Top Ten Darden Memories

The last three years has been an amazing experience and Chapter 3 of my life is officially closed. My last day at the Darden School of Business, where I spent three years working in the Career Development Center and Admissions, was yesterday. My colleagues and friends gathered for a swell going away bash and I had the opportunity to tell them how much the community became my family. The quantity of people who became inspirations, mentors, and friends is unbelievable and I look back with nothing but positive admiration. While there are many great memories, here are some of my favorites.

1) Trivia Nights with Rachel, Kristen, Sarah, and Arielle. These were my first friends at Darden and we spent many nights at Mellow Mushroom Pizza and McGrady's Irish Pub participating in weekly trivia.

2) Trips to Boston and Keystone Resort, Colorado for the MBA Career Services Council Conference. On both occasions, I met a bunch of people, spent time with friends, and participated in fun events. I have fond memories of cruising on the Boston Harbor, eating at the Barking Crab, teaching colleagues how to swing a rope (yes, it's a hidden life skill), and breathing in the mountain air while participating in a poolside Yoga class.

3) International Food Festival. For the price of a good meal in Charlottesville, I filled up on delicious food prepared by our International Students (and Texans).  Some of my favorite dishes? Brazilian Empanadas, Israeli Pitas, Indian Dal, and French Crepes.

4) Iron Chef Judging. Whenever there is promise of good food, I am there! This past spring I was asked to be a judge during Darden Iron Chef, secret ingredient: beets! The goat cheese and beet risotto blew me away and I went back for thirds of this delightful dish.

5) Orientation Week. This may sound crazye but I absolutely LOVED the first day of school (even though it was the initial wave in the fall tsunami). Summer time was always lonely for me because I missed the student's energy and spirit, and I counted the days until the community was buzzing with activity.

6) Darden Book Club. Last year, I was invited by my friend Sarah to join a ladies book club. We met at lunch in one of the beautiful gardens to discuss life's struggles and opportunities, good books, and Darden happenings. It was always a highlight.

7) Day of Caring and Building Goodness in April. Service to the community is something that has always been an integral part of my life. I was so fortunate to serve with colleagues to beautify gardens, deliver meals, sort clothing, and create cookie mixes for the Boys & Girls Club. BGiA is a student-driven service project where I assisted in building a playground and renovating homes.

8) Staff Council. I was so fortunate to be elected by my peers to serve. I enjoyed our monthly meetings (I have never had so much fun in meetings), hosting the annual Cinco de Mayo party, and being a strong advocate for the staff members.

9) Darden Days. Even before I started working in Admissions, this was my favorite day of the year. Blake and I met some of our very closest friends at this annual spring yield event. Every year, I would wake up early anticipating all of the new relationships I would build and look forward to spending the evening at beautiful King Family Vineyards. Blake is already asking if we are still invited next spring.

10) Dancing with the Darden Stars. This event was the highlight of my Darden career (and it was also the scariest). The thought of dancing in front of hundreds of people was terrifying but I look back with only happiness and fond memories.

Wow, what a phenomenal experience. I cannot believe this was my first job out of college and how much I grew from the love and support of my colleagues, friends, and students. Thank you to all!