In 2010, we launched our blog. And in 2010, you responded by reading it thousands of times!
Well, maybe not you, all by your lonesome. Chances are, you missed a post or two. But have no fear -- our compilation of the five most popular blog posts of 2010 is here! To make life easier, I've included the intro paragraphs from each blog post. All you've got to do is read on -- and, of course, enjoy.
1. 4 Self-Care Tips to Keep You Inspired and Effective
Last week was non-stop at work. Next week will be busy, too. And yet here I am, sitting at home on a sunny Sunday afternoon, doing what? Working. Last Friday, I planned to write a blog post for EARN, so I carefully blocked off some time on my Outlook calendar to accomplish the task. Then a deluge of EARN clients, whom we call Savers, came gushing into the office. It would have been a normal influx if my co-workers had been available, but they were out of the office. As I jumped up to help, I pushed aside my thoughtful time-management plan and chose to focus on my priority: serving EARN’s Savers.
2. Should For-Profit Colleges Face Stricter Regulations from Uncle Sam?
Defaults on student loans are on the rise. And according to current data, a main cause may be the recent surge in enrollment at for-profit colleges. In recent years, the sheer number of these schools has grown considerably, with enrollment climbing from about 365,000 students to almost 1.8 million. For-profit colleges draw the greater part — sometimes 90% — of their funding from federal aid. Since higher enrollment equates to more money, these for-profit schools have a strong economic incentive to encourage students to enroll.
3. 5 Steps to Looking Great for the Holidays Without Breaking the Bank
Maybe it’s my ego talking, but knowing how many friends and family I’m about to see for the holidays, I want to look my best. But travel and gift-giving have left my bank account running on empty, leaving few funds to refresh my look. Luckily, I’ve developed five shopping tips to keep me fashionable and frugal. And since I’m full of the giving spirit at this time of year, I’ve shared them with you below. Read on!
4. Building Wealth, Even if You Think You Can't
I’m always on the lookout for ways to cut corners, stretch available funds and bring in a few extra bucks. Every dollar I don’t have to spend, and every extra dollar I can find, is money I can put aside for the future – or, sometimes, to spend on something like a theater ticket or a visit to my daughter. In a nutshell: I save where I can so I can spend where I want. People write entire books on the subject of how to spend less or earn more. All I have is a single blog post, so I’m going to suggest eight specific techniques.
5. How the Credit CARD Act Is a Net Win for Consumers
Landmark credit card reform legislation enacted by President Obama in 2009 reached its final phase of implementation last Sunday, August 22. Called the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility, and Disclosure Act of 2009, the bill significantly impacts U.S. consumers – or, more precisely, their wallets.
So, which 2010 blog post is your favorite? Let me know below!
Until next week,
Charlotte Hill
Social Media Fellow