This discussion forum has two parts. When it comes to life outside of school, most of us have an authentic self (who we are with friends and family) and a professional self (who we are at work or when we are trying to impress others). In this forum, I’d like you to show us both sides of your personality.

Part A: Informal Introduction

For Part A, tell us a little about your hobbies, family life, favorite TV shows or movies, or hopes/worries for the future. Please do not feel obligated to share anything that might make you uncomfortable, but do make this part of your introduction reflect your authentic self.

Part B: Elevator Speech

For Part B, write an elevator speech. An elevator speech is a roughly 30-45 second introduction that you could share riding in an elevator with a fellow professional you want to impress. The idea is that you should always be ready with a brief synopsis of yourself if you were to run into your hero (like Dan Gilbert, Warren Buffet, or anyone who might give you a chance at more success than you could dream of). Here’s a great little video on how to set up your elevator speech.

Discussion Forum Instructions:

Introductory posts should be thoughtful yet conversational. They should typically be between 200-250 words.

Response posts should also be thoughtful and conversational. Basic/simple replies that do not contribute feedback or new ideas to the conversation will not be counted. Responses should ideally be a minimum of 50 words.

All conversations should be respectful. Profanity (swearing), hate speech, and close-minded attitudes are not permitted in our discussion forums. If you see anything inappropriate in a discussion forum, please bring it to my attention right away via email.