Hrm 300 Week 1

Human Resource Management Overview Introduction Human resource management (HRM) has evolved into a huge industry in the business arena. The evolution and advancement of technology has created a global platform for HRM. The effect of globalization in many organizations has opened the door for HRM, and it is a crucial component for a successful business strategy and plan. This paper will define HRM, and discuss HRM’s primary function and role in an organization’s strategic plan. What is human resource management? HRM is comprised of the staffing, development, motivation, and maintenance functions. Each of these functions however is affected by external influences† (DeCenzo & Robbins, 2007, p. 50). In HRM, staffing involves strategic human resource planning, recruiting and selection. It is important to select the right people for your organization. Recruiting is critical because it can make or break your business. Training and development consists of equipping th e employees with the necessary skills and knowledge. Successful businesses have a vested interest in the employees.Inquiring about employee goals, family, strengths and weaknesses, and using that information to assist him or her in reaching their potential can improve productivity in your organization. For example, my company offers tuition reimbursement. That is an excellent benefit to take advantage of because I value education. I have a personal goal to obtain a MBA. Because my company is paying for my education, it serves as an incentive for me to continue working for the company and strive to move up the corporate ladder.In turn, my company reaps the benefit of the skills and knowledge achieved from the training and development. The maintenance aspect of HRM involves communication and safety and health. This portion of HRM is concerned with the well being of employees, and enhances the nature of the job and personal life of the employees (DeCenzo & Robbins, 2007). OSHA was implemented under the government to protect the employees in regards to his or her physical safety. The contract on which I work at the U. S.White House consist of several constructions projects that Some people have to wear steal toe boots, safety glasses and ear plugs in order to prevent possible injuries. This is mandated in areas that could be hazardous. What is the primary function of HRM? The primary function of HRM has changed drastically because of Federal and State laws, new requirements with employment practices, and involves hiring the right people. Because of the changing technology the primary function of HRM is recruiting people with higher skill sets.Organizations now need people with higher level degrees and certifications in the computer field. The reason for this mandate is because information systems are becoming more complex and ever changing. New recruits must be trained on new software programs. Employees have to be able to adapt and be critical thinkers in ord er to stay up-to-speed. In addition, employees have to be trained and specialize in various fields. What is the role of the HRM in an organization’s strategic plan? HRM has various roles in an organization’s strategic plan. HRM must therefore balance two primary responsibilities: assisting the organization in it strategic direction and representing and advocating for the organization’s employees† (DeCenzo & Robbins, 2007, p. 34). HRM has a vital role in an organization, and â€Å"must be forward thinking† (DeCenzo & Robbins, 2007, p. 34). HRM must work with management in order to accomplish the strategic plan. They must be in line with the company’s vision and mission statement in order to assist the organization. Determining ways to cut cost, but still maintain higher productivity is one way to help the business.HRM can also perform inspections throughout the organization to weed out weaknesses in operations or functions, and unprodu ctive employees (DeCenzo & Robbins, 2007). Making a few necessary adjustments by holding weekly meetings can make a big difference in implementing and monitoring the progress of the strategic plan in an organization. My company performs weekly productivity checks to keep the organization strong and fluent. We are required to report to the supervisor each week providing status on our tasks and progress, and share our ideas on how we can improve.Conclusion In conclusion, HRM is a crucial component in today’s business arena. Technology and globalization have broadened the scope of HRM. Information systems and global recruitment efforts increase the complexity of HRM. Throughout this paper, we have defined HRM, discussed its primary function, and determined how it impacts the strategic plans of companies all over the world. Reference DeCenzo, D. , & Robbins, S. (2007). Fundamentals of Human Resource Management (9th ed. ) by DeCenzo & Robbins. (9th ed. ). Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons.

Methodology: Metro Manila and Caloocan City

This chapter presents the research design of the study, the subjects and the area of the study, sampling method, data needed, the research instrument, procedures for data gathering, procedures for data analysis and logistics, schedule and budgetary requirements. Research Design The study made use of Descriptive Analysis in determining the attitudes of student smokers to selected Caloocan City student smokers.Descriptive analysis was appropriate for the researchers' study which discovered and described the attitudes of student smokers towards smoking despite the SIN Tax Law and the effects of smoking towards student smokers themselves as its primary objective. Descriptive analysis was the most appropriate way on obtaining these two variables. The research study made used of survey and in-depth interview as research techniques. The advantage of having survey as research instrument was the cheapest technique.If correct sampling was achieved, the result of the survey would be generally a ccurate. Past and present information can also be use and apply to the study. The disadvantage of having survey as research instrument was limited in scope and respondents may not write honest answers. In-depth interview was a qualitative research technique used by the researchers that allowed researchers person to person discussion. It was lead to increased insight into people’s thoughts and behaviour on the important issues.This was often unstructured and therefore permitted the interviewer to encourage the respondent to talk at length about the topic of interests. The advantaged of conducting an In-depth interview was the ability to choose respondents. It generated ideas in pilot studies and obtaining greater depth information on a topic of interest as a supplement to data received from other methods. Survey had researchers' primary instruments since the research locales of the study are respondents (student smokers) and this instrument deeply gave researchers a deeper und erstanding about our respondent’s uses towards the study.Survey was the most appropriate way on obtaining the attitudes of respondents towards the study and the effects of the study to the respondents as well as their demographic profile. The researchers have to ask them questions through survey forms that range from smoking and effects of smoking, social aspects to family and friends, satisfaction value and how smoking serves them as, if something good, in their life. Research InstrumentIn this study, the primary instrument that was used to determine the attitudes of smoking among the selected Caloocan City student smokers was the survey questionnaire. The questionnaire was formulated based on the related literatures and studies presented. The related literatures and studies lead the researchers about the advantages and disadvantages of smoking as well as the brand of cigarette that was used by student smokers. The respondents were provided with a convenient list of question s on which the respondents will only encircle their answers.The questionnaire was composed of the respondent’s demographic profile such as their names, age, gender, civil status, and academic status. The researchers wanted to know about the number of cigarettes a student smoker smoke each day, the certain effects in their living, and how did smoking change their perception on education. Subjects of the Study The respondents of the study were the selected smokers in Caloocan City. This includes students ranging from 16 – 30 years of age in Caloocan City within the vicinity of UE Caloocan.Research Locale The researchers conducted the study in the vicinity of Caloocan City area. Caloocan City is located in the northern part of Metropolitan Manila. The city is divided into two parts: the urban portion, which was bounded on the north part of Malabon, on the east of Quezon City, on the south of Manila and Navotas, and on the west of Manila Bay; the rural portion, bounded on the north by San Jose Del Monte in Bulacan, on the east and south of Quezon City, and on the west of Valenzuela.It occupies a total land area of 55. 8 square kilometres. Caloocan City is composed of 188 barangays, which are subdivided into two Congressional Districts. It has been classified as a Highly Urbanized City. (Caloocan City Municipality) Sampling Method The proposed study made used of Simple Random and Stratified Random sampling method. Simple random method is a method of selecting a sample size from a universe such that each member of the population has an equal chance of being included. Data Gathering ProceduresThe major data gathering procedures, by means of conducting the survey, carried out and accomplished by all the researchers together as a group since the subject of the study and the research locale was within the vicinity of Caloocan City area. The questionnaires will be personally handled by the researchers to the respondents. The researchers then directly answer s any question that the respondent raised to ask regarding the survey questionnaires, then the respondents answer the questionnaires, they collect it for immediate review, made sure that every item has been answered to avoid invalid forms.In this procedure, we aimed to do it and work for it as a team, from the formulation of the question to actual conduction of the survey, and from tallying of survey results, to the interpretation and analysis of data, since these are tiring doing it by just one person, we considered not only cooperation from our team, but more of collaboration from each and every one of us.Data Analysis Procedure After collecting the questionnaires, the researchers tally the data from the respondents. They tabulate it to make it easy for the user to analyse as basis for making interpretations. The collected data to arrange in groups or classified to descriptive as basis for analysis of the results.

Research Analysis on the Effects of Functional Mobility Skills Paper

Analysis on the Effects of Functional Mobility Skills Training for Young Students with Physical Disabilites - Research Paper Example 2. Literature Review In order to introduce the research problem to the readers several references were cited by the investigator. Three key points which researcher has discussed in literature review are enlisted below; a) The researcher has presented the strengths and weakness of Traditional Developmental Modal through literature review. Most of the researchers have reached the consensus that the traditional approaches are limited for learning motor and functional skills. (Crt Marincek, 2001, p.251). b) Secondly, the supremacy of functional modal over the developmental modal is discussed at length. Functional modal use of therapy integrated with education is more natural and beneficent. (Piercy, 1986, p.6). c) Another important point of discussion is the validity and acceptability of MOVE model. â€Å"MOVE is designed to embed mobility skill practice into functional every day routines.† (Miller, 2005, p.831). 3. Research Format Following facts about the research were identifie d, a) Description of the Research Format(s) The â€Å"Effects of Functional Mobility Skills training for Young students with Physical Disabilities† is a qualitative as well as a quantitative research. The research deals with the statistical details and comparisons as well as talks about the conceptual and qualitative issues with of MOVE curriculum. Moreover, hypothesis of the research cannot be precisely described rather is will result in some general conclusion which will require further studies and observations to strengthen the hypothesis. The research design is quasi-experimental in nature because its offer less randomization of participants being only five. Quasi-experimental designs are particularly useful in natural and a classroom setting which is the case in this research. Moreover, the research is more practical and less academic which is also an attribute of quasi-experimental research designs. The â€Å"Effects of Functional Mobility Skills training for Young stu dents with Physical Disabilities† is a single group research design. These designs are used were immediate and more practical resulted required to be established in order to ascertain the effects of a treatment conducted in the research. b) Description of the Method(s) of Data Collection Direct observation and standardized measure are used as the most prominent data collection methodologies. Direct observation method requires a clear definition of target behaviors and observer may be a teacher, parent or some other external observer. Standardized data may be collected using a specific instrument like Gait Trainer or through some other means like interviews and/or questionnaires etc. to record results and reaction in an experiment. All participants in the experiment are subjected to the same tests which increase the validity of the data collection. c) Description of the Method(s) of Data Analysis The data is mainly collected through direct observation and standardized measures. However, it is not an extensively diverse dataset and the analysis and comparisons are conducted through simple graphical representation of data in line graphs. These graphs are elaborated through variation of means and percentages and other statistical tools. Moreover, the overlap across phases,

Discuss the role of perceptions of 'otherness' in 'ethnic cleansing' Essay

Discuss the role of perceptions of 'otherness' in 'ethnic cleansing' - Essay Example In most cases, this includes dehumanizing that culture as well. The concept of the ‘other’ is central to the development of enough hatred to believe that ethnic cleansing is not only necessary, but feasible for one set of humans to commit against another. In order to create a belief system that can include ethnic cleansing as a solution for conflicts between cultures, a sense of the ‘other’ must be developed so that a belief in the dehumanization of the opposing culture diminishes any sense of committing murder against a fellow human being. According to Dirven, ethnic cleansing comes as a result of â€Å"abuses of cognitive processes (that) lead to atrocities against humanity beyond the imagination of most of us† (115). Cognitive semantics and the use of external symbols to create unity are also used in order to create a sense of the ‘other’. Those who are unified under a focused set of beliefs use the concept of those who are outside of those beliefs to create the sense of the ‘other’, the group that does not identify with the same belief systems. Dirven goes on to say that â€Å"Features or attributes of the so-called ‘outsiders’ may then be made cognitively significant through exaggerated contrast to the valued manners or behaviours of the newly identified ‘inside’ group† (114). ... They have an overpowering emotional and non-rational quality†. The nature of the need to belong is balanced by the need to identify those who do not belong. It is the nature of the individual to bond and create mutual ‘others’ that provide contrast to the superiority of their own cultural group. In doing this, the defined characteristics of the ‘other’ provide support for why a group will find reasons to isolate away from other groups and create conflict to assert their continued superiority. These methods can be varied, but one of the worst is through the policies that involve ethnic cleansing. Ethnic cleansing involves two different concepts. Ethnicity traits that identify a group are combined with cultural traits. Groups are identified by both their physical manifestations of difference and their cultural manifestations through systems of belief. The difference between ethnicity and culture can be defined by the idea that one is involuntary and the other is voluntary. One is through physical attributes that are not a matter of control or choice. The other is through choosing to bond with others in a formed group (Cohen and Stone 67). The differences between the two are cause for different types of conflict and the line is not always considered clearly drawn. Therefore, if a person of certain ethnic attributes joins a culture that no longer associates them with the belief systems of their ethnic cultural group, this may not prevent them from being included. Joining a cultural group without ethnic markers that identify an individual with that group will also not create a safe place for an individual. The example

Case study questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Case study questions - Essay Example The recommendation for this business can be expand its business to many other countries of the world and make new business strategies for having greater competitive advantages. 1b. the biggest step taken by Tesco in its strategic planning is becoming an International operator. The advantageous strategic position of the company has made it a multinational operator. The company has the ability to retain and acquire more customers in the new market environment. Tesco’s expansion in the US market is also an important strategic decision. This strategy has contributed in the success of the firm in USA. The strategy of Tesco’s store operation of small format has positioned the brand in such a way that it threatens other retail firms. To hold its position in the competitive environment of the retail industry Tesco can make alliance with different international business for its business expansion. 2. The main strategic evaluation criteria are involved in understanding the goal of the company, its mission and vision. The growth of the business by implementing those strategies helps to evaluate the effectiveness of the business strategies. Tesco has set up different evaluation criteria for its different business strategies. The strategic decision of the company to expand in USA and South Korea helped to achieve huge success in its business. In this case the main strategic evaluation criteria are to generate a certain amount of revenue from those places which will help to generate a huge amount of profit. Tesco has a strategy of selling its product at a very low price. This strategy is evaluated on the basis of the amount of goods sold in its stores. The main objective of the company is to become the largest retail company of the world. The company’s strategy of offering value added services and products in its business operation helps to increase the growth of the busine ss. The firm has introduced

Child Abuse Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 10

Child Abuse - Essay Example This study outlines that child abuse often happens knowingly or unknowingly. It can happen at home, in schools, or in child care units. Improper child care and the subsequent injuries are the major cause for children in the United States. Most of the mothers in United States, who are binge drinkers, refrain from their responsibilities of giving proper care to their child. They will keep their infants in child care agencies before going for their work or other leisure activities. As per one of the studies conducted in United States, children of mothers who were problem drinkers were 2.1 times more likely to have had various types of serious injuries than children of mothers who did not drink, and children with two parents who were problem drinkers were 2.7 times more likely to have been injured. On the other hand, most of the care givers are also addicted to alcohol or drugs which prevented the children from getting proper care from there also. In the given case study, it is evident t hat the child suffered injuries like fractures from the child care unit because of the lack of care received by the child. â€Å"Injury is the leading cause of death for children and has been linked to caregiver drinking. Screening and brief intervention for risky drinking has been successful in adult trauma centers but has not been evaluated in caregivers of pediatric trauma patients†.

Modern Myths Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Modern Myths - Essay Example The myths are based on the society’s culture, norms, practices and even daily activities. Man of steel is a 2013 superhero film. The film is based on the character of the Dc comic and superman. Its co-producer is Syncopy films and Legendary pictures companies. The film is distributed by the warner bros.It is a series of films which portrays the origin of the human character. The film was officially released to the public on 14th of June 2013. The film has an organized acting and narrative. The film also portrays well the fight scenes, reinvention of titular character and the visuals. The themes story is the character. The superman character portrays a very real story (Brown, 122). He portrays that everybody’s goal is to dig out the difficulties he or she faces. A person’s character faces difficulties due to its multiple identities. The boy as a young man discovers extraordinary powers. He, therefore, journeys to explore his origin and the mission he is sent to do. Superman is to become a symbol and hope for all men after emerging a hero. The afterlife in religion is a myth which is used to explain the continuous existence of an individual after death. According to afterlife’s myths a person’s body consists of several elements. The body contains the soul, mind and the heart. It is believed that after death, the human soul will continue to exist. Most of the religions in the world believe that there is heaven and hell. It is believed that those who are righteous will go to heaven and those who are sinners will go to hell. They will face a wrath of fire which will burn them continuously. The afterlife is believed to convey the truth about hell and heaven (Exline, 161). It also explains what happens after death. The theme of afterlife myths is to convey the truth of what will happen after death. Furthermore, it explains that the righteous will continue to live while the sinners will be burn to ashes in hell. Creation

Successful security management Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words - 1

Successful security management - Research Paper Example The various area of security that needs attention include: Dalton (2003) traces the roots of contemporary corporate security back to the role of the night watchman prior to the 1960s. In this guise the job of security personnel within businesses entailed little more than acting as a lookout with a primary role of early warning in case of incidents such as fire. Throughout the 1960s and into the latter half of the 20th century this limited early role began to expand and fire watches began to take on more classical security duties including controlling access and egress from properties, patrolling and maintaining perimeter fences and general guarding duties (Gill, 2006). Dalton terms this the ‘Green Shack Era’ as activities were typically based out of such shacks located by the main gate (Gill, 2006). While security management progressed at varying speeds within industries different and between individual organizations a growing role for security departments within the corporate world was apparent. For the most part it moved out of the so-called green shacks and into offices embarking on what Dalton describes as the ‘Physical Security Era’ (Gill, 2006). With the arrival of the physical security era corporate security continued to perform duties such as security patrols but in addition took on responsibilities for responding to medical emergencies, controlling traffic, monitoring equipment, escorting employees and staffing front desks (Gill, 2006). This entirely defensive approach to corporate security could be considered the trademark of the physical security era and to an extent it remains the ethos behind security departments in many large businesses today (Gill, 2006). One of the effects of globalization has been a proliferation in the number of threats which face large organizations with exposure to operational risks all over the world. This in turn has made the job of protecting businesses much more complicated and means the

Agriculture in India Essay Essay Example for Free

Agriculture in India Essay Essay India ranks second worldwide in farm output. Agriculture and allied sectors like forestry, logging and fishing accounted for 18.6% of the GDP in 2005, employed 60% of the total workforce[7] and despite a steady decline of its share in the GDP, is still the largest economic sector and plays a significant role in the overall socio-economic development of India. Yields per unit area of all crops have grown since 1950, due to the special emphasis placed on agriculture in the five-year plans and steady improvements in irrigation, technology, application of modern agricultural practices and provision of agricultural credit and subsidies since the green revolution. [citation needed] India is the largest producer in the world of milk, cashew nuts, coconuts, tea, ginger, turmeric and black pepper.[8] It also has the worlds largest cattle population (193 million).[9] It is the second largest producer of wheat, rice, sugar, groundnut and inland fish.[10] It is the third largest producer of tobacco.[10] India accounts for 10% of the world fruit production with first rank in the production of banana and sapota.[10] The required level of investment for the development of marketing, storage and cold storage infrastructure is estimated to be huge. The government has implemented various schemes to raise investment in marketing infrastructure. Among these schemes are Construction of Rural Go downs, Market Research and Information Network, and Development / Strengthening of Agricultural Marketing Infrastructure, Grading and Standardization.[11] Main problems in the agricultural sector, as listed by the World Bank, are:[12] * Indias large agricultural subsidies are hampering productivity-enhancing investment. * Overregulation of agriculture has increased costs, price risks and uncertainty. * Government interventions in labour, land, and credit markets. * Inadequate infrastructure and services. Research and development The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), established in 1905, was responsible for the research leading to the Indian Green Revolution of the 1970s. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is the apex body in kundiure and related allied fields, including research and education.[13] The Union Minister of Agriculture is the President of the ICAR. The Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute develops new techniques for the design of agricultural experiments, analyses data in agriculture, and specializes in statistical techniques for animal and plant breeding. Prof. M.S. Swaminathan is known as Father of the Green Revolution and heads the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation.[14] He is known for his advocacy of environmentally sustainable agriculture and sustainable food security.

Factors for Going Public Through an Ipo Essay Example for Free

Factors for Going Public Through an Ipo Essay When an organization is private they have decisions to make. Going public through an initial public offering, or IPO is one decision they can choose. When going through an IPO there is going to be increased capital. A public offering will allow a company to raise capital to use for various corporate purposes such as working capital, acquisitions, research and development, marketing, and expanding plant and equipment (FindLaw, 2013). Other advantages of choosing an IPO would be liquidity, increased prestige, valuation, and increased wealth. Weaknesses Even though going public has some advantages, it can also have some disadvantages too. The time and expense is probably one of the biggest disadvantages with this choice. It can take over a year and much money for fees to even start the process of an IPO. Other disadvantages to going public through an IPO would be disclosure, decisions based on stock price, regulatory review, falling stock price, and vulnerability. Disclosure is another part that can be costly when starting an IPO. That means that the organization has to make all financial records available to the public. Opportunities Going public is a way to increase public awareness of the company. The company will have more exposure of its product line. This awareness will increase sales because the product will be introduced to a new group of potential clients. An opportunity to increase clients will have an increase in market share. Investors will have a positive reaction to the company as it increases its market share. Threats As a public company, there will be accounting practices that will need to be met. The SEC requires public companies to comply with the regulations. The cost to comply with SEC regulations can be expensive in addition to the regulations the SOX Act will require an external accounting firm to audit the company adding additional cost. Since Lafleur will now be operating as a public company, they will have the pressure to perform for the market. â€Å"The actions of the companys management also become increasingly scrutinized as investors constantly look for rising profits. This may lead management to perform somewhat questionable practices in order to boost earnings† (K. Balasubramaniam, 2009). Factors for acquiring another organization in the same industry Strengths An organization can also acquire another organization in the same industry. A major strength with acquiring another organization is that Lafleur Trading Company would be the owner of both organizations and would hold the power of both at the same time. The new organization loses its power and sometimes even loses the name. Acquiring another organization might be done to save the original smaller company while boosting sales for the larger company. If Lafleur would choose to keep the client list of the new organization it would be strength for them and those clients. The clients would still be able to receive the same products, but under new owners. With the new organization being in the same industry Lafleur would not have to buy any additional equipment for the new product. They could just bring the product over to their buildings. Weaknesses Acquiring another organization has its weaknesses too. Customers can become upset over this because they want to be loyal to the previous owners over the newer ones. Lafleur would have to pay a premium to the affiliate of the organization to keep the customers happy (if they can) and without upsetting cash flow. Opportunities There is opportunity in a company’s strengths. Lafleur can take advantage of the successes the acquired company has accomplished in the areas of product, marketing, research and development, and staffing. They can also avoid mistakes that have been made in the past. Using a synergy strategy in this process of acquisition will require Lafleur to be knowledgeable in the operations of the new company. Threats The threat of acquiring another company in the same industry is in its customer base and product line. Lafleur may not be gaining new clients or offering new or improved products. The sales team may be making the same sales calls to the same customers the other company. In this scenario, Lafleur will be gaining the company’s debt without the benefit of expanding resources for future growth. Merging with another organization Strengths Mergers are different than acquiring a new organization because when two companies merge they work together instead of taking full control of the weaker company. Mergers can help both organizations while also benefiting the public. The new firm will have increased market share, which reduces competition (Economics Help, n.d.). The merger will help financially because the company will get a better interest rate for the size. Efficiency is strength for mergers because the companies can bring the more experienced employees from both organizations together. An important strength of a merger is having diversity between the two original organizations. Other strengths would be research and development, avoiding duplication, and regulation of monopoly. Weaknesses Mergers have weaknesses just like any other choice to expand the organization. Mergers mean higher prices for products because competition is cut when two organizations become one. A merger also means fewer choices of products for customers. One of the biggest weaknesses for a merger would be fewer jobs in each organization. This means that Lafleur would have to let go of some of their employees while the organization it mergers with would have to also let go of some. The employees that are left might experience diseconomies of scale. This means that the employees will feel like they are part of a big corporation and their motivation will start to go away. Opportunities Opportunity lies in a merger with a larger well known company. Lafleur will gain the experience of growth from a larger company. There is also the opportunity of better benefits, salaries, increased revenue, and the expansion of offices in other markets. There must be research to be done to choose a company that will aid in future growth. This company will need to be a worthy partner and not a company that needs a lifeline to survive. Threats If a company does not have a growth opportunity on its own, it will not have growth opportunity when it merges with another company. The threat of Lafleur not benefitting from shared resources can result in failure for both companies. Another threat to a merger is mis-management. If the other company is poorly managed, Lafleur will suffer with unrealistic strategic goals, poor communication, and uncertain future success. It is because of these reasons that most companies do not experience more than one merger in their lifetime, they usually fail. Balasubramaniam, K. (2009). Advantages and Disadvantages for a Company Going Public. Retrieved from http://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/06/ipoadvantagedisadvantage.asp

History Of Sports Journalism Media Essay

History Of Sports Journalism Media Essay Sports journalism  is a form of  journalism  that reports on  sports  topics and  events. While the sports department within some  newspapers  has been mockingly called the  toy department, because sports  journalists  do not concern themselves with the serious topics covered by the news desk, sports coverage has grown in importance as sport has grown in wealth, power and influence. Sports journalism is an essential element of any  news media  organization. Sports journalism includes organizations devoted entirely to sports  reporting  Ã‚  newspapers  such as  LEquipe  in  France,  La Gazzetta dello Sport  in  Italy,  Marca  in  Spain, and the defunct  Sporting Life  in Britain, American  magazines  such as  Sports Illustrated  and the Sporting News, all-sports  talk radio  stations, and  television  networks such as  Eurosport,  ESPN  and  The Sports Network (TSN). History Of Sports Journalism Known as the Golden Age of Sports, the decade or so between the end of World War I and the beginning of  the great depression  was described as a decade of change. America and the world wanted to put the memory of the Great War behind them and enjoy life. The economy was booming because of the war and the automobile was becoming a more common means of transportation. This freedom allowed America to fall in love with sports through the exploits of Jack Dempsey, Man O War, The Four Horseman of Notre, and the biggest name of all,  Babe Ruth. Sports journalisms roots developed long before Sports Illustrated and ESPN. Sports writers, although mocked in early days for not being serious writers, now revel in an industry worth billions. From the Internet, newspapers, radio and television to the movies and magazines, content is vast and packed with heart racing photos and videos of games, plays, moments, and victories and losses. Athletes jockey for a place in the news and the cameras always seem to be rolling, and now for the history of sports journalism. 1789IN THE BEGINNING Horses, which some paleontologists believe may have originally evolved from dinosaurs, may have the right to claim the first glimmers of sports journalism. In 1727, The Racing Calendar offers information about races and their results. In 1791, The General Stud book is added. The site History World, www.historyworld.net explains that the English were curious about the lineage of their horses too. Boxing is a popular sport in London. Champion Daniel Mendoza writes a book about the sport. It is called The Art of Boxing. Mendoza goes on to lose the title from John Jackson, known as Gentleman Jack. According to the site, his name is more for the circle of friends than his fighting style. From these times, the publications for men told of great battles between men and if they fought for fun, exercise or settling a wager. Even back then, the details involving blood, bruises and broken bones excited men. The sport gained in popularity after readers caught on to the idea of beating someone without getting in trouble. Women were not allowed in any sports establishment in London, and most had no desire to change this rule. In the 1800s, the idea of basketball is started and other sports follow. The times of America demanded attention to be placed on work and home, not recreational activities. In the early part of the 1900s, America dealt with the full impact of the  Industrial Revolution  and World War l. The times preceding the First World War brought a new life to the game of golf, which has its early origins in Scotland. The Scots claim they invented the game; however, there is some speculation that they may have evolved it instead. 1900sEarly Days Golf is a popular game and has several magazines devoted to it. This includes The American Golfer. Published by Conde Nast, it was founded in the early half of the 1900s. Its covers have featured golf greats, including Bobby Jones, Walter Hagen and Byron Nelson. The Depression and World War ll brought a halt to sports as scores of men and women left home to defend the country. Children and youth continued to play. Yet, it was after the war that sports celebrated a rebirth. 1954 THE BIRTH OF SPORTS ILLUSTRATED Sports Illustrated is arguably one of the most popular magazines for sports journalism. Even though its first issue was not released until August of 1954, the executives at Time, Inc realized its potential when World War ll ended and sports became a major recreational activity. The first cover features slugger Eddie Matthews of the Milwaukee Braves. Back then, executives did not know much about sports journalism. The magazine changed from one week to the next as they tried different ideas. Still, the topics offered readers a full range of information and photographs regarding different sports. These included everything from football and basketball to gymnastics and even bullfighting! The earlier issues featured how-to tips too. Once the readership became established, executives enticed fans with a three-page centre foldout of 1954 Topps baseball cards. Willie Mays, Jackie Robinson and Ted Williams were featured on the cards, which were printed on the same paper stock as the magazine. The term, Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue dates back to the early 1960s when executives began pondering the idea. In January 1964, the first issue showing a woman with a white two-piece suit caused an instant reaction. The picture is tame by todays standards. In the early days of the magazine African Americans did not have equality or respect. Through time, and many long fights, this is changing. Sports Illustrated is one place to feature the black athletes. These include two popular personalities, Muhammad Ali and Michael Jordan. It was claims that They have been featured on the front cover more times than any other athletes. The front cover of SI, as it is called by many readers and fans, featured non-athlete faces, including Bob Hope, Ernest Hemingway and President John F. Kennedy. These issues, if they can be found and in top condition, have enormous value. SPORTS JOURNALISM NOW Today, Sports Illustrated is branching out with an issue for youth. Its content is designed to encourage involvement in sports, provide information about reducing injuries, and highlighting major names like Michael Johnson and others. The editors know the youth are influenced by what they include in each issue. In response, they often include ads by stars that encourage youth to avoid drugs and alcohol, stay in school and remain clear of trouble. It is one of the few magazines geared towards youth. Newspapers provided sports journalism from the first days of publishing. The coverage was basic and sparse. Writers often did not know much about the sports themselves. Occasionally, a sportswriter would actually have a working knowledge of the game. Times changed when accuracy and details became more important than yellow journalism. This was when the focus was on the sensational bits of news and facts often went unverified, if they were facts at all. As credible papers debuted, sportswriters needed more knowledge of the sport they covered. Now, many companies and stations want actual experience form their writers. This makes former athletes more valuable and offers them a chance to stay in the game instead of disappearing from sight. The Internet, radio shows and television offer sports journalism. The depth of coverage is intense and high point players garner attention and fame. The stories by sportswriters cover more than scores and highlights; they also cover future plays, fears of coaches, personal snapshots of players, typical road life adventures, issues with recruiting and trades. It is not just the fans who pay attention to the sportswriters. Coaches from around the country, scouts and even advertisers watch and listen. Nike, Spalding and other big names use the information provided by the sportswriters when looking for the next big idea. They want to see who will be the next star. The whole wants to know too, and sportswriters have plenty of answers. A Sports Journalists A sports writer has the responsibility to both entertain and inform people about what is occurring within the world of sports. Some sports writers focus on one particular sport whereas others write on all sports within a given area. Some sports writers are syndicated or are published in more than one newspaper and others may write for a local newspaper or even for a website, blog, magazine or TV show. Sports writers may work freelance and sell individual stories to various news outlets or they may work for a given publication. Those sports writers that do freelance work pick their sporting events to cover, whereas those that work for a publication are usually assigned stories. Both types of sports writers have to be able to capture the excitement and interest of the reader as well as provide an accurate depiction of the sporting event or issue that they are writing on. A sports writer must be willing to work long hours and still make deadlines for printing. Most writers now use computer word processing programs that make editing and revising a bit easier, and also allows for submissions by email to meet tight deadlines. Creativity, a very complete understanding of the sport, good rapport with athletes, coaches and managers as well as an ability to write are all important for a sports writer. An interest in news as well as keeping up-to-date on all issues with regards to the sports community is also important on a daily basis. Common work activities include: Attending games and sporting events to be able to write accurately and effectively on the events of the game. Writing insightful, informative and original stories on various aspects of sports from human interest on up to game day results. Researching, networking and developing contacts in the sporting world that can provide accurate and up-to-date information on various aspects of the sport. Meeting with publishers, editors and writing teams to develop and obtain assignments or ideas for possible stories. Keeping in constant contact with athletes, owners, coaches and managers and using high ethical standards to avoid compromising the writing. As the name suggests,  Sports Journalism  reports on sports topics and events and it is an essential element of any news media organization. Today career in sports is at its boom and which also brings wonderful career opportunities for sports journalists as well. Television, radio, magazines, internet have become an integral part of peoples life. Many of them are ardent fans of different sports; they switch to TV, websites, newspaper for getting latest updates and news in their sports. Thus, the scope of  sports journalism  is increasing gradually.  Sports Journalism  prepares students to sports reporting career and also introduces them with the writing of a sports writer and media professionals use. But still a lot to done in this field, it is disappointing to say that there are not enough good sports magazines in Indian languages. A couple of English sports magazines are available in the market which cater with the need of limited sports fans but many sports loving people who are not comfortable in English do not enjoy this privilege. Today it is a rewarding vocation which requires talented and skilled sports media professionals. To be a sport journalist you need to know inside out of your subject and have a passion to make a mark in this vocation. It also demands lot of hard work and onus. However, rewards are lucrative, a sport journalist gets box seats at the games, meets internationals sports star, gets lot of exposure while travelling from one country to another, getting to know the people who train Olympics athletes and fame appreciations from the readers and fans. Today, internet has become an important part of  sports journalism. Almost all journalists have to start from ground zero.   So if you are an aspiring Journalist, you can start with your own blogs on your favourite team or particular sport. This helps you to build up your portfolio of self-published clips and if any sports organization finds your blog interesting then you could also get a chance to work with them. Today Sports Journalism has turned into long form writing, it also produces popular books on sports which include biographies, history and investigations. Many western countries have their own national association of sports journalists.   In India there has been recent growth in Sports Journalism. The sports column in various leading newspapers is widely popular among readers. Indians today not just appreciate cricket but they have also understood the importance of other sports also like football, hockey, wrestling, boxing etc. You could go for a degree in sports journalism which could enhance your writing and reporting skills and also trains you efficiently in the areas sports. You would learn to write technical details about a sport in a simple manner. One could also opt for journalism and match reporting course which deals with going to sport games, sporting events, and venues, meeting with players then reporting all this to sports crazy audience. The career opportunities in sports journalism are match reporter, freelance sports journalist and sports writer. You would get to work in newspaper, radio, TV, magazines and online journalism. As the conclusion, sport is one of the well-published issues in the Net. Sport issues gain a lot of publicity and discussions in the media. The examples are numerous: thousands of football news article depict the reactions of trainers to a particular event. Important soccer games are an everyday issue in TV channels. New technologies are used everywhere in coverage of sports: tennis streaming video presents the particular strokes of favoured tennis stars, such as Rafael Nadal and Maria Sharapova. At the days of serious matches, fans enjoy watching the game of their favoured teams in tennis or football online. We might ask ourselves: what is the role the Media plays in Sport? One probable answer would be that the media successfully exploits the public need for entertainment. People have always felt the need to be entertained, starting from the days of gladiators, when the public general demand was to see people die in front of them in exchange for their money. As the years went by, the forms of the entertainment changed and became less cruel, but the principle of the crowd asking for Panem et circenses (i.e. bread and circuses) remained the same. In this matter, sports news is the best possible entertainment, and watching sport online or on TV is the best possible way to witness the actual thing happening. And here comes the next possible answer: media adheres to the needs of the wide public, fulfilling the desire to watch the actual thing on-line. Although a football match might occur in Milano, and tennis game may take place in Moscow, media brings the tennis game and the football match straight to your living room, without the need to get up from sofa and buy the ticket to Milano or wherever you want to get to. Media makes use of our need to witness the actual thing by serving as a mediator between the sporting event, which happens somewhere out there, and us, the viewers. Being a central part of our everyday experience, media brings sports coverage to our living room and shows it to us whenever we choose. Id say its a good thing, but you choose for yourselves.

Halloween :: Creative Writing Essays

Halloween It was a dark and stormy Halloween night and Sal and Jess her best friend were at Sal's house for the night to watch movies. Knock, Knock, Knock, "Sal, someones at the door do you want me to answer it?", Jess yelled to Sal who was upstairs doing her hair in the bathroom. "Yeah Cool Jess its probably just some more annoying trick or treaters anyway", replied Sal. Jess got up off the couch and approached the door making sure to peer through the peephole to see who it was. All she could make out were two small dark figures so she guessed they were trick or treaters. She then opened the door just enough so she could have the latch on. "Grrrrrrr we are the creatures from hell", screamed the smaller of the two figures. Both the figures were dressed with a bed sheet that had obviously been painted black and thrown over their heads with just two tiny holes where the eyes would be. The other figure then said "whats it gunna be lady, trick or treat?" Jess opened the door fully now and beckoned them to come inside. "Just wait here", she said as she ran up the stairs and into the bathroom where Sal was still combing her hair. "Sal what should I give those two boys", asked Jess. "I dunno give them one of those chocolate things near the fridge", Sal replied. Jess turned and went back down the stairs into the kitchen to find the bars. "Are you still there boys?", she yelled. But there was no reply. Jess stopped and went back to the front door. To her surprise the boys had vanished and there was no sign of them. Fine she thought to herself at least it saves two more chocolate bars for me. Suddenly Jess heard a voice but she didn't know what it said or where it was coming from. "Is somebody there?", Jess inquired taking a huge gulp at the same time. "Yeah me", replied the voice in a strong tone. Arggghhhhh Jess screamed as she saw a tall man bearing a long sharp knife. Jess turned around and bolted back up the stairs as fast as she could. "Sal, Sal the...the...theres a huge guy with a knife downstairs", Jess stuttered. "What are you on about Jess?", replied Sal. "Im serious Sal there's a guy with a knife downstairs and he's 'gunna' kill us", shrieked Jess as the panic set in. Sal was begining to get worried now as she tried to think straight.

Black Holes: The Power Source for Future Space Travel? :: Space Exploration Essays

Everyone knows that the spaceships in Star Trek that travel faster than the speed of light are mere science fiction. According to Einstein's theory of relativity, if an object reached the speed of light, its mass would be immediately transformed into energy. Currently our spaceships can not even reach mars in less than five years. Now, with modern theories of black holes, trips to other solar systems may be possible at nearly the speed of light. Black holes were only proven to exist within the last twenty-five years and were only really considered to exist for the last seventy-five years. Yet these recently discovered objects could be the energy revolution of the future, much like nuclear power was in the sixties. Black holes generate tremendous amounts of energy in several different ways, and so can be harnessed in several ways to generate usable power. In order to understand how energy can be created from black holes, one must first have an understanding of black holes themselves. Black holes are formed by matter being crushed within a certain radius (call the Shwarzchild radius or event horizon). This radius can be calculated by the equation r = 2GM / c2, were G is Newton's gravitational constant, c is the speed of light, and M is the mass of the black hole. This shows that the density within the event horizon, which is equal to 3M / 4?r2 for a spherical object, will actually decrease as the mass increases. The gravitational field around a black hole will act same as an object of identical mass, so "if the sun were to suddenly †¦ [become] a black hole †¦ would the earth go plummeting into it? No, it would continue on its orbit †¦ things just get interesting close to the black hole" (Jebornak, 1998). There are three types of black holes that scientist currently believe are capable of becoming future power sources: Schwarzschild black holes, Newmann black holes, and primordial black holes. Schwarzschild black holes are the simplest black holes because they do not rotate and have no charge. The Newmann black hole, on the other hand, rotates and has a charge, but like the Schwarzschild black hole can have varying masses from a couple times our sun's mass to several billion times the mass of our sun. Primordial black holes were first theorized about "In the year 1973 [by] Stephen W.

Solar Energy Outline

Solar Energy Outline: Abstract Recently, the solar energy technology market has experienced phenomenal growth. Due to growing public awareness of environmental issues, clean energy research funding has increased. This funding increase has created dramatic technological improvements. Compared with traditional energy, solar energy is showing many remarkable advantages. Despite its technical and economic limitations in the present, it is expected that solar energy will play an important role in the transportation sector in the future. Key words: Solar energy; Solar panels; Solar technology; Solar power; Solar energy policy.Background Knowledge of Solar Energy 1. Status of Solar Energy Technology 1. 1 Potential of Solar Energy 1. 2 Photovoltaics 1. 3 Solar Thermal heating and cooling 2. Development of Solar Energy Technologies 2. 1 History of Solar Energy Technologies 2. 2 Barriers in Solar Energy Utilization 3. Life Cycle Analysis of Solar and Non-Solar Energy 3. 1 Comparison for Centra lized Power Generation Technologies 3. 2 Comparison for Distributed Power Generation Technologies 3. 3 Comparison of the LCOEs for Distributed and Central Station Renewable Energy Technologies 4. Policy supporting Solar Energy Development (Solar Thermal Heating and Electric) 4. European countries’ Policy (Germany) 4. 2 United States 4. 3 Asian Developing Countries (China and India) 5. Carbon Finance Mechanisms and Solar Energy Development 5. 1 Clean Development Mechanisms 5. 2 Barriers in the CDM 5. 3 Improvement of the CDM 6. Solar Energy Supply in Future 6. 1 Photovoltaics 6. 2 Solar Thermal Heating and Cooling 6. 3 Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) 7. Conclusion 7. 1 Advantage from Solar Energy 7. 2 Confines and Prospects References John Byrne, World Solar Energy Review: Technology, markets and Polices, Environment and Energy Unit, Development Research Group, The World BankAldo Steinfeld, Solar thermochemical production of hydrogen––a review, 0038-092X/ $ doi:1 0. 1016/j. solener. 2003. 12. 012, Solar Energy. Nathan S. Lewis, Powering the planet: Chemical challenges in solar energy utilization, PNAS October 24, 2006 vol. 103 no. 43 15729–15735 R. D. Schaller, High Efficiency Carrier Multiplication in PbSe Nanocrystals: Implications for Solar Energy Conversion, Physical Review Letters Volume 92 Number 18, May 2004 Solar Energy Industries Association. (2004). Our solar power future: The US photovoltaics industry roadmap through 2030 and beyond. Golden, CO: National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

Single-Sex Schools Fail to Improve Learning Essay

In 2002, only about a dozen schools were separating the sexes, according to the National Association for Single Sex Public Education, an advocacy group. Now, an estimated 500 public schools across the country offer some all-boy and all-girl classrooms. 2Proponents argue the separation allows for a tailored instruction and cuts down on gender-driven distractions among boys and girls, such as flirting. But critics decry the movement as promoting harmful gender stereotypes and depriving kids of equal educational opportunities. The ACLU claims many schools offer the classes in a way that conflicts with the U. S. Constitution and Title IX, a federal law banning sex discrimination in education. Researchers also have weighed in. 3For many parents, the rationale for placing their child in a single-sex school is the belief that academic performance will be improved. New research finds an absence of evidence to support this assumption. Moreover, evidence does exist that sex segregation increases gender stereotyping among children and teachers and legitimizes institutional sexism. 4The findings are the crux of a new article in the journal Science that examines single-sex schooling. â€Å"Though public sentiment may have strengthened in support of such settings for improving the learning environment and outcomes for both boys and girls, the science is just not there to support this,† said Richard Fabes, Ph. D. , one of the authors of the Science article. 5The Study authors cite evidence that single-sex and coeducational outcomes are equal. Similar large-scale reviews in Great Britain, Canada, Australia and New Zealand found little overall difference between single-sex and mixed-sex academic outcomes. Talk to our students and our graduates and they’ll tell you about the value of learning in an environment where competitive and collaborative spirits are unleashed in the absence of gender-based expectations. 6Another misconception rebutted in the article is the claim that boys and girls learn differently. Study authors said that this premise is not supported by research as neuroscientists have found few differences in children’s brains beyond the larger volume of boys’ brains and the earlier completion of girls’ brain growth — neither of which is known to relate to learning. 7Critics of single-sex education argue that socializing, especially between genders, should be an integral part of education. â€Å"Positive and cooperative interaction with members of other sex is an effective method for improving intergroup relationships,† according to the authors. 8On the other hand, an influential conservative political movement, represented by the presidency of Ronald Reagan; public concerns about sexual freedom; a rise in unmarried–particularly teenage– pregnancy; and the growth of sexually transmitted diseases led to a reexamination of coeducational policies. There is evidence, however, that sex segregation increases gender divisions among children. â€Å"Separating boys and girls in public school classrooms makes gender very salient, and this salience reinforces stereotypes and sexism,† Fabes said. 9Moreover, for both girls and boys co-education provides a more realistic way of training young people to take their places naturally in the wider community of men and women. It helps to break down the misconceptions of each sex about the other and provides an excellent foundation for the development of realistic, meaningful and lasting relationships in later life. 10The authors note that research has shown that labeling and segregation of any form – be it, gender, eye color, or randomly assigned T-shirt groups – is detrimental as this implies that the groups differ in important ways which may lead to the development of bias. â€Å"Is it ever good to segregate on the basis of race, income or age? I think the answer is no,† Fabes said. â€Å"There is no good evidence that it is ever a good time to separate and segregate. Any form of segregation undermines rather than promotes equality. † Source: Arizona State University http://psychcentral. com/news/2011/09/23/single-sex-schools-fail-to-improve-learning/29723. html Writer’s Arguments Counterarguments Writer’s Refutation

College Interview Essay

Most college interview questions are meant to help you and the interviewer find out if the college is a good match for you. Rarely will you get a question that puts you on the spot or tries to make you feel stupid. Remember, the college is trying to make a good impression too. Use the interview to show off your personality in ways that aren’t possible on the application. 1. Tell me about yourself. Im Romualda Heredia who really love silence place. Because of that people called me a very quiet person. That’s make me unique because of my silence,people got make mistakes in judging me. They think that I can’t do that and can’t do this but one day they are often surprise of my excellency. So im a typical mysterious person. This question seems easier than it is. How do you reduce your whole life to a few sentences? And it’s hard to avoid commonplace answers like â€Å"I’m friendly† or â€Å"I’m a good student. † Of course you want to demonstrate that you’re friendly and studious, but try also to say something memorable here that really makes you different from other college applicants. Can you hold your breath longer than anyone in your school? Do you have a huge collection of Pez dispensers? Do you have unusual cravings for sushi? â€Å"Tell me about yourself. † It seems like such an easy question. In some ways, it is. After all, if there’s one subject you truly know something about, it’s yourself. The challenge, however, is that knowing yourself and articulating your identity in a few sentences are very different things. Before setting foot in the interview room, make sure you put some thought into what it is that makes you unique. Certain characteristics are desirable, but they are not unique. The majority of students applying to selective colleges can make claims such as these: â€Å"I’m hard working. † â€Å"I’m responsible. † â€Å"I’m friendly. † â€Å"I’m a good student. † â€Å"I’m loyal. † Granted, all of these answers point to important and positive character traits. Of course colleges want students who are hard working, responsible, and friendly. That’s a no-brainer. And ideally your application and interview answers will convey the fact that you are a friendly and hard-working student. These answers, however, are all predictable. Nearly every applicant could give the same answers. If we go back to the initial question — â€Å"Tell me about yourself† — we need to recognize that the answers any applicant can give do not successfully define what characteristics make you special. The interview is your best opportunity to convey your unique personality and passions, so you want to answer questions in ways that show that you are you, not a clone of a thousand other applicants. So, when asked to tell about yourself, don’t spend too much time on the predictable answers. Show the interviewer who you are. What are your passions? My passion are writing and reading novels. I like those two because it comforts me a lot whenever im alone. What are your quirks? My quirks are Why do your friends really like you? They like me when I told them funny quote or stories in serious manner. They are always convinced of my seriouseness but in the end,,it is something that makes them laugh . What makes you laugh? I laugh when nobody laugh at my jokes. I don’t know why but im used to it. What makes you angry? Im angy most of the time when I met some irritating and annoying person. I don’t like those kind of person because its not in my attitude. Did you teach your dog to play the piano? Do you make a killer wild strawberry pie? Do you do your best thinking when on a 100-mile bike ride? Do you read books late at night with a flashlight? Do you have unusual cravings for oysters? Have you ever successfully started a fire with sticks and a shoelace? Were you ever sprayed by a skunk taking out the compost in the evening? You are almost guaranteed to be asked to tell about yourself, and your interviewer truly is interested in getting to know you. Your answers need to take the question seriously and you need to answer sincerely, but make sure you are actually painting a colorful and detailed portrait of yourself, not a simple line sketch. Be specific when answering this, and show that you’ve done your research. Also, avoid answers like â€Å"I want to make a lot of money† or â€Å"Graduates of your college get good job placement. † You want to highlight your intellectual interests, not your materialistic desires. What specifically about the college distinguishes it from other schools you’re considering? 2†³Why are you interested in our college? † Like many of the most common interview questions, this one seems like a no-brainer. After all, if you are interviewing at a school, you have presumably done some research and know why you are interested in the place. Nevertheless, some answers to this question are better than others. Your answer should show that you have specific and admirable reasons for attending the college. The following answers are not likely to impress your interviewer: â€Å"Your college is prestigious. † â€Å"I’ll make lots of money with a degree from your college. † â€Å"All my friends are going to your college. † â€Å"Your college is convenient and close to home. † â€Å"My counselor told me to apply. † â€Å"You’re my safetly school. † The interviewer is hoping that you are interested in the college for reasons other than peer pressure or convenience. Similarly, if you say you applied entirely because of a parent or counselor’s recommendation, you’ll be suggesting that you lack initiative and have few thoughts of your own. When it comes to prestige and earning potential, the issue is a bit more fuzzy. After all, name recognition and your future salary are both important. The interviewer most likely is hoping that you find the college prestigious. That said, you don’t want to come across as someone who is more concerned with material gain and prestige than with pursuing your passions and getting a high quality education. Many students choose a college based on sports. If you love nothing more than playing soccer, you’re likely to look at colleges that have strong soccer teams. During the interview, however, keep in mind that students who are interested in nothing except sports often fail to graduate. Any answer you give about athletics should be balanced with academics. What you most need to do when answering this question is show the interviewer that you know the college’s distinctive features well. Don’t simply say that you want to go to the college to get a good education. Be specific. Let the interviewer know that you were drawn to the college’s innovative first-year program, its emphasis on experiential learning, its Honors Program, or its international focus. Also feel free to mention the school’s wonderful hiking trails, its quirky traditions, or its amazing lilacs. Whatever you say, be specific. Before you set foot in the interview room, make sure you have done your research and identified several features of the college that you find particularly appealing, and make sure at least one of those features is academic in nature. 3. What can I tell you about our college? You can almost guarantee that your interviewer will provide an opportunity for you to ask questions. Make sure you have some, and make sure your questions are thoughtful and specific to the particular college. Avoid questions like â€Å"when is the application deadline? † or â€Å"how many majors do you have? † This information is both uninteresting and readily available on the school’s webpage. Come up with some probing and focused questions: â€Å"What would graduates of your college say was the most valuable thing about their four years here? † â€Å"I read that you offer a major in interdisciplinary studies. Could you tell me more about that? † 4. Who in your life has most influenced you? There are other variations of this question: Who’s your hero? What historical or fictional character would you most like to be like? This can be an awkward question if you haven’t thought about it, so spend a few minutes considering how you would answer. Identify a few real, historical, and fictional characters you admire, and be prepared to articulate WHY you admire them. Myself — In truth, you probably are the person who is most responsible for your success. You may, in fact, be self-reliant with no real heroes. However, if you answer this question with yourself you will sound self-absorbed and selfish. Colleges want to admit students who help each other out and work as a community. They don’t want solitary egotists. A Friend — For good or bad, your close friends have a huge influence on your decisions and behavior. Whatever your answer, bring the influential person to life for your interviewer. Avoid vague generalities. Provide colorful, entertaining, and specific examples of how the person has influenced you. 5. Why do you want to major in ______________ ? Realize that you don’t need to have decided upon a major when you apply to college, and your interviewer will not be disappointed if you say you have many interests and you need to take more classes before choosing a major. However, if you have identified a potential major, be prepared to explain why. Avoid saying that you want to major in something because you’ll make a lot of money — your passion for a subject will make you a good college student, not your greed. Read more tips on this question†¦ Make sure you are ready to explain why you are interested in a particular field. What experiences or high school courses piqued your interest? At some large universities it is possible that you will need to pick a field of study when you apply. For example, some of the California public universities are trying to balance enrollments within different programs. And if you are applying to a business or engineering school within a larger university, you will often need a specialized application for that school. 6†³Tell me about a challenge that you overcame. † The question isn’t a difficult one as long as you’ve put a couple of minutes of thought into it before your interview. The main danger with the question is being unable to think of an appropriate challenge during the interview. Realize that you can draw from many different kinds of â€Å"challenges† when you answer this question. You don’t need to have lived a life of adversity or oppression to have a meaningful challenge to discuss. So your first step is to figure out what challenge you want to share with your interviewer. You would be wise to shy away from anything that is too personal — you don’t want your interviewer to feel uncomfortable. But an appropriate challenge can come in many forms: An academic challenge — Perhaps you found chemistry or English particularly difficult? A challenge at work — Did you have a boss or co-worker who was difficult to work with? An athletic challenge — Did you have to work hard to improve your skills? Did you have a competition that was especially demanding? A personal tragedy — Did you lose someone close to you and have a hard time getting over the loss? A personal goal — Did you set a goal for yourself that was difficult to accomplish? An ethical dilemma — Were you put in a position where none of your options were attractive? Keep in mind the purpose of this type of question. The interviewer isn’t necessarily interested in hearing about some horror story from your past. Rather, the question is designed to help the interviewer discover what type of problem solver you are. College is all about developing critical thinking and problem solving skills, so the interviewer wants to see that you have promise in these areas. When confronted with a challenge, how do you respond? 7†³What do you do in your free time? † The interviewer might ask this question in one of many ways: What do you do for fun? What do you do when you’re not in school? What do you do on your weekends? This is not a trick question, and many kinds of answers will do well. The interviewer is simply trying to get to know you better. College is about much more than academic classes, and the admissions folks want to know how you keep yourself busy when you’re not doing schoolwork. The most attractive students are those who do interesting things in their spare time. So, when you answer the question, make sure you actually sound like you do interesting things in your spare time. Answers like these will not impress: I like hangin’ with my friends. (Do you actually do anything with those friends, or do you just take up space on our little planet? ) I do Facebook in all my free time. (This is true for many students, but too much online time is a major source of poor academic performance in college) I like partying. (Another activity that, if a abused, has caused many students to fail out of college) I watch lots of TV. (Many of us watch too much TV; don’t highlight that fact during your interview) I don’t have any free time. (This answer is true for some highly involved students, but it is an evasive answer; what would you do if you did have free time? ) I’ve been reading all of the Greek classics. (Good for you, but really? Colleges like good scholars, but they also want students who occasionally take their heads out of their books) The best answer to this question will show that you have passions outside of the classroom. The question allows you to show that you are well rounded. Within reason, it doesn’t much matter what you do in your free time as long as you do something. Do you love working on cars? Playing a pick-up game of soccer? Hiking in the neighboring mountains? Experimenting in the kitchen? Building rockets? Playing word games with your younger brother? Painting sunsets? Surfing? Your transcript will show that you are a good student. Your answer to this question will show that you are also someone who has diverse interests that will enrich the campus community. 8†³What do you see yourself doing 10 years from now? † This interview question can come in many flavors: What do you want to do with your life? What are your goals? What is your dream job? What do you want to do with your college degree? However your interviewer phrases the question, the goal is similar. The college admissions folks want to see if you have thought about your future. A lot of students don’t succeed in college for the simple reason that they don’t have a clear sense of why college is important to them and their goals. This interview question is subtly asking you to show how college fits into your long-term planning. Realize that you definitely do not need to know what you want to be doing ten years from now. College is a time of exploration and discovery. Many prospective college students have not yet been introduced to the fields that will define their future careers. The majority of students will change majors before they graduate. Many students will have careers that aren’t directly connected to their undergraduate majors. That said, you don’t want to evade the question. Answers such as these may be accurate, but they won’t impress anybody: â€Å"I don’t know. † True enough, but keep on reading to see a better way to present your uncertainty. â€Å"I’m not sure what I’ll be doing, but I want to be making lots of money. † This answer suggests that you have no academic interests, but you have strong materialistic desires. Such attitudes aren’t very attractive to a college that is trying to enroll an interesting and engaged group of students. â€Å"I want to be working for a big company. † Try to focus more. What type of company? Why? A vague answer isn’t going to create a strong impression. â€Å"I hope I’ll be married with kids. † That’s fine, but the interviewer isn’t really asking about your personal life (in fact, it wouldn’t be appropriate for an interviewer to ask about your future plans for family and marriage). Keep focused on career goals that are connected to your college education. So, if asked about your future goals, be honest but also answer in a way that shows you have actually thought about the relationship between college and your future. Here are a couple ways to approach the question: â€Å"I want to major in aeronautical engineering and work for NASA. † If you know what you want to do, an interview question about your future is easy to answer. However, be sure to elaborate and explain why you want to pursue a certain career path. What got you interested in the field? What do you hope to accomplish in this career? â€Å"I don’t know what I will be doing, but I know I want to work with people. In college I’m interested in taking classes in sociology and psychology to learn what some of the options are. † An answer such as this shows your uncertainty, but it shows that you know yourself, you’ve thought about the future, and you are eager to explore new fields of study. Again, the interviewer is not expecting you to know what you will be doing in ten years. If you can see yourself in five different careers, say so. You will have successfully answered this question if you do more than shrug your shoulders or evade the question. Show that you are excited about the future and that college plays a role in that future. 9†³Does your high school record accurately reflect your effort and ability? † This interview question provides you with an opportunity to explain a bad grade or weak spot in your academic record. Nearly all highly selective colleges have holistic admissions, so the admissions officers want to get to know you as a person, not just as a list of grades and test scores. Your interviewer knows that you are human and that extenuating circumstances can sometimes affect your academic performance. That said, you don’t want to sound like a whiner or grade grubber. If you have mostly A’s, don’t feel that you need to come up with an excuse for that one B+. Also, make sure you’re not blaming others for your own academic performance. The admissions folks won’t be impressed if you complain about an unreasonable teacher who doesn’t give out easy A’s. The following responses are all poor ways to answer the question: â€Å"I’m very good at math, but my teacher didn’t like me. That’s why I got a C+. † Really? This response suggests that you aren’t mature enough to own up to the grade you earned. Was your math teacher really that biased and unprofessional? And if so, why didn’t you address the unethical behavior with school officials? Even if your teacher didn’t like you, this isn’t something you want to highlight in your interview. Are you unlikable? â€Å"I worked really hard, so I don’t know why my grades weren’t higher. † This response makes you sound clueless. Students who don’t understand the low grades they earned are risky prospects for a college to admit. Successful students know what went wrong, and they work to address the problems. â€Å"I would have put more effort into my classes, but I was too busy with my job and sports. † While this response may be honest, it will not create a good impression. It’s wonderful that you are busy with work and athletics, but successful college students have strong time management skills and they give academics top priority. â€Å"I didn’t have to work hard to get all those A’s. † Shhh. Sure, we all had classes that were easy A’s, but don’t draw attention to this fact during your interview. So, how should you answer a question about the relationship between your record, your effort and your ability? In general, take ownership of your grades and justify low grades only if you have truly extenuating circumstances. The responses below would all be appropriate: â€Å"My parents got divorced at the beginning of my sophomore year, and I’m afraid I was too distracted to put in my best effort at school. † Fair enough. Big upheavals at home — divorce, death, abuse, frequent moves — can certainly make it difficult to devote 100% of your effort to academics. If a large domestic issue did affect your grades, your interviewer will want to know about it. Ideally, however, your academic record shows that the dip in grades was short-lived. If your grades never recovered, the admissions officers will wonder if you have gotten your act together enough to do well in college. â€Å"I had gallbladder surgery in 9th grade and was on a lot of pain medications. † Serious illness or surgery can certainly disrupt your academic efforts, and it is worth mentioning this type of disruption if it had a negative impact on your grades. Here, as with the response above, your record should show that the dip in grades was temporary. Make sure you are talking about serious health issues. Your interviewer will not be impressed if you try to blame that weak semester on the sniffles. â€Å"Yes, my record does reflect my effort. I didn’t work as hard as I should have in 9th grade, but by 10th grade I had figured out how to be a successful student. † The honesty of this response is refreshing. Some students figure out how to succeed later than others. There is nothing wrong with this. In general, colleges will be pleased to see that your grades have trended upwards throughout high school. A downward trend will raise red flags. Again, don’t be tempted to explain every little aberration in your academic record. The interviewer is really looking to see if you had any major extenuating circumstances that affected your grades. If you come across as the type of student who goes on a rant complaining about a single B+, you’re going to sound like an annoying whiner. 10. â€Å"Recommend a Good Book to Me. † The question can come in many different forms: â€Å"What’s the last book you read? â€Å"; â€Å"Tell me about a good book you’ve read recently†;†What’s your favorite book? Why? â€Å"; â€Å"What types of books do you like to read? â€Å"; â€Å"Tell me about a good book you read for pleasure. † Whatever the form of the question, the interviewer is trying to learn a few things by asking about your reading habits and book preferences: Do you read for pleasure. Active readers are people who are intellectually curious. They are also people who are likely to have better reading comprehension and writing skills than non-readers. Students who read a lot in high school are more likely to succeed in college than students who don’t. Do you know how to talk about books. A lot of your college course work will involve discussing and writing about what you have read. This interview question helps figure out if you are up for the challenge. Your interests. You are likely to get asked about your interests and passions in another interview question, but books are one more way to approach the topic. If you have a love of novels about Cold War espionage, that information helps the interviewer get to know you better. A book recommendation. An interview is a two-way conversation, and your interviewer may actually want to learn about some good books he or she isn’t familiar with. Don’t try to second guess this question too much by recommending a book simply because it has historical or cultural significance. You’ll sound insincere if you state that Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress is your favorite book when in truth your much prefer Stephen King novels. Nearly any work of fiction or nonfiction can work for this question as long as you have things to say about it and it is at an appropriate reading-level for a college-bound student. There are, however, a few types of works that might be weaker choices than others. In general, avoid works such as these:Works that were obviously assigned in class. Part of this question is to see what you read outside of class. If you name To Kill a Mockingbird or Hamlet, you’ll sound as if you’ve never read anything but assigned books. Juvenile fiction. You don’t need to hide your love of Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Redwall books, but these works are also loved by kids much younger than you. You’d do better to recommend a book that is more in line with a college-level reader. Works chosen simply to impress. James Joyce’s Finnegan’s Wake isn’t anyone’s favorite book, and you’ll sound insincere if you recommend a challenging book in an effort to make yourself look smart. The issue gets a little more fuzzy with works like Harry Potter and Twilight. Certainly plenty of adults (like me) devoured all of the Harry Potter books, and you’ll even find college courses on Harry Potter. You certainly don’t need to hide the fact that you were addicted to popular series such as these. That said, so many people love these books (including much younger readers) that they make for a rather predictable and uninteresting answer to the interviewer’s question. So what is the ideal book? Try to come up with something that fits these general guidelines: Pick a book that you sincerely love and that you are comfortable talking about. Pick a book with enough substance to it so that you can explain why you like the book. Pick a book that is at an appropriate reading level; something that is a huge hit among fourth-graders is probably not your best choice. Pick a book that gives the interviewer a window into your interests and passions. This last point is important — the interviewer wants to get to know you better. This interview question isn’t so much about the book you choose as it is about you. Make sure you are able to articulate why you are recommending the book. Why did the book speak to you more than other books? What about the book did you find so compelling? How did the book engage issues that you are passionate about? How did the book open your mind or create new understanding? 11=†If you could do one thing in high school differently, what would it be? † This interview question is a bit trickier than most. You’ll want to make sure you don’t wallow in regret or draw attention to really bad decisions you’ve made. You have a tough balancing act to negotiate with a question like this. The best interviews are ones in which the interviewer feels like he or she has really gotten to know you. If all of your answers are calculated and safe, you’ll end up making a tepid impression at best. At the same time, providing too much information is also a danger, and this interview question can easily lead to TMI. In general, you’d probably be wise to avoid answers related to topics such as these: Your relationships. It wouldn’t be surprising if your biggest regret from high school was a disastrous relationship. However, if you answer the interview question with details about that nasty boyfriend or girlfriend, you’ll be introducing a lot of negativity into your interview. This type of response can easily sound immature, ungenerous, and spiteful. Steer clear. A class you hated. Do you really regret taking that class with that jerk of a teacher? Fine, but keep it to yourself. The best students can navigate all kinds of classroom environments, and your interviewer won’t be impressed if you start bad-mouthing your teachers. Your problems with drugs or alcohol. If you got messed up with drugs or alcohol in college, hopefully you do wish that you could go back and do things differently. That said, the college interview is not the best place to address this issue. While your interviewer may be impressed with your ability to confront your substance abuse, he or she may also feel uneasy about admitting a student who abused alcohol or drugs. Your interviewer may question your judgment or feel that you represent too great of a risk to the college. After all, colleges have enough problems with substance abuse without admitting students who have a proven track record of abuse. The best answers to this interview question will put a positive spin on it. A strong answer doesn’t express regret about a bad decision; instead, it presents regret over not seizing all the opportunities available to you. For example, the following would make good responses: You wish you had taken calculus instead of an easier math class. You wish you had looked for a more challenging job than the local burger joint. You wish you had discovered earlier in high school that you really enjoy theater. You wish you had worked harder in your freshmen year (some students are late bloomers, and your interviewer won’t hold this against you) A more personal response is also appropriate as long as it presents you in a positive light. Perhaps you wish you had spent more time with your grandmother before she came down with cancer, or perhaps you wish you had helped your brother more when he was struggling in school. Think carefully about this question before you set foot in the interview room. It’s not a difficult question, but it does have the ability to go astray if you draw attention to an action that reveals foolishness or poor judgment. +===The majority of college interviewers aren’t looking to trick you or put you on the spot. The interview is a way for you and a representative from the college to get to know each other. The interview helps you and the college figure out if you’re a good match. Try to relax and be yourself, and the interview should be a pleasant experience. The 20 questions below are meant to supplement my original 12 college interview questions. Also be sure to check out these 10 college interview mistakes. 1. What did you do this summer? This is an easy question that an interviewer might use to get the conversation rolling. The biggest danger here is if you haven’t done anything productive in the summer. â€Å"I played a lot of video games† isn’t a good answer. Even if you didn’t have a job or take classes, try to think of something you have done that was a learning experience. 2. What do you do best? There are lots of ways to ask this question, but the bottom line is that the interviewer wants you to identify what you see as your greatest talent. There’s nothing wrong with identifying something that isn’t central to your college application. Even if you were first violin in the all-state orchestra or the starting quarterback, you can identify your best talent as making a mean cherry pie or carving animal figurines out of soap. The interview can be an opportunity to show a side of yourself that isn’t obvious on the written application. 3. What do you hope to do after graduation? Lots of high school students have no idea what they want to do in the future, and that’s okay. Still, you should formulate an answer to this question. If you’re not sure what your career goals are, say so, but provide a few possibilities. 4. Why do you want to go to college? This question is so broad and seemingly obvious that it can catch you by surprise. Why college? Steer clear of materialistic responses (â€Å"I want to get a good job and make a lot of money†). Instead, focus on what it is that you plan to study. Chances are your particular career goals aren’t possible without a college education. 5. How do you define success? Here again you want to avoid sounding too materialistic. Hopefully success means making a contribution to the world, not just your wallet. 6. Who do you most admire? This question really isn’t so much about who you admire but why you admire someone. The interviewer wants to see what character traits you most value in other people. 7. What is your biggest weakness? This is a common question, and it’s always a tough one to answer. It can be dangerous to be too honest (â€Å"I put off all my papers until an hour before they are due†), but evasive answers that actually present a strength often won’t satisfy the interviewer (â€Å"My greatest weakness is that I have too many interests and I work too hard†). Try to be honest here without damning yourself. The interviewer is trying to see how self-aware you are. 8. Tell me about your family. When you interview for college, an easy question like this can help get the conversation rolling. Try to be specific in your description of your family. Identify some of their funny quirks or obsessions. In general,however, keep the representation positive — you want to present yourself as a generous person, not someone who is hyper-critical. 9. What makes you special? Or the interview might ask, â€Å"What makes you unique? † It’s a more difficult question than it might at first appear. Playing a sport or getting good grades is something that many students do, so such accomplishments aren’t necessarily â€Å"special† or â€Å"unique. † Try to get beyond your accomplishments and think about what really makes you you. 10. What can our college offer you that another college can’t? This question is a little different than one asking why you want to go to a specific college. Do your research and look for the truly unique features of the college for which you are interviewing. Does it have unusual academic offerings? Does it have a distinctive first-year program? Are there co-curricular or internship opportunities that can’t be found at other schools?

Drug Abuse Essay

Drug abuse has an effect on all aspects of life; overall health and wellness, family life, and the community. With there being so many different kinds of drugs the effects are endless. The effect of drug abuse does not discriminate or focus on any one person. Drug abuse can be found in any area of the world and the overall effects can be devastating to anyone involved. A person’s choice to use any kind of illegal drug or abusing prescribed medicines can have a damaging impact on their overall health and wellness. This damaging effect on addicts overall health and wellness can be both short and long term. An active addict can face many health changes and challenges throughout the time that they choose to use. There can be many short term effects that depend on exactly what drug is being abused. There are drugs that can raise your heart rate, make you hallucinate, and even dehydrate you badly. â€Å"The impact of addiction can be far reaching. Cardiovascular disease, stroke, cancer, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and lung disease can all be affected by drug abuse. Some of these effects occur when drugs are used at high doses or after prolonged use; however, some may occur after just one use.† An addict can face many mental health issues during their addiction that can have a devastating effect on their own life. Women substance abusers are more likely than men to have poor self-concepts (low self-esteem, guilt, self-blame) and high rates of mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar affective disorder, suicidal ideation, psychosexual disorders, eating disorders, and Post traumatic stress disorder.† â€Å"Chronic use of some drugs of abuse can cause long-lasting changes in the brain, which may lead to paranoia, depression, aggression, and hallucinations.† The addict has a giant effect on their family and home environment. There can be many issues that a family must face when an addict is living in the home. There can be many forms of abuse in a home where there is an addict. There can be sexual abuse, financial abuse, physical abuse and emotional abuse in any home. The addiction is not responsible for the violence but can intensify and make it more common. When an addict is deep in their addiction they will often put financial responsibilities of the home off to get high instead. This can cause child neglect by no food being in home, no  electricity or heat. There can be consequences for the children living in a home with an active addict. These consequences may not show up for years until the child of the addict is grown. â€Å"The disturbed home and family setup, the inter-parental and parent-child conflict, parental neglect in large families, defective disciplinary techniques (too lax or too strict) and family disorganization ar e considered as some of the causes of drug abuse.† There is a higher risk of children of an addict growing up to become addicts themselves An addict has an effect on the community in which they live. This effect from an addict can cause problems for the entire community There is more possibility of crime and erratic behavior in the community where an active addict is living. A defining characteristic of addictive behavior is that they involve in the pursuit of short-term gratification at the expense of long-term harm When a person is under the influence of any drug they may not be fully conscious of the choices that they are making. When there is an active drug area in the community there is usually more violence and less desired living situations. When there are drugs in a common area that area becomes more prone to violence and could actually desensitize the people in the community When you have shootings, robberies, rapes, and murders in any area there will be less of a desire for anybody to want to live there. Conclusion In conclusion with their being so much drug abuse in today’s society where do we begin to help break the cycle? We have seen that the problem is a mental health issue that begins with the addict; however drug abuse has an effect on all aspects of life; overall health and wellness, family life, and the community. If we stop judging the addicts and making them feel so much shame and embarrassment, we can lift them up, encourage them and support them to better then it can change the overall hurt and damage that is being inflicted on our people and society.