Make Yourself Uncomfortable!
One of the coolest aspects of the Fisher MBA program has been the ability for me to get involved in things that allow me to get out of my comfort zone. This is a risk-free environment- why not?!
Classes:
I know that I will be entering into a marketing career upon graduation- because of this, I have viewed my 2nd year of school as a chance to take tough classes that will make me as well-rounded as possible. Both Intopia and Corporate Finance II have fit this bill for me:
Intopia: This is a business simulation class in which you and a team of two or three other people run a company in the PC and/or computer chip industry in one of three global markets. Decisions within all functional areas of business are required- finances, marketing, pricing, operations and R&D, just to name a few. As you can imagine- it is challenging and very complex!
Corp Fin II: This class takes a deep dive into mergers & acquisitions. The class is instructed by Senior Associate Dean Wruck, and has been the most worthwhile class I have taken during my time at Fisher. I have learned about analyzing mergers, acquisitions and corporate governance- which includes really cool subject matter like hostile takeovers, golden parachutes and poison pills. Take the class to learn what these crazy terms mean!
New Skills:
Last semester, I wanted to challenge myself to learn golf, and had an opportunity to sign up for lessons through the RPAC. I got together with a coach and three other trainees once a week to go over basic golf skills, including swing (yes, I can now effectively chip!), club selection, putting and even terminology. It provided great balance with class, and I now feel confident that I can practice this spring on a local course with classmates.
Teamwork:
Looking back on my experience so far, I am pleased that I have sought out unique teams for every elective class project in my second year. I feel that it is so valuable to hear different opinions and ways of thinking- if you continue to work with the same people for over and over, it will be hard to expand into new and different ways to solve problems.
My biggest piece of advice if you’re applying for or entering into the Fisher program- get involved in things that push you to your limits!