Thursday, April 15, 2010

Bhangra blast!

SABG's biggest party of the year, the bhangra blast, is on Friday. Over 150 people are expected to attend.

Check out this vid for some (unnecessarily sexy) bhangra tips:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ex5Vidldwzo

Saturday, April 10, 2010

Professors matter

Even for foundation classes (Micro-econ, statistics, accounting) where there is seemingly little difference in teaching, the prof can make a huge difference.

An MBA isn't just about learning the academics. It is about learning the CONTEXT. Highly-rated professors will be able to do this for you - not just teach the coursework, but also tell you how it is applicable to real-world scenarios.

Don't just believe the ratings on iBid, however. Talk to other students who may have taken the course. Consult and add to this blog for actual reviews.

Random Walk

Highly recommended that you go on one. It is an excellent way to meet a few second years (trip leaders), as well as making a few first-year friends before you actually show up on campus.

Midweek at the midway

There is a happy hour at Gleacher Center every Wednesday evening. All Booth students are welcome to participate. This is a great opportunity to network with part-time students, which might be beneficial in recruiting.

Taking classes at Gleacher

Don't feel compelled to take classes at Harper. Especially if you live downtown, taking evening classes can be an attractive option. Often, these classes go for fewer points. Saving 40+ minutes in commute to Harper can be significant.

Taking the metra

As silly as this is, one thing you have to know about the metra is that multiple trains share the same track. Make sure you go all the way up to the train that is in the front, as you might be in the wrong one!

Also, really consider whether you need a monthly pass or not. Sometimes, a 10-ride pass is more economical.

Best hip-hop clubs

I love hip-hop music and want to recommend two clubs in Chicago:

1. Funky Buddha lounge: http://www.yelp.com/biz/funky-buddha-lounge-chicago

2. Elm St liqours: http://www.yelp.com/biz/elm-street-liquors-chicago#query:elm%20st

Forming study groups

It is very important that you form well-functioning study groups, especially for classes that demand a lot of work-hours.

Here's what you need to know:

1. Yes, you do need a study group, even if the class does not require it. It is a good investment in time to meet, even if it is to review concepts and compare answer. Personal experience: I did not have a group for my accounting class, and struggled with it.

2. Try to form groups with people who live close to each other. It makes it so much easier to meet. Also see if you guys can coordinate schedules to see if you can meet on campus, vs elsewhere.

3. The class roster is fairly finalized after Phase 3 of iBid, so you can look through it and see people who have worked with before or have appealing backgrounds. Form groups early, as these folks may commit elsewhere.

4. Consider recruiting schedules. Especially true for the WINTER quarter when on-campus recruiting is in full swing. If you have a group full of people who are targeting consulting or banking, for instance, consider whether they will have time to devote to the group. Balance, as always, is key.

5. Make sure you convey good work ethic and respect for your groupmates when working in a group. Bridges can be burned quickly and reputation formed. You want to make sure people will want to work with you again.

I welcome your comments.