I currently work in finance and I’m thinking about applying to the part time M.S. in finance program. My undergrad degree was in an unrelated field and I want to sure up my academic knowledge. I’ve got in touch with admissions but they haven’t given me much info beyond basic marketing materials.
Is anyone currently in the program or has completed the program?
If so: 1) What were your experiences? 2) Was the teaching quality high? 3) What kind of employers recruit out of the program / out of Mason? 4) where you considering other programs? 5) what was your background when applying?
Also, if any undergrads at Mason want to share their experience with recruiting or the quality of the school I’d be interested in hearing from you too.
Thanks!

Anyone else get copd at a young age from work environments? What did you do? What resources did you use? Did you find another job? Get disability? Work comp?
I (30m) was recently diagnosed with COPD. I’ve been at my job for 10 years. Pretty dusty environment. Chemical dust, talc dust, “normal” dust etc. and a fair amount of chemical fumes. Think body shop smells. Styrene, resin, epoxy, etc.
Doc thinks it was almost certainly my work atmosphere that caused it. It’s a good job, 5 mins from home in a small town without a lot of career opportunities. If I stay here, another 5-10 years, I’ll be making probably about triple the average income for my area. However, it will probably exacerbate my symptoms.
I own a home, with a mortgage, and have two kids under two. I can’t exactly take a pay cut to find a different job, and there are zero options within the same field, as we are the only company within 200 miles that does what we do.
This is very new, so I haven’t talked to my employer yet, as I’m Just trying to navigate the possibilities as of now.
Thanks for your input!

- May 20, 2024

The Good

• Revenue Growth: Total revenue grew 15% year-over-year, driven by 20% growth in service revenue.
• Next-Generation Security ARR: Showed a robust 47% growth.
• Operating Margin: Expanded by 200 basis points, driving 25% growth in operating income.
• EPS Growth: Non-GAAP EPS grew by 20%, reaching $1.32.
• Innovation: Launched several new products and AI security offerings, positioning the company at the forefront of AI security.
• Customer Engagement: Significant increase in customer meetings and platformization conversations, with a 30% increase in meetings.
• Large Deals: Closed several significant transactions, including the largest in the company's history at nearly $150 million TCV.
• Partnerships: Announced a significant partnership with IBM, enhancing the company's capabilities and market reach.
• Geographical Growth: Revenue growth across all regions, with EMEA leading at 20%.

The Bad

• Billing Metrics: Billings grew only 3%, which is significantly lower compared to revenue growth and other metrics.
• JPAC Growth: Lower growth in the JPAC region, driven by lower product bookings offset by higher subscription bookings.
• Deferred Payments: Increased volume of deferred payments impacting immediate financial metrics.
• Platformization Impact: The accelerated platformization strategy will continue to impact billings and revenue growth through fiscal year 2025.

The Ugly

• Market Reaction: Despite strong financial performance and innovation, market reaction has been surprisingly negative.
• Customer Transition: Complexity in transitioning customers to platformized models, including free use periods and ramp contracts, which can delay revenue recognition.
• Interest Rate Environment: Higher cost of money impacting customer payment terms and the company's financial planning.
• Visibility on Metrics: Difficulty in tracking and interpreting traditional metrics like billings due to changes in payment terms and deferred billing.

Earnings Breakdown:

Financial Metrics

• Total Revenue: $1.98 billion, representing 15% year-over-year growth.
• Product Revenue: Grew 1%.
• Service Revenue: Grew 20%.
  • Subscription Revenue: Grew 25%.
  • Support Revenue: Grew 11%.
• Geographical Revenue Growth:
  • Americas: Grew 15%.
  • EMEA: Grew 20%.
  • JPAC: Grew 8%.
• Billings: Grew 3%.
• Next-Generation Security Annual Recurring Revenue (NGS ARR): Grew 47%.
• Remaining Performance Obligation (RPO): Grew 23%, reaching $11.3 billion.
  • Current RPO: $5.4 billion.
• Operating Margin: Expanded by 200 basis points, driving 25% growth in operating income.
• Non-GAAP EPS: Grew 20% to $1.32.
• Cash Generation: Strong, with GAAP net income growing substantially year-over-year.
• Debt Reduction: Paid down debt by $659 million.
• Share Repurchase: Spent $500 million to repurchase 1.7 million shares.
• Finance Receivables: Up 34% sequentially.

Product Metrics

• New Product Launches:
  • AI Security Suite:
    • AI Access Security
    • AI SPM
    • AI Runtime Security
  • SASE 3.0:
    • Secure enterprise browser integrated into SASE.
    • AI-powered data security with LLM-powered data classification.
    • Application acceleration improving performance up to 5 times.
  • Prisma Cloud:
    • Data Security Posture Management
    • Support for 100+ new APIs
    • Cloud Discovery and Exposure Management
    • Cloud Detection and Response (CDR)
  • Cortex:
    • XSIAM with $400 million in cumulative bookings.
• Customer Engagement:
  • 30% increase in customer meetings.
  • 65 incremental platformization sales in Q3, up 40% from Q2.
• Significant Transactions:
  • Largest transaction in company history at nearly $150 million TCV.
  • Seven-figure deals with U.S. county agency and large U.S. financial services company.
  • Eight-figure deal with global data services provider.

Source: Upgraded AI Assistant (Release date: May 27, 2024)

So I played Astral Chain over 2 years ago and loved it, I’m gonna break down why the game is so great.
Story: Astral Chain has the best story I’ve seen in any platinum game, period. Mgr and Bayo 1 are some of my favourites but those games stories are good in a way that feels somewhat ironic. Mgr is a huge satire, the actual plot of the game is very simple and not all that engaging, instead it feels more like a commentary than an engaging narrative. Bayo 1’s story is so weird and incomprehensible that it ends up being great through how wacky it is. Astral chain though, its story is just good. Not fantastic, but good. The characterisation is actually present, the character arcs are interesting, there’s mystery, emotional moments, and very subtle themes throughout its writing. Astral chain is probably (except god of war) the best crafted narrative I’ve seen in a character action game (even if it isn’t the most memorable).
Gameplay: to be honest, calling astral chain a character action game doesn’t feel too warranted. This is a game with a lot of different gameplay styles in comparison to its peers. Every level has open zones to explore, charming optional side quests (most do not affect your rank if you skip them). Any side content that does affect your rank is often combat focussed, or a mini game that is much better designed than anything you’ll see in bayonetta 1. You also have platforming sections, which are not a strong suit, but are at least engaging in my opinion, they employ your abilities in interesting ways and it never felt like it was taking up too much time away from the action. On top of all this, you of course have the platinum combat system, and it’s amazing. Various abilities, different customisations for your moves, the openness of combos (it feels amazing to air juggle an enemy as both you and your legion puppet kick ass together). The animations in this game are fantastic and every single weapon you get feels interesting and useful (despite axe clearly being the best legion). There are a BUNCH of enemy types, the boss battles are very good too (not mgr or Bayo level, but still very good), and I like how astral chain feels different to other action games. In astral chain, your health bar is very small, this is simply because you are playing as a human, you are not a demigod witch or cyborg powerhouse, so enemies can kill you very quickly. Enemies are therefore slower while dealing bigger damage, giving combat a higher stakes, more risky feel as opposed to a pure power rush (although of course you can still kick ass in this game, don’t get that twisted). Overall, astral chain is another platinum game that has gimmicks, which is what us platinum fans always complain about, but it is my opinion that astral chain implements these gimmicks in ways that are superior to its siblings - they are less frustrating and the ranking system is more generous (dying to an instakill on a motorcycle mini game will not affect your rank, you simply restart the checkpoint). Rankings also encourage creativity over perfection - you WILL get hit during combat, so the game doesn’t punish your for it too hard, instead it rewards big damage combos, and using as much of your toolset as possible.
Style: this is where astral chain falls slightly short and probably why it isn’t revered as much as Bayo dmc or mgr. all those three games have a sense of style that is incredible, Bayo is camp, dmc is also camp, and mgr is a satirical camp. All feel distinct and just infectious in their tone. Astral chain’s tone is more serious and less over the top (it still has some very funny moments though), and it wears its 90s cyberpunk anime influence (most notably evangelion) on its sleeve - this is definitely contributing to my love for the game. Despite its tone not being too memorable, the visuals are fantastic for a fast paced Nintendo switch exclusive action game. It has a cell shaded, anime cyberpunk art style that is simply gorgeous and honestly quite shocking in terms of how good this Nintendo game can look at times.
Conclusion: if you own a switch play astral chain. It’s awesome, oh and when you’re thinking about the best action games tier lists, keep astral chain in your thoughts. Ty for reading!

Their application requirements page states: “The single set of test scores that you submit with your application are the only set of scores we will use. You must meet the minimum requirements in one sitting. We do not require applicants to declare their most recent MCAT test date as long as the test date that they are declaring meets the minimum requirements, and was not written prior to October 1, 2018.”
Does this mean that as long as it’s within the past 5 years, I can use my best MCAT score, even if it’s not the most recent one?

27f and I feel like giving up. I fought so hard to escape my childhood circumstances, but not enough to propel my life forward anymore. I don’t feel like I have the energy to amount to anything and everything I try to do, it never works out. I don’t want to think like this but I can’t rewire my brain out of my lived experience. I thought this was part of the dark night of the soul people talk about in recovery groups but it’s been years.
I should feel successful I think? I am finally renting a place alone. I have my own car and no debt. I was lucky enough to travel for work.
These things aside I can’t keep a relationship, they usually start out intense and then fade out once people know the true me which is introverted and avoidant. I constantly live in threat my clients will quit on me (I’m self employed), I never have enough executive function to work or cook or exercise. CPTSD has me wasting my life away in real time.
I am so over living like this but I don’t know how I can break out of it.

Questions

Is this a brand new build, or an upgrade to an existing build?

Brand new

Please list any existing parts or monitor(s) you have that you would like to re-use with this build. For upgrades, a PCPartPicker list of your full build is extremely helpful. Be as specific as you can be here, including links or exact model numbers of each component whenever possible.

Brother has a sim racing seat with single screen mounted. will want to use Meta Quest 2 for VR with iracing and other racing sims

What will this PC be used for? Examples include things like gaming, general/multimedia use, photo/video editing, coding, AI/ML, etc. Include specific games and applications you intend to run, and any particular performance goals you have, as each may have different specific hardware needs.

VR performance, minimum 60 fps, preferable to have 90 fps plus. He would like to mostly run sim racing games and American truck sim as well. I would say minimum 1080p but would prefer 1440p (or equivalent in VR headset)

What country will you be purchasing in? If you are in the US, do you live near a Micro Center? For other countries, please check if your country is supported by PCPartPicker by using the country selector dropdown on the top right - if not, please provide some links to reliable local vendors you are comfortable ordering from.

Canada

Do you need one or more monitors included in the budget? Please list how many and any size/resolution/refresh rate preferences if needed.

No monitor or other peripherals required

What is your preferred and maximum budget range for this build, in local currency? Parts lists may sometimes have additional shipping costs. Please note whether prices in your country include sales tax or not, and adjust your budget accordingly. Typically VAT countries will have it included in the part list prices, whereas regular sales tax countries like the US and Canada will not.

$1200 CAD max would be the budget

Do you need WiFi, or do you have a wired ethernet connection available?

both available but I would say to include a Mobo with at least wifi 6E or a wifi card (or usb dongles if they are any good)

Do you have any specific size or noise requirements for the build?

no size requirement but preferable microATX mini tower...I'm sure he would take the cheaper option even if it is full ATX tower. No noise requirements

Do you have any aesthetic preferences for color or lighting? Describe what you're looking for, or feel free to provide some links to examples that may help. Some people prefer an inobtrusive stealth build, while others may prefer a case full of rainbow RGB.

Zero preference, functionality is key

Any other specific requests or requirements? Examples might include a specific minimum amount of storage, or a particular CPU socket for a future upgrade path, etc.

Like I said, VR performance is key. however I would argue that the PC would also be good as a streaming machine as it will sit in the garage and maybe could be paired with a nice handheld for streaming it.

In today’s world, understanding human behavior is crucial. However, two distinct approaches often cause confusion: mainstream evolutionary psychology and the ideas presented by Iain McGilchrist in his book "The Master and His Emissary." While both seek to explain aspects of human behavior and thought, they do so from vastly different perspectives. Let's break down these concepts in a way that’s easy to understand, particularly focusing on how McGilchrist explains the evolution of the brain.

Mainstream Evolutionary Psychology

What is it? Mainstream evolutionary psychology focuses on understanding how our psychological traits and behaviors have evolved. Imagine it as a detective story, where scientists try to figure out why we think and act the way we do by looking at how our ancestors lived and survived.
Key Ideas:

• Adaptation: Many human behaviors and mental processes are seen as adaptations to the environments our ancestors lived in. This includes things like our fear of snakes (which could have been a survival mechanism) or our preference for sweet foods (which provided energy).
• Universal Behaviors: It looks for behaviors that are common across all humans, suggesting that these behaviors are rooted in our evolutionary past.

How Do They Study It? Researchers in this field use a combination of studies on human behavior, comparisons with other animals, and insights from evolutionary theory to build their understanding.

Iain McGilchrist's "The Master and His Emissary"

What is it? Iain McGilchrist's book takes a different approach. He explores how the two hemispheres of our brain—the right and the left—perceive and interact with the world in distinct ways. Think of it as a story about two characters in your brain with different personalities and jobs.
Key Ideas:

• The Right Hemisphere (The Master): According to McGilchrist, the right hemisphere is holistic, meaning it looks at the big picture. It’s good at understanding context, relationships, and the broader meaning of things.
• The Left Hemisphere (The Emissary): The left hemisphere is more focused on details and analytical thinking. It’s great at breaking things down into parts, categorizing, and focusing on specifics.
• Cultural Impact: McGilchrist argues that Western culture has become overly dominated by the left hemisphere's way of thinking, leading to a more fragmented and analytical approach to the world, at the expense of the right hemisphere's holistic and integrative view.

The Evolution of the Brain According to McGilchrist

This is where some confusion arises. McGilchrist's explanation of brain evolution is not the same as the typical evolutionary psychology narrative.
Mainstream View of Brain Evolution:

• Incremental Development: Evolutionary psychologists often explain the brain's evolution as a series of incremental adaptations to environmental challenges. This involves the development of specific brain regions and functions that helped our ancestors survive and reproduce.
• Functional Specialization: Different parts of the brain evolved to handle different tasks, such as language, memory, and social behavior. This specialization helped our ancestors navigate complex social environments and improve their chances of survival.

McGilchrist's View of Brain Evolution:

• Hemispheric Specialization: McGilchrist focuses on how the two hemispheres of the brain evolved to handle different types of tasks. He suggests that this specialization goes beyond simple functional differences and influences our entire way of experiencing the world.
• Master-Emissary Relationship: He describes the right hemisphere as the "Master" because it provides a holistic, context-aware understanding of reality, while the left hemisphere, the "Emissary," deals with details and analysis. He argues that this relationship has evolved to balance our perception and action, but modern culture has skewed heavily towards the left hemisphere's way of thinking.
• Cultural Evolution: McGilchrist posits that cultural and historical developments have been significantly shaped by the dominance of one hemisphere over the other, affecting everything from art and science to social structures and individual well-being.

Why McGilchrist's Work Is Not Evolutionary Psychology

The confusion often arises because understanding McGilchrist's work requires a grasp of how brain hemispheres function and influence psychology through neural activation patterns. Additionally, it involves understanding brain structures and how these contribute to our interpreted actions.
1. Different Focus:

• Evolutionary Psychology: Focuses on specific psychological traits and their evolutionary origins. It looks at universal human behaviors that have developed as adaptations.
• McGilchrist’s Work: Centers on how the functional specialization of brain hemispheres influences cognition and culture, exploring the broader implications of hemispheric dominance.

2. Methodology:

• Evolutionary Psychology: Utilizes empirical research, comparative studies, and evolutionary theory to build its understanding. It tests hypotheses about human behavior through scientific methods.
• McGilchrist’s Approach: Employs an interdisciplinary approach, synthesizing information from various fields and offering interpretative analysis. His work is more about integrating insights from neuroscience, psychology, philosophy, and history.

3. Theoretical Foundations:

• Evolutionary Psychology: Grounded in the principles of Darwinian evolution, focusing on adaptations and survival mechanisms. It seeks to explain psychological traits as evolved solutions to ancestral problems.
• McGilchrist’s Theories: Focus on the qualitative differences in hemispheric processing and their cultural implications. His work is not primarily about evolutionary adaptations but rather about how different modes of thinking have shaped human history and culture.

Conclusion

While both mainstream evolutionary psychology and Iain McGilchrist’s work seek to understand human behavior and brain function, they operate in fundamentally different domains. Evolutionary psychology provides insight into the adaptive nature of psychological traits, grounded in empirical research and evolutionary theory. In contrast, McGilchrist offers a unique perspective on how the brain’s hemispheres contribute to our cognitive processes and cultural development, employing a more interpretative and interdisciplinary approach.
Understanding these differences helps to appreciate the distinct contributions of each perspective, enriching our overall comprehension of the complex tapestry of human thought and behavior. McGilchrist’s work is a valuable addition to the broader field of psychology and neuroscience, but it stands apart from the empirical and adaptation-focused framework of evolutionary psychology.

Here are some of the Ayah in Al Qur’an al Kareem, which can be recited to ensure happiness in marriage: Ayatul Kursi for Marriage .
There is no doubt that it is one of the most favoured verses in the whole of the Quran and is in the second Surah Al-Baqarah, 255 verse. This verse can be considered as one of the most attractive ones as it brings many advantages and protection to the person who chants this verse. It may help in making one believe in God, lessen the impact of fear, beseech for pardon with the Almighty God, and bring happiness in marriage.
Ayatul Kursi for Marriage , Ayat Al-Kursi is a verse taken from the Quran which is interpreted to mean the ‘Verse of the Power’ or ‘Verse of the Throne’. Marriage itself, of course, has many advantages when a man reads Ayatul Kursi.
There are several benefits that Ayatul Kursi offers for married couples or those hoping to get married:Thus, it becomes clear that Ayatul Kursi has many advantages for married couple or those who want to be married:

1. It is therefore important to call for a Righteous Partner in order to fight those forces that destroy the society and create chaos.

For the single people who are awaiting to have a partner so that they could have their own children and spouse, there is a Sunnah which says that one should recite Ayatul Kursi and seek a lawful, righteous partner as coveted by Allah (SWT). Thus, the verse effectively acts as a means of turning what could be a fantasy of having a spouse into a reality. When reciting these incantations, it is not just lip service but true and genuine commitment, then good luck is on the way of getting a good life partner.

1. Building up the affair with your partner

It is also advised in the advice for those who are dear to Allah which means that, married couples should wake up before the break of the Sun, and start by reading Ayatul Kursi before their partner and then embrace them when they are done with it. This verse is employed to invoke Allah (SWT) into the marriage with the aim of making the partners feel content and to discourage the couple from quarreling or even divorcing. The barakah in the Ayatul Kursi also generates affection, tenderness and optimism between the couple.

1. Resolves Marital Conflicts

It is also useful in managing conflicts arising between a husband and wife, due to the fact that it is Ayatul Kursi. Repeating it can aid in addressing conflicts before they intensify to an argument or physical confrontation. As with other verses, this one continues with the message of patience, forgiveness, and being mindful of Allah (SWT), it brings back the couple’s reminder that as Muslims, they have to learn to patiently forgive each other, and to remember and obey Allah (SWT).

1. It also assists in safeguarding against external interference more so in ensuring that clients do not stray from their objectives.

Also, such a prayer safeguards a marriage from one’s partner jealousy, evil eye, black magic which can be sent on a couple in order to separate them, etc. The recitation aids in calling on Allah (SWT) and affirming that he is the best guard of the marriage and no calamity shall be inflicted on it through witchcraft, etc.
Effect of Ayatul Kursi Recitals for Marriage & Process
Ayatul Kursi for Marriage , To fully benefit from the blessings of Ayatul Kursi for a marriage, there are some etiquettes to follow:The following are some recommended etiquettes for the use of Ayatul Kursi to ensure that the couple gets the best results out of it for their marriage:
• It is recommended to recite them after Fazr prayers which are offered early in the morning. This comes with maximum barakah for the day that is ahead in the future.
• Chant with emotions, intentions, ideas and sincerity. Spend some time to reflect on the words and their actual mean and try to discover the power behind it.
Finally give the blessings and blow lightly three times on the palms and pour the bless-ings over your spouse, yourself and the entire family. This distributes divine grace where it is needed the most.
Therefore, when a husband and wife conducts the act of reciting Ayatul Kursi for their marriage, such as marriage problems or disputes or, least, Allah (SWT)’s innumerable blessings can flow from the lovers’ couple. Therefore, it should be carried out every morning for a happy marriage, insha Allah.
Online Free Consultation With Maulana Ji Please Visit:
https://www.onlinemaulana.com/

AyatulKursi #MarriageBlessings #IslamicWedding #LoveandFaith #MuslimCouples #MaritalBliss #DivineProtection #SacredBlessings #QuranicSupplication #HappyMarriageJourney #SpiritualBond #MarriageGoals #BlessedUnion #PowerOfPrayer #WeddingWishes #KeyToHappyMarriage #AyahofProtection #MarriageDuas #SacredScriptures #PrayersForMarriage

If I wait around for someone who actually has knowledge about this topic, I'll prob get a reply by the time I'm graduating from uni so don't hesitate to answer my question after you read and get a general picture of my situation, whoever you are.
I got a score of 1260 out of 1600, in May D-SAT (640 from the Reading and Writing Section and 620 from the Math Section). I'm taking it again in the 1st of July. Unlike pretty much everyone else, I'm not taking the SAT for applying to a Uni/College in the US. I'm gonna use it to apply to a school in Istanbul, Turkey.
I'm Turkish, I live in Turkey and in our country we have a national university exam. It's the kinda exam that consumes students' joy of life throughout 12th grade and in terms of level of difficulty, SAT is nothing compared to it. It's the product of a corrupt system anyway; on average, turkish students who take the test are able to answer only 7 questions of math out of 40. It's literally designed for failure; the questions are meant to be unperceived. And if you wanna study in Turkey (which I do) or if you, financially, don't have a chance to study abroad, you gotta study hard and take it. But I learned that those of us who have another citizenship, other than the Turkish one, have alternatives. I was born in the US therefore have a USA citizenship. I'm a dual citizen. The alternative way for me is renouncing my Turkish citizenship, becoming American only, taking the SAT and applying with the score I get from it, as if I'm a foreigner who wishes to study here. Anyone who has such chance would jump on it and that's what I'm doing. But since this is a procedure that's done so rarely, what I must achieve to guarantee acceptance isn't so clear. This kinda leaves me in an uncertainty. I was able to find the minimum scores some universities I'm considering, require for applying: A uni requires min. 1200 (min. 650 from Maths), another one requires min. 1100 (min. 550 from Maths), another requires min. 1300 (min. 680 from Maths). The reason why they also have requirements specifically for the Math section of the SAT is bcuz the major I want to study is Architecture, that's why. Anyway, a college I'm also considering requires 1000 (min. 600 from the Maths) for application. I have two other colleges in mind but I just can't find the base points they necessitate. I know that my worries probably seem unnecessary when you look at these numbers cuz my performance seems fine but there are some important points that must be taken into consideration, as well: The Turkish Ministry of Education has established a certain quota for studying Architecture as a foreign student. And as if that quota isn't limitating enough, schools themselves are given the freedom to reduce that quota as they wish, so they do! Consequently, the quotas of the Architecture programs of these schools I'm looking into, range from 3 to 40, in a country with a population of 85 million lol (One of these published quotas is 3 students, another is 4, another's 15, another's 30 and another one's 40). But that's not all; also, they're not obligated to fill that quota they determine, to the brim, so they don't! Additionally, there's the fact that these are only the D-SAT scores that are required for applying (u need a score higher than the established minimums so that they don't immediately throw ur application in the trash can). It's not like u can start packing once your SAT score exceeds those published min.s. The way I see it, there's no guarantee of anything unless you get a score as high as 1400, 1500 or a perfect 1600. But obvi I'm not sure if "the way I see it" is accurate. So I wanted to ask you redditors about your thoughts. What do you think??
Approx. what score would be ideal for me, in ur opinion?
Thank you in advance :)

I develop, manage, and scale online businesses.
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• PHP shopping carts (Opencart, Prestashop etc)
• Multi vendor, SaaS and development of custom platforms
• Physical products/shipping/tracking or Digital products
• Booking/Membership/Subscription
• Custom Analytics/Reports
• Custom payment method and checkout
• Custom features for front-end (customers) or back-end (less management, more productivity) experience
• APIs/Payment gateway integration (ex. Stripe, Paypal, BTC/Crypto Wallets)
• Chat/Bot/AI integration
• Automation/Data Scraping requirements for your online shop
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• Small, mid-scale hosting included (you just need to provide a domain address)
• can work with Google cloud, AWS and other cloud services
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I provide assistance throughout the entire lifecycle of your website, from planning, building, running, and maintaining. I specialize in managing the technical aspects of your shop and remain dedicated and reachable until your business achieves its first sale.
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email contact is hello_thomasino(@tuta .io) (better notification in email) the reddit chat/message can be buggy at times. please send your information direct to my email instead. it is a more reassuring method to be connected. You can also reach me via chat applications afterwards.
dm me for more in-depth details and discussion. please include a brief description of your job offer. If you are looking for a easy to work with guy and can carry all technical tasks for web then you’ve found the right place.

If I wait around for someone who actually has knowledge about this topic, I'll prob get a reply by the time I'm graduating from uni so don't hesitate to answer my question after you read and get a general picture of my situation, whoever you are.
I got a score of 1260 out of 1600, in May D-SAT (640 from the Reading and Writing Section and 620 from the Math Section). I'm taking it again in the 1st of July. Unlike pretty much everyone else, I'm not taking the SAT for applying to a Uni/College in the US. I'm gonna use it to apply to a school in Istanbul, Turkey.
I'm Turkish, I live in Turkey and in our country we have a national university exam. It's the kinda exam that consumes students' joy of life throughout 12th grade and in terms of level of difficulty, SAT is nothing compared to it. It's the product of a corrupt system anyway; on average, turkish students who take the test are able to answer only 7 questions of math out of 40. It's literally designed for failure; the questions are meant to be unperceived. And if you wanna study in Turkey (which I do) or if you, financially, don't have a chance to study abroad, you gotta study hard and take it. But I learned that those of us who have another citizenship, other than the Turkish one, have alternatives. I was born in the US therefore have a USA citizenship. I'm a dual citizen. The alternative way for me is renouncing my Turkish citizenship, becoming American only, taking the SAT and applying with the score I get from it, as if I'm a foreigner who wishes to study here. Anyone who has such chance would jump on it and that's what I'm doing. But since this is a procedure that's done so rarely, what I must achieve to guarantee acceptance isn't so clear. This kinda leaves me in an uncertainty. I was able to find the minimum scores some universities I'm considering, require for applying: A uni requires min. 1200 (min. 650 from Maths), another one requires min. 1100 (min. 550 from Maths), another requires min. 1300 (min. 680 from Maths). The reason why they also have requirements specifically for the Math section of the SAT is bcuz the major I want to study is Architecture, that's why. Anyway, a college I'm also considering requires 1000 (min. 600 from the Maths) for application. I have two other colleges in mind but I just can't find the base points they necessitate. I know that my worries probably seem unnecessary when you look at these numbers cuz my performance seems fine but there are some important points that must be taken into consideration, as well: The Turkish Ministry of Education has established a certain quota for studying Architecture as a foreign student. And as if that quota isn't limitating enough, schools themselves are given the freedom to reduce that quota as they wish, so they do! Consequently, the quotas of the Architecture programs of these schools I'm looking into, range from 3 to 40, in a country with a population of 85 million lol (One of these published quotas is 3 students, another is 4, another's 15, another's 30 and another one's 40). But that's not all; also, they're not obligated to fill that quota they determine, to the brim, so they don't! Additionally, there's the fact that these are only the D-SAT scores that are required for applying (u need a score higher than the established minimums so that they don't immediately throw ur application in the trash can). It's not like u can start packing once your SAT score exceeds those published min.s. The way I see it, there's no guarantee of anything unless you get a score as high as 1400, 1500 or a perfect 1600. But obvi I'm not sure if "the way I see it" is accurate. So I wanted to ask you redditors about your thoughts. What do you think??
Approx. what score would be ideal for me, in ur opinion?
Thank you in advance :)

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TL;DR: 35 year-old making 75k a year. I have an adequate emergency fund. I’m contributing 14% into my company’s 401k (7% of which is Roth Basic). I only have $22.5k in my 401k due to paying off debt aggressively. I am now completely debt free. What can I be doing better and can my money be working harder?
I’m a 35 y/o male in Dallas, TX who hasn’t really had a “decent” job until about 5 years ago. I would consider myself a cheapskate who lives pretty frugally. My total monthly (rent + all bills/payments) expenses are around $1,650. No kids.
Right now, I make 75k. I usually get small (2k-5k) cost of living bumps every year. A few years ago, I got a title bump and my salary went up 20k and a raise will most likely happen again in a few years given the field I’m in.
Since last year, I’ve been contributing 14% into my work’s combined 401k / Profit Sharing plan in a Fidelity Freedom 2055 Fund. I have 7% in a Roth Basic and 7% in an “Employee Deferral” (I think the latter is just the name for a normal 401k?). I also don’t really know which plan is best for my situation. My employer matches 50% of the first 3% of pay I defer, not to exceed $1,500. I become 100% vested next year (currently 80% vested) in our employer contributions / profit sharing plan. Do I need a Roth IRA in addition to my 401k if I’m not maxing it out at the moment?
Currently, my 401k sits at $32.5k. It’s much lower than I’d like because I used any extra income to aggressively pay off loans (see next text block).
Over the pandemic, half of my income went to paying off all student loan and credit card debt. Today, I am completely debt free.
I have about $14.5k in my checking account and $1,000 in my bank’s saving account. I consider most of the $14.5k my “emergency funds.” I’m sure there’s a better place to that fund than in my checking account. Should I put my emergency fund in a HYSA?
I’d love to hear how I can be doing better. Can my money be working harder for me?
Do I need a high-yield savings account? A Roth IRA in addition to my 401k? Should I be throwing more into my retirement account? Should I be investing in an index fund or a target date fund right now?
As someone who knows very little about money, reading the personal finance wiki was super helpful, but a lot of this still makes my head spin. Thanks for any advice!

What are the hacks to solve excavator problems? Excavators are essential heavy machinery in the construction industry, playing a pivotal role in various tasks, from digging trenches to lifting heavy materials. However, like any complex equipment, excavators can encounter problems that hinder their performance and efficiency. In this guide, we will explore common excavator issues and provide innovative hacks to solve them effectively. Whether you’re a seasoned construction professional or a beginner, these solutions can save you time, money, and headaches.
The Importance of Excavators in Construction
Excavators are the backbone of construction sites, enabling tasks that range from digging foundations to demolishing structures. Their versatility and power make them indispensable for a wide array of projects, from residential to commercial. Given their crucial role, any disruption in their functioning can lead to project delays and increased costs.
Common Excavator Issues
Excavators, like any machinery, are prone to wear and tear due to heavy usage. Common issues include hydraulic system leakage, engine overheating, slow or inefficient operation, and unusual noises. Addressing these problems promptly is essential to maintain project timelines and ensure worker safety.
Maintenance: The Key to Preventing Problems
Regular Inspections and Lubrication
One of the most effective ways to prevent excavator problems is through regular maintenance. Conducting thorough inspections at designated intervals can help identify potential issues before they escalate. Regular lubrication of moving parts ensures smoother operation and reduces the risk of wear and tear.
Proper Cleaning and Storage
Cleaning your excavator after each use not only keeps it looking presentable but also helps prevent the buildup of dirt and debris that can cause problems over time. Proper storage in a sheltered area shields the machinery from harsh weather conditions, extending its lifespan.
Hacks for Common Excavator Problems
Problem #1: Hydraulic System Leakage
Identifying the Issue
Hydraulic system leakage can lead to decreased efficiency and even safety hazards. Identifying the source of the leak is the first step in addressing this problem.
Hack #1: Temporary Sealant Application
In cases of minor leaks, applying a temporary sealant to the affected area can provide a quick fix. However, this should only be used as a temporary measure until proper repairs can be made.
Hack #2: Replacement of Damaged Seals
For more substantial leaks, damaged seals are often the culprit. Replacing these seals promptly can prevent further leakage and ensure the hydraulic system’s proper functioning.
Long-Term Solution: Preventative Maintenance
Regularly inspecting hydraulic hoses and seals for signs of wear and tear can help catch potential issues before they become major leaks. Employing preventative maintenance strategies, such as keeping hydraulic fluid at the recommended levels, can extend the longevity of your excavator’s hydraulic system.
Problem #2: Engine Overheating
Identifying the Issue
Engine overheating can result from a variety of factors, including clogged radiators, low coolant levels, or malfunctioning fans.
Hack #1: Cleaning the Radiator and Cooling System
Regularly cleaning the radiator and cooling system prevents the accumulation of dirt and debris that can obstruct proper airflow and lead to overheating.
Hack #2: Monitoring Coolant Levels
Maintaining the correct coolant levels is crucial for preventing engine overheating. Monitor these levels consistently and top up as needed.
Long-Term Solution: Routine Cooling System Checks
Incorporating routine cooling system checks into your maintenance schedule helps identify and rectify issues that could lead to engine overheating. This can save you from costly repairs down the line.
Problem #3: Slow or Inefficient Operation
Identifying the Issue
Slow or inefficient operation can stem from various factors, including low hydraulic fluid levels and clogged filters.
Hack #1: Checking Hydraulic Fluid Levels
Ensuring that hydraulic fluid is at the recommended level is vital for optimal excavator performance. Low fluid levels can result in sluggish operation.
Hack #2: Inspecting and Cleaning Filters
Clogged filters can impede the flow of hydraulic fluid and affect excavator efficiency. Regularly inspecting and cleaning filters can enhance performance.
Long-Term Solution: Scheduled Fluid Replacement
Incorporate scheduled hydraulic fluid replacement into your maintenance routine. This prevents a gradual decline in fluid quality, ensuring consistent excavator performance.
Problem #4: Unusual Noises
Identifying the Issue
Unusual noises can indicate underlying problems within the excavator’s components.
Hack #1: Tightening Loose Components
Vibrations and heavy usage can cause bolts and other components to become loose, resulting in strange noises. Regularly check and tighten these components as needed.
Hack #2: Lubricating Moving Parts
Proper lubrication of moving parts reduces friction and minimizes noise. Incorporate lubrication into your maintenance regimen to mitigate this issue.
Long-Term Solution: Regular Equipment Inspections
Conduct thorough equipment inspections to identify and rectify issues that could lead to unusual noises. Addressing problems promptly can prevent more extensive damage.
The Role of Regular Professional Inspections
Hiring Certified Technicians
While DIY hacks can be effective for minor issues, it’s crucial to enlist the expertise of certified technicians for comprehensive excavator inspections. These professionals are trained to identify hidden problems and offer specialized solutions.
Inspection Frequency and Benefits
Regular professional inspections, at least once a year, provide a comprehensive assessment of your excavator’s condition. This proactive approach helps catch potential problems early, reducing downtime and repair costs.
Sourcing Quality Excavators
The Importance of Reliable Equipment
Investing in quality excavators is the foundation of preventing problems. Reliable machinery is less likely to encounter