A Brand New World

This week's blog post by a first year International student. Jenny is in her first year in the MACC program.

As I sit here on a glorious fall weekend, ---I reflect on the past week and the upcoming weeks. In the last week, I finished three tests and interviewed with one of the big four firms. This week, I only have one assignment and another interview with another big four firm! - I realize that somehow we are half way through this semester… It feels like only a few days ago that I was sitting in orientation, wondering what life will be like as a MACC student here in a foreign country, within a totally new language and culture environment.

At the same time, I feel that I have learned so much! My English skills have greatly improved . I have learned about subject materials in Accounting, of course, but also about the less tangible things that we are supposed to learn- how to work in teams, how to manage my time, how to prioritize, how to network with professionals…I could go forever.

Frequently, people from my country, who consider UNC Charlotte as their future study abroad choice, ask me my reasons behind my choice. Initially, I was not sure how to answer them because there were many reasons. However the #1 reason, I chose UNC Charlotte is the city. I love it here. As the second largest financial center in the United States, it provides you a variety of opportunities. The second reason is the exceptional faculty.  You truly learn not only textbook knowledge but also their life or career experience.

I have only been in the MACC program at UNC Charlotte for less than five months, but it already appears that UNC Charlotte is “a brand new world” for me. In this short period, I have made my first presentation in front of my class, not in Chinese of course. I am a Belk College Graduate Fellows member, participating in all various professional events. I received an invitation from two of the big four accounting firms for an office visit. Currently, I am working with four team members to write a report in regards to corporate governance and ethics. On a daily basis, I seem to work on different activities that are outside of the classroom. That is the beauty of graduate life in business school.

Three years ago, I graduated from one of the top law schools in China. Instead of becoming a lawyer, I decided to come to the United States. Two years ago, I volunteered in my community as a Chinese teacher. A year ago, I seriously thought about my future and career, deciding to go back to school. Today I am sitting under a tree on such a wonderful weekend afternoon, still trying to figure out what I want out of life. The difference now is that through the MACC program at UNC Charlotte I’m learning all the business and life skills that I need to pursue whatever I choose, anywhere in the world..

The Power of a Network

A MBA student's network is just as crucial to one's job search as his/her academic development. As a second year student, I’ve evolved to uncover my network. I must say, the benefits of my network surpass education alone. My network has encouraged me to think out of the box to suggest various ideas in my internship. My network is my springboard to various project ideas and career strategies. Most importantly, my network is my foundation, confident and ally.

My network’s composition is not a segregated group only consisting of individuals within my respective career choice. I believe that my network’s strength is due to the diversity of its “members.” Now of course my network includes individuals who work in the career industry of interest; however, it includes individuals within the same industry but different positions. From experience, the diversity brings an assortment of ideas that allow me to broaden my horizons. As a result of my diverse group, it allows me to adopt a global perspective on my industry and respective career choice.

My network remains to be a work in progress. I continue to take advantage of opportunities to network with individuals within the various industries here in Charlotte.

Who is in your network?

Have a great weekend.

Center City Spotlight

Today is not a typical Thursday at UNC Charlotte's Center City building. Particularly for the seventh floor. The Seventh floor is home to the Graduate Business Programs office, the Center for Real Estate, and now a production set. Yes. I did say a production set.

The seventh floor buzzes with various production crew members, actors, actresses, and support staff to create a 30-second commercial for a major corporation. The Center City's architecture and design attracted the major corporation to choose the campus as the commercial's location.   Not only is our program recognized by major corporations throughout the country for a solid masters level education but also our unique physical design and location. The Center City facility is a landmark within Charlotte and the First Ward Community. Hopefully, the Center City campus will continue to be recognized in future endeavors.

Hopefully we all won't be distracted for too long. However I must say this is the Center City's highlight of the week! Have a great weekend.

The Importance of Balance

Written by: Current MBA Student & Belk College Fellow-Adam Olszak 

Whether you are a part time or full time student, time is a valuable commodity.  Not only do you have mid-terms coming up, but your family and friends might want to see you from time to time. 

So how do you balance in your personal and school life?  How do you juggle class attendance, homework, group projects, tests, work, family, and perhaps a social life?  You must have a plan!  Keep a calendar on all of your obligations.  It pays many dividends to get ahead as much as possible on your assigned readings and projects. There is nothing worse than pulling an all-nighter while finishing a project or cramming for a test. 

Besides planning, taking some you time is critical.  You have a lot going on and sometimes it might be best to just take a “time out.”  Put down your books and laptops every now and then and come up for air.  All work and no play make Jack or Jill a dull person! 

Pursuing a MBA is no small task.  Learning the material, networking, and being on the lookout for new career opportunities should always be at the forefront.  The best way to keep everything balanced is to have a plan of action.  When you’re done attacking your homework go do something you love, and get rejuvenated for the next round!