Do Grades Really Matter in Job Interviews? What Employers Actually Look for

When it comes to job interviews, many candidates worry about being asked to show their grades or transcripts. It's understandable to feel anxious about this, especially if you didn't perform as well as you would have liked in school. However, the truth is that grades are rarely a significant factor in the hiring decision. What really matters to employers is whether you have the skills and experience necessary to perform the job.

Think about it: if an employer is hiring someone to speak English, they're not going to ask to see your grades in English class. Instead, they'll want to see if you can actually speak the language fluently. They may conduct the interview in English to assess your proficiency or ask you to demonstrate your skills through a conversation or presentation. The same principle applies to other skills and qualifications required for the job. Employers want to know that you can do the job, not just that you got good grades in school.

Of course, this isn't to say that grades are completely irrelevant. In some fields, such as academia or research, grades and academic achievements may carry more weight. However, for most jobs, experience and skills matter more than academic performance. In fact, many successful people have achieved great things despite not having a perfect academic record.

Consider the example of Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple. Jobs dropped out of college after just one semester and didn't have a degree or outstanding grades. However, he went on to become one of the most successful entrepreneurs in history. His success was based on his innovative ideas, entrepreneurial spirit, and ability to create products that people loved - not his grades.

So, if you're worried about being asked to show your grades in a job interview, remember that employers are more interested in your skills and experience. Focus on highlighting your strengths and achievements, and be prepared to demonstrate your abilities through examples and anecdotes. And if you didn't perform as well as you would have liked in school, don't let that hold you back. Your future success is not determined by your past academic performance.

As an educator, I strongly believe in creating a positive and supportive learning environment for my students. That's why I'm not harsh on my students when it comes to grading. Instead, I like to reward effort and hard work, even if the student doesn't get everything right. My principle is that if a student is trying their best, they're likely to improve over time. I also like to provide opportunities for students to volunteer in class and keep trying. I believe that if they take advantage of these opportunities and keep working hard, they will ultimately succeed. By creating a supportive and encouraging atmosphere in the classroom, I hope to help my students develop a growth mindset and the confidence they need to achieve their goals.

In conclusion, nobody ever asked me to see my grades in a job interview because what really matters is whether I can do the job. Employers want to see evidence of my skills and experience, not just my academic record. So, if you're worried about your grades, focus on developing your skills and showcasing your strengths - that's what will help you land your dream job.

In the post about Networking, I tell how I did find my job as a teacher in China, here is a clear example of what I just explain in this article, they ask me to teach a demonstrative lesson instead of asking me to see my grades. 

To see my illustrated story in China click here.

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 21 Mar 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/do-grades-really-matter-in-job-interviews-what-employers-actually-look-for

Tips and Strategies for Learning Vocabulary Words in English

Learning vocabulary is a crucial part of learning any language, including English. Having a good vocabulary will help you communicate effectively and express yourself more precisely in English. In this post, we'll go over some tips and strategies to help you learn vocabulary words in English.

1) Read widely and regularly: Reading is an excellent way to learn new words and expand your vocabulary. Try to read a variety of materials in English, such as novels, newspapers, magazines, and online articles. This will expose you to different types of vocabulary, including formal and informal language, technical terms, and idiomatic expressions.

2) Use context clues: When you come across a word you don't know, try to understand its meaning based on the context. Look for clues in the surrounding words or sentences that can help you infer the word's meaning.

3) Keep a vocabulary journal: Create a notebook or use an app to record new words and their meanings. You can also include example sentences, synonyms, and antonyms. This will help you remember new words and review them regularly.

4) Use flashcards: Flashcards are a great way to practice vocabulary words. You can make your own flashcards with the words you want to learn or use an online tool. Review your flashcards regularly to reinforce your memory of the words.

5) Practice with exercises: There are many online resources that offer exercises and quizzes to help you practice and test your vocabulary. Some popular websites include Quizlet, Vocabulary.com, etc,

6) Listen to English: Listening to English is an excellent way to learn new vocabulary words and improve your pronunciation. You can watch English-language movies, TV shows, and documentaries, or listen to podcasts and radio programs. See my other post about using music to learn English and improve pronunciation.

7) Use apps: There are many apps available that can help you learn vocabulary words in English. Some popular apps include Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone.

8) Practice speaking: Practicing speaking is crucial to building your vocabulary. Try to use new words in conversations with native English speakers or with other learners. You can also record yourself speaking and listen to the recording to identify areas for improvement.

Combining the first two tips, reading widely and regularly and using context clues, can be a powerful combination when it comes to learning vocabulary words in English. By reading a variety of materials in English, you expose yourself to different types of vocabulary, including formal and informal language, technical terms, and idiomatic expressions. And by using context clues to understand the meaning of unfamiliar words, you avoid the need to look the dictionary all the time, making the process less boring and more engaging. Looking the dictionary all the time can interrupt your line of thinking and that is not good, you may want to finish the chapter or page before you go back and see all the words you could not figure it out the meaning by the context.

Furthermore, the same words often appear multiple times within a text, reinforcing what you have learned and increasing your chances of remembering those words. A few minutes of reading every day can do wonders for your improvement, especially if you focus on materials that interest you and challenge you just enough to learn new words but not feel overwhelmed.

Reading widely and regularly, and using context clues to understand unfamiliar words can be a powerful combination for learning vocabulary words in English. This approach allows you to learn new words in a more engaging way, while reinforcing your knowledge through repeated exposure to those words within a text. By making a habit of reading a few minutes every day, you can make significant progress in expanding your vocabulary and becoming a more effective communicator in English.

In summary, learning vocabulary words in English requires regular practice and exposure to different types of language. Using a variety of strategies, such as reading, using context clues, keeping a vocabulary journal, using flashcards and apps, and practicing speaking, will help you expand your vocabulary and become a more effective communicator in English.

Article by Marcelo Gameiro Published 21 Mar 2023 

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/tips-and-strategies-for-learning-vocabulary-words-in-english

Memories of University Life: Working on Projects in Agronomy Enginering with Wonderful Classmates

One particular memory that stands out was working on a project related to topography. It was a challenging assignment, but working together as a team made the task much easier and enjoyable. We spent many hours in the field, taking measurements and recording data, and then spent even more time analyzing the results and creating our final report. It was a great experience, and I learned a lot about teamwork and project management during that time.

Today , I came across a group of students working on a topography assignment (you can see the measure equipment on the picture),and it brought back memories of my university days. It was great to see the younger generation working together and learning, just as we did all those years ago. Although I do not have pictures of doing the assignment on those days, I do have some images from my topography notebook, which I often look at to remind myself of those wonderful times.

Lastly, I would like to add that my classmates from university remain my close friends until today. Even though we have all moved on with our lives, we still keep in touch and reminisce about our time together. Being a university student was an amazing experience, and I am grateful for the memories and friendships that came out of it.

My graduation picture in 1994

Article by Marcelo Gameiro Published 18 Mar 2023 

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/memories-of-university-life-working-on-projects-in-agronomy-enginering-with-wonderful-classmates

Square Dancing Competition at Zhengzhou University: A Showcase of Skill and Energy

Square dancing has become a popular form of physical exercise and social activity among middle-aged and elderly Chinese people. However, it is also enjoyed by younger generations, as demonstrated by a recent square dancing competition held at Zhengzhou University, one of China's leading universities.

YouTube recorded presentation / pos presentation

Teams of around fifty students from 15 different teams competed in the event, showcasing the beauty and elegance of square dancing. The dancers were all dressed in matching outfits, adding to the visual appeal of the performance.

As the music started, each team took their positions in the playground. The dancers then moved in perfect synchronization, their steps perfectly matching the rhythm of the music. The competition was intense, with each team trying to outdo the other with their dance moves and energy.

The audience was captivated by the performance, cheering and clapping as each team took their turn on the stage. The energy in the room was infectious, with everyone swept up in the excitement of the event.

Square dancing has become a beloved pastime in China, and competitions like this one showcase the skill and talent of the dancers. It is a testament to the power of dance to bring people together, regardless of age or background.

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 16 Mar 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/square-dancing-competition-at-zhengzhou-university-a-showcase-of-skill-and-energy

 

Discover the Magic of Playing in the Snow: A Guide to Winter Fun

YouTube: Making a “G” on the snow

Playing in the snow is an experience like no other. The snow-covered landscape, the chilly air, and the sound of crunching snow underfoot all create a magical atmosphere that draws people outdoors to enjoy the beauty and fun of winter.

The moment you step outside and feel the crisp air hit your face, you know you're in for a treat. The landscape is transformed into a wonderland, with everything coated in a layer of pristine white snow. The trees look like they are wearing a white fluffy coat, and the ground is soft and cushiony underfoot. The world is quieter, and there is a sense of calm that comes with the snow.

Me and the students looking at the snow outside.

As you start to move around, you notice that everything is different. Walking in the snow requires a bit more effort than usual, but it is incredibly satisfying to see your footsteps left behind in the snow. You may start to feel a sense of freedom as you venture further away from the beaten path and explore new terrain.

Playing in the snow is not just for kids. Adults can enjoy a variety of winter activities, such as skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding. Skiing and snowboarding are exhilarating activities that take advantage of the snow's natural properties. Snowshoeing is a great way to explore the wilderness and get some exercise while enjoying the winter scenery. Sledding down a hill is an age-old tradition that is just as fun today as it was when you were a child.

One of the best things about playing in the snow is the sense of camaraderie it creates. Snow activities are best enjoyed with friends and family. Whether you're building a snowman or having a snowball fight, there's nothing like laughing and having fun with others while surrounded by the snow's beauty.

Overall, playing in the snow is an unforgettable experience that everyone should try at least once in their life. The snow's beauty and wonder are truly unique, and the memories you make while playing in it will stay with you forever. So, next time the snow falls, don't stay indoors, grab some friends and head outside for some winter fun.

Below it is when I saw snow for the first time in my life, I was living in USA (1998-2001)

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 16 Mar 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/snowing-thewinter-fun

 

 

How to Leave Your Mark on the World: 6 Ways to Make a Difference.

Everyone has a desire to leave their mark on the world. Some people achieve this by making significant contributions to their field, while others do it by being a positive influence on the people around them. Regardless of the method, the desire to make a difference is a common human trait. As you can see in the picture, today I left my mark in the “world” (actually in the floor of the playground field) it probably won't be there tomorrow. 

So, how can you put your mark on the world? How can you make sure it will be there when you are gone? Here are some ideas to get you started. The following ideas for sure are better than what I did today (writing my Initial on the snow)

     1) Pursue your passions

One of the best ways to make a difference is to pursue your passions. When you do something that you love, you're more likely to put in the time and effort required to excel. Whether it's art, music, writing, or something else entirely, find what you're passionate about and pursue it with everything you've got.

     2) Make a positive impact on others

Making a positive impact on others is another way to leave your mark on the world. This can be as simple as volunteering at a local charity or mentoring someone who could benefit from your expertise. By helping others, you can create a ripple effect that extends far beyond your own life.

     3) Use your skills to make a difference

If you have a specific set of skills, consider using them to make a difference in the world. For example, if you're a doctor, you could volunteer with Doctors Without Borders or a similar organization. If you're an engineer, you could work on projects that help solve global issues like access to clean water or renewable energy.

     4) Start a movement

Starting a movement can be an effective way to make a lasting impact. Whether it's advocating for a social cause or creating a new way of doing things, starting a movement requires passion, dedication, and a willingness to take risks.

     5) Write a book

Writing a book can be a powerful way to share your ideas and leave a lasting impact on the world. Whether it's a memoir, a self-help book, or a work of fiction, your words can inspire, educate, and entertain others long after you're gone.

     6) Create something Creating something that people can enjoy or benefit from is a great way to leave your mark on the world. Whether it's a piece of art, a piece of software, or a new invention, creating something that has a positive impact on people's lives is a legacy worth leaving.

In conclusion, there are countless ways to leave your mark on the world. Whether you pursue your passions, make a positive impact on others, use your skills to make a difference, start a movement, write a book, or create something, the important thing is that you take action. You have the power to make a difference, and the world is waiting for you to leave your mark.

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 16 Mar 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/your-mark-on-the-world

 

The Power of Persistence: How Consistent Effort Leads to Success

Persistence is a key factor in achieving success. It refers to the ability to maintain consistent effort towards a goal despite facing challenges, setbacks, or obstacles. Whether it is in personal or professional life, persistence can help you to achieve great things. In this post, we will explore why persistence is important and how it can lead to success.

The first thing to understand is that success is not an overnight process. It takes time, effort, and patience. Consistency is the key to success. When you start seeing good results with the methodology you are using, it can be tempting to slack off or take a break. However, this is where persistence comes in. By maintaining consistent effort, you can continue to improve and achieve even greater results.

One example of persistence is the story of Thomas Edison. He failed thousands of times while trying to invent the light bulb. However, he didn't give up. He persisted in his efforts and eventually succeeded in inventing the light bulb, which revolutionized the world. Similarly, the famous basketball player Michael Jordan was once cut from his high school basketball team. Despite this setback, he persisted in his efforts and became one of the greatest basketball players of all time.

Persistence also involves patience. Sometimes, it can take a long time to achieve your goals. But if you keep at it and maintain consistent effort, you will eventually see results. It's important to remember that success is not always linear. There may be setbacks or plateaus along the way. But by persisting through these challenges, you will eventually reach your destination.

Little by little, consistent effort can lead to great results. For example, if you are trying to learn a new skill, practicing a little bit every day can help you to make progress over time, this is especially true when learning a new language. It may not seem like much at first, but over time, those small efforts will add up and lead to significant improvements.

In conclusion, persistence is a vital component of success. By maintaining consistent effort and not giving up in the face of challenges or setbacks, you can achieve great things. It's important to remember that success is a journey, not a destination, and that patience is key. Little by little, consistent effort can lead to significant improvements and help you to reach your goals.

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 13 Mar 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/the-power-of-persistence-how-consistent-effort-leads-to-success