An Introduction

As part of my MBA experience at the University of Illinois at Springfield, I am required to keep a portfolio of all of the lessons learned from the collection of books, articles, case studies and any other research and reading (i.e. Wall Street Journal Online, of which I just became a paid member).  I am interested in blogging for more than just a recollection and organization of thoughts.  I would also like to give those interested in this or any other unconventional (weekend, online, etc) MBA program some valuable experience-based knowledge of how I will accomplish my immediate and long-term educational goals.

As we discussed in our orientation and first weekend’s worth of courses (we attend in a cohort-based format 12 weekends out of the 16 weekends in a semester for 21 months), my reasoning for getting an MBA is mainly to advance in my career.  In addition, I would like to increase my knowledge base in terms of the functional areas of Management, Org Behavior, Finance, Marketing and Accountancy and their applications to real-world situations that I encounter in the workplace.  (I work for a heavy equipment manufacturer in a pricing role.)  To increase my marketability as an employee, I would also like to use this opportunity to build my network, enhance my teamwork and presentation skills, and also to increase my “business” self-esteem.

So let’s begin!