Des Sinkevich
Content Strategist
Des Sinkevich has been with Penn Foster since 2015, helping students learn more about potential career paths and how to succeed in online school. Through hundreds of blogs, from articles about study tips to information on how to prepare for in-demand jobs, she's dedicated to giving our students the tools they need to reach their goals. Des holds a B.A. in English Writing from the University of Pittsburgh which has helped her create the content you're reading today and, when she's not writing, she's reading!
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All Blogs by Des Sinkevich
How to Become a Medical Lab Assistant: Step-by-Step Roadmap (Skills, Externships, Exams & Career Outlook)
Interested in a rewarding new career in healthcare? Learn how to become a medical lab assistant, including job duties, required skills, training options, certification steps, and salary outlook in this blog.
May 06, 2026
9 min read
Real Grads, Real Stories: How Amanda Rewrote Her Story with Penn Foster
32-year-old mom of three, Amanda, knew she had to get her high school diploma and overcame self-doubt and balanced a busy life to make it happen. Learn more about her journey, her advice for other students, and what it felt like to finally get that diploma as an adult.
May 01, 2026
7 min read
How To Find A Job After Being Laid Off
Getting laid off never feels good. In fact, it may lead you to panic. What are you going to do? How will you pay your bills? What does this mean for your career? If you’ve been laid off or think you may be getting laid off soon, take a moment to breathe and then consider your next steps. If you’re not sure where to start, here’s your guide to finding a new job after you’ve been laid off.
Apr 29, 2026
9 min read
CPC Exam Guide: Requirements, Costs, and Tips to Pass on Your First Try
Interested in becoming a certified medical coder but a little worried about the CPC exam? Here’s everything you need to know about the AAPC’s CPC exam, from test requirements and formatting to how to best prepare to pass on your first try!
Apr 27, 2026
15 min read
What Does a Sterile Processing Tech Do? (Duties, Salary, & FAQs)
Want to work in healthcare but not with patients? This blog will cover what you need to know about becoming a sterile processing technician including salary, training, and more!
Apr 27, 2026
18 min read
Real Student Stories: How Kelsy Found Her Path as a Mom, Military Spouse, and Future RVT
Going back to school as a working mom isn’t easy but it’s possible to balance it all and realize your dreams. We talked with Vet Tech student, Kelsy, to learn how she balanced being a mom, military wife, and student in this blog!
Mar 17, 2026
8 min read
How to Become Certified as a Vet Tech (State by State)
If you’re interested in becoming a veterinary technician, you’ll most likely need to gain a credential. That means becoming certified, licensed, or registered, depending on your state. Learn more about getting credentialed as a vet tech and check out your state requirements below.
Mar 06, 2026
22 min read
Should Moms Go Back to School? How Education Fits with Parenting
Putting kids first is natural, but pursuing your goals strengthens your family. Don’t let mom guilt stop you; it’s possible to grow your career and build stability without missing a moment at home. Learn more in this blog!
Feb 18, 2026
4 min read
Going Back to School as a Mom: Real Stories from Real Penn Foster Grads
Not sure if going back to school is the right move right now as a busy mom? The right time might be right now, so check out these stories of real moms who are real Penn Foster grads to get inspired and motivated!
Feb 17, 2026
7 min read
Parents of Gen Z Are Rethinking the Path to Success in an AI-Driven Job Market
Penn Foster recently surveyed parents of today’s high school students to learn more about how AI is impacting their education, career readiness, and future. Find out what they had to say in this blog.
Jan 26, 2026
5 min read