Econ & all that.

Turns out that macroeconomics, is still well, macroeconomics. In the past 3 months, prepping for finance interviews, reading the paper, trying to figure out what the heck happened in the past few years with the financial crisis, and what we hope is the early stages of global economic recovery.

Some of my friends and classmates will say "no way," or present logical arguments as to why we are looking at the second half of a "W." I still go with the too often used "cautiously optimistic" because it's the most well rounded story, and for the purpose of interviews, it matched my stock pitch.

BUT, in all of this, I was hoping that taking Macroeconomics would be exciting, interesting, digging into the heart of the Canadian economy, and the impact of interest rates, and commodity prices. While we have touched on some of that stuff, our text book is still computing the CPI using a basket of goods that includes hot dogs and hamburgers.

I completely understand the need to simplify some of the components to clearly explain. But any chance we could ask for something a little more realistic? Even if they simply switch to Sushi & Starbucks, its a little more indicative of what we are dealing with today. I suppose some folks would say "well starbucks wasn't around 20 years ago to make a real relevant comparison... and to them I think I say... embrace the chaos! Accept that there are changes! Today you need to include the cost of a computer in a typical consumers 'basket of goods' how do you account for the 1980 equivalent of that?

That is my Macroeconomics rant for the day. Perhaps it is because Q3 is very difficult to get motivated to do work. Students are in one of two boats right now. Either they have a job through highly competitive campus recruiting, or personal contacts they lined up on their own, or they are still looking for summer options. Either way it is very difficult to make class a number one priority. Nothing like a quiz to bring us back to reality....

Weekend

I have this problem whereby I think my weekends are my own, and I haven't gotten any work done. Despite the fact that I have a paper due on Monday, and a good stack of readings for class that needs to be completed. But somehow, I reasoned that sleeping in, playing ultimate frisbee, making spaghetti and taking a nap were all necessary Saturday activities. I guess there is a theory that there is always tomorrow.
This is an interesting time at Rotman, the students break into groups according to their preferred career path, and then break into groups based on their level of success. I don't know what it is, or what part of human nature drives it but it's there. I hope that soon enough we'll all have amazing summer jobs lined up and be packing our bags for somewhere hot and sunny... or if the boys have their way, a ski trip. But in either event, I think a break is overdue and so trying to make up for a lot of work and very little play in the first two quarters at MBA school by going out for the 3rd... maybe 4th? Time this week!
Nothing but good times ahead & best of luck to everyone in recruiting mode!

Recruiting week

So by now the 2nd years (next year that will be us) and the CCC have told us 100 times or more that there is no time to get prepared for interviews in January and you have to do it earlier. I am here to tell you that.... its true!
The one caveat is that you may spend a lot time preparing and not necessarily get an interview. BUT that is why this is a package deal. Prepare by working hard, keeping your grades up, (ESPECIALLY in your related classes) and network with people. Visibility is important. If they see you coming a mile away and they like you, your resume will simply be more likely to get looked at.
Also by this week when applications are due. Have all your documents ready and waiting. The truth is there isn't enough time to prepare, sleep, do documents etc.
They get 100 applicants and sometimes only interview 4 or 5. All depends on how many jobs they are posting for - often only 1 or 2.
This little rant is brought to you by Katie saying - people prepare!!! And if you are lucky enough to get an interview - don't complain about how much prep you have to do to get it done. There are 99 people waiting to take your interview slot.
Anyhow - that's all she wrote....

MBA Games

Now that we have had a full week intensive classes, on negotiations, an all around interesting course and good way to ease back into school after the holidays, a few members of our class decided to go to Quebec city to attend the MBA Games. This was the first time Rotman has attended in a few years, and I believe we put in a good showing. There is lots of room for improvement and hope that another contingent goes next year to build tradition.
The games consist of Academics, Athletics and Spirit components, with several events in each, and provide a fantastic bonding experience. While there is lots of opportunity to meet other students from different Canadian MBA Programs, I most enjoyed doing something that was all fun & games with my classmates.
The intensity and rigorous demands of the MBA Program at Rotman, mean that you will spend at lot of time at school and get to hang out with your classmates in the library, however this was a rare opportunity to spend a full 72 hours not focusing on school but rather on fun!
The one thing I recommend to future coordinators is to plan further ahead! A 9 hour bus drive is not fun, anyway you slice it!
This week is recruiting week and applications are mostly in, with interviews coming shortly! Will try to update more frequently once Q3 kicks off next week.