New Beginnings

Hello there! 

If you've noticed the updated "About" section of the website, you'll notice that I've recently relocated to the wonderful city of Charlottesville, Virginia. Apart from exciting the traveler in me (see "The Travel Project"), it marks the newest chapter of my professional career. I was chosen to be a part of the McIntire School of Commerce's one-year M.S. in Commerce program.

So what led to this?

My experiences and education in advertising, coupled with my recent experience in consulting, led me to believe that the business world really isn't so far out of reach. As an advertising undergrad, I found it harder to break through into the consulting and business sphere; daunted by the challenges it might bring with it. That hope of living on the corner of business, advertising, and technology now seems like a reality within grasp as I focus on Marketing and Management within my new M.S. program.

So what's it been like so far?  

Downright phenomenal. The program began on August 13th, and I haven't looked back since. My comfort zone has permanently changed for the better, and my horizon has been extended further than ever before. We focus on real world cases, ranging from Etsy to Amazon to Delta Airlines (thank you, Harvard), and we lead the discussions with guidance from our professors. I'm learning Strategy + Systems, Financial Account, Managerial Accounting, Organizational Behavior, and Storytelling; that's just the beginning. 

So what next? 

For starters, finding the right work-life balance. I'd like to build a network with my peers, spend some time exploring this historical city, and just be present. The recruiting season for next year kicks off soon, so I know my time management will be tested. I'm excited. I'm prepared. 

I'll update you all as things move forward. This is me signing off. 

- P