New York City: Reflection

A week has passed, and here we are back in beloved Chicago. Yet, I'd be lying if I didn't admit to a longing for our recent stint in the Big Apple: those mornings at Carnegie Diner, savoring coffee and croissants, the tranquil strolls through Central Park, our post-site-visit .05 selfies, indulging in $0.99 pizza, and immersing ourselves in the vibrant energy of Times Square, courtesy of our hotel's bustling locale. Initially drawn to Quinlan Ramble by the enticing subject line "New York City" in my Outlook, little did I know that the true magic lay not only in the destination but in the remarkable individuals who shared the journey with me – both past and present ramblers alike.

 

The camaraderie forged during this trip and the bonds formed have left a mark on me, as have the invaluable encounters with alumni and the profound insights gained into various career paths. At the onset of this semester, I found myself grappling with uncertainty and overwhelmed by the daunting task of charting my career trajectory. However, thanks to the guidance provided by the Ramble experience, both prior to and during the trip, gradually, I gained more clarity on where I see myself in the future. Engaging with professionals who embody the very aspirations I hold for my future was illuminating, yet equally invaluable was the exposure to paths divergent from my own.

 

These encounters served as valuable reminders, reaffirming the importance of aligning my career choices with my goals and passions. Among the various events, the alumni networking reception held on Tuesday night stands out as a personal highlight. Here, I had the privilege of connecting with alumni entrenched in diverse fields, from CNN to ad agencies, private equity firms to luxury brand management. Hearing of alumni seamlessly applying their academic pursuits to their professional endeavors, not being afraid to take leaps of faith and pivot, and just loving their jobs was both inspiring and reassuring. Additionally, I can't forget to mention how exciting it was to spend a week in the heart of NYC. The city's unparalleled fashion scene, the picturesque strolls through its iconic streets, and the ceaseless energy pulsating through its veins made this undoubtedly the highlight of my college spring break experiences thus far. Reflecting on it now, I couldn't be happier that I seized the opportunity to embark on this unforgettable journey and I would encourage anyone thinking of applying to ABSOLUTELY DO IT!!