"First year is over and I'm about to start second year" - even though I just typed this sentence the truth of this statement still isn't quite registering. I've been thinking a lot about my first year at UCLA Anderson recently, especially as I had the opportunity to present to the incoming international students during their International Student Orientation Days. Just seeing them filled me with excitement and nervousness for the adventure on which they were about to embark, as well as feeling a certain sense of accomplishment and relief that I had survived and made it to the start of year 2.
Looking back at the year that was,I would recap my experience as follows:
1) First year is challenging -
It's challenging for everyone but to varying degrees and reasons. For me, the academics, in particular the core courses, were borderline Sisyphean. Never having been exposed to courses like accounting, statistics, economics etc., it was a real personal struggle trying to keep up. That being said, my knowledge increased exponentially.
2) The people are amazing -
From my fellow classmates, professors, administrators and everyone in between, the people at UCLA Anderson are amazing. Brilliant, personable, supportive and fun, I would not have survived first year without them. And I am really excited at the prospect of meeting the new incoming class of 2012.
3) It was one of the most memorable years of my life -
First year was full of so many positive experiences that despite the challenges, it will be forever remembered as one of the most memorable and best years of my life. Bold statement? Yes. But in light of the people, program and location, I absolutely stand by it with confidence.
With the experience of first year under my belt, I'm looking forward to see what second year holds in store. But before that, still have a couple weeks of fun and relaxation to enjoy and plan on taking full advantage!
Birds sing after a storm; why shouldn't people feel as free to delight in whatever remains to them? ~Rose F. Kennedy
