Hello everyone! I am super excited to join the bloggers' team this summer! My name is Alejandra Rodriguez and I am from Monterrey, Mexico. I will be joining UCLA Anderson's full time MBA program this fall with class 2014 (Go Bruins!). Since this is my first post I will talk a bit about myself so you know what to expect in future posts.
My grandfather, some of my cousins, and me. The whole family can't possibly fit in one picture!
I have a very bubbly but intense personality. When I set out to do things I will go to extremes because I am so into it but keeping it in good humor. For instance when I need some motivation I like to play "Gonna Fly Now" (the theme song from the Rocky movie) or "Eye of the Tiger" in my head to get pumped. It works great for GMAT prep motivation by the way, especially when you have been at it for hours!
I majored in accounting and finance at the Tec de Monterrey and have worked as an internal control auditor for about four years. My experience is mainly in U.S. banking laws and regulations and anti-money laundering laws. For those looking for a job where you travel, visit different companies, meet many kinds of people at all levels of the company, and learn new things every day then take a look at internal control auditing. It is a very exciting and adventurous job!
On my free time I like to engage in artistic activities. I am passionate about anything that adds more beauty to the world. My favorite hobby is make-up, what a better way to start the day than doing art on your face? It gets creativity flowing early in the morning and it makes me feel like my day can't possibly be anything but awesome. There is just something fun and magical about being able to enhance different face features to match your mood and the occasion. I also love drawing, especially in anime style since it allows more freedom in movement, proportions and color. Finally I enjoy baking deserts like cupcakes, cookies, pies and cakes. I made the pirate cookie on the right for a party.
In the following weeks I will be posting about how I prepared for the GMAT, how I researched schools, why I chose UCLA, things I am trying to learn to cook so I don't starve in L.A., my preparations to move to Los Angeles, and my last days with my friends and family here in Mexico.
-Alejandra Rodriguez '14
Follow UCLA Anderson at @UCLAMBA
