Count
3/26/2006
3/18/2006
Well spent...!
There goes another $12,000... what happened this quarter? Let's see: quarter started, interviews started, got an offer, accepted an offer, final marketing paper on frozen dog food, quarter ended. Sweet, I paid $12,000 to experience five things!
I'm so looking forward to Spring quarter! What happens then anyway? Do we have so much free time we don't know what to do? Would we study hard? Oh the mystery!
I'm so looking forward to Spring quarter! What happens then anyway? Do we have so much free time we don't know what to do? Would we study hard? Oh the mystery!
3/17/2006
Ultimate question
This is from a few weeks ago during Admit Weekend for GSB. I've been meaning to talk about this. An admit asked (I got this from my friend - an admit herself - who sat at the same table with this guy during lunch) "they say HBS trains great leaders, and GSB trains great people to work for them. What do you think about that comment?"
Hmmm... it really depends on who you ask.
Ted S: Chicago GSB is not for everyone
Julie M: Our students are doing great with recruiters
Rose M: I cannot comment on other schools
Eugene F: That's an efficient market
Dick T: That's not an efficient market
Roman W: Which accounting text book do they use?
Robert F: Does HBS have a Nobel Prize winner teaching business ethics? Do they teach ethics?
Facilitator: You need more LEAD training
IBG co-chairs: HBS graduates can't read accounting statements
MCG co-chairs: HBS graduates can't do a discounted cash flow analysis
Urban Enterprise co-chairs: Do they have a urban neighborhood to work with?
Bad Me: Did you get into HBS? Probably not because you're here having lunch with me. If that comment is true, then maybe that's an indication that they don't think you aren't going to be a good leader and that we think you are going to be a great follower. What was the comment again?
Good Me: The GSB cirriculum is all about flexibility. If you wanted to, you can always take classes that emphasize leadership. Leaders make themselves; they aren't made by this school or that school. I don't know anything about HBS classes, but GSB classes certainly include all areas of expertise. You can take the most sophisticated finance classes here, or you could take leadership classes that emphasize strategy and people. That's what's great about the GSB, it's all up to you.
A few days later (no joke), our marketing professor comments that "a great business person owns a BMW 7-series, a rolex, and a GSB analyst. Don't be that analyst."
Indeed.
Hmmm... it really depends on who you ask.
Ted S: Chicago GSB is not for everyone
Julie M: Our students are doing great with recruiters
Rose M: I cannot comment on other schools
Eugene F: That's an efficient market
Dick T: That's not an efficient market
Roman W: Which accounting text book do they use?
Robert F: Does HBS have a Nobel Prize winner teaching business ethics? Do they teach ethics?
Facilitator: You need more LEAD training
IBG co-chairs: HBS graduates can't read accounting statements
MCG co-chairs: HBS graduates can't do a discounted cash flow analysis
Urban Enterprise co-chairs: Do they have a urban neighborhood to work with?
Bad Me: Did you get into HBS? Probably not because you're here having lunch with me. If that comment is true, then maybe that's an indication that they don't think you aren't going to be a good leader and that we think you are going to be a great follower. What was the comment again?
Good Me: The GSB cirriculum is all about flexibility. If you wanted to, you can always take classes that emphasize leadership. Leaders make themselves; they aren't made by this school or that school. I don't know anything about HBS classes, but GSB classes certainly include all areas of expertise. You can take the most sophisticated finance classes here, or you could take leadership classes that emphasize strategy and people. That's what's great about the GSB, it's all up to you.
A few days later (no joke), our marketing professor comments that "a great business person owns a BMW 7-series, a rolex, and a GSB analyst. Don't be that analyst."
Indeed.
3/14/2006
Uh, yes, I think we should go, too
My trip back from SF. I knew I was going to be rocked because of the West Coast Midwest travel. My flight was scheduled to leave at 6:20pm, which would bring me back to Chicago at around 12:20am. Fair enough, considering that I'm using my miles to pay for the trip. Anyway, trouble was on its way when our flight was delayed coming into SF.
"We will now depart at 6:33pm"... "6:40pm" "6:45pm" "7:00pm". Do you wonder why all the small incriments? Maybe United thinks that we won't notice the smaller differences? Anyway, when we depart really doesn't concern me. When we ARRIVE, now that's a completely different animal. At 7:00pm, we were let into the plane. Per my experience, must get on fast so I have a place for my oversized carryon. And I found one right above my seat. Perfect. I sit down and start doing a Sudoku (I'm so addicted now).
And then came the panicky passengers and stewardess. It's always a bad sign when the plane is about 95% full, and people are refusing to move because they can't fit their carryons into the overhead bins. People started to raise their voices. And then came the steward: "can't you people sit down?" Gee, all that union training, and that's how you herd angry passengers? When it was all said and done, he took some luggage out to check in, and then proceeded to work on the overhead bin where my carryon was. I don't think this description does this justice: but he jumped up, grabed the top of the closing lid, and slammed it against my bag. Of course it wouldn't close, so he slams it again. I'm a bit speechless right now. Now's he's pressing. And pressing. And BANG. He BREAKS the lid! It's now hanging off a piece of metal.
10 minutes later, the pilot comes to inspect the damage, the destroyer disappeared (I'm really wondering what happened to him... back to the story) and a United maintenance guy shows up. With duct tape. Got to love the duct tape technology. He ended up taking the entire lid away (not before, naturally, really trying to break it while pieces of plastic and metal flew into horrified passengers). And my carryon? Sir, you have to check it in.
We're off at 7:45pm, finally! And scheduled for a 1:30am arrival! Yay! Me being me, this of course is not the end of things.
I was waiting for my bag when I noticed the taxi line growing exponentially. So I went out to give it a look, asked how long the line was and so on. And then I found myself locked out of the airport! Apparently some doors are locked from the inside to make sure security is okay. So I had to take this big 10 minute detour to get back inside the terminal. Meanwhile, the clock just hit 2:00am.
After a lot of yelling and screaming (people trying to cut lines at the taxi stand, so on and so forth), I finally get on a cab. "Sir, would you like to share a ride and save $15?" Certainly! Girl gets in after me. Big Fat guy gets in the front. And a forth guy loaded his stuff and squeezed into the back seat. The driver gets in and asks for the destination... and then the forth guy suddenly says "fuck this" and gets off the cab. He swears at the driver and says he will take his own cab. The driver takes the beating and helps to get his luggage out... and proceeds back into the mob to look for a person with similar destinations. 2:30 am.
Finally, he gives up and says "I think we should go." Amen, brother, amen.
"We will now depart at 6:33pm"... "6:40pm" "6:45pm" "7:00pm". Do you wonder why all the small incriments? Maybe United thinks that we won't notice the smaller differences? Anyway, when we depart really doesn't concern me. When we ARRIVE, now that's a completely different animal. At 7:00pm, we were let into the plane. Per my experience, must get on fast so I have a place for my oversized carryon. And I found one right above my seat. Perfect. I sit down and start doing a Sudoku (I'm so addicted now).
And then came the panicky passengers and stewardess. It's always a bad sign when the plane is about 95% full, and people are refusing to move because they can't fit their carryons into the overhead bins. People started to raise their voices. And then came the steward: "can't you people sit down?" Gee, all that union training, and that's how you herd angry passengers? When it was all said and done, he took some luggage out to check in, and then proceeded to work on the overhead bin where my carryon was. I don't think this description does this justice: but he jumped up, grabed the top of the closing lid, and slammed it against my bag. Of course it wouldn't close, so he slams it again. I'm a bit speechless right now. Now's he's pressing. And pressing. And BANG. He BREAKS the lid! It's now hanging off a piece of metal.
10 minutes later, the pilot comes to inspect the damage, the destroyer disappeared (I'm really wondering what happened to him... back to the story) and a United maintenance guy shows up. With duct tape. Got to love the duct tape technology. He ended up taking the entire lid away (not before, naturally, really trying to break it while pieces of plastic and metal flew into horrified passengers). And my carryon? Sir, you have to check it in.
We're off at 7:45pm, finally! And scheduled for a 1:30am arrival! Yay! Me being me, this of course is not the end of things.
I was waiting for my bag when I noticed the taxi line growing exponentially. So I went out to give it a look, asked how long the line was and so on. And then I found myself locked out of the airport! Apparently some doors are locked from the inside to make sure security is okay. So I had to take this big 10 minute detour to get back inside the terminal. Meanwhile, the clock just hit 2:00am.
After a lot of yelling and screaming (people trying to cut lines at the taxi stand, so on and so forth), I finally get on a cab. "Sir, would you like to share a ride and save $15?" Certainly! Girl gets in after me. Big Fat guy gets in the front. And a forth guy loaded his stuff and squeezed into the back seat. The driver gets in and asks for the destination... and then the forth guy suddenly says "fuck this" and gets off the cab. He swears at the driver and says he will take his own cab. The driver takes the beating and helps to get his luggage out... and proceeds back into the mob to look for a person with similar destinations. 2:30 am.
Finally, he gives up and says "I think we should go." Amen, brother, amen.
3/06/2006
Oscars!
Some of the highlights:
Nicole Kidman - always stunning; Ben Stiller - HILARIOUS!; Naomi Watts - wow; Its hard out here for a pimp - rappers "saying" thank you; Zhang Ziyi - she's so cute; Jennifer Gartner - this is evil, but I wish she did fall down... ; Uma Thurman - there's something about that smile; Dustin Hoffman - always liked his improvs; Jack Nicholson - time to take medicine, dude.
Undoubtedly, Brokeback Mountain and Crash were the talk of the Oscars. I find this years Oscars to be one of the best in the last few years. I mean, Gladiator as Best Picture!? Anyway, back to our stars this year.
Brokeback Mountain... I don't know if I discussed this on my blog, but I really liked the movie. Calling it a "Gay Cowboy" movie is such a shame. Dare I say that it transcends sexual orientation... the movie is about love and the obstacles that (cannot) prevent people from loving. Unfortunately, ignorance is always among us.
Speaking of ignorance, I have ro re-re-re-recommend Crash. I remember watching it with my girlfriend and I was so moved by the movie that I am still talking about it now - almost a year later! Anyway, regardless of the debate of "Brokeback vs. Crash," I think Crash is by far the more important film of the two.
A couple of comments: I agree with Best Director and Best Picture. Brokeback Mountain was done stunningly. Is that a word, by the way? I hope that Crash will be shown more often to generations to come. It deserves Best Picture. And the general theme of this years' Oscars seems to be the politically charged films that were nominated. Clearly, current world affairs have really led to production of these films. While the Vietnam Wars led to a bunch of war movies discussing the moral of wars and the men in it, the last fews years (post-911, post-Bush re-election, current-phobia) have finally let to some films that are more critical of what is happening in the world.
Nicole Kidman - always stunning; Ben Stiller - HILARIOUS!; Naomi Watts - wow; Its hard out here for a pimp - rappers "saying" thank you; Zhang Ziyi - she's so cute; Jennifer Gartner - this is evil, but I wish she did fall down... ; Uma Thurman - there's something about that smile; Dustin Hoffman - always liked his improvs; Jack Nicholson - time to take medicine, dude.
Undoubtedly, Brokeback Mountain and Crash were the talk of the Oscars. I find this years Oscars to be one of the best in the last few years. I mean, Gladiator as Best Picture!? Anyway, back to our stars this year.
Brokeback Mountain... I don't know if I discussed this on my blog, but I really liked the movie. Calling it a "Gay Cowboy" movie is such a shame. Dare I say that it transcends sexual orientation... the movie is about love and the obstacles that (cannot) prevent people from loving. Unfortunately, ignorance is always among us.
Speaking of ignorance, I have ro re-re-re-recommend Crash. I remember watching it with my girlfriend and I was so moved by the movie that I am still talking about it now - almost a year later! Anyway, regardless of the debate of "Brokeback vs. Crash," I think Crash is by far the more important film of the two.
A couple of comments: I agree with Best Director and Best Picture. Brokeback Mountain was done stunningly. Is that a word, by the way? I hope that Crash will be shown more often to generations to come. It deserves Best Picture. And the general theme of this years' Oscars seems to be the politically charged films that were nominated. Clearly, current world affairs have really led to production of these films. While the Vietnam Wars led to a bunch of war movies discussing the moral of wars and the men in it, the last fews years (post-911, post-Bush re-election, current-
Finally, a work out!
Man, I am really out of shape. This is my second workout in the last seven days. And my legs are still sore from my first time... I think I need two weeks to recover.
3/01/2006
"I'm feeling a bit gassy today"
Ah, the dilemma in life.
What should I, as the driver, do when one of my passengers says "I'm feeling a bit gassy today"?
Open the window in sub-zero Chicago weather?
Kick him or her off the car?
"Hold it in, damn it!"?
Somewhere, there is a business story to be told. (Thank you GSB.) Clearly my passenger knew before he or she enter my car that there was a problem by saying "today." Clearly the problem has already surfaced, or else he or she would not have stated his or her (ALRIGHT, it's a HE. HE. HE. HE. I'm sick of this he or she stuff) problem. Clearly this is something that probably can only be slightly contained. Not too clear is how bad the problem is...
What could have been done differently?
"Manage expectations" - tell the boss (me the driver) of the problem before it comes out (pardon the pun).
"Expect the worst" - don't say "a bit"... say "very" in case it comes out worse than you thought
"Refer to the problem" - including "I" may cause personal attacks.
"Offer solution" - even if its impossible, at least it seems genuine.
Solution: "Sorry, my isn't working well today. It is going to be a rough ride home today. I don't mind taking the train home by myself."
What should I, as the driver, do when one of my passengers says "I'm feeling a bit gassy today"?
Open the window in sub-zero Chicago weather?
Kick him or her off the car?
"Hold it in, damn it!"?
Somewhere, there is a business story to be told. (Thank you GSB.) Clearly my passenger knew before he or she enter my car that there was a problem by saying "today." Clearly the problem has already surfaced, or else he or she would not have stated his or her (ALRIGHT, it's a HE. HE. HE. HE. I'm sick of this he or she stuff) problem. Clearly this is something that probably can only be slightly contained. Not too clear is how bad the problem is...
What could have been done differently?
"Manage expectations" - tell the boss (me the driver) of the problem before it comes out (pardon the pun).
"Expect the worst" - don't say "a bit"... say "very" in case it comes out worse than you thought
"Refer to the problem" - including "I" may cause personal attacks.
"Offer solution" - even if its impossible, at least it seems genuine.
Solution: "Sorry, my
2/28/2006
I am AUSTIN!? WTF!?
Interesting... I have never been in Austin before, so maybe I shouldn't over-react. But something tells me being Austin is not really what I had in mind. A friend of mine got Boston...
I completely agree with the city description!!
I completely agree with the city description!!
| You Are Austin |
 A little bit country, a little bit rock and roll. You're totally weird and very proud of it. Artistic and freaky, you still seem to fit in... in your own strange way. Famous Austin residents: Lance Armstrong, Sandra Bullock, Andy Roddick |
2/25/2006
Dream a little Dream
Lately, I have not had good sleeps. Keep having dreams that I vaguely remember. Judge for yourself:
Feedback finally: a very simple dream. It seemed to lapse a long time but I bet it didn't. I received, in the mail, a letter that detailed my interview with a certain consulting firm, the same firm that gave me one of the weirdest consulting case interviews I had. Anyway, in the dream, I'm reading the feedback form in disbelief. Cursing at every turn. I was furious that I was graded poorly in virtually all aspects of the interview. Then I woke up.
Ski trip: now this one clearly stemmed from my Wisconsin debacle. An old friend of mine (welcome to my blog, 阿仔) and I were heading to the ski slopes. The mountain was so big that we had to park our car a couple of miles from the slopes and then make our way there. Apparently, the only form of transportation was the supermarket trolleys. So my friend hopped on and I pushed, and then we switched spots when I got tired. Then there was a downward slope, my friend accidentally let go, and down I went. Then I woke up.
I sweat, I'm not even making this up!
Feedback finally: a very simple dream. It seemed to lapse a long time but I bet it didn't. I received, in the mail, a letter that detailed my interview with a certain consulting firm, the same firm that gave me one of the weirdest consulting case interviews I had. Anyway, in the dream, I'm reading the feedback form in disbelief. Cursing at every turn. I was furious that I was graded poorly in virtually all aspects of the interview. Then I woke up.
Ski trip: now this one clearly stemmed from my Wisconsin debacle. An old friend of mine (welcome to my blog, 阿仔) and I were heading to the ski slopes. The mountain was so big that we had to park our car a couple of miles from the slopes and then make our way there. Apparently, the only form of transportation was the supermarket trolleys. So my friend hopped on and I pushed, and then we switched spots when I got tired. Then there was a downward slope, my friend accidentally let go, and down I went. Then I woke up.
I sweat, I'm not even making this up!
2/21/2006
You can take away the cable box, but you can't touch my soul
RCN: oh yes... about two weeks ago, you made me wait at home for three hours without showing up. And you did it to me again last week. That's SIX freaking hours I allocated to waiting for your technicians to show up. On top of that time, I'm probably still paying $5 a day to keep your overrated service. I waited on your lines for 30 minutes before you were finally able to "call the technician" and the technician miraculously "just finished a job and is heading to your apartment right now," even though he's already an hour late.
Well, here's my revenge: you can take the cable box away, but I am keeping the phone line just so you keep the connection box with me. I have reconnected the cables (sans the box) and still have basic cable and phone service. My internet I share with my neighbor.
So I'm paying $6 total for the phone line. A far cry from the $150 you tried to charge me, EH!? And I still have ESPN. You will not take that away from me.
Well, here's my revenge: you can take the cable box away, but I am keeping the phone line just so you keep the connection box with me. I have reconnected the cables (sans the box) and still have basic cable and phone service. My internet I share with my neighbor.
So I'm paying $6 total for the phone line. A far cry from the $150 you tried to charge me, EH!? And I still have ESPN. You will not take that away from me.
Shrimp Tempura!
Here's the truth: Chicago has very good white food and black food. Yellow and brown food? I'm sorry, it's really awful. AWFUL, DAMN IT!
As part of a celebration for the birthday of our very own 2R, I recommended Coast Sushi... I can't remember the original reason. Anyway, I was very disappointed. So disappointed that I tried to leave a comment on Chicago Citysearch... only that it was too much trouble to sign up to leave comments. So instead, I will leave them here:
Service: The restaurant manager has an atitude problem. We made a reservation for seven and showed up with nine. After asking to add seats or add a small table to the side, the manager refused and explained that the table and the single server cannot handle the extra people. Company policy. Okay, that's fine, dear... but DON'T ROLL YOUR EYES and just TURN AROUND when I was speaking with you about alternatives! Man, I was asking if two of us could be seated nearby and the manager just TURNED AWAY.
Food: All I have to tell you is the Shirmp Tempura. We ordered it as an appetizer. When it arrived, I swear I thought those were onion rings. Same batter, same color... but it's the tempura. Shrimp tempura looking like onion rings. Great.
I can't wait for some real yellow and brown food when I visit Boston!
As part of a celebration for the birthday of our very own 2R, I recommended Coast Sushi... I can't remember the original reason. Anyway, I was very disappointed. So disappointed that I tried to leave a comment on Chicago Citysearch... only that it was too much trouble to sign up to leave comments. So instead, I will leave them here:
Service: The restaurant manager has an atitude problem. We made a reservation for seven and showed up with nine. After asking to add seats or add a small table to the side, the manager refused and explained that the table and the single server cannot handle the extra people. Company policy. Okay, that's fine, dear... but DON'T ROLL YOUR EYES and just TURN AROUND when I was speaking with you about alternatives! Man, I was asking if two of us could be seated nearby and the manager just TURNED AWAY.
Food: All I have to tell you is the Shirmp Tempura. We ordered it as an appetizer. When it arrived, I swear I thought those were onion rings. Same batter, same color... but it's the tempura. Shrimp tempura looking like onion rings. Great.
I can't wait for some real yellow and brown food when I visit Boston!
2/20/2006
Ski Trip!
Oh yes... almost a year since I last skied in the icy Northeast, I finally get to pack my skis and head to the slopes. Here's what transpired:
6:00 Snooze
6:09 Snooze
6:18 Call my friend who needs a morning call. Snooze.
6:20 I'm up. It's so cold in the apartment that I put on my ski gear before brushing my teeth.
6:30 Out the door
6:45 Pick up my friend
7:00 Arrive at next stop to make the requisite wait for other friends and hope they woke up in time.
7:30 Alright, off we go.
8:14 Lost, of course. We took the wrong turn and come across the first McD in America. A worthy mistake to make.
9:30 Arrive at ski slopes
9:45 On to the lift
9:46:00 Off the lift! Ready to ski!
9:46:17 Oh shit, I'm at the bottom of the slope already!
Well, you know, I should have expected this. This is the freaking Midwest. I must have made about 20 runs until I was bored. Then I had lunch, accompanied a friend to teach him how to ski, which I found way more interesting than spending 17 seconds coming down the slope, and then went back to Chicago around 3:00 pm. Uh... and to think that I would have a great time at 6:00 am!!!???
6:00 Snooze
6:09 Snooze
6:18 Call my friend who needs a morning call. Snooze.
6:20 I'm up. It's so cold in the apartment that I put on my ski gear before brushing my teeth.
6:30 Out the door
6:45 Pick up my friend
7:00 Arrive at next stop to make the requisite wait for other friends and hope they woke up in time.
7:30 Alright, off we go.
8:14 Lost, of course. We took the wrong turn and come across the first McD in America. A worthy mistake to make.
9:30 Arrive at ski slopes
9:45 On to the lift
9:46:00 Off the lift! Ready to ski!
9:46:17 Oh shit, I'm at the bottom of the slope already!
Well, you know, I should have expected this. This is the freaking Midwest. I must have made about 20 runs until I was bored. Then I had lunch, accompanied a friend to teach him how to ski, which I found way more interesting than spending 17 seconds coming down the slope, and then went back to Chicago around 3:00 pm. Uh... and to think that I would have a great time at 6:00 am!!!???
2/19/2006
Chicag00000000000
Holy crap. My ass is frozen. Imagine that (crap and ass and all) being true.
It's ZERO degrees (Fahrenheit!) out there! Without windchill! This calls for drastic action: keep sleeping and pretend the cold isn't there. It worked until 11:38am this morning.
Anyway, I'm done complaining now. Will cook lunch and then head out to school to be a student. PRS (post-recruiting syndrome) was in full effect that last week or so. Not much motivation to do anything beyond what is expected. That quickly changed on Thursday when I was tagged to organize a mini Spring Break trip. Friday I went to buy a pair of hiking boots (mine were permanently damaged in Tibet last summer - LAST SUMMER!), two books, and some other miscellaneous items. Good times. Now I must deal with the consequences - no doing work for one whole day is detrimental to your health. Let's see... I have four cases to prepare for next week. Then I need to start preparing for finals since I'm heading to SF for a reunion with the Wing Squad.
It's ZERO degrees (Fahrenheit!) out there! Without windchill! This calls for drastic action: keep sleeping and pretend the cold isn't there. It worked until 11:38am this morning.
Anyway, I'm done complaining now. Will cook lunch and then head out to school to be a student. PRS (post-recruiting syndrome) was in full effect that last week or so. Not much motivation to do anything beyond what is expected. That quickly changed on Thursday when I was tagged to organize a mini Spring Break trip. Friday I went to buy a pair of hiking boots (mine were permanently damaged in Tibet last summer - LAST SUMMER!), two books, and some other miscellaneous items. Good times. Now I must deal with the consequences - no doing work for one whole day is detrimental to your health. Let's see... I have four cases to prepare for next week. Then I need to start preparing for finals since I'm heading to SF for a reunion with the Wing Squad.
2/17/2006
Mental Associations
This is a simple story: I received a package slip in my mailbox today after lunch.
First thought: it's an offer letter! Action: immediately head to the mail room to find out about the details of the offer. Hmmm... it's not a letter. It's a box.
Observation: address says gourmet cookies. First thought: must be my long due Valentines Day present! Action: inspect box. No Hong Kong address. Second thought: maybe it's a secret Valentine? Action: guilt trip myself.
Turns out it's a present from one of the recruiters, trying to entice me to sign the offer sheet. Oh. All that hype for nothing! It is, however, a good indication on how nervous I have become to any little thing in life. Time to relax.
First thought: it's an offer letter! Action: immediately head to the mail room to find out about the details of the offer. Hmmm... it's not a letter. It's a box.
Observation: address says gourmet cookies. First thought: must be my long due Valentines Day present! Action: inspect box. No Hong Kong address. Second thought: maybe it's a secret Valentine? Action: guilt trip myself.
Turns out it's a present from one of the recruiters, trying to entice me to sign the offer sheet. Oh. All that hype for nothing! It is, however, a good indication on how nervous I have become to any little thing in life. Time to relax.
2/16/2006
Grand Canton!
Grand Canton, baby! Ironically, I might be planning a trip there this Spring Break. Maybe visit Death Valley as well. Right now, I have PRS (Post-Recruiting Syndrome) and I'm looking for things to do and keeping myself motivated. I have onviously found organizing a Spring Break trip rather motivating. That and actually doing some school work so my 12K is worth the ticket price.
2/14/2006
Top 10!
Top ten highlights (or lowlights) from recruiting:
10. "Are you ready for some good news?" Hell yes! My first offer was delivered by a partner; I was much more relieved afterwards.
9. "Are we all set?" I asked my seventh interviewer in a day (last of three companies for 2nd rounds). He responded: "What do you mean?" Awkward silence.
8. "Sorry we didn't close list you." Really? You're sorry? Should I thank you for calling?
7. "You did really well on your case interview." Uh... does that mean I have a second round? No!? But I thoguht I did really well in my case interview!?
6. Speaking broken Tagalog (Philippines language) to a recruiter, who did not understand it, leading to an awkward 10 second silence.
5. From Semi-haves to Haves - getting the call from my first choice.
4. Silent Dings - the act of not calling you after an interview. Meanwhile, second rounds are going on and you still hope that the phone rings.
3. "Helllllooooo...!" I picked up the phone with my boyfriend voice. The caller ID was "Unknown" which usually meant it's my girlfriend. Uh... it's a recruitor calling.
2. "Proceed with caution because we do not have enough data." My recommending at the end of the case interview that went nowhere.
1. "Grand Canton." I spelled "Grand Canyon" as "Grand Canton" - luckily, since I put Everest and Fuji in front of Grand Canyon, all the interviewers must have thought Grand Canton as some exotic hiking destination that they didn't know about.
You have a feel-good/horror story!? Post it here by commenting!
10. "Are you ready for some good news?" Hell yes! My first offer was delivered by a partner; I was much more relieved afterwards.
9. "Are we all set?" I asked my seventh interviewer in a day (last of three companies for 2nd rounds). He responded: "What do you mean?" Awkward silence.
8. "Sorry we didn't close list you." Really? You're sorry? Should I thank you for calling?
7. "You did really well on your case interview." Uh... does that mean I have a second round? No!? But I thoguht I did really well in my case interview!?
6. Speaking broken Tagalog (Philippines language) to a recruiter, who did not understand it, leading to an awkward 10 second silence.
5. From Semi-haves to Haves - getting the call from my first choice.
4. Silent Dings - the act of not calling you after an interview. Meanwhile, second rounds are going on and you still hope that the phone rings.
3. "Helllllooooo...!" I picked up the phone with my boyfriend voice. The caller ID was "Unknown" which usually meant it's my girlfriend. Uh... it's a recruitor calling.
2. "Proceed with caution because we do not have enough data." My recommending at the end of the case interview that went nowhere.
1. "Grand Canton." I spelled "Grand Canyon" as "Grand Canton" - luckily, since I put Everest and Fuji in front of Grand Canyon, all the interviewers must have thought Grand Canton as some exotic hiking destination that they didn't know about.
You have a feel-good/horror story!? Post it here by commenting!
2/11/2006
Hello, recruiter
To skip or not to skip; that is the question. Well, the professor is away right now during break: good chance, skip. I pack my stuff, get my coat, hurry to the aisle, walk down. The door is in sight. I just have to turn the corner. BAM! The professor walks in and I almost ran over him. Maybe he didn't see my face... smooth, Lam, very smooth. Oh well. I don't care, I just finished your midterm. Skip.
You know, I've always wanted to recount some of the horror school/interview stories in my blog (here's some irony for you: Blogger's spell check doesn't recognize 'blog'! Oh, and 'Blogger' too apparently!). Then again, since I did put my website on my resume and on my signature on every email, there were certain things I probably shouldn't be talking about. Afterall, the recruiters do control parts of my future.
Anyway, to hell with it.
Thursday: I'm really glad that I'm taking only three classes this semester. By luck, I also didn't bid enough points for a very popular Investments class; instead, I'm stuck with a Competitive Strategy class, which I am studying for a midterm on this faithful Thursday. To make the long story short, I focused on the wrong material and became a bullshit artist three-quarters into the exam. Good times. I do miss undergraduate sometimes, when bullshit worked like a charm.
Skipped class to go to a sell party hosted by a consulting firm in downtown, set at a bowling alley. Let's see, between beer, tequila shots, and bowling one of my worse games in life, I did feel pretty good. The people were definitely hard core. Don't know if they work hard, but they certainly play hard! Met a really really old acquaintence from Boston; he will be joining the consulting firm full time. Anyway, here's the highlight of the night:
It's 11:00 and time to go home. So I grab my stuff, say goodbye to the people I've met, and head to the shuttle bus. It started to snow outside, and it was very slippery. Or maybe it was very tequila. Either way, I somehow made it back onto the bus. Phew... long night, I thought, and looked down to avoid eye contact. WAIT A MINUTE: THESE ARE BOWLING SHOES. And of course going back into the party, making a fool out of myself, finding my original pair of shoes, and contemplating on whether I should take the bowling shoes with me as well. Everybody was on the floor when they saw me coming back. "Here's proof that you are one of us," says one. I think that's a good sign.
Friday: 8 to 11, you said you will be here, RCN. I'm skipping on a sell party just to wait for you. No show. I HATE IT WHEN THAT HAPPENS. I mean, I just carved out 3 hours of a very important day to sit at home and wait for someone to come. And you don't even show up!
Dinner at RIVA. Overrated. The Filet Mignon Tuna Steak was good, but far from greatness. The dessert, shall I say, was very disappointing. Assorted pastries!? What are we? Europeans?
9:45 - wow, I think I just fainted. I got an offer from another consulting job. I have options now! Good times.
You know, I've always wanted to recount some of the horror school/interview stories in my blog (here's some irony for you: Blogger's spell check doesn't recognize 'blog'! Oh, and 'Blogger' too apparently!). Then again, since I did put my website on my resume and on my signature on every email, there were certain things I probably shouldn't be talking about. Afterall, the recruiters do control parts of my future.
Anyway, to hell with it.
Thursday: I'm really glad that I'm taking only three classes this semester. By luck, I also didn't bid enough points for a very popular Investments class; instead, I'm stuck with a Competitive Strategy class, which I am studying for a midterm on this faithful Thursday. To make the long story short, I focused on the wrong material and became a bullshit artist three-quarters into the exam. Good times. I do miss undergraduate sometimes, when bullshit worked like a charm.
Skipped class to go to a sell party hosted by a consulting firm in downtown, set at a bowling alley. Let's see, between beer, tequila shots, and bowling one of my worse games in life, I did feel pretty good. The people were definitely hard core. Don't know if they work hard, but they certainly play hard! Met a really really old acquaintence from Boston; he will be joining the consulting firm full time. Anyway, here's the highlight of the night:
It's 11:00 and time to go home. So I grab my stuff, say goodbye to the people I've met, and head to the shuttle bus. It started to snow outside, and it was very slippery. Or maybe it was very tequila. Either way, I somehow made it back onto the bus. Phew... long night, I thought, and looked down to avoid eye contact. WAIT A MINUTE: THESE ARE BOWLING SHOES. And of course going back into the party, making a fool out of myself, finding my original pair of shoes, and contemplating on whether I should take the bowling shoes with me as well. Everybody was on the floor when they saw me coming back. "Here's proof that you are one of us," says one. I think that's a good sign.
Friday: 8 to 11, you said you will be here, RCN. I'm skipping on a sell party just to wait for you. No show. I HATE IT WHEN THAT HAPPENS. I mean, I just carved out 3 hours of a very important day to sit at home and wait for someone to come. And you don't even show up!
Dinner at RIVA. Overrated. The Filet Mignon Tuna Steak was good, but far from greatness. The dessert, shall I say, was very disappointing. Assorted pastries!? What are we? Europeans?
9:45 - wow, I think I just fainted. I got an offer from another consulting job. I have options now! Good times.
2/04/2006
Hey man, good luck
Yesterday (Friday) I went through three second round interviews. Truth be told, I've come to expect anything in the second rounds. There were some very serious interviews, then some very goofy ones. Anyway, on the way back home after a grueling day, I smiled at some of my funny thoughts on the recruiting gang (god - whomever that may be for you - bless you all):
Surface: "How's recruiting treating you?"
Reality 1: I had the same first round yesterday... no call for me, I hope the same for you
Reality 2: Same as 1, but... no call for me, this guy/gal probably has one, damn it
Reality 3: Same as 1, but... I got a call for a second round, who's my competition?
Reality 4: I know you have tons of offer, and you're still interviewing for my job!
Surface: "Who are you here for?" (while at career service)
Reality: Okay, I need to remember that I am a team player, like small firm culture, etc etc...
Surface: "How was your interview?"
Reality: Please tell me everything I need to know before I go in
Surface: "How did it go?"
Reality: I don't care. Pleaes leave. It was a courtesy question. Leave. now.
Surface: "That was horrible, absolutely horrible"
Reality: I have a chance
Surface: "It went okay"
Reality: It was BAD
Surface: "I don't know, man, I don't know"
Reality: No way I'm telling you about the interview.
Surface: "I had a good time with the interviewer"
Reality: I have no idea what they think of me
Surface: "I think it went well"
Reality: I failed to impress
Surface: "Yeah, I think I did well, but you never know about these things"
Reality: I nailed it
Surface: "I nailed it"
Reality: I nailed it; if I don't get a call back, I will burn them down
Surface: "Hey, I got an interview to run to, see you!"
Reality: Damn right, do you have interviews?
Surface: "good luck, man"
Reality: good luck to you, better luck to me
Surface: "How's recruiting treating you?"
Reality 1: I had the same first round yesterday... no call for me, I hope the same for you
Reality 2: Same as 1, but... no call for me, this guy/gal probably has one, damn it
Reality 3: Same as 1, but... I got a call for a second round, who's my competition?
Reality 4: I know you have tons of offer, and you're still interviewing for my job!
Surface: "Who are you here for?" (while at career service)
Reality: Okay, I need to remember that I am a team player, like small firm culture, etc etc...
Surface: "How was your interview?"
Reality: Please tell me everything I need to know before I go in
Surface: "How did it go?"
Reality: I don't care. Pleaes leave. It was a courtesy question. Leave. now.
Surface: "That was horrible, absolutely horrible"
Reality: I have a chance
Surface: "It went okay"
Reality: It was BAD
Surface: "I don't know, man, I don't know"
Reality: No way I'm telling you about the interview.
Surface: "I had a good time with the interviewer"
Reality: I have no idea what they think of me
Surface: "I think it went well"
Reality: I failed to impress
Surface: "Yeah, I think I did well, but you never know about these things"
Reality: I nailed it
Surface: "I nailed it"
Reality: I nailed it; if I don't get a call back, I will burn them down
Surface: "Hey, I got an interview to run to, see you!"
Reality: Damn right, do you have interviews?
Surface: "good luck, man"
Reality: good luck to you, better luck to me
Skipped a Beat
About five minutes ago, my heart skipped a beat. While working on some company research, my computer suddenly shut down. I swear that split second felt like a minute. I looked at the screen in disbelief and pressed the power button. Nada. I closed the screen. Opened. Power button. Nada. My heart screamed OH MY GOD.
Long story made short, the computer is working now after much "pressing around."
But man was I scared shitless.
Long story made short, the computer is working now after much "pressing around."
But man was I scared shitless.
2/03/2006
Random Points
I'm probably leading a Random Walk trip to Galapagos...
Look, second round interviews are not offers...
I now know what my great^22 grandfather looks like...
Really, I do. I have his picture even...
Case interviews can be fun sometimes...
Class!? What Class??
恭喜发财！
Wing squad has officially ended its run...
Look, second round interviews are not offers...
I now know what my great^22 grandfather looks like...
Really, I do. I have his picture even...
Case interviews can be fun sometimes...
Class!? What Class??
恭喜发财！
Wing squad has officially ended its run...
1/29/2006
The State of Recruiting
Well well well... week 3 of on-campus recruiting is almost over. Two big consulting firms are interviewing today and I have no part of it. Didn't bid enough points for them. No matter. Anyway, here are some of my classmates:
Have nots: my kind. keep the faith.
Semi-Haves: they deserve it. keep the faith.
Haves: they deserve it. time to dodge class and have fun!
Have and want mores: assholes.
Invariably, you will find these assholes at any school. They've scored their first choice and keep looking for more offers. Though I'm not sure what they are trying to prove, but "look at me, I have so many offers... still have to interview though, since number of offers will validate me!" sounds about right.
Anyway... don't want to leave the bad impression: I know a lot who have cancelled interviews with their fifth choice or with their second choice industry. Thank you, guys. If you get to choose between 1, 2, and 3, good for you. Look closely and examine them; make the best choice for you and your family; take your time until you can make an educated choice; and try and do more at class while we have nots keep concentrating on recruiting!
As for the ones with ten offers and still interviewing for consulting and corporate and marketing... well, since we clearly have different principles, I won't even try to convince you.
Have nots: my kind. keep the faith.
Semi-Haves: they deserve it. keep the faith.
Haves: they deserve it. time to dodge class and have fun!
Have and want mores: assholes.
Invariably, you will find these assholes at any school. They've scored their first choice and keep looking for more offers. Though I'm not sure what they are trying to prove, but "look at me, I have so many offers... still have to interview though, since number of offers will validate me!" sounds about right.
Anyway... don't want to leave the bad impression: I know a lot who have cancelled interviews with their fifth choice or with their second choice industry. Thank you, guys. If you get to choose between 1, 2, and 3, good for you. Look closely and examine them; make the best choice for you and your family; take your time until you can make an educated choice; and try and do more at class while we have nots keep concentrating on recruiting!
As for the ones with ten offers and still interviewing for consulting and corporate and marketing... well, since we clearly have different principles, I won't even try to convince you.
1/27/2006
Recruit at as many firms as possible
Yeah yeah, the nay-sayers think it's stupid because you're spread too thin and can't do well at everything. Well, I'd like to offer another way to view the recruiting process:
I was treated to a very nice dinner by a consulting firm who shall remain unnamed. Great restaurant. Here's what transpired:
7:00 Arriving in style. Our hosts just sat down.
7:02 I hate sticky name tags.
7:03 Whooped out the magnetic name tag, followed by "wow" from the recruiter.
7:05 My name is Eric... blah blah blah... if you don't mind, let me take a look at the menu
7:30 Excellent, everybody is here. Can we order food yet?
7:30 - 7:45 This is difficult... Octopus or Scallop? Or soup? Char or Salmon? Or Tuna? Steak or Veal? Wine? Are our hosts choosing a bottle? Oh shit, I forgot her name... what's her name? Is she going to interview me? I wonder what's on the dessert menu?
8:00 Octopus arrives. The dish looks delightful. Probably a whole baby squid, bbqed and smelling really good. It did not disappoint.
8:20 Arctic Char arrives. After much debate, I decided to ask our server for her opinion. She went with the Arctic Char, and matched it with a white wine (whatever that means). Excellent choice by me (for asking for her opinion). Excellent choice by her too. It's similar to salmon but with a lighter taste. Very impressed with the treatment of the skin - seared and crunchy - and the meat - medium.
8:30 Tried some veal from my friend's dish... not that impressed. Where's the tenderness!?
8:31 Are we ordering dessert?
8:35 Are we?
8:50 I cleaned my plate. My host ask if I have had enough food. Not good times.
8:51 I poured some fries for myself. I think someone is staring.
9:00 Dessert menu! Yes!
9:02 uh-oh... banana dessert? cake and shake? port wine?
9:20 Cake and Shake. I'll let the restaurant do the desccription: layers of chocolate buttermilk cake milk chocolate and bittersweet chocolate mousse chocolate meringue buttercream and a vanilla malted milk shake. Oh yes.
9:30 OH YES!
Well, if you are lucky, then you apply to many firms and get many dinner invites. Good times all around. Oh, and don't forget to ask about the firm and stuff. Would help your interview. But hey... can't forget the food!
I was treated to a very nice dinner by a consulting firm who shall remain unnamed. Great restaurant. Here's what transpired:
7:00 Arriving in style. Our hosts just sat down.
7:02 I hate sticky name tags.
7:03 Whooped out the magnetic name tag, followed by "wow" from the recruiter.
7:05 My name is Eric... blah blah blah... if you don't mind, let me take a look at the menu
7:30 Excellent, everybody is here. Can we order food yet?
7:30 - 7:45 This is difficult... Octopus or Scallop? Or soup? Char or Salmon? Or Tuna? Steak or Veal? Wine? Are our hosts choosing a bottle? Oh shit, I forgot her name... what's her name? Is she going to interview me? I wonder what's on the dessert menu?
8:00 Octopus arrives. The dish looks delightful. Probably a whole baby squid, bbqed and smelling really good. It did not disappoint.
8:20 Arctic Char arrives. After much debate, I decided to ask our server for her opinion. She went with the Arctic Char, and matched it with a white wine (whatever that means). Excellent choice by me (for asking for her opinion). Excellent choice by her too. It's similar to salmon but with a lighter taste. Very impressed with the treatment of the skin - seared and crunchy - and the meat - medium.
8:30 Tried some veal from my friend's dish... not that impressed. Where's the tenderness!?
8:31 Are we ordering dessert?
8:35 Are we?
8:50 I cleaned my plate. My host ask if I have had enough food. Not good times.
8:51 I poured some fries for myself. I think someone is staring.
9:00 Dessert menu! Yes!
9:02 uh-oh... banana dessert? cake and shake? port wine?
9:20 Cake and Shake. I'll let the restaurant do the desccription: layers of chocolate buttermilk cake milk chocolate and bittersweet chocolate mousse chocolate meringue buttercream and a vanilla malted milk shake. Oh yes.
9:30 OH YES!
Well, if you are lucky, then you apply to many firms and get many dinner invites. Good times all around. Oh, and don't forget to ask about the firm and stuff. Would help your interview. But hey... can't forget the food!
1/26/2006
Democracy and Hamas
Exit polls show Hamas gaining about 40% of the votes in the latest Palestinian election. Yup, the same Hamas branded as a terrorist organization by the US State Department (thanks for reminding us every single time you report about Hamas, CNN) are selected by the Palestinian people. Two points:
1. No doubt this is a democratic election. If the Palestinians support Hamas, are their supporters of terrorism? What implications does that have on US policies regarding Palestine? Do you still acknowledge the effect that Hamas has on Palestine and engage in negotiations?
A democratic terrorist government... what an irony.
2. Is this a successful election? Can an election that produces a terrorist (by US and Israel standards anyway) government be considered successful? Strangely, you could make the same case in the US, where many Palestinians/Middle East people would consider the Bush administration terrorism. Anyway... there are many lessons to be learned here.
In college, I remember writing about free market fiscal policies. The US supports such policies and enforces it through IMF bailouts. BUT ONLY IF the target country is willing to do it the as US advices. i.e. only if it is in line with national interests. Will democracy (and non-democracy for that matter) be the same deal? I suspect so.
We'll love your democracy if it loves our democracy;
We'll love your dictatorship if it loves our democracy;
We'll hate your democracy if it hates our democracy;
We'll hate your dictatorship if it hates our democracy.
1. No doubt this is a democratic election. If the Palestinians support Hamas, are their supporters of terrorism? What implications does that have on US policies regarding Palestine? Do you still acknowledge the effect that Hamas has on Palestine and engage in negotiations?
A democratic terrorist government... what an irony.
2. Is this a successful election? Can an election that produces a terrorist (by US and Israel standards anyway) government be considered successful? Strangely, you could make the same case in the US, where many Palestinians/Middle East people would consider the Bush administration terrorism. Anyway... there are many lessons to be learned here.
In college, I remember writing about free market fiscal policies. The US supports such policies and enforces it through IMF bailouts. BUT ONLY IF the target country is willing to do it the as US advices. i.e. only if it is in line with national interests. Will democracy (and non-democracy for that matter) be the same deal? I suspect so.
We'll love your democracy if it loves our democracy;
We'll love your dictatorship if it loves our democracy;
We'll hate your democracy if it hates our democracy;
We'll hate your dictatorship if it hates our democracy.
1/24/2006
Learning...
Upon reading my blog, someone asked me how I feel about group-learning. Excellent question.
Well. Let's see. Learning during group studies is like practicing tennis. The following list is an approximation of tennis partner ability (relative to me!) and how much I learn from the match:
Is he a pro? I'm being raped. I learn humility.
He's everywhere, damn it! I learn how to struggle.
I can almost handle this guy. I learn how to play better.
This is going to be a long game. I learn to fine tune some of my techniques.
Just a matter of time before I win. I learn what mistakes to avoid.
I will squash you like a bug. I learn nothing.
Dude, at least run after the ball. I regress a little.
Well. Let's see. Learning during group studies is like practicing tennis. The following list is an approximation of tennis partner ability (relative to me!) and how much I learn from the match:
Is he a pro? I'm being raped. I learn humility.
He's everywhere, damn it! I learn how to struggle.
I can almost handle this guy. I learn how to play better.
This is going to be a long game. I learn to fine tune some of my techniques.
Just a matter of time before I win. I learn what mistakes to avoid.
I will squash you like a bug. I learn nothing.
Dude, at least run after the ball. I regress a little.
1/22/2006
Study Group
I've always wondered about the effectiveness of study groups. Here are a few popular ways in dealing with a group project:
Divide and conquer: the most popular methodology. The group work exists in the form of a stapler (stolen from our marketing professor's memorable quotes). You learn the least but spend the least time. It is the most efficient because our classes ironically place little real importance on the homework. A real hit or miss when it comes to the grade.
Smaller Groups and divide and conquer: somewhat popular. Same as divide and conquer but do so in smaller groups. Slightly better results are reached and slightly more time is spent. Consensus may or may not be reached but little is done to ensure that. Minimal learning.
Gather and discuss: the most annoying way by far. The group work is 90% talk and 10% do. Dominated by strong personality. If there are strong personalities, expect Jerry Springer bodyguards to break up the fight. Involves shouting and backhanded compliments such as "That's a very good Kellogg idea." A consensus may or may not be reached. If reached, the consensus may or may not be written down. If written down, the consensus may or may not materialize. It depends on the person writing the final version. And that's if you reach consensus!
Come prepared and discuss: hit or miss method. Asking people to come prepared is easier said than done. The most likely outcome is similar to "gather and discuss," since prisoner's dilemma leads to all parties to be more or less unprepared. However, in the rare occurance that everybody comes prepared, both learning and grades are maximized. Well, congratulations, you just scored an "A" on a 3 to 5 pt project that took you 5 hours to complete.
Such is life at the GSB.
Divide and conquer: the most popular methodology. The group work exists in the form of a stapler (stolen from our marketing professor's memorable quotes). You learn the least but spend the least time. It is the most efficient because our classes ironically place little real importance on the homework. A real hit or miss when it comes to the grade.
Smaller Groups and divide and conquer: somewhat popular. Same as divide and conquer but do so in smaller groups. Slightly better results are reached and slightly more time is spent. Consensus may or may not be reached but little is done to ensure that. Minimal learning.
Gather and discuss: the most annoying way by far. The group work is 90% talk and 10% do. Dominated by strong personality. If there are strong personalities, expect Jerry Springer bodyguards to break up the fight. Involves shouting and backhanded compliments such as "That's a very good Kellogg idea." A consensus may or may not be reached. If reached, the consensus may or may not be written down. If written down, the consensus may or may not materialize. It depends on the person writing the final version. And that's if you reach consensus!
Come prepared and discuss: hit or miss method. Asking people to come prepared is easier said than done. The most likely outcome is similar to "gather and discuss," since prisoner's dilemma leads to all parties to be more or less unprepared. However, in the rare occurance that everybody comes prepared, both learning and grades are maximized. Well, congratulations, you just scored an "A" on a 3 to 5 pt project that took you 5 hours to complete.
Such is life at the GSB.
1/21/2006
What did I do this week?
Monday was MLK... somehow, the week just zipped past and I'm sitting at home Friday night realizing that I didn't seem to do much this whole week! Unbelievable. Maybe this is the calm before the storm (interviews)?
Today I witnessed a friend being extremely disappointed after being dinged. That was me last Wednesday. Just have to get over it.
My mom asked me what my Plan B was. Um... my Plan B is to start thinking about a Plan B. =)
Today I witnessed a friend being extremely disappointed after being dinged. That was me last Wednesday. Just have to get over it.
My mom asked me what my Plan B was. Um... my Plan B is to start thinking about a Plan B. =)
1/19/2006
Who's getting married?
While the human race worries about identity theft in the Internet, I'm worrying about the anonymous comment on my blog. Someone is getting married in Vancouver and I have no idea who it is!? Winnie? Perry? Perry 2? Ivan? Isn't he married already? Wait, isn't he THE wedding photographer? Ahhh...!?
And you know he or she is reading this right now and fuming that I don't who (remember?) he or she is.
Speaking of which... I just realize that there are more people reading my blog that I thought. Would it be too much to ask you to post a comment so I can tally some. I did suggest to Blogger that they ought to keep count of how many visits... I think that would be useful!
And you know he or she is reading this right now and fuming that I don't who (remember?) he or she is.
Speaking of which... I just realize that there are more people reading my blog that I thought. Would it be too much to ask you to post a comment so I can tally some. I did suggest to Blogger that they ought to keep count of how many visits... I think that would be useful!
1/16/2006
Time for Movie Review!
Merry Christmas - I saw this French (I think?) film in Hong Kong right before I left for Chicago. It is based on a true story during WWI in 1914. It's basically about how three sides of the battlefield (Germans against the French and Irish) refused to go to battle on Christmas Eve and how the sides found it difficult to continue the battle. I found the movie simple yet profound. The entire movie really just spans a week max. The message was also quite simple: men as single units are mostly anti-war; it is only a problem when you put them in armies. Well... do I even want to start on this topic?
Unfortunately, this movie may not even make it to the US. There's no macho hero, no real villain, no real tear jerking moment... just men on a battlefield, "working" for different govenments, fighting for nothing they really believe.
Recommedation? Yes, go see it. It's light hearted and carries a good message.
Memiors of a Geisha - I hear it's a really good book. I found the movie lacking depth and in general weak. Unlike Merry Christmas, this movie is driven by the characters, starring Zhang Ziyi (章子怡），Gong Li (鞏俐），and Michelle Yeoh (楊 紫瓊). The movie starts off strong with nice sceneries of Japan and strong performances from the little girl and the adults she had to deal with. Gong Li, in particular, was really good. Then it starts going downhill. Except for Gong Li and the Japanese lady who played owner of the Geishas, the other characters really were just floating around with not much development. Zhang Ziyi, in particular, disappoints me. Personally, I think it's more of a casting problem. By any measure, she is not that stunning. She's beautiful, yes. Taking the breather of the who's who in Japanese upper class, no.
Unfortunately, the movie never develops into anything significant. The last part of the movie, when all the older ladies leave and the Geisha is trying to reestablish herself with her former "men," in particular, is painful to watch. Men use the Geisha as a product or gift for their own purposes. The Geisha views herself as the perfect gift. There ought to be some depth in these exchanges. Yet what ends up on the screen are chessy dialouge followed by predictable scripts. And then some more chessy scenes. My question after watching the movie: why did Steven Spielberg not direct this himself? I hate him when he is executive director.
Recommendation: read the book. I hear it's really good. Oh, and definitely buy the CD. When disinterested in the movie, I listened to the music and it was magnificent.
Unfortunately, this movie may not even make it to the US. There's no macho hero, no real villain, no real tear jerking moment... just men on a battlefield, "working" for different govenments, fighting for nothing they really believe.
Recommedation? Yes, go see it. It's light hearted and carries a good message.
Memiors of a Geisha - I hear it's a really good book. I found the movie lacking depth and in general weak. Unlike Merry Christmas, this movie is driven by the characters, starring Zhang Ziyi (章子怡），Gong Li (鞏俐），and Michelle Yeoh (楊 紫瓊). The movie starts off strong with nice sceneries of Japan and strong performances from the little girl and the adults she had to deal with. Gong Li, in particular, was really good. Then it starts going downhill. Except for Gong Li and the Japanese lady who played owner of the Geishas, the other characters really were just floating around with not much development. Zhang Ziyi, in particular, disappoints me. Personally, I think it's more of a casting problem. By any measure, she is not that stunning. She's beautiful, yes. Taking the breather of the who's who in Japanese upper class, no.
Unfortunately, the movie never develops into anything significant. The last part of the movie, when all the older ladies leave and the Geisha is trying to reestablish herself with her former "men," in particular, is painful to watch. Men use the Geisha as a product or gift for their own purposes. The Geisha views herself as the perfect gift. There ought to be some depth in these exchanges. Yet what ends up on the screen are chessy dialouge followed by predictable scripts. And then some more chessy scenes. My question after watching the movie: why did Steven Spielberg not direct this himself? I hate him when he is executive director.
Recommendation: read the book. I hear it's really good. Oh, and definitely buy the CD. When disinterested in the movie, I listened to the music and it was magnificent.
1/14/2006
Plan B
Plan B is sort of the antithesis to MBA students. "Plan B!? What are you talking about? I'm an MBA and I have Plan A." Yet here I am, sitting in the library, finally coming to my senses: it's time to draft a Plan B. Yes, my peers a year older have warned me (us, really) about getting a plan B ready. Yes, I (we) knew they were right. No, I did not listen.
I've heard the usual "don't put all your eggs in one basket" advice. Personally, I think most people do put all their eggs in one basket. I mean, seriously, who wouldn't during an MBA? Especially since spreading oneself between several career tracks is quite detrimental! If I had to look at banking and consulting, I might as well cut the toilet time (I prefer sleeping, so bathroom time has got to go first).
But you and I all know that when we go all-out for something, there's a darker figure lurking behind. Every now and then you feel the figure, take a quick look back, and keep moving on. But it's right there behind you. It's not bad, it's just that you don't want to face it and loose sight of what is in your path. But hey, now that the road is closed, I just have to turn back a little and start a Plan B.
There. I said it. I have a Plan B. Well. I will have a Plan B.
I've heard the usual "don't put all your eggs in one basket" advice. Personally, I think most people do put all their eggs in one basket. I mean, seriously, who wouldn't during an MBA? Especially since spreading oneself between several career tracks is quite detrimental! If I had to look at banking and consulting, I might as well cut the toilet time (I prefer sleeping, so bathroom time has got to go first).
But you and I all know that when we go all-out for something, there's a darker figure lurking behind. Every now and then you feel the figure, take a quick look back, and keep moving on. But it's right there behind you. It's not bad, it's just that you don't want to face it and loose sight of what is in your path. But hey, now that the road is closed, I just have to turn back a little and start a Plan B.
There. I said it. I have a Plan B. Well. I will have a Plan B.
1/11/2006
Three Blind Mice
Blind Mice 1: talk the talk, never walk the walk.
Blind Mice 2: wears a question mark on the forehead.
Blind Mice 3: slept in spectacular style during class.
They somehow were able to find each other and become good friends. I guess the moral of the story is this:
1. There's a market for all types of people, even airheads like our three blind mice
2. Procrasination is a powerful tool in business school
Blind Mice 2: wears a question mark on the forehead.
Blind Mice 3: slept in spectacular style during class.
They somehow were able to find each other and become good friends. I guess the moral of the story is this:
1. There's a market for all types of people, even airheads like our three blind mice
2. Procrasination is a powerful tool in business school
1/10/2006
Ding!
This is an interesting day.
Despite having no class on Monday, I had 8am meeting with the consultant to our consulting team (say what!?). Waking up Monday 6am isn't exactly my way to start a week. Oh well, at least Sports Center was showing highlights from the Patriot's game. The meeting went very well.
Right after lunch, I got my first Ding... well, partial Ding. I capitalize it because I think being Dinged is more than a simple verb. It warrants a formal name. It describes a fact, then a feeling: disbelief, anger, rejection, acceptance, and many more physical and emotional reactions. For non-MBAs, Ding is a rejection. Specifically, it's used for interviews. One who is Dinged is rejected after the interview. I haven't been interviewed yet. But I'm extending "Dinged" to the interview invitation section now. I can still bid for an open interview spot (don't ask, I don't know why things have to be so complicated), so I'm technically still in. Maybe this is Mini-Ding.
Next up, group study. No sweat. Done. At 3pm, I received an email from the Management Consulting Group (MCG). Apparently, at 4pm, there will be limited sign up for case interview practice. Well, thanks for telling me at 3pm. 4pm, I look over to where you can sign up, and THERE'S A LINE! My god, what has happened to we consultant-wannabes? We've become bankers and follow the herd to line up! So... I lined up. And you know what? I got the forth last spot on the list. And there were about 20 people behind me. Truth be told, I feel bad for them, but not as bad as those who are at home today (very little classes in GSB on Monday this quarter) and received the email and thought they could come tomorrow and sign up for such a useful event.
Next up: ITP... for Interview Training Program (I think). I got absolutely skewered. Sweet Jesus. A long way before being prepared, I suppose, and I thought I was prepared. Anyway, since this isn't real (thankfully, I think it's pretty close to the real thing), it's only helped me. Now I will go practice how to speak with my brain and not my mouth.
Oh, funny thing is... the evaluation sheet asked me whether my day prior to the interview went well. I thought about it for a second, and circled 3 out of 5. At that split second, I said 3 because I had to wake at 6am!!! Not because of the MD (Mini-Ding!)... but because of when I woke up!
Oh, some observations in life. People who are late will always be late. Airheads will always hang with airheads. Smart people don't like to mingle with dumb(er) people. Dumb(er) people hate to mingle with smart people.
Despite having no class on Monday, I had 8am meeting with the consultant to our consulting team (say what!?). Waking up Monday 6am isn't exactly my way to start a week. Oh well, at least Sports Center was showing highlights from the Patriot's game. The meeting went very well.
Right after lunch, I got my first Ding... well, partial Ding. I capitalize it because I think being Dinged is more than a simple verb. It warrants a formal name. It describes a fact, then a feeling: disbelief, anger, rejection, acceptance, and many more physical and emotional reactions. For non-MBAs, Ding is a rejection. Specifically, it's used for interviews. One who is Dinged is rejected after the interview. I haven't been interviewed yet. But I'm extending "Dinged" to the interview invitation section now. I can still bid for an open interview spot (don't ask, I don't know why things have to be so complicated), so I'm technically still in. Maybe this is Mini-Ding.
Next up, group study. No sweat. Done. At 3pm, I received an email from the Management Consulting Group (MCG). Apparently, at 4pm, there will be limited sign up for case interview practice. Well, thanks for telling me at 3pm. 4pm, I look over to where you can sign up, and THERE'S A LINE! My god, what has happened to we consultant-wannabes? We've become bankers and follow the herd to line up! So... I lined up. And you know what? I got the forth last spot on the list. And there were about 20 people behind me. Truth be told, I feel bad for them, but not as bad as those who are at home today (very little classes in GSB on Monday this quarter) and received the email and thought they could come tomorrow and sign up for such a useful event.
Next up: ITP... for Interview Training Program (I think). I got absolutely skewered. Sweet Jesus. A long way before being prepared, I suppose, and I thought I was prepared. Anyway, since this isn't real (thankfully, I think it's pretty close to the real thing), it's only helped me. Now I will go practice how to speak with my brain and not my mouth.
Oh, funny thing is... the evaluation sheet asked me whether my day prior to the interview went well. I thought about it for a second, and circled 3 out of 5. At that split second, I said 3 because I had to wake at 6am!!! Not because of the MD (Mini-Ding!)... but because of when I woke up!
Oh, some observations in life. People who are late will always be late. Airheads will always hang with airheads. Smart people don't like to mingle with dumb(er) people. Dumb(er) people hate to mingle with smart people.
1/05/2006
Just a Little
Just a little behind... a little lack of motivation... I'm pretty sure its the residual holiday effect (RHE), a long time chronic disease. Do you have it? (By the way, I looked up RHE and was surprised to find no such thing on the realm of Google!)
Yesterday, I went to a marketing class. I'd say the professor was very good. Actually, she was so good that she sort of cured my RHE. I feel revitalized a bit, finally.
Yesterday, I went to a marketing class. I'd say the professor was very good. Actually, she was so good that she sort of cured my RHE. I feel revitalized a bit, finally.
1/03/2006
打中文！
看一看，是我自己学的，不过因为只是学拼音的，所以有一些拼不出来。 还有就是拼音字很难打广东字，所以我就放弃了。往后多多指教！有人跟我说速成是最好的，我看不一定！让我慢慢学拼音的话，一定会进步很多！
可是还是英文才词"能"达意... 真悲哀!
=) 给我美国的朋友:
Just practicing typing in Chinese! My new toy.
可是还是英文才词"能"达意... 真悲哀!
=) 给我美国的朋友:
Just practicing typing in Chinese! My new toy.
1/02/2006
New Year Resolutions
Honestly, I don't see the point of new year resolutions. Don't we all have resolutions springing up and down throughout the year? I want to land a management consulting summer internship in Hong Kong. Is this a new year resolution? No. Should it be one? Probably. But what's the point if I've always wanted this target since my first day in business school? What exactly is new about December 31 that I cannot think about earlier in the year (or later, for that matter)? None.
Maybe a deadline... a new year resolution has a timeline - a year. Fair enough. Let's get that deadline then. But please, why force me to think about a list before the New Year?
Happy New Year to all those who care!
Maybe a deadline... a new year resolution has a timeline - a year. Fair enough. Let's get that deadline then. But please, why force me to think about a list before the New Year?
Happy New Year to all those who care!
12/31/2005
United Food
Food on United flights have always served as a good reminder that I am leaving Hong Kong. Per usual, they were awful but plentiful. I ate all four meals/snacks offered, not leaving anything on the plate. Not good times.
Back in Chicago now. Fittingly, it was snowing rather heavily (yes yes, by Hong Kong standards) when we landed. The plane swerved one way and the other... no biggie.
Yet another reminder that I am back in Chicago: we waited 30 minutes before the luggage came out. =)
Now... it's prepare for school and recruiting.
Back in Chicago now. Fittingly, it was snowing rather heavily (yes yes, by Hong Kong standards) when we landed. The plane swerved one way and the other... no biggie.
Yet another reminder that I am back in Chicago: we waited 30 minutes before the luggage came out. =)
Now... it's prepare for school and recruiting.
12/28/2005
Overnight
Just spend an night at Cheung Chau with a bunch of old friends. Still as fun as ever. Surprisingly survived the overnight stay without any sleep. And played bball at 645 am.
I shall miss Hong Kong when I go back to Chicago.
I shall miss Hong Kong when I go back to Chicago.
12/25/2005
Back in Hong Kong
Back in Hong Kong after a one week trek to Beijing... I guess the move towards China is inevitable, and I might as well brace myself for this:
Polution: check.
Rudeness: check.
Traffic: check.
Good food: check.
Cheap everything: check.
Dynamic market place: check.
Polution: check.
Rudeness: check.
Traffic: check.
Good food: check.
Cheap everything: check.
Dynamic market place: check.
12/22/2005
Grades
Phew... glad I don't have to worry about the 4Cs...!
This day to day pledge has failed miserably. I can only blame myself.
Beijing has been interesting so far. Say what you want about China, but this is definitely the world's most intriguing economic region. Even as a Chinese, I am absolutely blown away by the opportunities and the developments in Beijing and Shanghai. You hear a lot, but until you see it, you really don't realize the reality (great, my English has gone way South) of it!
This day to day pledge has failed miserably. I can only blame myself.
Beijing has been interesting so far. Say what you want about China, but this is definitely the world's most intriguing economic region. Even as a Chinese, I am absolutely blown away by the opportunities and the developments in Beijing and Shanghai. You hear a lot, but until you see it, you really don't realize the reality (great, my English has gone way South) of it!
12/16/2005
Queen of the Rings
Her engagement ring covers her finger. Nice.
The ensuing discussion with a friend concluded that "we need to find gals who aren't just looking for rich people (RP) to marry" (we being the NRP and all)
The ensuing discussion from that ensuing discussion concluded that "limitations in social circle does not create limitations in choice of marriage"... or, in English, "Even though you hang out with RP only, you may still be 'able' to choose a NRP to marry"
And the hilarious part is my argument. Hey, I'm apparently learning from my MBA...
1. I am a NRP.
2. ABC is a RP and hangs out with mostly RP.
3. ABC will not reject me due to my NRP status.
4. I am the "worst" NRP knows.
Conclusion: There exists a chance where will date/marry a "worse" NRP.
So among our circle of friends, my friend and I came to the ultimate conclusion that the situation isn't that desperate, that not all the people we know from Boston date money... anyway, whatever.
The ensuing discussion with a friend concluded that "we need to find gals who aren't just looking for rich people (RP) to marry" (we being the NRP and all)
The ensuing discussion from that ensuing discussion concluded that "limitations in social circle does not create limitations in choice of marriage"... or, in English, "Even though you hang out with RP only, you may still be 'able' to choose a NRP to marry"
And the hilarious part is my argument. Hey, I'm apparently learning from my MBA...
1. I am a NRP.
2. ABC
3.
4. I am the "worst" NRP
Conclusion: There exists a chance where
So among our circle of friends, my friend and I came to the ultimate conclusion that the situation isn't that desperate, that not all the people we know from Boston date money... anyway, whatever.
12/14/2005
Cold Weather Warning!
At 12C... or 56F...
...... it's Hong Kong, what can I say.
I saw the protesters on foot today. Rather amusing. One guy says WTO is worse than bird flu. The real scary part is that he believes it.
...... it's Hong Kong, what can I say.
I saw the protesters on foot today. Rather amusing. One guy says WTO is worse than bird flu. The real scary part is that he believes it.
They are everywhere
It's supposed to be winter break, but I don't feel that way yet. Every day is something about recruiting, something about the Beijing Trek, something about HK Bank Week, something about school.
As usual, the HK media blasted the police for using too much force against WTO protestors... after blasting them for not doing enough to keep the peace. Thanks for reporting, guys.
On the bright side, the glue worked and our pavements have been kept in tact.
As usual, the HK media blasted the police for using too much force against WTO protestors... after blasting them for not doing enough to keep the peace. Thanks for reporting, guys.
On the bright side, the glue worked and our pavements have been kept in tact.
12/13/2005
Once a day...
Sometimes it can be rather challenging to find something to post at 330am. I'm doing this because I pledged so.
Ah, pollution. I felt dizzy going out on the streets. Maybe this is why the economy is booming. KEEP THEM IN THE SHOPS!
WTO meetings are rolling around. Security is heightened. I hope my Korean classmates won't be mistaken for Korean protestors. The news says the Hong Kong police have GLUED the bricks on the pavements so the protestors cannot throw them at the police. Good tactic. Good tactic. Korean protestor leader (why are they getting a bad rap anyway? there are many more other protestors!) responds: since they glued the bricks, we will find another way to protest, maybe a way never used before. HMMMMM...
Ah, pollution. I felt dizzy going out on the streets. Maybe this is why the economy is booming. KEEP THEM IN THE SHOPS!
WTO meetings are rolling around. Security is heightened. I hope my Korean classmates won't be mistaken for Korean protestors. The news says the Hong Kong police have GLUED the bricks on the pavements so the protestors cannot throw them at the police. Good tactic. Good tactic. Korean protestor leader (why are they getting a bad rap anyway? there are many more other protestors!) responds: since they glued the bricks, we will find another way to protest, maybe a way never used before. HMMMMM...
12/10/2005
Post Finals
Well, if there's one golden lesson you learn from business school, it is this: you will feel guilty about any idle time. So what did I do the day after? Cover letters, recuiting emails, company research... these seem worse than classes themselves!
I'm finally heading back to Hong Kong. Looking forward to this break. Oh, and I'll try and make a post every day. Something simple that touched my soul. Here it is:
I watched Syriana last night. It was quite boring and disjointed, so I fell asleep every now and then. At the end of the movie, I was lost and had no idea what was going on. Anyway, while not feeling that good about spending $8.50 to take a nap, I wasn't feeling too bad. It was, after all, a nice nap. Funny thing is, EVERYBODY coming out of the theater was saying "when did you fall asleep/wake up?" haha.
Well, my immediate reaction was: wow, this is just like class...!
I'm finally heading back to Hong Kong. Looking forward to this break. Oh, and I'll try and make a post every day. Something simple that touched my soul. Here it is:
I watched Syriana last night. It was quite boring and disjointed, so I fell asleep every now and then. At the end of the movie, I was lost and had no idea what was going on. Anyway, while not feeling that good about spending $8.50 to take a nap, I wasn't feeling too bad. It was, after all, a nice nap. Funny thing is, EVERYBODY coming out of the theater was saying "when did you fall asleep/wake up?" haha.
Well, my immediate reaction was: wow, this is just like class...!
12/09/2005
12/07/2005
Shocking parallels...
In my kichen, there lies two bags of chip (one half consumed), Reese's Pieces, granola bars, and Chips Ahoy... you know what's up? (and if you don't, see my earlier post...)
It's GSB final week.
Guess what it reminds me of... none other than Hong Kong! There are shocking parallels here: both count for a substantial percentage of your final grade, both places administer difficult or impossible exams, both exams are designed to humble me, both succeed, both make me depressed... and both don't matter in the future.
One glaring difference: GSB has a curve and grade non-disclosure. I'm so glad those are the differences. At least I feel like I learned a lot of useful things... though the exams have certainly not reinforced that idea.
It's GSB final week.
Guess what it reminds me of... none other than Hong Kong! There are shocking parallels here: both count for a substantial percentage of your final grade, both places administer difficult or impossible exams, both exams are designed to humble me, both succeed, both make me depressed... and both don't matter in the future.
One glaring difference: GSB has a curve and grade non-disclosure. I'm so glad those are the differences. At least I feel like I learned a lot of useful things... though the exams have certainly not reinforced that idea.
12/04/2005
oh man oh man
Per usual, Picasa and Blogger don't work THAT well together. Two lost paragraphs. Oh well.
Finals are up. Monday Operations, Tuesday Accounting, Wednesday Regression, Thursday Microeconomics. Good times, as witnessed with this picture from our student film festival, are long gone.
Speaking of which, next quarter I should be tentatively taking: Tuesday Managing the Workplace, Wednesday Marketing Strategy, Thursday Competitive Strategy.
11/30/2005
Score card
1. Applications to most, if not all, consulting firms - Nada
2. Beijing Trek - Some
3. Microeconomics cheat sheet for studying - Nada
4. Accounting cheat sheet for finals - Nada
5. Rest - Plenty
Well... I'd say I had a really good Thanksgiving.
2. Beijing Trek - Some
3. Microeconomics cheat sheet for studying - Nada
4. Accounting cheat sheet for finals - Nada
5. Rest - Plenty
Well... I'd say I had a really good Thanksgiving.
11/26/2005
Outlet shopping!
You know it's gonna be interesting when you wake up at 5 am for shopping. Thanksgiving morning, baby, it's all going crazy.
Fact 1: Be patient. After parking cars in Boston for years, I think I have that.
Fact 2: Be efficient. Business school student. HELLO!?
Fact 3: Avoid lines. I'm a guy, I don't need COACH that badly.
Fact 4: Be early. 5 am was early enough.
Giorgio Armani: guess who is inside? ASIANS! All of them. There were (I counted) 5 white people and one black person. Yup, the sales people! And you know what? Half the Asians were hauling their crying/whining babies and kids around. The other half? Zits! Kids with zits!
Ahhhh...!
I had a game plan with what to buy, and I followed my game plan. Everything done by 10 am. Got my shoes, my socks, my sweater, and my towel. Problem is... my shopping companions were only half done. So I ate and I ate and I ate... in liue of Thanksgiving Dinner, I had Outlet Mall Food Court.
Fact 1: Be patient. After parking cars in Boston for years, I think I have that.
Fact 2: Be efficient. Business school student. HELLO!?
Fact 3: Avoid lines. I'm a guy, I don't need COACH that badly.
Fact 4: Be early. 5 am was early enough.
Giorgio Armani: guess who is inside? ASIANS! All of them. There were (I counted) 5 white people and one black person. Yup, the sales people! And you know what? Half the Asians were hauling their crying/whining babies and kids around. The other half? Zits! Kids with zits!
Ahhhh...!
I had a game plan with what to buy, and I followed my game plan. Everything done by 10 am. Got my shoes, my socks, my sweater, and my towel. Problem is... my shopping companions were only half done. So I ate and I ate and I ate... in liue of Thanksgiving Dinner, I had Outlet Mall Food Court.
11/24/2005
Weird Dream
This morning, I had a really weird dream with a lot of old friends from Hong Kong showing up at a restaurant. We were having a discussion on marriage and relationships. A girl (good friend of mine, who shall not be named) was speaking in desperation. Suddenly, the entire restaurant fell completely silent. In the dream, it was a very odd moment when everything went quiet. We looked at each other across the tables but nobody spoke.
Suddenly, I hear my phone ring in real life. I wake up and go answer it.
Isn't that weird? It was as if the ears heard the ring, told the brain to "shut the dream up," and then the brain let my ears function with the brain! Wait, does that even make sense? So odd. The human mind still works in mysterious ways!
Suddenly, I hear my phone ring in real life. I wake up and go answer it.
Isn't that weird? It was as if the ears heard the ring, told the brain to "shut the dream up," and then the brain let my ears function with the brain! Wait, does that even make sense? So odd. The human mind still works in mysterious ways!
11/23/2005
Finally, a break!
Damn, it's been pretty much non-stop since August... here's what I've planned for this break:
1. Applications to most, if not all, consulting firms
2. Beijing Trek
3. Microeconomics cheat sheet for studying
4. Accounting cheat sheet for finals
5. Rest
In that order, sadly. There will be a recap next week.
1. Applications to most, if not all, consulting firms
2. Beijing Trek
3. Microeconomics cheat sheet for studying
4. Accounting cheat sheet for finals
5. Rest
In that order, sadly. There will be a recap next week.
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