Friday, July 31, 2009

Swedish Fish

Today we were sitting in the cafeteria thinking about whether to get Swedish Fish or not and it made me realize how close we’ve become at SHM in such a small amount of time. For starters I USE TO HATE HATE HATE Swedish Fish, and now me and Sam have to buy two different packs (because we’re fat) but if you look at the timeline:

1) Sams buys fish
2) Sam eats fish
3) Sam offers fish to Emily
4) Emily Declines
5) Times 3 and 4 by 4 weeks…
6) Emily Accepts fish
7) Sam shares bag with Emily
8) Emily starts mooching off sam (day after day)
9) Emily finally realizes that Swedish Fish are her new favorite candy
10) Leading me back to today- two bags of fish.

I know this seems ridiculous- but I find it hilarious and realize the value of this story. Every day we all really rub off on each other- if someone is having a good day we are all in a generally good mood, if someone is upset we all feel bad. We’ve become a great support team and I find myself realizing that our machine is becoming better oiled than in the past. Work wise we are all generally there to help each other but we’re at the point where we don’t necessarily need each other as much.. YET, still going with my rubbing off on each other theme I’ve never said the word “Holler” so much..(thanks sam) or had as much honesty from someone (thanks I think Victoria?) haha I realize that I will never get excel if you are out vlam ..in which case I would be doing a spreadsheet for hours if it wasn’t for your awesome alt 99990000 tricks?! I think that the most important aspect to this whole thought is really about decision making and how we affect each other’s decisions. I feel that we all make up about 4 parts to a brain that we call EMSAVINA perhaps? Lately we’ve been on the same page and it’s really been making these days a lot easier! Soooo thanks everyone =)

Relaxation

Nature is the ultimate healer.

Nature is the ultimate healer.

There is nothing more profound, mysterious, relaxing, nurturing and wonderful. Taking a walk, the smell of plants, hearing the sound of water, wind on your face, looking at the sky.

What is amazing is how we as humans are inescapabily at nature's mercy; for when the earth shakes, the water roars, the fire rages and the winds hurl, we can simply do nothing. At the same time, nature is the ultimate protector; blessing us daily with water, sun and food.

I went a little off, but that is my ode. I'm quite passionate about it.

Other things I do to relax:
-Music: a deep love for music, it's almost as beautiful as nature.
-Draw: I am in a zone.
-Pray
-Some type of water related activity

This is late, but I like the question.

Franchise

I think that applying a franchise strengthens a company tremendously. It contributes to making company's vision and and company's image more uniform. I think it clarifies/ focuses what SHM stands for, for the target audience. It also expands the abilities in communicating with other businesses and vendors, In a way, SHm and its products are a whole buch of products contained at the bottom of the pyramid (literally, not fig) , and now with housing the products in fewer sects, you move to the top of the pyramid to a more uniform structure. I think the franchise approach is great---not only does it strengthen and increase importance to the SHM brand to all employees, but to all others outside of the company.

Reality Check?

No, thanks.

Most of my friends are F/W co-op cycle, and it will be their first one this coming season. They asked me what it was like, how prepared I was, and questions of the sort. Honestly, I felt like interviews were the most nerve-wracking part of the whole process; having to wait for requests and decisions was extremely stressful. But I was describing SHM to my friends, and afterwards I thought to myself... "Is this an accurate description of most co-ops?" They believed it is not...

But that's what I love about this place! So many things are "out of the ordinary." (No, not just the personalities. Haha, joking.) But SHM really takes the time to care about each and every individual. All the MAs hung out at Meredith's before the BBQ and we talked about this specifically too. All five of us are really lucky to be somewhere that not only can we learn about Marketing and GD, but we can also develop ourselves to become well-rounded. In only 6 months, I feel like I've gotten a real snapshot of what the "real world" is like. We witnessed the chaos and stress of a big annual event, saw people come, saw some unfortunately leave, found solutions to mistakes, owned those mistakes, and then got the opportunity to own work we are proud of on a daily basis.

So many people I know do nothing besides homework and leisure reading on their job. Those people are counting down the days until they head back to school. I'm glad that I am kept busy and got a chance to learn the things I had hoped to learn.

P.S. As of 3 minutes ago, I will have some funny pictures to post next week.

A New Friend..

I am going to use this post as a place to inform you of a little girl I met last weekend.

A few weeks ago, my lacrosse team was paired up with a little girl through a foundation called "Friends of Jaclyn". She is 2 and a half years old, and suffers from a very rare, nasty brain tumor. Surgery is not an option, and she has been fighting this cancer for the past few months. After hearing her story, I became attached, and think of her as my own little sister now. Last weekend, my coach, four teammates, and myself went to the hospital to see her. She is the most adorable girl I have ever met, and her parents are some of the most sincere, wonderful people I have ever met. It is crazy to think that a girl, so young, is so much stronger than most people ever will be. Every day is an ongoing battle, that I know she is going to conquer.

Her parents have a website, and write journal entires all the time. There is also a guest book that people sign every day, giving the family their prayers and thoughts. If you could take some time out of your day to check her out, and possibly give a few kind words, that would be great. I was talking to the parents and they say that hearing all the kind words from people in the family, to people they have never met - truly do help them and allow them to keep believing and fighting.

Her story has made me so much stronger, because I used to complain every day about my stupid knee, and when I hurt myself - I literally thought it was the worst day of my life. Now, I realize how stupid I was being, and just when you think life can't be any worse - it can. I think that is a good lesson for everyone to know.

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maggiemedvitz

End of July...

TGIF, everyone. I for one, am exhausted. Three exams in one week later and I am ready for this weekend so I can have some fun and catch up on some sleep. Yesterday, I was diagnosed with a case of dehydration. I've been outside a lot with walking between classes and to/from work. The humidity is miserable, and yesterday I was having horrible dizzy spells. I just want everyone to remember, less caffeine and alcohol, more water! I don't want anyone fainting.

As for this coming week's question (post by 8/7):

A lot of times, people lose track of projects, especially if they are not particularly interested in it. People will work harder on another task rather than working equally hard at both.
If you were to see a project falling behind or a co-worker having trouble staying focused, what would you do to motivate them?

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Attempt in Relating to Marketing :|

From attending the Franchise Model presentation and talking to the MA’s, I have generated an idea of what I think a Franchise Model is and why it is needed. The key goals seem to be structure and strengthening the brand. This is a great move for SHM towards its piling success!

This can apply to me in the future during my practice as a health professional. If I am ever head of a care team at a hospital, I can use the franchise approach on a small scale to enhance my own little organization. I would basically follow the franchise approach that SHM is implementing, on a much smaller scale.

The main challenge I feel that I would encounter is lack of cooperation due to the busy hospital setting. Health professionals already have so much on their plate, I feel that they would fall behind in the areas they are responsible for or not be able to attend meetings. Another challenge we might encounter could be lack of recognition, due to the organization’s size. Compared to the hospital itself, it would be quite small and our goals/accomplishments are less likely to be acknowledged.

Anyways, I am proud of this new step that SHM is taking and I am sure that there are more surprises to come :)

Friday, July 24, 2009

I'm not very good at coming up with titles...

When I first heard that SHM was changing structure to a "franchise approach", I was very confused and did not understand the change. Then after the presentation, it finally started to click, and I actually understand what is going on now! It makes complete sense. When the department is broken down the way it is in the franchise model, the structure is more clear. Also, I think it is important to have the franchise owners, because it allows everyone to know who the main reference is for each product. With Emsavina, I agree with what Victoria said. I think we should have broken it down more, where Victoria was in charge of the questionnaire, Emily timeline, myself and the core values, and etc. That would have made it more structured, and allowed for the rest of M&M to have one point of contact if they had a specific questions.

Whenever something new is created, there is always going to be challenges. I think the biggest challenging is accepting and keeping the model in effect. There are so many times in my life where I begin to do something new, and at first it is great, but over time I tend to go back to my old ways. I hope this doesn't happen with the franchise model, but I think it is something that we need to realize is a risk - and we can't let it happen. Other than that, I think the model will be beneficial and as long as things go as planned and people accept the new ways, SHM is going to be just fine!

PS - everyone is missed today!

Check Check Check.

Where is everybody? Surprisingly today there is no full timers besides Vernita!! (who is awesome and got us the best pizza ever :) also good call on Gustos MERRRR)...

This morning was confusing and the first thing I thought was: “Sweet I don’t have to do anything today!” And then I realized during membership time that I still had a whole bunch of stuff to do and that even though no one is around, on Monday how many people are going to ask me about something and my answer would be “Oh I didn’t finish it yet..” I was talking to Victoria at lunch and we were saying how we got so much done and the day wasn’t even over. We agreed that it is easier to get things done sometimes when no one is on top of you asking about it.. I think today we both have been very relaxed and productive! It brings me to the core value Own your work. I think that being here for four months or so now it’s really hard not to do or not want to do your work because you know the repercussions. This is why We are a family is a core value as well. I think the two are directly correlated and is a main reason of why our department works well. I feel like today is going so well and I have really caught up on a lot of things that have been lingering!

Friday's Fun Fact

Today is a pretty quiet day at work... (Thanks for coming, Vernita.) Well, Fun fact of today: On this day in 1823, slavery was abolished in Chile. In comparison, slavery in the United States lasted until 1865 - when the Thirteenth Amendment was passed.

Moving on... In regards to Meredith's question this week, I think there were ways that Emsavina could have been approached differently. For exmaple, in BUSN102, we had a project called Mike's Bikes, which was a business simulation. Every group had approximately five members, and each member was given a "title," (i.e. CEO, CFO, COO, CMO, etc.) which became their main role in the project. I feel like everyone sort of has their unofficial role in Emsavina (on the Responsibility Sheet handed out), but that little scenario would have been interesting... For the most part, we make all our projects a 100% collaborative effort. I think when an organization becomes larger and more products and businesses are added, a franchise approach definitely makes sense. I recently joined an organization at school called the Drexel Entrepreneruship Association, and we are currently restructuring it. This includes core goals and product owners... quite similar to SHM's, which I thought was interesting. There are definitely challenges in members recognizing these changes and having prospective members become aware of these changes. With the help of our VP of Marketing and a lot of teamwork, we plan on expanding our network and having a diverse group of students come together. Here's some exciting news... Emily Woods plans on joining! Jump on the wagon, Sam and Meredith.

Happy weekend, everyone! :)

Pizza is here.

On Wednesday, we had an all-staff meeting. Kari, Ashley and I presented the Franchise Model to everyone at SHM. There were about 25 or 30 people in attendance. Let's back up a little bit.

I am not the best presenter in the world. I really have to know what I'm talking about to be able to stand up in front of a room full of people and not turn bright red. This has always been the case, and I also used to stutter and my voice would sound shaky. Ever since group projects in college, I have slowly improved my public speaking skills, but they still aren't up to par.

Back to Wednesday, I had a small, relatively easy part of the presentation. I had to explain the process of picking product teams and then I had to read off names. Kari helped calm my nerves by telling me that nobody would be paying attention by then, especially since they'll just be looking for their names to see what team they were on. This helped.

I'm not going to lie, while I was talking, my vision went a bit blurry so that I couldn't see faces clearly. Oddly, I think that helped my case. I am pretty sure at some point I stumbled over a word and I started to turn red. I hate the feeling of my cheeks getting hot.

Regardless, I got through my part and after the meeting, I was congratulated by numerous people about the good job I had done. Part of me feels like I was congratulated because they know how self conscious I am about my public speaking skills, but part of me feels like I did a genuinely good job.

It went really well, the feedback made me feel really great about myself and I'm pretty happy about it.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Run Forest Run..

After a long day at work, I can always count on a nap to make me happy. However, like Emily, I do tend to go to the gym after work. Now that I am starting to do sprints and agility with my rehab, I get really excited, and just envision myself out on the lax field again! Every day is another step towards being healthy again. The gym was like high school, if you will. When I was in high school, all I wanted to do was get out. Now that I am graduated, I would do anything to go back. Likewise, I hated working out for "fun" a few months ago, but once I got hurt, I would do anything to get back to the gym. Since I was unable to do it for so long, it is so exciting, and it really makes me happy when I get a faster time on my runs, because being hurt and getting back in shape is the WORST THING EVER. So now that I have been on the other side of the fence, and know what it feels like to be unactive for 4 months, I have realized that running and working out truly are some of my favorite things to do.

A New Approach

Natasha and Sam - Get those answers in by Friday.
In the mean time, here is your next question to ponder and respond to.

Using the Franchise Model as a guideline, as well as feedback you've heard from others around the organization, please answer the following question:

Coming from the perspective of the Emsavina consulting group, how would you shift an organization from their current structure to a franchise approach? Where do you think the challenges would be, and how would you plan on overcoming those challenges?

Monday, July 20, 2009

Retail Therapy...

...is called that for a reason. If I'm ever in a bad mood or had a long day, the one thing that can instantly cheer me up is shopping. Most of the time it doesn't matter what I'm shopping for, just being in a store surrounded by so many pretty things brightens my day. Most of time I want to be somewhere that I can afford, so I can go home and enjoy it. But once in a while, standing in the middle of Bloomingdales or Henri Bendel or an overpriced boutique and admiring things is just as amazing. It's not secret I've been a long-time fan of fashion, and it goes beyond just buying things because they look nice. Knowing the stories behind things is what really makes me loyal to a brand. But as the saying goes... nothing good lasts forever. After a while, I realize I am completely broke and can't afford to go to the grocery store or pay for textbooks (especially if it's an especially hard phase in life). Then I am no longer in a good mood... It's a vicious cycle.

I'd like to leave you with some quotes from Confessions of a Shopaholic (not that I am one...).

"When I shop, the world gets better, and the world is better, but then it's not, and I need to do it again."

"If a man doesn't fit, you can't exchange him seven days later for a gorgeous cashmere sweater. And a store always smells good. A store can awaken a lust for things you never even knew you needed. And when your fingers first grasp those shiny, new bags... oh yes."

- Rebecca Bloomwood

Post Dragon Wagon Adventures..

Happy Moon Day Everyone!! On this day way back in 1969 ..Armstrong and Aldrin landed on moon- goodtimes.

HAHA Reshma, I love food I do the same thing... Yet the one thing I can always count on to distress me after work is physical activity. Recently on Monday and Thursday I love going to yoga after work. There is something about the stretch I get and the complete relaxation you can obtain during a good yoga class. I think that the teacher at Drexel is better than any other yoga place I’ve ever been to- so you guys should all come with me one day after work and give it a try!! Also, I love to relax right after work and just hang out in my apartment until its cool enough to go for a run. I think we’re so lucky to live so close to the art museum and bike path. It really is one of my favorite things to do- there is just so many beautiful things to look at and take in on an evening jog, not to mention places along the path to just sit, stretch, or people watch (also another of my favorite pass times..) I love being able to just get out and move after a stressful day because I just feel free and accomplished, plus it’s summer and I need to get outside as much as possible these days!!

Sitting, Food, TV

When I come home from a long and sometimes stressful day, I want to unwind by piling a whole bunch of food on a plate, sitting on my futon, and watching TV (Gossip Girl would be ideal). I think that is the best thing ever! I love food, I love sitting (only on my futon b/c its so comfy), and I love Gossip Girl!! Either that show or a nice long romantic movie. Pshh who needs drinking :) If any of my roomates are in the apartment, I will also have a nice chat with them. This does not include any serious, in-depth conversations! What does everyone do? It could be more exciting than my thing lol.

P.S. I have never heard of peach ice cream! Sounds.. interesting.

Friday, July 17, 2009

Today is National Peach Ice Cream Day

As we complete our personal dashboards today:

What is the one thing that always helps you unwind from a stressful day at work and why do you always go back to doing that one activity?
(And no, your answer cannot be drinking) :)

Happy Friday!

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Oh Change..

When a friend comes to me with a problem, resulting from change, I comfort them (at first). But when they continuously approach me with the same problem, I simply tell them, “That’s life, deal with it!. For some, change is difficult to overcome and adapt to. Personally, change is very difficult at first; however, I learn to deal with it. I have always been okay with learning to deal with things because I know that sooner or later, I have to get over it! Lol.

Recently, some of my good friends have graduated and have continued their lives as working adults. Although they will be missed, a lesson is being taught at the same time. Life requires everyone to move on, grow, and develop. This type of change in transition from being in school and learning to working and learning is a huge, but necessary step. Having these friends leave is sad; however, the lessons that this change teaches are important. Change must be dealt with and sometimes even appreciated. Overall, I feel that change is ultimately a good thing, as it provides a good learning experience.

Pretty soon, I will be back in classes. This is an amazing co-op, so it’s really gonna suck. Oh well, that’s life :)

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

The Winds of Change...

My personal mantra is: Live and let live. Like Emily, I also believe that everything happens for a reason. Kinda like... everyone has their own path or plans, and we all just meet somewhere along the way. Metaphorically, change is little obstacles on the way. Sometimes, it's harder to "go with the flow," but eventually, it's something that we all have to learn how to do to keep moving on. Even though I'm pretty uptight about a lot of things (in case you haven't noticed...), change is something that I tend to deal with quite well (in my opinion). I think it's because I get bored pretty easily... I love to experience and learn new things. I like to switch up my personal style, buy something I would never wear and work it into my existing wardrobe, redecorate my room, start new projects, try new restaurants, travel to new places... you get the point. New things are just more waaaaay more exciting. That's why I'm glad I get to be a part of a lot of new things at SHM: exhibits plans, YouTube, and especially the new branding process. Speaking of which... I've got to do do a little research for that. Bye now!

For the Love of Change

For me I love change. I think I have mild ADD sometimes because I get bored really fast. For example, I change my room around every two months almost (my Mom use to get really mad at this- but it’s cool now that I don’t live at home! Haha) This is just a small example but honestly I think I’m the type of person that deals with change pretty easily. If there is one thing my mom has drilled into my head is- everything happens for a reason. Most of the time when the change occurs you can’t always see the good that will come of it or reasons why but eventually you will. Dealing with change I think there’s really no difference in the work place or personally, (for me) I think that I will react however I’m feeling at the time, whether it be sooner or later.. act on that and then accept it. There are usually a few steps that can vary from that but that is normal procedure I think for me. There have been so many changes in my life that by now I expect change more so now than I have in the past- but that just comes with age. I think that because of these changes I can say and agree with Meredith that life would be boring without them and you would miss out on many experiences and opportunities!

Friday, July 10, 2009

Guess who's back, back again...

...Meredith's back, tell a friend.

Hello everyone! I decided to come back to SHM part time until September when I can work full time for my third and final co-op. I'll be around on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. I guess Todd explained most of this already.

Anyway - Here is everyone's blog question.

Change is not always interpreted as a good thing. Outsiders can view it as scary, upsetting and they can be unwilling to face the challenge that often helps them in the long run. In reality, change can and most often is very difficult. Although it is difficult, it is a great learning experience and without change, the world would be a pretty boring place.
How do you deal with change, either in the workplace or personally?
Cab Drivers & Disney

So, I have had plenty of conversations with cab drivers about the fee. They hate it. I can understand why. I do think that it is a P. I. T. A. (hint first word PAIN) when a small cab ride takes damn near half of the charge by using a card. Most cab rides are short, so keep ones handy. Technology, so sickening how people are so reliant upon it! I don't care how many plastic cards you keep, it is very wise to keep somewhere in the 10 dollar range in cash with you at all times. I suggest one five, and five ones. Things like laundry, homeless people, cab rides, or simply when you are dying of thirst, need a bottle of water and the convenience store has a five dollar card minimum. Hello!

My favorite Disney movie is Alaaaaaaadin.

Honorable Mention:

Beauty and the Beast
Lil' Mermaid

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Livin' off "the Fatta the Land"

I agree with what everyone is saying because all the points you gals are hitting are all very true. One thing I would like to add is how many free cab rides I’ve gotten in the past due to only carrying a card and a cab driver not wanting to lose money on the ride. I think we should all take a look at this situation for a chance to go green and walk instead! Or perhaps even just utilize the “Dragon Wagon” more. Haha but on a serious note- Goofy is a human dog because he talks and Pluto doesn’t!!- The Goofy Movie might have been one of my favorite movies around seventh grade or so?? BUT, my all time favorite Disney movie is definitely The Little Mermaid, classic. (Aladdin has a close second Reshma). Vickyx3 get ready for Monday’s test A+ here we come, Sam good luck on Friday- I’ll miss you next week.. You can read my blogs to see how we’re doing here without you!

Welcome Back Meredith

An old friend has come back to SHM...Meredith Myers, a former MA is back in the role of Senior MA. She'll be here M-T-W through the start of the next co-op term, and then back as a full time co-op in September.

Meredith will be working with Ashley and Kari as they go into the home stretch of bringing their new approach for the marketing function to the whole office later this month. She'll also be working with Nadia and Heather, so that when the time is upon us and Heather has sold her house, we'll all be ready for the transition.

The one thing of note is that Meredith will take over the "chief sherpa" role here on Collective Reality...don't worry, you'll still be hearing from me from time to time. Meredith is just able to relate to all of your experiences even more so than I can...

Stay tuned for her first post, later this week.

Todd

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Blahhhhhhhh..

Vickyx3, I understand that they lose money from the credit cards, but why offer it if you are going to get mad? What if I walked around with a sign that said "free puppies". Then someone came up and asked for one, and I got mad when I gave them one... just doesn't make sense right? I think that people need to realize its the 21st century, and that is that. Also, especially in Philadelphia - I NEVER carry cash on me because I could get mugged, who knows. I guess I should be nice and ask if they accept credit cards, but I don't.... because I know they do. It's a really sensitive subject that has bothered me since my arrival into Philadelphia last year. So Ms. Lam, if I'm ever in a cab with you again.. don't be embarassed when I get angry with their huffing and puffing at my use of a credit card.

Goofy is my fav character! I think he is a dog, even though Pluto is a dog. Goofy is so cool, he can be anything he wants.

Cab Issue

I do agree with Sam that it is frustrating when cab drivers turn down debit/credit cards. However, from hearing Victoria's explanation, I feel that I would do the same if I were a cab driver. It is the cab company, not the driver, which feels the need to accommodate to the needs of today by keeping a credit card machine. I would not argue if drivers only accepted cash. However, if the drivers inform us after the ride, and we do not have cash on us, then they should still be willing to accept the cash. That’s my thought.

As for Goofy, he is for sure a dog! Perhaps a human mutated into a dog? A few decades ago, he was actually given the name "Dippy Dawg". He does have a normal dog named Pluto who runs around on four legs and barks, so he definitely can’t be only a dog. And my favorite Disney movie is Alladin, hands down. What about everyone else?

Monday, July 6, 2009

My Mother Used to Say...

Well, my mom works at TD Bank, and I always ask her a lot of financial questions because I don't know the first things about finance. (Woo, FIN301 is a blast...) So once I asked her why some places don't accept credit cards; it made no sense to me. She explained that when vendors accept credit, they lose a small percentage to credit companies. For taxi drivers, fares are often less than $10, which is not an unreasonable amount of cash, and losing a percentage of that may not be worth it to them. Running into the same problem as GreenEyesxBabyy, I have learned my lesson: to ask cab drivers if they accept credit/debit before getting in and upsetting them.

If Mickey's a Mouse and Donald's a Duck, Goofy is a Dog. Right? Man, I miss Disney movies. Alice in Wonderland is my favorite! What is everyone else's?

Saturday, July 4, 2009

Happy 4th

Hi Everyone...

For this week's post, I'd like you to reflect on Sam's post in which she wondered why cab drivers take issue with the credit card machines in their cars. There's an interesting lesson here.

I'd also like you to answer the question...

"If Mickey's a Mouse and Donald's a Duck, What's Goofy"

Have Fun

Todd

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

It's Almost The 4th of July!...

So, as I sit at the front desk and listen to everyone talk during the birthday celebration, I decided I would start a blog post! The fourth of July is approaching, and I can not wait! I love bbqs and going to the beach and being with my family, it's probably one of my favorite holidays. I plan on going and seeing lots of fireworks over the weekend too, since we don't have work on Friday, I don't know how I will fill my day. :) All I know is I can't wait to relax.

Also, today Emily, Vickyx3 and myself went to get ritas and pretzels for the birthday celebration and then took a cab ride home. I really do not understand why the cab drivers get so mad when you use credit cards. It is not the 1900's anymore, and everyone uses them. They always give me such an attitude, and it drives me nuts. Am I the only one who feels that way. Don't have the tool available if you don't want people to use it. I don't know, maybe I am crazy but it just doesn't make sense to me.

Buh bye now.....