A year ago today, I was working in Toronto at the Canadian Opera Company. I was ramping up for another season of presenting world-class opera, but knew I was ready for something else. Six months later I was secretly studying for the GMAT and reading everything I could find online about successfully getting into business school. A month ago I arrived in Vancouver after an incredible drive across the country with my boyfriend. This morning we woke up in our first apartment together and spent the day merging our respective spatulas, towels, and dishware.

Since I’ve been in Vancouver I’ve completed three weeks of “MBA Prep”, an intensive series of refresher courses which were a good introduction to being back in school. After that was one week of “MBA Orientation”, which introduced us to Sauder and many of the different themes and subjects we’ll be tackling over the next 16 months.

It’s basically been a whirlwind of changes. I’ve been challenged personally (moving four times since I’ve been here) and academically (how do I find a derivative again?). It seems, however, that the challenges have only just begun since a good deal of time has been spent advising our class how to handle stress and how to lead a balanced life.

I’m definitely up for the challenge. I’m hopeful that this will be a transformative experience. Just imagine where I could be next month, next year, or 5 years from now.

Tonight I’m in Kits, with my eyes wide open, taking it all in and excited for what’s next!