hoosier girl

The Great White North

2010-08-08T18:11:00.000-07:00

I know I am a horrible blogger - my last real post was back in April and its August now. I promise I will be better, and with my internship wrapping up my schedule should allow for more posting.

So since school adjourned:
Spent a good 2 weeks in San Diego with the family - got to meet my new nephew, eat tons of delicious food I have missed and just chilled
Went to Lake Powell - it had been so long since my last trip (6 years). It was great to just veg, play games, read and get some sun
Took an impromptu trip to the UK - me the girl who plans everything...just hopped on a plane with 2 weeks notice and had a blast putzing around England, Scotland and Wales.
Moved to Minneapolis! - Packed up the cat and all my junk for the 10 hr drive
Worked the last 8 weeks in Target's Decorative Home Division - working my tail off on my project that spans 10 categories

I had some fun and some trying times - but I wouldn't have expected anything less. I have pushed myself to a level that I didn't know I could work to, couldn't have asked for more.

Just got to push through...will be over before I know it. Hello, Good Buy!

What Happened?!

2010-04-07T07:23:00.000-07:00

It's almost been a month since my last post, that is completely unacceptable! Even if you consider that I have no time for myself, let alone time for blogging. So I will try to bring you up to speed without the whining, and try to make it as brief as possible.

Where did we last leave off? I was in Israel, or Jordan, being bussed through the desert. The trip was amazing, I got to see so many things that people wait their whole lives to see. Meanwhile, learning about business and culture. And I think I have eaten my lifetime quota of pita bread.

The trip was a whirlwind, but I didn't expect the tsunami that the second 7 would bring! 4 new classes, to be topped with a redo of our KIP presentation and residual CMA project work. Doesn't sound too bad right? You had 8 classes at a time in Core, this should be a piece of cake! WRONG! With the responsibilities of Kelley Women, SAC, my parents in town (thanks Mom and Dad for the bed & all the dinners) I am getting 4-5 hours of sleep a night. Addie has been pretty depressed as we are gone all the time. The weather has been fantastic and she has hardly been able to enjoy it.

So where does that leave us? With 2 1/2 days before the end of the week, I have:

3 more team meetings
3 more class sessions
SAC meeting
A presentation
Experience Weekend activities

Pray for me!

Say hello to Maccabi Tel Aviv's newest cheerleader

2010-03-15T23:01:00.001-07:00

After a long day of company visits yesterday we had a little fun at the Afula v. Tel Aviv basketball game. That's where I learned all my new cheerleading moves! Maccabi barely won, just by one point. It was an interesting game as the fans were crazy and really into it, and there were all sorts of guards everywhere.

We visited Plasson, a plastic manufacturer, where we got a tour and learned about Kibbutz life. Then we went to Iscar, a metalworks maker. Long day! Although today sounds longer, ugh!

On the Sea of Galilee

2010-03-15T00:53:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was a long day, we got up really early and headed to Nazareth. We got to see the Church of Annunciation, which was a modern church built over Mary's cave. The church had gorgeous contemporary stained glass and mosaics of Mary from each country.

After the visiting the church we had a walking tour of the streets of Nazareth through the old souk and Mary's well.

Then we had about 2 hours in Tiberias, a seaside resort town. It had some bustling street stalls (Charlton and I got falafel and delicious strawberries) we also walked the boardwalk.

Next up another long bus ride to the Mount of Beatitudes and the Church of Bread and Fish where we had a long hike through some San Diego like hills.

Then off to Mt. Bernal (an IDF lookout point) where we had sweeping views of Jordan and Syria. Before checking into our hotel we stopped at the Golan Winery to taste some of their wines, yum! (Even though I don't drink)

Then we had a nice little dinner party in our MBA directors room where we all could get together and relax over great food. But again another early night as we have a packed day today!

Heading North

2010-03-13T21:59:00.001-08:00

After a few packed days in Jerusalem: visiting the Western Wall, going through the Kotel tunnels and going to museums, we are heading to the North of Israel to Nazareth and Galilee.

It's going to be a long day on the bus.

We're in Israel!

2010-03-09T21:42:00.000-08:00

After what seemed like forever, we are here! We haven't got to see much as we got in so late and a few of my classmates were detained (helping us get to the hotel a little late) So after a meet and greet with the guide and dinner we strolled along the Med and then went to bed. Now we have a packed full day ahead of us and I can't wait to see Tel Aviv!

For Charlton's recap and some pictures check it out here:

http://www.thelejo.com/2010/03/international-arrivals-tel-aviv.html

Built Strong to Last Long, or at Least that is what we told Creative

2010-03-02T21:07:00.000-08:00

Day 2 of Academy Week was a presentation on working with agencies and creative. It was a really helpful session to help understand the relationship between BMs and creative and how to get the best work out of them. We learned about what makes up a creative brief, and then were put into groups to analyze a print ad and reverse engineer the creative brief. Each team then presented to the academy so we could dissect the brief and see which ad best fit. And as our presenter, Eric Bauchet, was from Whirlpool the day would not have been complete without some Maytag ads and comparison to LG, GE and Electrolux in the space.

After a quick lunch break, we got a preview of Jonlee's M537 Channels class with a discussion of the retail and manufacturer relationship. Going into retail myself this was an incredibly valuable presentation and I learned a lot of things I can apply this summer (GMROI, etc) I am really excited for the full length class in the fall.

After we wrapped up for the day, my team met for 3 hours or so to go over where we stood on our project. We assigned tasks and banged out a lot in the time we allotted then headed home to do the last of our "WHO" research. I grabbed a quick dinner of a salad and a Lean Cuisine (no I am not being healthy, I am stressed and have snacked all night!) and got to work. I read over 20 articles on Japanese consumer behavior before coming up with a one pager for my team tomorrow. Not looking forward to everything we still have to do! Tomorrow will be a busy day!

Innovation and Ideation

2010-03-01T20:31:00.000-08:00

Today was the kickoff of our second Academy Week. Our speaker was Ralph Blessing, Managing Director of Chicago Office and Senior Partner at GfK Strategic Innovation. He talked about his career and some of the amazing products he had a chance to work on: Coppertone Sport Continuous Spray, Degree Antiperspirant, and Axe to just name a few. He explained the needs approach that GfK uses to help develop products to fill in shelf "white space." It was a really great presentation and it got even more interesting when we went through the process to create a new product. We picked Quick Service Restaurants as our category and then just brainstormed ideas, concepts and positioning. Look for our Mediterranean/Tapas QSR soon with our own branded olive oil and hummus (which we will expand into grocery) soon!

After we finished our scheduled activities we were able to work on our team projects...my team split up and worked on our own, we should come back together tomorrow ready to knock this out of the park.

Can't wait!

2010-03-01T15:03:00.001-08:00

for the Bloomington P-Fresh! It can't get here soon enough, now I will no longer have to leave my beloved Target, hooray!

Holding on for Dear Life

2010-02-27T21:40:00.000-08:00

The last two weeks have been intense. I don't even know where to start, last week seems like a year ago and the week before (gala, etc. even longer!) Finals have been killer with the wrap up of my Tiffany & Co. brand valuation and recommendation, my market research analysis report, KIP presentation, Diesel brand valuation, CMA project work and an accounting final. Phew! Makes me tired to even write it out!

And it hasn't just been schoolwork tying me up; there has been volunteering, Kelley Women Speaker Series, Pilates, Yoga, Dinner with Friends, researching Japanese cooking at the Asian Cultural Center, Carnival, Kelley Women farewell dinner, blogging for school, and trying to have some semblance of a life (watching the Olympics with Charlton and the pets)

Both of us are really burnt out, was it possible to be more exhausted than when we were in Core?! Any 2nd year that said this would be easier was definitely lying.

So to try to make up for the torture of the last few weeks...I slept in (after having fallen asleep on the couch until 6 am), then I did a little research for CMA, made lunch, gave Addie a bath, did a little laundry, took Addie to the dog park and watched Public Enemies after picking up some Mexican food from La Torre.

I wish I could sit around all day tomorrow, but still have some laundry left to do and some reading for Academy Week 2 (ugh!) Can't wait for spring break in Israel.

Gala!

2010-02-14T20:04:00.000-08:00

No matter how old you are, when you are in school there will always be school dances. Gala, the MBA equivalent of prom was last night in the IMU's Alumni Hall. There was an open bar, gambling and a nice seated dinner and HOURS and HOURS of dancing. It was a lot of fun, but having just got back from Minneapolis, I felt like I wasn't able to get much done this weekend. Oh well, sometimes you just got to cut loose.

I'm going to make it after all...

2010-02-14T19:36:00.000-08:00

Mary did it, and hopefully I will be able to make it in Minneapolis myself.

Summer Preview Day at Target was an amazing experience! It reminded me of Kelley's Experience weekend, a lot of excitement, and a lot of people still on the fence. We met some great potential intern classmates from Kellogg, Ross and Minnesota.

We had breakfast all together and then a director came and spoke to us about his experiences and his internship project. Then there was an internship panel and breakout sessions so we can learn more about the internship projects. Next up was lunch with senior leadership; me, I sat next to a Vice President...pinch me! After I finished up my bullseye cupcake, we loaded up on a bus to get a tour of the Minneapolis area. It was a lot of fun and I am really excited to explore the city more when I get there this summer, there is so much to do and see! Last stop...our corporate housing! The apartment was nice and spacious, with lots of closet space. What more does a girl need?!

A great visit, that definitely pumped me up for the summer. Is it June 14th yet? MSP, I will be back!

MSP

2010-02-11T20:44:00.000-08:00

I am sitting in my own hotel room downtown Minneapolis. Somebody pinch me! Me and 4 of my classmates are here to visit Target for our Summer Preview Day and to learn more about what we will be doing over the summer.

We left Bloomington after going to Market Research and then got here right before dinner. We used the opportunity to get something tasty that we wouldn't be able to get back in Bloomington. Seared Organic Salmon at Zelo, yum!

It has been great so far and we haven't even been to Target yet. Cannot wait!

Monday Flashback

2010-02-09T12:15:00.000-08:00

I was up bright and early to take my first midterm/quiz for this semester. 15 multiple choice questions of cost accounting goodness. I think I did okay, finally was able to get answers that were choices (which I am hoping is a good thing!)

Next up, Brand Management. We talked about Azko Nobel, a case on brand portfolios and finding the right size and number of brands. It was interesting and had more information than I have ever seen in a case.

I headed to Kroger after I got out of class and stocked up on the necessities. I quickly unloaded all of the food stuffs and took care of Addie before heading back to school. Our KIP had another Hebrew lesson and a humanities professor speak.

Then home again, where I got almost nothing done before turning in for the night at midnight.

Fun at Kelley!

2010-02-09T11:51:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I got to witness my first flash mob in the Kelley atrium. During Coffee Break a bunch of my classmates just started dancing. Our program chair got involved and our really good friend was part of the mob (he didn't even tell us!) It was really cool, watch it for yourself here:

I am in the back with my white backpack (you can see the straps if you look really hard!)

Catching Up

2010-02-07T09:22:00.000-08:00

Things have been crazy, definitely not easier than last semester. Way too many teams, projects and things going on. Trying to keep up with what is going on with market research so I can run chi-square tables and knowing what Japanese are cooking in their kitchens and the price differential between Tiffany's sterling silver and the generics at Blue Nile. Exciting huh? It has been a whirlwind.

If it wasn't for outlook I wouldn't know where I have been, where I am or where I am going.

Friday was one of my first Friday in a long time that I didn't have CMA, it allowed me to relax at home and to get a jump start on the mountain of homework. I also mocked a classmate for the first time. She is interested in going into retail and I was the first person she thought of :) We also took the car in for a much needed oil change, its needed it for awhile.

We got some snow over the weekend so we have pretty much camped out in the apartment over the weekend. Didn't help we both had stomach aches yesterday and weren't too excited to go out.

This morning we went to my cohort teammate's baby blessing at his church. It was really special and I am glad to have been able to share in it. One of those moments I know I wouldn't have if we hadn't been at Kelley.

And now instead of staring at my accounting until I go crazy, I am taking a much needed break to FINALLY watch my Christmas present...Julie and Julia. ooh la la.

Then its off to watch the Super Bowl at Wayne Winston's and then our friends. Go Saints!

It's Thursday?

2010-02-04T07:34:00.000-08:00

Where has this week gone? I had every intention of blogging all this week, but like life it got away from me. I am on my way to class and then have a meeting with my Academy directors to discuss our CMA project and then I should have the rest of the afternoon and evening to myself. So a real update should be coming soon...I promise!

Ladies Dinner Club - XXX Version

2010-02-01T20:38:00.000-08:00

That's why we have the Ladies' Dinner Club! It gives us first years a chance to get together once a month, and try a new restaurant or do something fun. Because it doesn't matter if you are an MBA student, a mother, etc. you need time to just be a girl and hang out with your girlfriends!

We had January's Ladies' Dinner Club at a classmate's home where she made the main dish (a wonderful chicken!) and the rest of us brought appetizers, salads and desserts. I have eaten so much great food since being back in Bloomington, my classmates are amazing cooks and bakers!

While we were all socializing in the kitchen index cards were put on the table so we could ask anonymous questions to our guest for the evening, Debby Herbenick Ph.D. of Human Sexuality at IU. We had a great discussion, a lot of fun, and definitely learned a lot.

Definitely a fun way to spend a Saturday night!

Manic Monday

2010-02-01T20:20:00.000-08:00

Day started at 6 when my Blackberry started chirping. *Time to get up!* I straightened my hair and then grabbed a few more minutes of sleep before stumbling out to the kitchen to feed Addie.

I grabbed my laptop and got to writing some emails while I watched the Golden Globes' Red Carpet (they were on Sunday?! Where have I been?!) I made a salad for lunch, packed it up and got a bunch of work done. Then off to school to start my marathon day.

Monday's are always packed, 3 classes my most all week. But on top of that I had 2 team meetings and an informational interview I did for a project. Kelley Women had a bunch going on today too, as our budget was due to MBAA and we are trying to update our website.

Tonight's KIP has been my favorite so far, we had a professor speak to us about the Israeli Special Forces and their selection process, so cool.

Didn't get home until 8ish or so and then it was time to catch up on emails and finish up a few projects. I have a bit more that I had wanted to get done but I am planning on getting up early again tomorrow...and the whole process starts all over again!

Why I love my Brand Management Class...

2010-02-01T20:10:00.000-08:00

Because Professor Morgan puts the following picture up on the projector. Genius! We spent 30 minutes discussing the issues with Apple's latest release and the fact that their real tag line, tell the customer nothing. Do they know what the device is supposed to do? Who is the customer? Is the idea to just put it out there and see how the customers use it (and who actually buys it) and then market to do that?

With my brother and my dad HUGE Apple fans it was great to hear someone stick to Steve Jobs, and critique the company's strategy. I look forward to seeing how this will be positioned in 6 months and see if all the negative associations the name has (by itself) is erased as Morgan predicts.

Internship - check, Schoolwork - ??

2010-02-01T05:39:00.000-08:00

Everyone thinks I am on easy street now, my dream internship under my belt and the rest of the semester should be smooth sailing right? Um, no. Now that we are out of the core the number of teams I am on has grown exponentially (from one to four!) and now that I have a leadership role in Kelley Women, that seems to fill in any of the space not already allocated to school projects.

Accounting thankfully is not a lot of group work, but we have lots of cases to prepare for every class. Thankfully, for me Charlton is forced to take the same class so I have a study buddy at home to make sure I am not allocating costs to projects based on some silly driver like times they turned on the light switch.

Brand Management has a fairly in-depth project where we value a brand. My team (of 6) is valuing Tiffany. We have to look at the consumer perceptions and then a few different valuation methods. The good thing about having a team so large is we can have mini-projects within the project. Each pair has their own valuation, mine being product based. We also have a survey we all created to gauge customer preferences, so if you are reading this and want to help out...click here.

Market Research has a project too, teams of only 4, but so far it seems fairly straightforward. It is more of an exercise to get us using SPSS so our professor is walking us through it. Perfect!

Then there is my KIP class where we have teams of five to work on case write-ups and our industry presentation in a few weeks. Our first case write-up was on the Israeli Special Forces and really interesting. As for the industry presentation we are going with agriculture as CPG was too hard to find resources on.

Lastly, there is my CMA project where we are working on a global entry strategy for Kitchenaid...something like what we would see in our internships. It is fairly vague and we haven't gotten too far in, but I already know more than I ever thought I would on Japanese cooking tastes and trends.

And if that wasn't keeping me busy enough, there is our readings, homework, housework (still haven't done laundry this week!) and try to keep up with my friends. Pulled in 500 directions, and this was supposed to be easier than the core?

The next adventure...

2010-01-28T11:27:00.000-08:00

This week has probably been the most hectic, stressful and yet exciting period of my life. The week started off with an interview with Target. They were the reason I had come to business school, so I had a lot riding on me to do well on the interview. 10 or so of my classmates were also interviewing and we didn't know how many spots they were planning on taking from Kelley (eep!) About 6 of us got called Monday evening to come back for a second round on Tuesday.

Cue more stress, smaller pool but still no indication on how many slots. Did the best I could do under the circumstances and made sure to take a little of the edge off by talking to one of the senior buyers after. It's funny how much more relaxed you are when your resume is no longer on the table. Decisions were to come out on Weds. *cue dramatic music*

Weds morning came and went, as did Weds afternoon. All my classmates knew how badly I wanted the position and were checking in with me every chance they got. I began to sound like a broken record with "still no news." I think by the time I got home I didn't have any fingernails left!

When we got home, I pretty much gave up on the idea of hearing whether I would make it or not. I settled in to watch "Everybody Hates Chris" (how apropos right?!) and tried to relax. Then, BZZZ BZZZ! A 612 number! OMG! And that was it! My offer to my dream internship, still makes me get all choked up. I had worked so hard for it so to see it come full circle was great validation.

After I got off the phone, I was frantic! Who to call first!? After attacking Charlton and squealing for a good 5 minutes, I called my mom who was just as excited as I was. Then there was my sister, brother, friends and my aunt to fill in. I seriously got nothing done yesterday.

This has been a nutty week, but I am glad it is finally over and with such positive results. Now I can finally start focusing on schoolwork again!

Winter Pic Recap

2010-01-28T11:19:00.000-08:00

I know these have been a long time coming, but with break and the whirlwind of interview season finally getting to posting these. Sorry, I know bad blogger! But enjoy, I promise to be more prompt with the picture updates in the future!

And so it starts...

2010-01-25T03:33:00.001-08:00

Today is my first on campus interview. I am excited and nervous, and just want to do well and not embarrass myself. It's like b-school interviews although the stakes are higher as I no longer have a job to fall back on.

But it's at 8:30 and I have to make sure I have adequate time on campus and look cute in my suit so better go get ready. Wish me luck!

Weekend Recap

2010-01-25T03:25:00.000-08:00

Friday: Was the kickoff of our CMA projects, mine is evaluating global entry for Kitchenaid brand. Very exciting stuff! My team had a little meet and greet to discuss questions we wanted asked and then we met with the other team working on the project to have a conference call with our project manager at Whirlpool. We have lots of information, and we can't wait to get started, too bad we have those pesky interviews in the way! After CMA I volunteered at the snack shack for the Kelley Women's Case Comp. I got to hang out with some classmates and attempt to do homework so not a bad gig. Although I didn't get to leave campus until 7, though. Then it was off to Target to get thank you notes for this week.

Saturday: All day spent studying and doing homework. At 5, headed to campus to watch Operation Thunderbolt with my KIP classmates. Then off to the IMU for the Case Comp awards dinner where Kelley took home 3rd and one classmate took home honorable mention for her part of the presentation! Good job ladies!

Sunday: More of the same, lots of accounting, lots of reading for our KIP. Also a little interview prep, but not too much as one of my favorite second years reminded me that I know what I am doing. Let's hope she is right. Charlton had a group project at 7, so I packed my bag and watched trashy tv and was in bed by 9:30.

Long day

2010-01-21T20:29:00.000-08:00

So I didn't get to leave campus today until 8, and I got there at 9:30...what a day! First, I trucked across campus to pick up my SPSS software for my Market Research class. Was very glad the rain decided to come later, that's for sure. Then back at Kelley, I attempted to read for class and didn't get very far as I was talking to my classmates who were preparing for their first interviews on campus. Next up, Market Research where we talked about the 2 hour focus group video we watched on diagnosing allergies. Then straight to a planning meeting for the International Dessert Potluck we are co-hosting with Asian & Latin MBA. After that, a meeting to talk about my experiences at Qualcomm with an Investment Management Academy student who plans on pitching the stock for the fund the academy manages. Then a little more studying and talk about interviews (the hot topic of every first year these days) and then there was an MBAA funding and planning meeting. Once that wrapped up, I got debriefed on volunteering for Kelley's first Women's Case Invitational that my friends are competing in. After the quick debrief, it was off to the kick off reception in the basement catered by Good Life Culinary, which was absolutely delicious! Once the girls were all settled in their break out room, I finally left school and went to Target to get my thank you notes for next week. Finally collapsed on the couch around 9 to watch Martha and the office and get a snack. I have spent the last hour reading Market Research stuff and can hardly keep my eyes open. Need to get to bed, I have a big day tomorrow...CMA team project kick-off and a conference call with my project coordinator at Whirlpool.

In the middle

2010-01-21T07:47:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was nuts, but most of my days are now. Had accounting and brand, a mock, a Kelley Women exec meeting and a brief visit to the museum. Then I got home and spent 2-3 hours updating what we want to do with the website so my chair can fix it up for us. Fun times! Have a feeling today is going to be worse, on campus from 9:15-8:00 pm. Wish me luck!

And now its in print!

2010-01-21T07:32:00.001-08:00

While flipping through my Real Simple last night, I was pleasantly surprised to see this ad. Giada & Target together in PRINT. Love it. You get to see all the new products and Giada enjoying the food she has prepared with them. Beautiful, now we're really cooking.

And its over!

2010-01-19T21:42:00.001-08:00

We finally finished plowing through the Wire. Just in time for us too, things are ramping up like crazy here.

Today wasn't so bad itself: Market Research, tons of Kelley Women stuff and my first Pilates class at the HPER. Oh and my first tour for SAC.

Tomorrow is another story with Accounting, Brand Management, Kelley Women Exec meeting a mock interview, and an event at the Art Museum. Buckle up!

New Packaging for Lean Cuisine

2010-01-19T15:22:00.000-08:00

While I didn't think anything was wrong with the old packaging, I love the redesign! Fresh and clean, it really draws attention to the simpleness of the food and the nutrition of it. Its a great way to stand out in the category, as no one else has such straightforward and beautiful packaging. Bravo Nestle!

No School Monday

2010-01-19T05:26:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we had off for MLK day. It was nice to get a little break so early in the semester and let me adequately catch up on my homework and work at finishing the Wire. I stayed in my PJs all day only leaving the house to take Addie on a walk. Wish we had more Mondays like this!

Great Idea!

2010-01-19T05:23:00.001-08:00

To have a mini Starbucks card to hang from your keys! So whether you are just coming home from the gym or out to meet a friend all you need is your key ring and you've got yourself a latte!

Faculty Auction Dinner

2010-01-17T07:21:00.001-08:00

Last night we were able to claim our prize of dinner at Gale Nichols, Director of Student Services, home. She had 14 of us first years over for an amazing home cooked meal. Each dish was amazing and I ate way too much! The dinner gave us all a chance to catch up with each other as a lot of our schedules don't overlap anymore. Gale was a great host and FANTASTIC cook, class of 2012 take note and start saving your money now for next year's faculty auction!

Peer Coach Dinner

2010-01-17T06:59:00.000-08:00

Friday my peer coach, Tara, had all of her peer coachees over for dinner to just talk through where we are and get a sense of where we are going. It was really great to get together with everyone and just talk about everything. Totally felt spoiled too with a home cooked dinner, I don't think any of the other peer coaches did that. Really helped me focus on this last final push, so glad she is in my court.

Target ♥s P&G

2010-01-16T22:47:00.000-08:00

CMA Friday this week, has been my favorite session so far. But I do have a bias as my class' "Target Girl" We had representatives from P&G come to campus and discuss some new initiatives to a department in the store. It was great to hear about how collaborative their relationship is and how they can utilize data each has to best serve the guest. And to top it off, we all headed to the Bloomington Target for a personalized store tour. It's days like this that I don't mind being at school at 9 am on a Friday.

MIA

2010-01-16T22:38:00.000-08:00

When we were immersed in the Core all we heard was it would get better second semester. Well, now I am not so sure. My time seems even limited, and I only have 4 classes. But now I have 2 class teams so far, 1 academy team and then Kelley Women Exec activities taking up my time. Oh and don't forget mock interviews! I had 4 mock interviews and then a GCS sponsored slam-a-thon in the span of 3 days. And their not even over yet, I have another one already lined up for next week, and maybe an interview if I played my cards right.

The atmosphere at school has changed a lot too. Can't say they didn't warn us, that things would change once preference lists for companies came out and I definitely feel it. More competitive, a little jealousy, and a lot of people who are torn between being excited and being depressed. It's a weird time: new classes, new attitudes and new commitments.

New from General Mills

2010-01-16T22:32:00.000-08:00

I was able to get my first taste of General Mills Chocolate Cheerios in their corporate store in their HQ. Not my favorite, was similar to Cocoa Puffs but not as chocolatey. However, the Banana Nut Cheerios they gave us coupons for and I have since tried...AMAZING! And now both are in a supermarket near you.

Where is my seat?

2010-01-11T21:27:00.000-08:00

The start of a new semester and my first day of non-core classes, its weird to type that. While it is fun to have new classes and ones I picked I already miss some of the familiarity there was in the core. I don't have the same seat, I have to move classes and second years mixed with the first years changes the dynamic a lot. I am sure it will take some getting used to and then by then it will be summer right!?

Today I had my most filled day class wise with 3 classes: Managerial Accounting, Brand Asset Management and KIP Israel. So far I like all of them and I am really pumped about KIP Israel, and yes they bribe us with food from Falafels, but I am really excited at all we are going to see and experience. In an effort to get to bed before 1, here is the rest of my day in a nutshell:

Waited in line forever to mail our textbooks we sold
Signed up for the wrong pilates class after getting lost in the HPER
Switched my pilates class to the one my friends are in
Watched an episode of the Wire
Fast forwarded through a whole episode of Martha Stewart watching only 2 minutes
Wore my new boots in the house for a good 2 hours
Danced when I got a present from my aunt of new silverware!
Talked to my dad on the phone
Read my case for Brand Management's Weds class on Samsung
Read a chapter of Accounting
Made appointments for 3 mock interviews this week
Tried to kick this cold
etc.

There is no warm-up, just go!

These Boots are Made for Walking

2010-01-11T18:20:00.001-08:00

I ♥ my new Kamik Brooklyn Boots! I can't wear them tomorrow and not have to worry about my feet getting cold. Hooray for Endless and their free overnight shipping!

Two of my favorites meet...

2010-01-10T20:14:00.000-08:00

in the middle of Kitchenwares! I am so excited about Giada's new partnership with Target! I really think she resonates with their target guest and it should be a great venture for the both of them. I can't wait to see how it does, and better yet tastes (at least the sauces and not the pans) as I had to show a little restraint after spending quite a bit on jewelry there during my last visit. I will definitely have to ask about it during my store tour with the CMA on Friday.

Welcome Back!

2010-01-10T20:02:00.000-08:00

So tonight marks the end of winter break. I had a great time visiting my family and being back in San Diego. I miss them and the food already! The last week has been packed with a whirlwind trip to Minneapolis to visit Land O' Lakes, 3M, General Mills and Target and try to make nice with the -9 degree weather. I brought back with me loads of new clothes (thanks mom and dad), Banana Nut Cherrios (thanks General Mills) and my coveted Bullesye stuffed dog (thanks Target). Since being back I have had some time to catch up with some of my friends, take Addie for walks in the snow and watch as much of the Wire as humanly possible and just relax. It's been nice, but I have to say goodbye to it, and hello to my 2nd semester.

2009-12-31T11:12:00.000-08:00

Here's to a new opportunities and new experiences! Happy New Year!

Parties and Pajamas

2009-12-29T11:00:00.000-08:00

The last few days have been a welcome recharge period. I have spent a lot of it in my pj's. There has been shopping, Mexican food, dinners and a few parties thrown in. It's been great to be home, be lazy and catch up with my family. I really needed this!

Home Sweet Home

2009-12-22T14:10:00.000-08:00

I got in last night and was greeted by my family in baggage claim wearing santa hats and garland necklaces. So awesome! Was great to see them after a long and tiring flight.

In true San Diego fashion we hit a taco shop on the way home and picked up some rolled tacos. Yum! Good to have some real Mexican food again. Finished off the evening with some Sprinkles cupcakes and crawled into bed.

Glad to be back!

2009-12-21T08:34:00.000-08:00

Rolling up the sidewalks

2009-12-20T15:31:00.000-08:00

When class is in session it is hard to remember that Bloomington is a small town. After taking our friends to the shuttle and Charlton too, it got really quiet. I dropped a box off at school and it was pretty eerie, where is everyone?! Why isn't anyone studying?! Oh wait. No more class, or core.

When I wasn't playing shuttle driver, I cleaned out my closet and dropped off my cast-offs to Goodwill and cleaned off my bookshelf. Oh and spilled root beer on my laptop. Good times!

On more night in here in B-Town, then I am Cali bound too. A little relaxing and sun should do me good.

you are wonderful, and you kept fighting to the end....

2009-12-19T11:53:00.000-08:00

Want to ramp up and try it again? :)

Great job.
And its just beginning…

You are a great class – keep positive, keep upbeat, keep smiling.

Don’t have a lot of clever, witty sayings – but I do have a simple and sincere thank you for you – thank you.

So, what’s the last Friday (and maybe a Saturday here or there) tune?

C’mon, it can’t be anything but: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FF22cBZJsU (you have to feel a little like a champion)
(always around if you need me, I will be updating you soon on the process for grades)

((I really am proud of you))

Our Core Chair really does know how to pick a girl up off the floor

Final Final & Friday Recap

2009-12-19T07:34:00.000-08:00

I had all of the intentions to write a huge wrap up post for yesterday, but in between activities I was too burnout and then after getting my exam results back I wasn't really in the mood.

Econ was another morning final, so we left our complex at 8:15 so we could get there on time and get a seat and get all set up. Felt okay going in, but it was a brutal 33 questions. I took all but 3 minutes of the 3 hours provided. ugh! Afterward most of us were loitering around like a bunch of zombies in the atrium. When everyone had finished up we headed down to Yogi's to unwind a little.

Then it was back to the apartment where Charlton took a nap and I vegged out in front of the TV and played around online. After partially recharging our batteries we headed back to campus for Kelley Iron Chef that was being held in the HPER. There were 4 teams of second years that had to work with the secret ingredient...potato! I was the only 1st year judge and got the first bite of all the various dishes, 3 from each team. There were some great items and everyone did a great job. It was a great way to celebrate....

But for every little up there is always a down to bring you back to reality. We had already got our operations grade earlier (ouch!) but we got an email that econ had already been graded. None of us could just let those exams just sit in our mailbox so before we headed to the end of the core party we thought we would swing by and pick up our tests. BAD IDEA! It put me in a crummy mood to see it and there was no way that I could go out after. Just need to hide out at the apartment. So while I was bummed I didn't get to hang out with everyone it was good to just have some time to myself and go to bed early.

But whatever happens happens. It's all over now

Why my Management Professor is the Coolest

2009-12-19T07:30:00.000-08:00

Because he sends our assignments with comments like this on them:

Love it!

And its over!

2009-12-18T21:49:00.000-08:00

For better or for worse, all of the Core is behind me. It's a weird feeling but I know I am going to be a little bummed not to see my team's sleepy faces on Monday morning but I know I will be happy to sleep in. Some of the toughest weeks of my life are behind me, but who knows what will lie ahead!?

So close you can almost taste it!

2009-12-18T05:47:00.000-08:00

3 more hours and then no more Core! What a ride but I am glad that its almost over...Yogi's here we come!

Is it Friday yet?

2009-12-17T21:13:00.000-08:00

Finals week, and this is what I have been reduced to! A slob in sweats pouring over ppts and word files regarding monetary and fiscal policy until I am cross-eyed. I washed the dishes for the first time this week just a few minutes ago, eww!

I am ready to be done, and I think the rest of the class of 2011 is too. It cannot be noon tomorrow soon enough!

Closing in

2009-12-16T20:31:00.000-08:00

on what has been the most intense 16 weeks of my life. And because I am days away from being doesn't mean I can slack, I think I scheduled more stuff today than I have had in awhile. First up, Finance final. Didn't leave crying, but I think the other finals have made me dead to getting worked up. Then picked up my Accounting final from the MBA office, not stellar but not the worst grade in the class, something I have really had to get used to this semester.

Then the fun began...MOCKS! I had arranged back-to-back mocks with 2 second years that have a lot of knowledge about one of my top companies so they could coach me and help me shape my answers better. They went better than expected, have I really gotten better over the last 16 weeks with that too? Wow! Just have a few minor ticks I have to work on and need to polish up a couple answers. Interview stream here I come!

Next up, my transition meeting for Kelley Women. I sat down with the former VP and talked about the role and some of the challenges and things I will need to handle. Then a major data dump onto my jump drive so I am all set for next semester. Going to have to fly on my own as soon as I get back from break as she won't be back to Kelley until after Spring Break, must be nice to study abroad in Switzerland!

And then because I was dead, we headed to Target and then walked around the mall before heading to Bucceto's to grab a pizza. Since then I have gotten some gifts together to some of my favorite second years who have helped me out a lot and NOTHING! A girl needs to recharge her batteries so I don't crash and burn before Friday. Studying is what Thursdays are for!

I have a feeling this won't work....

2009-12-16T04:58:00.000-08:00

I just have a hunch "that a miracle happens" or "you give me a fantastic grade" are not acceptable answers to our Finance final today. Bummer!

We spent all day working back through the take home portion. Having a midnight study session with our neighbor (with peppermint fudge! There is now no hope for me fitting in my suit in January!)

I got up early this morning to put some last minute notes in my book and made sure I packed everything:
Calculator - check
Take Home - check
Book -check
Pencils and erasers - check, check

Let's do this!

I was never good at this game

2009-12-14T21:02:00.000-08:00

A if you didn't see the massacre on the wii a few weeks back, it was back in all of its glory during tonight's final.

I thought I was prepared, went to the review on Sunday, and spent all last night and today studying. Felt I got thrown by rewording on questions though. Wasn't anything that REALLY threw me, I knew what all the questions were getting at...but getting there was another issue.

Felt I spent a lot of time hitting the sides and getting shocked, but we will have to wait and see.

We went to Uptown to lick our wounds before coming home and relaxing. Tomorrow is dedicated to studying for Finance then more finals fun on Weds.

I ♥ Green 2!

2009-12-14T08:37:00.000-08:00

I am going to miss you guys! Although after 16 weeks I am sure they are all sick of me.

Crowded?!

2009-12-14T08:36:00.000-08:00

Here is a shot from our Ops review yesterday. I had to sit on a table in the back with a friend. The review helped a lot and hopefully I will be able to put it to work this evening. Fingers crossed!

Another one bites the dust!

2009-12-12T19:40:00.000-08:00

So accounting is done. It was a brutal exam, with full financials to analyze from Dow Chemical. Fun!

After feeling like we had been through a meat grinder, Charlton and I headed to the Irish Lion for dinner (delicious!) and then to BluBoy Chocolate (okay)

I have spent the rest of the evening going through applications for committee chair positions for Kelley Women. I am so impressed with the backgrounds of all classmates, we have some tough choices to make!

Planning to go bed early again tonight, we have an exec meeting early tomorrow to finalize our decisions. Then time to kick it into high gear for Operations!

1 down...

2009-12-12T08:42:00.000-08:00

4 more to go! Yesterday was our marketing final and most of us spent the full three full hours darkening bubbles and writing until our fingers felt they were going to fall off. It was a relief to get one out of the way, but today's will be a lot more difficult ACCOUNTING!

It doesn't start for another 3 hours so I have a little more time to cram, but in all seriousness my brain can't process anymore writedowns and expense changes. Let the torture begin!

resume...DROP!

2009-12-11T06:40:00.000-08:00

As if we didn't all have enough on our plates with our marketing final this afternoon and accounting tomorrow, resume drops for on campus interviewing began today. I probably was the only first year that popped out of bed when the calendar appointment went off on my phone and logged into GCS to get it taken care of. But now its done, and now I wait. Preference lists don't come out for a few more weeks so until then...fingers crossed!

Last day...

2009-12-10T15:12:00.000-08:00

of the Core for me, and of teaching for Metzger. It made me all teary, it is a really special place we have here.

Goodbye Green!

2009-12-10T11:29:00.000-08:00

This commercial is partly to blame for getting me in this mess

2009-12-09T22:56:00.000-08:00

Are we there yet?

2009-12-09T19:58:00.000-08:00

We are almost done, but it is hard to focus when you have 5 finals competing for your attention, prep for interviews and anything else that goes on in what I call a life. Today was our last accounting class, last operations class and a fun intro to the GCS resume and bidding process. After class I had a lunch date with my peer coach to go over some of my CARs then home to study for the rest of the day. 8 days to go...

Another Day Down

2009-12-08T21:18:00.000-08:00

I am that much closer to being done with the Core. Not sure how I feel about that though, there is something very comforting to show up to the same seat everyday surrounded by the same people. I am excited for all of the new classes next semester but I am going to miss all my Core professors. Especially Management! We had one of the best sessions today (our case was on AirAsia) and to close Professor Semandi had one of the most moving speeches I have heard, I was getting a little teary by the end. The whole class was really moved and gave him a standing ovation on top of our typical Kelley clap.

After class I had a quick trek meeting to try to get everything straightened out with the rest of the trek leaders, then Charlton and I headed out for lunch and to the grocery store to stock up for finals week. At the Kroger I had a total geek out moment when I say the Joy of Cooking line in the freezer section, we had done a case on it with Jewel-Osco during CMA week so it was interesting to see what Kroger chose to stock and where they placed it. You know you are a CMA'er when you get super excited about that kind of stuff.

Back at the house it was time to study, eat dinner, send emails and have phone interviews. Oh and find out I will be VP of Internal Affairs for Kelley Women! We had some great candidates running and I am really honored that I was selected, so excited to help lead the organization next year.

Almost done, so hard to believe it!

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

2009-12-07T20:59:00.000-08:00

Our first real snow! Although exciting, and kind of fun to wake up to a snow fallen Bloomington quickly the logistics associated with it start running through your head: Walk Addie in the snow? Are the streets going to be plowed? Will they be salted? What is the traffic going to be like? Addie didn't get her morning constitutional but did have a little fun running around in the grass with all the snow. We found out quickly that parking in the garage is "a good thing" but snowy/icy roads in Bloomington are not. We left at our normal time and got to school 5 minutes after class started, we definitely have room for improvement there.

After class got started on the Finance take home exam, watched a little Martha Stewart during lunch then practiced my presentation for VP elections a little. We headed over to our friends' place for dinner to celebrate a birthday (delicious!) and I then headed to Kelley for election presentations. I did the best I could and should find out the results tomorrow, there is definitely some stiff competition.

Only 3 more days of Core, can hardly believe it!

2 weeks and counting

2009-12-06T20:27:00.000-08:00

Sunday is coming to a close. I didn't get half as much done as I wanted, but that is really something I have started to get used to. I read through my preliminary marketing notes and worked through the first accounting practice exam with Charlton (in a word brutal!). For a much needed study break we headed to College Mall and did a little shopping and got each other books for Christmas at Borders.
When we got back to the house it was time to get ready for our various evening activities. First up was the Business Marketing Academy's holiday party (Charlton's academy). I didn't get to stay long though as I head to head across Bloomington for an SAC dinner with some prospies, our biggest turnout yet! With a belly full of Nick's pizza it was time to head home to watch the Amazing Race finale.
Now it is a 11:30 and I really need to get to bed. Want to be on the top of my game tomorrow so I can get through class, study and hopefully knock the socks off the members of Kelley Women during my VP election speech. Wish me luck!

Weekend, What Weekend?

2009-12-06T06:58:00.000-08:00

Friday has come and gone, it was pack full of CMA activities focusing on the dreaded case interview questions. It was a great session, but totally wore us all out as it went from 9am-4pm. That gave me just enough time to head home and catch up on my email before heading back to school for China night. The event put on by Asian MBA was fantastic and had excellent food and even better cultural performances put on by our classmates. After that it was off to Bluebird to celebrate our friend's birthday.

Staurday was a weird day. I felt like I got nothing done, and the day was broken up by trips to school so didn't allow for much of anything to get accomplished. I did, however, read all the cases for this week. Not huge but at least its something. We did have our first KIP Israel meeting as well, to get us all pumped for the trip! We got to have some tasty Israeli snacks as well, then it was time to hit the books again before heading off to the Kelley Women holiday party!

I got up at 8:30 today and have been slowly cleaning off my desk and sending the emails I had planned to send last night. Hope to get a little more done today than yesterday, although tonight are more holiday parties (BMA) and then the final SAC dinner of the semester. It will be a major test of my time management skills, that's for sure.

It keeps going and going and going...

2009-12-03T21:31:00.000-08:00

Another day of class, an afternoon of informational interviews, an evening of slam sessions (with the director of GCS no less) and elections. Just another day at Kelley, sure doesn't feel like the core is winding down at all.

Tomorrow is a day jam packed with CMA activities. Breakfast with General Mills, case question prep with Scotts, and who knows what else. Let the Marketing begin!

Snow Day!

2009-12-02T20:39:00.000-08:00

Today was our first snow here in Bloomington. We have had frost, but no snow. Still crazy as a Southern Californian to look out my window and see it falling. I took Addie out in it, and I don't think she is a fan. This could make for an interesting winter.

Another packed day at Kelley: class, peer coach meeting, work on my election presentation, networking emails, and organization. Didn't even get a chance to start reviewing for the finals. Better get on those quick though, the first one is in little over a week.

The semester is winding down, but it sure doesn't feel like it. It's like Week 7 deja vu!

When did it become December?

2009-12-02T04:18:00.000-08:00

Wasn't it just August?! So hard for me to think that about 4 months have passed since we moved here and started class. One moment it will seem like it has flown by and another it seems like we have been here forever. Only a few more weeks and we will be done with the core (a day I never thought would come!)

Yesterday was a little hectic, but most days are now. After class I had a quick meeting with the future MBAA VP of Finance to discuss his vision going forward, then I jetted off to Starbucks to meet with the Girl Scouts Council rep for Monroe County to discuss volunteer opportunities here. Then we were back to the house where I finally could get lunch (at 3pm) and catch up on some emails and classwork. At 5ish we headed back to campus for Charlton's slam session and went to the 1st accounting review before the final. And finally at 8 we went out to Yogi's to celebrate our friends birthday with nachos and cupcakes.

Celebrate!

2009-11-30T21:04:00.000-08:00

Today it was back to the Core, after a long two week break. I think we were all trying to get into the swing of things today, I know I was! Not used to being out the door and ready to take notes at 8:15 in the morning anymore. Hopefully, tomorrow will be better and I won't be rushing in minutes before the professor starts again (Sorry Cattani!)

After class today, my team headed to Chow Bar to celebrate the end of case comp. We had hoped it would be a victory lunch, but we were all happy to be done and could celebrate our A- finish. After catching up and having some Chinese (had to incorporate where we thought Eaton should go!) we concluded our "team meeting".

I headed home where I wrote some emails, brainstormed and decompressed. Charlton and I made quick turkey sandwiches (thankfully our last!) and then headed to school for various election activities. Me to Marketing Club, Kelley Women faculty auction debrief meeting and Kelley Women's presidential elections; Charlton to work on his Asian MBA slate. It wasn't until 10:30 we left the Godfrey Center, giving me just enough time to catch up on my emails, vote and throw my hat into the ring for Kelley Women VP elections. The next few weeks look like they will be interesting!

2009-11-29T20:57:00.000-08:00

So tomorrow is the last final push before the end of the semester. That meant this weekend was filled with all the week's readings and some shopping trips. Lots of things are crossed off the to-do list, however, more things than have been crossed off have been added. There is light at the end of the tunnel...December 19th!

Trip in Pictures

2009-11-26T19:08:00.000-08:00

Treks

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T11:27:00.000-08:00

Got back into Bloomington yesterday afternoon after a couple crazy travel days trekking. It's great to be home!

Charlton's dad is here visiting us from Cleveland and to help us celebrate Thanksgiving here in the apartment. This is only the second Thanksgiving away from my family, so it should be interesting to be away from so many of the people I am thankful for. I plan on calling them all today or trying to skype so hopefully it won't be too bad.

We have had an amazing year, full of once in a lifetime experiences and have met some lifelong friends. We are truly blessed and I am thankful for all we have (including that turkey that is ready to go in the oven!)

Happy Turkey Day everyone!

I'm back!

2009-11-25T13:26:00.000-08:00

Just walked in and are in the midst of catching up on my emails, mail and getting some snacks. What a whirlwind trip! Good to be home though.

Homeward bound!

2009-11-25T03:45:00.000-08:00

After a crazy few days of traveling its time for me to head to Bloomington. I shared a cab with my friend, and got here hours before my flight. They have an earlier flight to Indianapolis and I think it is worth the $50 price tag to get home and spend a little more time with Charlton's dad who is visiting us from Cleveland. I will get to check in a few minutes so hopefully it works out, otherwise I will get to know the La Guardia airport pretty well.

New York, NY

2009-11-25T03:21:00.000-08:00

I got into the city a little early, at 10:25, and hoped into a cab. It was awesome to see the city all lit up before me and reminded me a little of SATC with me dressed up in the back. I had no problems getting to the Roosevelt and took a quick shower and climbed straight into bed as we had another big day ahead.

First thing in the morning we headed down the block to find a little something for breakfast as we knew we would be getting treats at our first company visit. I settled on a yogurt parfait and a coffee and was ready to hit the town. Up first, Dylan's Candybar, where Kelley alum Maggy Siegel is the COO. She opened up the store for us and gave us a personal tour of the 3 floors of candy. It was a blast! We even got a sneak peek of the back room where all the inventory is kept and then we headed to the cafe for some treats (I got pumpkin ice cream) and some question and answer time with Maggy. It was a great experience and gave us a little different perspective of retail than Target and Wal-Mart who come to campus.

We had a little free time before our next visit and a few of my classmates and I went to Loehmann's nd then to Feline's. I ended up not getting anything but a proscuitto sandwisch from the Bed Bath and Beyond cafe.

Then it was time to head to Macys.com's offices. We were able to meet with HOUR and the merchandise, planning, creative and IT team. It was a really neat perspective on retail, and was great to see the differences between a brick and motar store and an e-tailer.

When we finished up there we were on our own, I headed back to the hotel with some of my classmates and changed into "something more comfortable" and then headed off to get some dinner. We walked to Serendipity, and were greeted with an hour long wait! We found a cute Italian place across the street and had an AMAZING dinner of pasta and salad. We hustled out of there to make our reservation at Serendipity, and proceeded to gorge ourselves on Frrrozen Hot Chocolate and a "Can't Say No" sundae. Everything was good but we needed at least 2-3 other people to help us eat everything. With full bellies, we headed back to the hotel making sure to look at all the holiday windows at Bloomingdale's before calling it a night

M-I-C-K-E-Y...

2009-11-25T03:06:00.000-08:00

The flight to Orlando was great, got lots of reading done and picked up a Martha along the way. I got to ride the Magical Express to Coronado Springs to meet up with my Kelley girls for dinner. I was already smiling ear to ear and we weren't even in the park, I was already that excited!

We got up early on Monday for Magic hours and headed to Animal Kingdom before our meeting with Corporate. It was my first time in that park, and it was awesome, like a cross between our trip to Thailand mixed with the Wild Animal Park. We rode Everest (so much fun!), the Dinosaur ride, and the Kilamanjaro Safari. Then after a quick french toast breakfast we headed back to the hotel to get ready for our meeting.

Dressed in our business casual, we headed to the Maingate offices. There we met with the Parks merchandising team and were welcomed with our own pair of ears. We had a wonderful meeting and were able to learn a lot about the process from sample to production, I also got a few sneak peeks into the collection for next year.

Then it was time for me to head out, grabbed my bags and said goodbye to the girls and headed to the Orlando airport to make my way to New York.

My bags are packed and I am ready to go...

2009-11-22T12:36:00.000-08:00

On the first of what seems like many treks. I left Bloomington at 1 and I will be headed to Orlando shortly. I have my first company visit outside of CMA week tomorrow and 2 more scheduled for Tuesday. Wish me luck!

Time to Breathe

2009-11-22T12:29:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the first day I had in awhile where I didn't have anything to do, and was it great! I got coffee with a girlfrind and spent 2 much needed hours catching up. Other than that Addie got a bath and I dusted the apartment. We finished off our lazy day shopping at Sam's Club and getting a fabuluous dinner at Samira before catching up on Project Runway. Its funny how my weekends used to look like this and how much you really take decompressing for granted. If nothing else b-school has made me appreciate these little pauses a lot more.

What is it REALLY like...

2009-11-21T05:10:00.000-08:00

to be a marketer? That was the question of the day yesterday. Our CMA day had a panel of 6 recent alums who talked candidly about their jobs and the cultures of their company so we could get a better sense of what we can expect during our internships. Then we had 4 break-out sessions with them to work on some cases that they have had to work on. It was a lot of fun and they ranged from how do we evaluate what is important to the customer nutritionally to how do we set up our planogram. It was nice after being bogged down with our case competition to be reminded why we are here.

We finished up at about 3, I vegged for a bit and then headed to the grocery store to pick up our turkey. Then it was time for my first "Ladies Club" dinner. We went to Cafe Django, an Asian fusion restaurant. It was pretty good and it was fun for all of us to celebrate the holiday.

It's weird not having to go to school today, or not having to do research. I have a feeling today will be filled with a lot of cleaning, packing and working on my exam for CMA. But what an improvement over case comp! Yay for Thanksgiving break!

What happened outside of the breakroom...

2009-11-20T04:03:00.000-08:00

Case Comp in Pictures

2009-11-20T03:57:00.000-08:00

2009-11-20T03:34:00.000-08:00

So after a week of living and breathing buses, hybrid drive trains, and Chinese infrastructure, I am done! My team made it to the second round and ended up 3rd or 4th in our cohort. While, not the win my teammates were hoping for (no team has ever won orientation case comp and then won the 1st year one) we were able to work through the problem well and spend hours and hours together and not kill each other. I thought our idea was fairly innovative and we were able to explain the story well, so while a loss it really wasn't.

And on the personal side, to be able to speak in front of a room of 70+ for 3 and a half minutes with no notes and just rolling with it...is a huge improvement for me. It really is amazing how much I have grown in the last three months.

There was a lot of stuff going on after, I decided to retreat home and watch a little Martha in my pj's (was glad to get out of my suit!) and finally relaxed. I then had a fantastic dinner at Malibu grill with some friends and called it a night...but not before doing some research for today's CMA day at Kroger.

The Countdown Begins

2009-11-19T07:52:00.000-08:00

It's almost the end of case comp, my team is waiting in a breakout room for the drawing of our presentation time. I will be presenting in a room like this in just a few hours. We have run through the presentation and Q&A twice more this morning. I am ready to go! Let's go Green 2!

Again?!

2009-11-18T11:32:00.000-08:00

We advanced to the next round, we are still waiting to hear when we will present to the execs and our cohort. The slides can't be changed so all I have to do is practice, practice, practice.

I am definitely taking the afternoon and early evening off. It's Charlton's birthday so I am taking him out and a few friends are joining (shh, he doesn't know yet) us for sushi. Should be fun, then it will be back to work!

Round One...FIGHT!

2009-11-18T07:02:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the Street Fighter reference, but going into case comp it always feels like you are about to enter the ring. Your judges can be small and mighty like a Chun-Li or they can be big and scary like a Blanka as a judge. We thought we had drawn a Blanca, with our critical thinking professor, but it wasn't as bad as we had anticipated. The team presented well and we fielded the questions with little issue. So now we wait...We have another hour before we find out if we advance to Round 2 tomorrow. *crosses fingers*

Run over by a bus...

2009-11-17T20:18:00.000-08:00

After 4 days of camping out in a breakout room at Kelley that's what I feel like. Not that I have over done it, or put in crazy long hours (although today's 12 hour day was the exception, normally we have been doing 8-9 hours a day) I am just done. Ready to put the case behind us and venture out of the breakout rooms. My team has worked really well together, and our second year mentor has been great as he has checked up on us consistently to make sure we weren't killing each other. It's always good to know that someone else wants you to succeed.

We finished up around lunchtime today with getting all of our data in our finished powerpoint, and the rest of the day was practice, practice, practice. My teammate's wife brought us dinner (yummy quiche, thanks!) and we finally left the Godfrey Center at 9:30ish.

When I got home, I was in desperate need of some non-bus time and watched Martha Stewart's pie show. After talking to my brother and finishing the last load of laundry it was time to hop in the shower and blow dry my hair, a girl has to look good for her presentation.

I have to be at school at 7:45 tomorrow, ready to get the first round over with and find out if I can relax on Thursday or if I have to bring my A game again...wish me luck!

This what I call team work! Go green!

2009-11-17T04:58:00.000-08:00

What day is it!?

2009-11-16T16:58:00.000-08:00

After what seems like an eternity working on case comp, all the days have run together and I can't keep them straight anymore. Charlton said something along the lines of "the Browns are on Monday Night Football tonight" and I swear I must have looked at him like he was crazy, Monday already! Where did the weekend go? We have to be ready to roll with our presentation on Wednesday morning so that means it has to be done tomorrow night before our practice time at 7. eep! I have to finish our entry method slide tonight and then I will most likely spend the bulk of tomorrow working on what I will actually say with my team tomorrow. This has gone by so fast.

In other news, I have finally booked my trip home for Christmas. I am really excited as it will be the first time I will see my sister and her family since August. I am in definite need of some girl time and a few hugs from my niece...especially after case comp!

round and round, round and round, round and round...

2009-11-14T22:33:00.000-08:00

Today was another marathon day of working on our case, 8:30-5:45. We got a lot done, and have a direction that may work for us. I did a lot more research when I got home (thank goodness for the Wells Library Staff and their IM tool!)

Going to turn in early tonight, as I think everything is catching up with me. Here’s to some dreams not about buses!

Case Comp, Mock Interviews and Trivia, Oh My!

2009-11-13T06:30:00.000-08:00

So the last few days have been pretty uneventful school-wise as we were gearing up for today and the rest of case comp throughout next week. We had the presentation of the case last night and then were sent out to go pull everything together for the presentation Weds.

However, we took the evening off and went the the International Business Society’s Mexican Business Cultural Dinner at El Norteno. It was a great session, very informative, and the food was good.

Then it was time to get to work, at least a little and watch the case brief and do a little preliminary research. Today and the rest of the week will be interesting to say the least.

At least we get to let off a little steam from today with the trivia night being thrown by MBAA, I have a feeling I will need to!

**In other news, we found a stray cat on Tuesday night and brought him so he wouldn’t have to weather the elements. We took him to the shelter yesterday and they were not optimistic about his future. We are both pretty shook up about it, never a good time for that kind of stuff**

2009-11-11T03:47:00.000-08:00

My home for 16 hours each week

2009-11-10T00:00:00.000-08:00

It’s that time of year where we all reflect on what we are thankful for and appreciate in our lives. In a year that has brought me more changes, adventures and challenges I can think of so many people who have helped me through, and each one of their contributions means more to me than I can say.

One year ago, I was just a girl with big dreams hoping to leave the world of engineering behind for something bigger, something better…something more me. And here I am, a marketing major at the 15th ranked MBA program in the nation, exploring all the opportunities I never thought I could obtain. Giving myself goosebumps just thinking about it!

When ModCloth, posted about their Thanksgiving Thank-A-Thon blog contest I had to post to thank all the people who helped me get here and allow me to live my dream, there isn’t a day that I don’t think of you all!

Here they are in no particular order (and don’t hate me if I left you off, you know I didn’t do it on purpose!):

Charlton; for pushing me to constantly improve myself and be always be a better version of myself
My family; for being supportive through application processes, my traveling, watching my pets, helping me pack and dealing with my venting
My co-workers; for always being positive and being the ones who would dance with me in the halls to celebrate all my little victories
Elizabeth (the Brownie troop leader I assisted); for being one of my biggest cheerleaders and encouraging me to no end
Rebecca (my career coach); for making my happiness a priority and helping me realize the power of today
Selena & Emily (QC’ers); for being my sounding board
My new Kelley family; for making this easy, having never left my home they made this my new one. They are my bestest friends and I don’t know what I would do without them. (that goes for all the alums too, they truly bend over backwards to help!)

And now that I have seriously made myself teary, time for a little pick me up and some goofy things I am thankful for:

Splenda
Coffee Break Mondays
Addie, even if she makes me get up early to walk her
Google Reader
My Le Creuset
Mad Men
Casey, because he is the world’s greatest cat
McDonald’s salads

2009-11-09T23:41:00.000-08:00

Although I am sure to people outside of the MBA program, my life everyday looks a lot like Taz tearing through a scene, today seemed to be the epitome of it.

Classes started late for me today, so I dropped Charlton off and grabbed my dry cleaning from NAWMBA so I would be ready for the case comp this week. Then I read and wrote some emails before jumping right into the econ case on Brazil. When my brain couldn’t take in any more information on inflation and interest rates we escaped from 1050 to go play the “beer game” simulation for ops.

Everyone had a role in a 4 stage supply chain of a beer manufacturer. I ended up with the Distributor role, and after 6 simulated weeks thought I was doing fantastically, and then a monster order came in and killed my inventory. I had such a huge backlog by the end of the session I had to actually use a calculator to get my numbers! Although, we didn’t end up in last place so we weaseled out of having to tidy, but as we didn’t win no cash prize for us! And what better way to understand the bullwhip effect than to see it happen in person, over pocket change instead of in the real world when you have customers screaming at you.

I had just enough time for a quick bite to eat before I had 3 informational interviews with second years regarding their internship searches and their roles in Kelley Women. Finally at about 4:45 I got to head home and prep for another informational interview. By the time 7 rolled around I had to unbury myself from all the emails I got over the day and try to get a handle on whats ahead. Still getting there, is it really only Monday?

2009-11-09T15:50:00.000-08:00

After my meeting with the SBA director, it was home for a walk with Addie and some more reading. Then at 6ish, I headed off to Scholar’s Inn for the Kelley Women Leadership Info Meeting. They set it up like round tables and all the current executive members sat at their own table and we moved around to learn more information. I had already decided what I planned to run for, but it was great to get some more information and some ideas on what to do going forward. I came home and set up loads of meeting with the chairs below the position, a current MBAA officer and the MBA office to find out more about how the role interfaces with them. Should be helpful in showcasing my interest and allowing me to show how I understand the role and goals for it going forward. It’s going to be a busy, but good week.

2009-11-09T09:02:00.000-08:00

Where else do you go when you have a meeting? I think the epitome of “let’s get coffee” is Starbucks, although I didn’t have any coffee! Yesterday afternoon I met with the director of the Student Business Ambassadors, the undergraduate organization I will be mentoring. We had a great meeting, and have some good ideas to improve the organization forward. I am can’t to help them out and make their ideas come to life! I am really looking forward to working with them.

2009-11-09T08:52:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Kelley! Saturday was another packed day of activities for our prospies. They had breakfast, panels, lunch with the 1st & 2nd years, more panels and closing dinner with keynote speaker Maggy Siegel.

As I was not hosting any visitors, I spent my morning walking Addie and reading for class. I got a ton done and then headed to campus for the lunch and the 2 last panels with recent Kelley alums. While a lot of the discussion was directed to the prospies, as a current student it was a great reminder of why I love it here and what a wonderful place this is. Also got to get a little bit of the lowdown on studying abroad next year; is Switzerland or France in my future!? A girl can hope!

But the weekend wasn’t all coming up roses…I took a spill down the stairs on the way to lunch and hit a car while trying to take my friend from San Diego to the book store (smooth one!) Will have to see how much the damage comes out to be and how its going to hit my grad student level bank account, ugh! But at least no major bruising from the fall, unless you count my ego.

2009-11-07T00:38:00.000-08:00

But to really celebrate the completion of another class…it was time for Women’s Weekend! First up, was a wonderful cocktail party at Tallent. We had a wonderful turnout of second and first years who could mingle with all the great Kelley prospectives. Then it was off to the Bluebird for the highlight of our week, the Faculty Auction! Most of our professors donated events and experiences, ranging from dinner, wine tastings, laser tag, basketball and even 10 hours of cabana boy duties. We had a great turnout and I was able to get in on a couple events: Superbowl party with our future statistic modeling professor, BBQ with one of the accounting professors, dinner with the director of student services and a knitting lesson with my buddy. Can’t wait to collect on all my prizes, will be a great way to celebrate the end of the core!

Although I can’t wait until the spring to watch my fellow first years dominate my Accounting professor and his team of professors at Assembly Hall. Go Class of ‘11!