Apologizing upfront for my ramblings…but truly just had one of my most fun Tuck experiences! Thanks to Jem for making is happen…
It was really wonderful to meet so many perspective students on the MBA AdCom chat Tuesday afternoon. I thought your questions were really thoughtful and I must admit, I was happy to meet some of my blog followers. Shouts out to you!!! And thank you for the birthday wishes!!!!
One of the questions that came up several times during the chat was on the topic of collaboration and teamwork. People wanted to know if it really is like the brochures say and how does it manifest itself outside of study groups.
Well, I have an example for everyone.
Tonight, after much debate and lots of stalling, my 13-year old was able to shame me into going to playing women’s ice hockey. I missed some other events a few weeks ago because I was off to buy my equipment and I had shared my intentions to play with several people, including my coach. My 13 year old was right on, when she reminded me of my integrity and how I would expect no less of her than to keep her word and play the game.
Ironically, today it snowed. So there was nothing pleasant about me dragging myself off of my couch at 8:45 to ride over to the rink with one of my classmates. And the lack of pleasantries continued into locker room 1, where I had the joy of trying to suit up! It was then, that my classmate informed the first years (because the second years weren’t there yet) that I had never played before and they needed to help me get my equipment on. That is exactly what they did!
My team, Jem (as in the truly outrageous cartoon gems), is coached by one of my section mates from last year. I think she took pity and drafted me skating ability unknown and regardless of how bad I truly was (and I was truly bad – I have not skated in 3 decades!) she was right by my side all evening. We played defense together, which means she played defense alone and every time we took the ice, my teammates cheered and gave out fist pumps, just for me staying on my feet…
Every time I took the ice, I got better (absolutely ironic) and by the end, I might have made a significant play or two (I’m not sure but that is what my mates kept telling me). I had a blast!!!! I now know more first years (who I really enjoyed and respect as hockey players!!). But maybe most importantly, as my daughter would point out, I honored my word and was rewarded as a result.
At Tuck, the teams are fabulous – study groups, clubs, and even ice hockey teams. We really look out for one another. I have never been in a place where people genuinely want to see one another succeed. I’m thankful the 13 year old prevailed this evening (thankfully she doesn’t read the blog often) and I am thankful for my team and my section mate, who collaborated with me, on the ice!
Read the full article: Collaboration – on ice?