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Introduction

Issues pertaining to substance abuse have elicited some controversial opinions from different quarters. Needless to say, substance abuse has been one of the key problems with which the contemporary world is grappling. While there is general agreement as to this fact, there are controversial opinions as to the manner in which the individuals who are under the spell of substance abuse can be rescued. While numerous techniques exist for solving substance abuse and other harmful behaviors, none has been more controversial than harm reduction psychotherapy. This underlines a framework for solving substance abuse and other harmful behaviors with the sole aim of reducing their damaging consequences without necessitating abstinence as a prerequisite for treatment or a goal (Tatarsky and Marlatt, 117).

Harm reduction comes with a number of benefits.

First, it comes with a compassionate and comprehending view pertaining to the users. In most cases, substance abusers sink into the habit simply because they feel neglected and unwanted. This program, however, by being compassionate, enhances collaboration between professionals and consumers thereby enhancing their effectiveness.

Second, it encompasses a human rights agenda, considering that it caters for individuals who are seemingly marginalized from the larger society and who have in the past been having problems accessing quality care.

In addition, HRP has been extremely effective in reducing hepatitis and HIV infections especially considering that it promotes safe enjoyment of the substances for example through not sharing needles.

Moreover, it reduces the use of substances in public places, in which case the general public would be safer as there would be a decline in the number of used needles that they have to grapple with in the neighborhood.

Fifth, it has been found as effective in reducing deaths from overdose, as well as other early deaths among individuals that use substances as it would also enhance their capacity to abandon the habits.

In addition, it would educate such individuals about the how they can undertake safer injecting, as well as lower the frequency of injecting oneself, in which case they would be reduced risk of overdose or over-damage of avenues of abuse such as nose, mouth, anal area and skin.

HRP recognizes and appreciates the uniqueness of substance abusers, not to mention that it goes ahead to accept other goals other than abstinence as logical or reasonable starting points for treatment, in which case it has been accepted more wholesomely by abusers than conventional techniques.

Moreover, HRP comes as one of the most effective techniques for challenging stigmatization of substance abusers (Tatarsky and Marlatt 120). This means that it does not only target the addicts’ physical wellbeing but also their mental, psychological and emotional aspects that push them to the harmful habits.

In addition, the technique considers the fact that the client has specific strengths and motivations, in which case it seeks to use them to make a positive change at all points (Tatarsky and Marlatt 120). In this case, the strengths, motivations and goals would be used to dictate the therapy’s focus, as well as in determining the techniques that can be used to support the positive change in the patient.

Lastly, harm reduction psychotherapy blends varied therapies including cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and biological therapies, which, combined with its flexibility allows for its applicability in a broad spectrum of clients (Tatarsky and Marlatt 121).

Nevertheless, recent times have seen an increase in the vice especially among the youths. This may mainly be attributed to varied social changes including the following.

There has been an increase in the number of disrupted families, which results in poor adult care of teens at home.

In addition, working parents have become preoccupied with looking for ways to fend for their families in which case the kids have inadequate adult supervision.

Third, there has been intense migration and urbanization, which have resulted in a breakdown in the range of community support structures that took up the locum parenting roles.

Fourth, there has been an increase in the favorable attitudes towards abuse, or rather a decrease in the unfavorable attitudes to such activities.

Fifth, there has been an increase in the magnitude of responsibilities and strain that individuals have to grapple with right from an early stage in their lives.

Sixth, there has been a decrease in the utility of social norms pertaining to how individuals mingle and interact, with individuals being considerably free in their choice of individuals with whom they interact.

Seventh, there has been the entry of social media, which has eliminated some of the barriers that the societies had with regard to the people with whom the teens interact.

Eighth, the entry of internet means that teens have greater access to substances of every kind by a click of the mouse or button on their phones.

In addition, stricter laws on parentage with regard, especially concerning children rights, have increased the freedom that teens and children have, while reducing the capacity of their parents to discipline them.

Lastly, there has been a decrease in the ages within which people start bearing kids, in which case they have questionable parenting skills. This has been complemented by the increase in the numbers of orphans and the decreased role of social structures.

Works cited

Tatarsky, Andrew and Marlatt, G. Alan. State of the Art in Harm Reduction Psychotherapy: An Emerging Treatment for Substance Misuse. Journal of Clinical Psychology, Vol 68 (2). 117-122, 2010.

Adolescent Self Harm and SuicideAugust 06, 2013A. Required Information

The increasing incidence of reports of young people presenting in accident and emergency departments as a result of intentionally harming themselves has resulted in a concomitant increase in interest in this problem among clinicians and other healthcare providers (Storey & Hurry, 2005). There has also been a growing recognition that the statistics of self-harming young people from tertiary healthcare facilities only represent a fraction of the true incidence of self-harm in young people today (Storey & Hurry, 2005). Although precise numbers are unavailable, researchers have estimated the annual rates for acts of deliberate self-harm among young people at between 2.4% and 24%, with one survey indicating an annual rate of 6.9% among 15- and 16-year-olds with lifetime prevalence in excess of 13% (Storey & Hurry, 2005). In this proposed study, a triangulation or ‘mixed’ research method will be used as a methodological framework for quantitatively studying prevalence and early detection of adolescent suicide and self-harm.

The term “self-harm” refers to inflicting pain on oneself through cutting or burning to relieve emotional pain or distress (Heath & Toste, 2008). In some cases, self-inflicted injuries involve cutting or burning the body or use of a weapon such as a knife, razor blades or box cutters (Peterson, Freedenthal & Coles, 2013). A failed suicide attempt can be mistaken for an attempt at self-harm and vice versa and this is the source of a great deal of confusion for healthcare professionals working with adolescents (Peterson et al., 2013). One reason that adolescents might be drawn toward self-harm behaviors is the emotional high that they appear to achieve from cutting or burning themselves. There is an almost immediate release of endorphins into the bloodstream and a pleasurable high is experienced that helps to replace the numbness and pain that some young people feel in their lives by providing an emotional release (Straus, 2006).

Professionals working with adolescents should be aware of signs that could indicate that a youth is engaging in these behaviors. These can include cuts or burn marks on the body or wearing long sleeve shirts in the summer and being reluctant to have a physical exam. Parents might also provide information that can lead the professional to seek more information such as peer groups that the youth is now associating with or finding items in the home or in the bedroom which could be used for cutting or burning. Such awareness is important because teenage mortality is a public health issue and a majority of these deaths are preventable. Suicide is the third-leading cause of death among adolescents and it is believed that 14 to 24 percent of teenagers have engaged in acts of self-harm. Moreover, someone under the age of 24 years commits suicide every 2 hours in the United States, leaving behind families and communities that are left to wonder why these tragedies occur and what can be done to prevent them in the future.

B. Appropriateness of Approach

As noted earlier, triangulation or ‘mixed’ research method will be used in this study as a methodological framework for quantitatively studying prevalence and early detection of adolescent suicide and self-harm. Ideally, the study will be a quantitative research study that intends to use both primary and secondary research methods (triangulation) to accomplish its purpose. As noted by Hawton, Saunders and O’Connor (2012), self-harm and suicide are significant sources of public health problems in our nation’s adolescents with self-harm statistics being high among teenagers and suicide rates being noted as the third most prevalent cause of death among American teenagers (NIH, 2008). The triangulation research design will help us in exploring self-harm and suicide and evaluate how nurses and other professionals can recognize signs of self-harm and interrupt a cycle that might lead to suicide; which is the purpose of this study. Hussein (2009) noted that triangulation is a concept that is defined as the application of several qualitative and quantitative techniques in studying a common phenomenon for the sole purpose of increasing the credibility and validity of the study. The primary research will be conducted by means of an online self-administered survey.

In regard to the appropriateness of the approach, researchers have always argued that a good research practice often involves the utilization of multiple methods in order to enhance both the validity and reliability the research findings as indicated in the work of (Mathison, 1988).The choice of triangulation as the appropriate research design is inspired by the fact that helps in achieving improved clarity, research completeness and validity as noted by Fielding and Fielding (1986). According to Knafle and Gallo (1995), triangulation technique contributes to the overall quality of a research ‘only to the extent that it facilitates the achievement of some clearly articulated purpose’ (cited in Adami and Kiger, 2005). The convenience of triangulation in nursing research for confirmatory purposes is noted by Adami and Kiger (2005) to be heavily dependent on the principle that research should be a rigorous search for absolute and objective truth. Validity and completeness of findings on how nurses and other professionals can recognize signs of self-harm and interrupt a cycle that might lead to suicide are therefore our motivation for choosing triangulation technique for this study. The overarching objective of this study is to find ways of minimizing mortality and injury due to teenage self-harm and suicide among the American youths. This must be done with the highest level of clarity, validity and completeness that can only be achieved by means of triangulation.

C. Purpose of Research Proposal

Teenage mortality is an important public health issue because the majority of these deaths are preventable. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among adolescents and it is believed that 14 to 24 percent of teenagers have engaged in self-harm (NIH, 2008). Every two hours in the United States someone under the age of twenty four successfully commits suicide leaving behind a family and a community that is left to wonder why this has happened and also if there were measures that might have been able to prevent the death from happening (ASS, 2013). The purpose of this proposed study is to explore how nurses and other professionals can recognize signs of self-harm and interrupt a cycle that might lead to suicide. Research into how nurses and professionals are coping with this pandemic will be explored. An important question will be how assessment tools can identify at risk youths. Nurses from many fields work with adolescents; these include those who work in clinics, in hospitals, in schools and in psychiatric units. This proposal intends to provide an outlook on how this pandemic can be mitigated through the involvement of nurses and others who work with adolescents.

D. Role and Bias of Researcher

The role of the researcher in this study will be to investigate by means of credible sources and latest information, the role of nurse-assisted early detection of adolescent suicide and self-harm in order to interrupt the deadly cycle that leads to suicide. This would be done by the formulation of objective research question and following a research methodology that is accurate, valid and free of any bias.

Bias is defined by Sica (2006) to be a type of systematic error that can ultimately influence scientific investigations and hence distort the overall measurement process. Panucci and Wilkins (2010) noted that the identification and avoidance of bias is the sole responsibility of the researcher. In order to avoid researcher bias, I will ensure that I formulate research questions that are not too leading. As a researcher, I recognize that I will be interviewing nurses who have already had experience with young people who might be prone to self-harm or suicide. It will be necessary to develop a suitable survey to allow for those with different experiences to ensure that the data is without bias. The survey needs to be refined to eliminate bias from those who might have considerable experience with adolescents who have followed through from self-harm, to completion of suicide. A potential bias or error in the survey can be recognized by realizing that individuals with more experience who are interviewed would be more inclined to take adolescents threats more seriously than those with only casual experience who might hear the adolescents concerns but might see them as maneuvers to get attention from parents or school authorities.

E. Sampling Techniques

A random stratified sample of American Nursing Association (ANA) members will be drawn to ensure mix by state, organization type and number of years in the nursing profession. The only inclusion criterion is that one has to be an active duty registered nurse (RN).

E1. Appropriateness of Sampling Techniques

The sampling technique is highly appropriate for the purposes of the proposed study because stratified sampling provides samples that are highly representative of the population of interest .The choice of stratified random sampling for this research is informed by its ability to reduce all forms of human bias in the process of selecting participants to be included in the sample. As a consequence, stratified random sample can provide us with a study sample that is highly representative (Daniel, 2011, p.127). This technique also improves the degree of representation of certain groups within a given population (such as nurses who deal with stresses out teens). This means that it ensures that a given strata is not over-represented. This method reduces the sampling error since population statistics estimates are drawn from a known population. Our sampling will be of nurses and professionals working in the field to see if the appropriate tools are being used to identify those who are at the most risk. This would be a stratified sampling that will include professionals who have previous knowledge of adolescents through their own studies, personal lives and work experiences.

In the case of secondary data, the sources will be derived from peer-reviewed journal articles, books, whitepapers, personal experiences, online and offline articles, newspapers and conference papers. Only the most relevant and most credible sources will be included in this research. In order to choose the most relevant and credible secondary sources, an elaborate strategy aimed at authenticity, credibility, representativeness and meaning was used as described in the work of Scott (1990). All the sources will be evaluated for currency (must be up to date) (Stein, 2002).

F. Target Audience or Participants

The participants in this study will include active service Registered Nurses (RNs) who are also members of the American Nursing Association (ANA). The online survey will be carried out independently via the American Nursing Association (ANA) website ( HYPERLINK “http://www.nursingworld.org” www.nursingworld.org). Individual Registered Nurses (RNs) who access the site will be informed of the online survey via a bulletin that will seek their participation. The bulleting will contain a hyperlink to the online survey. All potential respondents will be advised that participation in the survey is absolutely voluntary, confidential and anonymous. They will also be given a chance of accepting or denying answering any of the presented questions. The important demographic details that will be collected are age, gender, job title, years of work in the occupation, organization type and state.

G. Hypothesis Statement

The most appropriate hypothesis statement for this proposed study is;

Hypothesis: If early nurse-assisted recognition of self-harm is used among teenagers, then an interruption of suicide cycle may be achieved which would then reduce suicide rates among teenagers.

References

Adami M.F., Kiger A. (2005) The Use f Triangulation For Completeness Purposes. Nurse

Researcher. 12(4): 19-29

Daniel,J (2011).Sampling Essentials: Practical Guidelines for Making Sampling Choices. SAGE

Hawton, K., Saunders, A., Kate, E., & O’Connor, R. C. (2012). Self-harm and Suicide in.

Adolescents. The Lancet, 373(9834), 2314-2333 Heath, N. L. & Toste, J. R. (2008, April). An examination of nonsuicidal self-injury among college students. Journal of Mental Health Counseling, 30(2), 137-143.

Hussein, A., (2009). The use of triangulation in social sciences research: Can qualitative and

quantitative methods be combined? Journal of Comparative Social Research, (1): 1-12.

Jackson, S. L. (2008). Research methods: A modular Approach. Ohio: Cengage Learning.Kerr, P., Muehlenkamp, J., & Turner, J. (2010, April 1). Nonsuicidal Self-Injury: A Review of Current Research for Family Medicine and Primary Care Physicians. Journal of the American Board of Family Nursing, 23(2), 240-259. Mathison, S., (1988). Why triangulate? Educational Researcher, 17(2): 13-19.

McIntosh, J. L., & Drapeau, C. W. (2012). USA suicide 2010: Official final data. American

Association of Suicidology. Retrieved from http://www.suicidology.org/c/document_ library/get_file?folderId=262&name=DLFE-636.pdf.

Neuman, W. L. (2003). Social research methods: Qualitative and quantitative approaches, 5th ed. New York: Allyn & Bacon.

National Institute of Mental health (2008). Suicide in the U.S.: Statistics and Prevention. NIH

Publication No. 06-4594. Accessed on 13th August, 2013 from HYPERLINK “http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/suicide-in-the-us-statistics-and-prevention/index.shtml” http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/suicide-in-the-us-statistics-and-prevention/index.shtml

Panucci,CJ ., Wilkins., EG (2010).Identifying and Avoiding Bias in Research. Plast Reconstr

Surg. 2010 August; 126(2): 619–625.

Peterson, J., Freedenthal, S., & Coles A. (2010). Adolescents who self-harm: How to protect them from themselves. Current Psychiatry, 9(8), 15-25.

Sica, G.T. (2006) Bias in research studies. Radiology, 238 (3) 780-9.

Stein. ,S (2002). Sociology on the web: a student guide

Storey, P. & Hurry, J. (2005, March). Supporting young people who repeatedly self-harm. The Journal of the Royal Society for the Promotion of Health, 125(2), 71-73.

Straus, M. (2006, July/August). The logic of self-injury: A teen symptom for our time. Psychotherapy Networker, 30(4), 37.

Adolescent’s cognitive processes

Cognitive processes are essential indicators of changes that are taking place in children development. For adolescents they include tendency to direct information towards the wrong direction, interpreting ambiguous information in a negative way and having low capabilities to control the behavior and emotions individually. These processes bring anxiety and depression in adolescents.

During cognitive development adolescents develop the ability to engage in abstract thinking. It is in adolescent that human beings develop the last cognitive process known as formal operational thought. This new of intellect is abstract, speculative, and does not depend on the surrounding environment and circumstances. This abstract thinking involves thinking about the possibilities and comparing the veracity with things which exist or not (Allal, Lucile & Pierre, 2004, 156).

This kind of development best explains why the teenagers often become interested in science fiction; develop interest in occult and fantasy. Adolescents get the ability to begin comparing what is to what they think could be making them become critical to parents and institutions. They become conscious of political and social injustice issues and want to complain. On the other side, they become so egocentric as a result of them being able to analyze their thoughts. They begin to assume that other people are fascinated as them selves. They fail to differentiate their main concerns with other peoples concerns. And they develop an imaginary audience and begin to imagine that other are continually after watching and making judgments on them. This makes them more self conscious (Allal, Lucile & Pierre, 2004, 176).

They develop a “personal fable” where they feel that they are so special and should be exempted from other ordinary laws of nature and that nothing bad will happen to them and that they are their to live forever. This makes them to engage in risky behaviors like drinking and driving, chewing tobacco and lying on the white lines on the road and having unprotected sex.

Works cited

Allal, Linda, Lucile Chanquoy & Pierre Largy. Revision: Cognitive and Instructional Processes. Norwell, MA: Kluwer Academic Publishers, 2004.

Adopting an international approach to the local market

Introduction

A firm becomes international when it extends its activities or manages to sell its products into overseas markets (Kessapidou & Varsakelis, 2002, p. 268). The more a firm is involved in overseas markets, the greater the level of internationalization. Successful internationalization process requires a firm to adapt effectively adapt to cultural settings of the target overseas markets through a process known as localization (Nordea, 2003, p. 68). The purpose of this paper is to examine the process of takeover of French breweries by Vechtel, a Dutch brewery, during its internationalization processes. First, the paper examines three phases that occurred after Vechtel took over a French company. It further observes the extent to which stereotyping is evident in the thoughts and words of the Jean-Pierre Courbet and Jaap Harmelen, and the impact that the culture of these two individuals had on the success of takeover of the French company. A brief comparison of the strategies adapted by Vechtel (Rotterdam HQ) and Brasseries Vechtel is given. An explanation is given of how these strategies are reconciled and how the two companies arrived at a common goal despite presence of differences in their respective national cultures. Finally, the paper explains how the overall process of internationalization of the Dutch company could have been improved. The purpose of including the above information is to identify cultural issues that organizations involved in international takeover may encounter and reflect how the cultural issues can be effectively managed to achieve success in the internationalization process.

Phases of internationalization

Three distinct phases of internalization occurred after Vechtel took over the French company. The first phase involved creation of atmosphere for cultural integration and effective communication. Vechtel made a radical restructuring of the management system. Some employees who had been working for the French company were dismissed and some replaced with experts from other Vechtel operating companies. However, some key positions remained with French employees, including Jean-Pierre Courbet’s position. Most of the key management personnel understood languages used by Dutch and French and thus, there were minimal communication problems. As Schraeder & Self (2003, p. 513) noted, this phase was necessary to reduce communication problems and to create atmosphere for cultural integration in the organization.

The second phase involved reorganization and integration of the functional structures and control systems. To deal with excessive financial number of breweries, deplorable set of financial figures and overlapping parts in the new organization, Vechtel closed some breweries and revised brand range. This step was essential to create identity of Vechtel as a brand within and outside the target market (Schraeder & Self, 2003, p. 513, & Riad, 2007, p. 41).

During the third phase, Vechtel evaluated the expected and actual outcomes of the acquisition. Based on past experience, Vechtel revised the management structure through consultations, which increased involvement of Dutch employees in the organization. The Dutch chief executive in the French branch, Jaap Harmelen, was replaced with a Dutch, Jean-Pierre Courbet. This phase helped to further enhance compatibility between the cultures of Vechtel and French company. Generally, the three phases were essential in establishing cultural fitness between the two merging companies. Poor culture fit may contribute to failure of mergers and acquisitions that appear to be suitable and strategic as in the case of the merger between Monsanto and American Home Products which failed due to difficulties in trying to integrate the diverse cultures (Schraeder & Self, 2003, p. 513; Stahl & Voigt, 2004, p. 53).

Extent of stereotypes in the thoughts and the words of Jean-Pierre Courbet and Jaap Harmelen

The thoughts and words of Jean-Pierre Courbet and Jaap Harmelen in the case study shows that they has preconceived notions about the cultures of both Vechtel and the French company. Jean-Pierre Courbet felt that after the acquisition of the French company, Vechtel was most likely going to fire key French management personnel and replace them with Dutch employees, as the company had done in Spain. He thought that among other problems, this would lead to communication problems as in the case of Vechtel headquarters in Spain where key figures in management used interpreters. He thought that the dismissal of Dutch employees would lead to upheavals for the new company.

Though Courbet was a key player in the takeover of French company, he felt that Vetchel would likely do away with him just like it had done in Spain. Given that the takeover in France was pushed by the son of the founder of Vetchel Brewery, Courbet felt that this single reason significantly reduced the chances of the new company to succeed. As he expressed during a meeting with chief executive Jaap Harmelen, Courbet felt that Vechtel was going to interfere with operations of Inter-HRC, a distribution company whose sales included products of Vechtel competitors, as it had done in Spain. Generally, Courbet had a view that Vetchel was likely going to apply a poor strategy as it had applied in Spain, which would result in failure.

Jaap Harmelen was a chief executive of Brasseries Unies, after which he became a board member for Vechtel. During the deliberation for Vechtel to take over French Schaefer brewery, Jaap Harmelen expressed that he had developed confidence in Courbet and for this reason, gave backing and support to Courbet plans. Thus, he had preconceived notions regarding Courbet’s capabilities.

Effect of cultures of Jean-Pierre Courbet and Jaap Harmelen

The cultures of Jean-Pierre Courbet and Jaap Harmelen played a significant role in the successful internationalization process. Though Jean-Pierre Courbet was suspicious of Vechtel’s intentions, he embraced the change and was ready to commit his efforts for successful integration process. He was ready to give his opinions and advice that would lead to successful integration. Similarly, Jaap Harmelen’s culture enhanced the integration process. As indicated in the case study, the French works were suspicious of the intentions of the new owners. However, Jaap Harmelen a Dutch chief executive turned out to be friendly, respectful to French culture and he displayed dignity and sagacity

Culture simply refers to values and norms held and shared by a group of persons or deeply held by an individual (Stahl & Voigt, 2004, p. 53). The full strength of culture is seen when divergent cultures are forced to become one as in the case of organizational mergers and acquisitions (Thach & Nyman, 2001, p. 147 & Schraeder & Self, 2003, p. 516). Thus, it is an important element of mergers and acquisitions and as Lodorfos & Boateng (2006) noted that it can be a make or break factor in the merger or acquisition equation. In fact, according to Lodorfos & Boateng (2006), a quarter of the mergers and acquisitions that take place fail as a result of difficulties in integrating the different organizational cultures. Thus, management of effective “human factor” in mergers and acquisitions is one of the most important aspects that lead to successful transition. Thus, the culture of Jean-Pierre Courbet and Jaap Harmelen had a huge impact on the on the success of takeover by Vechtel of the French company.

Strategies of Vechtel (Rotterdam HQ) and the Brasseries Vechtel (Lyons)

Both Vechtel (Rotterdam HQ) and the Brasseries Vechtel (Lyons) focused strengthening the Vechtel brand in France. However, their approaches to realize this objective were different with Vechtel (Rotterdam HQ) adapting an internationalization strategy while Brasseries Vechtel (Lyons) adapted localization strategy. After the takeover of the French company, Vechtel (Rotterdam HQ) restructured the new company to remove the overlapping parts. Some French employees from the acquired company were dismissed but some retained key management positions. Some of the dismissed French nationalists were replaced with experts from operating companies belonging to Vechtel. After takeover, Vechtel (Rotterdam HQ) strategy involved revising of brand range and restructuring structural and systems. Generally, Vechtel (Rotterdam HQ) was pursuing an internationalization strategy (Trompenaars & Woolliams, 2003, p. 29; Pahl & Richter, 2009, p. 11).

On the other hand, Brasseries Vechtel (Lyons) was pursuing localization strategy. Brasseries Vechtel (Lyons) Strategy did not focus on complete integration with the acquired company. After it acquired Schaeffer breweries together with its subsidiaries, Schaeffer, remained as a separate operating entity but under an umbrella of inter-hold. Brasseries Vechtel (Lyons) offered to purchase Schaeffer and its subsidiary but they would retain local human resources, manufacturing process, brands and local supplier networks among others. Brasseries Vechtel (Lyons) move is called localization strategy (Trompenaars & Woolliams, 2003, p. 29; Pahl & Richter, 2009, p. 11).

How the Internationalization and localization strategies are reconciled

An internationally operating company cannot deny or regret the existence of international diversity, but as Hill & Jones, (2009, p. 131) argued, this should be regarded as an opportunity that can be exploited. Each country’s unique circumstances will pose different challenges requiring the development of different competencies. Different national climates create different opportunities for different innovations. Thus, if a firm adopts an internationalization strategy and taps into the target country’s opportunities, and leverage the acquired competencies, this can open opportunities and form a source of competitive advantage (Hill & Jones, 2009, p. 131; Carleton & Lineberry, 2004, p. 329). Naturally, these locally leveraged competencies and innovations would subsequently need to be adapted to specific circumstances in other countries.

This balancing act requires an organization to adapt a strategy that will optimally match the tastes and preferences of the target market in a foreign country (Hill & Jones, 2009, p. 131). Localization is the most appropriate strategy in such a case. This requires localization of strategic decision, products, R&D, use of local supplier networks, deployment of local human resources, localization of corporate image and adaptations to local manufacturing processes among others (Appelbaum, et al, 2007, p. 195; Hill & Jones, 2009, p. 132). After successful localization strategy, a firm can then translate the advantages gained into completive internationalization strategy.

How Vechtel (Rotterdam HQ) and the Brasseries Vechtel (Lyons) arrived at a common goal

Despite the differences in their respective national cultures, Vechtel (Rotterdam HQ) and the Brasseries Vechtel (Lyons) managed to arrive at a common goal. After negotiations, Vechtel managed to purchase majority of the shares of Schaeffer held by specific families involved. This helped to meet Brasseries Vechtel (Lyons) localization target. Vechtel further offered to purchase the rest of the shares that were held by the public. An agreement was reached and eventually, they were transferred to Vechtel. That way, Vechtel (Rotterdam HQ) achieved its objective of acquiring more companies and increasing its command in the global brewery market. Thus, Brasseries Vechtel (Lyons) achieved its localization goals while Vechtel (Rotterdam HQ) achieved its goal to expand globally.

Making Brasseries Vechtel/ Vechtel Rotterdam more international

For Brasseries Vechtel/ Vechtel Rotterdam to become more international, it needs to continue strengthening Vechtel brand through buying more local brewers in France as well as in other nations (Hill & Jones, 2009, p. 132 & Appelbaum, et al, 2000, p. 654). As noted earlier, Vechtel should focus on adapting localization strategy in overseas nations. After localization strategy is successful, Vechtel can translate the obtained advantages into completive internationalization strategy. That way, Vechtel will become more international.

Shortening/Improving the first phase

The first phase involved restructuring of management systems to create atmosphere for cultural integration and effective communication. This phase could have been shortened or improved. Differences in organizational cultures and management structures are usually obvious and can be examined prior to initializing the takeover process (Trompenaars & Asser, 2010, p. 78 & Schein, 1990, p. 113). The differences recognized need to be acknowledged and incorporated into the pre-integration negotiations (Shook & Roth, (2011, p. 150). Thus, Vechtel could have reduced the first phase by examining the differences in culture and management structure with the French company and make agreement during negotiation on how the new situation would look like. Employees to be dismissed should have been determined during negotiations stage and their benefits be agreed on. This would have helped to shorten and improved the first phase.

The takeover of Schaeffer

The process of take over of Schaeffer was optimal. According to Marks (1997, p. 271) once a target has been selected for alliance or acquisition and an appropriate takeover process has been agreed on, the task facing the acquiring company is to maximize benefits from the process. The most important ingredient to success in such a case is sensitivity to cultural differences (Marks, 1997, p. 271 & Ulijn, J., (2010, p. 136). There are many differences especially in management style which are attributable to cultural differences. Managers thus need to make allowances for those differences in dealing with their target organization. In order to maximize benefits from the alliance, it is also essential to build trust with the partner and make allowance to learn from them.

This lesson can be drawn from successful strategic alliance between Ford and Mazda as described by Tallman, (2007, p. 56). Managers of these companies engaged in meetings where they discussed not only matters pertaining to the alliance, but also took time to know each other better (Tallman, 2007, p. 56). Thus, successful takeover process of Schaefer by Vechtel, needed to incorporate the aforementioned aspects. Vechtel managers and experts set up framework of meetings with Schaefer executives, where they managed to build trust and facilitate harmonious relationship between the two firms. Eventually, Vechtel managed to purchase all Schaefer shares and those of its subsidiary, including those that were held by the public. Thus, the takeover process of Schaeffer adapted by Vechtel to was the best for that case.

Influential elements in the process of takeover

There are various cultural elements that are influential in the process of takeover. One of these is the willingness on part of the target organization to embrace the vision and strategy of the acquiring firm (Buono & Bowditch, 2003, p. 142 & Gleich, et al, 2010, p. 10). Assessing how the key strategic personnel, who are business drivers of the target entity, will be retained or guaranteed continuity is also essential. It is vital to assess barriers that may exist to the emerging culture that might inhibit successful implementation strategies. Another important element is a communication plan which should be adopted to eliminate or reduce the likely incidence of anxiety to the change (Lejeune & Vas, 2009, p. 738). National culture also influences the process of takeover. Generally, there is need to asses whether the culture of the target organization and is compatible with the culture of the acquiring firm.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the process of internationalization takes lace when a firm manages to sell its products in overseas markets successfully. The three phases of internationalization that after Vechtel took over the French company are; restructuring of the management system, integration of the functional structures and control systems and revision of the management structure through consultations. Jean-Pierre Courbet and Jaap Harmelen expressed preconceived notions in their thoughts and words with regard to the process of takeover of French companies by Vechtel. The cultures of these two individuals facilitated the successful takeover of French company by Vechtel.

Though both Vechtel (Rotterdam HQ) and the Brasseries Vechtel (Lyons) focused strengthening the Vechtel brand in France, their strategies were different with Vechtel (Rotterdam HQ) adapting an international strategy while Brasseries Vechtel (Lyons) adapted localization strategy. These two strategies can be recognized pursuing a successful localization strategy and then translating the advantages gained into completive internationalization strategy. After adopting a successful localization and internationalized strategies, Brasseries Vechtel (Lyons) and Vechtel (Rotterdam HQ) managed to arrive at a common goal. Brasseries Vechtel/ Vechtel Rotterdam can become more international through buying more brewers in overseas nation and adopting optimal internationalization strategies.

The first phase of internationalization after the takeover of French company by Vechtel could have been shortened or improved through examining difference in cultures and management systems and incorporate these into pre-integration negotiations. The strategy adopted Vechtel to take over Schaeffer was optimal and thus, it was the best. As mentioned, various cultural elements are influential in the process of organizational take over including the difference in vision and strategy, treatment of key management personal, barriers of the immerging culture to implementation and communication plan that should be adopted.

References

Appelbaum, S. H., Gandell, J., Yortis, H., Proper, S. & Jobin, F., (2000) “Anatomy of a merger: behavior of organizational factors and processes throughout the pre- during- post-stages (part 1)”, Management Decision, Vol. 38 Issue: 9, pp.649 – 662

Appelbaum, S. H., Lefrancois, F., Tonna, R. & Shapiro, B. T., (2007) “Mergers 101 (part two): training managers for culture, stress, and change challenges”, Industrial and Commercial Training, Vol. 39 Issue: 4, pp.191 – 200

Buono, A. F. & Bowditch, J. L., (2003, p. 142), The Human Side of Mergers and Acquisitions: Managing Collisions Between People, Cultures, and Organizations, Beard Books, Washington D. C

Carleton, J. R & Lineberry, C. S., (2004), Achieving post-merger success: a stakeholder’s guide to cultural due diligence, assessment, and integration, John Wiley & Sons, London

Gleich, R., Kierans, G. & Hasselbach, T., (2010), Value in Due Diligence: Contemporary Strategies for Merger and Acquisition Success, Gower Publishing, Burlington

Hill, C. & Jones, G, (2009), Strategic Management Theory: An Integrated Approach, Cengage Learning, London

Kessapidou, S. & Varsakelis, N. C., (2002) “The impact of national culture on international business performance: the case of foreign firms in Greece”, European Business Review, Vol. 14 Iss: 4, pp. 268 – 275

Lejeune, C. & Vas, A., (2009) “Organizational culture and effectiveness in business schools: a test of the accreditation impact”, Journal of Management Development, Vol. 28 Iss: 8, pp.728 – 741

Lodorfos, G. & Boateng, A., (2006), “The role of culture in the merger and acquisition process: Evidence from the European chemical industry”, Management Decision, Vol. 44 Issue: 10, pp.1405 – 1421

Marks, M. L., (1997) “Consulting in mergers and acquisitions: Interventions spawned by recent trends”, Journal of Organizational Change Management, Vol. 10 Issue: 3, pp.267 – 279

Nordea, (2003), merging across borders: people, cultures and politics, Copenhagen Business School Press DK, Copenhagen

Pahl, N. & Richter, A., (2009), International Strategic Alliances and Cross-Border Mergers & Acquisitions, GRIN Verlag, Norderstedt

Riad, S., (2007), “Of mergers and cultures: What happened to shared values and joint assumptions?” Journal of Organizational Change Management Vol. 20 Issue: 1, pp. 26-43

Schein, E.H., (1990), Organizational culture” American Psychologist, Vol. 45 Issue: 2, pp. 109-119.

Schraeder, M. & Self, D. R., (2003) “Enhancing the success of mergers and acquisitions: an organizational culture perspective”, Management Decision, Vol. 41 Issue 5, pp.511 – 522

Shook, L. & Roth, G., (2011), “Downsizings, mergers, and acquisitions,” Journal of European Industrial Training, Vol. 35, Issue 2, pp. 135-153

Stahl, G. K. & Voigt, A., (2004), Impact of cultural differences on merger and acquisition performance: a critical research review and an integrative model, in (ed.) 4 (Advances in Mergers & Acquisitions, Volume 4), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, pp.51-82

Tallman, S. B., (2007), A new generation in international strategic management, Edward Elgar Publishing, Cheltenham

Thach, L. & Nyman, M. (2001) “Leading in limbo land: the role of a leader during merger and acquisition transition”, Leadership & Organization Development Journal, Vol. 22 Iss: 4, pp.146 – 150

Trompenaars, F. & Asser, M. N, (2010), The Global M&A Tango: How to Reconcile Cultural Differences in Mergers, Acquisitions and Strategic Partnerships, Infinite Ideas, Cengage Learning, London

Ulijn, J., (2010, p. 136), Strategic alliances, mergers and acquisitions: the influence of culture on successful cooperation, Edward Elgar Publishing, Cheltenham

Trompenaars, A. & Woolliams, P., (2003, p. 29), Business across cultures, John Wiley & Sons, London

Introducing New Technology in Nursing

Name

Institution

Adoption of New Technology Systems

Introducing a new technology in an already functioning industrial system can be a breathtaking task, contrary to the common belief and assumption that a new technology barely means improvement in efficiency (Markgraf, 2013). Being a nurse responsible for the processes that involve introduction of a new electronic health record keeping system (EHRs), one must be really gifted in terms of change management, public relations, and devising a working convincing framework (van Djik, 2004; Waddell, 2004). There is no short cut in this role: such a nurse must have all it takes, particularly as it regards the five qualities embedded in the Roger’s

(2003) theory, namely: relative advantage; the new technology’s compatibility with the old means; technology simplicity; its trialability; and capacity of the new technology to give out observable results. Definitely, as the leader nurse who is bestowed the role of seeing to it that the other workmates embrace the new EHRs technology; I would utilize the Rogers’ proposed qualities as my foundation (Waddell, 2004).

For the uniting role, the first quality, the relative advantage of the new technology, would be my first focus. Before approaching and addressing other employees about the benefits of the new technology, I would first of all study and comprehend the new technology (Markgraf, 2013) so that I derive a stiff convincing framework (Van Djik, 2004). In other words, the other members of the staff must be so much used to the old technology that insufficient knowledge about the new technology would not simply work (Waddell, 2004). I would thereafter prepare a “demo model” that actively shows how the new system will make the work easier. Such a demo would be, for example, a presentation of animated slides with clear cut comparisons of the workability of the new technology with that of the old way of doing things (Markgraf, 2013). Things like advantages and disadvantages tutorials must be in place; for example that the EHRs are more efficient in retrieving data of a particular patient than the would-be case with manual filing system. Similarly, with the new technology nurses will be in a better position to multitask and as well as have an expert opinion in nursing cases exhibiting legal ,ethical ,and practice challenges, unlike with the old system (Van Djik, 2004).

In the meantime, the second Rogers quality would pops in, and here I would critically analyze and recognize first to what extent the new EHR system will perform the same work the old one performed (Rogers, 2003). A similar demo framework would be incorporated to explain that the new system would be used not to change the nature of activities but to simplify them. This would presumably make the audience readily understand the benefits of the new system and embrace them. Simultaneously, the third Rogers quality, simplicity, would be taken into account: Like before, I would first learn and master how to use the new technology before I can prepare its use means tutorial for the audience, the workers. This would help me gain enough confidence to be able to answer even the toughest questions correctly without contradicting myself. In other words, it would be appropriate for me to understand how the entire mechanism of the new EHRs technology works so as to effectively introduce others to it (Markgraf, 2013).

For the fourth quality, I would prepare the technological specimens and make sure each worker is seated by a computer so that I can engage them step by step to the new technology. The whole exercise would need to be practical and real for the reason that it would be introduced and applied from the present to the future. It would be appropriate for the workers to practically experience hands-on-work on the new technology before actually using it industrially (Rogers, 2003). Before meeting the nurses, as advocated in Rogers fifth quality, I would also collect pertinent information from the places where the new technology has worked and proven to more efficient that our old system in order to provide a real life example and in turn learn from them of any possible mishaps. This would be important for me to drive the point home that the new system works better than our old system (Waddell, 2004).

Rogers’s five proposed qualities are a key guideline for any leader preparing for such a role as introducing the new technology in a continuing industry. With the qualities in hand, I suppose I would easily introduce any new ideology in an organization with high hopes of success (Rogers, 2003).In particular, the five qualities gives the responsible leader numerous ideas for proper preparation of say a speech and, in the long run, such a person cannot easily falter while explaining the phenomenon in context. Certainly, I recommend that every nurse potential to be a leader should learn the Rogers five qualities because these qualities are applicable while introducing any new ideology in the field of nursing or any other field (Van Djik, 2004). But there are various challenges like resistance by some workers. For such challenges, I would note the problems and address them directly. Alternatively, I could arrange for collection of the questions as regards the new technology as the meeting goes on and address them one by one in the end. Better still, I could invite external experts who would help me solve some of the complaints by the resistant workers and inform them that change is inevitable and it’s not a choice (Markgraf, 2013).

References

Markgraf, B. (2013). How to Introduce New Technology to an Organization. Hearst Communications, Inc. Accessed on 08/10/2013 from <http://smallbusiness.chron.com/introduce-new-technology-organization-41307.html>

Rogers, E. M. (2003). Diffusion of innovations (5th ed.). New York, NY: Free Press.

Van Dijk, T.A. (2004). Ideology and Discourse – a Multidisciplinary Introduction. Barcelona: Pompeu Fabra University.

Waddell, J.P. (2004). The Introduction of New Technology. Canadian Journal of surgery, 47(4): 246–247

Admission Essay: Transfer to New York University

Quality education is important because of its ability to broaden one’s way of thinking and equip the same with vital skills for survival. This realization played a critical role in influencing my decision to pursue higher education after completion of my high school. The urge to assume a leadership position in future made me to settle for a business administration course that would enable me to achieve this goal. In order to be globally competitive, it was imperative to seek oversea education that was relatively of higher quality. Thus I secured a chance at Northern Virginia Community College to pursue business administration. The experience broadened my way of thinking and exposed me to various opportunities.

However, my dream had always been to pursue higher education in the most renowned institution of higher learning. As indicated earlier, I believe the quality of education is instrumental in enabling one to be more competitive. This can only be guaranteed in institutions that have a proven record of providing the same. It is for this reason that I am applying for a transfer to New York University. Notably, its Stern School of Business has been accredited for providing quality and leadership oriented education.

A recent national survey ascertains that the institution ranks among the top fifteen in the country. Its graduates dominate the international sphere with regard to leadership. Moreover, the institution has excelled in co curricula activities and accommodates students from diverse social, economic, racial and cultural backgrounds. The close relationship between the students and the teaching staff in undertaking vital research contributes significantly to broadening the knowledge base of the students.

I feel that my educational goals can be effectively met at this institution because of the fact that it offers innovative programs that are comprehensive and creative in nature. In particular, they are tailored and designed to meet the diverse and dynamic needs of the commercialized world. I strongly feel that this is a fundamental attribute of quality education. Thus attending this institution would enable me to attain the critical creative skills that are needed for adaptation in the changing world. Further, the institution has excellent facilities as well as resources. These are vital in molding informed individuals that would fit in the society on completion of higher education.

The opportunity to study at this institution would also give me a chance to interact with persons from diverse backgrounds at different levels. This interaction is vital in preparing me for challenges in the job market. At this juncture, it should be appreciated that the international environment is highly diversified and therefore very challenging. Also, its internship programs would expose me to actual job environments that characterize the international community. Of great importance however is the fact that the institution seeks to inculcate effective communication and critical thinking skills in its students. These are imperative in development of good leadership skills that are basic for effective administration.

Name

Course

Institution

Instructor

Date

Alternative Dispute Resolution

ADR (alternative dispute resolution) refers to methods that are adopted in seeking for solutions on legal disputes without use of litigation but by adopting such means as the negotiation, arbitration as well as mediation (Anon, 68-76). Among other legal disputes solved through the ADR are disputes on contracts, environment, insurance, security, labor, international trade and technology.

Negotiation:

This method involves the informal interaction between disputing parties with an intention of settling on the disputes and may involve a lawyer or not. It is to be noted that this process does not acknowledge the involvement of a third party (even neutral such as a judge or a jury). Two main approaches involved in negotiation are adversarial negotiation as well as problem solving approach. In adversarial approach, the warring parties seek solution through negotiation with a motive of maximizing own gain whereas in problem solving approach, joint gain is sought by parties involved. Though the method is discussed as an independent tool for solving disputes, it is often used before adoption of formal method(s) to solve a dispute and is such a case, negotiation is not perceived as an alternate to litigation processes.

Mediation:

In mediation, unlike the case with negotiation, a neutral person is a characteristic feature and is involved in facilitation of communication between the parties while at the same time offering suggestions to possible ways of solving the dispute at hand. As an expertise, the neutral person chosen (mediator) is often chosen by the consent of the warring parties. The main feature of the process is having the mediator assist each side listen to the other in a dispute. Persuasion is a mandatory character for the mediator in order to have the deliberation on the various solutions sighted and the process is concluded after the parties involved unanimously accept a solution after which the decision is put into writing and signed into by all the parties. Collective bargaining issues are main examples to disputes which adopt mediation as a tool for solution where the conflicting parties (like employees) must work together even after the dispute. It is to be noted that though mediation is adopted as an alternative to litigation, the main reason for its adoption is usually to avoid court procedures.

Arbitration:

This tool of solving disputes is explained by the use of a neutral third party and outside of court system to find a solution to a dispute. It has a distinguishing feature in that parties involved in arbitration are in contracts and they assume the role of a judge though not as constrained by precedents and the arbitrator’s role is finding a solution which is legally binding. The process therefore assumes like procedures like those ones used in trials though the rules applied in the process of arbitration are a little relaxed than in a legal trial. However, it is also noted that the choice of an arbitrator is a process that involves both parties involved in the dispute. Efficiency and low costs involved in arbitration makes the main advantages sighted for its use as against litigation.

In conclusion, this paper discusses the three main ADR tools, which are negotiation, mediation as well as arbitration, and shows their applicability instead of adopting litigation methods of solving disputes. The paper orders/ranks the tools according to value where negotiation comes first, followed by mediation and finally arbitration. This rank is based on ease of use, costs incurred as well as time involved where negotiation become fundamentally the most easy tool in cost and time to be used. On the other hand, arbitration process is time consuming and often expensive in awarding the arbitrator hence the last rank.

Works cited

Anonymous, “Chapter 4: Alternative dispute resolution”. Part 1, The legal Environment of Business. nd. Print.

Admission Essay: Zoology

It seems to me and perhaps in my learning vocation, that learning itself is a procedure that defines itself as it goes on. More precisely, choices present themselves as education continues to move forward and this serves in encouraging more detailed trail. Student fundamentally comes to learn what they mainly want to study and for me, I have realized what I want to study due to my growing interest in Zoology.

One cannot easily explain what creates an attraction or enthusiasm for a specific kind of learning because there are several elements involved in learning. On a certain level, and even during my high school career, I realized that I possessed an aptitude for zoology. Knowledge regarding zoology comes to me more smoothly and I have retained the knowledge for a long time and very successfully. This is an advantage to me and this advantage has off course tied me to instinctive delight of studying zoology.

From my own point of view, there is a cycle that has already been set in motion in my life and the study of zoology time after time whets my craving for more of the same. A student who pursues any subject should have a sense of rightness and follow his or her dreams. From my own point of view, I interpret to an instinctive consciousness that zoology is a discipline to which I can considerably donate, as long as I recognize the amount of energy and study required by the work.

I have gained knowledge in Zoology as far as education is concerned. First I have acquired Masters of Science in Zoology from the University of Tripoli and secondly, I possess a Bachelor of Science in Zoology from the same university making me very much informed as far as the field is concerned. Apart from the basic knowledge I acquired in school, I have also gained some experience by working in the same field. I first worked as a teacher in Microbiology lab in an Agricultural college based in Tripoli, then I went to a veterinary school where I worked as a teacher in Parasitological lab, after working at the veterinary college, I worked as a lab technician in Emitiga Hospital, I also taught Biology in Al Asma high school, taught Microbiology classes in a Nursing collage and finally taught Histology and Microbiology at the Faculty of Higher Institute for Medical Professions. Doing all these jobs made me gain more experience and added to what I already knew.

On a more practical level, writing my thesis also established that I had the curiosity of pursuing a zoology career. When I completed my undergraduate studies, I had a sentiment that doing sensible researches in zoology would give me better standpoint on my PhD school. I therefore started securing positions that would award me experiences not only in the academic world but also in my future career. I did my researches in places like, Agricultural research center which is based in Tripoli, Libya and here I was a research participants; I carried my research on potato tuber moth biological control.

Zoology is an extremely huge field of study. My enthusiasm for zoology does to bar me from seeing the fact that brilliance inside an individual can only be accomplished via detailed focuses on detailed components. I am still not aware of what this will bring for me. I am so much surprised by the manner in which zoology is seen as an essential science in the current understanding of extinction rates and species and these factors goes to important environmental concerns. I am also interested in studying the manner in which evolution takes place.

Modern technologies and insights are capturing facts of evolution taking place around us and also in various species. The only thing I can state with great confidence is that, multiple sciences revolving around zoology are where I have placed my ambitions. I am very sure this is true because, in the field of zoology, I am very eager to begin by discovering how much there is to gain more knowledge.

Adult Development and Life Assessment

Author

Institution

Introduction

Psychologists have always been preoccupied with matters pertaining to the influences on people’s development and come up with varied theories and models over the same. The ecological theory, posited by Urie Bronfenbrenner, states that an individual’s development is shaped by varied things including culture, family and society at large (Fancher, 1985). Looking at my life, I would attribute my shy behavior especially in talking to boys to the absence of my dad. I never got to know exactly what the best way for communicating with them would be, or even issues that would be of interest to them. On the same note, many are times when my parents would quarrel or even fight over small issues. They ended up separating a few years ago, something that affected my self-esteem tremendously. However, the effects were more pronounced in the first year, and my self-esteem is increasing with time. While both genetic makeup and environment have a role to play in my development, I must admit that the environment has played a considerably greater role. Genetic makeup may, undoubtedly, increase the likelihood than an individual will behave in a certain way, but their experiences and values imparted by the environment determine how they view and react to situations (Fancher, 1985). This explains why identical twins, despite having similar genetic makeup, will react differently in instances where they grow in different environments.

Question 2.

Holland’s theory or career choice outlined six personality types. I feel that the personality type that fits me is the “investigative personality”. An individual with investigative personality enjoys solving science or mathematics problems and places a high value on intellectual or scientific jobs. I have always enjoyed solving puzzles especially as pertaining to human relationships. I hope to become a lawyer in the future, in which case my personality type is in line with my future career prospects. Career satisfaction affects self-image in that it determines the value that an individual assigns to a career and consequently on himself (Fancher, 1985). If an individual is not satisfied or unpleased with the outcome of his job, he or she is likely to place a low value both on the job and on himself, which affects his self-image and esteem (Fancher, 1985).

References

Fancher, R. E. (1985). The intelligence men: Makers of the IQ controversy. New York: W. W. Norton & Company

(Name)

(Instructors’ name)

(Course)

(Date)

Admission Essay, my interest in mechanical engineering

There are many careers, which one may choose to pursue, once they are through with high school. I believe that by training to become a mechanical engineer, I will have achieved one of the goals in my life. A few years back, while watching television, I viewed a documentary on mechanical engineering, and it inspired me. It focused upon the career of Mr. Kountouras, who currently, advises the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. He has done a lot to help students who are pursuing a course in mechanical engineering. In fact, he responsible for the success of the Robotic Competition, and this took place in America, in the year 1997. As I watched and heard of his success, it clearly dawned on me that this would be the career path I would follow.

It is a fact that while, in high school, one is not taught mechanical engineering, but I have various sources where I derive my inspiration. I have always been fascinated by the manner, which machines work. Also, the need to find out how various machines are manufactured, developed, as well as designed. As a young child, I would often find myself dismantling my toys to discover more about them. I would get in trouble with my parents as the toys they bought would not last for long. Currently, I am taking courses in physics and mathematics, and my grades can attest that I can take up on mechanical engineering, as a major in college. Most of the people who know me have knowledge concerning my computer expertise. In turn, I am confident this will be an advantage, in having a mechanical engineering career. I believe that I have a future in mechanical engineering, as I am quite creative. Moreover, I always have an urge to build devices, which are tangible.

I am a firm believer about working in teams as, throughout high school, I participated in various projects with my classmates. Mechanical engineers have to work in teams most times, as this approach is useful in engineering development and design. Furthermore, I am disciplined and one with leadership capabilities. These qualities make me an ideal candidate for consideration for admission at the college to study mechanical engineering. By gaining admission, I will obtain vital information regarding, which sector to specialize in. By being a mechanical engineer, I will engage in projects, which will help mankind. At the same time, ensure that all my projects are ethical, and they contribute positively to society. The pay, which mechanical engineers, get for their hard work is another motivation, for choosing to be a mechanical engineer. After am through with my undergraduate studies, I wish to pursue a Doctorate and Masters degree. This will assist in progressing in the career of mechanical engineering at a higher level.

In conclusion, I am confident that, by gaining admission into the college, I will work hard towards achieving success. My teachers as well as other credible people whom I have interacted with will provide the reference needed. This is a valuable opportunity, which will assist me towards attaining my goals. In turn, I will work hard, so as to be a highly recognized mechanical engineer. Indeed, I hope you consider me for admission, and I thank you in advance for this marvelous opportunity.