The Canterbury Cathedral Essay Example For Students

The Canterbury Cathedral Essay For at least fourteen hundred years the worship of God has been offered on the site of this Cathedral, and through the prayers of the Church his power and grace have shaped human lives. Ever since the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in the Cathedral in 1170, Canterbury has attracted thousands of pilgrims. This tradition continues to this day, and a large team of Welcomers, Guides, Cathedral Assistants and Chaplains are there to give all visitors a warm welcome. The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Christ Canterbury is a holy place of pilgrimage, founded by St Augustine for the worship of Almighty God and the honour of Christ our Saviour. It is the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Primate of all England and President of the worldwide Anglican Communion of Churches. The first Archbishop of Canterbury was St Augustine who arrived on the coast of Kent as a missionary to England in 597 AD. He came from Rome, sent by Pope Gregory the Great. The story goes that Gregory had seen Angle slaves for sale in the city market and struck by their beauty, had remarked not Angles but Angels. We will write a custom essay on The Canterbury Cathedral specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now Such a people he was convinced should be converted to Christianity, and ordered Augustine and a group of monks to set out for England. On his arrival Augustine was given a church at Canterbury by the local King Ethelbert whose Queen, Bertha, was already a Christian. This building had been a place of worship during the Roman occupation of Britain. Soon consecrated Bishop, Augustine established his seat (or cathedra) in this place as the first Archbishop of Canterbury. The present archbishop, George Carey, is 103rd in the line of succession. Until the 10th century the Cathedral community was a family of clergy, living a regulated life as the household of the Archbishop. Not until 998 do we find evidence that they were living by the Rule of St. Benedict as a formal monastic community. The Benedictine community of monks continued until the monastery was dissolved in 1540. The next year a new Foundation, called the Dean and Chapter, was constituted by Royal Charter. Today there is a Dean and four Residentiary Canons in the Chapter, who, with the Precentor, make up the establishment of full-time clergy. Canterbury Cathedral is linked to the lives of many great ecclesiastical and national figures. Among the former are the Saints of Canterbury – Augustine, Theodore, Odo, Dunstan, Alphege, Anselm, Thomas and Edmund all of whom were Archbishops of Canterbury and held in universal respect. The one who became most famous of all was Thomas Becket, who was murdered in his cathedral on 29 December 1170. Appointed by his King and friend, Henry II, to bring the Church to the heel of the monarchy, he did the reverse. He espoused its rights in the face of the King’s desire to control them. Four knights, with their own agendas of complaint, thinking to ingratiate themselves with the King, came to Canterbury and killed the Archbishop in his own Cathedral. In the Reformation period Canterbury had a series of distinguished Archbishops, among them Thomas Cranmer, who compiled the first two Prayer Books and established what was to become the liturgical tradition of the Church of England and Anglican Churches the world over. Cardinal Pole was Archbishop during the reign of Mary I, the period of the Catholic Restoration, and Matthew Parker and John Whitgift were the greatest of Elizabeth I’s Archbishops. With the Civil War, the Cathedral was sacked by the Puritans (1642), the Cathedral Chapter was dissolved, and it was not until the restoration of the monarchy in 1660 that the Church of England was re-established and life returned to the Cathedral. The fabric was repaired, the daily services were resumed and Chapter re-established. Few changes occurred until the middle of the nineteenth century, when a series of energetic Archbishops and equally vigorous Deans, began a transformation of the life of the Cathedral. The twentieth century has seen a major restoration of the Cathedral fabric, the revival of pilgrimage (now on ecumenical lines), a re-ordering of liturgical services and a great renaissance of the Cathedral’s music. Outstanding among Archbishops has been William Temple, and Deans with international reputations have been George Bell, Dick Sheppard and Hewlett Johnson (the Red Dean). In 1982 Pope John Paul II visited Canterbury and with Archbishop Robert Runcie prayed at the site of S. Thomas Becket’s martyrdom. The Great Cloister When Canterbury was a Benedictine monastery, the Cloister was the centre of the administration of its daily life. Around the square, and in buildings off on each side, the young monks were trained, the domestic arrangements were made and the Community met. The Cloister was laid out by Archbishop Lanfranc in the 11th century and its dimensions have remained unchanged. Remains of the renovation undertaken in the 13th century are to be seen and the present Cloister was finished in 1414. A notable feature is the heraldry arguably the finest catalogue of medieval coats of arms to be found. The Nave The Nave, built in the Perpendicular style, was completed in 1405, replacing an earlier Romanesque Nave built by Archbishop Lanfranc some 330 years earlier. Its soaring arches draw the eye upward towards the central crossing at its Eastern end, and the steps leading up to the Pulpitum. Pulpitum Screen The Pulpitum Screen separates the Nave from the Quire. Delicately carved statues of six Kings stand on either side of the archway into the Quire. From the left they are Richard II, Henry V, Ethelbert, Edward the Confessor, Henry IV and Henry VI. Martyrdom Here on 29 December 1170 Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered by 4 knights of King Henry II. A small altar, the Altar of the Swords Point, marks the spot. It is so-called because on the altar of that time was preserved the tip of the sword of Richard de Brito which broke on the pavement as he hacked at the Archbishop. A rugged sculpture of the Cross is above. On his historic visit to Canterbury in May 1982, Pope John Paul II knelt in prayer with Archbishop Robert Runcie in this place. Chapel of Our Lady Undercroft Surrounded by the simplicity of the early 12th century Western Crypt, with its round Romanesque arches, elaborately carved capitals, and mysterious dark spaces, the pilgrim sees the distant sanctuary of Our Lady Undercroft. The Romanesque sanctuary was enclosed in the 14th century with a delicately contrived screen by the Black Prince. It was a thank-offering for the dispensation he was granted to marry his cousin, who became known as the Fair Maid of Kent. It is a focus for quiet prayer and meditation. A closer view. Quire .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277 , .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277 .postImageUrl , .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277 , .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277:hover , .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277:visited , .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277:active { border:0!important; } .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277:active , .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277 .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uaf17c04546884295f9f0cc5668db9277:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Absorbent Mind 5 EssayAnother immense vista greets the pilgrim entering the Quire, the longest of any English cathedral. It was built to the new Gothic style by William of Sens, and is notable for the splendour of its length and height, culminating in the Trinity Chapel at the East, 20 feet above the ground level of the Nave. All was finished in 1184, replacing the earlier eastern arm which had been gutted by fire in 1174. St Michaels Chapel This is often called the Warriors Chapel and here are laid up the colours of the local Regiment, now the Princess of Waless Royal Regiment. Daily, a page of the Memorial Book of Names is turned. It is a simple ceremony of commemoration of those who have died in battle, and a regular moment of Prayer for Peace. St Anselms Chapel This small Chapel, dedicated to the scholar Archbishop Anselm, remains from the 12th century Quire. An icon stands here to symbolise the friendship between the Cathedral and the Abbey of Bec in Normandy where Anselm was abbot when he was appointed Archbishop of Canterbury in 1093. High up on the Chapel wall is a 12th century painting of St Paul at Melita. St Augustines Chair This 13th century marble throne was originally part of the furnishings of the Shrine of Thomas in the then new Trinity Chapel. It is the Seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury from which he presides over the world-wide Anglican Communion, which has developed from the Church of England. The present Archbishop of Canterbury is George Carey, who was enthroned in 1991 as the 103rd Incumbent. The first was St Augustine who came in 597. See the Main Altar. List of Archbishops Trinity Chapel The Trinity Chapel once housed the Shrine of Thomas Becket which was removed on the orders of Henry VIII in 1538. The Chapel now stands empty with a solitary candle marking the spot where medieval pilgrims came to pray. Around the place of the Shrine are some of the Cathedrals finest tombs, including Edward the Black Prince (d. 1376) and Henry IV (d. 1413). Tomb of the Black Prince The splendid tomb of Edward, Prince of Wales (1330-1376), known as The Black Prince, is one of the Cathedrals finest. Above it hang replicas of his achievements his helmet, jupon, shield and gauntlets. The originals can be seen preserved in a glass case in the South Quire Aisle. Corona This little Chapel, at the eastern extremity of the Cathedral, is now dedicated to the Saints and Martyrs of Our Time. Originally it contained a relic of the part of Thomas skull which was cut off when he was martyred. Looking West from this point the visitor can see the full length of the Cathedral and the great window at the West end of the Nave. Situtuated astride the dormitory of the medieval cathedral monastery, within yards of the ancient records store, the present Archives maintains a record-keeping function that dates back at least 1300 years. It is the historic archive of the Dean and Chapter of Canterbury. N. B. The archives of the Archbishops of Canterbury are held at Lambeth Palace Library Canterbury Cathedral Archives is administered under the terms of partnership agreements between the Cathedral, Kent County Council It is both a department of Canterbury Cathedral and an office of the Kent Archives Service of the Arts and Libraries department of KCC. It houses the records of the Cathedral, Canterbury Diocese, parishes in the Canterbury Archdeaconry, Canterbury City Council and its predecessors, and other organisations, businesses, administrations and individuals in the Canterbury area. These records are all accessible to the public in a searchroom (run jointly with the Cathedral Library) adjacent to the Cathedral. The Water Tower The water supply of the Monastery was established in the 12th century, the supply being piped in (the original pipes are still in place) from springs nearly a mile away. There were several water towers in the Precincts, which acted as storage cisterns from which more pipes distributed the water to where it was needed. It is said that because of its own water supply the monks of Christ Church, Canterbury, escaped many of the usual depredations of plague and infection. The Chapter House Each day the Benedictine monks met in the Chapter House, first to hear a Chapter of the Rule of St Benedict read to them (hence its name), and then to transact the Communitys business. The Chapter House had previously been extended from its 11th century length in the 13th century. The Priors Stall remains and a lovely feature is the roof vault, inserted in 1405 and made of Irish oak. Stained Glass Two events occurring in 1170 and 1174 laid the foundations of what today is regarded as one of the most important stained glass collections of the late 12th century in the world. The murder of Thomas Becket, as despicable as it was, provided the Cathedral with a powerful attraction to pilgrims, who came to Canterbury in enormous numbers to make offerings. When disaster struck again with the destruction by fire of the Romanesque Quire in September 1174, it was the proceeds from this lucrative pilgrim trade that enabled the monks to build the new Quire and the Trinity Chapel and to fill it with stained glass of outstanding splendour. The fact that, unusually, the Canterbury monks did have a steady income at their disposal resulted in the creation of a building of unprecedented scale and complexity which was completed in a remarkably short period of time. The glazing scheme was conceived in close co-operation between the master builder, glazier and the monks. By 1176, the complete programme was determined and brought to life within 44 years by workshops of English and French craftsmen. The scheme is thus unusually homogenous in its planning and execution, reflecting also its close integration in the overall concept of the eastern arm of the church which was to serve two distinct categories of worshipper, the monks and the pilgrims. The mediaeval cathedral was part of a priory, and in the body of the Quire the monks observed the daily routine in the monastic office. The windows of this part are therefore of a very different character from those in the Trinity Chapel which served the pilgrims for their devotions at St. Thomas shrine. Besides numerous windows in side chapels, the glazing scheme for this reason consists of three major series, one for the Quire and one for the Trinity Chapel respectively, and the third on clerestory level linking both parts of the building together again. In the Quire aisles, a biblical emphasis prevailed. Here the mediaeval monks could study the twelve windows from both Old and New Testaments, arranged to demonstrate the way in which events of the Old Testament were thought to prefigure events in the New. .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d , .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d .postImageUrl , .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d , .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d:hover , .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d:visited , .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d:active { border:0!important; } .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d:active , .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u469a71ad0d62756b7b08474ee573542d:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Who really was Pocahontas? Was she like the Indian EssayThis typological interpretation is based on one of the most popular mediaeval books, the Biblia Pauperum or Poor Mans Bible. The two surviving windows of this series in the north Quire aisle give a striking insight in the mediaeval way of interpreting the world. For the pilgrims visiting St. Thomas shrine, a different subject matter was requested. The twelve windows of the Trinity Chapel therefore illustrated two detailed accounts of Beckets life and the miracles that had taken place at his tomb between 1171 and 1173. Called the Miracle Windows, the stories chosen show the full gamut of medieval society receiving comfort and aid from St. Thomas intercession. The richly coloured glass would for many pilgrims be the finest thing they would ever see, a fitting prelude to the shrine itself. Finally, in the clerestory, the so-called Genealogical Series depicts paired figures, beginning on the north side with the Creation and Adam and culminating on the south side with the Virgin Mary and Christ. With 86 figures taken from the gospel of Luke, this genealogy of ancestors of Christ is the largest of its kind in art. Only 48 figures, however, have survived, some now relocated in the south west transept and the west window and replaced with nineteenth century copies in their stead. Although the scheme has suffered over the centuries from many forms of destruction, the late 12th century glazing at Canterbury has today established its firm place as the most complete collection of its kind in England. The glazing of the western parts was less fortunate. The whole scheme of nave windows has been almost completely swept away, with only the two great windows in the west wall and in the north west transept surviving. Both these windows are associated with kings, Richard II and Edward IV, and although in particular the Royal Window of 1485 in the north west transept had suffered from the notorious attack by Culmer in the 1640s, there is a substantial amount of glass left to tell of the superb quality of 14th and 15th century draftmanship and glazing skills. Canterburys rich heritage of mediaeval stained glass cannot really be matched by later windows, but there are a number of important twentieth century ones that should be included in any stained glass itinerary of the Cathedral. To name but two, the Christopher Whall window of 1906 in the west wall of the south west transept and the windows of 1957 by Erwin Bossanyi in the south east transept are both regarded as eminent representatives of their respective era. Although they differ enormously from their mediaeval ancestors, these windows are now an integral part of the glazing of Canterbury Cathedral, contributing to its diversity and its sheer splendour. The stained glass of the Cathedral is thus justifiably recognised as one of its great treasures. Wall Paintings Prior to the Reformation and the Commonwealth in the Seventeenth Century, Canterbury Cathedral was rich in wallpaintings. All that remains to catch the eye of the modern visitor is a number of fine examples of the wallpainters art, and a great number of fragments which give a tantalising idea of what must once have been. The condition of every painting and every fragment is checked regularly by the Cathedrals expert Wallpaintings Advisory Committee. †¦St. Anselms Chapel The wallpainting of St. Paul and the Viper dates from circa 1160. It is situated high in the north corner of the Eastern Apse of the chapel, with the decoration continuing on to the string courses above and below the painting and round the north window which is blocked. The painting was discovered behind a buttressing wall in 1888. The centuries spent behind the wall have ensured the survival of this vivid painting. †¦St. Gabriels Chapel This chapel contains two extensive Romanesque schemes of painting, plus remains of later, possibly sixteenth century decoration. The earliest scheme in the Apse comprises apocalyptic subjects and scenes of the infancy of John the Baptist and the infancy of Christ. The Romanesque painting in the Nave of this chapel survives mainly in the two west bays. These date from about 1180. †¦Our Lady Undercroft In the chapel of Our Lady Undercroft, one forms the impression of a vivid scheme of decoration now much depleted. The Chapel retains decorative schemes from the twelfth to the sixteenth century; the most evident are the sun and stars depicted on the Eastern Vault. Both the screens and the vaults are richly decorated with expensive pigments and gilding. See statue and Screen. †¦The Chapter House The visitor will notice much decoration in the Chapter House, but little of this is contemporary with the building itself. It seems that the restoration undertaken by Sir Reginald Blomfield in 1896 is the derivation of the most of the extant painting. †¦The Cloisters The vault of the south walk, the earliest to be constructed is decorated with pre-Christian motifs such as Jack in the Green. The heraldic shields may indicate that their owners contributed to the funding of the later parts of the Cloisters. †¦St. Eustace Probably the most attractive to the visitor is the large painting depicting the legend of St. Eustace. This is a fifteenth century oil based painting illustrating scenes from the life and martyrdom of St. Eustace and is on the north wall of the North Quire Aisle, immediately west of the North East Transept. The scenes fill the blind arch, which is nineteen feet high and nearly nine feet wide. The painting was discovered under lime wash in the nineteenth century and was retouched and covered with a wax varnish early in the twentieth century. Agood deal of what the visitor now sees is relatively modern or an adaptation of the original. †¦St. Andrews Chapel The Chapel retains extensive remains of decorated painting from the 12th century onwards: post 1174 masonry pattern and geometric diaper; 14th century vine scroll and IHS monograms within crowns of thorns, and 15th and 16th century Tudor Rose imitation tapestries, fleur de- lys and IHS monograms.

ESL Nonreversible Word Pairs or Examples

ESL Nonreversible Word Pairs or Examples Certain words go together like bread and water. Bread and water is an example of a word pair that is always used in that order. In other words, we dont say water and bread. This type of word pair is called nonreversible. In many ways, they are like collocations - words that usually go together. Students can use this list with examples to learn the most common nonreversible word pairs. Teachers can use this resource in class to help students learn these set phrases. Once you are comfortable with these phrases, continue learning set phrases and collocations. Teachers can explore using set phrases in teaching techniques with the lexical approach. Adam and Eve Walking through this beautiful park makes it seem like we are Adam and Eve.Adam and Eve enjoyed a guilt free life before the big mistake that started it all. Bacon and Eggs I love having bacon and eggs for breakfast.Would you like bacon and eggs this morning? Back and Forth We went back and forth on whether to buy the house or not.The messages went back and forth until a decision was made. Bread and Water Its very hard, but not impossible, to live on bread and water.Many movies show prisoners who only receive bread and water. Bride and Groom The bride and groom are very happy today!Look at the lovely bride and handsome groom. Business and Pleasure Many people say that its not a good idea to mix business and pleasure.Have you ever gone a holiday that mixed business and pleasure? Cause and Effect Cause and effect are not always clear.There are certain linking words which show cause and effect. Cream and Sugar I take cream and sugar in my coffee.Would you like cream and sugar in your tea? Crime and Punishment We have been discussing crime and punishment in English class this month.Crime and Punishment is a famous novel by Dostoyevsky. Cup and Saucer Could you pass me the cup and saucer?Lets have some tea. Could you set the table with cups and saucers? Dead or Alive The criminal is wanted dead or alive.The days of the wild west were famous for notices looking for criminals dead or alive. Dish and Chips I had some fish and chips for dinner yesterday.One of the most famous dishes in England is fish and chips. Fun and Games Life is not all fun and games.Did you think school would be all fun and games? Hammer and Nail Use a hammer and nail to put those two boards together.Grab a hammer and nails and help me with this project. Husband and Wife The husband and wife appeared to be on vacation.Did you see the husband and wife staying in room 203? In and Out I have to go to work. Ill be in and out in a flash.Lets go in and out of the store. Knife and Fork Could you put the knives and forks on the table?I need another knife and fork. Ladies and Gentlemen Ladies and gentlemen, its my pleasure to welcome you tonight.Ladies and gentlemen, Id like to introduce you to Bill Hampton. Law and Order Most people desire law and order in their community.Law and order is one of the prime responsibilities of government. Life or Death Many people seem to go about work as if it were a matter of life or death.I feel like this is a life or death situation. Lock and Key Some parents try to keep their teenagers under lock and key.Our jewelry is kept under lock and key. Lost and Found Look for your coat in the lost and found.Where is the lost and found department? Name and Address Please provide your name and address on this form.Could I have your name and address, please? Pen and Pencil Bring pen and pencil to class on Monday.I always make sure I have pen and pencil by the telephone. Pots and Pans I spent three hours washing the pots and pans.We keep our pots and pans in that cupboard. Profit and Loss The profit and loss report will be out on Friday.Could you go over the profit and loss figures for last quarter? Rain or Shine Ill make sure to come rain or shine.Were having a picnic on Saturday - rain or shine. Read and Write Reading and writing are the two most important skills for this course.How old were you when you learned to read and write? Right and / orWrong Can you tell the difference between right and wrong?He doesnt care if it is right or wrong. Rise and Fall The rise and fall of Rome is fascinating.Some people feel that the rise and fall of this country is already behind us. Salt and Pepper Could you pass the salt and pepper?I like salt and pepper on my eggs. Shirt and Tie Be sure to wear a shirt and tie to the interview.Do I need to wear a shirt and tie? Shoes and Socks You cant get into this restaurant without shoes and socks.Put on your shoes and socks and lets go. Soap and Water Wash your hands with soap and water.Youll find soap and water in the bathroom. Sooner or Later Sooner or later well all know the truth.Ill do it sooner or later. Suit and Tie I wore a suit and tie to the party.Thats a nice suit and tie! Supply and Demand The market system runs on supply and demand.The laws of supply and demand decide a products success or failure. Sweet and Sour I love sweet and sour chicken.Would you like sweet and sour Chinese food tonight? Trial and Error Children learn through trial and error.Most business success occurs through trial and error. Up and / orDown Id like you to vote this procedure up or down?Should we go up or down the stairs? War and Peace Life can be difficult in times of war and peace.War and Peace was written by Tolstoy. Wine and Cheese Lets have some wine and cheese this afternoon.They had wine and cheese at the party.

Six Ways to Make Your Editor Happy and Get More Story Assignments

Six Ways to Make Your Editor Happy and Get More Story Assignments Frequently writing coaches teach how to break into the magazine market, but not how to build a relationship with an editor well enough to become a regular contributor. After freelancing for eight years (including regular columns for several publications), I accepted the position of editor for a regional lifestyle magazine. Since joining the magazine staff, Ive come to wish every freelancer could spend enough time in an editors shoes to learn both sides of the business. Editors generally give new writers a chance with a short, front-of-the-book piece to see what they can do. Some never get a second chance. Others lose their foothold after several stories. If you struggle to develop a long-term relationship with the publications you wish to work with on a regular basis, see if any of these tips apply to you. Be punctual - Think this is self-explanatory? You wouldnt believe how many times Ive had to email a writer to ask for a late assignment. Late assignments clog the flow of everything, from copyediting to layout to printing. If your stories frequently hold up progress, expect your future queries to fall on deaf ears. Know your reader - Magazines generally have a demographic that encompasses education level, economic means and geographic location. As highly as we like to think of our own writing, remember the average American reads on a seventh grade level. If you are writing for the typical consumer magazine, nix the words nefarious and ubiquitous and speak the language of the people. If you see ads in the magazine for Rolex watches and Saks Fifth Avenue, dont assume the reader will want to read how to score big at Goodwill. Also, dont pitch articles to regional publications highlighting attractions outside of their geographic area. Be a servant - Freelance writers provide a service for the publication. That makes them servants, not celebrities, divas or gods. My first week on the job as editor, I had an irate writer demand a retraction for the edits I made to her story. She never respectfully questioned my changes. She demanded and threatened because, as a self-proclaimed prominent member of the community, she was embarrassed that the end product wasnt her work. Unfortunately, her work read like a list of facts, lacking life and quotes from real people. That said Provide life - Never turn in a story for which you havent interviewed a real person, in person. Dont tell me about those five places to go canoeing, let the man in the canoe tell m - in his words. Avoid emailing interview questions. You miss the opportunity to get random comments and the tone of voice, posture and facial expressions that prompt you to dig deeper. At least use the telephone. Make technology your friend Editors do not have the time, nor the desire, to teach you how to download a contract and sign and return it - electronically. If you cannot handle the technology required to become a regular contributor to the publication, the editor will not invite you to become one. Keep your emails organized When submitting a query, create a fresh email with your topic in the subject line. Then, when you follow up with questions, your editor wont have to search for 15 minutes to find the original query. I could go on. But if you can master just these few tips, and your writing is clean and your ideas are fresh, I guarantee any editor would love to have you on board.

Financial and marketing analysis Research Paper

Financial and marketing analysis - Research Paper Example Apart from financial analysis, the study also highlights the information pertaining to different sections of the real estate market in Russia. It is worth mentioning that the whole study gives emphasis on JLL operating in Russia. In Russia, JLL plays an important role in drawing investment from real estate investors. It is one of the major places in Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) region, in which JLL has developed lucrative business. The company has offered huge space for office purposes and has covered 323,000 square meters of space. It has also delivered about 11 office buildings to Russians. There are three types of real estate investment in Russia: commercial, residential and industrial. All the three mentioned sectors are crucial for the company as it drives revenue. The company has encountered increasing revenue and profit trend over the years from 2004 to 2013. However, there were a series of challenges for the company, which made significant changes in its financials following changes in earning per share. The challenges were exchange rate volatility, slow down of the Russian economy and most importantly uncertainty in Ukraine, which affected the confidence of investors in real estate marke t. The investor confidence decreased with the decrease in investment patterns in the first two quarters of 2014. In February 2014, the armed forces of Russia began to take over Crimean Peninsula that is situated in Ukraine. Till date the conflict continued as a result there are huge changes in the financial markets in Russia. It caused turbulence in the financial markets and fell drastically due to instability. After the event the real estate market in Russia is also affected. However, after the financial shock in 2008 to 2009, the country’s real estate market was recovering excellently but the sudden conflict made the situation worse for the real estate companies in Russia (The Economic Newspaper Limited, 2014). The

Accounting analysis assess. Write about the degree to which the firm's Assignment

Accounting analysis assess. Write about the degree to which the firm's accounting reflects the underlying business reality - Assignment Example The revenues of the Myer Holdings have been increasing steadily since 2010 unto 2012 when the income earnings after tax stabilize. Income after tax rises by a small percentage but later starts to decline steadily in the year 2014. The net profit after tax was increasing positively over the few years but still lower compared to David Jones, the company’s chief competitor. This is noted in the year 2014 when the company sales have reduced. For instance, the entity has an experienced underinvestment recently thus lowering the EBIT in the year 2014. The recent developments are expected to raise the company revenues from $ 2891.7 million in 2014 to3.324.4 million by 2020 (Appendix 4). The selling expenses in the year 2014 will increase from the 783800 to 811718. In the same year, the expenses increased while the sales decreased thereby lowering the EBIT (Appendix 6). The sales income is currently above $ 2 billion and capitalization of the market of above $ 2 billion (Appendix 4). The reporting standard by the company fails to reflect the true business value. Also, the used report describes the firm’s performance and creation of value on the basis of the 2013 report. (Appendix 4) Over the last two years market price of Myer has reduced from 21.8 to 16.8 thereby diluting the share earnings (Appendix 4). This portrays a negative performance of the company in the last year. The company has also diversified its investments. It has sourced goods and speeded the importation directly. The firm analyzed favors different individuals increasing the share of the market to the different customer. The savings and investments of the company increased steadily over the three years from 2010 but declined in the year 2014. (Appendix 6) To start with, the firm is dealing with products that comprise of clothing, hardware, cosmetics, general merchandise among others. Currently, the firm is operating 67 stores that produce 11 ranges of

A strategic analysis of Estee Lauder

A strategic analysis of Estee Lauder In the world of business today, where competition is one of the major challenges that every organisation is facing, the need for strategic planning and analysis arises. These are essential for the survival of an organisation as well as determining the direction in which an enterprise is going in relation to its environment in order to achieve a competitive advantage by formulating a competitive strategy. It is important that an organisation grabs every opportunity that is coming along its way, and responds to any risks and limitations presented by the external environment. In order for an organisation to make and take correct decisions, it requires an understanding and knowledge about the impact the environment can have on the organisation. This is strategic management. It is therefore important not only to look at what is best for the organisation, but also to take the needs of shareholders into consideration. For effective strategic management, it is important to have a strategic analysis. The reason for an analysis is because; the issues that are being analysed are often quite complex even if there may be enough information available Fleisher. C Bensoussan .B (2002). This study is organised as follows; Chapter two defines important terms which will help in the further understanding of this study. Chapter three introduces the company Estee Lauder. Chapter four evaluates the strategic analysis of Estee Lauder by looking at techniques, models and processes, and chapter five concludes. Chapter 2 Strategic Analysis This is where a strategy is formulated by carrying out a research on the organisation and the business environment in which the organisation operates (BNET Business Dictionary.) However, Professor Les Worrall defined it as,à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦a theoretically informed understanding of the environment in which an organisation is operating, together with an understanding of the organisations interaction with its environment in order to improve organisational efficiency and effectiveness by increasing the organisations capacity to deploy and redeploy its resources intelligently. 2.1 Strategic model Managers must take in to account three major factors when strategic decisions are made; The shareholders expectations and objectives it is important that organisations are clear about their long-term objectives. However, due to factors that an organisation does not have any control over may influence the organisation to change its objectives, thus conflicting with the shareholders. Therefore, management must know how to reconcile the shareholders expectations while setting the objectives of the organisation. Available resources for an organisation to achieve its objective Depending on the strengths and weaknesses of organisations resources, the firm can pursue its strategies. However, these may change with the prevailing environment. Total environment within which the organisation operates Forecasting what the future may bring is a difficulty that managers face, because the environment is uncertain. This factor also has an influence on what strategy can be pursued. Taking each of the above three factors into consideration is known as strategic analysis. 2.2 Aim of strategic analysis It understands an organisations strategic position. Strategic analysis forms a view of the key influences on the present and future well-being of the organisation and what opportunities are afforded by the environment and the competencies of the organisation Baily. P, Farmer. D, Jessop. D, Jones. D (2005). 2.3 Importance of strategic analysis. Strategic analysis is important in providing an organisation with meaningful insights and with a clear framework so as to prepare itself for change. Its importance lies in evaluating patterns and trends for the organisation. It is also important in the identification and assessment of the opportunities available to the organisation Fleisher. C Bensoussan .B (2002). It also helps the organisation understand its strategic position by providing information such as; what is happening in the business environment and industry, and what competencies should be developed so as to stay competitive. It gives the description of strategic goals and the firms business strategy. Strategic analysis also leads to goals that are clear and relevant, helps in the taking of decisions with better quality, and provides a secure future by preparing the organisation with what may happen in the future. Strategic management This is a process of making and implementing strategic decisions. The organisation must also analyse the competencies already present in the organisation. These competencies help in formulating strategies. The process should consist of the following elements; The analysis of a strategy- Understanding the changes going on in the environment in which the organisation exits, and how these affect the organisation, its activities, its strength of resources and the expectation of stake holders, also analysing competitor strategies through assumptions, focusing on weaknesses and threats. The choice of strategy- This is concerned with all the possible causes of action which may be taken. Eliminating out many other strategies chosen, and putting in order of importance. An evaluation of each of the causes identified- The selection of those which the organisation must attempt to follow, and therefore discuss at length the strategies short-listed. Implementation of selected planned strategy- This is turned into an effective caused action. Discuss on implementing, but not actual implementation. 2.4 Importance of strategic management It is a planned process that needs to be followed Its considers the future and anticipates what it could bring It increases organisational growth as it brings in opportunities It also looks at the threats the external environment may poses and works on how to get rid or manage these Helps companies remain stable by foreseeing what the future may bring. Chapter 3 3.1 An Organization is a consciously coordinated social entity, with a relatively identifiable boundary, that functions on a relatively conscious basis to achieve a common goal or set of goals. Richard, (2002) Estee Lauder was founded in 1946. It is a globally recognised company, whose headquarter is in New York, but is in over 140 countries. It manufactures and markets hair care products, fragrances, skin care and makeup. The company has 29 brands, some of which are; Estee Lauder, Clinique, M.A.C, Aramis, Bobbi Brown, Darphin and many more. Estee Lauder is technologically advanced and has a reputation for innovation, superior quality and sophistication. 3.2 Estee Lauders Strategy Koontz and ODonnell describes strategy as a decision about how to use available resources to secure a major objective in the face of possible obstructionsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦.such as competitors, public opinion, legal status, taboos and similar forces. Their strategy is to build a diversified business base, which they believe will strongly boost up their growth globally. Their focus is to remain a distinguished leader in the global prestige cosmetics. Their three essential growth strategies are: Their geographic presence should be expanded and strengthened Their product categories should also be strengthened Their channels of distribution should also be strengthened and diversifiable. 3.3 Vision Mission A companys mission and vision is for its employees and customers. The Mission defines and reflects the company, its core purposes, its values and principles. The vision however, provides an image of the future. The Vision Statement of Estee Lauder: Bringing the best to everyone we touch. By The best, we mean the best products, the best people and the best ideas. These three pillars have been the hallmarks of our Company since it was founded by Mrs. Estee Lauder in 1946. They remain the foundation upon which we continue to build our success today. 3.4 Objectives They are energetic, innovative and first for customers Power endeavour to do our very best and enhance the companys leadership throughout the world Building strong global brands through innovative delivery of products and increase revenues Look after our people so they can look after our customers Understand customers better than anyone and Use our strengths to deliver unbeatable value to our customers Business relationships Through distribution channels, reaching the customers globally Trust and respect each other 3.5 Scope According to Mintzberg and Quinn there are five definitions of strategy: Strategy as a plan Strategy as a pattern Strategy as a position Strategy as a perspective Strategy as a ploy Estee Lauder adopted: Plan Estee Lauder has good planning and they strongly believe all their success is all because of its planning. Perspective Estee Lauders perspective was to increase its company growth globally by 2008. This was achieved mainly because of the international business, mainly from emerging markets such as China and India. Chapter 4 4 Estee Lauders External environment analysis 4.1 PESTEL Analysis for Estee Lauder: PESTEL analysis  is the external analysis of the different macro-environmental factors that a business must consider. Kotler (1998)The PEST analysis is a useful tool for understanding the position, potential and direction for a business as well as the market growth or decline. The radical and ongoing changes occurring in society create an uncertain environment and have an impact on the function of the whole organization Tsiakkiros, (2002). Hence the analysis of the macro-environment is very important to identify factors which could affect various variables and arrangements within the organisation. Macro-environmental analysis assist Estee Lauder management to increase its attentiveness of appropriate environmental changes thus improve strategic planning by enriching its industrial and market analysis. The PESTEL analysis in addition to Porters Five Force model and SWOT can be applied by an organization to review its strategic direction. These have been discussed below. Political factors The political environment within which an organisation exists has far reaching consequences. The political environment most obviously operates at National level, but may also be significant at local and international levels. Estee Lauder gives direction to countries through the way they exert control over the economy. Estee Lauder should not only be cognisant with the politics of a country, but also with the media, industry and labour leaders. The following political factors can affect the business environment: Level of government involvement in business Stability Liberalisation Taxation Co-operation and integration, e.g. EU Economical factors This is concerned with the nature and direction of the economy in which a firm operates. Estee Lauder looks at the interplay of market forces that dictate the state of the economy and implications on both commercial and non-commercial organisations. Prices vary from brand to brand and product to product, but these are usually in the higher ranges of an industry. The factors include: Exchange rates Interest rates Spending power Inflation and employment Socio, Cultural Factors The socio cultural influences on businesses vary internationally. These affect a societys basic values, perceptions, preferences and behaviours. It is vital that such factors are considered if an organization wants to achieve its proposed objectives. Factors include: The dominance of the religion Education and belief The impact of language upon the diffusion of products onto markets When do customers have time for shopping The roles of men and women within society and depending upon that the products should be launched Estee Lauder has received customer complaints regarding the fact that new products are being tested on animals first. They have to look into this matter as it can pose serious issues with the customers. Technological factors More and more businesses are affected by technology. Technological factors affect the operations of the firm since technological changes serve to avoid obsolesce and to promote innovation of relevant techniques in the industry. Estee Lauder has rapid technological changes in its products, and these products can be accessed online via the internet. Some technological factors are: IT rapid growth Innovation Government spending on research New discoveries and developments R D expenditure Product life cycle Environmental Factors These factors are also known as the Natural factors. These factors help Estee Lauder in showing strategic doubts and their worth in the predicting and planning processes using environmental aspects. There have been emissions of harmful gases and fluorocarbons, which Estee Lauder must take care of as it is and environmental threat. Its increases the significance of the following factors: Shortage of raw material Increased pollution Increased governmental intervention Legal Factors Estee Lauder functions within a structure of Government regulations and legislations. These laws and regulations should be considered when running businesses: Labour laws and industrial relations Municipal licenses Formation Taxation Competition Copyright and patent laws Minimum wages laws and Employment law Demographic Factors These factors may also exist under the macro-environmental factors. Following factors must are considered with regard to the key Demographic trends by Estee Lauder: World population growth Changing household Geographic population shifts Better-educated, more white-collar workforce Increasing Diversity Changing age structure Population consists of generational groups. Distinct segments typically exist within these generational groups. 4.2 Porters Five Force Model This model evaluates a companys competitive position. Any business works to develop an edge over its rival firms. This model helps in the understanding of the industry context in which Estee Lauder operates. Below is a diagrammatical representation of the model. http://www.maxi-pedia.com/Five+Forces+model+by+Michael+Porter Barriers to entry This is low in the case of Estee Lauder as it has made its position pretty strong and hence new entrants will not pose a threat to it as it will be difficult for these to enter into the market as the barriers are pretty high. They also have good access to their distribution channels and the correct knowledge of the segments they are operating in. Substitutes This is also low in the case of Estee Lauder. Customers have built a customer loyalty. Estee Lauder also provides the best quality products whose performance is to the mark as is the name, therefore threat of substitutes will be low. Bargaining power of suppliers The suppliers would have a low bargaining power as Estee Lauder is a huge brand and the volume of goods required from the suppliers around the world is also huge. There would be very many suppliers willing to supply such a company, hence it is important for the suppliers to provide the company with what they require and something that is unique from its competitors. Bargaining power of buyers This is high as buyers can easily switch to other big brands as the number of these brands present in the market segment is high. However, due to customer loyalty to the brand, it does not face much of this as it provides its buyers with what they want and how they want it. Competitive Rivalry This is high in the case of Estee Lauder. Its major competitors are; Avon, LOreal, PG, Max Factor, Revlon, etc. Estee Lauder therefore needs to have constant innovation of its products so as to stay ahead of competition. There are various brands under the company, therefore, it is important that the range of price is good and they can differentiate their products well without customers facing high switching costs. Estee Lauder created the line designed for men in 1976. It was called skin supplies for men (Estee Lauder 2003a). Avon, Max Factor and Revlon did not have men lines. 4.3 SWOT analysis for Estee Lauder A SWOT analysis is important as a clear basis is provided to examine the performance of a business. It is also very important for the products a company offer, as it is essential in the branding and marketing of the company products. This model helps in the understanding of the firm and its surroundings. Internal Strengths Weaknesses Strong brand name Research and development focus Strong distribution network Robust revenue and profit growth sales Weak liquidity position Customer concentration Weak performance in a few markets External Opportunities Threats Demographic trends in the United States Cosmetics markets in emerging nations Growing riches- Rich getting wealthier Counterfeit products Intense competition Increasing regulations Strengths The brand name, Estee Lauder itself is a strength. The name is linked to quality and luxury. The company is also a global licensee for other big brands like; Tommy Hilfiger, Donna Karen, etc. Estee Lauder leads in each market segment in the industry as it develops new products, redesigns existing ones and identifies and considers consumer preferences. It has a large network of retail. This therefore increases the market penetration opportunities and creates closeness to target customers. It has a strong management strategic perspective, and is also having a great growth. It also has various innovations such as; offering shopping via the internet (it was the first major cosmetic firm to have offered shopping via the internet.) Weaknesses The company bargaining power could be lowered by it concentrating on a single biggest client. They also have a poor cost structure in some areas, hence a decline in the performance of sales in certain regions. The company could be exposed to the debt market due to low liquidity levels, and this could thus affect the company growth. It is the Family members that have most of the power over the company. The companys organisational structure is not easily distinguished. In America, there are particularly lower sales in the fragrance category. Opportunities Estee Lauder targets aged people and therefore makes products to suit these people. Its revenues could be boosted by having a strong and great presence in its segments, thus also increasing growth. The cosmetics markets are doing good in emerging markets like India and China, as there are many beauty contests that take place. This cosmetics market is growing due to younger and middle aged women that are being more style conscious. Estee Lauder is also well positioned in these emerging markets. There is also a demand in the luxury goods. More money is spent on these goods. Therefore, the needs of these wealthy people are also taken into consideration, and products made to meet their needs and wants. Threats Many fake products are being sold, thus affecting Estee Lauders sales. This can lead to the company losing its exclusivity of the brand. This could thus harm the image of the company. Customers may also be dissatisfied with these products as the fake product may harm them, thus the company would lose out on customers. Many big brands such as; Revlon, LOreal, would increase competition in the market. The government may also impose certain rules and regulations on the products saying that the product has high levels of chemicals which are harmful to people. This may thus lead to an increase in the cost of developing the products and also in the launching of the products. Chapter 5 Conclusion Businesses are different in many ways; therefore every organisation needs to have a business plan, which needs to be reviewed in order to keep it up to date. The plan at Estee Lauder is articulated by corporate leaders, who give the organisation direction, so as to avoid a strategic drift. They create a vision of a possible future that allows both the managers and others to see clearly the direction to take, building upon the companys current capacity and strength. To gain competitive edge and analyze the external environment, Estee Lauder could further use the Value chain, BCG growth model and scenario analysis for its strategic analysis. Recommended strategies that Estee Lauder could use are; Forward, backward, horizontal integration, product and market development, market penetration and more diversification. Estee Lauder took the approach of providing great customer service, great quality and staff ownership, hence making it different from the rest. References Advanced Diploma in Business Administration Corporate strategy Syllabus. Baily. P, Farmer. D, Jessop. D, Jones. D (2005). Purchasing Principles and Management. Pearson Education. FT Prentice Hall. Fleisher. C Bensoussan .B (2002). Strategic and competitive analysis: Methods and techniques for analysing business competition (Prentice Hall, 2002) Johnson and Scholes . Exploring Corporate Strategy (Prentice Hall, 1999) Richard H.(2002) Organizations. 8th Edition. India: Prentice Hall India. p.189 GLL Brochure and Guide book Web references http://www.auburn.edu/~boultwr/html/strategic_analysis_model.htm (accessed on 21th November 2010). http://dictionary.bnet.com/definition/Strategic+Analysis.html (accessed on 21th November 2010). http://www.maxi-pedia.com/Five+Forces+model+by+Michael+Porter(accessed on 21th November 2010). http://www.fragrancewholesale.com/somhisbacofe.html (accessed on 23th November 2010). http://hubpages.com/hub/Importance-of-Strategic-Management (accessed on 23th Novenber 2010) http://www.toponereport.com/why-you-need-a-swot-analysis/ (accessed on 23th November 2010). http://www.is4profit.com/business-advice/business-/swot-analysis.html?gclid=CNWztveJvaUCFUUe4QodhWttXw (accessed on 24th November 2010). http://www.freeonlineresearchpapers.com/estee-lauder-executive-summary (accessed on 24th November 2010). http://www.fragrancewholesale.com/somhisbacofe.html (accessed on 24th November 2010). http://www.elcompanies.com/the_company/executive_messages.php(accessed on 25th November 2010). http://www.netmba.com/strategy/pest/(accessed on 25th November 2010). http://www.slideshare.net/guest78d8ca/sm-case-jisha-remya2 (accessed on 25th November 2010).

Personal

The Committee on Admission is interested in getting to know each candidate as well as possible through the application process. The following essay question is designed to demonstrate your writing skills and facilitate our full appreciation of who you are. The quality of Rice’s academic life and the Residential College System is heavily influenced by the unique life experiences and cultural traditions each student brings. What perspective do you feel that you will contribute to life at Rice? (Most applicants are able to respond successfully in two to three double-spaced pages. In everything I do, I try to reach out to people. My connection with others is what drives me. I like to observe people, to get to know people, to show people who I am. I think that what moves many people (myself included) is the idea that we are all alike. There is a quote from the French film The Diving Bell and the Butterfly which resonates with me: â€Å"We're all children, we all need approval. â⠂¬  This quote shows that we are driven by similar hopes, emotions, and experiences and we can come together to achieve great things.This perspective has allowed me to connect with classmates, strangers, and family in my experiences as the school’s Social Services prefect, as a volunteer at North York General Hospital, and as a granddaughter in a large family. The Diving Bell ; the Butterfly is a beautiful film about a once-successful editor of Elle magazine, Jean-Dominique Bauby, who becomes imprisoned in his own body after a massive stroke. He is completely paralyzed and cannot speak. In one instant, his entire life is taken from him. It moved me to see his despair, vulnerability, and lack of hope; his life which was once so full seemed empty and desolate now.He couldn’t truly live. As someone who loves life, I was brought to tears by the consequences of his stroke. It was ironic, unexpected, unfair, and heartbreaking. Despite this, Jean-Do is able to get through it all. At a defining moment in the film, he says, â€Å"I decided to stop pitying myself. Other than my eye, two things aren't paralyzed, my imagination and my memory. † It was uplifting to see that this man, who seemingly has nothing, could still have hope. I was deeply inspired by his perseverance; he showed that life is really about having imagination and letting go of material concerns which limit us.In October 2008, I experienced the most stressful week of the entire school year as the Social Services Prefect: United Way Week. As I began the daunting planning and preparation, I felt there was something lacking despite the strong annual tradition of United Way Week. As the years had progressed, students were falling into a routine and typical events were becoming stale. To address a problem that I saw in my community, I did not merely â€Å"party-plan† by resorting to the usual events. I aimed to be strategic by introducing new events. I knew that new events would d raw more interest and unite the student body.However, I also recognized that I could not plan an entire campaign alone. I brought my ideas for change to the Prefect team as well as my peers. I asked them what they would like to see, what kinds of activities they would be excited for. I then mapped out a schedule and delegated jobs. For instance, one new event this year was a competition between my school’s Prefects and our brother school’s Stewards: five from each school in one face-off. As each Prefect and Steward challenged each other one on one, five previously outlined tasks (rap, tell a joke, or dance) were announced and completed impromptu.In implementing these new activities, I was taking a big risk. I couldn’t predict how the students would react or how much we could raise. In the end, our initiatives succeeded in creating substantial change to an established campaign, raising over $12,000 for United Way. Helping others is in my nature. I hate suffering and injustice. Most of all, I am someone of action; if there is something that needs to be done, I will do it. When I help others, I know that I am changing their lives but I also recognize that they give me something as well; I first experienced this as a volunteer at North York General Hospital.In December 2007, a father ran in to the Emergency ward frantically asking for some help. His daughter, who had been skiing that day, injured herself by slipping on the hill. Lying in the van, she was in great pain but could not move. The father needed help in getting his daughter into waiting area. I first looked to Security but they were on patrol and the nurses were occupied helping other patients. I found myself in a difficult situation but I went outside with this father to see what I could do. I brought a wheelchair, hoping the young girl could slide from the car into the chair.However, she was unable to sit without being in severe pain. So we decided to pull her out, supporting her e ntire body. Her father, brother, and I lifted her up in a horizontal position out of the car. We set her down on her feet while continually offering support with our shoulders. Her cries were distressing but there was no other way to transport her in. Finally, when we were inside, I found a line of chairs on which she could lie down. Afterwards, I told her father how to register and what would happen next. Immediately, her father thanked me for being there. At first I had felt helpless that I couldn’t do more.I couldn’t stop his daughter’s pain. I couldn’t fast-forward the registration line. But I soon saw that the help that I could offer, the instructions and information that I had, and the humanity I showed, gave them a small comfort amidst the chaos. My experiences volunteering at the hospital showed me that suffering exists and though I may be unable to fix it, I alleviate the situation by doing what is in my power to do. In my family, loyalty is extr emely important. Spending time with family is an unquestionable responsibility for all of us: we are there for each other.Ever since I arrived in Canada as a 4-year old girl, I have been attending my grandmother’s birthday dinners each year in October. I can remember entering the traditional red and gold restaurant as a young child. Before I did anything else, my mother instructed me first to wish my grandmother a happy birthday and a lucky and long life, both of which are traditional Chinese phrases, and then kiss her once on both cheeks. As a child in elementary school, I barely understood the significance of the repetition of those phrases.Throughout my grandmother’s celebratory dinner, I occupied myself with Nintendo Games or hand games with my cousins. At the end of each dinner came the Chinese fruitcake. I always had to have the slice with a strawberry on top. By the end of the dinner, I hardly realized that I had barely spoken to my grandmother. Reflecting back on those times, I now have a bigger comprehension of the importance of family. I see how my grandmother loved to hear those phrases I said to her and how much it meant to her. Now as a teenager entering university, I long to say so much more.I want to update her on my school work or my friends or my dreams. I see the duty I have as a granddaughter, daughter, and sister in a family: to respect the bond that we are born with, to support my relatives because I know that I will always have my family to fall back on. Another form of expression that I value is in the music I listen to. If I have had a tough day, I put on my â€Å"Soothing Playlist†. In it is one of my favourite songs, â€Å"A Better Son/Daughter† by Rilo Kiley. The cerebral lyrics describe the difficulties that we all go through: you’ll be positive though it hurts / and you’ll laugh and embrace all your friends.I can relate to these lyrics because sometimes the commitments I take on overwhelm m e. During chaotic and stressful times, it is difficult to keep on top of everything. But I always keep at it because this is what I truly love to do. Going to dance club, singing in choir, researching in a lab: all of these things allow me to explore my interests and enjoy myself, helping me to grow as a person. It is only realistic to recognize that some days are harder than others. Nobody is perfect. This song and many others on my playlist encourage me to push through because I’ll be stronger for it.My desire for growth always involves reaching out to others: showing loyalty to friends and family; offering my support as a volunteer at the hospital; using the unity of my school to raise money that goes to a greater cause. My great ambitions are achieved by supporting and relying on others. I value family, perseverance, morals and I am a confident, ambitious, leader with a need for a strong community. This is what I will bring to Rice’s academic life and residence; I hope to connect with my peers and mentors in order to grow and achieve my goals.