Oxford MBA 2006-7

CH 62: Timeless

2008-01-02T17:06:00.000Z

2008. I rang in the new year as I did the previous- from China. However this time it was a little different. The last few months of 2007 have come and gone like a nice dream. I chartered a cruise along the Adriatic coast of Croatia. Waking up every morning with the excitement of exploration, the feeling of the ocean air as we sailed from island to island, and a great crew to share the experience with- I couldn't have asked for more.

After finishing our China summer consulting project, I returned to Oxford to complete the last two weeks of course work and see off my class mates. For one last time all the light that came from around the world to this place was together. The light was warm. It was bright. It was what we all needed. Afterwards, I left the UK and spent time at home in the US with my family. Its always great to see them and spend time with them. They are my permanent light. And they always leave the light on so I know the way home. In the fall I took a road trip across some of the most beautiful parts of this great country. Places I've visited before and places I'd never been to but always wanted to go since I was a kid.

And now I am back in China.

Again.

This time for more then a few days, for more then a few weeks.

It's getting late. Time for bed. There is work to be done in the morning. But before I go, I wanted to thank everyone that has made this moment and all the moments to come possible. You've done more for me then I could have imagined. I hope I can do the same for you. Until we meet again.

I'll leave the light on for you.

END Book 1: Dawn of Dreams

Ch 61: Beijing “er”

2007-07-11T02:25:00.000+01:00

Its 2am in Beijing. I am awake looking outside my window now at the aptly named Fortune Plaza, the headquarters of the company I have been working for the last 5 weeks in China as my summer consulting project. We have three weeks left to deliver our final report and presentations. We have a great team and I am confident in our collective abilities to get the job done right.

Working in China has been both a relief and a great learning experience. It’s been a relief in the sense that I know better what to expect out of myself if I am to be effective in China. I am also happy to know that classes I enjoyed such as Professor Mari Sato’s International Business and Professor Eric Thun’s Business in China have great practical application to both the Chinese business environment and our particular project. The learning experience is a daily blessing. Every day I continue to learn more about the local operating environment and more importantly to learn more about myself in the process.

Ch 60: And it would be the last time he set foot in those halls...

2007-06-18T01:11:00.000+01:00

The last flower I wore was red, after sporting both pink and white ones on previous occasions as is tradition during exam times in Oxford. I finished my final exam as a graduate student at the end of Trinity term; the last full academic term during my program. The feeling was one I am sure not unusual for many in my position. One of relief. One of joy. And an unexpected degree of sadness. The kind that you get when you know you are near the closing of a great journey. Temporary but memorable.

It reminded me of a line from one of my favorite novels the Lord of the Rings. As Aragorn departed from woodlands of Lothlorien, the narration commented that it would be “the last time he set foot in those lands”. It was a statement of incomplete closure to me. When I first read it as a kid, I was a bit sad to know that such a great place was destined to be experienced only once but also assuring to know that that one visit was enough. Part of me wanted to read more about these wonderful lands left behind, but another part understood that greater deeds were to be done in places still far away.

Fare well exam schools. You represent the beginning of the exit from a great land and what had been a wonderful experience for me. I am not the first, and certainly will not be the last to sweat it out in these halls (it can get hot in full suit, tie, and subfusc). Onward East!

Ch 59: Springtime in Oxford- Welcome Trinity!

2007-04-26T11:04:00.000+01:00

It is now week one during Trinity, my third term in Oxford. All six classes this term are of my own choosing. Here's what I have selected along with my expectations.

1.) Real Estate- Taught by Sandy Agpar the former head of BCGs RE practice I am really looking forward to learning more about the basics of RE valuations and transactions. RE is also something I have been keen in looking into in China.

2.) Marketing Innovation- How to market innovations is taught by Laura Cousins a professor who teaches at a number of schools (a merc). The flurry of innovations coming out from all corners of the world and all levels makes this course a no brainer for me to choose as someone who is always interested in the new new thing (and how to exploit it for max value).

3.) Business State Relations- In China you get as much as the state allows you to receive. In a globalized world we are all more greatly affected by the actions and policies of foreign governments.

4.) Entrepreneurship & Tech. Ventures- Two areas I am keen on pursuing in China. Plus Professor Seidel is a product of the most innovative environment in the world today- Silicon Valley (Stanford).

5.) Business in China- I'm always curious to learn more about doing business in China. Plus the professor Eric Thun is a good guy who is passionate about China. I like that.

6.) Strategic Decision Making in Dynamic Environments- Whether through intense preperation or thinking on your feet the ability to make good decisions is vital to any successful undertaking.

I'm excited. Another term. Another opportunity to gain knowledge, have fun, and learn more about myself in this most unique of places.

Ch 58: Istanbullın'

2007-04-17T21:19:00.000+01:00

Instanbul ıs a clash of western and mıddle eastern cultures. Many cıvılızatıons have made theır marks here (and often on top of the prevıous!). There are many churches and even more mosques- ıf your ınto these thıngs then thıs ıs the cıty for you! It ıs a beautıful cıty wıth beautıful sıghts and good food at every corner (except for tourıst trappıngs where the food ıs blanded down). The cıty connects Europe to the mıddle east wıth a rıver runnıng from the Red Sea creatıng the dıvısıon.

However havıng come from my ınland and coastal tour of Turkey I must honestly say that I was a bıt underwelmed. Thıs ıs no knock on the 'bul' but rather a trıbute to the wonders of the rest of Turkey ıtself! Instanbul ıs a man made wonder wıth many works created ın trıbute to the gods of the rulıng people... But places lıke Olympos and Cappadocıa- they were seamıngly crafted by the forces of nature and the hands of the gods themselves.

I suppose then lıke so much ın lıfe, ıts sımply a matter of personal choıce and taste. Eıther way, Turkey wıns as a great place to vısıt for those who put ın a lıttle tıme and effort ınto explorıng a few of her many wonders. Man made or otherwıse =)

Ch 57: Lıvıng ın a Lagoon

2007-04-17T17:03:00.000+01:00

Not quıte ın a lagoon but next to one on the beach. The beach was Oludenız- a nıce sand beach south of the port of Fethıye (although I'm begınnıng to favor sandstone beaches). I stayed ın a wooden bungalow.

The lagoon ıs nıce and relaxıng- a quıet retreat from my more actıve exploratıon stops ın Turkey. The beach was pretty much mıne as I am told the season offıcıally starts ın two weeks. The weather has been warm ın the day and cool at nıght. The sun keeps the daytıme temperatures comfortable enough to lounge around or swım ın the beach. However once ıt goes down ı fınd the temperature drops dramatıcally to levels that resemble Oxford ın the wıntertıme. The temperature swıng really suprısed me. I suppose that comes wıth the terrıtory of beıng an early season vısıtor- you get the good (your own beach) along wıth the bad (ıts colder at nıght). But ıf thats the prıce of havıng your own lagoon ın the medıteranean- ı dont quıte mınd at all!

Ch 56: Explorıng the Ruıns of Olympos

2007-04-17T16:49:00.000+01:00

The Olympos valley ıtself has been ınhabıted for over 2000 years- just not contınuously. A trıp through Turkey ıs a trıp through western and mıddle eastern hıstory. I love the connectıon to the ancıent! Olympos has been home to a powerful helenıc cıty state, a pırate kıng from Sıcıly, Roman hordes, and vacatıonıng hıppıes (naturally!).

The ruıns of Olympos run along the edges of a stream that follows the valley ınto the ocean ıtself. The beach ıtself ıs a stone beach consıstıng of mostly soft sand stones made so by the currents of the Medıteranean. Its quıte beautıful and the ruıns make ıt even more so. Even more cool to me ıs the abılıty to reach out, touch, and clımb almost any of the ruıns! Thıs would be ımpossıble anywhere else ın the world and Im sure ıt wont last forever. From a Roman garrıson overlookıng the see to an outpost on the edge of a clıff- ıts all avaılable to anyone who cares to gıve ıt a shot. I was lıke a kıd ın a 2000 year old playground =).

At nıght my fellow tree dwellers and I went to Chımera mountaın where fıres have burned contınuously sınce antıquıty (or agaın over 2000 years). Im told ın ancıent tımes that shıps would use them as a beacon to guıde them to Olympos. I wonder ıf they are the ınspıratıon for the Olympıc flames? The sıze of the flames were a bıt underwelmıng but the hıstory and nature of the fıres ımpressed me none the less. Equally ımpressıve was the brıghtness of the stars that nıght as we hıked up the sıde of the mountaın. I dont know ıf ıt was the part of the world we were ın or the darkness of our surroundıngs but I have never seen the stars so clearly or so brıght. Sımply amazıng.

Ch 55: Lıvıng ın a Tree

2007-04-17T16:31:00.000+01:00

You would thınk that after lıvıng and clımbıng through caves I would be cravıng regular human exıstance. But Im ın Turkey, a land of many natural wonders and opportunıtıes for unıque experıences. So Ive moved back to land and a lıttle above ıt- a tree house to be exact.

Im stayıng ın the treehouses of Olympos Valley on the eastern border of Turkey's Turquoıse coast. Hıppıes and backpackers are often the vanguards of explorıng prevıously undeveloped natural envıronments. Soon after smaller developments move ın followed by large hotellıng corporatıons. Yet there are no Burger Kıngs or Sheratons ın Olympos Valley- no buıldıng hıgher then a tree house. And from the looks of ıt, ıt mıght actually remaın thıs way.

The owner of the tree houses I am stayıng ın ıs a young local Turk named Fatıh. Fatıh knows marketıng and the power of brandıng and partnershıps. He spends most of hıs tıme forgıng partnershıps wıth Turkısh unıversıtıes (for group trıps) other hostels ın Turkey (for recommendatıons - thats how ı found them) and foreıgn travel agencıes all over the world (ıncludıng the ever ımportant guıdebooks such as lonely planet and Rough Guıde). And why stop at just the tree houses when you can own more of the customer experıence? Fatıh also runs Olympus yaghts a fleet of saılıng shıps that make 4 day excursıons from Olympos to Fethıye and back (a popular resort town to the west). And where do these passengers stay when they are ın Olympos? Hıs tree houses of course. Its great to see good entrepreneurshıp skılls and the story of a local boy done good- and ıt all started wıth lettıng folks lıke me sleep ın tree!

Ch 54: Wanderlust ın Cappadocıa

2007-04-13T16:07:00.000+01:00

I almost left Goreme one day early. Im glad ı dıdnt. Cappadocıa ıs a treasure for anyone that loves hıkes the sense of dıscovery and world class vıews. I headed toward Red Rose Valley thıs mornıng. The path was well worn and the vıews were great. However I dont lıke well worn paths. They often lead you to where everyone has already been. Slıghtly worn paths are OK too, but I thought ı could venture somewhere dıfferent and less travelled. So ınstead of passıng through the Red Rose Valley I hıked above ıt =). It was well worth the decısıon. No one around but the bırds, the beeds, a turtle I saw along the way and me.

I passed ruıns of cave houses and roman outposts along the way. The shapes of the lava stone landscape were the clay to my ımagınatıon. I was so comfortable ın my element that I actually lost my bearıngs for a whıle! Luckılly for me the sun was stıll up. I followed a path whıch turned out to be a dry stream that lead to the edge of a clıff... Thıs got me thınkıng about well worn paths- perhaps they are not so bad:).

I followed a fresh rıver bed wıth runnıng water that lead me a clearıng wıth fresh tracks. I followed the tracks to what appeared to be unused farmland and then followed a horse traıl (evıdent from 'evıdence' left by horses) that eventually lead me back to the valley where ı began my journey earlıer ın the day.

Hours later, here I am back at my cave wrıtıng. So what dıd I learn today? Well worn paths and unmarked paths are BOTH good. They both have theır uses. However ıf you are to embark on your own unmarked path ıt ıs advısable to brıng plenty of water and start off early ın the day. Thıs applıes to sımılar ventures ın lıfe. Who knows- perhaps one day my now marked path ın Cappıdocıa wıll be well a well worn one too =).

Ch 53: Lıvıng ın a Cave

2007-04-12T22:00:00.000+01:00

Wıthın the span of a couple days I went from sunny Oxford ın the sprıngtıme to the cold (at least at nıght) embrace of Cappodocıa, ın the Southern Antolıan regıon of Turkey. Best of all I am lıvıng ın a cave. How dıd thıs come to be? Hılary term came and went- and what a term ıt was! I am now well ınto the sprıng break (called Easter Break ın the UK).

Cave lıvıng ısn`t as bad as one would thınk. I am wrıtıng now through the maın cave`s DSL connectıon. Thıs ıs fascınatıng for two reasons. One that people stıll lıve ın caves. And secondly that even people lıvıng ın caves have access to the ınternet. The 21st century ıs really amazıng.

The new never really replaces the old. And no where ıs thıs more true then Turkey. I arrıved ın Instanbul two days ago. People are frıendly, really frıendly- ı had genuınely good advıce about places to stay from two strangers wıthın 20 mınutes- one even offered me hıs parents contact ın case ı wanted to stay at wıth them at theır medıteranean beach house later on ın my trıp (ı am KEEPING thıs contact!=) Instanbul ıs crowed and there are a couple of ways to deal wıth thıs. You can learn to have thıck skın and ıgnore the masses around you or you can make the effort to be helpful to those around you. Thankfully, the resıdents of Istanbul have chosen the latter for whıch ı am grateful;)

I made my way to the town of Goreme to escape the nıce masses ın my cave. The cave ıs actually a hostel and one of many wıth rooms carved rıght ınto the sıde of the rock. The rocks themselves were formed by lava flow and techtonıc plate movements well before my tıme. They are a wonder as people have lıved wıthın them sınce antıquıty (way ın the BC) and stıll do today. Some even lıve underground as ı experıenced for myself when I vısıted adfad one of the areas dozens of underground cıtıes! They say that many of these cıtıes are connected by underground tunnels although these are no longer avaılable for regular folks to explore- Amazıng! The valley surroundıngs are surreal and resemble a mıx of the flıntstones and the surface of an alıen planet. At nıght as I walk through thıs strange land, the stars are as brıght as I have ever seen them wıth most constalatıons very notıceable. So lıfe ın my cave ıs not so bad, ıts dıfferent from what I am used to and defınıtely a unıque experıence I wıll not soon forget.

Ch 52: Reflections on the Present

2007-03-12T01:43:00.000Z

Time flies. It’s currently week 8 (soon to be week 9). Week 9 is a revision week (study time) as finals for our 6 classes this Hilary term all fall within week 10. This has been a FUN term. New knowledge, new places visited, and new friends. I’ve come to the realization that this MBA has effectively reached and passed the halfway point. We have three academic terms (Michaelmas, Hilary, Trinity) and one summer term which is two months and has students choosing between a.) summer classes b.) consulting projects c.) writing thesis. Summer term will see many classmates and friends depart Oxford so I don’t count it as part of the full experience but more of a side journey on the way to graduation. So as I stated previously I am more then halfway to the completion of this journey.

I’ve formulated many questions, many hypothesis, and many conclusions during the past 2 ½ months. Foremost of which is that I will miss this place, this moment, our time here. I didn’t imagine myself even pondering the thought before I came here. A primary reason for doing a 1 year MBA for me was that it was efficient and would allow for me to get to China faster and more effectively. But I have a tendency to think ahead in my life and reflect back on the PRESENT in addition to the past (I’ve done this since I was a kid =).

I realize that the people I’ve met in Oxford (and those I am still getting to know better) will never be in the same place at a moment in our lives when everything before us still lies within the realm of possibilities. We are immune to the outside world in a place where everyone is free to learn, debate, argue, plan, not plan, drink, study, explore, drink some more (this is England, mate!), study some more, and explore some more. What an experience it has been and continues to be!

So I wish everyone success in this next round of studying for Hilary term finals and the preparation of final assignments. I hope you find time in between to spend with those who are on this journey with you (perhaps even those you will be leaving once you finish?). Maybe in the future you will reflect back on our time here with similar feelings. Perhaps you will even miss this place and this moment that we are collectively sharing in. You may even wonder “Are there others that feel the same way? Am I alone in these thoughts?” But you will not be alone in your thoughts and your feelings fellow journeyer, because I will miss you too.

Ch 51: Back in Blue!

2007-02-01T12:47:00.000Z

Back in Oxford for Hilary Term (Fancy for Winter Quarter!). I feel as if I'm off to a running start... or is it that Hilary Term has a running start on me? Doesn't matter. Either way I am running =)

Ch 50: While I Slept

2007-01-05T16:08:00.000Z

Jan 2007
While I slept a nation was reawakened. While I slept, a people awoke to a chance at a different tomorrow. While I slept a city was being reborn. While I slept the future was changed yet the outcome still undefined.

Perhaps I had been dreaming for too long?

For when my towers came crumbling down around me, new towers were being built halfway around the world. But I did not see them. Could not believe how fast the future would come. And now I am at the doorsteps of the future. Finding my way through the city of the future. And I can see.

Now I must return to the past. Because a successful future depends on an understanding of the past. But I will be back. I must return. Because while I slept the future changed yet it still remains undefined.

And I want a hand in defining it.

Ch 49: Happy 2007!

2007-01-05T16:06:00.000Z

One heck of a night (and day after) >=)

Ch 48: Top Fun Spots- Shanghai Winter 06/07

2007-01-05T14:26:00.000Z

From my personal experiences and in no particular order:

Bund 15 (Attica)- Good music and one of the best views of Pudong from the outdoor lounge.

Level 2- a new hip hop club on Danshui 66. Great music and a hip, cozy atmosphere.

Guandi- the “older” hip hop club in Fuxing Park. A younger crowd and always a good time.

Bund 18 (BarRouge)- Good drinks and a good place to take a few friends for drinks anytime of the week.

Face- Lounge converted from an older colonial building next to the Ruijin hotel. The atmosphere is quiet and with 2 “bed” lounge areas it’s a great place to get “closer” to others =p.

Cotton’s- A French style building with an outdoor bar and smaller rooms inside for loud gatherings of friends.

Just Grapes- Great wine shop with a sweet loft space upstairs for private gatherings.

Cash Box (Qian Gui)- KTV. China. Nuff said.

Ritz Carlton Jazz Bar- Local and international (i.e. anyone not Chinese) jazz bands play here every night.

JZ Club- A jazz bar with live music and a crowd that really gets into it.

Xintiandi- an area of tea houses, jazz clubs, lounges, stores, & restaurants south west of Renmin park. Not to be missed.

Mint- A sleek lounge close to the city center. Wednesday is lady’s night (free mixed drinks for her but not bad for guys either)

Plaza 66- in Shanghai you are what you wear- and if you shop at Plaza 66 you are wearing the best (or just the most expensive =p)

I also recommend Chinese foot massages with herbal water soaks. I’ve never had anything like it before (but then I am not one to pamper myself). Beware the social danger! Remember “everything in moderation”.

Ch 47: A Skyline Like No Other

2007-01-05T14:23:00.000Z

Dec 27, 2006

Where am I? Is this Star Wars or Lord of the Rings? I took this photo from the 7th floor of a shopping center on the eastern side of People’s Square. Shanghai’s architecture never fails to impress. The city is made to be scene at night when the neon lights glow in patterns and sequences that make you feel like you’re walking through the movie “blade runner” or the streets of a Japanese cyberpunk anime from the 80s.

Ch 46: Beware the Social Danger!

2007-01-05T14:13:00.000Z

What do you get when you combine?
1.) Rapid social change and increasingly abundant economic opportunities
2.) A mobile and growing international population
3.) A city with old world / new world charms & vices

You get:
1.) World class restaurants/lounges/clubs @ world beating prices
2.) Pampered services available @ almost all economic levels
3.) More “fun” distractions then any other city in the world

What does this result in?
Simply put if you are a “normal” person anywhere else in the world from a “normal” socio-economic background with a basic grasp of English then you are a social VIP here (not business or political, just social). It’s funny to see it but it’s a reality of modern Shanghai life. I am a firm believer that ones “true” self comes through not when one undergoes adversity in life but rather when one obtains power / choice in life. Adversity can bring out an animal instinct to fight back (you don’t have much choice). When you have power and choice you’re true nature truly shines.

In Shanghai many regular folks suddenly find themselves as VIPs with relative power and choice. Do they choose to remain as the nice guy/girl that was the optimal choice in their previous environment? Or do they choose to become something else? That’s Shanghai- it doesn’t change you but it does give you (and others) a glimpse of your true self. Are you ready to look in the mirror?

Ch 45: Solace in the City

2007-01-03T07:52:00.000Z

In the most exciting city in the world it can be tough to find a place to step back from it all- an escape from the velocity that comes with being at the forefront of the future. I was fortunate enough to find such a spot on my morning walks through the city. The Suzhou "creek" runs along the northern borders of the Jingan district. I found a small riverside park there one day. It was quiet, with the exceptions of the sounds of the city in the background, the whispers of the flowing water and the occasional water-going vessel. It was lonely, with the exception of an old couple taking a stroll and later on a mother teaching her young son to walk. It was my piece of the city and I relished every moment of it.

Ch 44: Eve

2006-12-26T04:20:00.000Z

Dec. 24

I spend Christmas eve dinner at Just Grapes a brilliant wine store with a private dining loft rented out by a friend of mine and his business partners. Turkey was the last thing I expected to have in Shanghai. I skipped the mashed potatoes as my body is now 42% potato from spending three months in England! It was fun to celebrate Christmas with Americans (and one Aussie). I even introduced the Oxonian tradition of “Sconcing” to everyone- with very interesting results>=).

Afterwards I ventured off into the night (as is common custom in Shanghai). FuXing park was the area of choice for Christmas revelers. Park 97 was OK and a friend had a table there- we also met up with another group of friends who just happened to be upstairs. Quality travels in packs I suppose =)

After a few delicious glasses of whiskey & green tea we made our way to the other lounge in the park -

Ch 43: A Shanghai Christmas Jingle

2006-12-24T04:30:00.000Z

Dec. 24

Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house (ahem Hotel)
Not a creature was stirring not even a mouse
Room 5519 was silent and dark, was there nobody there?
No, the electricity was out!- the staff cuts if off from 4-5am without a care.

Was Ashton angry or disappointed?
Certainly not.
He had a great night- a better time could not be bought.

And he knows that it’s Christmas Eve in Shanghai and he’s among a fortunate lot
To be attending a friend’s private Christmas dinner that evening- a winter party that promises to be hot!

Ch 42: Saturday Night “Fa Sao”

2006-12-24T04:29:00.000Z

Dec. 23

My first Saturday in Shanghai. I spent the morning with a friend (MA Lawyer , Cambridge Alum, & cool Hang Zhou girl) scoping out costumes for a party in the evening. We settled on some masks from a shop that makes costumes for the Shanghai Opera (ours were not quite as fancy). Had some lunch and snacks off of the street side shops. To come to China and only go to restaurants from hotel listings and official maps is a big No No in my book- you would lose out on too much local flavor and life!

I wish I could say that the party was hoppin’ but I can’t- it was a bit low key and the price (180-220yuan per head- without Dinner!) made if feel like a fund raising event =p. So we followed my stomach and another friend’s phone call to a good Chinese restaurant instead (Can you believe that China is full of them? =)

I love spicy Chinese food (and I don’t use the term love lightly- once I love something it just doesn’t stop). Folks here are so lucky-they have a great selection of food at any price level. The best in the world- and at least 1.5 billion would agree with me. Should I return to England having done nothing in China except eating it would have been a good trip. Fortunately, all the activities in between my “feedings” are making this a great trip.

Bund 15 (not to be confused with Bund 18) was a club called Attica on the 11th floor of the building. Nice layout- beautiful view of Pudong on the outside deck. We had a private table, 20 new friends, a great crowd and an assortment of whisky mixes and elixirs at our disposal (plus our masks from the costume party).

A fine evening- even greater now that I have discovered a new favorite drink – whisky with green tea! A smoother blending of east and west cannot be had. It’s definitely coming back with me to Old Oxford.

Ch 41: Family, Optimism, and More Food

2006-12-24T04:27:00.000Z

Dec. 21

I attended an official Oxbridge alumni gathering tonight at the Southern Barbarian (Hunan Food). It was good to meet other folks from Camford who have been out and about in Shanghai in various capacities. It’s even better to get to know them as individuals- which was done afterwards at Bund 18 (A Lounge- you guessed it- on the Bund of course!)

Dec. 22
Today is Dong Zhi Jie! It’s the holiday in China celebrating the winter solstice. As the shortest day (and hence longest night of the year) it is a time to spend with family and be optimistic as the daylight hours will continue to grow longer starting with sunrise the next day. I love the fact that a majority of Chinese holidays correspond to natural events- it just “feels” right. As my own family is across an ocean and a continent I had dinner with a good friend from SBS and her family (Lulu’s - Shanghainese restaurant in Plaza 66). I really trust her taste in food and the choices of her family were no different. Yum.

Ch 40: Good Days Part "Er"

2006-12-20T20:04:00.000Z

Wednesday, Dec 20

Awesome day. Kicked off with another long walk (not to a buffet this time). Walking around JingAn Temple and looking at the buildings really gives you a sense of how much Shanghai has grown (and continues to do so). A lot of construction and demolition of older sections (which if you read the news is a sad thing but I've seen these places close up- they are pretty damn decrepit and dangerous to live in<-destroying them is not a bad thing). Kicked off my first meeting with a partner at a commodity research company (hot industry in a hot country). Great learnings on how lean company structures are necessary in most Chinese companies (as things move fast) and a good discussion on why Chinese companies slow down in growth once they get acquired by American companies (it's the structure and process- once the subsidiary is acquired decisions are slowed down and processes changes to the point where the company soon becomes at a disadvantage versus its pure Chinese peer set). I promised to follow up with him and discuss the branding challenges for his company <-key interest area of mine.

Afterwards I met with the China general manager of a engineering and consulting company. Awesome talk on innovation and the challenges of innovating in China. If you read the papers you'll hear "cultural this and that" with the Chinese and how it inhibits innovation. Short and simple that is bunk (or "rubbish" in Oxford). I think the culture that invented paper, the printing press, and gun powder might just have a bit more to contribute toward world-class innovation (just a bit).Chinese don't innovate because they are not incented to. The current incentive ($$) is in making things cheaper and faster to market. Once the lower end manufacturing market is saturated you will see higher end production and eventually RD which is the root of corporate innovation. IP laws will become effective at this point as locals will have incentive to protect their own creations. It's a process that still being played out.

I love the first hand knowledge and advice from folks who are out here on the frontier. It educates me! It inspires me! It gives me energy! You feelin' my flow?

Later that evening I ventured off to happy hour with SBS Alums at Barbarrosa- a beautiful 3 story Moorish(?) Architecture building/bar in the middle of RenMin Square. It's quite a site with it's golden glow on a clear winter night. Good company, great time. Life is "Hen Hao".

Ch 39: I Gained 10 Pounds Today

2006-12-20T19:27:00.000Z

Tuesday, Dec 19
Today was the day of the cookie monster, except replace the word "cookie" with "food". Starring me as the title character. I woke up hungry today. Really hungry, so like Forrest Gump once did, I started walking, and kept walking, which made me hungrier.. and then even more so. I chanced upon a sign that read "Lunch Buffet 49 Yuan". "Not bad" I thought, as I kept walking I looked inside the place and saw a hot pot ("excellent!"), and right next to it on the same table a BBQ top ("way Ted!").

I was all over it and lovin' it like a fat kid loves cake. All you can eat Chinese hot pot & BBQ- where have you been all my life? I stayed for 2 hours. Ate non stop- the waiter even came by and said "Sir please slow down"... You can't stop a soldier baby! Afterwards I was not hungry. End of story. End of day (or the most important part =)

Ch 38: Dreaming Above the Clouds

2006-12-18T18:43:00.000Z

Reflections on my flight over to China Dec 16-17.

A lot of kids in China means a lot on the plane going back to China. Most cried and made a general fuss about the bother of travel. All actually, except one. He was content to just lounge around his mommy and take the occasional walk. A cute kid. During one of his walks he stumbled over one of my errantly placed legs- he smiled and spoke to me in gibberish (or was it a form of Chinese I did not understand?). He couldn't be more then two so I would assume the former. But then again my Chinese isn't much better then a two year olds so perhaps I am the one guilty of not understanding =p?

Being so small he was able to sleep in what looked like a large bath bucket. Sleep comes so easily to children (and many adults of which I am unfortunately not one). You dream when you sleep and when you can't sleep as easily (like me) you are forced to dream when you are awake.

I dream of an equitable world where every kid gets a shot at growing up as a first class citizen. I feel that our generation can fill in the gap towards making this a reality and that the bulk of this labor will be done through business.

I wondered what the kid in the bath bucket dreamt of?

Perhaps we are not so different.

Ch 37: What did Ice Cube use to say?

2006-12-18T17:34:00.000Z

My first full day in Shanghai and it feels like it's been a week already. Had lunch with an Oxford alum (consulting/strategic planning background) who clued me in on expat life in CN and the overall excitement of the climate here. Dispite the many pitfalls which we discussed, her enthusiam for the future here really caught on with mine. Meetings like this add a lot of tremendous value to my China knowledge base but more importantly provide me with the added reserves of energy which I will need in the months ahead after gradution (This is a key factor for success in China- it will test your resolve in many unexpected ways). The afternoon was spent speaking to an established China Hand (MA banking background) with similarly stellar results. The flow of money across borders is a great litmus test of which countries are benefiting from China's return (and which are not). He also reiterated the importance of understanding different cultures when working in what is essentially a model "global business environment" (Go D.E.M.!)

Dinner consisted of delicious "street food"- fried meats and takoyaki! What can I say, I am a man of the street (and Hutongs). The evening was spent having tea with the CEO of a start-up. We discussed challenges to company growth, the importance of structure before strategy, and again the excitement of working in China at an inflection point in world history. More great learnings and energy to store in my reserves. My China dream is my China adventure is my China war. They are all things you need to prepare for if you want to achieve the best outcome.

So I'm back at the hotel room (after polishing off some more delicious meat on a stick- 6 freshly grilled wings and 3 lamb kabobs for 15 Yuan- that's less then 1 Pound UK! I'm definitely not missing the Oxford sandwich shops...)

To top it all off I finally went to a "fun places" Yeah Baby!

just kidding...

or am I? >=)

Like Ice Cube used to say (back in the nine zeros hommie):

"Today was a good day!"

Ch 36: Beware the Fun Places!

2006-12-18T13:04:00.000Z

Back in Shanghai. Back on the frontier of the 21st century economy. There's an ad on the official Shanghai map that reads "Shanghai is the new center of the world, and xyz company is in the center of Shanghai". If this town is the new center of the world then I would have to say that this new world we are all living in is a very different place then the old one we came from. Different can bring challenges and opportunities. Where there is great change you will find great opportunity. Or just weird stuff.

Take for example the English "safety" guide in every room at my hotel. There's quite an extensive list of 20 odd tips, here are my top three:
3.) "Be on alert against any knock on the door from strangers"
2.) "No Fighting" (it's the new wild west baby!)
1.) "Follow no strangers to the fun places"
(I laughed out loud when I read the last one.) Beware of strangers, fighting, and the "fun places". Got it. Oh China! Gotta love it.

Ch 35: UK ->China

2006-12-16T06:55:00.000Z

I hear birds out. They come out rather early in Oxford before the sun rises. It's 6:56am in England. I didn't just get up. I've been awake. Why you might ask? Two reasons. One we just finished a smashing birthday party over at my apartment at 104 Botley Road. Quite a good time and a great momentum starter to go into the holidays with.

Secondly it's 2:56pm... in China. Which is where I'll be headed in the next few hours. My first landing was a great time with my younger brothers. My second landing will be another great time but with a slightly different focus. I will be meeting with entrepreneurs, businessmen/women, a CEO or two, China business bloggers and Oxford Alumni. They will be my much needed guides and advisors as I seek to learn more about the opportunities and pitfalls of business (and general life) in China.

It's funny but I don't consider this "work". It's fun. It's engaging. It ENERGISES and INSPIRES me to hear the stories of the China pioneers both young and seasoned. When I made the choice to come to Oxford (with my sites set on China) I also made a commitment to put the concept of "work life" and "personal life" behind me. Life is life and I plan to do things with my life that I love. It just happens to be that I'm keen on China business. Hopefully with the right focus, efforts and attitude, Chinese business will be keen on me. 7:08AM... that's 3:08pm China time. I have a plane to catch. Zai Jian.

Ch 34: Faster Then a Speeding Bullet

2006-12-14T20:17:00.000Z

But just as deadly effective. Michaelmas term seemed to have started just yesterday. Yet it's the end of our first term and I have to admit that it's been quite a ride. A ride in which I was sometimes the driver and most of the times the passenger. The destination is still the same in either case. The lessons learned were many- time & resource (people) management being among the major ones. The classes were great- like a good meal that I'm still digesting. A perfect time to go into the winter holidays.

And what about next term? If our current term was any indication then it's going to be quite a ride again. With one term's classes under the belt, Hillary term will be a time to extend my time behind the wheel (and perhaps take a few more side trips along the way).

Ch 33: Michaelmas: Top 3 Social Events

2006-12-12T20:47:00.000Z

Oxford Socials come in all size, color, variety, and flavors. They tend to be as creative and fun as the folks that come up with them (and attend). Here are a handful that I particularly enjoyed:

1.) Fresher's Week- A special time for all souls new to the Oxford community to come out and play. It was an exciting time for me. My first chance to experience full college "bops", revel in the awe of it all- of being in a community so rich with tradition and yet ripe with excitement.

2.) Oxbridge Boat Party- What could be more fun then taking a fancy-paints, black tie boat ride around London on a luxury cruise and dance with 400 mates from Oxford & Cambridge? I was even able to write the outline for a paper on the trip over- what a bonus! One of the many reasons to invest in a good a tuxedo in Oxford.

3.) Matriculation Day- A tradition at Oxford that funny enough does not take place the first week but rather a few weeks into the first term. Matriculation marks your full acceptance as a student of both the University and the college you belong to (mine is Pembroke, a great college started in the 1600s by the Earl of Pembroke). The day starts at your college (where you are dressed in full subfusc), continues with a march to the Sheldonian building (where a welcome speech is given in Latin) and end(?) with a long afternoon and evening within the many pubs of Oxford.

Ch 32: Michaelmas: Top 3 Classes

2006-12-12T20:46:00.000Z

It's hard to believe that it's already been one full term since I started here in the middle of England. The weather has gone from mildly sunning to cold and some days wet. I'm told this will be par for the course come winter term. Should be interesting. Back to Michaelmas (we can never go backwards but we can always reflect):

Top 3 Classes:
1.) Strategy- what can I say but the "art of creating superior" performance delivered. Professor Powell was a master of the craft. Sustainable competitive advantage measures, x-factors et al- they are all great tools and frameworks to have in my arsenal as I approach the challenges in my life ahead.
2.) Developing Effective Managers- I really enjoyed this class which focused on the "people" side of the business equation. Technology advancements have made human capital KEY within the organization as all lower level tasks become mechanized. "Feelings" and "emotions" were generally discussed in class which was relevant to me as it has been my experience that people tend to make decisions with their feelings first, followed by rational to back it up (and not the other way around). Understanding people and more importantly yourself is a good thing (Actually it's the top category on Maslow's hierarchy of Needs- "self actualization").
3.) Financial Reporting- this one came as a shocker to me but Prof. Tomo Suzuki and company opened my eyes to the world of financial reporting (of which accounting is large part) and how much of it is finesse vs. hard science. I will never look at financial numbers the same way. Ever.

Ch 31: Just Subfusc It!

2006-12-12T20:44:00.000Z

An oxford tradition. An now that Cambridge and dropped the policy- the only place that does it the old old way is Oxford. What am I talking about? The traditional garb of the Oxbridge academic- the Subfusc! And the tradition? Why wearing it of course during exams.
During exam times (this week) we are required by policy to dress accordingly, in full suit, black shoes, white bow tie, and our gowns AKA subfuscs. It felt a bit funny at first to sit in an exam hall with 200 of my closet MBA mates dressed up for a fancy party. But after you do it once you get used to it. Then you stop thinking "man this is strange", and you start thinking "man, this is strange AND something special". When else in my life will I do this again? To share in this experience with 200 others.

"man, this is pretty cool".

Ch 30: Oxford Surprise #2

2006-12-12T20:41:00.000Z

Fire hose?

Try geyser.

It's a common phrase in the states to compare business school to drinking from a fire hose. But most schools are two years. The Oxford program is one and you surely feel it. A two year course may have 21 credits (like HBS). The Oxford program has 18 credits broken down by 3 terms. They are as follows:
Michaelmas (fall)- 6 core classes
Hillary (winter)- 4 core classes and 2 electives
Trinity (spring)- 6 electives
It's a great way to get a common grounding for everyone through the core classes while having the flexibility to allow students to explore their own unique interests through elective courses. Additionally there is a winter term Entrepreneurial Project and a summer long Strategic Consulting project. Overall a power packed 1 year ride. And one that you should come thirsty for- because this is no fire hose my friend, it's a full on geyser =).

Ch 29: Smells like Team Spirit

2006-12-12T20:40:00.000Z

One of the concepts used at Oxford and other MBA programs is the work group. And I say group and not team for a reason. Groups are generally made up of individuals who seek individual goals and subsequent rewards- Teams on the other hand are individuals who come together for a common cause and work toward common goals. Not all groups become teams.

Fortunately for me I was able to find myself in a team that worked out quite well. One of the key skills of being a 21st century manager is the ability to work effectively with people who have a different understanding of the world then you. This is becoming quite the common challenge at many multi-national firms- I definitely experienced this throughout my past in consulting and later on within Marketing.

So here's to my Michaelmas-term (Posh speak for fall quarter) team 29. Hailing from different cultures/nations (India, Nigeria, Pakistan, South Africa, and America) we successfully went through the stages of team development (storming, norming, formning, performing) and now we are at the last (adjourning). It has been a pleasure.

Ch 28: Oxford Surprise #1

2006-12-08T16:35:00.000Z

Today is another day of revision. A time to study what we were meant to learn over the past 8 weeks in Michaelmas Term (fall quarter in "American"). This was expected. An education is still an education. But there are many things that have surprised me (in a good way) since I've arrived. Without further ado:

Surprise #1: Bops

Oxford has a ton of parties. Not that American schools (they certainly do!) don't but I'm still impressed by the number of formal social society gatherings, holiday events, and "bops":

Oxford Language Lesson: Bop - a social gathering and/or party- most likely fueled by alcohol but "creatively" themed and certainly well organized.

The number and quality of our bops has far surpassed my expectations. There are 39 colleges in Oxford- that's 39 colleges with their own social calendars. Mix in 500 student societies, an odd mix of creative and smart students from all around the world (who like to dress up) and you have the ingredients of a very good time. Halloween for example lasted 10 days with dozens of bops across college campuses and within the pubs and taverns. Additionally, each college has a number of black tie events every term. You can always tend another bop should you have a friend at that college. A great MBA class and overall friendly student culture encourages making friends at other colleges (so "bopping" at another college is never a problem =)

Now if only there were more then 24 hours in a day...

Ch 27: Typical Oxford

2006-12-01T09:59:00.000Z

Nov. 30, 2006

"Today is going to be a late night" I thought. I had just finished listening to Rita Clifton, Chairwoman and former CEO of Interbrand speak on the "future of Brands". Rita mentioned branding in China(she said the C word which makes my ears perk up)and why it was so important to the country's development. Later on I would ask her about the Challenges facing home-grown Chinese brands overseas. Rita responded that the immediate challenges were:
- The "China" brand itself (i.e. how can it go from cheap stuff to quality)
- China's Corporate Governance (how they are enforced)
She also posed the question "when will we see a Chinese brand with a Chinese name in the global top 100 brands?"

"Good points" I thought, better blog 'em.

Highlights of the speech and our conversation afterwards included:
- The "Consumer" is never used at Interbrand; "People" is preferred and helps clients think of their customers as individuals with individual needs/emotions beyond consumption.
- The trend of the humanizing of capitalism
- The trend of luxury being defined and exported from the east to the west (and not vice versa)
- Brands will increasingly be focused on knowledge and less on hard costs
- Greatest growth areas will be in:
1. Health & Well Being
2. Leisure
3. New lives for "new old"
4. Tech (Duh)
5. Personal info. Management

Following the reception I slipped over to an SBS seminar rm where our team (group work consists of 6 person teams) was busy working on our final submission for financial reporting. I worked on my section while sipping a glass of red wine(pretty posh right?). "Just another typical night in Oxford", I thought.

Ch 26: My Billion Dollar Dinner

2006-11-20T19:55:00.000Z

Nov. 19, 2006

No it wasn't anything expensive. It was in fact free. Which is to say that the returns were infinite. I just had a great meal at Oriel College with a very privilidged set of guests. A set of guests that had been collectively responsible for billions of dollars worth of wealth/value creation and investments. I mean these were people with their own legitimate Wikipedia articles!
The event was a pre-dinner for Silicon Valley day here in Oxford. The guests were phenomenal. I had the privaledge of sitting next to the founder of linkedin.com Reid Hoffman. It was an awesome opportunity to speak to and bounce my ideas off of one of the internets great minds (he's also an Oxford grad). Across from me was the head of Oriel College Derek Morris.<-I wasn't kidding Wikipedia approved.
A number of other guests were present but the entire event did two things for me. Firstly it reiterated by beliefs that I was getting a world class experience on top of an education here at Oxford. Secondly, and more importantly to me it has given me a boost in both my energy and confidence that the direction I have set for my life is the right one for me. Just another day at the dream factory.

Ch 25: A Unique Place in the World

2006-11-04T22:25:00.000Z

Tonight was the Pembroke College MCR (Middle Common Room- a social gathering place for graduate students) Michaelmas dinner. The night was kicked off with Champaign in the reception hall in typical Oxford fashion. The meal itself had additional servicing of white wine, red wine, followed by a port (see where this is going?).

I learned a new word and Oxford tradition that night. It's called scouncing; a tradition here that demands that a person drink a tankard of ale or some other alcoholic beverage as a penalty for some breach of accepted etiquette. Quite a way to get a party hoppin'.

"How wonderful" I thought. "I learn something new here every day".

Ch 24: Dawn of Dreams

2006-11-04T22:15:00.000Z

"How fortunate am I?"

That's something I often think about in the mornings when I wake up. I live and study within a nexus of dreams. That's why people do MBAs is it not? Every MBA here has a dream for there future which they are working toward everyday (maybe not as much on weekends and pub nights but almost everday...).

Everyday I get to witness the progress, interplay, and evolution of 223 individual dreams. It's one of the most fascinating experiences in the world. I know because I am a collector of experiences- a number of which can be defined as "fascinating" =) But dreams can be fleating and this is only a one year program, a drop in time. So I also have to tell myself to pay attention to my surroundings, enjoy the moment, help those around me, keep learning, and keep growing.

After all, everyone has dreams.

However, some dreams fade into memory... While others become lost with the passing of time... But every once in a while a little magic happens and a dream today that's been given the proper nourishment, blossoms into tomorrow's reality.

Ch 23: Overcoming Obstacles

2006-11-04T22:09:00.000Z

I am finally settled into Oxford after a little trouble in getting here and a lot of trouble in finding a place to call home. But those obstacles are behind me now and I feel fortunate to have both found a great place to live (just down the street from the Said Business School, and to be living in a great place (Oxford is awesome- A great place to study... an equally great place to have fun).

Funny thing about Obstacles, they can really get you down from time to time. But I suppose life would get pretty boring without them. Everyone needs a little challenge now and then.

A long time ago a friend of mine told me that the more you challenge yourself the more your boundaries grow. And the more your boundaries grow the more capable you become. I would suppose then, that obstacles are just natures "accidential challenges".

Ch 22: More to Come...

2006-10-15T14:39:00.000+01:00

It has been a month since I've posted. And what a month is has been. Chapters will be added on:
-Traveling through England
-Oxford the Unusual
-Oxford Rocks
-The Guts of the Oxford MBA program
-Random Thoughts and Observations

All is well. I've moved in and settled down. I learn more every day (from my class mates, this most unusual but special place, and yeah the actual classes here). For now I have to get back to the library but more will be coming very shortly I promise!

Ch 21: Lucky like a Pigeon

2006-09-18T21:01:00.000+01:00

September 16-18. I'm off to England! A new period in my life. A time of discovery. A time to learn. A time for the worst string of luck I've ever experienced.

A recap:
-I just about pack my lifes belongings into two 50 pound bags (the international limit) and two 20 pound carry ons (my own limits). Feeling good about it.#
-Day of my flight, Delta Air calls and tells me my flight to Atlanta (TO CONNECT TO LONDON)has been changed to an earlier time. Rush to the airport.#
-Find out they booked me onto a United flight. OK, no biggie.
-Flight is delayed 30 minutes, then 1 hour, then two, then three.
-On the phone for two hours with Delta and United to book me on another flight to make it to England in time. Nothing. They keep telling me what should they do - like i'm the pro at fixing their problems =p
-Take flight to Atlanta, too late of an arrival for my connection. Land.
-I call and book myself the next earliest flight out of Atlanta to London.
-I confirm with the lady at the counter who assures me that my bags are garanteed to be on board with me the next day.
-Land in London, wait for bags, mind wanders into dark areas - "could they really have messed up my bags as well?" Bingo, they did. No bags.
-Call around for my bags, no go.
-Check my email, Bam! I no longer have an apartment after a mix up / confusion between the agent and one of my (now will no longer be) roomates. #
-I take the train to the bus station. Bam! I'm somehow selected for anti-terror inspections. Random they say? The only non brit to walk out of the underground? 30 minutes of searching my bags and me.
-Sit at the bus station to pick up my tickets. Bam! I have a confirmation but the payment did not go through. Wait around to buy another ticket.

A SCRAPPY LOOKING PIGEON WALKS UP TO ME AND LOOKS AT ME.

-I laugh to myself. I should be recording this.

Ch 20: A Summer Break

2006-07-01T03:54:00.000+01:00

With my decision made and a job that I left last week my sights are squarely set on having an awesome summer. And where will I start? Why, backpacking through China of couse. Visions of dreaming spires will have to wait until September.

Ch 19: Why Oxford?

2006-06-15T21:12:00.000+01:00

So Why Oxford? It's all about "fit".

Oxford is a good "fit" for what I want out of my B-school experience. Firstly, my main areas of focus are innovation and entrepreneurship. Oxford has the programs, classes, and professors that cater to these areas of focus. Being a 10 year old program is not a detriment for SBS but in many ways is actually beneficial. New ideas and an entrepreneurial spirit thrive in such an environment. The school itself is an entrepreneurial venture and there are many programs to support student initiated projects throughout the school year.

Secondly, I wanted an international experience that would be shared with students from diverse backgrounds- with discussions that are not completed dominated by one or two cultures. With 48 countries represented in the 2006 crop and a class size that is well suited to getting to know others (240) Oxford has just the level of diversity I am looking for. Is there a better "lab" to prepare for the world of tomorrow?

Lastly, I wanted to be part of an established brand name with global appeal. The Oxford brand is world renown and one that will aid me in my future ventures. I was born in Asia, grew up in North America and now find myself at the doorsteps of the oldest English university in the world. There are many decisions in life where one can be left second guessing. This is not one of them. It just feels right. Oxford is the place where I can bring it all together and best prepare myself for the next chapter in my life.

Ch 18: The Decision

2006-05-17T22:13:00.000+01:00

It's been a while since I've posted. Much has happened including my MBA decision. So where will I be spending my quality time starting this fall?. Both Cambridge and Oxford are awesome programs that I am confident will only get better as the schools mature (they are both young). I would be happy either way. However I can only be in one place at a time. Such is life.

and that place is...

SBS!

Ch 17: The Official Cambridge Tour

2006-03-13T19:41:00.000Z

After our day of speaking to current students and professors we headed out in the afternoon for a Judge sponsored tour of Cambridge. Cambridge does not have a main "campus". There are 31 distinct colleges each with 200-1000 students. The University buildings are dispersed throughout the town of Cambridge in a cluster close to the colleges. It's quite unique.
Our tour guide was a nice British lady who knew here way around the place. Some fun facts about students at Cambridge:
1. They use to climb the chapels (which are huge) for fun (used to as this is now outlawed)
2. They like practical jokes (there are too many to write up)
3. They have a good sense of humor (although it's British humor which can come across as dry for most Americans)
At the end of the tour a few of us stopped off at the Eagle a pub famous for being a stomping ground for US and British service men during the 2nd world war. More great room temperature British Beer and my first Guiness from the UK. Good stuff. Had a chat with the lot, Yeo Whee Jim, Adrian Cander, Neil Ghosh, Svetlana Novoseltseva, and Hideko Sugimoto (see pretty diverse right?). They are all good people and I will email them to link everyone together electronically. You never know where everyone will end up but good people you keep in touch with.

Ch 16: Judge Business School (JBS) Second Impressions

2006-03-13T19:25:00.000Z

My day started with a traditional english breakfast (sausage,bacon,eggs,toast, with optional beans). Pretty good, very American. I was over by the Judge building by 8:45am. There were 20 or so other potential students from all over the world. I'm impressed by the Diversity. After talking to a few I felt that they would be good people to go to school with as well. Very nice with different professional backgrounds. The school also rebranded itself from an Institute to the Judge Business School in Q4 2005. A good move on the marketing front. And doesn't JBS just sound nice?
The building itself is quite nice on the inside, it's got a lot of open space, lighting, and room for students to work/hang out.

The lecture halls have good outside lighting as well which is rare. Their are currently 106 students with plans for about 120 students in the upcoming class. We also learned more about Cambridge and the program and the city. Cambridge has 120,000 full time residents including students. The town is small enough where most things are never more then 10 minutes bike ride away. And people do bike, everyone actually. Probably more then Oxford where both bikes and buses are common. Judge also incorporates close to 70 undergraduates and 100 PHD candidates (almost as much as the MBA program) all under one roof. Classes however are separate. The building itself is 24 hours which is a bonus over SBS which closes at 11pm. The building is mostly wifi enabled (hey my house in VA and my apartment in NY are, any BSchool better damn well be). There is a two week orientation as well which is good to get to know your fellow classmates.
The alumni base is world wide and I am told that it does help to get your foot in the door. This is logical to me as any good brand name school should. I just wouldn't rely (or want to) on any more then that but isn't that what most people ask for? Just a chance? An opportunity?

Ch 15: Who has 6 Toes?

2006-03-13T19:14:00.000Z

I walked by the Graduate pub last night 3/12/06 along Chesterton Street to see if I could grab some of that famous British Pub food along with a few beers (at room temperature of course). To my dismay they didn't serve food after 8pm. To satisfy my curiosity for British food I went by a nearby quicky mart and bought everything that looked foreign to me.< insert pic > Hm.. Ostrich jerky is good.
It was a slow Sunday night so I turned on the tub to take in the British Culture. There was a whole show similar to a tabloid only focused on "exposing" celebrities without their "swap". What is swap you might ask? Good question, its defined as the make up, digital effects, and perfect photo opts that Celebs depend on to look great. This show was horrendously revealing in their exposure of celebrities. It made everyone look horrible (mostly women without their make up). They also showed before and after digital photo effects. Why do this? I think that people don't want their celebrities to be perfect or at least to be perfect for too long. The cycle is like this:
1. Build Up
2. Worship - then feel bad about yourself to the point of jealousy
3. Tear Down
4. Ridicule - to make yourself feel better

Rinse and repeat. That seems to be the pattern. I wonder if it's just a western culture thing (in UK and America) or if it's like this in Asia as well now? Anyhow, the shocker of the evening- Halle Berry has 6 left toes... Count 'em.

Ch 15: Judge Business School First Impressions

2006-03-12T18:25:00.000Z

As I walked down Trumpington Street I came upon a building that really stuck out. I read the name on the building and it looked to be a Nursing School of some sort. There was a tree planted outside in 1998 commemorating the 50th year anniversary of the building. This couldn't be the Business School I thought. Other things that stuck out included the large submarine style windows and the colors. Oh the colors- if the palace of Caesar were in modern day Miami I would imagine the color scheme to be not one bit different .

I kept walking down the street in search for the school. I could have sworn it was in this area. As I was passing by the front of the strange building I noticed a gated entrance and a sign above me that read "The Judge Institute of Management". Cool, I thought, can't wait for the official tour in the morning.

Ch 14: Cambridge by Foot

2006-03-12T18:04:00.000Z

The first thing I took note of upon leaving the Hamilton Hotel was how far I was from the Judge Business School. Over 1 mile to be more exact. But it was a good walk. I walked along Chesterton Road and took a southern route on Victoria Avenue cutting west through Jesus Green, yes THAT Jesus. There's a lot of christian religious references in the colleges and grounds of both Oxford and Cambridge. I was told however that there is a rule against forcing anyone to practice something they were not comfortable with. Does this really need a law?
Anyhow I decided to keep walking through Jesus green instead of taking the main road next to it (Jesus Lane- which is also connected to Christ's pieces and "Butt Green"). My journey led me north across another Magdalene street and corresponding Magdalene street bridge.

Which brings up a good point. Cambridge was founded by scholars and monks who were driven out by the townies in Oxford over 700 years ago. They apparently set up a mirror university with corresponding colleges and streets. Cambridge IS the town here so I suppose they found their home.
A walk up Castle Hill (the site of a very important ancient military stronghold from 2000 years ago I'm told) gave me a fantastic view of the University.
The architecture in Cambridge is strikingly diverse with a mix of ancient and modern. I really like that. Contrast is good in my book.

Ch 12: Shipwrecked

2006-03-12T17:36:00.000Z

I arrived in Cambridge this morning 3/12/06 after a 3 hour bus ride from Oxford.

After checking into the Hamilton Hotel I unpacked and turned on the tube to relax. As it happened to be the show that was on was called "Shipwrecked: Battle of the Islands". I thought it to be nothing more then another Survivor type show. A few minutes into it I got the point. Two teams on nearby islands compete for "castaways" to join their tribes.
Both are tropical sunny islands in the same vicinity. Each tribe would try to convince the castaways to stay by showing him/her the merits of their island (which were almost identical) but more importantly the merits of the tribes themselves- their personalities and overall likability.

Additional factors the castaways would consider included how organized the tribes were, how they got along with one another, and what roles the castaway would have if he/she were to join them. I thought this was very interesting. Two islands in the sea, almost identical. How is a castaway to choose the right one?

Ch 11: Warm Beer & Midnight Chicken

2006-03-12T17:07:00.000Z

I had dinner with Roy during my final evening in Oxford. It was actually at a place across the street from where I was staying- the White House. The food was quite good, or maybe it was my expectations from what I had heard before about British Food. But quite good. The Beer was much better. The beer I had was London's Finest. It was served at room temperature, which in my opinion really brings out the taste. It made me wonder how my American beers would taste at home (or what the freezing temperatures they are served at is hiding)?
Afterwards we stopped by Mike's pad which is rather nice and very good accommodations for any student.
After some beers and "crisps" Roy and I walked back to the other side of the tracks. We stopped by the Kebob stand in front of my hotel. I ordered a chicken kebob as I did not want to risk the digestive wrath of the lamb. While waiting we started chatting with two Oxford residents who lived and worked in the area. Two conclusions were reached from our discussion.
1.) The English Empire will not exist in 100 years. Instead they will go down in history as the inventors of the universal language who explored every corner of the world in order to add "better" words (and more words) into their vocabulary. They said it not me.
2.) Brits have a very high opinion of American Business and American MBA programs as a result. They asked why I would choose to go to school in the UK and not the U.S. I have my reasons as I have stated before so I gave them REASON #1: Diversity. But my definition of diversity may be different then others. To me getting the most out of diversity is not bringing 35 nationalities together so that everyone can learn the American Way (which works quite well, and I do love living there I have to say). To me it's about learning what the other 34 nationalities have to say, gaining an understanding of their cultures, and working to find the "best" way. I believe that in ten years the largest software companies in the world will be Indian and the largest manufacturing companies will be Chinese. The world is getting flatter by the day. Plus I feel that a foreign environment will get me out of my comfort zone and into a more open state for learning from others. That's just me. I want an MBA experience and corresponding student body mix that best prepares me for the world of today and tomorrow.

Ch 10: Signs- Of the Times and The Biggest Mystery

2006-03-11T17:52:00.000Z

Of the Times:
Check out these signs.

I like to think that they are advice or rather warnings for Oxford University Students.

The Biggest Mystery:
I don't get the names of British pubs. The formula seems to be "Noun & Noun". And anything goes.

The Eagle and Child however I've read was frequented often by both CS Lewis (Narnia) and JRR Tolkien.
Pretty cool.

"A" Lee out.

Ch 9: Oxford by foot

2006-03-11T17:36:00.000Z

I decided to skip the official tour groups and buses and give myself a tour of the University on foot. I've never liked organized tour groups. Except when they give you access to other wise unopen areas I much prefer to read about places, find which ones interest me, and chart my own course. Walking through Oxford was no different.
I noticed something this morning. The color of the SBS building is very similar to the older university buildings. I don't think this is a mistake. You can be the newest branch of the English world's oldest university but fitting in is still important.
I started my day off with good English food. That would be the Chinese restaurant across from SBS. My stroll took me in a figure eight loop starting with the north side of the main university streets. The sights of the older colleges reminded me very much of the University of Chicago. The difference is that Chicago tries to look old(with much success in my opinion), Oxford IS old.
I skipped the Oxford Story which is a Disneyland type ride that explains Oxford's founding. Have I mentioned how crowded the main streets are today (Saturday)? Oxford is also very much a haven for Tourists . History and a Strong Brand can do that for you I suppose.
Walking through the place gave me a good sense of how easy it was to navigate through the town. I kept walking. From the Bridge of Sighs, down New College Lane, through the courtyard of Magdalen , across the fields of Merton , and across the gates of Christ Church College I walked, and walked some more. Taking it all in.

Ch 8: The Morning After

2006-03-11T17:31:00.000Z

I did it. After 36 hours of no winks I went to bed. Sleep came quick and hard. 12 hours worth actually. That's enough for two days. My body has a way of catching up with me. I hope it's this cooperative in the future.

Ch 7: Diversity and Drinking (do mix)

2006-03-11T16:58:00.000Z

I met up with Mike and a few other SBS students (many actually) for their weekly MBA friday night happy hours. Free wine and beer. Makes for a good start for any MBAs weekend. I also met up with Roy Kuo an SBS 2005 grad who was working in the area part time for a Hedge Fund while studying for his CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) level 3s. Roy is a friend of Eric Wang, a buddy of mine from my days at the University of Chicago. This meeting was expected however as Roy had been answering my MBA questions over email the last couple of days. Roy was cool guy and you could tell he enjoyed spending time with current MBA class. It's always good to have happy alumni regardless of where your coming from.
The event itself was great as I got to witness how truly diverse the student body was. I met students from over a dozen countries (the school claims 40+ nationalities on their 2006 roster) all pursuing their MBA dreams. I think diversity is important and not just for sake of differences. It's important to truly gain an undertanding and appreciation of cultures outside of your own.
As I mentioned before it's a small world and it's flat. The business world is same way. Businesses are created and run by people. Businesses now draw talent from every area of the globe. Teams will always outperform individuals and most work is now done in teams. These teams are more diverse then ever. In my opinion you need to get along with others and understand them as people to get the most out of your personal and professional relationships. With rosters that read off like a meeting at the U.N., Business Schools are a great place to do this. You may not work with 40 nationalities when you come out but its always good to know where people are coming from. It's a personal effort really but if the karaoke and "team drinking" are any indication, the students here really get along just fine.

P.S. Had dinner and more drinks afterwards. Still zero winks in over 30 hours. When will this catch up to me?

Ch 6: An Unexpected Meeting

2006-03-11T16:49:00.000Z

The world is small and flat. You never know who you'll run into on any given day really and today 3/10/06 was one of them. As I was walking out of the SBS building and reading a paper posted on one of the walls I heard a voice that sounded familiar. I turned around and saw the back of a head. Now there's something about some people's heads that you can tell who they are just by their silhouette. Think Alfred Hitcock or Batman. This head and associated voice could only belong to one man. I turned and walked over see no other then my friend Michael Lee chatting with a few other students.
Wow, I thought this was the last place I expected to see anyone I knew, especially anyone I had not seen or kept in touch with for a while. Mike was probably just as surprised to see me walking around. We chatted for a while about his experience. It was good to hear straight talk from someone I knew on the "inside".

Ch 5: The Said Business School & Marketing 101

2006-03-11T16:34:00.000Z

After checking into the West Gate Bed and Breakfast I laid down to catch some Zs. Half an hour later the Z meter was still at zero. I had a meeting coming up at 1pm with Sally a representative from the school. Off I went, hoping to myself that I did not appear too tired or uninterested. My mind was not in a good state and my goal for the next couple of hours was to stay awake.
Sally gave me a pleasant tour of the building which was located on the West end of the school right across from the train tracks. The building itself was built in 2001 and the newness of it stilled showed. The rooms and lecture halls had an "Ikea" feel of efficient simplicity. In the current year there are at any time up to 225 MBA hopefuls roaming the halls.
In the afternoon at 1:30pm I attended a two hour lecture on Marketing by professor Holt a notable Prof I was told from the US with connections to both Harvard and Chicago. I didn't have to remind myself at all to stay awake, the class was great. We started with a review of the materials from the previous week followed up by case study on BioPure a supplier of donor blood for accident victims. I did not read the case study, knew nothing of the subject but halfway through the discussion decided to open my mouth anyway. Fortunately my comments were not too far out of the park. When I'm engaged I'm awake so that was a big benefit for me as well. I had not introduced myself at this point. One of the students next to me commented that maybe I was a student who was enrolled but decided to skip all the first 15 classes and attend the very last class to get notes before the final exams. "Hm..." I thought. If only I were that cool.

Ch 4: Polite to a Fault?

2006-03-11T16:24:00.000Z

I've never stepped foot onto England as an adult. I didn't really know what to expect. They speak English (you might even say they had a hand in inventing it), but it ain't American English ya'll know what I'm say'n?

I caught the "coach" from Heathrow to Oxford, a 1 1/4 hour ride for 17 Pounds! 1 Pound is roughly 1.8 dollars. That's quite a sum for a bus ride where I'm from.

On the bus there was a lady speaking in a regular "NY lady on the bus on her cell phone voice and volume". Nothing I'm not used to and I didn't particularly notice. Apparently the bus driver took offence to her volume. At first he was visibly annoyed looking back with fierce glances. After a while he took up the mike on board and announced "To the Lady on her mobile, please lower your voice a bit, no need to shout!". After which the entire back of the bus even clapped! I thought it was rather strange to call someone out like that. Mental note, the Brits take their manners (and those of others) seriously =)

Ch 3: Virgin

2006-03-11T16:11:00.000Z

What a better way to get to the UK then flying there on a UK original Virgin Atlantic? I booked a red eye overnight from New York to the UK Wed night to arrive the morning of 3/10/06. Virgin differentiates themselves from other airlines through a number of tactics which include 1.) being cool and trending 2.) using up to date tech (you can txt message other passengers from any seat, and there is a huge library of videos/movies on demand) 3.)great/friendly service. I would say that they delivered on the above for the most part. Even the passengers were nice (I had a good chat with my seat neighbor Barbara who was the casting Director from Sex in the City). The only part that really bothered me was the actual flight itself.
I've taken overnight flights before and I've always been able to catch a few winks. This time the wink meter read "0" upon my arrival in London the next morning. Why? Was I caught up in the coolness of the flight attendants? Did I stay up watching a few of the over 40 on demand movies? Was I too stuffed from the two meals they served us within 4 hours? Nope, absolutely none of the above. For some reason my seat was too warm (hot I would say). I like sleeping in cool places. Needless to say I was not in a great physical state. So how long would I last until I keeled over in slumber? Read on!

Ch 2: Let's Go: England

2006-03-11T16:04:00.000Z

This weekend from March 10th Friday to March 13 Tuesday I will be visiting two prospective MBA programs. The University of Oxford Said Business School (SBS) and the University of Cambridge Judge School of Business. Why am I looking at the UK when the U.S. is flush with Big Money Business Schools? Well I have my reasons and I will go into them later =). I want to capture my experiences now as I am reflecting on my last two days from an Internet Cafe on the campus of Oxford.

Ch 1: Decisions (Part 1)

2006-03-07T01:40:00.000Z

Hi, my name is Ashton Lee and I am about to embark on a journey that will ultimately lead to decisions being made that will ultimately lead to major changes my life.

It is a decision that has required me to thoroughly think about my past experiences, my present endeavors and the dreams I have for my future.

I am going for my MBA.