Thursday, November 15, 2018

How Physical Education Benefits Students


New York resident Michael “Mike” Paulercio first discovered his interest in physical education after an experience volunteering with high school students. Alongside working at a supermarket in Yonkers, Mike Paulercio is working towards an associate’s degree in physical education. Graduates with this degree often continue their education to become a licensed physical education teachers, and work in elementary and secondary schools. Physical education classes are an important part of the wider school curriculum.

While most states require K-12 schools to offer a physical education curriculum, few students engage in the daily hour of physical exercise recommended by health experts. However, there are several benefits to expanding physical education in schools.

1. Improvements in Behavior. Students who participate in a sufficient amount of physical education courses are more focused during class time. Physical education has also been linked to better test scores and higher grades.

2. Health. When children have more opportunities for physical activity, they are less likely to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or heart disease later in life. Physically active children also have stronger bones and healthier hearts.

3. Cognitive Benefits. Studies have shown that physical activity can reduce symptoms associated with depression and anxiety. Children who engage in regular exercise are also more likely exhibit feelings of self-worth and self-acceptance.

Friday, November 9, 2018

Career Trends for Graphic Designers


New York-based undergraduate Michael “Mike” Paulercio balances his position as a grocery clerk at a Yonkers, NY, supermarket with a course load towards a degree in physical education. In addition to making the Fall 2017 semester Dean’s List, Mike Paulercio earned a credential in graphic design.

The most popular positions for qualified graphic designers include web production artists, user-experience designers, and infographic designers, all of which are in high demand. Listed below are some of the defining employment trends for graphic designers.

1. Flexible Scheduling. Improved cloud-based platforms and the development of portable devices with increased memory and processing capacity have made it easier for graphic designers to carry out their tasks outside of the office. More companies are offering work-from-home and telecommuting options to attract and retain talented designers.

2. Contract Positions. Approximately one out of every five graphic designers work for themselves. There are a growing number of online job platforms that connect freelance designers to clients in diverse industries. Graphic design is also a popular career path for digital nomads, or people who work online while traveling or living abroad.

3. Soft Skills. While successful graphic designers must have a strong technical background and expert knowledge of design software, employers also look for designers with well-developed soft skills. Graphic designers must be able to work well in a team, complete tasks on time, and communicate clearly with their clients.

Thursday, November 1, 2018

Procreate 4.1 Boosts Artists' Illustration and Perspective Capacities


Michael “Mike” Paulercio is a Yonkers, New York, student who is pursuing a physical education degree at community college. Also maintaining a position as a grocery clerk, Mike Paulercio enjoys graphic design and has achieved certification in the field.

One of the essentials for many graphic designers is Procreate, an app designed for the iPad that amplifies digital painting, sketching, and illustration capacities. Released in mid-2018, the latest version Procreate 4.1 includes the Liquify filter, which enables 120fps pixel manipulation and results in extremely fluid effects. 

Those who work with characters can take advantage of the Symmetry Drawing Guide, a new feature that mirrors brush strokes in real-time and boosts workflow. In addition, Perspective tools have been augmented with isometric and 2D guides, and more accurate. control-over-grid measurements. The end result is that pictures from various perspectives are quickly created and rendered, without sacrificing any detail within the overall artwork.