Beginning

I have decided to start keeping a blog to force myself to keep up with developments in my field and to improve my business writing skills. My goal is to try to identify and understand connections between finance, economics, and politics.

About me:

I am in my final year of an MBA program at a respected mid-west university. I have a bachelor's degree in architecture. I worked in the architectural profession for three years and decided to enroll in Business school.

Random hobbies:

I am an avid artist and enjoy painting, drawing, sculpture and photography and may occasionally post about something interesting going on in the art world. I am a cook and a baker.

Last, I am an outdoor enthusiast. I enjoy camping, hiking, backpacking and canoeing (to name a few activities).

For the curious:

The name, American Scapegoat, reflects the views that Washington and 'Main Street' more commonly hold regarding the financial sector. Everyone is pointing fingers and failing to recognize the part they played in the financial mess. Politicians blame Wall Street. Wall Street blames politicians. Victims of unethical loan originators blame financial institutions. Financial institutions think they are the victim.

As soon as we realize that we are all to blame the sooner we will be able to move on.

'The American Dream' became every American's 'right' to own a home for some, and for others it became making millions from speculating. If the World learns ONLY one lesson from this ten year economic roller coaster ride, I hope people will learn to live within their means and save for a rainy day.

I'll get off my soap box now. Thanks for reading!