And that's a wrap! Today was the last day of Q2 class for Second Years. I'm five finals away from having one more semester left at Darden, half of which will be spent somewhere very foreign to me. I sat down with an SSE exchange student today to ask what may seem like silly questions. I wanted to know how students dressed for class. If they use computers as much as we do at Darden (as this determines whether I purchase a new battery). I asked how people dress to go out on the weekends and what time nightlife shuts down. I learned that she has a significant other at home, so I inquired as to if she used Skype or another service to keep in contact. Her advice was to purchase a webcam as it changes the dynamics of just talking to each other (and it's MUCH cheaper in the US). I also wanted to know if she purchased a cell phone while here. Overall, the conversation was informative and has me very excited for the experience to come.
Of course, between that experience and me is a trip to India, New Years in New York, five finals and a trip to Louisville, KY for a second, second round interview. Yesterday, I had a phone interview, that went quite well. By the end, I was being asked my availability to fly out for another round of in person interviews. Unfortunately, my travel schedule does not allow much flexibility, so I fly out on Monday night and return Tuesday afternoon. Though we have finals, I'm thankful and lucky they are all take home. The company was nice enough to show concern, except I told them that I would worry about finals and all they needed to worry about was travel arrangements. I thought that was fair.
"Darden Prom" is this Friday. Though you don't need a date, many people are under the misconception that "Darden Prom" mirrors high school prom. While I'm sure all the girls will spend just as much on dresses and hair, I think Darden prom is one of the best events of the year. It's a time to relax and enjoy some holiday cheer with friends before everyone parts for winter break. Further, the event raises money for BGiA through a live auction. Just like any other charity event, the more they drink, the loser they are with their pocket books.
So much is going on these days, that I should be focused on finals. Instead, I'm writing this blog post and contemplating one of my few TNDC attendances this year.
Showing posts with label Interviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Interviews. Show all posts
Thursday, December 03, 2009
Monday, November 09, 2009
Job Searching...
I feel like I've been recruiting for the last 1.5 years straight. While I realize that is a stretch of the imagination as I did have a 3 month internship in there, it's all weighing down on me right now. I just completed a second round NPV analysis that at best, I'd give myself a C. I know it's harsh, except when I hit submit on the email returning the case I almost wanted to tell the guy to withdraw my name from the candidate pool. Can you tell I'm running thin?
I've spent the last couple weekends traveling for second rounds and have another weekend of traveling ahead of me. I'm grateful to even have made second rounds, yet, given that I haven't heard back from any of them, I'm not sure where my benchmark is. Am I doing well? Do I need coaching? Will I end up with a job prior to Christmas?
In some ways, it doesn't matter when I end up with a job. In many others, I feel overwhelmed with classes, recruiting and life. One of my close friends had her baby this past weekend, likely the soonest I'll see him is April. These days, I feel the need to blow off some steam and occasionally I do, though when I return, the work is still sitting there.
For instance, I had dinner with my boyfriend, a classmate and his wife last night. We sat around the table for 2 hours after a yummy homecooked turkey dinner - swapping stories, sipping on wine and enjoying exactly what second year is about, a little TLC with people who may only be around for the next 7 months. Of course, when we finished dinner I still had 100 pages of my reading seminar book to complete. It's the never-ending list of things to do.
I've spent the last couple weekends traveling for second rounds and have another weekend of traveling ahead of me. I'm grateful to even have made second rounds, yet, given that I haven't heard back from any of them, I'm not sure where my benchmark is. Am I doing well? Do I need coaching? Will I end up with a job prior to Christmas?
In some ways, it doesn't matter when I end up with a job. In many others, I feel overwhelmed with classes, recruiting and life. One of my close friends had her baby this past weekend, likely the soonest I'll see him is April. These days, I feel the need to blow off some steam and occasionally I do, though when I return, the work is still sitting there.
For instance, I had dinner with my boyfriend, a classmate and his wife last night. We sat around the table for 2 hours after a yummy homecooked turkey dinner - swapping stories, sipping on wine and enjoying exactly what second year is about, a little TLC with people who may only be around for the next 7 months. Of course, when we finished dinner I still had 100 pages of my reading seminar book to complete. It's the never-ending list of things to do.
Monday, October 26, 2009
The Ding
It's inevitable that in interview season, everyone receives the illicit ding. If you're one of the fortunate ones to never experience this, I congratulate you.
There is not great way to get the ding, though I do feel some ways are easier than others. Email is just about as informal as it gets. The pro is that you don't have the awkward silence as you try to figure out what to say once someone has said they're uninterested. That leads me to the phone call, often the recruiter or someone from the corporate office who has no connection calls you to say you will not move on to Round 2. How are you supposed to respond? I simply say "thank you and enjoy your day/night/afternoon" though I'm not sure if there's a more appropriate response.
The voicemail is less painful than the actual phone call, fact is however, this person was trying to talk with you and the chance of them catching you may be as great as the chance that they don't. The voicemail to return a phone call typically means good news, unless of course you were me this morning, returning a phone call only to hear thanks, but no thanks.
Finally, I had another interesting experience this evening. I received the typical email this afternoon, only to get a phone call this evening with feedback. While I appreciate the feedback, it made the email ding feel worse than the typical recruiter phone call. I know it is meant to be helpful, except the feedback was regarding my quantitative skills and my knowledge of the industry. Fine, I did not articulate my industry knowledge well, but my analytic skills are part of my profile that I feel is strongest. I suppose we'll say last Thursday was simply a bad interview day.
While this post is mostly about the negatives of the interview process, I have heard some positives along the way as well, so don't think it's all dull-drums over here.
There is not great way to get the ding, though I do feel some ways are easier than others. Email is just about as informal as it gets. The pro is that you don't have the awkward silence as you try to figure out what to say once someone has said they're uninterested. That leads me to the phone call, often the recruiter or someone from the corporate office who has no connection calls you to say you will not move on to Round 2. How are you supposed to respond? I simply say "thank you and enjoy your day/night/afternoon" though I'm not sure if there's a more appropriate response.
The voicemail is less painful than the actual phone call, fact is however, this person was trying to talk with you and the chance of them catching you may be as great as the chance that they don't. The voicemail to return a phone call typically means good news, unless of course you were me this morning, returning a phone call only to hear thanks, but no thanks.
Finally, I had another interesting experience this evening. I received the typical email this afternoon, only to get a phone call this evening with feedback. While I appreciate the feedback, it made the email ding feel worse than the typical recruiter phone call. I know it is meant to be helpful, except the feedback was regarding my quantitative skills and my knowledge of the industry. Fine, I did not articulate my industry knowledge well, but my analytic skills are part of my profile that I feel is strongest. I suppose we'll say last Thursday was simply a bad interview day.
While this post is mostly about the negatives of the interview process, I have heard some positives along the way as well, so don't think it's all dull-drums over here.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Interview Malfunction
As if life wasn't stressful enough these days... Last week, I almost forgot to grab a snack on my way to school for the day. Focusing on the fact that I didn't want to forget my interview shoes, I missed grabbing my house keys and didn't realize it until I was over halfway to school.
Earlier this week, I packed up my laptop, books, lunch and thought I had grabbed everything I needed, including my keys. I got to school to discover that I forgot my power cord for my laptop. While this would not be a problem for most, my laptop doesn't recognize that it has a battery, nonetheless stay on for more than a couple minutes.
It seems we all have our interview malfunctions and are creative in how to respond to them. I asked my roommate to bring my keys to school and borrowed a power cord from the technical support desk. Today, may take the cake on resourcefulness though. As a classmate walked down the hall, she broke her heel completely off, nearly 10 minutes prior to her interview. She yelled down the hall to Carrie, who works in the Career Development Center (CDC) and asked if she could borrow her shoes for 30 minutes. Carrie obliged and the temporary malfunction was avoided for the day.
I can only imagine what others have faced given the level of interviews, classes, and cases these days.
Earlier this week, I packed up my laptop, books, lunch and thought I had grabbed everything I needed, including my keys. I got to school to discover that I forgot my power cord for my laptop. While this would not be a problem for most, my laptop doesn't recognize that it has a battery, nonetheless stay on for more than a couple minutes.
It seems we all have our interview malfunctions and are creative in how to respond to them. I asked my roommate to bring my keys to school and borrowed a power cord from the technical support desk. Today, may take the cake on resourcefulness though. As a classmate walked down the hall, she broke her heel completely off, nearly 10 minutes prior to her interview. She yelled down the hall to Carrie, who works in the Career Development Center (CDC) and asked if she could borrow her shoes for 30 minutes. Carrie obliged and the temporary malfunction was avoided for the day.
I can only imagine what others have faced given the level of interviews, classes, and cases these days.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Interview Mania
And so it begins...today is the first real day for on campus interviews, though a few of my classmates and I have already kicked off the process. I think I have 3x the interviews I did last year, however, that doesn't calm the nerves of what if I don't get a job? I want to go to Sweden for Q3 without the dread that I will have to go recruiting in Q4. Fingers crossed, it won't be a problem!
My first interview today was for a leadership development program. The fluffy questions of tell me about a time when you had a difficult team challenge me more than they should. I essentially worked in a team environment for 4 years, but it was the same team. Had it been difficult, I would have left far before I did.
My second interview was odd. My interviewer is likely one of the people from the bank that I knew best. It poses a problem when you're trying to get into "interview" mode. Honestly, I'm not quite sure what to think.
My final interview went well, I think. At least better than yesterday's with the same firm. MY technicals were spot on and the voice was friendly. I guess we'll find out soon enough.
In other news, I'm attending the Reaching Out MBA Conference this weekend, which I haven't decided if it's a good or bad idea. Good because there are a ton of firms. Bad because I'm missing class and have interviews on Monday. A group of us are set to do the case competition as well, which I'm thinking was a horrible idea. I haven't had a break in weeks and my body is feeling it.
Good luck to all on interviews. Here's to finding a job!
My first interview today was for a leadership development program. The fluffy questions of tell me about a time when you had a difficult team challenge me more than they should. I essentially worked in a team environment for 4 years, but it was the same team. Had it been difficult, I would have left far before I did.
My second interview was odd. My interviewer is likely one of the people from the bank that I knew best. It poses a problem when you're trying to get into "interview" mode. Honestly, I'm not quite sure what to think.
My final interview went well, I think. At least better than yesterday's with the same firm. MY technicals were spot on and the voice was friendly. I guess we'll find out soon enough.
In other news, I'm attending the Reaching Out MBA Conference this weekend, which I haven't decided if it's a good or bad idea. Good because there are a ton of firms. Bad because I'm missing class and have interviews on Monday. A group of us are set to do the case competition as well, which I'm thinking was a horrible idea. I haven't had a break in weeks and my body is feeling it.
Good luck to all on interviews. Here's to finding a job!
Saturday, October 03, 2009
On the Horizon: Finals
Finals are around the corner and I'm not even close to ready. Ironically, I keep telling the first years that finals are one of the easiest times of year, at least that's how I felt. In contrast, this year if I'm not completing finals, I will be applying for jobs, researching jobs, prepping for interviews and then finishing that other list of things to do. (Grocery store, laundry, take my car in etc.)
I'm not sure where the first quarter went. I realized the other day that I managed to take a course in essentially 5 different subject areas, likely not something one does at a non-General Management school. The balance of information is fantastic. I suppose this will at least make the array of subjects similar to first year. On the other hand, the actual exams are quite different. First year, exams were approximately 5 hours long and had to be completed between 8a and 3p. Now, I have a group project which will be presented on Tuesday, a 15 min "dinner" speech followed by a paper reviewing my leadership presence, an 8 min self-running PowerPoint (with voice over optional) highlighting a combination of what I learned in the class and what I learned from the hour interview I have yet to conduct, and finally, 2 exams. (Wow, that was a run-on sentence!). The exams will be available on Wednesday and must be turned in by 4:30p next Tuesday, which is also when the paper and PowerPoint are due. The other presentations will take place on Monday and Tuesday.
I try my best not to feel stressed out. I know I need a release though I seem to always avoid that as I try to focus on the tasks at hand. I haven't been to the gym since I sprained my ankle 3 weeks ago. The number of times I've gone out can likely be counted on half a hand. My late nights have included more cover letters than drunken conversations of how to fix the world. I wonder what happened to my sense of release and if I'm just going to blow one of these days. All I hope at this moment is to finish my exams promptly so I only have to worry about the career search for a couple days. Fingers crossed!
I'm not sure where the first quarter went. I realized the other day that I managed to take a course in essentially 5 different subject areas, likely not something one does at a non-General Management school. The balance of information is fantastic. I suppose this will at least make the array of subjects similar to first year. On the other hand, the actual exams are quite different. First year, exams were approximately 5 hours long and had to be completed between 8a and 3p. Now, I have a group project which will be presented on Tuesday, a 15 min "dinner" speech followed by a paper reviewing my leadership presence, an 8 min self-running PowerPoint (with voice over optional) highlighting a combination of what I learned in the class and what I learned from the hour interview I have yet to conduct, and finally, 2 exams. (Wow, that was a run-on sentence!). The exams will be available on Wednesday and must be turned in by 4:30p next Tuesday, which is also when the paper and PowerPoint are due. The other presentations will take place on Monday and Tuesday.
I try my best not to feel stressed out. I know I need a release though I seem to always avoid that as I try to focus on the tasks at hand. I haven't been to the gym since I sprained my ankle 3 weeks ago. The number of times I've gone out can likely be counted on half a hand. My late nights have included more cover letters than drunken conversations of how to fix the world. I wonder what happened to my sense of release and if I'm just going to blow one of these days. All I hope at this moment is to finish my exams promptly so I only have to worry about the career search for a couple days. Fingers crossed!
Monday, September 28, 2009
Invite Lists, oh my!
It sounds all too familar as the whispers crowd the halls. The interview invite lists from the first round of resume drops are flooding in and many of us are waiting patiently for the "invited to interview" email. Applying to jobs on grounds is very different than off-grounds. On-grounds, you can see when an interview list has been received and there is no preformated "ding" email, just silence. Off-grounds, there's the typical, yeah, you were interesting and better luck next time "ding" email. I suppose the real difference I find is on-grounds, you can speculate that you didn't make the cut, yet until you hear someone else say they did, you don't really know.
The timing of recruiting this year is very different from last year. The idea that I could have an offer in hand by December excites and scares me. Exciting as then I could safely continue my quest to study abroad without the lingering thought of recruiting from Sweden. Scary because the offer is the beginning of the end of an incredible experience.
The list of jointly selected cities is sitting on the backburner right now. I suppose that's also frightful. On some level, I want the best job for me and my future that I can receive. On another level, I'm willing to make some sacrifices in the future. Leading me to wonder at the end of the day, for the first two years post business school, what's most important? Though "everything" sounds like a fine answer, what I've learned in business school is trade-offs and they exist everywhere.
The timing of recruiting this year is very different from last year. The idea that I could have an offer in hand by December excites and scares me. Exciting as then I could safely continue my quest to study abroad without the lingering thought of recruiting from Sweden. Scary because the offer is the beginning of the end of an incredible experience.
The list of jointly selected cities is sitting on the backburner right now. I suppose that's also frightful. On some level, I want the best job for me and my future that I can receive. On another level, I'm willing to make some sacrifices in the future. Leading me to wonder at the end of the day, for the first two years post business school, what's most important? Though "everything" sounds like a fine answer, what I've learned in business school is trade-offs and they exist everywhere.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Resume
My resume is the source of most of my anxiety these days. I spent all last year editing, sculpting and getting my resume to a point where I am comfortable. I am comfortable with the way it looks and the person it conveys. And here we go, time to rewrite. While I'm grateful for the internship I do have, I do wish the company believed in offers. It's been quite clear that the company hires for need and not before, so the chance of any of us getting an offer before April 2010 is slim, which means, I'm back on the market and my resume carries that much more weight.
So what did I do this summer? I'm struggling to answer that question. While I have fancy names for my projects that make sense internally, an outsider may simply be lost if I attempt to use them. Plus, I have space restrictions. I have an entire section that I can theoretically delete. However, that section shows a bit of me that the rest of my resume does not. This leaves me approximately 4 lines of text for my summer internship and lately I'm at a loss of words. Whenever I think I make sense, the outside world disagrees. I suppose the good news is that I have people willing to work with me. Although, the resume is due August 10th, so I need to work quickly.
So what did I do this summer? I'm struggling to answer that question. While I have fancy names for my projects that make sense internally, an outsider may simply be lost if I attempt to use them. Plus, I have space restrictions. I have an entire section that I can theoretically delete. However, that section shows a bit of me that the rest of my resume does not. This leaves me approximately 4 lines of text for my summer internship and lately I'm at a loss of words. Whenever I think I make sense, the outside world disagrees. I suppose the good news is that I have people willing to work with me. Although, the resume is due August 10th, so I need to work quickly.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Cloud 9
It's been a roller coaster week. Friday I returned to Atlanta for 2 interviews, only to receive the ding call, from my previous Atlanta trip, between them. Talk about timing! I think my break was all of an hour. Anyhow, after putting up a mild fight, as I said I would only go to Charlotte instead of Charlottesville if I had an internship, I gave in and ventured to Charlotte for the rest of the weekend. Overall, pleasant trip, though I've decided I have the stamina of a 4 year old when I'm NOT driving. Within an hour of being on the road, I was sound asleep. OOOooops.
And so this week began with me scouring the interweb for internship opportunities. I'll admit, the resurgence was definitely bringing down my morale. With 5 weeks left in the quarter, 2 vacations planned, I don't even know how to explain the anxiety that I was beginning to feel. But alas, there is mercy!
This mercy came as a phone call just minutes before 9pm tonight. Apparently, I now have a verbal internship offer, pending a credit check, which is the absolute least of my worries. I won't go into more details than I already have until I see the letter in writing, but as of this moment, I'm skyhigh and am wishing the week was further along.
BTW, I had to change the layout as it seems some of the previous links were broken. I'm still fussing with it and the layout will likely update again shortly.
And so this week began with me scouring the interweb for internship opportunities. I'll admit, the resurgence was definitely bringing down my morale. With 5 weeks left in the quarter, 2 vacations planned, I don't even know how to explain the anxiety that I was beginning to feel. But alas, there is mercy!
This mercy came as a phone call just minutes before 9pm tonight. Apparently, I now have a verbal internship offer, pending a credit check, which is the absolute least of my worries. I won't go into more details than I already have until I see the letter in writing, but as of this moment, I'm skyhigh and am wishing the week was further along.
BTW, I had to change the layout as it seems some of the previous links were broken. I'm still fussing with it and the layout will likely update again shortly.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Status Updates
It's just one of those days, you get two posts for the price of one! I have so much to say about life's happenings and yet, I don't seem to have time to sit down and write. One reader commented when I was in Spain asking how my interview went and where I was. Well, I was in Spain... living life to the fullest. As for the interview, it went well. I heard today that I am in a holding pattern. I suppose that is always better than the great reject. I interviewed well and my resume is with a couple of managers, so we are simply waiting for their verdict. I should know by next Friday, and trust me, I'm just as nervous as I was when I was waiting to hear from schools. That pattern never seems to die. (And perhaps just as excited about this prospect as I was about Darden...)
On another front, I landed two more interviews, which will be held at a conference in Atlanta this coming Friday. Both are great companies, so we will see how that goes. Crossing my fingers something works out though I don't think I've hit total breakdown yet. At the same time, I was contemplating the delayed timing of the process this year. We're still at approximately 50% offer rate. Typically I think we're more like 75% at this time of year. It isn't that I'm worried I won't find anything as I do know that I'm very capable. At this point, it's just a lot to juggle as I still have Q4 classes and in a "normal" year, I'd likely be done with the process. Of course, with the economy moving the way it is (yes, the Fed is actually going to buy US Treasuries!?!), I'm not sure normal will ever be as we remember it.
On another front, I landed two more interviews, which will be held at a conference in Atlanta this coming Friday. Both are great companies, so we will see how that goes. Crossing my fingers something works out though I don't think I've hit total breakdown yet. At the same time, I was contemplating the delayed timing of the process this year. We're still at approximately 50% offer rate. Typically I think we're more like 75% at this time of year. It isn't that I'm worried I won't find anything as I do know that I'm very capable. At this point, it's just a lot to juggle as I still have Q4 classes and in a "normal" year, I'd likely be done with the process. Of course, with the economy moving the way it is (yes, the Fed is actually going to buy US Treasuries!?!), I'm not sure normal will ever be as we remember it.
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Exams: Day Deux
Besides the fact that I had no idea what was going on in my strategy final today, I suppose it went well. Sometimes the vague questions don't give me enough direction. Of course, that's likely the point.
In other news, I received another interview invite for Friday, which I happily accepted. I spent some time last night trying to figure out what was the "right" way to tell last night's interviewing team that should I warrant a second round, Friday was no longer available. It's a thin line to walk as I don't want to sound pushy because that wasn't the case at all, though, I did want to give them the update or option should they want it.
I crashed a few minutes sub-9pm last night. I was exhausted after the exam and 2 interviews. I think the sleep is helping my cold and demeanor. However, going to bed early meant that I didn't make this important decision as to how to approach the interview on the table as well as a hopeful second round. Needless to say, this all came to a head about 10am this morning, in the middle of my exam. I had to wait until at least 7am west coast time before I could call the family and by then, I had to speak with mom and dad, individually, twice. Dad put it best, a bird in the hand is worth more than 2 in the bush. Although they were a good help, I'm sure the 30 minute break didn't help my focus on the exam.
Nonetheless, I'm off to Atalanta on Friday...
In other news, I received another interview invite for Friday, which I happily accepted. I spent some time last night trying to figure out what was the "right" way to tell last night's interviewing team that should I warrant a second round, Friday was no longer available. It's a thin line to walk as I don't want to sound pushy because that wasn't the case at all, though, I did want to give them the update or option should they want it.
I crashed a few minutes sub-9pm last night. I was exhausted after the exam and 2 interviews. I think the sleep is helping my cold and demeanor. However, going to bed early meant that I didn't make this important decision as to how to approach the interview on the table as well as a hopeful second round. Needless to say, this all came to a head about 10am this morning, in the middle of my exam. I had to wait until at least 7am west coast time before I could call the family and by then, I had to speak with mom and dad, individually, twice. Dad put it best, a bird in the hand is worth more than 2 in the bush. Although they were a good help, I'm sure the 30 minute break didn't help my focus on the exam.
Nonetheless, I'm off to Atalanta on Friday...
Monday, February 23, 2009
Bite-Size World
People claim six degrees of separation, though as social networking sites grow, I'm convinced it's less. I received an unexpected interview invite today. I had practically written off IB for the summer due to the market, but it seems the light is flickering again. With the exciting news, I decided to browse our directory for current alumni at the company, sure enough, someone who is one of my Facebook friends and an alum of Darden works for Oppenheimer. What are the chances?? This is why I say it's a bite-size world.
HC added me as a friend on Facebook when I first got into Darden. We're both Colorado alums and at the time, we were both living in SF. I thought nothing of the addition expect perchance another friend in the world. I was supposed to meet him and some of his buddies for drinks in SF during winter break, but the logistics didn't work out and now, I'm half kicking myself. Little did I know this person would end up being a great resource and friend. It's amazing how small connections can make all the difference.
In another instance, another person I'd met during business school application season is a Facebook friend of mine and sent me a number of job requisition numbers for Wells Fargo. One of the internships sounded fantastic. At the rate this market is going, perhaps the bite-size world will play to my advantage. Here's hoping.
This may additionally be a reason you should be nice to everyone!
HC added me as a friend on Facebook when I first got into Darden. We're both Colorado alums and at the time, we were both living in SF. I thought nothing of the addition expect perchance another friend in the world. I was supposed to meet him and some of his buddies for drinks in SF during winter break, but the logistics didn't work out and now, I'm half kicking myself. Little did I know this person would end up being a great resource and friend. It's amazing how small connections can make all the difference.
In another instance, another person I'd met during business school application season is a Facebook friend of mine and sent me a number of job requisition numbers for Wells Fargo. One of the internships sounded fantastic. At the rate this market is going, perhaps the bite-size world will play to my advantage. Here's hoping.
This may additionally be a reason you should be nice to everyone!
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Silence
I've been quiet all week, which is surprising given I have had a lot to write about. At times, I've thought of putting out a quick post, but didn't want to be presumptuous and write something I may later want to change.
Let's start with Monday. Monday kicked off interview season and I had 3 interviews. It was a busy day, but after a number of mocks, I had faith that I was going to make it the the second round. The worst part of Monday was the 3 hours between the last interview and when 2nd round calls commence. I got dinged by my first interview early, then dinged again by my number 1 choice, that I'll admit, I thought I nailed. Unfortunate! At six, I was ready to turn in for the night as reality hit and I knew I didn't get a second round with my 3rd interview. The roommate gave hugs and the bf came to lighten the mood. It took a while, but I eventually went to bed with a smile on my face and a new outlook, "fuck it."
Tuesday was less dramatic with only one interview. It went well though I won't know anything until Friday or Monday and it is a rather competitive group of interviewees. Crossing my fingers as I am very impressed by the bank and the people who work there.
That night a number of us convened at my apartment for what was deemed, "the banker support group" - more friends waiting to hear their fates. The two outliers in the group were the non-profit and the consultant, both of who have barely started interview season, as the rest of us see our season dwindle to nothing. My f-it moment from the night prior allowed me to be supportive and helpful though there's not a lot to say in that situation. There were those who also hit that same moment on Tuesday night as they saw their dreams of an iBank internship disappear. We heard it was a rough market, though I don't think anyone believed it. However, there were also those who were joyous on Tuesday night for their search is over and they now have a summer internship offer. (Shout out to those folks - Congrats) For the rest of us, it's search time - plan B is in effect.
Let's start with Monday. Monday kicked off interview season and I had 3 interviews. It was a busy day, but after a number of mocks, I had faith that I was going to make it the the second round. The worst part of Monday was the 3 hours between the last interview and when 2nd round calls commence. I got dinged by my first interview early, then dinged again by my number 1 choice, that I'll admit, I thought I nailed. Unfortunate! At six, I was ready to turn in for the night as reality hit and I knew I didn't get a second round with my 3rd interview. The roommate gave hugs and the bf came to lighten the mood. It took a while, but I eventually went to bed with a smile on my face and a new outlook, "fuck it."
Tuesday was less dramatic with only one interview. It went well though I won't know anything until Friday or Monday and it is a rather competitive group of interviewees. Crossing my fingers as I am very impressed by the bank and the people who work there.
That night a number of us convened at my apartment for what was deemed, "the banker support group" - more friends waiting to hear their fates. The two outliers in the group were the non-profit and the consultant, both of who have barely started interview season, as the rest of us see our season dwindle to nothing. My f-it moment from the night prior allowed me to be supportive and helpful though there's not a lot to say in that situation. There were those who also hit that same moment on Tuesday night as they saw their dreams of an iBank internship disappear. We heard it was a rough market, though I don't think anyone believed it. However, there were also those who were joyous on Tuesday night for their search is over and they now have a summer internship offer. (Shout out to those folks - Congrats) For the rest of us, it's search time - plan B is in effect.
Friday, January 09, 2009
Catching Up on the World
Interviews are 3 days away and besides prep, all I've done this week is read about the world. It's not that I haven't read about the world over the last semester or even year, but I need to be more prepared with my thoughts and opinions than ever before.
The resources that exist are incredible. The Wall Street Journal has some great articles on Madoff, December sales, the future of the economy, etc..., but what I'm enjoying the most is the email updates that get sent to my phone throughout the day for real-time updates on breaking news. In addition, BusinessWeek, which I think my mother ordered for me at some point this semester, has had me amazed. The latest article I read is about the shift of power from the cell phone carriers to the cell phone companies...all made possible my Apple.
I'm still brushing up on my technical knowledge and need to look over the behavioral questions once more, but with a number of mocks scheduled this weekend, I anticipate that I WILL be ready for Monday morning.
On another note, we have received Q2 grades and are slowly getting our tests back. Finance, GEM and Accounting were all very solid. I finished in the pool in regards to Marketing and Operations, however, I don't know if that's due to class contribution or exam grades. We'll see. Back to books.
The resources that exist are incredible. The Wall Street Journal has some great articles on Madoff, December sales, the future of the economy, etc..., but what I'm enjoying the most is the email updates that get sent to my phone throughout the day for real-time updates on breaking news. In addition, BusinessWeek, which I think my mother ordered for me at some point this semester, has had me amazed. The latest article I read is about the shift of power from the cell phone carriers to the cell phone companies...all made possible my Apple.
I'm still brushing up on my technical knowledge and need to look over the behavioral questions once more, but with a number of mocks scheduled this weekend, I anticipate that I WILL be ready for Monday morning.
On another note, we have received Q2 grades and are slowly getting our tests back. Finance, GEM and Accounting were all very solid. I finished in the pool in regards to Marketing and Operations, however, I don't know if that's due to class contribution or exam grades. We'll see. Back to books.
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Crunch Time
Interviews are on the horizon and I'm trying my best not to stress out, though, I'm feeling the crunch. My first interview is this Monday and I am not even close to prepared. Tomorrow, I have a mock interview with a career development rep and I've barely practiced my 2-minute story. I wonder where the last 2 weeks of break went and kick myself for being so apathetic. I needed the break and though I know that, it's hard not to be frustrated. Of course, what's done is done.
Yesterday and today were spent sitting in a classroom for Training the Street, which essentially is a crash course on valuation. It's been helpful and I can only anticipate that it'll help me answer technical questions during interviews.
Bid points for interviews were also submitted today. The closed lists are small and thus each company allots a small number of interview slots for bidders. This is you choosing a company instead of a company choosing you. We'll know after 1p which interviews we "won" and what the schedule will be for this coming week. Deciding how many points to bid had me flustered last night. I was lucky enough to be invited to a few interviews I wanted, but there's a sense of realism that hit as I stared at the recruiting history of the companies for which I was bidding. There are not an infinite number of offers out there and I fear that I will need to look somewhere else for an internship.
On a more positive note, the trip to Colorado was incredible. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect NYE with a great group of people. And it seems after 3 years off the slopes, I can still hold my own.
Yesterday and today were spent sitting in a classroom for Training the Street, which essentially is a crash course on valuation. It's been helpful and I can only anticipate that it'll help me answer technical questions during interviews.
Bid points for interviews were also submitted today. The closed lists are small and thus each company allots a small number of interview slots for bidders. This is you choosing a company instead of a company choosing you. We'll know after 1p which interviews we "won" and what the schedule will be for this coming week. Deciding how many points to bid had me flustered last night. I was lucky enough to be invited to a few interviews I wanted, but there's a sense of realism that hit as I stared at the recruiting history of the companies for which I was bidding. There are not an infinite number of offers out there and I fear that I will need to look somewhere else for an internship.
On a more positive note, the trip to Colorado was incredible. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect NYE with a great group of people. And it seems after 3 years off the slopes, I can still hold my own.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Back Home with the Big Kids
Home sweet home! You have no idea how great it felt to sleep in my own bed and have my own space after living out of a suitcase for 4 days. However, when I return to work, I always wonder if the break is worth the mound of paperwork on my desk and list of tasks I have to redo because someone didn't take the time to do them right. ARGH!
Anyhow...I know everyone is wondering... the interview. I'm happy I waited until today to write this post because I think I would have written a different story yesterday. The interview at Darden is indeed on one hand as lax as everyone says. It's a "conversation" in which the applicant does the majority of the talking and dictates the direction. You have one question to answer, tell me about yourself and what has driven you to make the decisions you have made. They want the WHY!
I started at the beginning which in retrospect may have been the right place, but seeing I didn't practice as I probably should have, I left out some important things about what I do and who I am today. There are things I mentioned, but I guess wanted to mention and move on, however, my interviewer was interested in why I did or did not do something, which all in all simply ate up time.
I took too long explaining how the company has changed and the small hand I have had in that instead of how I have changed processes and shaped a once undefined position in my company. Besides mentioning the name, I failed to mention anything else about my women's philanthropic group and how I essentially coordinate 60+ volunteers. Just silly on my part. She had trouble wrapping her head around the WHY MBA question. She suggested I go into operations somewhere else, which of course, I don't exactly want to do for the rest of my life - 4 years is enough. On one hand maybe she was challenging me as Darden is completely case based, of course on the other, perhaps she just didn't get it. Honestly it's hard to say.
I mentioned something about wanting a consulting job with an international twist. She asked why and I brought up globalization and my thoughts on China, which apparently didn't suffice as she mentioned I could have read that in the journal. Needless to say, she pushed a bit more and I kept coming back with new thoughts and insights.
Finally, we talked about WHY DARDEN. This was probably the easiest question there is and I NAILED it. At the end she mentioned how some of my comments about Colorado and my undergrad reminded her of Virginia and the Darden community. Hopefully this is a good sign.
I walked out of the room and was grabbed to attend another faculty lunch. I was happy that this time I sat at a table with a finance professor, but my mind was running 10,000 miles a minute and I'll admit, I was fried. I forewent food and listened to the conversation before me. At the time, I had no clear thought process and was out of questions to ask as I had probably used my last on my interviewer. I've spoken with and met so many friendly people at Darden that I don't know what else to ask anymore.
The rest of my day was spent trying to get home. I didn't even look at my itinerary to see what time I was supposed to be home, but someone did mention we were two hours late. Oh well. Over the course of the day, I was in contact with some delightful people and some not so delightful. As I boarded my last flight in Zone 2, I noticed a guy inching to the front of the line and he was Zone 1, so I told him he could go ahead. I was being courteous and figured he was going to ask somewhere along the line anyhow, he looked at me, told me he didn't need my permission, he was in Zone 1. I HATE when people feel entitlement.
Now the hurry up and wait process begins... February 1st is D-Day.
Anyhow...I know everyone is wondering... the interview. I'm happy I waited until today to write this post because I think I would have written a different story yesterday. The interview at Darden is indeed on one hand as lax as everyone says. It's a "conversation" in which the applicant does the majority of the talking and dictates the direction. You have one question to answer, tell me about yourself and what has driven you to make the decisions you have made. They want the WHY!
I started at the beginning which in retrospect may have been the right place, but seeing I didn't practice as I probably should have, I left out some important things about what I do and who I am today. There are things I mentioned, but I guess wanted to mention and move on, however, my interviewer was interested in why I did or did not do something, which all in all simply ate up time.
I took too long explaining how the company has changed and the small hand I have had in that instead of how I have changed processes and shaped a once undefined position in my company. Besides mentioning the name, I failed to mention anything else about my women's philanthropic group and how I essentially coordinate 60+ volunteers. Just silly on my part. She had trouble wrapping her head around the WHY MBA question. She suggested I go into operations somewhere else, which of course, I don't exactly want to do for the rest of my life - 4 years is enough. On one hand maybe she was challenging me as Darden is completely case based, of course on the other, perhaps she just didn't get it. Honestly it's hard to say.
I mentioned something about wanting a consulting job with an international twist. She asked why and I brought up globalization and my thoughts on China, which apparently didn't suffice as she mentioned I could have read that in the journal. Needless to say, she pushed a bit more and I kept coming back with new thoughts and insights.
Finally, we talked about WHY DARDEN. This was probably the easiest question there is and I NAILED it. At the end she mentioned how some of my comments about Colorado and my undergrad reminded her of Virginia and the Darden community. Hopefully this is a good sign.
I walked out of the room and was grabbed to attend another faculty lunch. I was happy that this time I sat at a table with a finance professor, but my mind was running 10,000 miles a minute and I'll admit, I was fried. I forewent food and listened to the conversation before me. At the time, I had no clear thought process and was out of questions to ask as I had probably used my last on my interviewer. I've spoken with and met so many friendly people at Darden that I don't know what else to ask anymore.
The rest of my day was spent trying to get home. I didn't even look at my itinerary to see what time I was supposed to be home, but someone did mention we were two hours late. Oh well. Over the course of the day, I was in contact with some delightful people and some not so delightful. As I boarded my last flight in Zone 2, I noticed a guy inching to the front of the line and he was Zone 1, so I told him he could go ahead. I was being courteous and figured he was going to ask somewhere along the line anyhow, he looked at me, told me he didn't need my permission, he was in Zone 1. I HATE when people feel entitlement.
Now the hurry up and wait process begins... February 1st is D-Day.
Monday, January 07, 2008
Crazy Coincidences
It's been a pleasant day in Charlottesville, VA. You can't beat the 70 degree weather we've had today! I arrived on campus around 10:30 am. I'm definitely glad I planned a day to get acquainted with C'ville and Darden. I asked admissions for a self guided tour packet and needless to say, I ended up on a student led tour, the first one Michael had ever given. It was splendid in a crash course type of way. Furthermore, Darden has the prettiest parking garage I have ever laid eyes on, it could be and probably has been mistaken for a Darden classroom building. The group I joined was compiled of fellow applicants and they are just as brilliant as the rest of the Dardenites I met today. After our tour, we congregated in Abbott hall for lunch with a few faculty members. Unfortunately, there were not enough to go around, so Sara Nehler (director of admissions) sat at my table, she too was delightful. I get an incredible warm fuzzy feeling as I think about my interaction with everyone today. But here is where it starts to get weird. (In a good way)
I'm walking to the dessert table and Nikki walks up to me and goes... aren't you the girl to whom I sold my GMAT books? Yes, yes indeed I am. I bought 7 GMAT books back in March before I embarked on this crazy journey. The Brit gave me 10 min of her time, which proved to be very rewarding, but as I was almost late for soccer, I had to bid her adieu and moved on quickly. So here we are, months later, both at Darden, both interviewing, and both without local friends or accomplices. I walked with her through another tour as I had time to kill before meeting Elizabeth at 3 pm in the PepsiCo Forum. Nikki said she'd ring later and we could make plans. As I sat in the rotunda of the PepsiCo Forum, through the doorway I watched some sort of skit. Five guys, each carrying one shoe, singing something about their boot, moving about their table... as you can imagine, it was quite comical and it made me feel right at home.
Elizabeth arrived at a few after 3 o'clock and because her classes had gotten a little jumbled, she was unable to stay long. Elizabeth has been my one-to-one correspondent at Darden since September. We've emailed and she's been a great source of advice like most the Darden staff. I left her and drove around town a little more until Nikki called. We agreed to meet at her hotel at 6 pm and head downtown.
Though I purchased books from Nikki, I didn't know much about her, but we talked like old college buddies that hadn't seen each other in years. Somehow, we started discussing our ages. She asked my birth month, same as hers, birth day, same as hers, and of course, SAME YEAR! Ok, you must admit that's freaky. Additionally, I have always believed that Cancers have this instant connection, yep, she brought that up and we discussed the astrological side for a few moments. After dinner we decided on ice cream for dessert, ordered the same one, Mint Chip. Just a bit strange at this point.
Next she and I met two Darden alums for drinks as she has a good friend who attended Darden about 4 years ago. One of them informed me of three buzz words to use in the Darden interview, Case Method, the Network, and something I have failed to remember at the moment. There again, if you truly know Darden, those words shouldn't be hard to recall. On that note, I'm signing off as the big day is tomorrow. I've been told the interview is simply a conversation and I don't doubt that. Darden simply wants to know more about you and what makes YOU tick. I'm looking forward to it!!
I'm walking to the dessert table and Nikki walks up to me and goes... aren't you the girl to whom I sold my GMAT books? Yes, yes indeed I am. I bought 7 GMAT books back in March before I embarked on this crazy journey. The Brit gave me 10 min of her time, which proved to be very rewarding, but as I was almost late for soccer, I had to bid her adieu and moved on quickly. So here we are, months later, both at Darden, both interviewing, and both without local friends or accomplices. I walked with her through another tour as I had time to kill before meeting Elizabeth at 3 pm in the PepsiCo Forum. Nikki said she'd ring later and we could make plans. As I sat in the rotunda of the PepsiCo Forum, through the doorway I watched some sort of skit. Five guys, each carrying one shoe, singing something about their boot, moving about their table... as you can imagine, it was quite comical and it made me feel right at home.
Elizabeth arrived at a few after 3 o'clock and because her classes had gotten a little jumbled, she was unable to stay long. Elizabeth has been my one-to-one correspondent at Darden since September. We've emailed and she's been a great source of advice like most the Darden staff. I left her and drove around town a little more until Nikki called. We agreed to meet at her hotel at 6 pm and head downtown.
Though I purchased books from Nikki, I didn't know much about her, but we talked like old college buddies that hadn't seen each other in years. Somehow, we started discussing our ages. She asked my birth month, same as hers, birth day, same as hers, and of course, SAME YEAR! Ok, you must admit that's freaky. Additionally, I have always believed that Cancers have this instant connection, yep, she brought that up and we discussed the astrological side for a few moments. After dinner we decided on ice cream for dessert, ordered the same one, Mint Chip. Just a bit strange at this point.
Next she and I met two Darden alums for drinks as she has a good friend who attended Darden about 4 years ago. One of them informed me of three buzz words to use in the Darden interview, Case Method, the Network, and something I have failed to remember at the moment. There again, if you truly know Darden, those words shouldn't be hard to recall. On that note, I'm signing off as the big day is tomorrow. I've been told the interview is simply a conversation and I don't doubt that. Darden simply wants to know more about you and what makes YOU tick. I'm looking forward to it!!
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Road to Charlottesville
My flight was scheduled to fly out on Friday at 3:30 pm, but due to our insane weather system that I'm sure most of you know more about than I, I was delayed 2.5 hours. I'll admit, the delay was not particularly welcomed as I had worked my tooshie off the first 3 days of the new year in order to complete quarterly statements/bills, update my firm's financials and forecast out the next year. However, I had a chance to talk with a few very interesting people during my delay. I spoke at length with both pilots, a family from Baltimore, another lady that has bi-coastal residences, and a guy who is a consultant teaching communications. As I spoke about the purpose of my trip to the east coast I felt more prepared for my interview. It may sound silly, but in a way, each of these conversations was it's own interview and because I have heard about the relaxed environment of Darden's interview, I got a little giddy.
Mack picked me up from the airport around 2 am east coast time and we headed back to her house for a catch up session. Saturday was lax and we definitely prolonged getting out of bed until we were both so hungry, we couldn't stand it. After our late lunch, we went shopping in Georgetown - GREAT sales. I bought a new suit, although after careful consideration I've decided to stick with the suit I brought for my interview. Saturday night we went to Ballroom in Arlington where a live cover band was playing. Excellent!! The lead singer had an unbelievable voice and sang both female and male songs. I also had the pleasure of meeting Les and her friend Gab. Les and I went to college together at Boulder and unfortunately, I haven't seen her much over the last 4 years. It was a perfect night out with the girls followed by some late night eats.
Today, I picked up my rental and headed here, to Charlottesville. Virginia is beautiful! And I actually like the sight of barren trees and the dried look of the grass. I know I will return home and notice how green it is, which is what I always did in college, but I do miss the change of the seasons. I drove through the UVA campus on my way to the hotel and it is breathtaking. I chose to stay downtown, but seeing I'm only here for two nights, I don't think it really matters. I walked the downtown pedestrian mall, which reminds me of Pearl Street in Boulder though shorter and a little more closed down. Of course, that could be because I presume most students haven't returned yet. I did grab ice cream after dinner and it was to DIE FOR! I have a bad sweet tooth... and this definitely hit the spot. HOMEMADE!
Tomorrow I will explore more and visit Darden. There are a lot of OPTIONAL things to do while I'm here including lunch with the faculty. I also plan on meeting with Elizabeth, my one to one correspondent. She has class tomorrow, so I think we're meeting in the PepsiCenter at 3 pm. I did email the alumni coordinator who I met in SF during the Darden reception, but I haven't heard back. We'll see... I'm definitely excited to be here. But most importantly, I need to find somewhere with good pancakes tomorrow morning. ;)
Mack picked me up from the airport around 2 am east coast time and we headed back to her house for a catch up session. Saturday was lax and we definitely prolonged getting out of bed until we were both so hungry, we couldn't stand it. After our late lunch, we went shopping in Georgetown - GREAT sales. I bought a new suit, although after careful consideration I've decided to stick with the suit I brought for my interview. Saturday night we went to Ballroom in Arlington where a live cover band was playing. Excellent!! The lead singer had an unbelievable voice and sang both female and male songs. I also had the pleasure of meeting Les and her friend Gab. Les and I went to college together at Boulder and unfortunately, I haven't seen her much over the last 4 years. It was a perfect night out with the girls followed by some late night eats.
Today, I picked up my rental and headed here, to Charlottesville. Virginia is beautiful! And I actually like the sight of barren trees and the dried look of the grass. I know I will return home and notice how green it is, which is what I always did in college, but I do miss the change of the seasons. I drove through the UVA campus on my way to the hotel and it is breathtaking. I chose to stay downtown, but seeing I'm only here for two nights, I don't think it really matters. I walked the downtown pedestrian mall, which reminds me of Pearl Street in Boulder though shorter and a little more closed down. Of course, that could be because I presume most students haven't returned yet. I did grab ice cream after dinner and it was to DIE FOR! I have a bad sweet tooth... and this definitely hit the spot. HOMEMADE!
Tomorrow I will explore more and visit Darden. There are a lot of OPTIONAL things to do while I'm here including lunch with the faculty. I also plan on meeting with Elizabeth, my one to one correspondent. She has class tomorrow, so I think we're meeting in the PepsiCenter at 3 pm. I did email the alumni coordinator who I met in SF during the Darden reception, but I haven't heard back. We'll see... I'm definitely excited to be here. But most importantly, I need to find somewhere with good pancakes tomorrow morning. ;)
Monday, December 31, 2007
The Details
I'm a week out from my Darden interview and I must admit, I'm a bit nervous. For some reason, I have a strong feeling about Darden and things working out, but I can't explain it any better than that. Of course, it could be a false sense of security and simply hope on my part. Ever since I walked into the San Francisco information session, I've had a comfort feeling when it comes to the people at Darden and I'm hoping it works out. I still have yet to hear from Ross and although they say Ross can still request an interview, my outlook is glum. I await a decision from Georgetown as well. I have confidence in my essays, but don't feel as strong about my interview. Definitely something I would have changed in my process...interview after essay completion.
I have my flight booked to BWI on Friday and I'll be hanging with Mack in DC this weekend. It should be a blast, but I have to make sure I don't go overboard with the alcohol on Saturday night (not that I ever do). Sunday, I pick up my rental car from the DCA airport and drive the supposed 2 hours to Charlottesville. As of this moment, I have yet to book a hotel, which is my goal today before I head out this evening. Sunday, I don't have plans and Monday, I plan on exploring Charlottesville and the UVA campus (any suggestions would be greatly appreciated). I figure on Monday night, I'll find a local pub and watch the national championship. Tuesday, I have down time in the morning and then my interview is at 11 am. Finally, my flight home is out of the Charlottesville airport at 4 pm.
My interview preparation has been nonexistent. Yesterday, I printed all my essays and added them to my packet of Darden information I had printed a few weeks ago. After some searching, I found the Darden brochure mixed in with a stack of brochures I haven't touched in months. I've read through all my correspondence with Darden staff, students, and alum. Next up, review notes I took at the information session and start writing down MY story. What do I want to say about myself in the 20 minutes or so I am given to talk? Of course, this depends on if the interview is blind or not. I shouldn't cover similar topics to my essays if they've already been read. At that point, I need to disclose 'additional' information. Time to prepare for both scenarios!
Happy 2008!
I have my flight booked to BWI on Friday and I'll be hanging with Mack in DC this weekend. It should be a blast, but I have to make sure I don't go overboard with the alcohol on Saturday night (not that I ever do). Sunday, I pick up my rental car from the DCA airport and drive the supposed 2 hours to Charlottesville. As of this moment, I have yet to book a hotel, which is my goal today before I head out this evening. Sunday, I don't have plans and Monday, I plan on exploring Charlottesville and the UVA campus (any suggestions would be greatly appreciated). I figure on Monday night, I'll find a local pub and watch the national championship. Tuesday, I have down time in the morning and then my interview is at 11 am. Finally, my flight home is out of the Charlottesville airport at 4 pm.
My interview preparation has been nonexistent. Yesterday, I printed all my essays and added them to my packet of Darden information I had printed a few weeks ago. After some searching, I found the Darden brochure mixed in with a stack of brochures I haven't touched in months. I've read through all my correspondence with Darden staff, students, and alum. Next up, review notes I took at the information session and start writing down MY story. What do I want to say about myself in the 20 minutes or so I am given to talk? Of course, this depends on if the interview is blind or not. I shouldn't cover similar topics to my essays if they've already been read. At that point, I need to disclose 'additional' information. Time to prepare for both scenarios!
Happy 2008!
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Family and Friends
Please excuse any scatter brained ideas as I presume I had one too many glasses of wine last night.
The holidays are slowly coming to a close, although for whatever reason, I haven't felt like they were here. Of course with 2 Christmas trees, packages galore, a 20 pound turkey, and holly hanging with our staircase, it's difficult to say that it doesn't look like Christmas.
Yesterday, my brother and I rolled out of bed sometime sub 11 am. My parents had been up for hours making stuffing and getting our gigantic turkey ready for the oven. We opened presents as a family, which is always fun because we concentrate more on the laughter than the actual gifts. However, I scored big with the capri length hot chilly's I got dad for Christmas. My brother's gift to each of us may have been the best yet, a picture of him, at 23 years and 6'3", in a red shirt and Santa hat, sitting on the "real" Santa's lap. PRICELESS! Next, we cleaned up and made breakfast as a family. Dad manned the bacon, I made pancakes, mom picked up the wrapping paper, and my brother shuffled bags downstairs to the garbage. Great group effort! For a quick second, my brother and I argued over who would peel potatoes and who would cut green beans, but the time ended up being about even, so I suppose it didn't matter. I must admit, it was fun working together. Specifically entertaining to watch my brother inspect the green beans and trash the ones that HE wouldn't eat.
Dinner was at an early hour of 4. We had a friend's family of three join us and my straggling friend AA. Invitations were accepted by a few other friends, but at the last minute, they decided not to join us, which was a bit rude in my opinion, but it still worked out well. After dinner, with beer and wine in hand (depending on the individual), the younger generation took to the pool table for what became multiple games. Definitely a grand time! Overall, I couldn't have asked for a better Christmas with family and friends! Next up, NYE, for which I haven't currently solidified plans.
Also on the horizon, Darden interview, for which I need to start preparing. Lately, I have been on the lazy side - both for grad school as well as the gym. Granted, the gym is because of my unrelenting injuries. Conversely, I need to focus on this interview because it would be nice to respond with an "I've been accepted..." when someone asks which grad school I will attend. People seem so surprised when you indicate how long the process is. Furthermore, I fly out to DC on Jan 4th and highly doubt I will get any work done in DC. Thus, I have about a week to prepare with NYE and a weekend in the mix...
The holidays are slowly coming to a close, although for whatever reason, I haven't felt like they were here. Of course with 2 Christmas trees, packages galore, a 20 pound turkey, and holly hanging with our staircase, it's difficult to say that it doesn't look like Christmas.
Yesterday, my brother and I rolled out of bed sometime sub 11 am. My parents had been up for hours making stuffing and getting our gigantic turkey ready for the oven. We opened presents as a family, which is always fun because we concentrate more on the laughter than the actual gifts. However, I scored big with the capri length hot chilly's I got dad for Christmas. My brother's gift to each of us may have been the best yet, a picture of him, at 23 years and 6'3", in a red shirt and Santa hat, sitting on the "real" Santa's lap. PRICELESS! Next, we cleaned up and made breakfast as a family. Dad manned the bacon, I made pancakes, mom picked up the wrapping paper, and my brother shuffled bags downstairs to the garbage. Great group effort! For a quick second, my brother and I argued over who would peel potatoes and who would cut green beans, but the time ended up being about even, so I suppose it didn't matter. I must admit, it was fun working together. Specifically entertaining to watch my brother inspect the green beans and trash the ones that HE wouldn't eat.
Dinner was at an early hour of 4. We had a friend's family of three join us and my straggling friend AA. Invitations were accepted by a few other friends, but at the last minute, they decided not to join us, which was a bit rude in my opinion, but it still worked out well. After dinner, with beer and wine in hand (depending on the individual), the younger generation took to the pool table for what became multiple games. Definitely a grand time! Overall, I couldn't have asked for a better Christmas with family and friends! Next up, NYE, for which I haven't currently solidified plans.
Also on the horizon, Darden interview, for which I need to start preparing. Lately, I have been on the lazy side - both for grad school as well as the gym. Granted, the gym is because of my unrelenting injuries. Conversely, I need to focus on this interview because it would be nice to respond with an "I've been accepted..." when someone asks which grad school I will attend. People seem so surprised when you indicate how long the process is. Furthermore, I fly out to DC on Jan 4th and highly doubt I will get any work done in DC. Thus, I have about a week to prepare with NYE and a weekend in the mix...
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