I'm extremely disappointed. I bought my first Razer Blade laptop back in 2010 and it worked well until the battery bloated and popped out of the case. So, I decided I wouldn't be purchasing any more of those. Fast forward to needing a new laptop; I thought, surely after all these years, Razer has sorted everything out for their new laptops. So, I bought a brand-new 2024 Razer laptop, costing around $2300 with taxes.
For the first two months, everything was working fine. I even got the Thunderbolt Razer docking station. I hooked up two monitors via USB-C and also connected a Thunderbolt cable from the docking station to my Qnap. Everything was perfect until one day when I disconnected the docking station to move the laptop to the couch for a few hours. When I plugged the cable back in, none of the USB-C ports worked anymore.
With over 20 years in IT, I went through the troubleshooting steps I'd normally advise end users: rebooting, unplugging, but nothing worked. I even tried swapping cables around. Eventually, I decided to do a Windows reset, thinking that's probably what Razer's script would suggest. But even after the reset, the USB-C ports remained dead.
Then began the frustrating journey with Razer support. The first person I spoke to suddenly couldn't hear me when I explained the issue, so I hung up and called again. The second support person's first suggestion? You guessed it, factory reset. When I explained I'd already done that, they promised to email me instructions on their specific method. It turned out to be the same as what I'd already done, but I did it again just to comply.
After the factory reset, the USB-C ports still didn't work. So, Razer support requested a video showing the issue. I felt like they were pulling a prank on me. Not only did I have to rebuild my brand-new laptop and reinstall Windows, now they wanted me to be Steven Spielberg too? After spending half a day dealing with this on a laptop that was only two months old, I was incredulous.
I shot a video on my phone, but it was too big to email. Eventually, after a cumbersome process involving my NAS and YouTube, I managed to upload the video and share the link with Razer support. I'll keep everyone posted on what they request next.
The moral of the story? Imagine if someone less tech-savvy had bought this laptop and needed an RMA. It's a nightmare. Razer's tech support seems nonexistent; they just read off a script without any real solutions. I can confidently say this is the last time I'll be spending close to $3000 on a Razer product.

**What will you be doing with this PC? Be as specific as possible, and include specific games or programs you will be using.**

Playing AAA games (e.g RDR2, BioShock, Detroit: Become Human, RE4, Sekiro), maybe some video editing on occasion. Also programming (potentially with AI/ML) and having way more Google tabs than I should (in the realm of a hundred so, because I'm a tab hoarder). Ideally being able to play the games with those tabs in the background. I'm not fussy on how fast it can run, so long as it's at least 60 FPS on the heavy resource games, but I'd like it to run on high(ish) settings at 1440p.

**What is your maximum budget before rebates/shipping/taxes?**

$3000 NZD i.e $1800 USD. Ideally less because I'd love for that $3000 to stretch buying some headphones and a good chair, and also because $3000 is pretty pricey.

**When do you plan on building/buying the PC? Note: beyond a week or two from today means any build you receive will be out of date when you want to buy.**

Within the next couple of weeks.

**What, exactly, do you need included in the budget? (ToweOS/monitokeyboard/mouse/etc\)**

Everything but the OS. Tower, Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse, CPU, CPU Cooler, GPU, Motherboard, RAM, Storage and PSU.

**Which country (and state/province) will you be purchasing the parts in? If you're in US, do you have access to a Microcenter location?**

New Zealand (Wellington) - though I can buy online from Amazon or NewEgg. I've linked some websites I can buy from locally, although pcpartpicker only knows some of them.

**If reusing any parts (including monitor(s)/keyboard/mouse/etc), what parts will you be reusing? Brands and models are appreciated.**

No parts being reused (first build) except for a cheap 1080p 60FPS monitor that I will use for a second screen.

**Will you be overclocking? If yes, are you interested in overclocking right away, or down the line? CPU and/or GPU?**

I don't expect to, but perhaps down the line.

**Are there any specific features or items you want/need in the build? (ex: SSD, large amount of storage or a RAID setup, CUDA or OpenCL support, etc)**

SSD: Minimum 1TB, ideally 2TB or more Monitor: 1440p, minimum 120Hz (not that I expect to get this for resource-intensive games) Chipset: AM5 Wifi: Ideally yes Noise: Anything below a jet engine, frankly

**Do you have any specific case preferences (Size like ITX/microATX/mid-towefull-tower, styles, colors, window or not, LED lighting, etc), or a particular color theme preference for the components?**

No particular size preferences, but maybe just a preference for mid-tower? I plan on having the PC be under my desk so not particularly fussy on design, but ideally a black colour theme that's unintrusive. But again, not planning on spending too much time looking at it.

**Do you need a copy of Windows included in the budget? If you do need one included, do you have a preference?**

No.

**Extra info or particulars:**

I'd like to keep future upgradeability in mind - I'd rather not have to replace several components to upgrade later.

Noteable places to buy parts in New Zealand (besides ordering them from Amazon or NewEgg):

pbtech.co.nz computerlounge.co.nz extremepc.co.nz mightyape.co.nz legendpc.co.nz playtech.co.nz 1stwave.co.nz cackle.co.nz pp.co.nz doolz.co.nz
Ranked roughly in order of how popular they are.

Embarking on your solar journey is an exciting step towards energy independence and environmental responsibility. But the process can be daunting, especially when it comes to getting quotes and choosing the right solar installer.
To help you navigate this crucial phase, we've compiled essential tips, drawing insights from competitor analysis and the experiences of countless homeowners.

1. Do Your Research Before Requesting Quotes

Before diving into the quoting process, invest time in researching the solar landscape.
​

• Understand the Basics: Familiarize yourself with solar technology, the different types of panels and systems, and how solar can benefit your specific home. This knowledge will empower you to ask informed questions during consultations.
  
• Check Your Roof: Assess your roof's suitability for solar panels. Consider factors like orientation, shading, and size. If your roof isn't ideal, explore alternative options like ground-mounted solar or community solar programs.
  
• Financial Incentives: Research available local, state, and federal incentives, such as tax credits, rebates, and net metering policies. These can significantly impact your solar investment's financial viability.
  

2. Gather Multiple Quotes

Don't settle for the first quote you receive. Instead, aim for at least three to five quotes from different solar installers. This will give you a broader perspective on pricing, system options, and company approaches.

3. Compare Quotes Carefully

​

• System Size and Production: Pay close attention to the proposed system size and its estimated annual energy production. Ensure it aligns with your energy consumption needs.
  
• Cost Breakdown: Examine the cost breakdown carefully. What's included in the price? Are there any hidden fees or additional costs? Look for transparency in pricing.
  
• Warranties and Guarantees: Compare warranties on panels, inverters, workmanship, and performance guarantees. A good installer will offer comprehensive protection for your investment.
  
• Financing Options: If you're not paying cash, explore the financing options offered by each installer. Compare interest rates, loan terms, and monthly payments.
  

4. Vet the Installers

Beyond the numbers, it's crucial to assess the installers themselves:
​

• Experience and Reputation: Look for established companies with a proven track record in the solar industry. Check online reviews and ask for references to gauge their reputation.
  
• Certifications and Licenses: Verify that installers have the necessary licenses and certifications, such as NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certification.
  
• Customer Service: How responsive and helpful is the company? A good solar installer will prioritize clear communication and exceptional customer service throughout the process.
  

5. Ask the Right Questions

Don't hesitate to ask questions during consultations. Here are some key inquiries:
​

• Can you explain the technical details of the proposed system?
• How do you handle permitting and inspections?
• What kind of ongoing maintenance and support do you offer?
• What is your estimated timeline for installation?
• Can you provide references from previous customers?

Read More: What Is The Power Output Of A Solar Panel

​

FAQs

• How long does it take to get solar quotes? Typically, you can expect to receive quotes within a few days to a week after your initial inquiry.
• Should I choose the cheapest quote? Not necessarily. The cheapest quote might not always offer the best value. Consider factors like warranty, equipment quality, and installer reputation.
• What happens after I accept a quote? The installer will handle the permitting process, schedule the installation, and guide you through system activation and net metering enrollment.
• Can I negotiate the price? Yes, it's often possible to negotiate with installers. Don't be afraid to ask for a better deal or compare offers from different companies.
• Do solar panels require a lot of maintenance? Solar panels are generally low-maintenance. Most require only occasional cleaning and an annual inspection.

By following these tips and asking the right questions, you'll be well-equipped to choose the best solar installer for your needs and secure the best possible deal for your solar investment.

Understanding the Costs of Solar Panels in Sydney: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction:
Solar energy has emerged as a promising solution to both environmental concerns and rising energy costs. In Sydney, Australia, where abundant sunshine is a natural resource, solar panels have gained significant traction as a means to harness renewable energy and reduce reliance on traditional electricity sources. However, for many individuals and businesses considering the switch to solar power, understanding the costs involved is paramount. In this article, we delve into the various factors influencing the cost of solar panels in Sydney
, providing valuable insights for those looking to make an informed decision.
1. The Basics of Solar Panel Costs:
Solar panel costs can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type and quality of panels, installation fees, government incentives, and ongoing maintenance expenses. In Sydney, the average cost of installing a solar panel system typically ranges from AUD $3,000 to $10,000 per kilowatt (kW) of installed capacity. This cost can be further influenced by factors such as:

• Panel Type: There are different types of solar panels available, including monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. Monocrystalline panels are often more efficient but come at a higher cost compared to polycrystalline ones.
  
• System Size: The size of the solar panel system required depends on the energy needs of the household or business. Larger systems with higher capacities will naturally incur higher costs.
  
• Installation Complexity: Factors such as roof type, shading, and the need for additional equipment like inverters and batteries can affect installation costs.
  

2. Government Incentives and Rebates:
In Australia, various government incentives and rebates are available to encourage the adoption of solar energy. One of the most significant initiatives is the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), which provides financial incentives in the form of Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) for eligible solar panel installations. These certificates can significantly reduce the upfront cost of installing solar panels, making them more accessible to homeowners and businesses.
Additionally, some state-specific rebates and feed-in tariff schemes may further offset the cost of solar panel installation in Sydney. It's essential for prospective solar adopters to research and take advantage of these incentives to maximize savings.
3. Installation Costs and Considerations:
The cost of installing solar panels in Sydney typically includes not only the price of the panels themselves but also installation fees charged by solar companies. When selecting an installer, it's crucial to consider factors such as reputation, experience, warranties offered, and customer reviews.
Additionally, factors like roof orientation, tilt angle, and shading can impact the efficiency of a solar panel system. A professional installer will assess these factors during the site visit and design a system optimized for maximum energy production.
4. Maintenance and Operational Costs:
While solar panels require minimal maintenance compared to traditional energy systems, there are still some operational costs to consider. These may include occasional cleaning to remove dust and debris, inverter maintenance or replacement, and monitoring system performance to ensure optimal efficiency.
Investing in high-quality panels and components can help minimize long-term maintenance costs and ensure the durability and reliability of the solar energy system.
5. Return on Investment (ROI) and Long-term Savings:
Despite the initial investment required, installing solar panels in Sydney can offer substantial long-term savings on electricity bills. With rising electricity prices and decreasing solar panel costs, the payback period for solar installations has shortened significantly in recent years.
Calculating the ROI of a solar panel system involves considering factors such as upfront costs, ongoing savings on electricity bills, government incentives, and the expected lifespan of the system. In many cases, solar panel installations can provide an attractive ROI and continue to generate savings for decades after the initial investment is recouped.
Conclusion:
Solar panels offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution for generating electricity in Sydney. By understanding the various factors influencing solar panel costs, individuals and businesses can make informed decisions about whether solar energy is right for them. With government incentives, declining installation costs, and long-term savings on electricity bills, solar power presents a compelling opportunity to reduce carbon emissions, lower energy costs, and contribute to a more sustainable future in Sydney and beyond.

Tldr; any ideas on what to do with this hardware haul?? Thanks in advance! https://ibb.co/Hgv68Zx
I have no clue what this really is or what i should do with it (other than not connect it to my network yet).A guy in my area posted this for free, said its been taking up space in his garage. He purchased it around 2010 to do some testing/learning for Cisco network certifications and I was lucky enough to be first in line. I dont know a damn thing about this level of hardware or professional networking in general.
So now what do i do? I dont think i can foot the power bill for running all of this - especially if im not even sure what it's for. Is there a used market for this sort of hardware? I imagine there is but then again the guy gave it all away so maybe not?
Anyway thanks for reading this, and thanks in advance for any advice. Sorry for any poor formatting, im on mobile.

** This is a brand new build. **

What will you be doing with this PC? Be as specific as possible, and include specific games or programs you will be using.

• Gaming. I don't play very intensive games as my current PC can't really handle them. LoL, Hearthstone, Rocket League, Phasmophobia and Chess? However, with a stronger pc I want to be able to run games such as the infamous Cyberpunk 2077 on a good (QHD+)quality with 120+fps. Aside from gaming, I need the build to have a strong CPU (Probably a Ryzen 7 7800X3D) for handling CPU-based Chess engines like Stockfish. I also need the build to have a strong GPU for handling GPU-based Chess engines like Leela. The build should also be able to handle AI image creation tools such as Stable Diffusion, although this is not a priority over the gaming and chess needs. I will be handling p2p torrents for things like seeding public Linux ISO's on a Bittorrent client, so ample storage size and speed are a pro. Finally, the build's monitor and hardware should be able to support an external blu-ray player (and perhaps games) at 4K quality.

What is your maximum budget before rebates/shipping/taxes?

• €3500 - €4000 VAT included. If my needs are met without reaching this amount, then obviously I'm already happy. Preferred range €2000-€3000.

When do you plan on building/buying the PC? Note: beyond a week or two from today means any build you receive will be out of date when you want to buy.

• A.S.A.P.

What, exactly, do you need included in the budget? (ToweOS/monitokeyboard/mouse/etc)

• Almost everything that a desktop gaming PC needs, as I currently have an old laptop with a shitty mouse. Included in the budget are; Tower, Monitor, Motherboard, CPU/GPU/Case cooling, Storage cards, Memory cards and PSU.

Which country (and state/province) will you be purchasing the parts in? If you're in US, do you have access to a Microcenter location?

• The Netherlands, right in the middle of the country. (It's a small country so I don't think it really affects that much. If it does, let me know) * ABSOLUTELY NO AMAZON PURCHASES * Reliable local vendors include Megekko, Alternate and Azerty.

If reusing any parts (including monitor(s)/keyboard/mouse/etc), what parts will you be reusing? Brands and models are appreciated.

• An older Razer Kraken headset which I'm not quite satisfied with. Using the headphone jack results in bad mic quality and worse audio than when using the headset as intended. (putting in an USB and turning on the headset, resulting in a few hours of use before it's empty) If you guys have recommendations, let me know. I'm a big fan of anything that I don't need to charge A.K.A. wired goodies. I will also be bringing a Razer Ornata mechanical keyboard. Although I'm satisfied with the keyboard, I can't bring myself to fully use it's functions (custom RGB stuff), since I've come to dislike Razer's software and it's impact on performance. Maybe if the new pc can actually handle processes running in the background my view on this will change. I won't be bringing anything else.

Will you be overclocking? If yes, are you interested in overclocking right away, or down the line? CPU and/or GPU?

• Eventually yes. my current laptop doesn't even allow overclocking (thanks HP) but I do want the option to overclock the CPU and GPU to unlock their full potential when in a few years time I want a performance boost. Or just do it now, I haven't decided yet. But I do want the option to do it!

Are there any specific features or items you want/need in the build? (ex: SSD, large amount of storage or a RAID setup, CUDA or OpenCL support, etc)

• For Stockfish, I want at least AVX-512 support on the CPU. I'm pretty tech illiterate though, so if it means that's out of budget, please tell me. For leela, I want CUDA support. I think that means a Nvidia GPU, preferably 4070 or highebetter. I want at least 2 TB storage but preferably more like 4 TB. Prioritize storage amount over speed. I'm used to ancient HDD speeds so I don't necessarily need gen5 SSDs to already feel a huge improvement. Please no HDDs. I want the build to be quiet, although I'm used to a lot of noise. (laptop fans work overtime, all the time) The tower can be any size to fit the build, although I'd prefer the build not to include RTX 4090, since I think those would automatically increase case size.

What type of network connectivity do you need? (Wired and/or WiFi) If WiFi is needed and you would like to find the fastest match for your wireless router, please list any specifics.

• I want support for high speed WiFi. I am really illiterate when it comes to wifi/ethernet speeds, but I trust you guys can help me out. I do want to set up fibre + ethernet in the future(I think 10GB LAN Ethernet), but for now I'm stuck with Wifi 6 due to no ethernet cables in walls.

Do you have any specific case preferences (Size like ITX/microATX/mid-towefull-tower, styles, colors, window or not, LED lighting, etc), or a particular color theme preference for the components?

• Go wild! But do try to keep away from excessive RGB. Actually, I do prefer on having as little RGB as possible, unless as aforementioned it limits options.

Do you need a copy of Windows included in the budget? If you do need one included, do you have a preference?

• It is not included in the budget. But I will be getting Windows 11 Pro.

Extra info or particulars:

• Please no RTX 4090 unless it still fits the budget and the tower. if it means having a bigger tower I would rather have a smaller tower and no RTX 4090.
  
• Thank you for reading! I'm open for any questions. Personally I have been compiling and discarding part lists for the past few weeks as I keep stumbling upon more information and getting distracted. I hope you guys can help me make a decision after procrastinating for weeks and weeks. Cya
  

1. What will you be doing with this PC? Be as specific as possible, and include specific games (ex: resolution, FPS, settings) or programs you will be using.

I primarily use my PC for:

• MMO & RPG PC Gaming @ 60-120+ FPS (FFXIV, Granblue Relink, Genshin Impact/Honkai Star Rail, Elden Ring, Monster Hunter, Baldur's Gate 3...)
• Console Gaming (Capture Card)
• Art/Photo/Video Editing (Clip Studio Paint, Adobe Photoshop, Sony Vegas)
• OBS Livestreaming @ 1080p / 60 FPS

I'll usually have my web browser and a Discord call in the background.
I stream either games or art 5-7 days/week. An average stream is about 4-6 hours, but it can go up to 12 hours per session for several weeks. Otherwise I work on art commissions and editing.
Currently, FFXIV sits comfortably around 144 FPS on low settings, and most games run fine at 60+ FPS on medium. So I'd like to keep it about the same, if not better. I have no interest in running games at high/maximum settings, but if the PC can do that, then cool 👍

2. What is your maximum PRE-TAX budget before rebates and shipping?

$2500. I don't mind going over if the price is right, but no more than $3000 please.

3. When do you plan on building/buying the PC? Note: beyond a week or two from today means any build you receive will be out of date when you want to buy.

Within the next 1-2 weeks.

4. What, exactly, do you need included in the budget? (ex: toweOS/monitokeyboard/mouse/etc)

Tower & OS.

5. If reusing any parts (including monitor(s)/keyboard/mouse/etc), what parts will you be reusing? How old are they? Brands and models are appreciated.

• Monitor: (2022) LG 27GN600-B Ultragear 27" IPS LED FHD G-Sync Compatible Monitor with HDR (DisplayPort, HDMI)
• Keyboard: (💀) Microsoft Comfort Curve 2000
• Mouse: (2021) Razer Naga Trinity
• Microphone: (<2020) Blue Microphone Yeti (16 bit, 48kHz). Handed down to me 2 years ago.
• Headphones: (2023) Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro Wired (16 or 24 bit, 48kHz)

6. Will you be overclocking (ex: CPU/GPU/RAM)? If yes, are you interested in overclocking right away, or down the line?

Not at all.

7. Are there any specific features or items you want/need in the build? (ex: SSD, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, VR, VirtualLink, tensor cores, large amount of storage or a RAID setup, CUDA or OpenCL support, etc)

• 1TB Storage, Prefer SSD
• 16GB RAM or better
• Ethernet/Bluetooth/Wi-Fi
• 1-2 HDMI or Display Ports: my main monitor can accommodate both, but I'm okay with only HDMI. I use 2-3 HDMI monitors on a regular basis.
• 5 USB 2.0/3.0 ports: I currently have 9 total externals (Headphones, Mouse, Keyboard, Webcam, Azeron Keypad, Microphone, Hard Drive, Art Tablet, Capture Card). I have a USB extension hub. The latter 3 I swap around regularly, so they're not always plugged in. The others I use daily.
• 1 USB-C port: I use 2, but I need at least 1 for my SD-Card ReadeHDMI Port or tether hotspot.

8. Do you have any specific case preferences (ex: mITX/mATX/mid-towefull-tower sizes, styles, colours, window or not, LED lighting, etc.), or a particular color theme preference for the components?

No preference, as long as cable management is happy. White would be cool, but whatever is fine. I'll probably put the tower either under my standing desk (>26") or beside it, so no preference on height.

9. Do you need a copy of Windows included in the budget? Note: some post-secondary students can get Windows 10 for free.

Yes. 64-bit

10. Will you be upgrading this PC in the future (ie: will you swap out better parts later on or will you build an entirely new tower later)? If so, when?

If the computer can last at least 6 years without upgrading, that would be solid. Ideally I'd just swap parts, but if the build works, I'll probably gift and/or build another one for my family in the future.

11. Do you have a brand preference? (ex: AMD/Intel for CPUs, AMD/NVIDIA for video cards, etc)

I stream on Twitch with OBS, so I'd like to try NVIDIA if possible. But honestly, if it performs well, I'll take it.

12. What are the specs of your old PC / laptop? Do you want to see if it can be upgraded instead? If so, paste its build from PCPartPicker here.

(2021) Lenovo Legion 5 15ACH6A: AMD Ryzen 5 5600H, AMD Radeon RX 6600M 8GB, 512GB SSD

13. Extra info or particulars:

I'll be giving my current laptop to my dad! I'm mostly happy with it, but I want to upgrade to a PC after using laptops for over a decade lol.
One issue I have currently: Regardless if I stream online or record offline, sometimes the audio is distorted for a few seconds (however, there are no issues with hearing my microphone nor frame dropping). I've never encountered this issue with my older PC (~2015) or when I was using my previous mic (now broken).
I suspect my issues stem from a combination of stream bitrate, too many active USB ports/externals, microphone, or just plain user error. I don't think the issue is related to AMD or sound bitrate necessarily, since the laptop had no issues with streaming in the first few years. But honestly, I don't know, my friends don't know either, and I'm too afraid to change anything more lmao.
I have plans to replace my keyboard, don't worry 🥲 I've gotten many recommendations lmao.
I have no experience with building PCs or comparing parts, so I'd appreciate any advice! One of my friends offered to help build the PC, and I'll be looking up guides too 👍

What will you be doing with this PC? Be as specific as possible, and include specific games or programs you will be using.

VR games like Blade and Sorecy. Computer games like Helldivers 2 or Minecraft (Modded/Resource Packs/Texture Packs). CAD Designing like Solidworks. and Coding for Python or Rust.

What is your maximum budget before rebates/shipping/taxes?

Max is 2500$ Also if it is possible and if it makes a huge difference please add another list if the budget was 3000$.

When do you plan on building/buying the PC? Note: beyond a week or two from today means any build you receive will be out of date when you want to buy.

A week

What, exactly, do you need included in the budget? (ToweOS/monitokeyboard/mouse/etc\)?

I need everything aside from a keyboard/mouse

Which country (and state/province) will you be purchasing the parts in? If you're in US, do you have access to a Microcenter location?

I am in the US. Austin Tx. But I would like to use a PC builder website

If reusing any parts (including monitor(s)/keyboard/mouse/etc), what parts will you be reusing? Brands and models are appreciated.

Nope

Will you be overclocking? If yes, are you interested in overclocking right away, or down the line? CPU and/or GPU?

Yes I am interested in overclocking in the future

Are there any specific features or items you want/need in the build? (ex: SSD, large amount of storage or a RAID setup, CUDA or OpenCL support, etc).

I just need the PC to last me for a while before I need to upgrade.

Do you have any specific case preferences (Size like ITX/microATX/mid-towefull-tower, styles, colors, window or not, LED lighting, etc), or a particular color theme preference for the components?

I prefer either Mid Tower or Full Tower. I don't like RGB, but I don't mind if it does have it as long as it doesn't cost more. Besides that, I like basic colors. Silver, Black, White, Gold, Royal Blue, and Crimison. However, they just need to mesh well.

Do you need a copy of Windows included in the budget?

No.

If you do need one included, do you have a preference?

N/A

Extra info or particulars:

I prefer to have extra cooling and can continue to upgrade the PC and/or have the PC already as best as possible so that I can upgrade it in the future.
Thank you for your amazing help and advice!

I've been on the job search for six months. I've got another few months to go before graduating with my Bachelor of Science in Health Service Administration. I also am interning soon.
I'm honestly feeling super discouraged. I put in 250 applications for an internship and got two interviews. I got a lot of push back from one, not because they didn't think I was a good candidate but because the commute is a bitch from where I am.
I've now put in over 200 applications for entry level positions that I'm qualified for. I have previous experience as a GM and so far I've gotten one single interview and it was for a MLM commission only sales job. Plus it's selling Health Insurance through United and i ethically can't support that company after what they did to me.
So what can I do? I have my Scientific Workforce Prep certifications, and easily can go get a degree in laboratory science.
Now one thing to understand is that Florida is in a recession right now. There's few jobs and those in my fiels require masters degree or a RN degree. I tried to go to nursing school but couldn't get in with a 3.9 GPA.
What do I do. I've had professionals look over my resume and cover letters and they all say they look good.

Hello,
A friend recently told me that I may be eligible for German citizenship through my ancestors.
Over these past 3 weeks, I learned that a "melderegister" was the only document lacking for my application. (GGM and GM did not enter America on a German passport).
For background:
My grandmother was born German and naturalized as a child in United States.
Last week, I ordered the melderegister for GGM and my grandmother and received both of them.
(Also have my GGF's birth certificate.)
Has anyone had any success applying directly for a German passport in the USA through the maternal line?
I spent quite some time in the subreddit last night but couldn't find anyone that has.
Please prove me wrong! A 2 year wait is quite a long time. 😅
Danke schön

**What will you be doing with this PC? Be as specific as possible, and include specific games or programs you will be using.** * Gaming, video editing, coding, would like to be able to run games like cs2, fortnite comfortably on high-ish settings >**What is your maximum budget before rebates/shipping/taxes?** * 300$ For 1 or 2 maybe 3 part upgrades >**When do you plan on building/buying the PC? Note: beyond a week or two from today means any build you receive will be out of date when you want to buy.** * Whenever I can >**What, exactly, do you need included in the budget? (ToweOS/monitokeyboard/mouse/etc\)** * no external accessories >**Which country (and state/province) will you be purchasing the parts in? If you're in US, do you have access to a Microcenter location?** * Yes, A 2 hour drive >**If reusing any parts (including monitor(s)/keyboard/mouse/etc), what parts will you be reusing? Brands and models are appreciated.** * ABS Case, Alienware Monitor, and all external accessories >**Will you be overclocking? If yes, are you interested in overclocking right away, or down the line? CPU and/or GPU?** * Down The line >**Are there any specific features or items you want/need in the build? (ex: SSD, large amount of storage or a RAID setup, CUDA or OpenCL support, etc)** * Good Cpu and Ram, I think my GPU is already ok >**Do you have any specific case preferences (Size like ITX/microATX/mid-towefull-tower, styles, colors, window or not, LED lighting, etc), or a particular color theme preference for the components?** * Dont Need one >**Do you need a copy of Windows included in the budget? If you do need one included, do you have a preference?** * No >**Extra info or particulars:** My current Specs are: Intel Core i5-10400F 2.9 GHz 6-Core Processor Gigabyte B460M DS3H AC-y1 Micro ATX LGA1200 Motherboard Unknown CL16-18-18 D4-3000 2x8GB RAM TEAMGROUP GX2 512 GB 2.5" Solid State Drive NVIDIA Founders Edition GeForce RTX 2060 6 GB Video Card

I dont have to have everything upgraded, I just want a place to start so I can slowly Replace my Parts

The Sixers have the 16th and 41st pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, and out of curiosity I gathered all of the draft picks Daryl Morey has made in his career in Houston and Philadelphia. The following are the picks he made by year:
June 28, 2007: Selected Aaron Brooks (1st round, 26th pick) and Brad Newley (2nd round, 54th pick) in the 2007 NBA Draft.
June 26, 2008: Selected Nicolas Batum (1st round, 25th pick) and Maarty Leunen (2nd round, 54th pick) in the 2008 NBA Draft.
June 24, 2010: Selected Patrick Patterson (1st round, 14th pick) in the 2010 NBA Draft.
June 23, 2011: Selected Marcus Morris (1st round, 14th pick), Nikola Mirotić (1st round, 23rd pick) and Chandler Parsons (2nd round, 38th pick) in the 2011 NBA Draft.
June 28, 2012: Selected Jeremy Lamb (1st round, 12th pick), Royce White (1st round, 16th pick) and Terrence Jones (1st round, 18th pick) in the 2012 NBA Draft.
June 27, 2013: Selected Isaiah Canaan (2nd round, 34th pick) in the 2013 NBA Draft.
June 26, 2014: Selected Clint Capela (1st round, 25th pick) and Nick Johnson (2nd round, 42nd pick) in the 2014 NBA Draft.
June 25, 2015: Selected Sam Dekker (1st round, 18th pick) and Montrezl Harrell (2nd round, 32nd pick) in the 2015 NBA Draft.
June 23, 2016: Selected Chinanu Onuaku (2nd round, 37th pick) and Zhou Qi (2nd round, 43rd pick) in the 2016 NBA Draft.
June 22, 2017: Selected Isaiah Hartenstein (2nd round, 43rd pick) and Dillon Brooks (2nd round, 45th pick) in the 2017 NBA Draft.
June 21, 2018: Selected De'Anthony Melton (2nd round, 46th pick) in the 2018 NBA Draft.
November 18, 2020: Selected Tyrese Maxey (1st round, 21st pick), Théo Maledon (2nd round, 34th pick), Tyler Bey (2nd round, 36th pick), Isaiah Joe (2nd round, 49th pick) and Paul Reed (2nd round, 58th pick) in the 2020 NBA Draft.
July 29, 2021: Selected Jaden Springer (1st round, 28th pick), Filip Petrušev (2nd round, 50th pick) and Charles Bassey (2nd round, 53rd pick) in the 2021 NBA Draft.
June 23, 2022: Selected David Roddy (1st round, 23rd pick) in the 2022 NBA Draft.
Some notable things about Daryl's drafting history:

• Daryl has only made 30 picks in 17 NBA seasons
• Of the 30 picks he's made, 13 were 1st round picks
• The highest pick he has ever made was pick 12, and he has only drafted higher than 16th (this year's pick) three times
• He has actually done an incredible job drafting second round players that go on to have productive careers
• Fun Fact: Sam Hinkie made 15 draft picks in just 3 years as an NBA GM

In summary, I am certain Daryl will trade away our 1st round pick for an established player and sell our 2nd round pick for cash.

What will you be doing with this PC? Be as specific as possible, and include specific games or programs you will be using.

• I will be using this machine for training LLM models.

What is your maximum budget before rebates/shipping/taxes?

• $3000-4000

When do you plan on building/buying the PC? Note: beyond a week or two from today means any build you receive will be out of date when you want to buy.

• Now

What, exactly, do you need included in the budget? (ToweOS/monitokeyboard/mouse/etc)

• Everything except the peripherals (keyboard, mouse, and monitor)

Which country (and state/province) will you be purchasing the parts in? If you're in US, do you have access to a Microcenter location? Florida, US, no Microcenter nearly by If reusing any parts (including monitor(s)/keyboard/mouse/etc), what parts will you be reusing? Brands and models are appreciated.

• Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse

Will you be overclocking? If yes, are you interested in overclocking right away, or down the line? CPU and/or GPU?

• No

Are there any specific features or items you want/need in the build? (ex: SSD, large amount of storage or a RAID setup, CUDA or OpenCL support, etc)

• I'm thinking of building dual RTX 3090, but I'm not sure either dual RTX 3090 or single RTX 4090 is better. I need advice on this.
• I'd prefer a motherboard with 4 PCIe x8/ x16 to prevent thermal throttling between GPU cards and a CPU can support these cards
• A 1000W power supply is good

Do you have any specific case preferences (Size like ITX/microATX/mid-towefull-tower, styles, colors, window or not, LED lighting, etc), or a particular color theme preference for the components?

• No

Extra info or particulars:

• Do I need to buy a NV Links for the dual 3090 cards?
• I need suggestions on CPU, and Motherboard please
• I don't need any aesthetic PC build/case, just fit into the work and I'll be good.
• Any other insights will always be appreciated.

I'm a brand new EV owner. I'm trying to decide which Level 2 charger to install for my Bolt EUV. My electric company has a rebate of up to $500 to purchase a charger so I'm looking for one in that price range and am currently considering the GM PowerUp Ultium and the Emporia. I plan to have it hardwired through the Chevy Qmerit program. I like the smart feature in the Emporia that will calculate the cost of each charge based on my electric rate but read in a reviews that it does not "click" into place. It seems like a small thing but I would like a audible/tactile click as a indicator that it will be ready to charge when the scheduled time comes. I also read that it doesn't fully integrate with the Bolt. I'd imagine that the Powerup Ultium will integrate seamlessly and would not require yet another app but I don't see anything in the reviews about a click. I'm sure there are other things I should be considering and appreciate any advice or perspective.

Isa akong batang laking mahirap. All the kinds of bullying naranasan kona and kahit I am on my adult stage na bakat na bakat padin sa ala ala ko kung ano ang mga napagdaanan ko during my years of schooling.
During my elementary days way back mga 2004-2010, baon ko 2 pesos a day pero hindi pa araw araw may baon. Minsan nag aabot sila mama at papa ng 5 pesos ng monday and that's it for the whole week. I am too innocent in those time kasi Im proud to say na never ako nag cocomplain to my parents regarding that,siguro dahil alam kong wala din naman magbabago if I ask them kasi I know na walang wala din naman talaga sila. Minsan yung mga kaklasmayt ko pa noon tinatawanan ako pag tinutulog ko lang ng recess time namin kahit yung tiyan ko tumutunog sa gutom, while them enjoying their meals and have money on their hands to show off. They don't wanna be friend with me either kasi di ako nakakasabay sa kung anong meron sila kaya ako yung typical na batang PAPASOK sa skul ,UUPO,TAHIMIK at magsasalita lang pag kinakausap. Ang tanging alam ko lang non is disiplinado ako ng mga magulang ko kaya naman never ako nanlimos ng kahit ano or nainvolve sa gulo or na guidance sa skul, if my conflict man non sakin at sa klasmayt ko, umiiwas nalang ako at mananahimik kasi takot akong magkamali eventhough sinasabihan na nila ako "DUWAG" "LAMPA" etc.... One time may pinapa project si teacher sakin that requires money to buy it. Sinabi ko din naman kila mama pero they can't provide so pagpasok ko ng umaga sa skul, sobrang kabado ako kasi lahat sila may maipapasang project and ako lang wala. Then when my name called by our teacher sinabi ko yung totoo but the teacher just say "Baka gusto ako pa magprovide para sayo" sabay tawa. Until then naging hobby na nya akong pagtawanan infront of his co teachers at sa mga students at ako lagi inuutusan taga bunot ng puting buhok nya.🤣 well nakakatawa nalang sya sakin now pag naaalala ko
Fast forward... 2011 Highschool days... I enter highschool like elem na walang wala din. All my things are old, from bag to notebooks, yung lapis ko parang nasa 3 inches nalang ang haba kasi di ko napapalitan. Even my slippers have butas na which is naging reason ng bullying din. Yung ibang klasmayts ko laging kinukwestyon bakit daw ganun di ako mabilhan ng mga magulang ko pero di ko sila sinasagot. Just like elem days, ako yung tipo ng stujanteng tahimik lang sa upuan, kaya ang tingin ng guro namin sakin "MABAIT" pero may mga guro padin na hindi talaga ako nagugustuhan dahil sa bagay na wala ako na meron madalas mga klasmayts ko. Malayo ang skul namin sa mga bahay namin kaya nagbabaon kami ng pang lunch namin. Madalas baon ko araw araw is itlog,pancit canton na isang piraso tapos ginagawa kong pang recess at lunch na yun. Even that thing I was questioned lagi by my klasmayts but I don't answer them. I was so lonely nun kasi wala naman gustong makipagkaibigan sakin, even if may groupings, I was left alone and doing my activity alone. If you guys are wondering how's my marks in school? I was a regular student and never ako na fail sa subject ko kasi yun din habilin ng magulang ko sakin. I was so obedient to my parents even those times na pinag aabsent nila ako para magtrabaho sa bukid at para may baon ako sa school.Then the next day, I will be punished in school for being absent without telling them my reasons. I know how hard my life is kaya nangangako ako sa sarili ko na I have to finish my studies kahit anong mangyari. There are some teachers who love humiliating me in front of many students for the things I have, such meron daw ako shoes na old pero walang socks, butas ang pantalon, and ngilaw na ngilaw ang puting uniporme signs of it being old enough. One thing I am struggling about is yung yellow pad paper, yun kasi gamit namin ng highschool and most of them have it tapos ako pag humihingi ako ayaw din naman ako bigyan, kaya ang ending I'm using notebooks as alternative for it. My teacher would question it again pero same thing, my silence is my response. In those years, teachers are allowed to beat students as sign of disiplina and I was beaten as a punishments for not providing projects and unattended classes dahil sa need ko kumita ng pera para may pambaon. Pag binabalikan ko siya, awang awa ako sa sarili ko. And those people who treated me that bad, I still remember them but I forgave them. Masakit lang pag naaalala ko😭 I just can't imagine na nalagpasan ko siya na ako lang magisa at walang nasandalan even my parents. All those bullying I have received from my society, inako ko lang magisa yun at none from my siblings and parents knows about it.
Fast forward...2015- 2019 College... This one is the most legit na sobrang hirap. Pero bago pa mag umpisa ang semester nun I confront my self na kahit anong mangyari " I have to be a regular students,walang bibitiw at wag na wag babagsak sa kahit anong subjects
1st -2nd year college ko, I tried everything I can, to provide for my own tuition fees and allowances. Yes nagbibigay sila mama at papa pero hindi kasya, minsan 150- 200 lang kaya nila iabot for a week allowance, ang bording house ko laging delayed ang bayad, and my tuition is always on hold kaya laging suki ako ng special exam. Pinasok ko mag work as taga dilig ng halaman and care taker ng isang bar and grill for the night and study in the morning. I have no choice but to do it cause ayokong mag stop sa pagaaral. Kaya naman pag sumasahod ako sa part time ko, binibili ko ng mga sapatos sa shoppee and then I resell it on facebook market online around the city. After my class ng afternoon dun ko sila minimeet up sa city and there I earned money. Tho, of all the efforts and hardships na ginagawa ko still my studies is my top priority. I was so payat sa sobrang pagod, puyat at stress.lagi pa akong nag nose bleeding and I was so worried for my health pero tuloy ang laban. Again, none from my siblings and parents knows about it. I kept it all alone and di din naman sila nag tatanong kasi they thought I am doing fine dahil wala din naman silang narerecieved na reklamo sakin. BULLYING? ofcourse di padin ako nakaligtas jan, I was called "EWW ANG ITIM, MUKHANG MATANDA kasi di nakakapag ahit ng balbas at nakapagpagupit" minsan sasabihin pa nila "Huy kumain ka naman para ka nang kalansay" without knowing my whole story. One time I cried inside the confort room kasi I couldn't help myself na mainggit sa mga classmates ko nun na after class they will be having a talk about san sila mag lulunch if sa Jollibee ba, mcdo or sangyup. Samantalang ako, after class I was so busy meeting people with their orders. Minsan nadadaanan ko pa sila sa fast food having a good time while ako may bitbit na malaking basket puno ng sapatos na idedeliver.🙂 If my mandatory na event sa skul na need attendan, I used to ask people I don't know if may pwede ba akong mahihiraman ng susuotin tapos sasabihin nila try nila hanapan ako pero they then laugh at me afterwards. I feel so ashamed of doing it but I have to. So ayun na nga iniignore ko lang yung mga moment na tinatawanan ako sa looks ko, sa mga bagay na wala ako na meron sila. Basta focused ako sa acads ko nun at sa pagkita ng pera.
During my 3rd yr college. Yung part time kong work nagsara so I was forced to stop working with them na. And so yung pagbebenta ko ng sapatos nalang ginagawa ko. I was so lost that time kasi diko alam ako gagawin ko. Malaking tulong yun sakin lalo na 2yrs nalang kailangan kong tapusin sa pagaaral at mas malaki ang expenses ko na.Isang araw papasok ako ng gate sa skul and there are posters around our campus about scholarships and yung minimum qualified average. I have know idea if abot ba ng average ko dun sa offer ng scholars. so I run towards our registrar to request for a certificate of my grades. My world just stop for a while and I'm in tears kasi naabot nga. 86.04 yung average ko and the asking is 85.0.lang. moving forward, I got the scholarship and it helps me with my tuition fees. Kaya ang pinoproblema ko nalang non is bording house ko. Until meron na namang ibang offered na scholarships sa city so kahit sobrang haba ng pila,tiniis ko kasi I know it will save me. Luckily God is so good to me kaya I got them. That's why sa huling taon na pagaaral bago grumaduate, everything goes well and smooth because of those 3 scholarships. I Gave up selling shoes and focus sa exams nalang until I manage to graduate.....
July 2019.... FINALLY GRADUATED AND A CERTIFIED DEGREE HOLDER OF PSYCHOLOGY....
2024 update about me? I am now in a good path, I took a career that is relevant to my degree and still want exploring more things...

The first interview went pretty well with the assistant manager and everything felt right but the 2nd interview felt like I was sitting in hell.
Honestly so much happened during this second interview but I don’t want to leave a book for you all. The Gm was rude from the start of it didn’t give me his name or greet me even though I did but I let it slide. I never thought high schools really mattered as long as you got a diploma not a certificate of completion until yesterday. My last year of high school I was sent to an alternative school to focus on my gpa and then to come back to my original school but Covid happened before I could come back.
The Gm asked me about why I got sent there thinking it was due to fighting or something else and which I told him a piece why. He then wrote two math questions down and said here it’s simple math. I asked him if he thought I was dumb and I’m not gonna sit here while he insults my intelligence in which his reply was.
“Tell me the truth on why you can’t answer it” he then tells me to sit back down and say “y’all females are too overly sensitive” and gave me the job while the coworkers said I should be excited as I just stared at them. He then says we have calculator at the register for these situations.

Hallo zusammen!
I have been learning German for fun in the last year and a half and have held regular meetings with a small group of English and French learning German citizens and often joked with them that I thought I had German blood.
About 2 months ago, I started building my genealogical tree as a new hobby. It rapidly became a passion and lo and behold, I found out that I do have a German ancestor. He happens to be the closest non-canadian ancestor in my tree (most others are of French origin and further up the tree).
This then lead me to this sub as it would be a great deal for me to have a German passport. (I am a French-Canadian living in Quebec, Canada).
I am very doubtful that my ancestry characteristics would lead to German citizenship (german reunification date, 10 year rule,...), but I figured I would ask the experts here, to confirm or infirm my suspicions.
My 4th great grandfather (4Ggf) was a German Hessian soldier who fought with the British against the French in the American Revolutionary war. He was born around 1750. He married a French Canadian woman in Quebec in 1794.
They had my 3G grandmother (3Ggm) in wedlock in 1799. She married in 1815.
They had my 2G grandfather (2Ggf) in wedlock in 1823. He married in 1854.
They had my Great grandfather (Ggf) in wedlock in 1860. He married in 1891.
They had my grandmother (gm) in 1909. She married in 1930.
They had my father in wedlock in 1931. He married in 1960,
and then had me in wedlock.
My understanding is that : 1) The Hessian soldier (4Ggf) possibly being Prussian would be considered German, even before 1871 ? 2) Both grandmothers would transfer German citizenship to their boy based on Stag5 ?
Please let me know if I have this wrong. Should I have a chance, I will work intensively to get the official documents to confirm all this (Might be nearly impossible to get birth certificate of my 4Ggf, the rest is fairly easy.)
Bonus question: If a chance exists, could I group my 2 sons (23 and 26) in the package ? I never married but their mother and I are still together as common-law.
Thanks for your help.
Edit: Thank you all for the clarifications !

What will you be doing with this PC? Be as specific as possible, and include specific games or programs you will be using.

I want to be able to play apex legends, valo, rainbow six siege, minecraft and the sims but I will likely also use it for my studies and drawing. I also want to get into streaming!

What is your maximum budget before rebates/shipping/taxes?

Currently I have around $3000 AUSD I would PREFER to spend on the pc, so about $2000 USD I believe. However, it can be slightly higher if necessary (around $4,500 AUSD max budget)

When do you plan on building/buying the PC? Note: beyond a week or two from today means any build you receive will be out of date when you want to buy.

I don't plan to built it too soon about two or three weeks…I can purchase the parts from various websites if I plan to buy later. I just mainly want to know what I should get rather than focusing on the where I should get it from!

What, exactly, do you need included in the budget? (ToweOS/monitokeyboard/mouse/etc)

since this is my first pc ever I will probably need everything. Including monitor (or two), keyboard, mouse etc. If they are included I am definitely willing to spend the $1500 AUSD more I mentioned previously as my MAX budget (if recommended).
Need basic stuff like: Case, Motherboard, PSU, GPU, CPU, Cooler, Memory, Plenty of storage Etc.

Which country (and state/province) will you be purchasing the parts in? If you're in US, do you have access to a Microcenter location? I'm from Australia, NSW. Since I dont live in a major city I will likely buy online but I'm unsure of what sites are trustworthy.
If reusing any parts (including monitor(s)/keyboard/mouse/etc), what parts will you be reusing? Brands and models are appreciated. I don't have any.
Will you be overclocking? If yes, are you interested in overclocking right away, or down the line? CPU and/or GPU? probably not.
Are there any specific features or items you want/need in the build? (ex: SSD, large amount of storage or a RAID setup, CUDA or OpenCL support, etc) I personally really would like the NZXT Kraken Elite 360 in it since it can show cute images and I also want plenty of storage.
What type of network connectivity do you need? (Wired and/or WiFi) If WiFi is needed and you would like to find the fastest match for your wireless router, please list any specifics.

Wifi, no specifics.

Do you have any specific case preferences (Size like ITX/microATX/mid-towefull-tower, styles, colors, window or not, LED lighting, etc), or a particular color theme preference for the components? I would like a pink and white pc. (Mainly white with Rgb lights that can turn pink). I would appreciate the case being white only, with as much visibility as possible, and likely tempered glass. I hate when you can't see anything on the sides at all. E.g this type of case I prefer something like this case or where there is just glass on the side to show the inside better.
Do you need a copy of Windows included in the budget? If you do need one included, do you have a preference? Yes, please. No preference!
Extra info or particulars: If you have trusted Australian websites for anything gaming related please let me know! Also I dont know anything about mics, mic stands, headphones, or gaming chairs ( prefer them pink or white) if you recommend any let me know about them too. I want both power and aesthetics in my pc if possible!