create a more inclusive digital environment, reflecting his belief that accessibility is a fundamental right.
In his personal statement upon receiving the award, Ather expressed profound gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose:
“Receiving this award is not just a recognition of my passion and hard work in aspiring to make this world a better place for disabled people but also a recognition of how crucial this goal is. It is reassuring and encouraging to see organizations such as the Golden Key Honour Society demonstrate their commitment to fostering opportunities to build a more inclusive global society.”
Ather’s success is not solely his own; it is also a testament to the invaluable support and guidance he has received from his mentors. He specifically thanked his advisor, Jacob Wobbrock, and mentor, Richard Ladner, for their unwavering encouragement and support:
“I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude toward my advisor, Jacob Wobbrock, and mentor, Richard Ladner, both of whom have consistently pushed me to achieve academic excellence and use my knowledge and platform to make a difference in this world—a core value of the Golden Key Honour Society.”
Their mentorship has played a crucial role in shaping Ather’s academic journey and his mission to enhance digital access for disabled people.
Ather’s recognition by the Golden Key International Honour Society inspires many, particularly international graduate students and those with disabilities. His story is a powerful reminder that with determination, support, and the right opportunities, one can overcome obstacles and achieve great things:
“This award serves as a beacon of hope for international graduate students, particularly those with disabilities, to continue pursuing their higher education goals with the comfort that organizations, such as the Golden Key Honour Society, are there to support them in their journey.”
With the Golden Key Graduate Scholar Award, Ather Sharif is poised to further his research and advocacy work. This scholarship will enable him to break barriers and create a more accessible world. Ather’s dedication to his cause exemplifies the core values of the Golden Key Honour Society, and his achievements underscore the importance of fostering inclusivity in all aspects of society.
Ather Sharif’s receipt of the 2023 Golden Key Graduate Scholar Award is a testament to his hard work, vision, and impactful contributions toward a more inclusive digital landscape. As he continues his journey, we look forward to seeing the positive changes he will undoubtedly bring to the world.
We are thrilled to announce Logan Thornton as the 2023 Golden Key Undergraduate Achievement Award recipient! This prestigious honor recognizes Logan’s outstanding accomplishments and dedication throughout his undergraduate career at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss). About the Undergraduate Achievement Award The Golden Key Undergraduate […]
We’re super excited to share some amazing news: Michael Shamblin has just been named the 2023 Golden Key Professional Development Award winner! This big win really highlights the awesome support Golden Key International Honour Society provides for lifelong learning and growth. About Michael Shamblin Michael […]
The Golden Key Academy is not just a platform; it’s a catalyst for transformation. As an integral part of the Golden Key International Honour Society, the Academy offers a unique blend of resources, programs, and opportunities designed to elevate its members’ personal and professional lives. By focusing on career development, workplace skills, and personal growth, the Golden Key Academy is a beacon of learning and advancement in today’s competitive world.
Empowering Through Education
At the heart of the Golden Key Academy is a commitment to providing unparalleled educational resources to its members. The platform offers a vast library of videos, articles, and free weekly webinars covering various topics. These resources are crafted to enhance members’ knowledge and equip them with the practical skills necessary for success both in and out of the workplace.
Career Development Opportunities
One of the most impactful aspects of the Academy is its focus on career development. In today’s job market, standing out from the crowd is essential. Golden Key Academy provides members exclusive access to career advice, resume-building workshops, interview preparation sessions, and networking strategies crucial for career advancement. Additionally, the Academy often features insights from industry leaders, offering members direct access to expert advice and trends.
Building a Global Network
Networking is vital in building a successful career, and the Golden Key Academy fosters this by connecting members with a global community of like-minded professionals. Through the Academy’s platform, members can interact with other high achievers worldwide, sharing experiences, collaborating on projects, and forming lifelong professional relationships. This global network enhances professional opportunities and enriches members’ cultural perspectives and international understanding.
Scholarships
Further enhancing the value of the Golden Key Academy are the numerous scholarships and grants exclusively available to its members. These financial supports are designed to relieve some economic pressures associated with higher education and continuing professional development. By investing in its members’ education, the Academy helps them focus more on their studies and professional growth without financial constraints.
Leadership and Service
Leadership development is another cornerstone of the Golden Key Academy. The platform encourages members to take on leadership roles within the society, whether organizing events, leading projects or representing their chapters in various capacities. These opportunities bolster members’ resumes and help develop essential leadership skills such as strategic thinking, public speaking, and team management.
Personal Growth and Lifelong Learning
The Golden Key Academy promotes lifelong learning, encouraging members to continually seek knowledge and personal growth. With resources that support everything from mental health to financial literacy, the Academy provides a holistic approach to personal development. This commitment ensures that members are well-rounded individuals who can contribute to their professions and lead fulfilling lives.
The Golden Key Academy is more than an educational platform—it’s a life-changing experience. By providing education, career support, networking opportunities, financial aid, and leadership development, the Academy plays a pivotal role in transforming the lives of its members. For anyone serious about making significant personal and professional advancements, the Golden Key Academy is a golden opportunity to unlock their potential and achieve their dreams. In the academic and professional development landscape, the Golden Key Academy is truly a game-changer, empowering members to meet and exceed their aspirations.
Being a Golden Key International Honour Society member is more than just a title or a line on a resume; it represents a commitment to excellence, a dedication to leadership, and a passion for service. As the world’s largest international collegiate honor society, Golden Key […]
Golden Key International Honour Society stands as a beacon of excellence in the academic world, offering its members unparalleled opportunities for growth, scholarship, and community engagement. Joining this prestigious community recognizes your hard work and academic success. It opens doors to a world of possibilities […]
There is no question that there has been a dynamic shift in the job market since 2020, with businesses quickly adapting to a new landscape. Many of the changes have been positive, but others have presented significant challenges, such as grads needing more soft skills and a reluctance to work on-site, requiring new methods of recruiting graduates into the workforce.
There are a lot of benefits to hiring graduates, such as their enthusiasm, innovative ideas, and connection to a different generation. So, competition is fierce between companies wanting to snap up the best talent.
Here are some ways your business can connect and engage with top talent in today’s market:
So, use your employees to help recruit new graduates to the business through a referral rewards program, meaningful testimonials, ideally in video format, inviting recent grads to speak at information sessions, and encouraging employees to endorse your business online, such as on their Linked In profiles.
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Golden Key is one of the world’s oldest honors societies, with over 2.4 million members globally. Our members have all finished in the top 15% of their degrees and belong to an engaged online community continually looking for ways to grow their skills and seeking new opportunities to develop professionally and personally. www.goldenkey.org
by Julia Brown February 14, 2023 The current president of Texas Southern University’s Golden Key chapter has four degrees under her belt, maintains an excellent GPA, and has attended three different colleges. Since Golden Key members need to be within the top 15 percent of […]
by Julia Brown February 13, 2023 Loris Durrant has been the senior staff accountant for Golden Key for over 15 years. Durrant said what drew her to Golden Key were the society’s values centered around helping students excel. “In 2006, my family and I relocated […]
by Julia Brown
February 7, 2023
Tom Themeles truly is the living embodiment of the phrase, “life doesn’t always go according to plan.” A little over twenty years ago, Themeles attended three different schools and earned four degrees. He started at McMaster University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Geoscience and History with honors. He then attended Wilfrid Laurier University and earned a Master’s in Psychiatric History. Last he went to Brock University for Teachers College and earned a Bachelor of Education in teaching.
With so much education and potential under his belt, Themeles should have had a straightforward trajectory into the career of his choice, right? Unfortunately, that was not the case. “The advent of the internet and its subsequent rise in the digital era displaced the concept of a career,” said Themeles. According to him, the subject matter he had just learned was irrelevant shortly after he left school. Themeles said, “I felt behind, tried to keep up, and stayed up to date. It was a struggle.”
After remaining unemployed for some time after finishing his education, Themeles took a government position at Crown Corporation in Ontario, handling insurance claims in Canada. He said, “I did not have the correct information, skills, education, and experience to pursue anything else at that time.”
Although he wasn’t on the career path he had chosen, Themeles continued to excel in his place of work. He held four different positions while employed by Crown Corporation, with his last job title being an Operations Manager. Themeles said that even though his work at Crown Corporation was unrelated to his university degrees, the transferable soft skills he learned could still be applied.
The other positive takeaways from his job were the people he worked with and the leadership and management skills he learned. “One of the best parts of the job was the people. I made some great friends that I stay connected with to this day,” said Themeles. “I also had terrific managers whom I enjoyed working with and who taught me many things.”
Shortly after gaining employment at Crown Corporation, his life also took a happy turn. Themeles met and married his wife, Marla, and they have a beautiful daughter. With his new family, Themeles now also had a new perspective on life. While working for the Canadian government, Themeles felt he did not belong in that institution. “I felt trapped, continuously stressed, and worried about my future and health,” said Themeles.
It was time for Themeles to change his journey from pursuing an income to pursuing his passions. However, it had been years since he was last in university, and Themeles wasn’t even sure what he was passionate about anymore. “I decided to research my future work. I discovered this whole world centered on technology,” said Themeles. “I read about data science, robotics, the development of AI, 3D printing, and so on.” He felt reinvigorated and decided to be part of what he considered to be ‘the future’.
“To do that, the first thing I did was empty most (but not all) of my prior learning,” said Themeles. “I had to start over.” He did some research and started taking data science at Sheridan College, where he learned a variety of platforms, concepts, and programming. In 2020 he finally acquired the certification he needed to begin his new career path. Themeles said, “The program was fantastic, the professors were great, and I also met many people who have become good friends.”
Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic started shortly after completing his certificate program. The good news was that, by that time, Themeles was ready to take the next step. The leadership and management skills he learned while employed at Crown Corporation became instrumental during the early days of the pandemic. He had to learn how to react, problem-solve, and mediate various issues. In late 2020 Themeles began a new job that he now enjoys tremendously. With his new direction in life, he feels as though he is once again filled with immense potential.
Today Themeles is thriving in his new career. And in his spare time, he writes articles for the Golden Key Academy. His journey is a reminder to all that life can be unpredictable but that it’s never too late to make a change. Themeles said, “Today’s world is moving quickly, and you need to determine the trends, topics, and subjects to keep up with. Being adaptable, flexible, and open-minded will keep you sharp, in the know, and geared for success.”
GK SCHOLARSHIPS: Ather Sharif
GK Scholarships: Logan Thornton