Executive Summary Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 14

Executive Summary - Essay Example teve Jobs; decline in share prices; and emergence of stiffer competitors offering cheaper products; among others, investors and spectators were gleaming at any possibility that Apple’s future performance could be on the decline. First, to counter competitors’ move of producing relatively cheaper alternatives to the iPhone, it was revealed that â€Å"Apple could produce an iPhone for less than $150 to broaden its appeal† (Has Apple peaked? par. 7). This is a viable strategy given that competitors have already launched several alternatives to the smartphone at significantly affordable prices; especially in emerging markets, like China. Secondly, Horace Dediu, a spokesperson from Asymco, a research firm, was cited to disclose that â€Å"it would be a mistake to think Apple is resting on its laurels† (Has Apple peaked? par. 13). His proof was the soaring of capital expenditure of Apple which is an indication that it is producing a new product to be launched in the market. Third, the legal battle Apple has encountered with Samsung was noted to be indicative of it being on the defensive stance. I am convinced that any organization threatened by competitors in terms of product patent would do the same thing. As a competitor, like Samsung, the apparent increase in capital expenditure that indicates that Apple is concocting a new innovative product should spur me to increase my research capabilities and try to find out from all possible avenues what these technological gadgets could be. Likewise, I could set my product engineers to design new, creative, and more innovative gadgets that would potentially be seen as blockbuster products and could be purchased at relatively cheaper amounts than what Apple normally offers. If I am personally involved in Apple as an employee, I would definitely by knowledgeable of any possible new product innovation or future product launches that are being designed. As such, I could validate that Apple could simple be at the steady state

A ball is dropped from affects the re-bounce of it Essay Example for Free

A ball is dropped from affects the re-bounce of it Essay Analysis:As the results and the graph attached overleaf shows, the line of best fit indicates that my prediction was correct, although due to experimental error it is not exact. However, as the end column displaying the percentage loses shows, although the percentage losses vary they are all around the same point. I think air resistance did have an affect and slow the ball down, this meant it was unable to pick up a lot of speed, meaning it didnt have much kinetic energy and what it did have was lost when it was still for a split second as it squashed; released more energy in the form of heat. Therefore the percentage loss increases near the end as the drop height increases. I think that my prediction about the percentage loss was right because the end column shows no big anomalies, which means that the ball was constantly losing the same amount of energy wherever I drop the ball. This indicates that the air resistance did not have as bid affect as I thought. Towards the end of my experiment, the graph shows a clear place where a factor influenced my results. The last three points are some what away form the trend of the rest; this could be because I had reached a point where terminal velocity concluded. I think this because they are significantly lower than the rest of the points. This leads me to believe that air resistance had an affect of the bounce height due to terminal velocity no longer being in control. These last results are anomalies as they do not follow the trend of the rest, and are notably away from the line of best fit. I would expect to get a result of approximately 22 when dropping from one metre; however I actually got about 21. 5. consequently, I believe Moreover, I expected that if I dropped it from 100cm it would be double that of the bounce from 50cm. This was incorrect, as 12. 3 x 2 does not equal 20. 407. I believe this was because in this case air resistance did have an affect, or the heat I expected to transfer from my hand did not, maybe due to it me doing the experiment in the middle of winter. On the other hand, in my prediction I stated that the bounce height would increase as the drop height increases, and the straight line defiantly shows this. In my opinion, at the end of the graph, the gradient increases causing a steeper end to the graph. This is probably because I did these heights at the end of the experiment, therefore the ball will have had time to warm up, causing the molecules inside to move around and make the outer edge of the ball harder, meaning it bounces higher. I believe that my graph does not have a very steep gradient due to that when I drop the ball higher; the friction against the air coincidently increased. I decided to draw my graph from the origin point, as that is the only point of the graph that is free of experimental error, as you cant drop a ball from nothing and expect it to bounce, as it has no GPE. Evaluation: Overall, I do not think this experiment was very reliable, as there were so many factors that were out of my control to manage. These were such things as the air temperature, the air resistance, heat, and the pressure inside the ball. The air temperature could have affected the activity of the molecules inside the ball, and brought into action the Kinetic theory. The kinetic theory is that of the molecules gaining more energy and exerting it on moving around, consequently colliding with each other and making the ball harder due to the increase in the pressure. This may have made the ball bounce harder as it got hotter through the experiment. Although I said pressure would be one of my controls, I did not take into account the pressure building up due to the heat transferred. Moreover, I could not control the air resistance, although this should have stayed constant, I cant be sure. If the air temperature increased through the experiment, maybe because of the body heat given off, it would mean that the air resistance increased. This is because the heat gives the molecules energy, so the ball would have to use more energy to push past them. This energy is then lost, and means that the ball does not have as much energy as it would if it were cooler. Furthermore, I think because we used our eyesight to determine the height of the re-bounce, this made our results even more unreliable. Yet, on-the-other-hand, I also think my results were as reliable as could I could get them. This is due to the limited time and equipment. For instance, because we used a clamp and stand to hold up the ruler, it made the results trustworthier than someone holding it up. Also, the only thing we varied was the height we dropped the ball, everything else was kept exactly the same, for example, the ball we used, and the surface we worked on. Whats more, I followed the procedure correctly and missed nothing out. I measured the height of the re-bounce from the bottom of the ball instead of the top, as when we dropped it the bottom was inline with the top of the ruler. Moreover, because I got an average, it reduced the affect of anomalous results, which meant my result are unlikely to be flawed due to me as the dropper. I do not think the way I measured the height was very accurate, as it depends on individual eyesight, and everyones level of eyesight is different. Although, they way I dropped the ball, and how we went about trying to record the closest measurement was accurate. This is because I used only my finger and thumb to hold the ball, this was to pass as little heat over as possible, and stop dropping the ball with an added force. I believe this worked, as on my graph there are no obvious anomalies, the line is not straight, but that is due to only a small bit of experimental error. If I repeated the experiment there would be lots of things that I would do differently. I would conduct the experiment on the floor instead of on the bench, as maybe the increase G. P. E on the bench influenced my results. Also, I would find some way of controlling the air temperature, and the air resistance, although this would have to be done outside of the lab. I think that the temperature and the air resistance did have an effect on my results as the percentage of energy lost increased as I dropped the ball from higher positions. Moreover, I would find a way to measure the level of the re-bounce that would be more dependable than using my own eyesight. This is because, as I have said, eyesight is not consistent as things such as the light intensity, which may affect the recording of the results, can influence it. Furthermore, I would increase my drop heights to 200cm, as I think if I carried on longer, my graph would show a definite point where terminal velocity came into action, and also that that graph would perhaps increase its gradient as the ball got hotter through the experiment. This would be useful as it would mean my results could be analysed further and draw a conclusion more valid. Although, if I did do the investigation again, I would keep the squash ball in my experiments. I believe it gave reliable results subject to the terms and conditions that applied freely. Also, I would use the same unit of measurements, as they showed the results clearly and were more appropriate than other methods. I could repeat the experiment under converse conditions by for instance changing the surface, or the air temperature. I could also vary the ball I used, as this would allow me to compare different bounce heights from the same drop height. This would mean I could calculate the efficiency of the balls I used. Whats more I could change how I measure the height it bounces back, or actually what I measure. I could measure the efficiency of the ball, and how the height I drop it from affects the amount of energy is lost.

Occupational Gender Segregation In British Labour Market Sociology Essay

Occupational Gender Segregation In British Labour Market Sociology Essay The essay will concentrate on the phenomenon of an occupational gender segregation that women continue to suffer in the labour market in Britain. Firstly this essay will look at some statistics surrounding women in the employment. Secondly, the paper will consider theories that try to explain the occupational segregation by sex. The essay will examined the neo-classical economic theories of human capital and rational choice. Moreover, the paper will evaluate if these theories stands up as an argument to reason the occupational gender segregation. Then the concept of patriarchy which is at the centre of feminist theory will be presented and appraised in connection with understanding the cause of occupational sex segregation. The last theory to be assessed in relation to disadvantage experienced by women in the labour market will be the idea of preference theory based on Catherine Hakims study. Despite over forty years since first Equal Opportunities legislation has been introduced, labour market in the United Kingdom is marked by the sexual segregation in occupations that women so often experience. Labour Market Statistics( 2010) highlights that 42.8% of female employees work in part-time jobs to compare with 11.9% of their male counterparts and 74.4% of all employees in part-time jobs are women; thus part-time jobs tend to be seen as womens work. This generates financial consequences for women. Recent survey by Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (2009, p.5) illustrates that the full time gender pay gap is at 16.4% and the part time gender pay gap is at 13.2%. The Equal Opportunities Commission (2006) estimated that the gender pay gap would lose a woman working on full-time basis a cumulative amount of  £330,000, or  £210,000 after taxes over her life. Labour Force Survey (2006, p.5) also points out that women predominantly work in service occupations whereby men most ly work in management occupations and in professions that require high level of knowledge and skills. The neo-classical economic theories of human capital and rational choice represent a prominent proposition that attempts to clarify the reasons behind occupational sex segmentation. (Blackburn et al., 2002, p.515) The rational theory suggests that employees and employers behave sensibly in the labour market. Thus, people decide to invest in their qualifications and gain work experience in order to obtain the highest level of income possible after assessing the level and quality of their human capital and existing constrains to enter particular occupation (Anker, 1997, p.317). Furthermore, employers look for the highest return possible by increasing productivity and reducing costs. However, the rationality of employers actions may cause unequal treatment of women in employment sphere (Kirton and Greene, 2005, p.55). According to human capital theory, women entering labour market offer lower level of knowledge and skills, and less suitable qualifications that employers are looking for compare to men partly due to inequality women experience within education system (Haggerty and Johnson, 1995 p.212 and 216) and partly because women are predominant child carers and are solely responsible for home activities (Anker, 1997, p.317). Moreover, women obtain lower level of work experience than their male counterparts due to temporary or permanent exit from the labour market to look after their youngsters and households (Kirton and Greene, 2005, p.55). Neo-classical theories indicate that house duties make women often to opt for a part-time work, a full-time job that does not require much effort and energy (Blackburn et al., 2002, p.517). Therefore, female workers are often regarded by employers as less committed and less professional (Epstein et al., 1999 in Hardill and Watson, 2000, pp.21-22). In accordance with Polacheks theory, women usually select occupations that do not carry severe penalties for short-term breaks that women take to care for their children and homes (England, 1982, p.363). Furthermore, the employers often link female employees with higher indirect costs, which the most known is maternity leave. It is said that women are more likely to be late or absent at work than men, possibly due to home responsibilities (Kirton and Greene, 2005, p.57). The women are often associated with high level of turnover as they often quit their jobs after childbirth or in some cases after getting married (Anker, 1997, p.317).Thus, according to Becker (1971 in Anker, 1997, p.320), employers are rational when they abstain to employ women in order to avoid higher indirect costs. Despite of neo-classical theories contribution to explaining occupational sex segregation, there are some issues when these theories are the only one considered. Evidences have indicated that womens participation in employment has risen in Britain since 70s (Kirton and Greene, 2005, p.60). Labour market statistics (November 2010, p.3) indicates that recent women employment rate stands at 65.7% compare with just 56 % in 1971(Office for National Statistics 2009).An introduction of house appliances such as washing machines, cookers and microwaves has decreased significantly the time required to perform certain house activities in recent decades (Bowden and Offer, 1994, p.728). Moreover, recently more women are force to work to sustain themselves and their children due to a higher proportion of single parent households (Buvini, 1995 in Kirton and Greene, 2005, p.60). Census (2001) statistics have indicated that 90.5 %of households in England and Wales are headed by single women. These ch anges indicate that women have increased their work experience and in this way they have enhanced their human capital (Kirton and Greene, 2005, p.60). Considering the human capital theory these changes should enable women to enter occupations. However, women still face barriers to enter those occupations (Anker, 1997, p.320), and the reason for that is not explained by the economic theories. In accordance with economic theories, lower level of income achieved by women is fair as their level of human capital is much lower than that of the male workers. However, pay inequality between men and women is much higher than would be anticipated based on human capital reasoning (Treiman and Hartmann, 1981; World Bank, 1994 in Blackburn et al., 2002, p.517). Furthermore, womens pay inequality is not only bounded to women with children. There are many professions which also badly reward single women. Although rational choice theory explains that there is a belief that all women will have children, recent researches have highlighted that more and more women are fully dedicated to their careers and decide to have no children on their own (Browne 2000; Franks 1999 in Blackburn et al., 2002, p.519). When looking at indirect costs, they are perceived to be higher for female employees than their male counterparts; however, the evidence has shown that the rate of absenteeism and turnover is very similar for both genders (Anker, 1997, p.319). The argument of human capital theory that women traditionally choose professions that are not costly when suspended for a short-time (Watts and Rich, 1993, p.60) is disapproved by England (1982). The evidence England has put forward indicates that professions with a high rate of women do not necessary carry lower penalties for short-term breaks from work than professions with lower rate of women (England, 1982, p.365). The neo-classical theories arguments applied alone offers just limited explanation for occupational sex segregation. Kirton and Greene (2005, p.62) have put forward questions that the economic theories do not explain; why do certain social groups on average come to the labour market with lower levels of education and in what are seen as less relevant subjects? Why is housework and childcare and elder care almost always the sole responsibility of women? The gender theory concept of patriarchy should fill the gaps that exist in economic theories discussed earlier. According to Hartmann (1976, p.152-3), occupational gender segregation is a result of the phenomenon of patriarchy. This concept is concerned with a social situation where women are in subordinate position and are dominated, exploited, and undermined by powerful men (Bender L., 1988, pp.5-6); thus it seems to be intended as an explanation of vertical segregation (Blackburn et al., 2002, p.521). Women around the world are generally perceived to be housewives, and men to be main breadwinners in households. This might explain why women are solely accountable for most of the house activities and childcare (Anker, 1997, p. 324). Due to patriarchal system, women joining labour market are affected by their free house work; their incomes are perceived as extra money added to a primary incomes of their husbands. This in turn stimulates the gender pay gap that exists in the United Ki ngdom (Kirton and Greene, 2005, p.64). The fact that women occupy subordinate positions and perform house duties solely might explain why women enter the labour market with lower levels of education and are more likely to obtain qualifications that are less relevant to the labour market as it is believed that women have a lower desire for qualifications that are appropriate to labour market (Anker, 1997, p.324). Although the patriarchy theory is indented to comprehend the concept of occupational sex segregation, many scholars have highlighted some limitations when considered separately. Walbys claim that men have usually been successful in excluding women from the better work (1986,p.248) is disputed by evidences seen in the British society where many women work in better professions, and have better working and living conditions than many of their male counterparts (Blackburn et al.2002, p.521) The patriarchy theory reasoning is also looking bad when we take into consideration recent developments in the labour market, where shrinking of the male trades (such as mining, steel and docking) and the expansion of the service sector has favoured women more than men. The evidences have shown that in some parts of UK women account for most then 50% of the entire workforce (Browne, 2000 in Blackburn et al., 2002, p.521). The preference theory is a connection between gender theory of patriarchy and Goldbergs (1973, 1979, and 1993) biological theories. Hakim (1996 in Crompton and Harris, 998b, p.144) argues that men are more ruthless and ambitious than women due to higher testosterone levels in their organism. She presents the evidence which indicates that male labour market dominance is strongly supported by both genders. Furthermore, Hakim believes that women are not the same and they differ in relation to their family and work commitments (Blackburn et al., 2002, p.523).Their choices between job and home are not limited by any significant restrictions (Hakim in McRae, 2003, p.318) but are based purely on their preferences. Hakim (2002, p.434) assigns women to three groups. The first group involves the work-centred females who are highly committed to their jobs. The second group are the home-centred women. Women belonging to this group are devoted to their families and prefer to stay at home (Blackbu rn, 2001, p.523). The third group includes the adaptive women who juggle job and home or women who have no idea where their careers are going (McRae, 2003, p. 318). Hakim (1996, p.211) suggests that male solidarity wins because women dither, because they are swayed by the dominant male voice and also because women are divided in their preferences and interests. Thus, the interplay between womens differences, an argument of patriarchy theory of male domination and womens diverse priorities explains the womens employment position in Britain (Crompton and Harris, 1998b, p.144). Hakim (2002, p.435-7) suggests that only small proportion of women are fully concentrated on their careers or families. Large majority of females integrate family and work without fully committing to either (Hakim, 2002, p.434). This view is supported by evidences that have shown that only 10% of first-time mothers remain in full-time work where 90% of mothers mix periods of full-time and part-time work or leave the labour market permanently (McRae, 2003, p.322-3) However, preference theory also has some deficiencies. Blackburn et al. (2002, p.525) disagree with an argument that womens choices are not limited by any constraints. They point out that concerns such as possible income and childcare costs have a great impact on women choices that might be far from their preferred choice. McRae (2003, p.333) suggests that the evidences introduced in her paper shows that women are not as diverse as suggested by Hakim in their choices in regards to their work and family lifestyle but they are different in their capacities to act on those preferences. These evidences are clashing with an assumption of preference theory about female heterogeneity. This concluding part of the essay offer some general conclusions about the applicability of the theories analysed in this paper for the reason behind the occupational gender segregation in Britain presented by statistical data. Discussed in the paper theories of neo-classical, patriarchy and preference have been very useful to understanding why women experience disadvantage in the labour market. They have offered different and sometimes contrasting arguments. Thus, the main argument of human capital theory is that women are disadvantaged due to their lower level of education and work experience which is a product of inequality in a schooling system and sole responsibilities for home and children. Contrary to human capital theory, preference theory has argued that women choose to be committed or uncommitted to their work careers and there are no major constrains to prohibit women from joining the labour market. On the other hand the concept of patriarchy has highlighted that male domi nation over women in societies is the main reason behind occupational gender segregation. Despite their great value to comprehend the cause of occupational segregation by sex, all of these theories are flawed to same degree and neither should be considered separately. To fully understand the reason for women disadvantage in the employment relationship, there is a need to bring neo-classical, patriarchy and preference theories together.

Starbucks Essay -- GCSE Business Marketing Coursework

Star Bucks Problem Statement Howard Shultz and the senior management at Starbucks have to decide how to react to the opportunities that are being made available because of their rapid growth. The decision for a strategic growth plan has to be made in the near future. This will prove to be key for Starbucks reaching their long-term goal of becoming the most recognized and respected brand of coffee in the world. Situation Analysis Starbucks is currently the industry leader in specialty coffee. They purchased more high quality coffee beans than anyone else in the world and keep in good standings with the producers to ensure they get the best beans. Getting the best beans is only the first part, Starbucks also has a â€Å"closed loop system† that protects the beans from oxygen immediately after roasting to the time of packaging. They did this through their invention of a one-way valve which let the natural gasses escape but keeping oxygen out. This gave them the unique ability to ensure freshness and extended the shelf life to 26 weeks. Starbucks isn’t only about the coffee, it’s also about a place where people can escape to enjoy music, reflect, read, or just chat. It is a total coffee experience. The retail outlet has been responsible for much of Starbucks growth and has contributed substantially to their brand equity. The Starbucks case doesn’t mention many weaknesses. The main one, however, is their supply chain operations. This hasn’t caused any problems yet but they mention that handling four business units is becoming challenging. They have yet to come up with a long-term solution for such possible problems. As mention earlier Starbucks has many opportunities of which it can take advantage. These include a joint venture with McDonald’s, where the restaurant giant would supply its customers with Starbucks coffee. Another is the bottled Frappuccino product that Pepsi and Starbucks have created. This has had a very positive response in the test markets and posses to be a lucrative option. Starbucks could also look at the vertical integration possibility of producing its own beans. This could prove to be very successful if they can capture a significant amount of the production they could become a price setter in the coffee commodities. Also because small coffee retail outlets are so trendy it is possible for them to set ... ...nal locations in the heaviest coffee drinking countries. This has to be done quickly as to get the jump on other that may also be considering this type of a move. At the same time they should be selling franchise right for the coffee carts. This will provide an increased cash flow as well. During all of this Starbucks should be looking at coffee producers who are in financial trouble or are looking at selling their farms. This has to be done discretely as not to cause unnecessary bad press. After they run a couple of these coffee producing farms for a few years they should be able to see how the whole operation works and determine its viability. Once it’s proven viable they should send out simultaneous offers to the biggest producers as to catch them and other coffee companies off guard. Starbucks also should be getting into the bottled Frappuccino as soon as possible. They should leave the introduction of the product up to Pepsi because of their past experience. They should leave their entry into the grocery store market until some of these other strategies are implemented. This will prove to be the best strategy for Starbucks being able to reach their long-term gaol.

College Dorm vs Apartment

Going off to college after eighteen year of rules and restrictions underneath your parents’ roof can be a very exciting experience, but is it all that it appears to be? There are many pros and cons when it comes to both living at home, and in a college dorm. Fortunately for me I have been able to experience living in all three and I can definitely say that living in a college dorm is the better option. At first glance a college dorm seems like the best thing that has ever happened to you especially since you will no longer have your parents there to nag you. There are many obvious advantages to living in a college dorm.One of these advantages is the most obvious, you don’t have to follow all the rules that your parents have laid out for you, of course there will still be rules in your dorm but you will still have a sense freedom. There will always be rules in society so you can never escape that. Another major advantage of moving away to a college dorm would definitely be the experience. When I went off to college I met so many different people, learned so many knew things, and had many experiences that I will remember forever. Another pro of living in a dorm is that you finally get to learn how to be independent and truly take care of yourself. Mom won’t be there to wash your clothes or cook for you, so you easily gain knowledge on how to fend for yourself. Lastly, I feel an advantage of living in a dorm is that you learn how to prioritize and be more. You won’t have the luxury of your parents telling you to do your homework, so being away gives you a sense of responsibility and it is basically up to you to make the right decisions. Along with the pros there are always cons. Living in a college dorm is not always the best option. There are definitely setbacks involved in living away from home. A major disadvantage is that college life can be very distracting. There are always going to be parties and other fun things going on which can easy take your mind away from that assignment you have due in the morning. Living in a dorm can possibly jeopardize your GPA. (unknown, 2005, para. 3) A college dorm can also be a disadvantage if you have a horrible roommate. You no longer have the luxury of having your own space which can be very uncomfortable, or even cause another distraction. Living in a dorm room can also be very costly, even if you don’t use all that you are paying for. For example you may pay for a meal plan, but not as much food as you are paying for. (Bram, 2011, para. 9) Although I would definitely choose living in a dorm versus staying at home, there is also a plus to staying under your parent’s roof. The number one advantage of staying at home, in my opinion, is that you have the opportunity to save extraordinary amounts of money. You don’t have to worry about the cost of the dorm, food or any other expenses and you could also get a job. Going away to college is very expensive, so staying at home just a little while longer definitely won’t hurt you or your parents’ pockets. With that being said, we can get a little too comfortable with not having to worry about things financially which can keep us wanting to stay at home longer. The longer you stay at home, the harder it will be to leave later, which I find to be a major con. If for some reason staying at home for a longer time becomes the only option for you, at least you will always be focused. Not being around your peers constantly can absolutely keep you focused, not to mention your parents who will consistently be on your back about keeping grades up. Staying at home is a major advantage when it comes to doing well. Sometimes you have to really list out the positive and negative things about a particular subject to find what the best option for you would be. When it comes to living in a dorm you have freedom and gain experience, but it can be costly. When it comes to living at home you will be more likely to perform better in school, but you will have to abide by your parents rules even as an adult. I looked at all of the pros and cons of each, and still believe that living in a college dorm is a better option, not only for the experience, but because it helps to better prepare you for the future.

Personal Essay

The negative is so easy to dwell on for most people, but here's what I remember err most from the situations that Eve been put through because of my mom's habit of fleeing. I remember going to work with my dad, so that we could both make what little money we could to put food on the table. Remember the good laughs we had when we would be able to get a frozen pizza, or a gallon of milk and eat like kings. I remember being strong. I know that when I'm in a place of need, my father would kill to make it better, and although we ere struggling to afford everyday needs, I knew that if kept a smile, my dad would keep one too.Through learning that had to do everything that I could in order to keep my mind away from the negative as well as keep my body moving to support me and m y dad, tried my very best in school. There were times when I couldn't make it through a day b cause Of pure exhaustion but I had to keep moving in order to strengthen the bonds of not only me and my dad, but all of my friends and teachers that supported me through this rough attach in my life.My family means everything to me, and those values run deeper than anything g know. Never did turn my back on someone just because they made a mistake. This was the last time my mom ever left me, and she has come back since and has done every hinge to work with me to strengthen our con injection again. She didn't need to do any of this. She has left and came back quite a few times through my life, and although this was the w resort, would not turn my back on family.No matter how devastated I was during the incident, I love, I quickly let my mother back into my life, and do not regret that by any means. TomorroWs a new day in life. When the sun comes out, I know that its time t 0 work. I have found true meaning to forgive and forget, and make the best of whatever RL am given. Fight and strive for a better life, and if everything goes well, I'll become a Bette r man. A man who is not dragged down by anything, big or small, but still has the heart and dedication to work hard and never stagger my beliefs or values. Personal Essay Personal Responsibility Essay Terriers Howard Gender September 12. 2013 Kate Though Furthering your education can be a encouraging and discouraging decision; really when you have everyday life situations and experiences. Today's average adult is working, taking care of children, and also dealing with unexpected life events and with all those things going on they continue to strive for success. Continuing education on top of all those responsibilities can add great stress, but It can be accomplished.Myself has seen my mother raise children, work, and continue education. Her advice to me was to accomplish success in life with goal settings, vision, and mental preparation. Collegial (2004-2007), â€Å"Goal setting is the process of deciding on something you want, planning how to get it, and then working towards the objective†. The way to attain long term goals Is to to set short term goals first, which are more attainable In smaller steps.Short term goals are Like stepping stones they are designed In smaller moderation to obtain the bigger picture, which is to accomplish the long term goal, which will lead to greater success. A person can set to achieve a short term goal within a short period of time from one day until one week, or even six months whether than a long term goal which can take years. You can see short term progression much greater than long term every time you accomplish a short term goal, a pat on the back Is in demand, and means that you are one step closer to your long term goal.The funny thing about goal setting Is that you should always set long term goals first to give yourself a window, and to place goals in order of importance. You should always set long and short term meaningful goals Goal eating also involves maintaining specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time targeted goals to become attainable. Discouragement will come along, but time management and goal setting will give you an outlook on your lives plan. Life is a l esson within Itself you have to start somewhere to end up somewhere.Vision meaning the act or power of anticipating that which will or may come. Vision Is another technique required to become successful at furthering your education. Vision is an outlook that one has for themselves to see the future a pictures of Seibel future based plans which can be perceived mentally during dreams or life images. Vision is needed to stay focused and on track to become successful, and also the foundation for success, one must have vision to know there place In life or what attain the perceived images and dreams.Vision is also needed to remain determined when life's unexpected events arouse you can always go into your subconscious thoughts and remember your vision you have for yourself to continue your successful journey. Mental preparation is another technique helpful and needed to have a successful education experience. Mental preparation is very important for an adult who is continuing education, working , being a parent, and a spouse to help keep ones sanity and to accomplish having academic needs met.Mental preparation can help one cope better with stress, the ability to separate, but not completely forget about life stresses. Practicing on how to focus on keeping what is important together at that present time. To prepare yourself for furthering education you have to put yourself on the top of list as number one proper rest, exercise, good eating habits re needed to stay healthy and have adequate mental awareness and energy to deal with the extra meal on your plate.Good study habits and ample study time is needed to be successful in your furthering education, completing assignments early not waiting until the last minute to turn them in, which can lead to a major stresses. You have to make scheduled school days less stressful plan other activities on other day if possible, doing so will enhance your education, this will give you confidence, control, and mental energy in doing such strategies will lead to better education experience.Personal responsibility is being accountable for your own decisions and actions, and having self respect for yourself and others to become successful. Having to maintain personal life, being in the work force, and continuing education can all be a bit much, but is attainable with determination, patience , support, and focus to become successful. All one needs is to have a vision of lives path, set goals to attain the vision â€Å"road blocks don't mean failure, repeating goals make it stick† (The Numerous foundation, 1995-2013). Also mental preparation to make the furthering education experience much easier.

Siege of Fort Erie in the War of 1812

Siege of Fort Erie in the War of 1812 Siege of Fort Erie- Conflict Dates: The Siege of Fort Erie was conducted August 4 to September 21, 1814, during the War of 1812 (1812-1815).   Armies Commanders: British Lieutenant General Gordon Drummondapprox. 3,000 men United States Major General Jacob BrownBrigadier General Edmund Gainesapprox. 2,500 men Siege of Fort Erie - Background: With the beginning of the War of 1812, the US Army commenced operations along the Niagara frontier with Canada.   The initial attempt to mount an invasion failed when Major Generals Isaac Brock and Roger H. Sheaffe turned back Major General Stephen van Rensselaer at the Battle of Queenston Heights on October 13, 1812.   The following May, American forces successfully attacked Fort George and gained a foothold on the west bank of the Niagara River.   Unable to capitalize on this victory, and suffering setbacks at Stoney Creek and Beaver Dams, they abandoned the fort and withdrew in December.   Command changes in 1814 saw Major General Jacob Brown assume oversight of the Niagara frontier.          Aided by Brigadier General Winfield Scott, who had relentless drilled the American army over the previous months, Brown crossed the Niagara on July 3 and quickly captured Fort Erie from Major Thomas Buck.   Turning north, Scott defeated the British two days later the Battle of Chippawa.   Pushing ahead, the two sides clashed again on July 25 at the Battle of Lundys Lane.   A bloody stalemate, the fighting saw both Brown and Scott wounded.   As a result, command of the army devolved to  Brigadier General Eleazer Ripley.   Outnumbered, Ripley withdrew south to Fort Erie and initially desired to retreat across the river.   Ordering Ripley to hold the post, a wounded Brown dispatched  Brigadier General Edmund P. Gaines to take command. Siege of Fort Erie - Preparations: Assuming a defensive position at Fort Erie, American forces worked to improve its fortifications.   As the fort was too small to hold Gaines command, an earthen wall was extended south from the fort to Snake Hill where an artillery battery was emplaced.   To the north, a wall was built from the northeast bastion to the shore of Lake Erie.   This new line was anchored by a gun emplacement dubbed the Douglass Battery for its commander Lieutenant David Douglass.   To make the earthworks more difficult to breach, abatis were mounted along their front.   Improvements, such as the construction of block houses, continued throughout the siege. Siege of Fort Erie - Preliminaries: Moving south, Lieutenant General Gordon Drummond reached the vicinity of Fort Erie in early August.   Possessing around 3,000 men, he dispatched a raiding force across the river on August 3 with the intention of capturing or destroying American supplies.   This effort was blocked and repulsed by a detachment of the 1st US Rifle Regiment led by Major Lodowick Morgan.   Moving into camp, Drummond commenced building artillery emplacements to bombard the fort.   On August 12, British sailors mounted a surprise small boat attack and captured the American schooners USS Ohio and USS Somers, the latter being a veteran of the Battle of Lake Erie.   The next day, Drummond commenced his bombardment of Fort Erie.   Though he possessed a few heavy guns, his batteries were sited too far from the forts walls and their fire proved ineffective. Siege of Fort Erie - Drummond Attacks: Despite the failure of his guns to penetrate Fort Eries walls, Drummond moved forward with planning an assault for the night of August 15/16.   This called for Lieutenant Colonel Victor Fischer to strike Snake Hill with 1,300 men and Colonel Hercules Scott to assault the Douglass Battery with around 700.   After these columns moved forward and drew the defenders to the northern and southern ends of the defenses, Lieutenant Colonel William Drummond would advance 360 men against the American center with the goal of taking the original part of the fort.   Though the senior Drummond hoped to achieve surprise, Gaines was quickly alerted to the impending attack as the Americans could see his troops preparing and moving during the day. Moving against Snake Hill that night, Fischers men were spotted by an American picket who sounded the alert.   Charging forward, his men repeatedly attacked the area around Snake Hill.   Each time they were thrown back by Ripleys men and the battery which was commanded by Captain Nathaniel Towson.   Scotts attack in the north met a similar fate.   Though hiding in a ravine for much of the day, his men were seen as they approached and came under heavy artillery and musket fire.   Only in the center did the British have any degree of success.   Approaching stealthily, William Drummonds men overwhelmed the defenders in the forts northeast bastion.   An intense fight erupted which only ended when a magazine in the bastion exploded killing many of the attackers.    Siege of Fort Erie - Stalemate: Having been bloodily repulsed and having lost nearly a third of his command in the assault, Drummond resumed the siege of the fort.   As August progressed, his army was reinforced by the  6th and 82nd Regiments of Foot which had seen service with the Duke of Wellington during the Napoleonic Wars.   On the 29th, a lucky shot hit and wounded Gaines.   Departing the fort, command shifted to the less resolute Ripley.   Concerned about Ripley holding the post, Brown returned to the fort despite having not fully recovered from his injuries.   Taking an aggressive posture, Brown dispatched a force to attack Battery No. 2 in the British lines on September 4.   Striking Drummonds men, the fighting lasted around six hours until rain brought it to a halt. Thirteen days later, Brown again sortied from the fort as the British had constructed a battery (No. 3) that endangered the American defenses.   Capturing that battery and Battery No. 2, the Americans were finally compelled to withdraw by Drummonds reserves.   While the batteries were not destroyed, several of the British guns were spiked.   Though largely successful, the American attack proved unnecessary as Drummond had already resolved to break off the siege.   Informing his superior, Lieutenant General Sir George Prevost, of his intentions, he justified his actions by citing a lack of men and equipment as well as the poor weather.   On the night of September 21, the British departed and moved north to establish a defensive line behind the Chippawa River. Siege of Fort Erie - Aftermath: The Siege of Fort Erie saw Drummond sustain 283 killed, 508 wounded, 748 captured, and 12 missing while the American garrison incurred 213 killed, 565 wounded, 240 captured, and 57 missing.   Further reinforcing his command, Brown contemplated offensive action against the new British position.   This was soon precluded by the launching of the 112-gun ship of the line HMS St. Lawrence which gave naval dominance on Lake Ontario to the British.   As it would be difficult to shift supplies to the Niagara front without control of the lake, Brown dispersed his men to defensive positions.   On November 5, Major General George Izard, who was commanding at Fort Erie, ordered the fort destroyed and withdrew his men into winter quarters in New York.   Selected Sources Siege of Fort Erie, War of 1812Niagara Parks: Old Fort ErieHistoryNet: A Bloody Stalemate at Fort Erie