Desiree Sinkevich

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!

Our authors help us prioritize our learners' needs by creating informational content that's accurate and helpful. Learn more about our editorial guidelines.

All Blogs by Des Sinkevich

Vet tech in navy blue scrubs holding small white dog on green background.

What to Know Before You Enroll in Penn Foster's Vet Tech Program: Allergies, Animals, and Everything In Between

Before enrolling in any veterinary technology program, you should know what to expect. This blog covers what to know before enrolling in Penn Foster’s program, from how online classes work to how to deal with allergies and the physical demands of working as a credentialed vet tech.

Desiree Sinkevich

Des Sinkevich

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Short-haired woman in blue scrubs typing on silver laptop.

How to Become a Medical Coder: Career, Certification, and Training (2026 Guide)

Becoming a medical coder takes a few steps and you may be wondering if it’s the right career move for you. Learn more about how to become one, medical coding certification, salary and job outlook, and the impact of AI in this blog.

Desiree Sinkevich

Des Sinkevich

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Sterile processing technician in PPE organizing surgical tools.

How Much Do Sterile Processing Technicians Make? An Honest Guide to Salary, Growth, and What Comes Next

The salary you can earn is an important part of considering a new career, especially if you're looking for the ability to plan ahead and a little breathing room in your monthly budget. If you're thinking about becoming a sterile processing technician, here's what you should know about pay and what affects how much earn.

Desiree Sinkevich

Des Sinkevich

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Veterinary technician in green scrubs examining long-haired cat on blue background.

From Student to Veterinary Technician: A Step-by-Step Look at the Path from Training to Career

You may be weighing whether becoming a veterinary technician is the right choice for you. Learn more about the path from becoming a vet tech student to working in the field, and why credentialed vet techs are so important.

Desiree Sinkevich

Des Sinkevich

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Two women in blue scrubs working at desktop computers in an office.

Penn Foster’s Medical Coding Professional vs Competitors

There are several online medical coding training programs out there, but which one is the best fit for you? Learn more about top programs, what makes each different, and how Penn Foster compares.

Desiree Sinkevich

Des Sinkevich

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A man with medium brown skintone and dark hair, holding a laptop

Changing Careers in Midlife: A Smart Guide for Starting Over

It’s never too late to change careers, but how can you effectively make a midlife career change in 2026? Learn how to decide what’s next and what training can help you take the next step toward your future career.

Desiree Sinkevich

Des Sinkevich

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Woman in denim shirt using laptop in a cafe.

Getting Your High School Diploma or GED in New York: What Adults Need to Know

Can you get an online high school diploma in New York, or do you need to get a GED? If you're an adult considering your options, find out more about whether online diplomas are recognized in New York, what the GED is like, and more.

Desiree Sinkevich

Des Sinkevich

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woman in brown sweater and headset sitting at desk reviewing reports on computer monitors.

How to Prepare for the CBCS Exam: Insights from Instructors

Wondering what it takes to pass the CBCS exam? Get expert advice from instructors, practical study tips from successful students, and a realistic look at the exam, certification value, and how to prepare with confidence.

Desiree Sinkevich

Des Sinkevich

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Man in scrubs, face mask, gloves, and hairnet sterilizing medical equipment.

Sterile Processing Technician Program: Finish in Under 9 Months

Ready for a healthcare career without spending years in school? See how sterile processing training can help you build skills, prepare for CRCST certification, and take your first steps toward a new career.

Desiree Sinkevich

Des Sinkevich

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Blonde teen in blue sweater sitting on couch studying on white laptop.

Penn Foster High School Brings Career Preparation with New Healthcare and HVAC Pathways

Career education and training in high school can help students get a head start on future careers. In Penn Foster's two new Elective Pathway Diploma Programs, you can learn more about healthcare or HVAC roles and build relevant skills, all online and around your schedule.

Desiree Sinkevich

Des Sinkevich

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