Finding Your People

The Graduate Business Association is a growing student organization under the Belk College of Business. The student organization boasts over 50 active members. The GBA's membership base includes students from our MBA, MACC, MAFI programs; however participants represent all graduate programs within the BCOB. The organization is a great way for students to develop their skills professionally but also to increase the bond of our internal graduate community. This past weekend, the GBA announced the 2012-2013 leadership. The leadership team includes individuals from a very diverse background which marries perfectly with the organization's goals and objectives. 

The Graduate Business Association is yet just one of many professional organizations throughout the Charlotte community. As a graduate business student, membership in one or multiple organizations of interest is crucial to maintain a diverse network. Membership is not just something to list on your resume but can also be a talking point or a link to an executive or a company of interest. As Robin Boswell, Director of Graduate Career Development, says. "Find Your People."

"Finding Your People" allows an individual to develop their resource foundation. Your network is not only resourceful for job connections but also general career advice. I use my network to navigate my way through management. I constantly relay my thoughts and ideas to gain criticism, feedback, and insight. The objective conversations help me to mold a "model" that works best for my work style.

Remember "Finding Your People" is an organic process. Start small and it will grow. Have a great weekend!

Fall Registration

UNC Charlotte Computer Classroom/Lab

As the week nears an end, students begin to make final adjustments to their Fall 2012 schedules. This is a moment of nostalgia for me. I remember the concern of being at the computer at exactly 11am to furiously type in the course codes. Most importantly, who can forget the moment when we all "held our breaths" after hitting the submit button hoping that we do not see the infamous RED error message.

As I approach the end of my UNC Charlotte's MBA program, I take a moment to reflect on my program's course schedule. My    two-year program went by quickly but was filled with numerous educational, professional, and personal experiences. Taking the time to meet with Jeremiah Nelson, Director of Graduate Business Programs, was critical to my success here in the MBA program. I was able to map out my education foundation and pair my courses with my career aspirations. Of course, this foundation changed and evolved of course as the months progressed due to time conflicts and  perquisite requirements, however the groundwork was set.

 Remember the faculty and professors are here to not only teach but to support. Reach out. Discuss your objectives. Then listen to the BCOB's feedback.

Good luck students on Monday! Happy Weekend!

Let the Games Begin

Today at noon, the NCAA community said "Let the Games Begin." For those not familiar with NCAA sports, today marks the first day of the first round of the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball tournaments. The excitement is in the air for current students, alumni, and the general community to rally behind their schools and favorite Division I leagues.

Even though UNC Charlotte was not chosen on Selection Sunday,March 11, the excitement is still in the air. UNC Charlotte has officially signed its 26th signee for inaugural football class and hired three to its staff. (To learn more visit. UNC Charlotte 49er Football ).  In addition to the growing team and respective coaching staff, the construction of our 15,000 seat stadium  remains "full speed ahead." To see live coverage of construction Click Here.

May the best team win. Have a great week!

Spring Break Rejuvenation

Spring is in the air. Tomorrow marks the beginning of Spring Break for Belk College of Business graduate students. Spring Break is the time to reflect on the first half of the semester.  The week-long vacation signals the midpoint of the semester and the final lap for those graduating in the Spring.

For those graduating student, spring break is a time to reflect on the his/her respective graduate program, academic accomplishments and achievements made throughout the year. Also it is a time to assess the relationships forged among students and business professionals in the Charlotte area. For others it might be ideal to fine-tune their resume, elevator speech, and/or networking skills to land that post-graduate job.

The key to Spring Break is rest and relaxation. It is important that we rest and take care of our mind and body. I will admit at times I forget to adopt this behavior myself; however taking the time to take care of your body is the rejuvenation needed to excel for the remainder of the semester. Especially given the fact that students have completed numerous project deadlines as well as midterms  in the last two weeks. Whether you take a day off, read a book, or enjoy your favorite hobby...make sure you REST!!! 

Happy Break!