The end of 2010

The holiday season seemed to sneak up on those in graduate school or just school period. For the last month, we have all worked furiously on group projects, papers, and final exam study guides. Now that school is over, we ask ourselves the two questions: Where did the time go?
And what do we now do with this extra time?

Well what I've decided to do with my "free" time is to reflect on this past year. 2010 began with mounds of snow and it appears that it is trying to end with a half of a mound of snow. During this reflection period, I have taken the time to evaluate the good, bad, and even the ugly and what've learned from those particular experiences.

After my reflection, I have started to work on the upcoming year's goals. It is not a long list however it is one that will challenge me. What will be on your list this year?

Don't party too hard on New Year's Eve. See you in the New Year.

End of the Semester

Let's just say this pictures says it all. I've finally reached the "light at the end of the tunnel." I was so relieved that instead of celebrating with dinner or a glass of wine with friends; I slept for 12 hours straight. I guess numerous all-nighters, pages of papers, and endless nights of studying caught up with me. I must say that I am relieved and proud of the completion of my first semester of graduate business school. ( Let's just say my facebook status say it all!) 

The first semester was truly an adjustment and a transition from a full-time job to a full-time student. It was quite a challenge to condition myself for my reading assignments, case analysis, and group projects. However my first semester allowed me to critique my strengths and weaknesses when it comes to my business knowledge.

I will say that I commend my fellow colleagues and anyone who is a part-time graduate student with a full time job. At times, I felt overwhelmed with my three courses but I could not imagine taking ONE course and working. (Of course this includes any additional personal obligations i.e. children, community service activities, etc.)

I want to say Congratulations to those who are graduating on Saturday. Everyone enjoy your break!

Time Management

Overwhelmed?

Graduate School is a test of time management. You learn how to effectively manage your time to complete and study the respective material...OK lets be realistic. Graduate School is about assessing individuals' level of procrastination. There is one question that needs to be asked to address this issue. "Do you wait until the absolute last second to complete projects or do you plan days/weeks ahead in order to tackle assignments?" On a scale of 1-10, where 10 is extreme procrastination, I am at 3.5.  How about we just round up to 4..... I am a level 4 on the scale of procrastination.

For me, I literally lock up if I do not plan ahead.  People who are close to me know how neurotic I can be. Let's say the running joke is that I have to schedule a time to "scratch my head" with random post-it reminders throughout my home, car, office etc. (Did I ever mention that I have a Type A personality.) 
       
If it makes one feel better, I used to be the queen of procrastination. I never studied for a test prior to the night before and I still graduated with a A- GPA. However my prior position changed all of that. Let's just say when you work in the insurance world due to numerous legal conditions one CANNOT wait until the last minute to renew a policy. (If you do and still have a job, you are GOOD). The insurance life works two months if not more ahead. So let's just say my 9.5 procrastination level dropped drastically to almost zero.

Truly, I commend anyone that can put together a project within hours and not break into a sweat.  I cannot grasp that concept. I know I mentioned that in prior years, I waited to the last minute with my academic work but that was the OLD "me." I suppose one can say that my prior employer's organizational culture converted me. I know that I produce my best work when I plan and have plenty of flexibility. When I am under pressure, I panic. My creativity evaporates. My brain freezes.  (Yes all three happens at once) At that particular point, my goal is no longer based on submitting my best work but just completing the minimum requirement(s).

Long story short, my hat goes off to those who can complete AMAZING work in very little time.

Stay warm and have a nice weekend!

Crunch Time!

Less than two weeks left until the end of the semester. What does that translate to: more Starbucks & less pillow time. In my opinion, my first semester has flown by. (I'm still unsure whether that is a good or a bad thing) Where did the time go? 

Like most students, I look forward to the end of the semester. The end of the semester means the holidays are near and I will soon be able to enjoy quality family time. However in the meantime, I must endure the crunch. The crunch where we all scramble to coordinate the last group meeting. The crunch where we run to the library or search the online database for hours to make sure we have all the necessary references for our final papers, and the list can go on and on.

I wish all my fellow graduate students good luck. Make sure to eat healthy and get plenty of rest.
Until next week, have a restful and great weekend!

Happy Thanksgiving

If only turkeys could be this lucky!!!!

I won't bore you today on this American tradition. I want to wish my audience a Happy Thanksgiving.  Last year this time I was in a food coma; however this year I am furiously trying to complete group projects. Also, this year's Thanksgiving "spread" includes my favorite food: SUSHI!!!!! So I am super thankful.

I do want to say that I am thankful for everyone who is a loyal follower to this blog. In addition, I am thankful for the Belk College of Business' support throughout my three months here at UNC Charlotte and in the Charlotte area.

Don't forget to count your blessing and say "Thank You" whenever you can. Do not judge those who are less unfortunate because at any moment everything is important to you can be taken away from you. My heart goes out to those who enduring hardships over the holiday season. Keep your head up and maintain a positive attitude and things will turn. :)

Happy Thanksgiving to all!!!!!

Giving Back

I strongly believe that our duty here on this earth is not only to take care of it (GO GREEN!) but also to give back to the community.  The idea of assisting my community whether it is participating in a school supply drive or preparing dinner for families at the Ronald McDonald House, I am making an impact. I know for me sometimes, I get caught up in the size of my contribution. i.e. only if I do something "GRAND" will it make an impact on an organization or individual but this is far from the case.

This week, I assisted Hands On Charlotte sorting clothing for the Crisis Assistance Ministry store.  This was my first time and I enjoyed the opportunity to interact with individuals throughout the Charlotte community while preparing items for the Ministry's store. Afterwards, I left with a sense of accomplishment. I knew that my help in the long run would help an individual by providing them with the necessary clothing for a job interview, cold weather, etc.

This year, UNC Charlotte's Graduate Business Association adopted two local Charlotte children as a part of the Salvation Army Angel program.  This is one of my favorite holiday projects. When I was younger, my family would participate in our church's annual angel tree program. We would have a blast shopping for newborns to children who were my age at the time. I've always wanted to see the children's faces when they open their gifts...but I have an idea it included a BIG SMILE.

In addition to the two children, GBA created a Kiva community team. A couple of months, I was introduced to the micro-finance concept and Kiva. For those who are unfamiliar with this concept, you, the lender, can provide a loan to an entrepreneur of your choice throughout the world. The loan can be as small as $25. Once the entrepreneur repays the loan you can take the amount and re-lend. It is a cycle that just keeps giving. After learning about this concept from UNC Charlotte's Director of Graduate Student Service, I immediately latched on. The idea that with $25 I can help businesses throughout the world is amazing to me. Not only do you help someone from an economic standpoint but also from a social aspect. Providing these loans empowers the individuals to continue to pursue their entrepreneurial goals and presents them as a positive example in his/her community.

 If you would like to learn more I strongly suggest you read "The Blue Sweater" by Jacqueline Novagratiz. (See link under Reading List for more details)

If you are interested in participating in GBA's holiday initiative contact mba@uncc.edu.

Have a nice weekend!!!!

Go 49ers

Tomorrow afternoon is game day!!! UNC Charlotte will host Gardner-Webb at 4pm in the Halton Arena. Not only is it the season opener but it is also the first game for our new Men's basketball head coach, Alan Major!!!

I must admit I get an adrenaline rush just thinking about NCAA Basketball.   It is rather ironic that my undergraduate Alma Mater and my graduate institution play in the same league...It will be tough decision come game day. 

Come out and support the Green and Gold!!!! It will be an awesome season.

Who has YOUR back?

What I have learned this week is the value of my support system. When deciding two years ago that I wanted to pursue my MBA degree in the upcoming years, I received extreme encouragement from my family members and closest friends. Through the strenuous GMAT studying period and the $250 check cashing (scheduling the GMAT) period came once again my anxiety levels were relieved by my support system. When it came time to choose which university I would attend to complete my Master in Business Administration degree I did not seek out my support system. *gasp*

I know you might have a question mark on your face. No I did not consult my "usual" support group when it came time to for me to make my final decision. Instead, I contacted the graduate programs contact at each school. These individuals did not know me beyond my online application but that did not stop me. I wanted to know if the university was truly dedicated to their students. Some of the questions I pondered were: "Do they (the business departments) merely view students as a revenue stream and are the faculty just for a paycheck?" This was an important question to me based on past experiences. Let's be realistic, times are tough. From my work in the corporate world, I've observed individuals attitudes change. No longer are individuals dedicated to going above and beyond but have adopted a " I will only perform what is in my job description." With this said, I wanted to know if the university's faculty would be willing to go above and beyond or at least adopt a 'Can do attitude" to assist their students as best as they can. Well I received my answer at UNC Charlotte.

In recent weeks, a fellow classmate and I were talking about the business school in general and our prior academic experiences. Once again this topic came up with mutual agreement. Chad Miller is an MBA candidate like myself who I wanted to share his thoughts in my blog.

I am continuously impressed with UNC Charlotte's faculty and staff. The faculty and staff dedication is apparent not just on paper but in their actions. UNC Charlotte's staff will do the best they can with any situation to assist a student in their respective endeavors. From my encounters, the faculty continue to have a positive attitude even though some of my questions do not have immediate "yes" or "no" responses. I truly feel comfortable contacting the Belk College of Business faculty and or staff which is something I was not able to do as easily in prior years. (I promise that this is not scripted a)

My point in all of this is to seek out a support system in every step in your life. In less than 4 months of me being in the MBA program, I have a mentor and a network of faculty that I can consult to assist me over the next two years. These individuals continue to make my time here Can you say that about your current environment?




Just something to think about. Have a nice weekend!

Happy 40th Anniversary Belk College

Next week is the Belk College's 40^th anniversary celebration. The Belk College of Business has made notable strides and a name for themselves in the Charlotte business community. The Belk college has more than 2,500 undergraduate, 500 graduate students, 84 full-time faculty and more than 19,500 alumni. The college continues to enhance its business research and education levels in the community as well. The Belk College has created an open and inclusive culture that allows students and the business community to share thoughts, ideas, and network across multiple disciplines.
Next fall, the Belk College will open its Uptown building which is located on 7^th and Brevard. This building is a state of the art contemporary structure which will hold all graduate classes. I've driven by this building several times on my way home and it is striking. I believe the building is a true physical representation of the Belk College. Its features reflect our innovative mindset and desire to be a leader in the Charlotte community.

Come out and celebrate this milestone downtown at the Ritz Carlton Charlotte.  The authors of Freakonomics will be there! It's not too late to RSVP!(http://www.belkcollege.uncc.edu/default.asp?id=254)

 Have a safe Halloween weekend.

Stake Your Claim in 49er Football!

"ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL Well UNC Charlotte is and will be Fall 2013. Today's blog inspiration stems a bit from the prior weekend's games and the Carolina Panthers first win this season.
For me, I am looking forward to UNC Charlotte's inaugural football game. I grew up in an area where Friday nights in the Fall was reserved for high school football. It was just a matter of which one to attend. Of course as a typical teenager, I did not pay that much attention to the game as I did making sure I was sitting as far away from my parents as possible but nevertheless I never missed a game. My high school did not have an award winning record or a star player who headlined the paper every Saturday morning; however football the school and community together. Football games created numerous memories for me. Those memories range from Homecoming to Senior Night! My undergraduate alma mater did not have a football team which at first I did not think was going to be a big deal since I preferred basketball over football…but in the end it was. I guess you can say that I missed the "RUSH" from being in a football stadium. I would hear from my friends at other colleges about how they were excited and preparing for Homecoming. I never had that experience during my 4 years in undergrad. To be honest, every year I would attend my hometown's university homecoming instead. So I am definitely looking forward to the 49ers team. Unfortunately, I will be a graduate by the time 2013 rolls around but I am still thrilled.
Last week, I attended UNC Charlotte's Executive Speaker Series at the Ritz Carlton Charlotte. The speaker for the evening was Judy Rose, Director of Athletics at UNC Charlotte. During her speech, she showed the attendees pictures of the stadium and discussed some of the events that led to the creation of UNC Charlotte's football team. It was interesting to learn the numerous marketing strategies developed and research conducted in order for the University to make this announcement a couple of months ago. I will agree with a comment that Judy did made on Wednesday. "For the next 6-7 years, UNC Charlotte will be everyone's homecoming game." But WHO CARES. WE WILL HAVE FOOTBALL!! It is only natural that the team will be the butt of jokes and sportscaster commentary prior to the inaugural game; but it is a part of being the "new kids on the block."
A Football team would bring a level of an engagement to UNC Charlotte and the Charlotte community. I know I am looking forward to tailgating and wearing Green and Gold. What about you?
Have a nice week.

The Value of a MBA

This week I had an epiphany. I didn't move to Charlotte solely to attend class, participate in groups projects, and study for exams. I moved to Charlotte to network and gain experience in the branding industry. This week, I've blown the dust off of my internship hat and begun scouting various companies in the Charlotte area. (Believe it or not, the summer will be here in heartbeat). I'm working on a roadmap of what exactly I am looking to accomplish over the summer. In addition, I am in the process of networking with those individuals who can guide me throughout this process either from a professional or personal level. I do truly believe that a person's success is not only based on their internal ambition but also their external support system. When one surrounds themselves with positive motivators, not necessarily people "like" them, he/she will see a substantial difference. I think that some people believe that if they surround themselves with people ONLY in top management positions…they've got it made. I beg to differ.
I had a conversation with a friend of mine this week in regards to my program. My friend inquired about how classes were treating me and what I planned to do with my degree upon graduation. I briefly discussed my career plans and how I plan to take advantage of the Charlotte community to network with the "necessary" individuals. In our conversation, we discussed how unfortunately when some people achieve notable professional achievements the individual loses themselves. He/she becomes so involved in their title that they forget their network that was by their side well before he/she was at the pinnacle of his/her career. I think we have all seen this happen countless times. This is something that baffles me. For me, I am appreciative of every interaction that I have made in my years of living whether it was with the VP of a business unit at my prior company to the housekeeping staff at my high school. Each interaction made a difference in my career and the development of who I am. I do not believe in shunning those who are not in my "social status." Now if one has a negative impact in my life that is a different story. However just because an individual's status/position is not where "I approve" it to be doesn't mean the person should be considered beneath me. I think I should just stop here….Something to think about.
Well that is my soapbox this week. It was a little off the norm but one's foundation & network does have an impact on future outcomes & character. Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

GMAT or no GMAT?





Sentence correction. Critical reasoning. Data sufficiency. Problem solving. Yes, it is that time of year again! GMAT TESTING! YAY!!!  (sarcastic tone).

Look Familiar anyone?

Standardized testing seems to haunt me every step of the education process. I must say that the test, well any form of standardized testing is an intimidating factor especially on the graduate level. You’ve graduate from secondary school ages ago and now you have to learn the basics. Pythagorean theorem anyone?

So what if the GMAT was eliminated? What if an applicant can receive a “waiver” if he/she has at least 10 years of solid work experience? Some graduate business programs are contemplating this same question or already decided to remove the test from the admission process.  Those schools who removed removed the

 GMAT has indirectly increased their application pool. It is known in the admissions world that there are a percentage potential candidates who choose to withdraw their application because of the GMAT alone. But is the GMAT a means of "weeding" out those individuals who are not that serious? Is it a quick measuring tool for schools to keep their "award winning" statistics? Or is it an adequate test to evaluate one’s future academic performance?

So what is my point of view….I believe that the GMAT test should not be eliminated from the admission process. I will be honest and admit that I had a difficult time with the test. I took the GMAT twice, studied almost every day and enrolled in a preparatory class. Needless to say I invested a substantial amount of time and money into this test. For me personally, I would not apply to programs that did not have a GMAT as a requirement. I do believe that if you have in excess of 8+ industry specific work experience, an applicant should be waived from taking the exam.  However I do want to make it VERY CLEAR that I do not feel that the GMAT is a definitive evaluation of one’s future academic performance or success. 

What do you think? Would you apply to program where you know the GMAT is not a requirement or would release a sigh of relief? Just something to think about....

Have a nice weekend!

My "MINT" break.

Last weekend was the grand opening celebration of the Mint Museum UPTOWN. Sunday, I decided to take a "quick" break from my marketing study schedule to take in the remaining festivities.  The exterior of The Mint Museum UPTOWN reminded me of Chicago. The crisp lines, sharp angles, and contemporary feel of the museum welcomed me as I turned the corner on Tryon Street.

As I walked up the red carpet, leftover from Friday's Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, I could not help but marvel at the four story glass atrium. What is really intriguing is the video artwork on the building across the street. The museum consists of a family gallery, conference rooms, two levels of art galleries, and auditorium space.

I do not want to spoil a potential trip to the museum but I do want to share some highlights. I LOVED the fact that there was a cell phone audio tour. Scattered throughout the museum, one can find various pieces with a code to call in. The code may direct you to a voice recording of the artist, Mint staff, or the Executive Director of the Mint Museum. The individual will explain the construction, meaning, and/or history of the assigned artwork. The Mint Museum I feel shows their knowledge of today's technology trends & innovation. Also this is the first time, I have visited a museum and did not have to pay $5 for the 1993 cordless phone *ahem* audio tour. 

Ted Noten "Woman & 400 Daisies"

Ted Noten's "Women & 400 Daisies" caught my eye. This was by far my favorite piece in the entire museum. I will not steal the artwork's "thunder." However the creation of this piece is why I love it so! I literally walked back to this particular artwork twice because I was so intrigued.

The museum has several hands on stations throughout each gallery. I particularly liked the questionnaires in the American Art gallery.  The questionnaires engaged me throughout my tour of Trumbull & Copley's work. (It is ironic that the entire gallery was my Art History class from 2005). 

The two inaugural exhibitions are "New Visions: Contemporary Masterworks from the Bank of America  Collection" and "Contemporary British Studio Ceramics: The Grainer Collection." I appreciated the Grainer's Collection. When I think of ceramics the first country that comes to mind is not Great Britain. Through this collection, you can learn more about the history of ceramics in Great Britain as well as see the artist's influences from Roman culture to every day activities/uses. The BOFA Collection consisted of various contemporary pieces on canvas, lithographs, and sculpture.

Unfortunately, I had to return to studying. however The MINT Museum was a rewarding break instead of me watching another episode of Grey's Anatomy.

Check out the MINT Museum Uptown. The Museum will host First Fridays. music & movies once a month, and numerous events for both members & nonmembers. I know I will be back soon and plan on taking my guests there as well!


Have a nice weekend!

Find Your People!

Robin Boswell, Director of Graduate Student Career Development at the Belk College at UNC Charlotte, put it best..."Find Your People." Now for the subsequent question: "WHO are my people?" Well to answer that question, one has to perform an internal search. But before we do that, let’s look at the obvious questions first: What do you see in the mirror? Are you male or female? Do you belong to a particular ethnic background(s)? What generation or age bracket do you belong to? These answers should narrow your list to about 20 organizations.

Now time for the internal search: “What industry interests you? What career field/industry are you looking to pursue or currently in? Where is your targeted audience? Now take these answers to Google. Most likely the combination of answers from the above paragraph and the subsequent questions narrowed your list to 5 or less organizations. (At least it did for me with the help of Robin. *smile*)

Answering these questions created my networking foundation. It gave me peace of mind that I am not wandering aimlessly through the Charlotte business community. With Robin’s help, I created a targeted list of local and national organizations that will assist me in my field of interest. Now onto the second half once you find your people…network. (Not going to lie in the past, I would rather catch the plague then to network. However I’ve conquered that hurdle. I’m ready to tackle upcoming events b/c I have a FOCUS!)

I would like to pass on a book recommendation to you: "Never Eat Alone" by Keith Ferrazzi. This book was recommended to me by a manager at a branding firm. For those who run when they hear the word "networking" like I did this is for you.

So….FIND YOUR PEOPLE & Enjoy your weekend!

Self Reflection

Over the last seven days, I participated in two independent recruiting events on behalf of the Belk College of Business Graduate Programs. The first event was a Graduate School Fair at Johnson C. Smith University, a HBCU located in Uptown Charlotte, NC and the second an information session held on UNC Charlotte's main campus.

The graduate school fair reminded me of how daunting the GMATS were to tackle. I will be honest; taking the GMAT was something I was hoping to avoid. I remember taking the GMAT test for the first time and being disappointed that I did not score the same as I did on practice tests. I was adamant about not taking the test again. I mean who wants to shell out another $250 but then I quickly reminded myself of my long term career goals. (How quickly I tend to forget at times *smile*)

Yesterday's information session was an excellent turnout. The event was held in the Friday building in which majority of students were interested in the MBA program. Questions varied from GMAT scores, time commitment, class size, and of course the infamous question COST. From an out of state student’s perspective, UNC Charlotte's cost is attractive. The value of my degree is an estimated $55K and I am not only paying half this price. (After going to the most expensive undergraduate program in the country...this is GREAT news to hear!)

I'm happy I had the opportunity in the last week to attend these two events. Both sessions reminded me of one of reasons why I chose UNC Charlotte's program. I've only been in Charlotte and in school a little over a month and I must say that I am proud 49ner. The faculty members here are resourceful and you definitely gain a sense of community. In addition, the networking opportunities are countless. (I have already met with two businesses in my industry of interest.) Who else can say that?
Needless to say yesterday, I left campus feeling proud and reminded I made one of the best decisions in my career & life:)

Market Yourself in Resumes & Online Seminar

This week in grad life, I attended a career development seminar conducted by Robin Boswell, Director of Career Development at the Belk College. At first, I was slightly hesitant in regards to attending this seminar because I felt that it was “too early” in my career. However I quickly talked myself out of that one. I’m a graduate business student. It is never too early. :-)

Key touchpoints from this hour long session included the “hidden job market,” key words, and resume manipulation. My personal takeaway was uncovering what makes “ME” unique from the hundreds/thousands candidates out there. That is a question that I honestly do not know the answer too but Robin posed a good point. It may take some time to think about the answer however that is one of the major points in order to be successful in marketing yourself. If one does not know how the answer to this question, how can you convince a potential employer to hire you from the remaining job applicants.

As we know everything is digital. So to keep up with the digital trend, why not do a Video CV? (Never thought about this as well).

This seminar was an excellent reminder not only for business school students but anyone considering a career change or a new company. In today’s times, it is easy to get discouraged or think that “You” know everything there is to know about the job search. But who knows everything. (Well I thought I did when I was 8. No lie. Another long story).

This is was an excellent seminar for prospective, current students, alumni, and the Charlotte community. Just another way, UNC Charlotte connects the Charlotte community! (I’m not just saying this).

Welcome First Year Belk College MBA Orientation

Last weekend, The Westin Hotel in Uptown Charlotte hosted the Belk College of Business Graduate School’s orientation. The orientation held about 175 MACC, MBA, MS in Economics, & MS in Mathematical Finance students.

Belk College Orientation @ Westin Hotel

Dr. Kohut, Director of the MBA program, did an excellent job welcoming the group to the MBA Program and the UNC Charlotte's. Afterwards, we were assigned a group case analysis. *surprise* The room was divided into groups of four. Each group was assigned a scenario based on specific yet fictional ethical dilemmas involving UNC Charlotte’s Belk College of Business. Upon completion of the case, each group answered several follow up questions based on their readings to present to the class. I appreciated the fact that not only did we, the students, have the opportunity to discuss our interpretation of the various scenarios but also several faculty members were assigned scenarios to present their interpretations. This exercise was a good opportunity for us to network with each other and engage is various conversations. The culmination of the evening consisted of a reception yet another networking opportunity to connect with other new students in the various programs, faculty, and staff.

 Venture Challenge Course

For those students in MBAD 6100, we participated in a 2-day orientation in which the second half was a Venture Challenge Course on Saturday Afternoon. This brought back flashbacks (good of course) of my middle/high school years. (Begin Tangent ) Shortly after the beginning of each school term, each grade had a Ropes Course Day. On “Ropes Course” day the students were divided into smaller groups to participate in various low activities. Each activity’s goal was an opportunity for the new students to assimilate with the returning students. Senior year of course was the highlight because that was the year we were able to do the high activities. i.e. zipline. (Complete Tangent)

As you might guess the first activity at the Venture Course was Networking….We are in the Business school. :) During our walk to the course itself, we had the opportunity to network with 3 individuals. Upon reaching our destination, we were divided in groups in which we networked with 8 of our team members and then divided again to our final group.

In the midst of the heat, the group survived 4 activities that were unique in nature. Each activity required everyone’s cooperation and led back to the topic of business. I can honestly say that I had a GREAT group. Everyone in my group contributed, expressed his/her thoughts, and cooperated. (This is the ideal work environment!) We fought through 90+ degree weather, sweat, and miscellaneous bugs in order to accomplish our goals. Just like the tribes participating in an immunity challenge on Survivor . Overall, the two day orientation was a great welcome and beginning to Graduate School Life!

Good Luck to all MBA Candidates!!!

Today is the beginning of my first two years. For two years, I have decided to take a substantial pay cut, move to Charlotte, NC, and begin as a full time student at UNC Charlotte. In today’s economic times why would I pack up and leave Northern Virginia unemployed. One word: Investment. We all hear about investing in stocks, mutual funds, housing (well that’s in question nowadays) etc ; but in order to be able to invest in the above I need a solid education to back me up.

The common question I hear is why did you leave the DC metro area for Charlotte? A) I’ve always loved Charlotte. Charlotte is the second largest financial center in the country and global HQ for several Fortune 500 companies. In addition, it is one of the fastest growing metropolitan cities in the U.S. B). UNC Charlotte is one of the fastest growing schools in the State of North Carolina with STRONG ties to the local business community.  C) cost of living & I-95 DC breaks you down after a while.

After traveling over 300+ miles in a 15ft. truck and lugging my life onto the 4th floor of my new apartment, I’m all geared up for the grad student life. Of course like any student, starting in a new environment , one has jitters which means one thing…zero sleep. Paranoia about oversleeping my alarm and being late on the first day of work was a major concern. For the first time in 10 years, I was able to travel 8 miles on the highway in 15 minutes during rush hour. (If you have ever lived or visited a city, you know this is an accomplishment). So I braved the first hurdle, the next…. Parking. Now being that I am from a city, I was dependent on public transportation. So parking aka the 8x8 that we all fight for in order to be closer to class and to be on time was nerve wracking. I heeded the warning of showing up to campus an hour early. Parking a piece of cake. *Knock on wood*

So far so good…completed the GA position now off to my first class on the Uptown campus.

Spotlight: Rise and Shine! Iconic Center City Building Comes Online

Spotlight: Rise and Shine! Iconic Center City Building Comes Online