Because you can

The theme of today's Innovation, Foresight and Business Design class was, 'because you can.' The example pushed the boundaries of what some people might call appropriate, or what others may call decent. However, to me, it was a hilarious human truism. As the course encourages the use of imagination, I will let you all imagine what the example was.

What do you do 'because you can?'

Course Overview

I have become the blogger that I despise - posting a mere once a week. (Please accept my sincerest apologies!)

I have officially completed the first week of school and I'm pleased to note that I chose correctly - no need for further add/drop!

On the roster for this half:

1. Top Manager's Perspective - this class was the richest in bid points and thus far, well worth it! Beyond the lecture material (so far building and selling your case), we will be meeting with top managers, AKA CEOs, to learn from business leaders. I'm really excited for this course to develop.

2. Financial Management - some of you may be surprised to see a finance course on my schedule, but have no fear, I have chosen well. Financial Management ranked well in terms of student satisfaction. Additionally, the material is much more practical in nature. Plus, it marries finance and strategy together, and strategy is a strength of mine.

3. Entrepreneurship - As I lean toward entrepreneurial projects, this is going to be an extremely useful class. Plus, this is my opportunity to mash all that I've learned from first year into a business plan. Business Planning is, in my opinion, a crucial MBA skill.

4. Innovation, Foresight and Business Design - Despite the somewhat pretentious course title, this is going to be another winner on my schedule as it is all about curiosity and innovation, two of my favourite things. The prof is a wee bit hard to follow, but I'm sure that I'll catch on to his style in no time.

5. Strategic Change and Implementation - This is the one class that I haven't yet experienced as it has an intensive format (think long hours on Friday/Saturday). I'll have more on this one as it unfolds, starting in November.

Nothing hilarious has taken place yet this year. I'm trying hard to not have the 'laisser faire' attitude that some second year MBAs fall victim to, once they have signed their full-time contracts. As I'm leaning toward launching an entrepreneurial venture, I will only be punishing myself by not paying attention and learning this material. Plus, I am currently the only MBA in my family that has not achieved a dean's list ranking (yes, my cousin was a dean's list grad from Columbia in NYC, and my dad was also brilliant in his EMBA class). While I try to not compare myself to others, it is difficult to not want to achieve.

Second Year Begins

One of the things that got me through first year was the assurance that second year is much lighter in terms of work load and deliverables.

Well, I have only completed one class thus far this week, but I have examined the various course outlines, and I think I've been lied to. Thus far, I have noted MANY assignments (both individual, and group based). Additionally, there is still a plethora of reading to be completed and exercises to do pre-class.

I guess the 'light' portion is in understanding what needs to be done and being able to prioritize work. Or perhaps, there is less pressure once students have secured their full time jobs. While some people may feel comfortable relaxing this year, I intend to give it my all as usual. My schedule is such that I will graduate with three additional credits.

This is my opportunity to dedicate myself to learning. This opportunity may never present itself again. Thus, I will make the most of it!

Apparently I look exactly like my photo...

I was surprised this week at orientation camp by the number of people who said hi because they had seen my photograph on this blog. Thanks for reading guys!

Orientation camp was a whirlwind of activities, parties and games based loosely (extremely loosely) on academics. I met so many people, I have no idea how I am EVER going to remember all the names!

The incoming class strikes me as being extremely smart (to be expected), quite social and down to earth. Pretty much everything that I would hope for future Rotman grads.

Groups

Today I spent some time looking at the people who are in my classes this year. As the majority of the classes I chose include group work, selecting people I want to work with is crucial.

It is quite difficult, however! I want to ensure that I have the best possible mix of students in my groups so that I am able to achieve to the highest level. Seriously, I'm going for straight-As this year!