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Early Friday, we all woke up, dressed in our nice clothes, dropped the kids off at daycare and then set off on our long drive across the widespread suburbs of Chicago to Naperville. Steve's parents had fun riding in our Acura. We swung by McDonald's for a filling breakfast and made it to Northwestern's campus with plenty of time to find a parking spot. The early morning was muggy, overcast and windy. Steve joined up with his classmates around 8am to put on their robes and line up. Meanwhile, Alina escorted Steve's parents around South Campus on a short tour.
The graduation was held in Lutkin Hall. During the tour, Alina and Steve's parents strolled through the sorority quads, pausing to imagine the scene with students sprawled on the grassy lawns. They crossed Sheridan and posed under the arch for a photo. Then walked up to the Rock, looked at University Hall, Kresge, the Library and the out beyond Norris to view Lake Michigan. The wind was so brisk; lots of whitecaps dotted the water. After pausing near the south end of the lakefill to see the city skyline, Alina and Steve's parents headed back to Lutkin to take their seats and watch the graduation ceremony.
Steve had a huge smile on his face as he proceeded into the audtorium among his classmates. We listened to a few speakers before watching Steve step across the stage to shake hands with the Dead of the Communication School and officially graduate!
After the ceremony, we all stepped outside to enjoy a yummy buffet of hors d'oerves, desserts and cocktails. Unfortunately, the rain was pouring down heavily so we stayed under a tent. However the tent was cozy, the cocktails were free and food was delicious! Steve introduced us to a few of his classmates. We sidestepped the mud puddles (Elliott would have been in heaven!)
After wrapping up, we drove through the rain back home. Steve's parents treated us to a late lunch at the White Chocolate Grill. We had a great time relaxing over our food and lingering at the table before picking up the kids. Once the kids arrived home the graduation celebration continued with a delicious cake! Elliott was convinced we were celebrating a birthday (possibly his??!). Ha ha! The kids definitely got into the spirit of the day with lots of smiles and hugs for Daddy.
Not many people can work 10-12 hour days, care for a new baby, toddler and wife and complete a master's degree at the same time. "How does he do it?" one might ask... well, here's an interview with our esteemed graduate:
What did you study? The [URL="http://www.communication.northwestern.edu/programs/ms_communication/%22]Masters of Science in Communication[/URL](MSC) Program at Northwestern University.
As some of us have described it to our various employers, the MSC-Managerial program is not unlike a qualitative MBA. It more focused on the "soft skills" that allow you to effectively communicate in the business environment.
What was your favorite class and why?
Considering that the coursework covered everything from "Globalization" to "Organizational Behavior" to "Bargaining and Negotiation", I would have to say that the class I enjoyed the most was the final Master's Project. While not a class, strictly speaking, it did allow us to work in teams and apply the various tools we learned over the course of the two-year program. This was a wonderful experience for all of us, being able to work as consultants to help real companies solve real problems. I got to spend 10 weeks working for McDonald's USA; the project, my team, and the experience were phenomenal.
How often did you have class?
Class was held once a week, on alternating Fridays and Saturdays. 4 hours in the morning, then 4 hours in the afternoon. This worked out well, considering it was a 1.5-2 hour drive, one-way, for me to get to Evanston from our house. I logged a lot of miles over the course of this program.
How many books did you read?
I lost count, but if you figure we averaged 2 books per course it adds up quickly. The record holder for assigned readings belongs to Dilip, whose 2 Globalization courses had a combined total of about 20 books to read.
Did you get good grades?
I suppose you could say that. While final grades hve not been posted, through Winter quarter I had a 3.97 cum. The point however was not of the grade, but the experience.
How did you balance work/school/family?
Very carefully.
Would you recommend the MSC Program to others? Why?
Absolutely. The tools and subject matter are invaluable for those in leadership roles or those who aspire to leadership positions. I would encourage anyone who was interested to join the long purple line of MSC graduates.
Congratulations, Steve!!
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