What's up tigers? So I am at New Orleans today! Just finished a short running -- something like 4-5 miles. The running is pretty tough. My legs are still sore, I stopped several time, but still finished that. The view is amazing! It is in city park. There are tons of huge old trees in the park, and the river, is absolutely awesome! Robert is a pretty amazing man. More than 60 years old, I think. He is nice enough to host four of us. So, Joe and I slept on the floor, Eva and Echo slept on the bed.
Well, I am too tired to type right now. Talk to you guys later.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Sunday, December 14, 2008
An email from McK
I just received an email from McK HR saying that she was out of office on Friday, that's why she did not reply my email. And she said it is all right to have a call at any time.
I felt bad. Deciding not going McK is the hardest thing. I remember clearly everything I did for McK in my first year. I tried my best, got what I want, but now I am going to give it up. Maybe this is life.
On the other side, what waiting for me is exciting Seattle and MS. I should be happy. Don't torture myself, seriously. Now, go back to study High Tech Mkting final. Good luck tomorrow.
I felt bad. Deciding not going McK is the hardest thing. I remember clearly everything I did for McK in my first year. I tried my best, got what I want, but now I am going to give it up. Maybe this is life.
On the other side, what waiting for me is exciting Seattle and MS. I should be happy. Don't torture myself, seriously. Now, go back to study High Tech Mkting final. Good luck tomorrow.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
I just finished my first 10K today!!!
I just finished my first 10K at Greensboro, NC today! The whole run is in a forest without trail, which is totally different from what I imagined before. I re-hurt my ankle, nearly fell down, but finishing in 52 mins made my whole day! I am so excited. The following is the result for the whole race today.
http://www.offnrunningsports.com/results/2008/2008_12_13_oa.htm
Triad Trail Race #3: Bur Mil 10k
Overall Finish List
December 13, 2008
Results by OFF 'N RUNNING
10k
Place Name City Bib No Age Age Group Time Pace
1 Russell Westbrook Hillsborough NC 594 38 1 Overall 37:38 6:04/M
2 Tim Cate Greensboro NC 516 32 1 M 30-39 37:51 6:06/M
3 Derek Kaat Kernersville NC 551 44 1 M 40-49 38:06 6:09/M
4 Todd Fallesen Winston-Salem NC 531 26 1 M 20-29 40:11 6:29/M
5 Steve Guest Chapel Hill NC 541 37 2 M 30-39 40:55 6:36/M
6 Joshua Grab Winston-Salem NC 539 35 3 M 30-39 40:57 6:36/M
7 Paul Sherman Lewisville NC 583 39 4 M 30-39 42:30 6:51/M
8 Mark Schurman Greensboro NC 603 32 5 M 30-39 43:07 6:57/M
9 Jeffrey Norman Lewisville NC 567 31 6 M 30-39 43:24 7:00/M
10 Jason Smith Greensboro NC 607 24 2 M 20-29 43:32 7:01/M
11 Matt St. Cyr Oak Ridge NC 588 15 1 M 1-19 43:58 7:05/M
12 Rob Bondos Summerfield NC 508 36 7 M 30-39 44:03 7:06/M
13 Brett Gales High Point NC 619 32 8 M 30-39 44:43 7:13/M
14 Heather Foster Archdale NC 535 36 1 Overall 44:45 7:13/M
15 Steve Sims Southern Pines NC 611 51 1 M 50-59 45:24 7:19/M
16 Jade Dickerson Greensboro NC 614 26 3 M 20-29 45:47 7:23/M
17 Wes Bartlett Greensboro NC 506 36 9 M 30-39 46:32 7:30/M
18 Brian McDonald Greensboro NC 564 42 2 M 40-49 47:22 7:38/M
19 Keith Flowe Browns Summit NC 533 39 10 M 30-39 48:18 7:47/M
20 Jamie Engel Pineville NC 530 32 1 F 30-39 48:37 7:50/M
21 Terry Lamar High Point NC 613 61 1 M 60-99 48:50 7:53/M
22 Taylor Townes Greensboro NC 590 41 3 M 40-49 49:47 8:02/M
23 Louis Whiteheart Greensboro NC 595 27 4 M 20-29 50:07 8:05/M
24 Eric Morrison Clemmons NC 609 39 11 M 30-39 50:15 8:06/M
25 Jason Holmberg Lexington NC 548 38 12 M 30-39 50:20 8:07/M
26 Genisis Dancer Greensboro NC 525 27 1 F 20-29 50:22 8:07/M
27 Russ Bell Greensboro NC 507 39 13 M 30-39 50:24 8:08/M
28 Scott Brewington Greensboro NC 510 44 4 M 40-49 50:29 8:09/M
29 Patrick Burns Greensboro NC 511 46 5 M 40-49 50:30 8:09/M
30 Kelly Lamb Greensboro NC 554 29 2 F 20-29 50:39 8:10/M
31 Johan Meurling Winston Salem NC 610 36 14 M 30-39 51:16 8:16/M
32 Tommy Lorenz Oak Ridge NC 602 58 2 M 50-59 51:21 8:17/M
33 Nick He Durham NC 544 26 5 M 20-29 51:32 8:19/M
34 Gabriel Wilmoth Greensboro NC 598 32 15 M 30-39 51:42 8:20/M
35 Trip Hendrix Greensboro NC 545 28 6 M 20-29 51:44 8:21/M
36 Stacy Harris Greensboro NC 543 37 2 F 30-39 51:48 8:21/M
37 Neil Swenson Greensboro NC 615 40 6 M 40-49 51:53 8:22/M
38 John Depasquale Greensboro NC 526 30 16 M 30-39 51:57 8:23/M
39 Meg Wheeler Greensboro NC 601 23 3 F 20-29 52:01 8:23/M
40 James Zarick High Point NC 600 51 3 M 50-59 52:02 8:24/M
41 John Slivka Danville VA 584 51 4 M 50-59 52:22 8:27/M
42 Judy Pellarin Greensboro NC 618 53 1 F 50-59 53:39 8:39/M
43 Don Brett High Point NC 509 27 7 M 20-29 54:00 8:43/M
44 Alan Trent Greensboro NC 591 52 5 M 50-59 55:00 8:52/M
45 Mike Shemancik Kernersville NC 605 47 7 M 40-49 55:06 8:53/M
46 Reba Slivka Danville VA 617 23 4 F 20-29 55:18 8:55/M
47 Charlie Chapmon Asheboro NC 608 59 6 M 50-59 55:38 8:58/M
48 Sara Harmon Kernersville NC 542 26 5 F 20-29 55:40 8:59/M
49 Zack Osborne Greensboro NC 568 58 7 M 50-59 56:04 9:03/M
50 Jerry McDaniel Kernsville NC 563 59 8 M 50-59 56:06 9:03/M
51 Beth Agnello Lexington NC 501 50 2 F 50-59 56:11 9:04/M
52 Stephen Conroy White Plains NY 521 29 8 M 20-29 56:24 9:06/M
53 Keith Hiatt Greensboro NC 546 52 9 M 50-59 56:29 9:07/M
54 John Cox Graham NC 620 39 17 M 30-39 56:48 9:10/M
55 Jeremy McDaniel Greensboro NC 562 31 18 M 30-39 57:28 9:16/M
56 Meredith Coladonato Greensboro NC 604 37 3 F 30-39 57:41 9:18/M
57 Cleary Patrick Summerfield NC 571 51 10 M 50-59 57:52 9:20/M
58 Andrew Madden III Mebane NC 557 42 8 M 40-49 58:53 9:30/M
59 Rosemary Corbett Greensboro NC 606 45 1 F 40-49 58:56 9:30/M
60 Juanita Copple Asheboro NC 522 55 3 F 50-59 58:57 9:30/M
61 Amanda Rorrer Stoneville NC 580 28 6 F 20-29 59:07 9:32/M
62 Rebecca Sage Winston Salem NC 581 31 4 F 30-39 59:16 9:34/M
63 Chad Parker Greensboro NC 612 32 19 M 30-39 59:20 9:34/M
64 Jennifer Vanator Washington DC 592 30 5 F 30-39 59:24 9:35/M
65 Garrett Foster Archdale NC 534 9 2 M 1-19 1:01:48 9:58/M
66 Lora Dunbar High Point NC 529 32 6 F 30-39 1:03:10 10:11/M
67 Gretchen Crowell Danville VA 523 51 4 F 50-59 1:03:34 10:15/M
68 Clyde Dominey Greensboro NC 527 59 11 M 50-59 1:03:46 10:17/M
69 John Riedel Winston Salem NC 579 38 20 M 30-39 1:04:04 10:20/M
70 Craig Price Mooresville NC 576 48 9 M 40-49 1:04:06 10:20/M
71 Carolyn Raia Grensboro NC 577 30 7 F 30-39 1:04:13 10:21/M
72 Kimberly Marriott High Point NC 558 37 8 F 30-39 1:04:16 10:22/M
73 Julie Dominey Greensboro NC 528 19 1 F 1-19 1:04:30 10:24/M
74 Tommiann Hill Reidsville NC 547 48 2 F 40-49 1:04:34 10:25/M
75 Stephen Williams Greensboro NC 596 38 21 M 30-39 1:05:03 10:30/M
76 Stefani Goosic Greensboro NC 538 36 9 F 30-39 1:05:31 10:34/M
77 Dudson Baggett Advance NC 505 37 22 M 30-39 1:06:08 10:40/M
78 Bill Layton Summerfield NC 555 58 12 M 50-59 1:06:44 10:46/M
79 Gregory Aspiazu Greensboro NC 504 28 9 M 20-29 1:08:18 11:01/M
80 Marya Lehmann Greensboro NC 556 40 3 F 40-49 1:09:07 11:09/M
81 Elizabeth Aspiazu Valley Cottage NY 503 29 7 F 20-29 1:09:34 11:13/M
82 Charlotte Matheny Greensboro NC 560 47 4 F 40-49 1:09:45 11:15/M
83 Katie Judge Greensboro NC 550 35 10 F 30-39 1:14:07 11:57/M
84 David Walker High Point NC 593 62 2 M 60-99 1:23:19 13:26/M
85 Laura Slivka Danville VA 616 51 5 F 50-59 1:24:16 13:35/M
http://www.offnrunningsports.com/results/2008/2008_12_13_oa.htm
Triad Trail Race #3: Bur Mil 10k
Overall Finish List
December 13, 2008
Results by OFF 'N RUNNING
10k
Place Name City Bib No Age Age Group Time Pace
1 Russell Westbrook Hillsborough NC 594 38 1 Overall 37:38 6:04/M
2 Tim Cate Greensboro NC 516 32 1 M 30-39 37:51 6:06/M
3 Derek Kaat Kernersville NC 551 44 1 M 40-49 38:06 6:09/M
4 Todd Fallesen Winston-Salem NC 531 26 1 M 20-29 40:11 6:29/M
5 Steve Guest Chapel Hill NC 541 37 2 M 30-39 40:55 6:36/M
6 Joshua Grab Winston-Salem NC 539 35 3 M 30-39 40:57 6:36/M
7 Paul Sherman Lewisville NC 583 39 4 M 30-39 42:30 6:51/M
8 Mark Schurman Greensboro NC 603 32 5 M 30-39 43:07 6:57/M
9 Jeffrey Norman Lewisville NC 567 31 6 M 30-39 43:24 7:00/M
10 Jason Smith Greensboro NC 607 24 2 M 20-29 43:32 7:01/M
11 Matt St. Cyr Oak Ridge NC 588 15 1 M 1-19 43:58 7:05/M
12 Rob Bondos Summerfield NC 508 36 7 M 30-39 44:03 7:06/M
13 Brett Gales High Point NC 619 32 8 M 30-39 44:43 7:13/M
14 Heather Foster Archdale NC 535 36 1 Overall 44:45 7:13/M
15 Steve Sims Southern Pines NC 611 51 1 M 50-59 45:24 7:19/M
16 Jade Dickerson Greensboro NC 614 26 3 M 20-29 45:47 7:23/M
17 Wes Bartlett Greensboro NC 506 36 9 M 30-39 46:32 7:30/M
18 Brian McDonald Greensboro NC 564 42 2 M 40-49 47:22 7:38/M
19 Keith Flowe Browns Summit NC 533 39 10 M 30-39 48:18 7:47/M
20 Jamie Engel Pineville NC 530 32 1 F 30-39 48:37 7:50/M
21 Terry Lamar High Point NC 613 61 1 M 60-99 48:50 7:53/M
22 Taylor Townes Greensboro NC 590 41 3 M 40-49 49:47 8:02/M
23 Louis Whiteheart Greensboro NC 595 27 4 M 20-29 50:07 8:05/M
24 Eric Morrison Clemmons NC 609 39 11 M 30-39 50:15 8:06/M
25 Jason Holmberg Lexington NC 548 38 12 M 30-39 50:20 8:07/M
26 Genisis Dancer Greensboro NC 525 27 1 F 20-29 50:22 8:07/M
27 Russ Bell Greensboro NC 507 39 13 M 30-39 50:24 8:08/M
28 Scott Brewington Greensboro NC 510 44 4 M 40-49 50:29 8:09/M
29 Patrick Burns Greensboro NC 511 46 5 M 40-49 50:30 8:09/M
30 Kelly Lamb Greensboro NC 554 29 2 F 20-29 50:39 8:10/M
31 Johan Meurling Winston Salem NC 610 36 14 M 30-39 51:16 8:16/M
32 Tommy Lorenz Oak Ridge NC 602 58 2 M 50-59 51:21 8:17/M
33 Nick He Durham NC 544 26 5 M 20-29 51:32 8:19/M
34 Gabriel Wilmoth Greensboro NC 598 32 15 M 30-39 51:42 8:20/M
35 Trip Hendrix Greensboro NC 545 28 6 M 20-29 51:44 8:21/M
36 Stacy Harris Greensboro NC 543 37 2 F 30-39 51:48 8:21/M
37 Neil Swenson Greensboro NC 615 40 6 M 40-49 51:53 8:22/M
38 John Depasquale Greensboro NC 526 30 16 M 30-39 51:57 8:23/M
39 Meg Wheeler Greensboro NC 601 23 3 F 20-29 52:01 8:23/M
40 James Zarick High Point NC 600 51 3 M 50-59 52:02 8:24/M
41 John Slivka Danville VA 584 51 4 M 50-59 52:22 8:27/M
42 Judy Pellarin Greensboro NC 618 53 1 F 50-59 53:39 8:39/M
43 Don Brett High Point NC 509 27 7 M 20-29 54:00 8:43/M
44 Alan Trent Greensboro NC 591 52 5 M 50-59 55:00 8:52/M
45 Mike Shemancik Kernersville NC 605 47 7 M 40-49 55:06 8:53/M
46 Reba Slivka Danville VA 617 23 4 F 20-29 55:18 8:55/M
47 Charlie Chapmon Asheboro NC 608 59 6 M 50-59 55:38 8:58/M
48 Sara Harmon Kernersville NC 542 26 5 F 20-29 55:40 8:59/M
49 Zack Osborne Greensboro NC 568 58 7 M 50-59 56:04 9:03/M
50 Jerry McDaniel Kernsville NC 563 59 8 M 50-59 56:06 9:03/M
51 Beth Agnello Lexington NC 501 50 2 F 50-59 56:11 9:04/M
52 Stephen Conroy White Plains NY 521 29 8 M 20-29 56:24 9:06/M
53 Keith Hiatt Greensboro NC 546 52 9 M 50-59 56:29 9:07/M
54 John Cox Graham NC 620 39 17 M 30-39 56:48 9:10/M
55 Jeremy McDaniel Greensboro NC 562 31 18 M 30-39 57:28 9:16/M
56 Meredith Coladonato Greensboro NC 604 37 3 F 30-39 57:41 9:18/M
57 Cleary Patrick Summerfield NC 571 51 10 M 50-59 57:52 9:20/M
58 Andrew Madden III Mebane NC 557 42 8 M 40-49 58:53 9:30/M
59 Rosemary Corbett Greensboro NC 606 45 1 F 40-49 58:56 9:30/M
60 Juanita Copple Asheboro NC 522 55 3 F 50-59 58:57 9:30/M
61 Amanda Rorrer Stoneville NC 580 28 6 F 20-29 59:07 9:32/M
62 Rebecca Sage Winston Salem NC 581 31 4 F 30-39 59:16 9:34/M
63 Chad Parker Greensboro NC 612 32 19 M 30-39 59:20 9:34/M
64 Jennifer Vanator Washington DC 592 30 5 F 30-39 59:24 9:35/M
65 Garrett Foster Archdale NC 534 9 2 M 1-19 1:01:48 9:58/M
66 Lora Dunbar High Point NC 529 32 6 F 30-39 1:03:10 10:11/M
67 Gretchen Crowell Danville VA 523 51 4 F 50-59 1:03:34 10:15/M
68 Clyde Dominey Greensboro NC 527 59 11 M 50-59 1:03:46 10:17/M
69 John Riedel Winston Salem NC 579 38 20 M 30-39 1:04:04 10:20/M
70 Craig Price Mooresville NC 576 48 9 M 40-49 1:04:06 10:20/M
71 Carolyn Raia Grensboro NC 577 30 7 F 30-39 1:04:13 10:21/M
72 Kimberly Marriott High Point NC 558 37 8 F 30-39 1:04:16 10:22/M
73 Julie Dominey Greensboro NC 528 19 1 F 1-19 1:04:30 10:24/M
74 Tommiann Hill Reidsville NC 547 48 2 F 40-49 1:04:34 10:25/M
75 Stephen Williams Greensboro NC 596 38 21 M 30-39 1:05:03 10:30/M
76 Stefani Goosic Greensboro NC 538 36 9 F 30-39 1:05:31 10:34/M
77 Dudson Baggett Advance NC 505 37 22 M 30-39 1:06:08 10:40/M
78 Bill Layton Summerfield NC 555 58 12 M 50-59 1:06:44 10:46/M
79 Gregory Aspiazu Greensboro NC 504 28 9 M 20-29 1:08:18 11:01/M
80 Marya Lehmann Greensboro NC 556 40 3 F 40-49 1:09:07 11:09/M
81 Elizabeth Aspiazu Valley Cottage NY 503 29 7 F 20-29 1:09:34 11:13/M
82 Charlotte Matheny Greensboro NC 560 47 4 F 40-49 1:09:45 11:15/M
83 Katie Judge Greensboro NC 550 35 10 F 30-39 1:14:07 11:57/M
84 David Walker High Point NC 593 62 2 M 60-99 1:23:19 13:26/M
85 Laura Slivka Danville VA 616 51 5 F 50-59 1:24:16 13:35/M
Thursday, December 11, 2008
What's up USA?!
Hmmmm, so I got an offer from MS! No, no, no, let me back up, it is actually two offers - one for Product Planner and another Product Manager. I know how tough for an international student to find a job in USA this year. The MBA job market shrinks so much. I think I was lucky. The better thing is that the offer comes with pretty good package -- base salary is a little bit lower than McK offer, but the signing bonus is bigger, the relocation package is huge, and there is a stock option. To make it even better, there are more than 10 Duke alumni emailing me to congratulate me. I feel the warm MS Fuqua family even before I start.
So, here comes the tough part -- say NO to McKinsey. Most people think I am crazy to turn down McK offer, especially this year. But believe me, I know what I am doing. The worst thing is to tell NO to Kevin, Enrico, Bolette, Elena, Eli, and everybody who helped me tremendously in my journey from Duke to McK. I had a great summer there. But staying in US and working for high tech is a better choice for me after graduation. I do hope to keep relationship with all those fantastic people.
This is the second to last week in 2008 Fall term. I can't believe how fast time goes. So, what I am doing? I just finished "Slam" today. It is a great book, about how a boy became a kind of responsible man and continue to live his life after getting a girl pregnant at the age of 16. (Just like his mother did!!!) I started to read "Ender's Game". Hope I will enjoy it. My running??? It is not that good right now. I am kind of loose on it. Let me try to get back to training schedule, starting from running tomorrow morning. Also, I should stick to my "push up" plan.
All right, that's pretty much it. Peace out!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Fox center
Well... I am sitting at Fox Center now. I don't remember who and when, but once said that it is cool to sit at Fox Center at night. That's the place to concentrate. I don't know about that, to tell the truth. Just finished my steak fajita from Chipotle, I am satisfied. People are talking around, heyhey, I am listening to Fastball!
I kept my marathon training today. During my TAing management communication time, I noticed that Durham is snowing. Natasha told me that, Joe told me that, but it is until I was outside and felt the snow, I came to believe that Durham is snowing. After the TA session, I drove back home and changed my outfit to have a run. Man, my legs were still sore from the run yesterday, but I was gonna to challenge myself and run a even tougher one -- from home to WaDuke trail and then back home. It is around 5.6 miles, while according to my training book, it asked me to run 4 miles. Hmmmm, I am not showing off. I am still not a good runner, but I enjoy it more and more. I used to think that the worst thing about WaDuke is the up and down, up and down, again up and down hill. Man, you need to check out how steep it is... But now, after reading the book, I changed my mind set. I told myself "Come on hill, let's run together!" or "Come on pain, you wanna join me to run?!" I guess this is good.
I finished the running today in 60mins. During the run, I thought some things about Microsoft. Actually I received my interview schedule before my run. I am excited to go to Seattle, to go to Redmond, and to finally visit Microsoft! I told myself -- don't think which offer I should take, don't think how attractive McK offer is, don't waste my time on those mirage things, focus myself on what I can do today -- this is the most concrete thing! So tonight, I should do something for Microsoft. 1) Book travel 2) Email to Grace 3) Asylum book 4) SharePoint reading.
Man, there are still lots of people at Fox. Let me switch to library. Sounds like a good idea!
BTW, I just got my scholarship check today!!!!!!! Not too much, but feel so good!
Friday, November 14, 2008
TGIF
Thank God Its Friday! But for what? I was so tired...
I was reading "The inmates are running the asylum", which talks a lot about how bad the design of ATM, software, alarm clock is -- sometimes it requires professional knowledge to operate them. I believe what the author said, but thought that it is not a big deal, right?! Right?! This morning, I experienced it. Damn it! My iHome woke me up at 7:15am with can't-be-louder "Life is a highway". I wanna crash it with my still sore arm and fist and go back to sleep. However, with my roommates' leaving for school noise, I officially got up. So, here is my early Friday morning blog.
I have been to US for one and a half year for my MBA study. I like it here. First Year (SY) MBA life is amazing. Besides busy study and job hunting, I tried my best to embrace American culture. Second Year (SY), now, I did not do a good job. Life is different now. I tried to be myself more and did something I would never imagined before. But no good results. Relationships with my friends also become looser. I know the reason, and should definitely change that.
Some good news? I just got a scholarship!!! It is Duke Class 1998 and 1997 Scholarship. I am one of fifteen Fuqua students who got it! After being invited to apply for the scholarship, I wrote an essay 1.5 months ago to show my leadership in academic, Fuqua community, and extra curriculum. I did not expect to got the scholarship, because the rejection from Bain, LEK, Dell already got me used to NO. But somehow it came true. I should really thank Scott and Ally who encouraged me to apply for this scholarship when I wanted to give up. I did not tell anybody this news besides Scott, Ally, and Joe, because I don't want to make other people feel bad. In this period of time, when most of the news is bad news, this good news from me won't help to cheer others up. I sincerely hope my fellow classmates can get a good job! And then, I can share the good news with them.
So, I might go to MS for the interview. I don't know whether this will be my last chance to stay in US after graduation or not. I will try my best. I know for sure that it will be tough. With the collapse of wall street, every job becomes an ideal place now. Competition will be severe, I can imagine that. Well, focus on what I can do today. That's it.
The other very important thing is that I decide to run a marathon. I am truly impressed by how marathon makes Tim and Craig be so positive in life. I want to be a person like that. I am taking training by myself every week now. My plan is to run Greensboro 10K next month, in order to get the qualification for next February's marathon at D.C.. With the scholarship money, I am going to get a pair of good running shoes. Sweet!
All right! Let me get out of bed and go to DD to have my plain bagel, toasted!, with cream cheese. Wait, wait, wait, did I said a large coffee with sugar and cream?! Here you go!
Sunday, November 9, 2008
It is a great day at Durham
It is a truly great day at Durham. Fall is the best season here. All the leaves start to turning yellow or red. People said Smoky Mountain is awesome, I just believe that Durham is better.
I woke up with a dream about my talk with a partner at McK. Recently, I had lots of dreams about what happen after I sign the offer. I am afraid. (Yes, I am all right to say that I am afraid!)
Need to do work now, I will continue this later...
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Hey there!
I apologize for using this place to express my sad feelings about job hunting. I don't want to spread the negative feeling to others. However, this is the only place that I have the right to feel sad and say some words to comfort myself. In front of other people, I need to be positive and laugh all the time. Fuck, it is so ridiculous to do that. But somehow this is what everybody does. Again... what everybody does...
I woke up today with this feeling that I had never done something that put my life to the edge and give a huge risk to myself. I always chose the "safer and more efficient way", which 90% gave me great success. But the "safe and efficient" and "success" are really in other people's eye. It all thanks to my parents who always guide me to a correct way from their past experience. They don't want to me repeat the hardship they had and mistakes they made in their life. But to me, after I got all the things I wanted before, so what???
So, I had the craziest idea this morning -- "Say no to the firm and then try to find a job here" I know that I could succeed or I could end up with nothing. But thinking about this experience makes me excited. Life needs more flavors, I think.
Well, that's wild idea that I might try later. But, come on, as a MBA student who talked about minimizing risk every single days, and considering the current financial market situation, I should learn something about risk management, right?! Man, I want to do something like Mr. E ("Things the grandchildren should know") and Chris ("Into the wild"). Just to do something I wanna to, but without the terrible ending that happened to Chris.
Whatever, I think I need to get pumped up again today. It will be a busy but relaxing day. 7 miles jogging in WaDuke trail (M), lunch with FY to share consulting interview preparation experience (N), competitive analysis game (M & N), leadership homework (M), Dell interview preparation and call Gerald (A), team meeting (A), 100 push up (ALL), guitar practicing (E).
Saturday, November 1, 2008
This is real -- life keeps on going
I did not hear anything from Bain yesterday. This is a "NO" with Bain's tradition. Wait... I just got a call from them -- and it is a DING.
I don't know what to say. I tried my best during the interview. Tried to be energetic, positive, and logical. This is just like what I said to everybody else before their interview. I knew that I did not do a good job on my last interview with Stu. But I think the overall conversation is all right. Guess this year is really too competitive.
Today is a tough day. Help Scott to do moving, costume shopping, mock case interview, Deloitte case competition judge, pick up Batu, and Halloween party... Let me lick the wound and keep being happy!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
So, life keeps moving... II
So, life keeps moving...
It is a short/long fall break. I know that it is kind of ironic. But life is.
So, what happened to me recently? I went to Smoky Mountain with Joe, Ellen, and Wendy last Sunday. We had tons of fun. I kind of like Ellen. She is a great girl. I tried to read "The Power of Now"... Nah, it should be that I tried to finish it, but did not make it. It is a great book on some level, but some part is hard to be sticky. I finished "Things the grandchildren should know". Oh, God, this is one of the best book ever!!! E is truly an amazing person with a tragic/lucky life. He shows that how a young man struggled to live his life to fullest every day. I truly admire that. I think I got ding from LEK, even if have not heard from them till now. Mousumi already got the call and get the offer yesterday. And I am waiting for Bain's final decision tomorrow. I hope it is good news, but given the competition situation this year, I can only cross my fingers.
I also found a great song "Leaving Town", and had listened to it for three days... I re-started to play guitar from two days ago. God, it hurts my fingers! But I think only practice makes a great player, right?! So, I should just keep playing. Thirty minutes every night, let me stick to the plan, and I will be good after the term. Right, talking about this term, I love the classes I chose! Leadership is a good one. Although the beginning of the class is kind of down, the later part, especially the card game, is so fun. I know that I am GREEN. Oh, yes, I can not stay with old shit for a long time, and I will die if things are the same. Competitive Analysis is also kind of exciting. Pino is a great professor, truly a exceptional individual as well. The game we are going to play seems lots of fun. I will enjoy it. Marketing of High Tech, umm, I did not have the class yet, but the first case "Hybrid Car" is inspiring. I have not enjoyed reading case for a long time. Term 2, gonna to be something!
Going back to job hunting, I know the only thing I can do is to be positive. Just like what E said -- all those tragedies happened in life seems the worst things, but actually they made life more fruitful and gave life a broader range. As to me, from failure of LEK, I bought Economist and start to learn more about what's going on around me. I should keep doing it. Regarding, Bain, I tried my best. That's it. No matter what the result is, I should not think back that what could be changed to have better result. I am me. I should keep helping other SY and FY to prepare for consulting interviews. Passing my learnings to other Duke student will make me happy. And if they can get offers, that's the best reward.
I know that I am jumping around. But I need to say -- I am going to start another book "The World without Us" today! It is the best seller from NYTimes. I hope I will enjoy it. Right, right, right, and remember to playing guitar!
Good luck tomorrow!
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Start to learn Guitar today? No, let me say next Tuesday. Yep!
Dude, I am serious this time. This is one thing I should do and in my "Things to do before 30" list.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Going to Boston today!!!
So, I got into LEK and Bain second round! I am so excited!!! It is very hard for an international student to stand out in consulting, especially in such a tough market. But I tried my best.
Tomorrow is the day for LEK second round interview. It will be in Boston. I love Boston. That's such a great place. I had tons of fun last year at Boston. Two of my good friends are there JinFeng ("was" for Feng, since he is in Korea now) and Ally. I can't wait to go to Boston, even if I know the interview will be tough and weather will be freezing cold.
Interview season is not easy. There are endless pressure every single day. And this year... sometimes I am wondering whether I should stick to my dream to explore more about this world, or just take what I had -- something people said is great. (tbc. going to lunch now)
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
So, life keeps moving...
The new Fuqua Ford library is really awesome, but I spent less and less time at the library. Today is one of the few days this term.
I finished my Bain interview today. It is really hard to tell the result. And considering so many talent competitors, I do not put much hope for the second round. After the interview, I went to running in Al Buehler Trail at Duke Forest. It is a nice place, especially for running when having fever. Things did not go well these days. Mostly my reasons. I run as a way to get out of life and keep self energetic. It works somehow. I am more positive during/after running and feel much better about all the challenges I am facing. Fight! Be a fighting dreamer!
This year, the job market is horrible. Damn! US consulting firms shrink the hiring plan dramatically. Yep, I can see from the number of people who got closed list. The number is much smaller than first year summer internship number, which is ridiculous. I do want to get a job in a top consulting firm in US. But after today, I blowed away my only hope Bain. BCG hates me, as always. McK... I can't interview with it any more, since I already had an offer from them in Asia. My mentor told me that I can do the transfer after joining McK. I deeply appreciate what he proposed and his help. And if I really can't get anything else, I should just take it. At least every other people say it.
Yes, that's the moment!!! When "every other people say it"... Is that right? Orit, Bain chairman, once said that "The biggest risk is not to take risk at all". And for my whole life, I am running away from risk. Well, finance professor will say that everybody is risk averse, but when one stay on risk averse mode too long, he just want to change. Make sense, right?
Anyway, I still have some other interviews to go -- LEK tomorrow, Deloitte on Thursday, and Microsoft later this month (hopefully). Try my best!
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
So here comes the 2nd year!
Hooary! Today is the first day of second year!
I am still with some jet lag. But it is ok, I can manage that. Two things to do today -- ask for Spanish course permission code and get money into my bank account.
Well, enjoy ILE2 today!
I am still with some jet lag. But it is ok, I can manage that. Two things to do today -- ask for Spanish course permission code and get money into my bank account.
Well, enjoy ILE2 today!
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Fourth Day of My Consulting Project
This is the fourth day of my consulting project. Can't believe how fast it goes...
Yesterday is by far the best day. Don't get me wrong, "best" does not means there is nothing to do. Quite oppositely, I achieved lots of things -- the interview, drafted the basic app map, and most importantly, have a awesome Italian dinner at 10pm.
It is a nice restaurant and inside the Westin hotel. The good thing about being a consulant is that I don't need to spend any money when I am in a study. I followed my buddy and ordered Boston lobster and steak. It is more than $50 for the single dish, but nobody cared... I must say, it is the best steak I have ever had. But for lobster, I still think the one in Little Peach Garden Restaurant at Boston is the world-class, but this one is not bad either. After the awesome food, we had some hand-made ice cream. That's aweful... I, could make better one.
This morning, a litte bit late, I went to the gym. Did not spent a full hour there. But it is great to exercise. When I headed to breakfast, a waitress said "Sir, you look sooooo happy and energetic today. Anything good?" "Only gym in the morning." Yes, it is true. I love gym now. I can continue the topic yesterday about gym for ten pages, back and front. But I prefer to do instead of talking. (See, I am changing...)
This afternoon, my teammates began to discuss my situation in the team room - whether to come back to McKinsey for full time and future career stuffs. I do wish to get the return offer. McKinsey is a great company. I still remembered that how hard it is to turn down Bain's partner. That's a great firm too and maybe better life style, at least what most consultants say. But my reason for choosing McK is clear -- McK alumni network, network that I already built, broad range of industry, fame, and most importantly, I simply could not turn down Eli, Elena, Kevin, and Jiab who helped me tons in finding a consulting job. They demonstrated how nice McK ppl are and how can I say NO to them?!
Lucikly, so far my experience in the firm is quite positive. Long working hour doed make me feel tired and frustrated sometime. But how can I blame nature of the job?! I guess it just take time for me to switch from fantastic relaxing student life at Duke to a consultant's.
I am also thinking about the second project I might take after this. Our project might end at early/mid July, which means that I have another 3-4 weeks for my internship. How about a DD project? I know it will be tough. But a great learning experience is attractive as well. And also it open a door for me to taste consultant's nightmare project. Why not? Maybe I should ask Eli and Kevin.
After that, I mean my internship, I plan to travel. Craig has not replied me about his booking infomration yet. No matter what, I really want to go Tibet this time. At least visit the base camp is something I need to do. If possible, I also want to travel more to Nepal or countries nearby. That would be awesome.
Need to get back to Spending analysis now. Peace out.
Yesterday is by far the best day. Don't get me wrong, "best" does not means there is nothing to do. Quite oppositely, I achieved lots of things -- the interview, drafted the basic app map, and most importantly, have a awesome Italian dinner at 10pm.
It is a nice restaurant and inside the Westin hotel. The good thing about being a consulant is that I don't need to spend any money when I am in a study. I followed my buddy and ordered Boston lobster and steak. It is more than $50 for the single dish, but nobody cared... I must say, it is the best steak I have ever had. But for lobster, I still think the one in Little Peach Garden Restaurant at Boston is the world-class, but this one is not bad either. After the awesome food, we had some hand-made ice cream. That's aweful... I, could make better one.
This morning, a litte bit late, I went to the gym. Did not spent a full hour there. But it is great to exercise. When I headed to breakfast, a waitress said "Sir, you look sooooo happy and energetic today. Anything good?" "Only gym in the morning." Yes, it is true. I love gym now. I can continue the topic yesterday about gym for ten pages, back and front. But I prefer to do instead of talking. (See, I am changing...)
This afternoon, my teammates began to discuss my situation in the team room - whether to come back to McKinsey for full time and future career stuffs. I do wish to get the return offer. McKinsey is a great company. I still remembered that how hard it is to turn down Bain's partner. That's a great firm too and maybe better life style, at least what most consultants say. But my reason for choosing McK is clear -- McK alumni network, network that I already built, broad range of industry, fame, and most importantly, I simply could not turn down Eli, Elena, Kevin, and Jiab who helped me tons in finding a consulting job. They demonstrated how nice McK ppl are and how can I say NO to them?!
Lucikly, so far my experience in the firm is quite positive. Long working hour doed make me feel tired and frustrated sometime. But how can I blame nature of the job?! I guess it just take time for me to switch from fantastic relaxing student life at Duke to a consultant's.
I am also thinking about the second project I might take after this. Our project might end at early/mid July, which means that I have another 3-4 weeks for my internship. How about a DD project? I know it will be tough. But a great learning experience is attractive as well. And also it open a door for me to taste consultant's nightmare project. Why not? Maybe I should ask Eli and Kevin.
After that, I mean my internship, I plan to travel. Craig has not replied me about his booking infomration yet. No matter what, I really want to go Tibet this time. At least visit the base camp is something I need to do. If possible, I also want to travel more to Nepal or countries nearby. That would be awesome.
Need to get back to Spending analysis now. Peace out.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Squeeze time
I am now squeezing time to write blog everyday. Not that I really want to, but I think I need to. Kind of feeling that the whole work and life is like a huge mountain in front of me. Try to move it, and slowly.
Trying to stick to gym plan everyday, but failed yesterday due to project reason. I went back to hotel around 11pm and talked with Joe for half an hour. I need the talk, seriously. I was joking that every time when I see a summer associate like me, I am like finding a saver. It is good to share my experience and thoughts so far with people who is doing similar things and at same stage. That's good.
So, go back to the gym stuff. I went to gym this morning. It is truly hard to get up when I was only in bed for a little bit more than six hours. But no matter what I jumped out of the bed and headed to the gym.
Ironically, I loved gym now. I used to say that there is no reason people want gym while there are so many great outdoor sports going on. I used to think that even if jogging on the street is better than gym. But now my idea was smashed. Gym is nice. Because you are not alone there. You can feel that there are tons of people who also strike to make their body better. And the second reason is the nice condition -- constant environment, air-con, ..... (End of today's thoughts)
Trying to stick to gym plan everyday, but failed yesterday due to project reason. I went back to hotel around 11pm and talked with Joe for half an hour. I need the talk, seriously. I was joking that every time when I see a summer associate like me, I am like finding a saver. It is good to share my experience and thoughts so far with people who is doing similar things and at same stage. That's good.
So, go back to the gym stuff. I went to gym this morning. It is truly hard to get up when I was only in bed for a little bit more than six hours. But no matter what I jumped out of the bed and headed to the gym.
Ironically, I loved gym now. I used to say that there is no reason people want gym while there are so many great outdoor sports going on. I used to think that even if jogging on the street is better than gym. But now my idea was smashed. Gym is nice. Because you are not alone there. You can feel that there are tons of people who also strike to make their body better. And the second reason is the nice condition -- constant environment, air-con, ..... (End of today's thoughts)
Be positive
Just checked out Quan's photo at Shanghai. It is awesome! There are so many happy moment and so much fun. Life should be like that. I think one thing I really need to work on is how to be more flexible, not very dominant, and always want to be superior. Those characteristic really thanks to my Dad. I know that I have changed a lot. But there is still a long way to go. Seize every day, enjoy the moment, even if it is tough and I am so fucking tired.
The life as a consultant is not easy. True that First Class travel, best hotel stay, and pretty good money. But the life style... I just started my new project this week. It is not easy. I am the youngest one and least experience person in the team. I did not get a very important part. But that's all right with me. The first step is always not that easy so take it slowly. My team is pretty good. My manager is a nice person, my Buddy is a great guy, and Sen is a perfect teacher. I am learning, slowly, but progressing. I think that's important at least.
I am a little lost in my life right now. Who I could blame? Blame the stupid Chinese education system that forbid me to be with the girl I loved when I was in middle school? Blame the fucking jerk? Blame that I don't have everything I want? Blame the bad weather? Bull shit! There is no one to blame. This is the one thing I should always remember -- no one I can change except myself. Anyway, let me try again...
Some truth. It is the second day of my project, but got the feeling of tired. Guess because have not worked for a whole year... And also because that I am kind of without direction of the part I am responsibile of. I need to figure it out by myself. Something wrong, dude! I should be more posistive. I know it is not easy, sitting in a small room, team member all went to interview clients, and no music I can listen to. But just like what's said in BTX, you can be the Sun and shine because you have a piece of the Sun in your blood --> Let it shine! Sure that's a nice attitude.
Coooool dude. Let me get back to work. I need to finish the whole list of tasks today! Peace out.
The life as a consultant is not easy. True that First Class travel, best hotel stay, and pretty good money. But the life style... I just started my new project this week. It is not easy. I am the youngest one and least experience person in the team. I did not get a very important part. But that's all right with me. The first step is always not that easy so take it slowly. My team is pretty good. My manager is a nice person, my Buddy is a great guy, and Sen is a perfect teacher. I am learning, slowly, but progressing. I think that's important at least.
I am a little lost in my life right now. Who I could blame? Blame the stupid Chinese education system that forbid me to be with the girl I loved when I was in middle school? Blame the fucking jerk? Blame that I don't have everything I want? Blame the bad weather? Bull shit! There is no one to blame. This is the one thing I should always remember -- no one I can change except myself. Anyway, let me try again...
Some truth. It is the second day of my project, but got the feeling of tired. Guess because have not worked for a whole year... And also because that I am kind of without direction of the part I am responsibile of. I need to figure it out by myself. Something wrong, dude! I should be more posistive. I know it is not easy, sitting in a small room, team member all went to interview clients, and no music I can listen to. But just like what's said in BTX, you can be the Sun and shine because you have a piece of the Sun in your blood --> Let it shine! Sure that's a nice attitude.
Coooool dude. Let me get back to work. I need to finish the whole list of tasks today! Peace out.
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