This week, I am gearing the devotional specifically toward the first year students, though hopefully there is value to be gleaned for everyone. Without further adieu, I present my biblically-rooted tips for surviving at Darden.
- Observe the sabbath... Deuteronomy 5:12
The biggest temptation you'll face at Darden will be to work too hard. The truth is that there is ALWAYS more to do: more analysis on a case, more social events to attend, more tweaking that can be done on your resume and more networking calls to make. My Sabbath manifested itself in two ways last year: I went to bed by midnight, even if there was more case work to do; and I took Saturdays off during the first three quarters (switched to Sunday after LT ended). The Sabbath may look different for everyone, whether it's taking a break to go for a run or setting aside time to read your Bible. Whatever it is that recharges you, though, make sure to do it! I promise; it will make the rest of your time more productive.
- I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made... Psalm 139:14
My first few months at Darden were incredibly humbling. I was suddenly not the smartest person in the room, I struggled through recruiting, and it took a while to find my grounding in the classroom. Worship services on Sunday morning at church became absolutely vital to me. I stood with a congregation of people singing songs about how awesome God is, and that gave me the perspective that I needed to realize that it's not about me, it's about bringing glory to Him. And beyond that, I needed to remind myself that no matter where I fall on the spectrum - whether I'm the most capable or the least - God created me in my own special way to be used as He chooses for His glory.
- If one falls down, his friend can help him up... Ecclesiastes 4:10
One of the greatest blessings during my first year at Darden was having a friend who shared my faith. Our friendship was one of mutual encouragement and sacrifice and kept me going on days when I didn't feel like reading another LO case or submitting yet another cover letter. I encourage you to seek out close friendships at Darden, and know that the best kind of friendships are the ones that you pour into. I know this sounds like something you need to learn at kindergarten and not the start of your MBA, but I can't emphasize how important it is to develop mutually encouraging relationships. Ultimately, I hope that DCF can provide a forum for you to do that, and encourage you to reach out if you ever need anything.
Anyway, those are my first year survival tips. Hope you enjoy this well-earned weekend!
