12-31-18
Adventure, Accomplishment, and New Beginnings
This has been such
a good crazy year that I haven’t even written a blog post in 2018. 2018 was
filled with new adventures, big accomplishments, and new beginnings.
In
the spring, I got an A- in one of the toughest classes in my program. I felt
proud that I took the class instead of opting for what might have been an
easier path. Then in March, I traveled with 18 of my classmates to India to
explore its culture and business environment. It’s ironic that some of my
favorite memories from the trip were on the bus rides. However, the Taj Mahal
was a sight to see and the clear blue sky that day was a blessing. I discovered
that India has as many mopeds as sand particles on a beach. Above all though, I
learned that India is a wonderful country filled with history, hard work, and
people just like me.
In
April, my little brother Keegan turned 21. We enjoyed a night out on the town
going to the different bars and also celebrated with a bonfire the next day
complete with hamburgers, chips, and smores. In May, I enjoyed watching my
little brother Aidan play baseball. As a senior, he was hitting the ball all
over the place. Watching him graduate later that month was a highlight for our
family, and it was the last chapter in what amounted to 18 years spent between
my brothers and me in the West Lafayette school system.
As
summer rolled around, I started my first ever internship. It was in
Indianapolis with a tech company that does accounting and website development
for charities. I’ve always wanted to get to know Indianapolis better, and I’m
happy that I was able to explore it on the weekends through the various parks,
disc golf courses, and other spectacles the city had to offer. Not only did I
enjoy the exploring, but I learned a lot about business and how to work hard.
It was a good experience that I’m very thankful for.
In
mid August, I returned to IU Bloomington for my last college semester to
complete my masters degree. I was given a unique opportunity that fall to be
one of two graduate assistants for the ERP class that the new students in my
program were taking. After countless questions, emails, and help sessions I now
have great sympathy for teachers everywhere.
September and
October were filled with recruiting events. I was happy at how well I
interacted at the various info sessions, careers fairs, and email
conversations. I was excited at all the interviews I got, and could definitely
tell that I improved in my interviewing skills. Overall, it concluded with me
getting a job offer from my top company, Accenture. I thank my family, friends,
teachers, and coaches for helping me reach this goal. Above all, I thank God
for always forgiving me, loving me, and pushing me to be my best and to serve
others.
In
December, I ended my semester with a pricing class and a trip to Las Vegas. I
learned a lot from both my negotiation and pricing classes, and it was a treat
to be surrounded by MBA classmates who I could learn from as well. Las Vegas
was fun but I don’t think it is a place I’d want to revisit anytime soon. The
Pinball Hall of Fame was my favorite part of the trip because I felt that I got
to experience what any kid in the 80s longed to do with their spare change.
Christmas was a thrill and I’m thankful that I have a tremendous loving family.
A few days after the holiday, I found an apartment in Chicago with my parents
and am all set to see what 2019 has in store.
Before
the clock strikes midnight, I’ll reflect on all that 2018 had to offer.
Whatever thoughts roll through my mind, I know that 2018 was filled with
adventure, accomplishment, and new beginnings. What a year.
-Brody
