Articles

Modern Tech Careers: Software Engineer vs. Data Scientist

August 12, 2020 

A software engineer works on a project.

Society is becoming increasingly focused — and dependent — on technology. We rely more on computer systems and algorithms to manage our lives than ever before, from the Alexa personal assistant that tells us the best route to take to work to the food delivery app that routes dinner to our doors. Most global computer systems rely on massive sets of data to function properly and assist users with their searches, whether they’re seeking traffic information, music, news, or Yelp recommendations. Software engineers and data scientists play a big role in developing our relationship with technology. Both careers require proficiency […]

Machine Learning Engineer vs. Data Scientist: Which Option Is for You?

August 12, 2020 

Today’s business world is increasingly data-driven, with modern companies turning to large volumes of digital information to support corporate operations and guide decision-making. Amazon, for example, offers a compelling example of how data can be used to successfully target consumers — and maximize sales. The company pioneered the use of so-called recommendation engines, which suggest products to shoppers based on their purchase and browsing history, as well as on purchases made by others with similar buying histories. It’s thanks in some part to such cutting-edge and profit-maximizing innovations that Amazon has become the success it is today. The recommendation engines spearheaded […]

International Studies vs. International Relations: What’s the Difference

August 12, 2020 

The world is getting smaller every day. The technological advancements of communications and travel over the past 100 years have resulted in a truly global economy, with nearly every country directly or indirectly relying on each other for goods and services. Servers around the world store terabytes of data, each enough to fill millions of books. Computers — smartphones, supercomputers, etc. — capable of accessing that information are available everywhere from corporations to people’s pockets. Even the most insulated countries recognize that going it alone in the 21st century is certain to end in disaster, because the issues that plague […]

Archivist vs. Librarian: Which Career Path Is for You?

August 11, 2020 

You’re finishing up your history degree and wondering what comes next. You enjoy reading about history, exploring vintage documents and photographs, organizing information, and facilitating others’ learning. You’re familiar with the roles of both archivists and librarians, but which one is the best fit for you? Before you set out to pursue your dream career, it’s important to explore the similarities and differences between archivists and librarians, including the educational requirements, day-to-day job description, and salary range. In broad terms, a librarian tends to help patrons find information and conduct research, while an archivist is in charge of processing, appraising, […]

Journalist vs. Reporter: What’s the Difference?

August 11, 2020 

A reporter broadcasts from the city.

Journalists and reporters are essential to the news cycle. They help people understand and come to terms with recent happenings. Current events shape the way individuals see the world, making news a vital vehicle for offering context. Newspeople don’t just cover current events, as news in a vacuum is not useful to anyone. Instead, journalists and reporters present it in the frame of reality so viewers can ascertain an event’s importance and impact on the world. Reporters and journalists present the news to people in different ways. Even though the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics puts these professions under the […]

International Studies vs. Political Science: Which Degree Is Right for You?

August 11, 2020 

The professional world is more connected than ever thanks to evolving technology and social media. Current events are now shared in real-time, creating both challenges and opportunities across increasingly linked societies. In today’s global economy, professionals with an interest in world culture can prove to be highly valuable to organizations in nearly every industry. There are several educational paths available to future professionals intrigued by current events and global culture, including international studies and political science. These two social sciences share many similarities, but the difference between international studies and political science lies in the specific expertise and skill sets. […]

Careers That Keep the Arts Alive: Docent vs Curator

August 11, 2020 

Docent educates child about artifacts.

An internationally recognized art museum in a major American city holds an exhibition of art, artifacts, and replicas of everyday items from ancient Rome. Each day, tens of thousands of visitors stream up the museum’s grand staircase, filing into a hall that holds hundreds of items from 600 BC — from pottery to tools to remnants of stone buildings. Museum guests marvel at the collection and its arrangement, slowly moving from piece to piece, pausing to read informational text on the wall. A group gathers around a tour guide who explains the history and story behind several standout items. Without […]

Data Science Degree vs. Statistics Degree: Analyzing the Difference

August 11, 2020 

Data rules the modern world. It’s collected everywhere and used in countless applications, from recommending products to online shoppers to suggesting the next binge-worthy Netflix series. Companies, governments, and organizations use data to drive critical decisions, and they depend on it to make informed decisions about future investments, product development, and improved systems and services. Data science and statistics both help make these decisions easier. Data Science Degree Overview Data science degrees focus on data analysis, machine learning, statistical theory, and advanced programming skills. These programs teach students how to create new forms of data modeling and data processes. Students […]

Curator vs. Museum Educator: What’s the Difference?

August 11, 2020 

Museums procure, study, and display art and other objects of lasting interest. For instance, the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C., showcases paintings of former American presidents, while the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History delves into Earth’s history, exhibiting ancient fossils and life-sized animal replicas. Museums offer engaging ways to learn about history, science, art, and more. An estimated 14 million Americans visit museums every year, many of them children. Children in particular can benefit from museum visits, which give them a chance to explore and connect with new subjects in person rather than through a screen. It’s clear […]

A Future in Sports: Pursuing a Business Degree vs. a Sports Management Degree

August 11, 2020 

Sports entertain millions of people every year, but the world of sports goes far beyond engaging fans. The industry represents an enormous business landscape, especially in the United States. Media and television rights, ticket sales, apparel sales, and sponsorships add up to an estimated domestic value of approximately $75 billion, according to Forbes. As sports have grown from pastimes to multibillion-dollar businesses, so has the need for business-minded employees in the front offices of leagues, brands, and franchises. Marketing, sales, public relations, management, information technology, and human resources are all disciplines applied to the world of sports. How does someone […]