On September 30, 2016 I had the fortunate opportunity of attending a business trip with the career center here at Mount Saint Mary College. They originally were going to take about 45 students, but capped the amount to only 21 students. Unfortunately, my contemplation led me to almost miss this opportunity. I decided to really put myself out there and send back an email saying that I was still interested in the trip, even though there was no spots left. I told them to let me know if there was an opening for the trip. The reason I tell you this is because I recently went to what they call a Lead-strong here at Mount Saint Mary College for student leaders. In that very useful meeting, they talked about the psychology of vulnerability, and why being vulnerable is important for not only personal growth but for student leaders as well. So sure enough, I got the email saying that there was an opening for this trip, and next thing you know, I was boarding a yellow school bus to Bloomberg and Indeed.
I was actually not familiar with these two companies really at all. Part of what the experience meant to me was seeing if this could potentially be a future career path I was truly interested in. I suddenly thought, maybe I could see myself in the business setting. From the moment I walked onto campus they have told me time and time again, it’s okay to be undeclared! I thought to myself, “yeah, okay.” If that’s true, then how come every time I see a sophomore student either wearing their scrubs as a nursing major, or a teacher starting their fieldwork do I suddenly panic? I think after going on this trip, I finally get their advice! They are telling you it’s okay, because the world is a big, and amazing place full of many opportunities! I tell any new incoming student or freshman I meet that I wasn’t truly happy here on campus until I started getting involved. It’s so true that college is what you make of it. I am continuing every day to get more involved here on campus, and suddenly I have this huge smile I can’t seem to get rid of.
On this trip, I found myself in a situation/environment I would have never thought I would be in. I got so much more out of the experience than I originally thought; that in itself is a gift. From a business viewpoint, I thought both companies were awesome. Bloomberg was smart in staying true to their idea of transparency in the working environment. I originally viewed the business environment as cubicles and offices. Bloomberg also had fish tanks and art incorporated into their work environment. They also had a focus on the use of natural lighting in the space, which was very smart on their part, and definitely added to their goal of a tranquil work environment. One of my favorite parts of the company had to be their top floor which gave a beautiful view of the city skyline.
In indeed, they also had a very tranquil work environment. They had a gym for their workers and a pool table. They also offered balcony seating which looked nice for a lunch break on a gorgeous day. I didn’t think some companies offered free snacks for their workers, which was definitely a smart business decision for these companies. Indeed really showed the fun side of the business aspect with marketing. And both companies really focused the goal of every one collaborating on ideas. This trip allowed me to see todays business environment. I think that it’s so important as a Mount student to take advantage of our career center. And if you don’t go to the Mount like I do, look into seeing if your school offers one.
So, in a way, this business trip with the career center has really opened my eyes. It has also given me a sneak peek into my possible future. Before this trip, business was truly a random career path I told my academic coach about because she said tell me about any possible interests you may have in terms of a career. I can now proudly say, that I am now even more confused about my major. (This time in a positive way!) But I know now, that’s okay! Now I can truly see myself in a business setting, as well as an education setting. As much confusion as I am feeling about choosing my major, I don’t believe this trip was at all a set back. I believe it’s just the beginning of this important decision. As for my parents, I know they will be happy to know that tuition money is not being wasted, and that I am taking advantage of opportunities my sophomore year here at the Mount. So undeclared students, don’t panic! We just need more time than others to find ourselves, which means you might want to take advantage of opportunities you come across along the way! "Indeed" you will find a career path just right for you!