Inside Job Documentary Film Essay

The ‘Inside Job’ film (documentary film) draws parallel views to the referenced text â€Å"Impact on Accounting† of this course coupled with the associated research executed during the past weeks with respect to understanding the cause of the financial crisis. The documentary film zeros in on the contributory factors of the financial crisis such as falling interest rates, securitization of home mortgages and credit default swaps (derivatives). Other stunning contributory factors expressed in the documentary film were greed in addition to the deregulation and an unsupervised financial industry by the Federal government. Snyder (2011) reported that, â€Å"There have been several deregulations in the financial and housing markets over the past 30 years. Some of these include The Depository Institutions Deregulation and Monetary Control Act, the Federal Home Loan Bank Board establishing adjustable mortgages, the 1982 Garn-St Germain Depository Institutions Act establishing a secondary mortgage market, the repeal of the Glass-Stegall Act allowing commercial and investment banks to merge, and the 2004 SECs deregulation of investment banks, allowing investment banks to increase their leverage ratio from 12:1 to 30:1.† (pages 1-16) After researching the cause of the financial crisis, though seemingly insignificant to some, one of the fastening screws that assisted in the great fall with respect to the financial industry was falling interest rates. During the early 2000s the United States economy began to slow down and in an effort to rejuvenate this downward condition the Federal Reserve introduced a stimulation project to cut interest rates to induce customer spending. Investors took advantage of this stimulus exercise as the return on mortgage backed securities was attractive and as a result there was a boost and desire to purchase such securities. Consequently, lending  institutions became very excited as the demand for mortgage backed securities increased and thus the quest began to write more mortgages. Hence, the qualifying standards for loan approvals were done away with allowing a prospective home owner getting approval with ‘zero-down’. The introduction of no payment down increased the likelihood of failure to pay by borrowers and this default risk thereof was disregarded. Another supporting aspect of the documentary film with respect to the cause of the financial crisis was securitization. Historically during the safe age, a home mortgage was a loan contract between the borrower and financial institution which was supported by tangible property used as collateral. Such loans would be held until the full loan obligation has been satisfied in the long term. Conversely to the days of old, financial institutions sought new innovative means to generate income and came up with securitization of home mortgages. In this sense, during the 1990’s, home mortgages were not held to maturity but instead the high risk home mortgages were, bundled, repackaged and resold creating mortgage backed securities whereby income is received when homeowners satisfied their home mortgage obligation. Despondently, when borrowers defaulted on their home mortgages, investors suffered dearly as losses were realized, consequently, financial institutions collapsed and unemployment rose above its usual average rate. Other research has concluded that derivatives also played a chief role in the financial crisis. Derivatives are financial contracts between two parties of which the value can derived with not affiliation to the good or service. For example, a buyer can purchase an option agreement to buy a good or service in the future at an agreed price within a specified time frame. Within the given period the buyer may exercise the right to purchase or chose not to upon weighing the benefits of the option contract with the current market conditions. One type of derivatives that aided in the financial crisis was credit default swaps (CDS) which allowed investors to participate in naked CDS purchases without having legal ownership of the insured property. CDS is an innovative and prevalent derivative which is similar to an insurance contract that permits investors to transfer risk to other parties who are more qualified and willing to bear it, thus making it very attractive risk mitigation tool. CDS became extremely popular and experienced an unprecedented demand up to the latter part of 2007. However, since the derivatives market was not regulated companies such as AIG which sold billions of swaps without collateral or reserves to satisfy potential losses. According to Hobbs (2011), at the end of 2007 AIG credit debt obligation totaled $562 billion which was shockingly ironic that an insurance company would fail to hedge such substantial risk. Charles Ferguson’s award winning documentary film ‘Inside Job’ narrated by Matt Damon surveyed the deregulation of the financial industry and explored how the lack of good ethical banking practices assisted in creating the financial crisis. This jaw dropping documentary in its fearless interviews and prying identified greed and deregulation by the Federal government as principle causes of the financial crisis. At the twilight of 1981 the Ronal Regan administration made the deregulation of the financial industry top priority and the highest order of business in an effort to restore economic prosperity. Froese (2011) stated that, â€Å"The campaign trend of deregulation was followed through by the Bill Clinton and George Bush administration team.† (p. 59-75). According to Maxwell (2011), â€Å"The documentary film sets out to prove the idea by first pointing to the 1980s, when deregulation of the financial industry in the US allowed banks and loan companies to begin taking bigger risks with depositors’ money.† (p.16) The documentary film exposed the recycling of top bank executives being integrated into key government positions even after having full knowledge of misconduct and unethical behavior driven by greed. The greed for lavish lifestyle such as having six airplanes, helicopters, yachts, beachfront homes and penthouses was evident in the documentary film. Apparently, the more money top bankers earned the more they seem to want. The root of this greed was driven by huge compensation and hefty bonuses. According to Ferguson (2010), Richard Fuld the CEO of Lehman Brothers actually was hardly ever seen on the trading floor as he went out of his way to avoid contact with other employees even to the extent of extent of installing a personal elevator that took him to his office undetected. These chief top guns even went to the extent to cheat the government of taxes by understating their  income. Sterngold (2011) reported that, â€Å" Oliver Budde, a former lawyer for the financial services firm Lehman Brothers, has charged that the bankrupt company’s former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Richard S. Fuld lied to Congress when stating the amount of his salary and other compensation from 2000-2007. Budde, whose duties included preparing Lehman’s financial statements on executive salaries, says that Fuld understated the amount of his earnings by hundreds of millions of dollars.† (p, 56-59). Under the Regan administration CEO of the treasury, ML Donald deregulated the Savings and Loans which created a platform for unsafe investments by allowing hundreds of financially dead institutions to continue to operate while making more risky loans. Within 10 years hundreds of Savings and Loans companies became insolvent which resulted in 124 billion dollars of tax payers’ money. Greenspan supported Charles Keating’s business plans verifying that they were sound, proficient and without risk. It was later discovered that Keating who owned one of the Savings and Loans companies in California, used investors’ money to support his personal company and eventually went to prison as a result. While on the other hand, Greenspan was promoted appointed as president of the Federal Reserve by Ronald Ragan and was reappointed by Clinton and Bush administration to police the big bucks. It was also alleged that Greenspan received a kickback of 40,000 for validating Keating’s report Keating afloat in the industry. Deregulation continued under the Clinton administration congress overturned the Glass-Steagall Act by passing the Gramm-Leach Bliley Act which facilitated the Citigroup merger. Further, despite the cries to regulate the derivatives industry, Alan Greenspan in addition to other congressmen brought about the Commodity Futures Modernization Act banning all regulation in the derivatives market. Other new theories that developed from the documentary film were economists, credit rating agencies and top executives have all contributed to the financial crisis. It was unthinkable that reputable economists failed miserably to disclose any conflict of interest regarding their economic research report concerning economic trend. According to Ferguson (2010), economist Frederic Mishkin stated in his economic research report that  Iceland’s economy had already adjusted to financial liberalization and that while prudential regulation and supervision was quite strong, however, the banking industry in Iceland exploded shortly after the report. Frederic was paid $124,000 by the Iceland government to write the report even though the report proved to be very wrong. Another economist, Robert Glenn Hubbard former head of President Bush council of economic advisors, when asked whether there is and conflict of interest of economists he avoided the question and stated that most economist are not wealthy people. The documentary exposed him for having an annual salary of $150,000 as a board member of Met Life and that he formally served on the board of Capmark Financial Corporation, a mortgage institution that went bankrupt during the bubble. The documentary film brought the curtains down on credit rating agencies as it provided undeniable evidence of their involvement in the financial crisis . The three credit agencies namely, Standard & Poor, Moody’s, and Fitch misrepresented the credit rating of companies such as Lehman Brother, Merrill Lynch, AIG and Bear Sterns as they were all given credit rating of AA and above just weeks prior to becoming bankrupt. Questions were put to the governor of the Federal Reserve, Frederic Mishkin whether he was aware of excellent credit ratings and as in the past he danced around the question without providing clear answer. In 2008 Frederic Mishkin resigned in the height of the economic crisis and said that this coward move was owed to him reviewing some university book. Investors depend heavily on security rating for decision making. Clearly if a security has been classified as AAA and AA ratings, they appear to be as safe as government bonds. Instead, investors were deceived into investing in insolvent companies as a result of the ratings provided thereof. Continuing, top executives were also woven in the fabric of the financial crisis whereby top Chief Executive Officers walked away with top dollars. It is said that follow the money to solve the crime. The documentary film listed top guns such as Lehman Brothers CEO, Richard Fuld who reaped in 485 million, AIG’s CEO went smiling with earnings of 315 million and Merrill Lynch raked in 161 million of severance bonus. Other culprits named were Bear Sterns CEO and especially Goldman Sachs top executives. Apparently, these top executives had much knowledge of their falling companies and cooked the books so that investors would believe otherwise. What come out of the documentary film was that executives were rewarded for selling subprime mortgage investments as if it was top priority. Below are exhibits A and B and key players in the financial crisis: Exhibit A Major Players identifies in Week 2 Exhibit B Major Players in Inside Job Film 1. Homeowners 2. Financial / lending institutions 3. Wall Street 4. Federal Government 5. Securities Exchange Commission 1. Homeowners 2. Financial / lending institutions 3. Wall Street 4. Federal Government 5. Securities Exchange Commission 6. Economist 7. Credit Rating Agencies 8. Top Executives The new players pulled from the documentary film are economists, credit agencies and top banking executives. Economists were apparently paid handsomely to produce favorable reports of which most did not disclose their connected conflict of interest. Credit rating agencies also provided falsified rating to dying institutions and as a result investors were misinformed and consequently realized losses which could have been prevented. Lastly top banking officials were recycled throughout the government and other top ranking banks. They were driven by greed and  received compensation of up to 485 million dollars. Bringing it all together, I strongly believe that they were all in it together with the object to rape the economy of its finances and so they did successfully without being prosecuted. APA Format References Global Economic Crisis Resource Center (2010). Global economic crisis: Impact on accounting. Mason, OH: South-Western Cengage Learning Snyder, T. (2011). How did deregulation and financial innovations impact housing, wealth, and output?. Journal Of Finance & Accountancy, Hobbs, J. (2011). Financial Derivatives, the Mismanagement of Risk and the Case of AIG. CPCU Ejournal, 1-8. Ferguson, C. (Director) & Marrs, A. (Producer). (2010) Inside Job [Motion Picture]. United States: Sony Picture Classics Froese, R. (2011). THE LIMITS OF INSIDE JOB: CRISIS, IDEOLOGY, AND THE BURDEN OF CAPITALISM. Studies In Political Economy: A Socialist Review, (88), 59-75. Sterngold, J. (2010). Who Cares About Another $200 Million?. Bloomberg Businessweek, (4177), 56-59. Maxwell, C. (2011). Inside the crash. Director (00123242), 65(4), 16.

High School Essay

I like to believe that everyone has their own goals and dreams they would like to accomplish. Every person’s dreams and goal differ from one another. My name is Gwendolyn Pavon, and I too, have goals and dreams that I hope to accomplish. Having a future and a good career is something I have always dreamed about. My current academic goals are to stay in school. Being in school is my main priority, and focusing on my schoolwork is important to me. I have the opportunity to be in school and receive financial help and I won’t let this opportunity pass by. I realize how hard things are getting in the real word. Careers are becoming harder to find and to keep, therefore I’m willing to get an education to get a good career. I never really had people to motivate me to stay in school until my senior year in high school. I opened up to my English teacher about a couple things, and she made me realize a lot. I remember being younger and my father telling me to say in school, but after he left I didn’t have much motivation. My English teacher always pushed me into doing my work and staying in school. It felt nice knowing she cared about me getting an education. She helped me with scholarship applications, with getting everything done to get into college and helped me out with anything I needed. College isn’t as easy as high school, but I’m honestly willing to do anything to get a degree and hopefully become a nurse one day. All the work, and waking up early will be worth it in the future. Soon I will have to get a job and save money for my own car. I’m not so sure if having a job and being in school will be so easy, but if it gets tough I will not give up. I have understood that there will be complicated times in life, but the one thing I will never do is give up. I don’t have much people to push me into doing what I want, but I push and motivate myself. I want the best things in the world, and having the best things means working hard to get them. I’m not the smartest person out there, but I know that I’m a pretty bright person. Although being in school isn’t something I like so much, I have decided to continue going. My weaknesses as a learner outweigh my strengths. I can get very distracted easily and I have trouble staying focused on a topic. I have to constantly remind myself to get back on topic. Getting  distracted interferes with my learning, but I work at it every day to try to focus on my work. The good thing is that if something really interests me, I give it my full attention. Being in school and sitting through fifty minute classes isn’t something I always enjoy but I do have days where I enjoy the classes. Focusing on my school work will be a little complicated for me, but I’m willing to put in all my effort to continue my education. Getting an education, being successful, and accomplishing my goals and dreams are really important to me. I will prove to people that I will be successful and continue getting an education.

Retribution for Slaves Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Retribution for Slaves - Essay Example Nonetheless, the discussion in this paper focuses on retributions for the descendants of historic slavery, since it is held and debated more frequently. Historic slaves in the U.S. performed instinctive labor with no pay, which is against human rights. They were, therefore, at liberty to reparation and, since they are deceased, the money must go to their offspring. The idea does not stop to be correct in due course—legitimacy and justice do not terminating dates. The most significant idea is to ascertain whether the principle of retribution is right. A retribution court case against the United States treasury department was discharged in 1915, but later in 1920s reparation was made a section of Black Nationalist program by Marcus Garvey. The current discussion over retribution was intensified by Randall Robinson’s publication called â€Å"The Debt.† According to Robinson (17), the worth of slave labor for more than 246 years of American historic slavery is more t han trillions of dollars. He illustrated that slaves historic slaves were responsible for the picking and processing of cotton that fueled trade and industry in the United States. Thus, there is the need for the state to establish autonomous community trust kitties that could dispense money into the communities of slave descendants to fund black-owned industries and finance education programs in these regions. Various professionals such as Professor Charles Ogletree of Harvard Law School and various lawyers joined hands to form the Reparations Coordinating Committee. The committee’s mandate has been to sue the U.S. firms that supposedly gained from slavery in the 19th century. Many opponents of slave retributions argue that the entire populations of past slaves are deceased and that their descendants are not warranted to get reparations for the loss of their ancestors. This is somewhat different compared to the U.S. administration’s compensations of living Japanese Ame ricans as a result of detention during the WW II. Since these victims were compensated for their losses, the descendants of historic slaves are warranted to demand reparation from the government. There is no need to quantify the number of individuals that suffered, since all suffered similar gross humiliation of being deprived of their freedom. Assertions regarding the alleged gains of slavery and the slave trade for the victims are provisional and insulting, laid down against the great distress the descendants of African-American experienced. Besides being a territory of great opportunity, the U.S. continued to repress people of African-American origin for many years after the official end to slavery. Even in the current American society, African-American constitutes the largest population of poor social group. According to Winbush (213), retributions to the descendants of slavery through financial support will not to specific individuals, therefore; eradicating the practical probl ems of recognizing claimants. Slavery along with several years of oppression and prejudice after the Civil War directly injured the descendants of African-Americans still alive today. It is well understood that U.S. administration is a continuing institution that is liable for its deeds, whether or not people were there at the instance of the acts in question. Thus, whereas financial support is vital, the demand for reparation will promote the process of

Backup and Disaster Recovery Plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Backup and Disaster Recovery Plan - Essay Example To emphasis this recovery plans need to be tested on a regular basis with the risk analysis workshops. The answer to this question depends on different variables like the regulatory requirements, possibility of natural disasters, insurance premiums and above all the cost of the whole process. The distance of the intended business continuity site is to be determined and setup taking into consideration the time factor and how soon you would need it operational. The requirements subject to distance and data currency, integrity of data and the affordable loss needs to be closely looked into. Replicating data at a distance is essential for effectiveness wherein synchronous replication could be used for short distances and asynchronous techniques are required for longer distances which would guarantee data integrity. The fact that increased dependency on information technology based on information processing is to be categorized and identified based on the critical nature of the process. The business continuity management team which is the backbone of the plan coordinates between the various processes to move into action the continuity plan in case of any disaster. It is essential to ensure that the plan is constantly updated with the ongoing changes to the resources along with the management team which is responsible for this task. Every quarterly the Business Continuity Management Team has to make sure that the plan is reviewed and updated on a regular basis to ensure effectiveness and productivity. Annually the plan is overhauled and revised if necessary and the changes are reported to the respective coordinators and authorized personnel. Testing of the complete plan on regular basis is essential for it to be effective at any given point of time. Secondary tests can be carried out on individual processes while

Choose a good topic for this paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Choose a good topic for this paper - Essay Example Quite rightly so, in order to find out how something is morally right or wrong, the need is to know where the line has to be drawn because then only can the distinctions be made between the right and wrong steps. If actions and undertakings bring in a positive aspect to the fore where there is no problem for the people concerned with it, then there is understanding available. This optimism shall suggest for further usage of ethics in a quantifiable manner. However, it is important to know that the flip side is equally fatal. The unethical means are also significant to draw and gain something from (Shafer-Landau, 2012). What this will do is to inform everyone how things shall shape up and how sanity needs to be restored. As a parent, this seems like a difficult process all along, yet the basis for comprehension is there for one and all to see. This oxymoron is apparent because ethics seem to differ from person to person. There are some individuals who believe that ethics is all about doing ‘good’ for one’s own self but not for others. This is a flawed mindset which has drastic results in the end, and more so for the societal regimes. Ethics when taught to the young ones should always be in such a manner that there are more positive undertakings for everyone irrespective of his position within the society. It needs to comprise of the collective goodwill of the society to bring forward seriously positive results. Essentially speaking and focused more towards the junior-high age youngsters, teaching ethics to them is a difficult process as they might have readymade alternatives for them. With so much negativity being highlighted by the media and the different domains of the society, the children can only be confused rather than getting corrected. In the end, it would be justifiable to say that there is a dire need on the part of the parents and teachers to enact ways and means to bring correction which is long-lasting and has a positive

Development of Chinas legal system and its difficulties and challenges Essay

Development of Chinas legal system and its difficulties and challenges - Essay Example These changes are occurring because of the fact that in order to strengthen the rule of law it is foremost necessary to place emphasis on a large number of elements, both from inside and outside of the country. Also the structure of the domestic law of the country is facing several transformations in the face of growing international trade and globalization. The legal systemis undergoing the most radical changes since their inclusion within the World Trade Organization (WTO). The country has largely been dependent on ideological reasoning and facts. But recently policy makers have suggested that in order to cope with international standards of respectable community, the country must follow specified globally accepted norms and regulations, irrespective of the fact that these norms and regulations are generated by the United Nations Human Rights Conservation or by the WTO (Bruun & Jacobsen, 2000, p. 251). Accordingly the country’s law and legal system have had to be changed and modified. The Republic of China is now initiating these changes or modifications with the most radical occurring in the areas of economic reform and changes in the nature of the administration process. This paper will attempt to evaluate all of these developments and will mark the difficulties or the challenges that china has been facing as a direct result (Alexandroff, Ostry and Rafael Gomez, 2003, p. 154). Philosophy: The Asian legal system appears to be different in many respects from the legal systems of therest of the world. Major reasons for this include spiritual variations and differences in intellectual thought. Religion plays little part in Chinese law-making but perhaps the most influential form of thought is Confucianism (Glenn 2007, pp. 318-319). The core of Confucianism is Humanism and is based on various levels of honesty. According to Confucian thought, with the use of the logic of humanity one can examine the world in the simplest possible manner. An ethical philosophy that is to be practiced by all the members of this society is the primary foundation and function of this thought. For almost a thousand years the legal system of China was dominated by Confucianism. The principles of Confucian ideology were the main driving force behind the evolution of the ancient legal system. Not only that, it also helped in developing the legalism, traditions, and moral aspects of life for the an cient Chinese people. This ideology mainly focused on astrict governmental hierarchy. Along with this the ideology marked its view regarding the fact that people need to internalize all the granted rules and norms and just take appropriate or necessary actions. According to this view, it has been argued that the law should be preserved only for those who try to do something out of pure self-interest at the expense of the interests of society as a whole. Hence, the law of the country has been modified to include harsh punishments with the aim of achievingand maintaining an appropriate social order withmaximum social welfare. In this regard China’s legal systemdiffers significantly from that of the West

Whether text-speak (or texting language), as used in instant messaging Essay - 1

Whether text-speak (or texting language), as used in instant messaging and SMS messaging, is contributing to language decline or decay - Essay Example ed children to acquire a better literary understanding (Crystal) but might also be used to mask dyslexia, incorrect spelling or simply laziness to write rather than optimizing the text per se. The ultra conciseness of the words tailored for the short message service and instant messaging on the internet chats has taken the shape of a new English dialect. The massive increase in SMS has boosted up the mobile company earnings significantly. Britain, in the English speaking world is responsible for amounting up to 6 billion text messages a month (Huang) while Pakistan has taken one of the top positions after Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia for sending the most short text messages in the world adding up to 151 billion in the year 2009 alone and moving up to the third highest SMS sender in the year 2010 (Malik). This puts a new angle to the point of views debating the influence of IM and SMS on the literature and language. A developing country like Pakistan that has English as its second official language and to be used mostly in the higher education, hence being a notable part of the English speaking world, will be affected in a unique way by the way of SMS. The largely less educated population or atleast not as much educated and affluent in the English language have rather learned the language by the use of quick SMS messaging. The extremely low rates and encouraging services by the service providers have further ensured that the SMS trends leap ahead in a cut throat competition (Malik). It might be noted that the phonetic, orthographic and optimized approach of the SMS language makes it easy for even the relatively uneducated individuals to learn or process the English language (Chim). While this was not yet enough to be dealt with by a likely opponent of the SMS language, the new smart phones that come with the feature of predicting the next words and spell correction or auto completing ensure quick growth and ease of SMS (Chim). These features might be seen as

Law of Digital Evidence Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Law of Digital Evidence - Essay Example Additionally, computers are known to save some files irrespective of the user having deleted them or considered them eliminated from the device. Such observations allow for the complicating the entire process of promoting a search warrant on these devices. It further suggests that computer devices may not be classified along the regards or presentation of general warrants. It also implies that the interest of attributing computer searches to a different set of warrants acknowledges their unique qualities (Jarrett and Bailie, 100-114). Computers are general hubs of extremely personal information. They are considered to host information that defines individuals in a wholesome manner. They, further, have customized safety measures to allow for the protection of the contained information. Such attributes allow for the reflection of the personal nature of the information hosted or stored in these devices. Additionally, computers are utilized extensively in the expression of their users. Such is achieved via the extensive programs that are installed in these devices. The observations map these devices as rather unique to be subjected to the plain view of a search warrant (Jarrett and Bailie, 112). The decision over the approach that is considered to affect the respective computer devices remain advised by the nature of the information that aspires to be extracted. Apparently, search warrants are developed to in anticipation of the information to be established. Such observations regarding the particulars of these searches allows them to be regarded as rather exceptional from routine searches. The concern is further complicated by the elemental superiority associated to computers, especially on user security. Additionally, computers remain regarded as the best exemplification of personal space. The implication of these thoughts proposes the enforcement of a search warrant on these devices. However, the warrant should not be regarded or spelt under the

Leadership Talents of Jack Welch Essay Example for Free

Leadership Talents of Jack Welch Essay Jack Welch was a successful Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of General Electric Co. (GE) for twenty years (1981 – 2001). He was admired and feared for the â€Å"new vision† that was implemented at GE. Jacks talented strategies were based on how he saw the hierarchy layers of management, how he analyzed the 42 strategic business units, and how he implemented the culture of GE to have the feel and the passion that he had been striving for. These strategies received a lot of positive and negative attention and as a result the company’s value increased by 4,000% during his tenure at GE. Jack Welch was born John Francis Welch, Jr. on November 19, 1935. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemical engineering from the University of Massachusetts in 1957. Then he went on to earn a M.S. and Ph.D. in chemical engineering from the University of Illinois in 1960. He was introduced to Carolyn Osburn through a mutual friend, and then approximately six months later they were engaged. By November, 1959 they married two days after Welch’s 24th birthday. In 1960, Dr. Dan Fox offered Welch a chemical engineering position to work on a new project on a new thermoplastic called polyphenylene oxide (PPO) at GE. PPO was described to withstand high temperatures, which could replace hot water copper piping and stainless-steel medical instruments. Welch realized after his first year at GE that he disliked GE’s bureaucracy, which nearly drove him to leave based on the standard predetermined $1,000 raise he received in 1961. He was fed up and walked up to his boss Burt Coplan and quit. Coplan’s boss, Reuben Gutoff (Reg) called Welch and offered to meet for dinner. Gutoff took Carolyn and Jack out for dinner and promised a bigger raise, more responsibility, and would keep the bureaucracy out of his way. In addition, Gutoff added another $2,000 raise on top of the $1,000 raise Coplan already given him, which showed Welch he was serious about his promise. In 1972, Jack was named the company’s youngest Vice President then was elected Vice Chairman in 1979, then was elected the eighth chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in 1981. Jack held this position until he retired in 2001. During his twenty year term as CEO Jacks reputation In 1999, Forbes magazine named him â€Å"Manager of the Century† and the Financial Times named him one of the three most admired business leaders in the world today (General Electric Company). During Jacks twenty year tenure at GE he was able to step outside of the box and change the way the game was played. (Business Pundit, 2008).

Fast Food Driven Society Essay Example for Free

Fast Food Driven Society Essay In a recent documentary film I’ve seen called, â€Å"Super-Size Me,† it was stated that in the past 20-25 years, obesity levels in America have doubled. Why you may wonder? Many factors contribute to the way we live in our society today, but the main reason for obesity levels being so high is the fast food industry and its effects on everyone it comes in contact with. Anyone who has ever had junk food in their life know its addicting features. Seeing it everywhere you go whether you are at a grocery store, fast food restaurant, or on TV doesn’t help stop the urges in anyone’s case. Fast food is convenient, cheap, and is what the average American family would choose to eat. Obesity is an ongoing problem in the United States today, and if it cannot be stopped, this problem could potentially be passed down from generation to generation. The reason America has allowed this to happen is because of the way society portrays how to live and eat in this world, how Americans have adapted in a way where they heavily rely on fast food for convenience purposes, and the individual’s lack of effort in living a healthy lifestyle. Every woman in America once in their lives has seen or bought a magazine. What do you see on the cover? A skinny, beautiful model or celebrity, and a tagline on how to lose more weight or how to eat healthier in order for you to look more like the picture. Everywhere you go society portrays a certain way woman should look that is acceptable in this world. I strongly believe that one of the reasons that obesity has struck America so negatively is because society has pushed the woman in this country over the edge on how they ‘should’ look. â€Å"For many women, compulsive eating and being fat have become one way to avoid being marketed or seen as the ideal woman: My fat says ‘screw you’ to all who want me to be the perfect mom, sweetheart, and maid. Take me for who I am, not for who I am supposed to be† (Orbach, pg. 452). This quote comes from the article, â€Å"Fat is a Feminist Issue,† and it heavily relates to why obesity is still an ongoing issue in the United States. Susie Orbach strongly explains how fat expresses a rebellion against how women feel powerless because of all of the pressure to look and even act a certain way. Society has even changed the way women should look over and over again throughout the years (pg. 452). This in my opinion puts more pressure on the women because they are constantly changing their image and even their body in order to fit in. This topic alone, has a huge impact on why a lot of people are overweight in the world. Now a days, people want to be what they want and not what society wants. Since society hasn’t given woman and everyone else a break on what they expect from them, obesity has increased and a rebellion on body image is its result. If society would stop stressing how to look and act, people might want to start to do things for themselves and not for the ‘betterment’ of society. In my experience, I can honestly say that being a women in society today is difficult. Yes I do eat what I want when I want, but I do watch my body image. Half of the reason is because it makes me feel better as a person when I look and eat healthy, but the other half is because I know society would qualify me as someone who would fit in. You could say that society has gotten to me, but I do feel great when I eat healthy and when I look healthy. In my nutrition class, I learned that junk food is very low in satiation value, this means that people don’t feel as full when eating them, which tends to lead to overeating. These two factors relate to why people choose to go to a fast food restaurant. Americans don’t realize the negative effects it has on their mind and body. Not only is that a factor, but the taste also plays a huge part too. A lot of great tasting foods are bad for you, which just happens to be the disappointing truth that many people disregard. All anyone wants is to find good food that is affordable in this world right? That is what makes fast food so convenient!! In the article, â€Å"Don’t Blame the Eater,† David Zinczenko makes a good point about fast food. â€Å"Lunch and dinner for me, was a daily choice between McDonald’s, Taco Bell, Kentucky Fried Chicken or Pizza Hut. Then as now, these were the only available options for an American kid to get an affordable meal† (pg. 391-392). Everything he stated is true for the average American family, why wouldn’t you stop at a fast food restaurant if you are tight on money and time. When I was a kid, sports was a big part of my life†¦but time and money was also tight in my family because my two younger sisters also played sports. We stopped for fast food whenever was convenient for us on and off the road. At the time, it was almost like I was being treated when we stopped for fast food. Little did I know the only reason we got fast food was because it was affordable and reliable. Even now to this day, it is hard for me not to stop at a fast food restaurant every once in a while. I don’t go as much as I used to, but it is still convenient and it always will be. Just like Zinczenko was saying, whether we like it or not, fast food surrounds us and lures us into its traps. We have the choice to escape it or embrace it. The individual has this decision alone. Society plays its parts in luring, but it is ultimately your own decision in the end. In the article, â€Å"Food as Thought: Resisting the Moralization of Eating,† Mary Maxfield heavily stresses how it is the individual’s ultimate decision on what to eat and how much of it to eat. I could not agree more with her article, even though society does its job in persuading, it is the individual who is left with the decision because it is their body. Maxfield states, â€Å". what a person eats [rarely] takes primacy over how they eat it†¦.. in essence, we can eat as we always have- which includes eating for emotional and social reasons and still survive or even thrive† (pg. 445). What she is saying is that no matter what social interactions stand in someone’s way, they are the ones who decide what and how much to eat. You must trust yourself, trust your body and meet your own needs (Maxfield, pg. 446). Personally, there are days where I know I need to cut down on the junk food and focus on drinking water and eating foods with nutritional value. That is because I have the motivation and drive to do so. Many Americans do not have this motivation and drive. This is what is increasing the obesity levels in America. People do not know what is too much, and do not know when to stop. So in return, they are putting themselves more at risk for the chronic diseases that obesity has to offer. In the end, the individual has the power to decide what is best for them. If everyone started to make healthy life decisions, obesity levels could slowly start to decrease, and the world could have a more restored environment. We need to start by educating our children about the smart and healthy life alternatives they can make and continue to educate their parents as well. In turn, we can decrease the many factors that have led our country to where it is today†¦. a fast food driven, obese and lazy society.

Online Banking Advantages and Disadvantages

Online Banking Advantages and Disadvantages Jump to: Advantages of Online Banking | Disadvantages of Online Banking | Types of Online Banking | Findings | SWOT Analysis of Online Banking | Banking Security Systems | Issues of Implementing Online Banking | Government Role in Online Banking | Recommendation | Conclusion OVERVIEW On ONLINE BANKING Information technology has become the platform of banking as a whole, especially of online banking. Though this is an entirely new term for out country, due to the intense competition its application is increasing rapidly. Now a day, it has become almost obligatory on the part of the banks to implement this. The online banking services that we are getting now are limited to some extent in most cases. But it is expected that in near future we are going to get the fullest service from online banking. We are also expecting that the influence of online banking will be greatly upbeat for both the clients and service providers. INTRODUCTION E-Banking is defined as the automated delivery of new and traditional banking products and services directly to customers through electronic and interactive communication channels. Online banking (Internet banking) is a term used for performing transactions, payments etc. over the internet through a banks secure website. This can be very useful, especially for banking outside bank hours (which tend to be very short) and banking from anywhere where internet access is available. In most cases a web browser such as Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox is utilized and any normal internet connection is suitable. It is an umbrella term for the process by which a customer may perform banking transactions electronically without visiting a brick-and-mortar institution. With the help of E-Banking customers can access their banks without having to be physically present at the bank branch. In Bangladesh the idea of online banking was conceived in 1996 but the commercial operation started in 2001. Banks use a variety of services for Online Banking such as PC banking, Home Banking, Electronic Banking or Internet Banking. These systems offer certain advantages over traditional banking methods. Advantages of Online Banking For Consumers: The privacy of customers. Online services are available for consumers 24 hours daily during the whole week. Customers might save time and efforts of doing their finance transactions. It will be easy for them to view all information they need clearly and simply. Searching of any branch of a bank will be accessibly by online users. For Banks: One way of attracting more customers is to use their services. Increasing the banks reputation around the world is well known by many people. It doesnt need to employ lots of suffer or bankers to deal with customers directly. Banks can deal simply with their branches all over the world with one network. Disadvantages of Online Banking For consumers Some people feel uncomfortable to provide their passwords or any kind of information about their funds over the internet. Some websites might be difficult for consumers for the first time to check their finance. It is possible for banks to update their websites, which needs from consumers to type in again their data. It is necessary to have knowledge and skills on using the Internet. For Banks Banks may require big amount of money to establish a website with attractive features. They may lose their information if the network is damaged with other branches. Hacking and viruses will cause problems for online banking, which could brake and damage the information. Types of online banking The common assumption is that Internet banking is the only method of online banking. However, this is not strictly the case, as several types of services are currently available: PC Banking: The forerunner to Internet banking has been around since the late 1980s and is still widely used today. Individual banks provide software which is loaded on to an SMEs office computer. The SME can then access their bank account via a modem and telephone link to the bank. Access is not necessarily via the Internet. Internet Banking: Using a Web browser, a user can access their account, once the banks application server has validated the users identity. Digital TV Banking: Using the standard digital reception equipment (set top box and remote control); users can access their bank account. Abbey National and HSBC services are available via digital TV providers. One of its main selling points is that no account details are transmitted via the World Wide Web. This service is absent in our country. Telephone (Mobile) Banking: It includes the banking through using the Telephone operator whether public or private with wire or wireless. Its a form of e-banking that helps the household who have no facility to access Internet and computer. Now phone and online banking in Bangladesh only offer services such as balance check and request for statement. But the mobile banking allows fund transfer, paving the way for money transaction through cell phones across the country Text phone (SMS) Banking: Many of the national and multinational banks have introduced this service to allow customers with text phones to check their balance, pay bills and transfer money. ONLINE BANKING: Products Services of  Different banks in Bangladesh Eastern Bank Limited Credit Card: The brand name of credit card of EBL is Simple Credit Card. The basic features of EBL credit cards are: its free for its clients for all time, it can be used for balance transfer, mobile alert facilities, it has world wide acceptability, Immediate cash advance service, risk assurance program, convenient payment option and global emergency assistance service etc. Debit Card: EBL has introduced the Debit Card for the savings Account holder who can use it to meet immediate obligation if he/she has enough balance to his/her bank account just after going to their ATM booths available with its each branch and sharing with others. Life-Style Card and Cool Card: These Cards are introduced only for the students for a soft condition but having a great exposure. Phone Banking: EBL Providing Phone Banking facilities to its clients as a part of online banking facilities. SMS Banking: EBL uses the SMS Banking to provide services to the grass-root level customers. Here a fixed SMS code is fixed for each specific service. DHAKA BANK LIMITED Phone Banking: The DBL has brought a great change in Phone Banking. Now this facility is getting so popularity. Internet Banking: All its ATM booths as well as branches are connected through Internet for which the any information among branches can be transferred within a moment. SMS Banking: The DBL is using the SMS Banking to provide services to the grass-root level customers. Here a fixed SMS code fixed for each specific service. International Card: Its a card which is accepted World-wide for Purchase Cash Withdrawals. Its a great service for its customers. Debit Card: It has been providing Debit Card facilities to its customers who can meet their money withdrawal matters at any ATM booths of its own operated or sharing with others to provide the security of its clients money. Credit Card: The Dhaka Bank has been providing the Credit Card facilities to its customers interest. Its named as Dhaka Bank VISA Credit Card. TRUST BANK LIMITED Credit Card: The Trust Bank uses the VISA Credit Card for Local, International and Dual Currencies. Its one of the banks personal banking services. Debit Card: The Trust Bank uses the Trust VISA-Electron Debit Card for local, international and dual currencies. It is one of the banks automated services to the customers. Phone Banking: It has such services for its customers. Internet Banking: It deals all the foreign transactions through the Internet Banking. SMS Banking: It deals with the grass-root clients through providing the SMS Banking services. DUTCH-BANGLA BANK LIMITED Bangladesh Bank data shows that there are about 600 ATMs in the country. The number was less than 300 a year ago. Currently, Dutch-Bangla Bank Limited has the largest network with 260 ATMs, with up to 12 new booths coming every month. Thirteen banks can use DBBL booths. Besides, the bank has an agreement with Q-Cash, allowing ATM cardholders of Mercantile Bank and Trust Bank to take cash from the same booths. Also, Dutch-Bangla Bank clients can use all Q-Cash outlets. The bank has a similar agreement with E Cash that runs 24 booths across the country. Now a day, they are providing truly Online Banking. Credit Card: The Dutch-Bangla Bank is only the bank which has more ATM booths than any other banks operating their business in Bangladesh. The DBBL-Nexus Credit Card is one of the medium which it permits to withdraw a certain limits of money from its booths. Debit Card: It is another product through which the Card holder is able to withdraw the money amount from his/her account. Its known as the DBBL-Nexus Debit Card. Phone Banking: They are very successful with the Phone banking (Telephone and Cell Phone). Internet Banking: About 80% of their e-banking is based on the internet Banking. SMS Banking: They also have SMS banking for the clients who are out of the Internet connection and they can have access to get the immediate service with just an SMS. ARAB BANGLADESH BANK LIMITED Debit Card: AB Bank uses the AB Bank Visa Debit Card. Credit Card: The name of AB Banks Credit Card is the AB Bank VISA EASICredit Card. Phone Banking: It uses phone banking as part of e-banking to run its online banking transactions. Internet Banking: The bank provides this service to its customers with a little limit. Western Union Money Transfer: It is also the member of Western Union Money Transfer for which its able to transfer money from one country to another within a moment. BANK ASIA Credit Card: The name of the Bank Asias Credit Card is Bank Asia Credit Card [MasterCard]. Debit Card: The name of the Debit Card of this bank is Bank Asia Debit Card. Mobile Banking: It uses Mobile banking as part of e-banking to run its online banking transactions. Internet Banking: The bank provides this service to its customers with a little limit. SMS Banking: It uses the SMS banking to deal with its grass-root clients. BRAC BANK LIMITED Mobile Banking: It uses Mobile banking as part of e-banking to run its online banking transactions. Internet Banking: The bank provides this service to its customers with a little limit. SMS Banking: It uses the SMS banking to deal with its grass-root clients. Debit Card: The name of Debit Card of the BRAC BANK is BRAC Bank Debit Card. Its allowed for the customers who have only the savings account and can withdraw only the amount belongs to its account balance. Credit Card: It introduces the 0% Credit Card named BRAC Bank Credit Card [MasterCard] which is undoubtedly an exclusive offer to all which is applicable for first 3 months interest free for all retail purchases. It charges no interest for balance transfer. It also allows 10 more supplementary cards for all the relatives. HONGKONG SANGHAI BANKING CORPORATION (HSBC) Credit Card: Although a limited number, a short listed Credit Cards are using by a few Bangladeshis who have a strong Credit worthiness. It permits a certain limits to withdraw beyond ones balance. Debit Card: Its using very much in Bangladesh. A number of ATM booths are available in Bangladesh including Dhaka and Chittagong. Mobile Banking: It uses Mobile banking as part of e-banking to run its online banking transactions. But its not applicable in Bangladesh yet. Internet Banking: Each and every branch of the HSBC is connected through the internet and about 80% of their e-banking is based on the internet Banking. SMS Banking: They also have SMS banking for the clients who are out of the Internet connection and they can have access to get the immediate service with just an SMS. STANDARD CHARTERED BANK Credit Card: It permits to use the Credit Cards to its customers. Debit Card: The customers are using Debit Cards and having great facilities with international bank. Internet Banking: Most of the services of this bank is operating through the Internet. Findings Analysis INDEPTH SWOT ANALYSIS (S)TRENGTHS: Diversification: These ten banks offer various online banking services as to attract the customers of different groups of people. Lower cost advantage: As the banks bring in bulks of customers, their operational costs go down. Multinational marketing capabilities: Being global bank, HSBC and Standard Chartered Bank enjoys the multinational marketing capabilities. They have been successful in attracting savings of savers and investors and lending a large volume of loans with the help of their online banking facilities. Start-up may take time: In order to register for a banks online program, we will probably have to provide ID and sign a form at a bank branch. If the bank is satisfied after proper scrutiny, the bank will permit us to start internet banking which may take a few days. (W)EAKNESSES: Centralization: These banks managements are mostly centralized follows top-down approach, decisions come form corporate branch and sometimes it takes much time to get the approval for credit card, where it could have been done faster. Since, Its competitive market, competitors can take this opportunity to move ahead of it. Manual works: Although the banking system is computerized of the banks; simultaneously records are kept manually for auditing purpose, such as using rubber chop, giving signatures, writing on forms etc. Therefore, these manual works destroy the value that the organization created significantly. Costly: Still most of the banks online banking facilities are somewhat costly. As a result they are yet to be succeeded to bring a large number of customers under the umbrella of E-Banking. (O)PPORTUNITIES: Many untapped regions over the country: Banks can attract even more customers by expanding its branches to other districts or regions and at the same time ensuring online banking service in Bangladesh, and thereby increase their market share profitability. Innovation: Banks innovative online banking products would be able to satisfy various customers needs thereby would be able to reach different target segments. Credit Card Facility: At present, a particular segment has a potential demand for credit cards, so the banks can utilize this opportunity to drag that particular segment before any of its competitors do. Although few banks already providing this facility, but the demand is still there as the existing facility is not sufficient comparing to the need. (T)HREATS: Duplication of the HSBCs service: Existing multinational local banks could copy the banks financial services, so they have to move ahead of others faster. Emerging Competition: New local and multinational banks or other financial institutions could emerge as the banking industry in Bangladesh is still growing, and become a threat to the existing online banking service providers. Political instability: As Bangladeshs political situation is unstable; it affects banking industry as well. So, it means the banks may face fluctuating demand for their products too. Security System used by the Banks Most of the lading banks follow the following security system for their online banking. Software: Online banking service of these banks employs the 128-bit Secure Socket Layer (SSL), which is one of the strongest encryption technologies; most commonly used by large-scale online merchants, banks, and brokerages worldwide. All online sessions between customers and the banks are protected by up to 128-bit encryption, which best protects customers information against disclosure to third parties. TPII software operates on the UNIX platform, which is known to be the worlds most secure and redundant operating system providing multiple users and multiple tasking facilities and Database is maintained in Oracle (RDBMS), the worlds most secure database system. Encryption is used to protect information: Encryption is a method of scrambling customers information to protect its transmission across the Internet. Encryption transforms data into an unreadable form, and decryption reverses that process. Both encryption and decryption require the use of a special code, usually referred to as a key. The encryption of data provides a strong degree of protection against tampering while data is moving through the Internet.    Cookies are not used for this service: A cookie is information that a web site puts on customers hard disk that it can remember something about customer at a later time. This mechanism allows the server to store its own information about a user on the users own computer. These ten banks do not use cookies for this service. ATM Hardware: a) Racal brand 128 bit Host Security Module (HSM) through which card information is encrypted, decrypted along with PIN generation. This device is used worldwide to maintain and relay highly secure information as an exchange platform. After HSM has verified and authorized the PIN and decrypts it, customers receive funds from ATM. The HSM is also responsible for generating ATM Card PINs for the TPII. b) Each ATM has a built-in 64-bit encryption device for ensuring maximum security during transactions. c) Three different ATM models are currently in use. They are the 1064ix (stand-alone ATM), 1071ix (Through-the-Wall ATM) 1072ix (Through-the-Wall) models. Each of the ATMs can capacitate up to four cash cassettes, of which, each one may hold up to 2,000 cash notes. Cash loading in ATMs are based entirely on usage frequency of the machines. d) All ATM booths have 24/7 CCTV surveillance systems to keep records of transactions taking place for a period of over one year. Moreover, each booth has a hot-telephone link affixed for troubleshooting and instant help-desk services. Problems  of implementating online banking Infrastructural deficiency: [WEAKNESS] To implement online banking in our state, the infrastructure is necessary. For this we need availability of electricity supply and telecommunication. Without developing these we cant develop this online banking system properly. Budget allocation: [WEAKNESS] The software is vary intricate to develop because e lacking of apposite in-house. In this regard, banks are to rely on software developing concerns at extreme costs. Hackers: The hacking, the serious crime of computer causes the injury and hazard to the security and safety of users of computer involved in online technology. As a result, hackers are the influential troubles of users of online business of a bank. Online banking services will not be feasible for an economy as most people are illiterate. They are beyond the scope of normal banking service. Micro-credit industry is now not only providing small credit but also mobilizing savings. The big problems are in the regulatory framework: [WEAKNESS] Lack of full convertibility. Bangladesh citizen cannot have access to the world wide online banking service due to regulatory restrictions. The reserve position will not allow free inter-country fund transfer. Risk: [THREAT] The credit information available for banks is often wrong, so it is very difficult to check whether the customer has difficult on a card issued by another bank. A data bank is required to see the list of the defaulters. More unconventional banks fill that gap in the market, trying to grab a share of the internet money, on the premises that they represent the richest and most educated part of the population. Privacy: Another central issue to the consumer is privacy. Database marketing is nothing but the manipulation of data over which customers feel that they want to have some kind of control. The general rule is that consumer privacy rights should be respected. Individuals should easily opt out of online marketing as an extension of their right to be removed from junk mail lists. Unemployment: [THREAT] One pre-conceived widespread idea is computers will displace labor. This is a matter of empirical study. Productivity and profitability are closely interrelated terms. The experienced excess staffs can be easily absorbed in to the expanding financial market. The unemployment will only be structural unemployment since the displaced labor will sooner have later acquired the necessary computer skills and thus become more efficient. Cost-effectiveness: [Weakness] Another misconception is that it is not cost effective. None of the banks that have designed properly on automation plan and implemented it with proper cost benefit analysis became less superior. Actually the acceptance of financial modernization is a matter of vision to the future. Unless computers become cheaper and online facilities become within the reach of middle class, they will remain unfamiliar with internet, and will thus avert them. Role of Government This is particularly important for countries like Bangladesh where very little has been done in development these technologies and skills to promote and support online banking. The government can take the following policies to promote online banking in our country: The intergovernmental agreement for harmonizing the rules and regulations that can help in smooth transformation of the world economy and expansion of a unified world market. The regulations should simply foster competition, protect intellectual property and privacy, and prevent fraud to do businesses under whatever terms they agree upon. An international uniform commercial code is needed to simplify and encourage electronic commerce under consistent rules and rights. Govt. can undertake perfect initiatives to construct feasible, platform of information technology within affordable capacity. Financial allocation should be more widen for global standard banking technology. Adequate number of bank employee will have both computer and banking aptitude and cognizance, suitable in the banking perspective to improve the banking sector. Tele-communication sector is pre-conditions to make fastest online banking services. Unfortunately a tale-communication service of govt. is yet to reach to remote and rural area. RECOMMENDATIONS These banks should Do frequent marketing research: The management of the banks should regularly administer marketing research activities in order to keep a regular track of satisfaction levels. As customer expectations and satisfaction are not static figures regular research at sufficient intervals should be conducted. Handle complains effectively: The banks should actively manage the complaints of various customers and encourage customers to give feedback about the services. The management should collect document complaints use that information to identify dissatisfied customers, correct individual problems where possible and identify common service failure points. Focus on segmentation strategies: The bank should concentrate on the various demographic segments that are currently not very satisfied with the banks services. Products services should be tailored for these segments. Appropriate research and surveys should be designed to find out the requirements of these dissatisfied segments. Do Relationship Marketing: The banks should focus more on existing customers in order to build strong and loyal relationship with them as the survey showed that satisfied customers more aptly or certainly recommends the bank to friends and relatives. Thus the power of relationship will foster Positive Word of Oral Communication and will attract new customers at a lower cost. Establish more ATM booths: From the survey, it is clear that customers are not very happy regarding ATMs locations. So, sufficient number of ATM booths should be established in different location to reach out the customers even further and thereby satisfying their demand. Introduce Credit Card Facility: While handling customers over the counter also over telephone, a certain demand for credit card facility was noticed strongly. We think, if the banks introduce this facility, more customers will be attracted therefore, they will achieve greater market share. Reduce Manual works to minimum: Although many of the ten banks do automation, still there are many things which are done manually in order to tract any errors or transaction, especially in emergency such as system failure etc. As a result, so much time is spent on this type of manual maintenance, which reduces value on delivering services. Thus, it hampers efficiency on delivering faster services. Educate customers in using Phone banking service: A few banks have introduced phone banking service or automatic telephone banking (ATB) in order to fulfill general customer needs and queries quickly, without interrupting employees. However, customers seemed reluctant to use this facility due to fear of machine usage or difficulty in remembering the seventeen digit numbers. Introduce SWIFT: Autonomous Banking culture, reducing dependence on manual service, should be in abundance irrespective of govt. and non-govt. organization in association with `SWIFT to bring about the whole banking service for massive well being of people. Ensuring proper training to the employees: Training should be imparted to the existing IT personnel. the new recruits for IT personnel should be provided with relevant education background. Conclusion Online Banking sets off the journey with a mission of reaching to target group of people across our country. The globalization facilitates the extinction of untidy and troublesome services in order to consolidate the very variegated, faster as well exquisite services to keep the people in regular touch of modernization. Considering this decision, banks and financial concerns took some welcome move recently. Usually all private owned banks from abroad coupled with a few local banks in collaboration with domestic support launched the trend of on-line banking. The completely refurbished banking sector stresses effort to spread this culture of banking. In this connection, only a few banks establish the timely steps by eradicating all sorts of strains and inconvenience in all respect. Since the financial services needs to be very optimum certain not scattered to foster the belief and reliance of people over banking sector. Thereby, the very exclusive and classic service procedure can be accommodated amidst of integration of joint collaboration with modern system. Alongside, the existing banking sector pays much heed and concentration to the fastest growth and development of Online Banking System. In this regard, Bangladesh is still in the backseat whereas the rest of the world is burning in flame of excellence at large. Despite the ascendancy of irresistible constraints, inconsistency that engulf the origin of the online trading, we are extremely aspiring and sanguine of prompt and illustrious development of online banking as rapidly as possible. Therefore, the banks should move ahead of its rivals by applying the recommendations provided above. Certainly, it will help reducing the gap (or dissatisfaction) retaining existing customers. And, once this dissatisfied customers become satisfied, it will not only help to retain existing customers, but it will also help to drag new customers through positive word-of-mouth communications. Also, it will help to attract new segments with different needs. Many customers are dissatisfied due to some areas of incompetent services. So, in order to sustain in the highly competitive banking industry, the banks should take

Hardware and Software Required for a System :: Papers

Hardware and Software Required for a System There are two main types of components required for a system to work. These are: v Hardware – The parts of a computer that you can see and you can handle; the exterior components of the computer. v Software – The actual programs that allow the hardware to do a useful job. Hardware The main components of an ICT system include the following: v Input devices – these enable the data to enter the system. This could be through keyboard, scanner, digital camera, etc. v Central Processing Unit (CPU) – the brain of the computer. This part of the hardware stores and processes data. It has three parts: ALU (arithmetic and logic unit; it performs all the arithmetic and logic operations), the control unit, and the memory. v Backing storage – consists of the disk drives, tape drives, RW-CD (read/write compact disk), RW-DVD (read/write digital versatile disk), etc. used to store data when the power is switched off. [IMAGE] Software Software is the general name for programs that can be run on computer hardware. There are two main categories of software: operating system software and applications software. Operating systems are programs that control the computer hardware directly. The operating system I am going to choose for the new system will be Windows XP. Applications software is used to perform a specific task. Applications software varies from word-processing packages used to write letter, prepare reports, etc. to specialist applications packages used only within one industry. The applications I will be choosing for the new system will be: v MS word – A word processing application. This will be used for word processing letters of confirmation, letters of payment, and mail merging letters. v MS access – A database application. This will be used for taking details such as personal information, booking details, and payment details. v MS excel – A spreadsheet application, this application can make

Comparing Divine Punishment in Oedipus Rex and Leda and the Swan :: comparison compare contrast essays

Divine Punishment in Oedipus Rex and Leda and the Swan        Ã‚  Ã‚   Divine punishment is an irreversible occurrence that creates distinct attitudes in characters.   In Yeats' poem, Leda and the Swan and Sophocles' Oedipus Rex, Divine punishment plays a crucial role, and is the basis for the actions of both Oedipus and Leda.    Yeats and Sophocles explore the idea of Divine punishment in various ways.   Yeats shows Leda's attitude towards the experience of the rape, and the result of the rape leads to Leda's attitude towards the Gods, which then leads to many more travesties.   In a similar way, Sophocles shows Oedipus' reaction to Divine punishment when Oedipus realizes that he has killed his father and married his mother.   It was these actions that drove Leda and Oedipus to experience Divine punishment.   As a result, each has suffered even more.    In Yeats' poem, Leda and the Swan, Yeats explores the idea of Divine punishment in using the result of Leda's rape as his subject.   The offspring Leda produced represents the Divine punishment of the story.   In the story, Leda is raped by a swan, which represents Zeus, the most powerful Greek God.   The consequences of this rape includes two children, Helen and Clytemnestra who later marry and experience the fall of the Trojan empire and the killing of Agamemnon, Clytemnestra's husband.   The story of Leda and the Swan creates a vivid portrait of a rape between an all-powerful swan and Leda, the Spartan Queen.   It is peculiar that two such powerful individuals are the subjects of the horrendous act of rape. Zeus is the most powerful of all gods, and Leda herself has great power, being the Queen of Sparta.   Aside from this however, lies another topic, which Yeats attempts to explore, and that is the idea of Divine punishment. The mere thought of punishment from the Div ine, meaning God, is the reason why Leda allows the Swan to continue the rape without a great deal of fight.   Yeats writes, "Being so caught up, so mastered by the brute blood of the air, did she put on his knowledge with his power before the indifferent beak could let her drop?" (Kuehn 140).   Here, Leda must choose whether or not she should put all of her power in Zeus, knowing that he has harmed her.   Her action to not resist the force leads to the Divine punishment.

Foreign Language Requirement

In the persuasive argument All Students Should be Required to Study a Foreign Language, posted on 123helpme. com the writer makes the argument that all Americans should have some type of formal education in a foreign language. The writer gives a few good reasons supporting his claim. The benefits given are better race relations for the country as well as an improved foreign interest. The writer is basing his claim on the solid assumption that language is the most fundamental aspect of a culture and when doing business abroad language barriers can be a burden.The argument even goes on to say that incorporating foreign language into the American society will create a more well-rounded society. â€Å"Foreign language skills can have a positive impact on race relations in America. † stated in the second paragraph of the argument. It is a known fact that the number of minorities in America are continually increasing. American students that study a foreign language of the predominat e minority group in their region of the county have a better insight to the minority’s culture.Understanding a minority’s language can help natives understand their neighbors culturally and on a personal level. â€Å"If we take these bits of insight and understanding and couple them with compassion, fertile ground for multicultural harmony in America will be sown. † says the writer. Foreign language skill can definitely improve domestic affairs. America is a part of the global economy which involves American and foreign interaction. Having language barriers can be a burden when it comes to foreign interest.Most foreign businessmen speak English for the benefit of making money in American businesses. It is assumed that if American businessmen had foreign language skills they should be more successful at the bargaining table. Foreign language skill can also improve foreign relations. â€Å"If American ambassadors, envoys, diplomats and representatives were able t o speak the language of their counterparts, conflicts could be resolved more easily. † the writer states. Foreign language can surely prove useful for foreign interest.All American students should be required to study a foreign language. This argument is valid and convincing due to its sufficient facts on the matter. The author gives 2 very reasonable claims towards the argument. Each point happens to be logical. The author evens points out counter arguments, which seem a bit closed minded and a bit unreasonable. Therefore the argument has certainly been made. . â€Å"All Students Should be Required to Sudy a Foreign Language. † 123HelpMe. com. 11 Oct. 2012 http://www. 123HelpMe. com/view. asp? id=20601. Foreign Language Requirement Foreign Language High School Requirement A survey done by the Center for Applied Linguistics in 2008 found that â€Å"The findings indicate a serious disconnect between the national call to educate world citizens with high-level language skills and the current state of foreign language instruction in schools across the country†(Cal:Research). This is concerning as all of the competition for the U. S. is gaining a step and we're doing nothing . If the U. S. expects to continue to be competitive in the global market we need to have bilingual citizens.In order to ensure this, we must require a foreign language be learned in high school. To fully master a language by the end of high school, a student's education of it needs to begin in Kindergarten. Studies have shown that the best time frame to learn a foreign language is from Kindergarten to 3rd Grade. It would be better, though, to start in Kindergarten so there is a consistent education throughout elementary school. The brain learns better at a young age so the language will be learned faster and more easily in lower grades. Not only this, but extended exposure is need to become fluent in a language (Porter).By the time the students reached high school they could speak the language outside of class to become even more fluent. By the end of high school these students would be bilingual. If the U. S. requires a foreign language be learned in high school, it's education should start in Kindergarten. Bilingual students receive additional benefits outside of simply knowing another language. Bilinguals, superior to their monolingual peers, are better at critical thinking, pattern recognition, divergent thinking, and creativity (â€Å"Foreign Language A Must†¦ â€Å").These advanced cognitive abilities are shown on tests as after 3-4 years of taking a language students show improved standardized test scores (Porter). This means that students will have better math and English test scores without even taki ng the classes. Also, bilingual students are more sensitive to other cultures. They can compare and contrast languages and know how what certain words mean in different contexts (â€Å"Make Foreign Language a High School Requirement†). This is something that is sorely needed in the U. S. because the majority of our citizens are unknowledgeable of different cultures.It would serve as a wake-up call. New bilingual citizens would bring new perspectives to problems that face our society today. Another benefit to learning a foreign language the brain â€Å"ages† slower and neurologists say learning a foreign language delays the onset of Dementia (Porter). In learning a foreign language, one enjoys many indirect benefits. Just knowing English isn't enough for exchanges in diplomatic, military, professional, or commercial contexts with other countries. When in a different country, monolinguals are at a disadvantage compared to bilinguals because they have to hire an interpret er.Monolinguals have trouble picking up both verbal and non-verbal clues of a different language (Porter). They could violate social taboo and can't follow side conversations. This is a huge risk as one could be thrown out of a country and by violating the unwritten rules. This could set an unwanted reputation for Americans. Having been bilingual, students have cultural knowledge and understanding. This helps with the daily interactions required in living in another country (â€Å"Make Foreign Language A High School Requirement†). Clearly having more bilingual citizens would help America in communication and interactions with other countries.Having many bilingual citizens also helps in diplomatic and economic interactions with a foreign nation as it establishes a good relationship by knowing their culture. â€Å"Thomas L. Friedman cited a businessman, Todd Martin, who said that ‘our education failure is the largest contributing factor to the decline of the American wor kers' global effectiveness† (Porter). By requiring a foreign language be learned in high school, the U. S. will increase its workers ability to compete in the global market and their ability to interact with foreign workers.With society becoming more and more global, it will become a necessity to know a foreign language. Export business's are growing in double digits every year and foreign business's are expanding at a rapid rate (Porter). Obviously there is a growing need for bilinguals(Porter). At this point, there are more internet users in Asia than in North America (â€Å"Foreign Language a Must for High School Graduation†). The global economy is diversifying and if the U. S. expects to dominate the market we must follow the trend of our competition. In countries like Japan knowing two languages is the standard(â€Å"Make Foreign Language a High School Requirement†).How can we expect to compete with Japan if their workers have a big advantage over U. S. work ers in knowing multiple languages. In terms of foreign language, the U. S. is lagging behind its competition and to keep up we need to follow the trend of requiring a foreign language. The opposition to requiring a foreign language in High School argue that it violates the right of students to choose some classes. They say it restricts the number of electives a student can take but a foreign language is far more important than some elective.A foreign language class is something that will benefit the student for the rest of their life. Students already have required classes for math, science, English, history, and a fine art, but a language is a fine art. In a foreign language class a student learns about the art of a different culture. For example, on Day of the Dead in Spanish class I learned about Hispanic culture. In creating art similar to what is used in Spain and Mexico on Day of the Dead, I expressed my creativity which is the purpose of an art class. Clearly, foreign languag e is a fine art, and therefore should be required.The opponents to requiring a foreign language in High School say that everyone else is learning English so why should we learn foreign languages. This is ignorant because we can't expect everyone to learn English. By not knowing a different countries language, we have no insight into their culture and could never fully understand them. It makes sense to require a foreign language to understand foreign countries and to compete with them. Learning a foreign language needs to be a requirement in High School. The education of foreign language should begin in kindergarten because that is when a child learns best.By learning another language that child benefits through better test scores and improved cognitive abilities. Americans going to other countries would benefit through better understanding that countries culture and not needing an interpreter everywhere they go. The U. S. needs bilingual citizens to interact with other nations (Por ter). If we want to be more marketable and compete on a global-scale we must become bilingual. By requiring a foreign language be learned in High School, we are creating a brighter and more prosperous future for the United States of America.

Naming and Shaming Sex Offenders Essay

Define: The social issue naming and shaming sex offenders is the worst sex offenders being named and shamed on a website with their picture, name, address and date of birth on their profile. People can type in the suburb they live in and see what sex offenders live in their area. Argument #1 For: Sex offenders, even more so than other forms of crime, are prone to re-offending upon release from prison. Therefore, to protect society, they should be required to register with a local police station, and their names and addresses should be made available to the public. Police would also supply this information to schools and day cares, who will be consequently far more alert to any risk. Parents would find this information invaluable in ensuring their children’s safety, and it would cut the rate of sexual crime by those freed from prison. In the end, we have to protect our children at any cost. Against: This proposal is an essential violation of the principles of our penal system, which are based on the serving of a set punishment before being freed from prison. This registration inflicts a new punishment for an old crime and will lead to sex offenders to be demonized by their neighbours and community, and possibly be forced to move out of the town they are located in. It will also lead to campaigns and violence, sometimes against innocent people with similar looks and names, such a risk cannot be taken. Argument #2 For: Crimes for sexual offence are among the most repulsive and damaging that exist; they can ruin a person’s life. As the offenders responsible for these crimes cannot be imprisoned forever, and must be released at some point extra caution must be taken to ensure they pose no threat to the public. Against: The suggestions of this website are clouding the options. Physiological evaluations can define accurately whether an offender is still danger to society or not. If an offender is still a danger to society then they should not be released from prison, if they are not a danger any more then they should be released and be able to live a happy and normal life. Studies have shown that treatment is quite effective to help reduce the rate of re-offending. Argument #3 For: A national web register would allow police to track re-offenders faster, increasing the success rate and the speed of which they are brought to justice. Against: Police can be aided by a register only available to the police. Making it public might make the offenders run and making it hard for police to track them. Studies have shown that a public register is a subjective to abuse from the public. Around 2 out of every 5 offenders have been a victim of vigilantism. The social ostracism, denial of rehabilitative measure such as housing and stable employment, and threats of vigilantism, making former offenders disobey reporting requirements. Argument #4 For: A national register would benefit sexual offenders directly, as they would be on local registers of counseling and psychological help groups, who would be more able to offer help. Against: Offenders should have access to these services anyway, regardless of whether their names are available to society or not. This register has led to large qualities of withdrawing sex offenders listen on the register, along with their families. The register is a spread of myths and stereotypes used by the public to justify the ostracism and denial of service. Sex offenders in Australia have lost jobs, housing and treatment options and forced to live under never ending changing requirements.

Family Systems Theory

Family Systems Theory: Family Cohesion When growing up families are and have been considered systems because they are made up of interrelated elements or objectives. Families are examples to show that they have regular behaviors, they have regular interactions, and they are interdependent on one another. It is believed the family can be defined as a set of interacting individuals who are related by blood, marriage, cohabitation, or adoption.Although they are numerous in number some functions of the family include values and practices placed on theories that are used to explain patterns of living among the individuals who make up the family systems. In system theory, behaviors and family members responses influence the regulation of the family pattern and the family life pattern. Meanings and values are vital components of the family system and provide motivation and energy. Every family has a unique culture, value, structure, and history. We can choose our friends and sometimes even the people we choose to work with, but we cannot in any way choose who our family members are.We are stuck with them for better or for worse and we are bound together forever; fortunately or unfortunately. As individuals, we are each are unique in more ways than can we can even begin to list Because of this, family members don’t always get along and disagreements can be expected. Family cohesion is important. Families who have healthy levels of cohesion emotionally interact with one another and find the unspoken balance that supports us when we want our very own individual independence and in the same hand we can continue to maintain our family togetherness.Healthy family cohesion is not only strength, but a resource for families that will assist them in facing the daily challenges of family life. This system helps with assisting in maintaining a healthy marriage, and in providing a nurturing environment for all the children if present within the family. Family members from c ohesive family environments feel included and emotionally connected with the family. Low  family cohesion  indicates a  weak  emotional bond among family members. It is important to do all things possible to maintain a high family cohesion; this will keep the family system strong.

A Most Special Person in My Life Essay

Except my family, there is one person, Thu Cuu, who I will always remember and respect because of her personalities, she is kind and also she is the one I love. Nothing is impossible with her no matter what is it, where is it and why is it, that is what I learn from her. A girl is perfect for every situation; she does not need to be dazzling, but people still have looked at her. Basically, I think every man in this world wants this lady to become his wife, even me. Surely, her personalities can make people who do not like to talk will talk, and her kindness can make everybody respects her, even that is the guy who hates her the most. In my opinion, it is hard to find one like her in this century, whether there is at least one or not, I still always think of her. First of all, her personalities attract me when we first met each other, I really admire her. She is friendly and kind of cute with her voice and smile to keep people around her. She can be a center in a crowd easily. I like her at the first time we met; we talk about a lot of things just like we are best friends. That is also the first time I feel free with a girl, because I usually stuck when I try to talk to a girl. Read more: The person I admire the most is my mother  essay She is very sociable, that is the reason why she has a lot of friends. Moreover, she likes to play no matter what kind of games. You can image that when a girl play some games that only reserve for boys like bias, she can play and play even better than boys. The trick is she does with all her heart and forgets what people say about her, just be happy when she plays. She respects friendship and loves her family. I am very sure that she is going to do anything to protect them. For example, I remembered clearly one time that she was late for a party and I yelled on her, then we altercated. Soon, I found out that she was late because she had to pick up her mom from work; it was not her fault. I did not know that, but the first person said sorry was her. Later I knew that the first person said sorry, it did not mean that person was wrong, it meant that person respected relationship between them more than other. I felt like I was guilty; I apologized her, instead of still getting angry on me, then she smiled with me like nothing never happened Secondly, her kindness can make a most kindness person must be jealous. She is very kind for everyone, not only her friends, just because that is who she is. Imagine that when you go to the gas station and someone goes to ask you to give them some money, because their car is out of gas and they are out of money. Certainly, you will look at their car, what they wear and think is it a trick. In opposite way, while you are busy at exploration, she already gives them money, because one time she told me helping people is the happiest thing in the world. She does not care much about it is a trick or not, even if it is a trick, she is still happy. Moreover, she is a good listener. Usually, when I am sad, or any kind of feeling, I will share with her, she will be there to hear them. Not just listening, she also gives me a best advice. I believe that she never tell anyone else what I tell her, she extremely knows how to keep secret. That is why people believe her mostly. Sometimes, I get angry on her because of my stuffs, but she is still quite, listens and never complains a word. Say, for other example, I got 35/100 on a physical exam; I was very sad and disappointed. When she knew that, she made a plan to revive me. She knew what I like and I do not like. Something I like but she does not, but she accepted it and did it for me. We went to the movie theater, went to eat my favorite food and got my major drinks. We went to play skating and skiing, then heading to the beach. Beach was my favorite place; I usually went there when I was in feeling, but she did not like the beach at much. We went down to the beach and high to the mountain. Really, that was the funniest day with me, we talked a lot, I forgot why I was sad and headed to the future. Thu Cuu is the best Last but not least, Thu Cuu is the one I love, a hundred percent surely. One day, a girl appeared without many attractive characteristics who changed my life. She was not like any other girls I met before. When I was stuck in the dark and very disappointed, she stood there in front of me with her smile such as a brightest star and showed me which ways were right or wrong. She told me that I did not know what was waiting for me ahead; I got to learn how to fight it. For example, at the final time last semester, my family had some problems like my brother sold his car and went to Vietnam without asking my parents a word, my dad and my mom’s jobs were in trouble, and my study was more difficult. I was blind and disappointed. At that time, there was no one helping me except one, Thu Cuu. Side by side, she and I figured out every problem and solved it like she helped me to contact and persuade my brother to come back here. She helped me to study, kept me in calm and bought me drinks and food, so I could focus on the exams. She also had her exams, but she still spent her time to help me. Honestly, I knew this was the person I could live with forever. Another time, her friend from other state came here to visit her. I was jealous. Without her, I felt like I was in the hole. I was easy to get angry because of nothing, I just wanted that she was only for me, and I knew that I loved her. Beside her, I always feel happy and love life. One of the most beautiful things about Thu is her smile, if she just smiles with me, I am very sure that all of my stress will be gone, also it is the most reason why I love her. A girl without many attractions who I think of most of my time always stays with me when I am in trouble. Totally, she is a hundred percent perfect. After all, Thu Cuu is the only one I will treat with all my heart. She is now such as my family member that I never want to lose. No matter what people say about her, in my mind, she is always a girl I first met and loved. Because of her personalities, I know that nothing is impossible in this world. She helped me to be able to understand how to be a good man. Her kindness brings me much knowledge of treatment. That helps me how to get respected from people who hate me. Love is the most beautiful thing in the world that people do not use machine to know, and it will be prettier if you love a person who you never forget.

What Does it Take to Get into Fordham University?

Only 46% of Fordham University applicants are admitted. What does it take to get in? Founded in 1841 by the Catholic Diocese of New York, Fordham University is an acclaimed private research institution located in New York City. Fordham is a Jesuit, Catholic institution that is committed to both its founding religious values and the academic development of its student body. Additionally, the university and its students are fully engaged with its greater urban community—truly living up to the saying, New York is my campus. Fordham is my school.   With its rich history and dedication to excellence, Fordham is a top choice for many applicants around the world. However, with an acceptance rate of 46%, getting into Fordham is no guarantee. If you’re looking to contribute to Fordham’s vibrant community, keep reading for tips on how to craft a successful application. You can apply to Fordham University using The Common Application. For more information on The Common Application, check out our application guide, The Common App: Everything You Need to Know . Students may apply by November 1 for either Early Decision, Early Action or Priority Performance and by January 11 for Regular Decision.   There are specific commitment expectations associated with priority deadlines ; if you’re unsure about when you should apply, check out our post Early Action vs. Early Decision vs. Restricted Early Action for more insight. When applying, be sure to submit the following: Transfer applicants have a different set of deadlines and requirements. For more information, visit Fordham’s Transfer Admission page. With an undergraduate admissions rate of 46%, Fordham is moderately selective. In the fall of 2018, 46,164 students applied and 21,216 were admitted. Of those, approximately 2,260 students actually enrolled. Although admissions statistics can be intimidating, keep in mind that the strength of your individual application factors heavily into your personal chance of acceptance. Beyond strong grades and test scores, a well-crafted application can make all of the difference.   Estimating your chance of getting into a college is not easy in today’s competitive environment. Thankfully, with our state-of-the-art software and data, we can analyze your academic and extracurricular profile and estimate your chances. Our profile analysis tool can also help you identify the improvement you need to make to enter your dream school. As a research institution shaped by the dynamism of New York City, Fordham values applicants who are passionate and committed to taking their learning beyond the classroom—a true embodiment of their motto Sapienta et Doctrina, or wisdom and learning. Academic History. Fordham University expects prospective students to have taken at least 16 academic credits in the following areas: Potential for Success. Although your test scores are just one aspect of your application, they are reviewed in conjunction with your grades to predict your future success at Fordham. The middle 50% of admitted students from the class of 2022 had SAT scores that ranged from 1310-1450 and ACT scores that ranged from 29-33. If you are interested in a particular area of study, keep in mind that there may be specific standardized test score â€Å"cutoffs†Ã¢â‚¬â€take a look at Fordham’s Test Scores page for more information. As demonstrated by their active Office of Multicultural Affairs , Fordham is truly dedicated to fostering a diverse community of leaders and learners. That being said, take the opportunity to let admissions know how your unique life experience and perspective will positively contribute to the greater Fordham community. Avoid wasting time by listing generic facts and figures about the university in essay. Remember, the essays are meant to provide admissions with a better understanding of who you are. A commitment to giving back has been integral to Fordham’s mission since its inception. Each year, Fordham students log over a million hours of community service. With this in mind, it is important to demonstrate to admissions that you are also dedicated to community engagement through your continued involvement in meaningful extracurriculars.    Participating in community service should never feel like checking off another box on list of college applications to-do’s. The key is to first find a cause you’re passionate about, and then get involved. A little over half of all applicants to Fordham University aren’t admitted, so don’t take a rejection to heart. If you are still set on becoming a Fordham Ram, you can always transfer in, but keep in mind that admissions are normally just as competitive the second time around. It can be difficult to find contentment in your backup choice after rejection, but there are many great-fit schools out there. One of the best ways to proceed is to maximize your experience at another university; if you still want to transfer after a year or two, you can then consider it. Getting into Fordham University is no easy feat, but you can definitely improve your chances by building a strong academic foundation and giving back to the community in an intentional way. If you would like more tailored advice on your admissions profile, our College Applications Program helps students navigate the applications process with insight from successful mentor at a top school. We help every step of the way, from creating a strong school list to preparing for interviews.