IMD MBA Partners 2010

CONGRATULATIONS! Parabéns! Felicitaciones! BRAVO!!

2010-09-21T13:12:00.000-07:00

Today, our sweet partner Nicole, was accepted into the IMD Class of 2011. We are so proud of her and thrilled for her upcoming whirlwind of a year! Even after seeing all that the students have gone through, she still decided to go through the rigorous process of applying and interviewing. Today, she was accepted. None of us had any doubts what the results would be when she told us she was applying- IMD would be a fool to not take her. With brains, ambition, and a big heart who could say no! Today we lose a partner but gain a student!

We look forward to welcoming Jonatas into the IMD Partner family! ;)

BRAVO!
xo

Partner of the week: Gregory

2010-05-01T06:50:00.000-07:00

A pensive and comically well-read guy

Age: 25

Born: Lyon, France

Partner: Cecilia Clement

Occupation: Student in Law in Paris,

Comes as often as possible in Lausanne

Favorite song : Showbiz, Muse

NY : How did you react when you found out that Cecila was accepted at IMD?

GB I was happy for her. It was not a surprise. She prepared for two MBAs during one year, so I had time to prepare myself for it.

NY : Is it difficult to live in Paris and have her here ?

GB : Yes. She's not alone because she share's your flat (Nicki's) but it's difficult to be in different places. In Paris, I only study and work and that's all. We used to live together last year. I miss her presence. Last year, I took some breaks to share time with her, for dinner for instance when she came home. And this year, I just work, take 20 minutes to eat and go back working. It's not the same routine.

NY :So this year you're a more productive student ?

GB : I don't know (laugh)

NY : How did you meet ?

GB : We met almost 4 years ago in Tunisia when we went both went there for scuba-diving. It was the first time for me, but not for her. I wanted to do something different for the summer. We didn't dive in the same group, but we met after the diving.

NY : What do you want to do after your law studies ?

GB : I don't really know. I don't want to specialize now. I want to learn something more general. I'd like to choose something different from my two previous year, like International Relations.

NY : How do you see yourself in 5 years ?

GB : I want to have a foreign experience, to really learn English. I hope I will have finished my studies by then... And still be with Cecilia :)

NY : What do you like doing in your freetime ?

GB : I used to play tennis with friends in Paris. I really like comics, French and Belgium ones. I like History, so historical comics are my favorite, like Le Trône d'Argile, or XIII, Largo Winch. I really like movies, too. The last movie I watched Green Zone with Matt Damon, Black Hawk Down and Full Metal Jacket. I like good war movies. But I also like Sunshine. I really like the setting and the soundtracks of this movie. I also like cooking or baking, because it's relaxing.

NY : Do you like Lausanne ?

GB : Actually I don't really know it. I spend a lot of my time in my room studying. Before Paris, I lived in St Etienne, which is also a small city. But when you live in a big city, such as Paris, I think it's difficult to go back to a smaller one. So I don't think I would like to live here.

NY : Tell us about your past in the army

GB : I was in the infantry for almost 5 and a half years. I was in France a lot of the time and the Ivory Coast and Germany for some trainings. After high school, I didn't want to choose a kind of study by default. I didn't know what I wanted to do. I've always been interested in the army and the values they represenent for me, like discipline and patriotism. I love my country, so it was one of my motivations. I had a good image of the army, that's why I joined. I learnt a lot about myself, but also about others, about human relationships, and gained a new perspective. But at the end of my contract, I chose not to continue.

NY : 3 words to describe yourself or 2?

GB : I want to say before, that I don't like these kind of questions... But if I have to give an answer...Demanding...I do not know the word, but I like to challenge people's thinking.

NY :If you could have a dinner with a celebrity, dead or alive...

GB : I think it would be historical figures... Famous men that built our world, like Napoleon, Alexander the Great and Cyrus the Great, for instance... It would be interesting to see what they think of our world today.

NY : A place you really like, or would like to see, in the world...

GB : I'd like to go to Maldives to dive... I really like Sicily. It's a beautiful country, people are very kind. You have very good food; it's always summer !

Partner of the Week: Jenny

2010-04-23T05:59:00.000-07:00

At first glance, a cute and shy woman who reveals herself as fun, outgoing and insightful!

Hometown: Seoul, Korea
Age: 26
Partner: Harvey, married in December 2009
How they met: She met him in Beijing where she studied Chinese for 1 year and then worked in HR for several years after.
Arrived in Lausanne 3 weeks ago and is studying French
YN: Favorite song:
J: If I ain't got you- Alicia Keys, Do I have to sing ??? :)

YN: What did you think when you found out Harvey got accepted?
J: He didn't tell me he was applying to IMD. I was totally surprised when he told me he was accepted. We were considering mariage, but not then, because we were living in China, and we didn't get the chance to meet each other parents and family. Harvey is older than me (6 years), I'm still young and I wanted to marry him but at the time I thought in 1 or 2 years, after we settle down. But after he got accepted, we went for vacation in Sanya, an Island in the very north of China, where he proposed. He gave me a marriage ring.

YN:Where did you get married?
J: In Korea. We did a wedding ceremony in a hotel, and invited a lot of people, 500 invited, including my friends, but most of them were friends of my fathers.

YN: Marriage is different in Korea ?
J: In Korea, marriage is totally diferent from western countries. We can't just think about us. We have to think about the family. How my family will think about my husband. Usually we meet with family to introduce each other and learn about the family background, it's very important. For us, it was a really short amount of time. My parents couldn't take care of Harvey very much, because he had to fly to Switzerland.

Before the wedding, the bride's side gives some money to the groom's side, for wedding ceremonies. How much depends on the level of the family. It signifies that I have become a member of their family. It's like a present. And the groom's side buys you colthes, jewelry, -that's the most important :) - and a bag -very nice, so I chose a Louis Vuitton. My mother-in-law took me to the store and said « you can choose whatever you want ! ». Then the bride's side buys a suit and a watch for the groom. We open together all these presents during a dinner.

YN: Is it different to live in Seoul compared to Beijing?
J: If I worked in Korea, it would be really tough. Most of Koreans work very hard until very late, but in Beijing, I can enjoy my life. Work 8 hours a day, until 5:30pm, with no overtime. I have many Chinese friends. After work, I went to workout. I did Bikram yoga, swimming, and during winter snowboarding. I really enjoyed the life in Beijing, because I could have so much time for myself.

YN: Would you like to go back ?
J: If I could, yes. I speak fluent Chinese, so does my husband. The cost of living is lower than Korea. With the same amount of money, I can enjoy more. Go to fancy restaurants. And there's a lot of holidays. Over 30 days a year. Because it's a big country. It takes time for people to go back to their native home, by train or bus.

YN: And what about Lausanne ?
J: I think I can't stay here. I don't think there's a night life. The shops close very early. After school, I just go home and read books, or do housework. But I'm getting used to it. Before I came, I researched Lausanne, so I knew it was not polluted, very calm, quiet. Around 6 or 7pm, there's no one in the streets. In Korea, stores and bars are 24 hours but... there is pollution !

YN: Something you miss about China?
J: I miss Chinese food a lot... I'm like addicted to it... It's spicy and cheap... I don't cook at home because I don't have the ingredients. I don't like cooking. I prefer to go outside. My husband used to cook for me and now he says I didn't know you could cook... Surprise ! I'm really doing my best... Cooking... Cleaning... Housewife...We are not used to that ! We are not professional ... not yet ;-)

YN: How would you describe yourself in three words?
J: Humorous... But sometimes it's difficult to tell jokes in a non native language...In French and English that doesn't work... Cute... Passionate...I enjoy challenges...

YN: Your biggest challenge or desire this year:
J: Learning French and traveling. This is my first time to Europe. I've been to London for my Easter holidays. So if I can, I want to travel all of Europe, maybe for summer vacation and after graduation with my husband to Paris, Italy... I also like my PDE session. In Korea it's unusual and only for people who have mental problems. But for me it's a very interesting field. I'm really expecting to learn about myself and I want to know more about myself!

A Partner's Perspective

2010-03-20T03:17:00.000-07:00

My name is Camille. I have 3 kids ( 4.5 - 3 - 1 years old ) and am a 2010 MBA Partner.

The first thing, and I think the most critical, is that WE decided to do an MBA ! I am really proud of my husband and I know that, to be happy, he needs me and the children to be happy as well.

WE HAVE A GREAT PARTNERS GROUP

At home, it is not really a "great, fun" life ... house cleaning, cooking, making sure he has everything ... I think that all partners spend a lot of time alone at home, especially in the evening ! BUT we have a really great partner group !!! We organize a lot of things : Friday lunch, movies at IMD, night outs, baby-sittings, trips to Vevey, Geneve, Evian, Gym Class, Yoga class, playdate with children, language classes ...and people are really helpful !

But all those things fill one day per week, maybe two but clearly not enough for a full week ... We are not on vacation and, anyway, vacation without our partner is not really fun !!! So I try to be busy every days ... park, friends, sport ...

IMD IS LIKE A FAMILY

Our partners work a lot ... they can be free a few hours per week-end but it is not all the time ... I think it depends on your husband and on his working team ! Everytime I go to IMD on Sunday (at 9am...4pm...10pm ...), people are working ... and it is actually the same every day! But IMD is like a family and everyone takes care of every one ! Partners, students, teachers ...

I try to organize dinner, restaurants on Saturday evenings ... to be there when he is at home ... to be free when he has time, when he needs to talk ...It is really difficult but he enjoys everything at IMD and I know that, in a few months, our "family life " will be back !!!

SET GOALS FOR YOURSELF

Another really important part is you need a goal for your year : learn French, English ... run 20km of Lausanne, find a job ... you need to have one to grow in parallel of your partner: with 3 kids, I am enrolled in a photography class and am looking to start a child psychology program (I am a primary school teacher)!

I am still alive and not planning to get divorced !!! So it is not TOO bad of a year ;)

Overall, it is a tough year, but a very rich year: you make so many new friends from all over the world and get to grow a lot yourself!

Partner of the Week: Nicole Martins

2010-03-18T04:52:00.000-07:00

Brazilian Idol

Name: Nicole Martins
Age: 26
Parner: Jonatas Melo
Hometown: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Born and always lived there.
Degree: Studied Economics (Bachelor). This year, studying marketing.
Career: 5 years at Exon. Then worked for one year luxury holding that owns fashion brands last year
Favorite song: "From This Moment" Shania Twain

Y&N: What is it your favorite song ?
NM: A song that always come to my mind...like when I'm washing the dishes, ironing, just walking by myself... It comes...When I was younger, I loved music. I had singing classes. I used to play in a group. There is this program in Brazil like American Idol (Fama) and there was a casting in Rio. And I said, « ok i'll got there, and let's see if i can sing someting ».We went by car with my best friend. And we decided for this song. I didn't know the lyrics by heart, so I put the CD on in the car, and while drinving to this place, we were singing the song without stopping, on repeat. Over and over again. When I arrived, the guitarist was not there anymore, so I couldn't record. I was so upset. But, it was a fun experience and I think that's why it comes to my mind all the time.

Y&N: You would have liked to have been a singer?
NM: No. I had some obstacles. I didn't have the support. I criticized myself too much. But I love dancing as well, and some times I dream of being on Broadway and dancing and singing at the same time.

Y&N: Tell us about your passion for dance...
NM: I've been dancing since I was 4 years old. I did classic ballet, jazz, modern, tap, hiphop and also lambada, a specific Brazilian dance. I used to go to contests, and I had this great costume to dance lambada. My favorite style of dance would be Broadway: when we have the music and the dances.

Y&N: Do you have any regrets ?
NM: We always wonder what would happen if we had done something different. But I've made choices, and I have to keep my choices. Maybe, one thing I would have done is study architecture, instead of economics, because I have this artistic side and I love math, as well. But, maybe when I get older, I'll study a little bit.

Y&N: A favorite city...
NM: I love Barcelona. But I think each place has its unique architecture and I enjoy each... going to Paris and walking along the street is excellent. Being here in Switzerland is interesting, as well...Spain, of course. Brazil, the architecture there is too messy. They don't have a style. I want to go to Asia to check it out.

Y&N: Do you prefer the city or the country ?
NM: Both. I like to be in a city with natural spaces. Like parks so I can be in contact with nature. Also the city, because I like to do things. I like to go out, and have everything close by.

Y&N: How did you react when Jonatas got accepted into IMD?
NM: I followed him from the begining. It wasn't a bad surprise. I got really excited. In 2008, we came to Europe, to get to know the schools and to know the cities that helped him to make a decision. At the same time, it's difficult to leave your job and your life, but I think it's so worthy and I'm so happy to be here and having this international experience.

Y&N: What were your expectations ?
NM: As I knew Lausanne before, I'd say that my expectations are exactly what we are having now. I thought I would find a job, besides the course. I see that it's really difficult for Brazilians to find work here. And I'm now wondering if maybe I should volunteer or do research part time... because i want to spend time in Lausanne. I think this is the expectation that was not met. But, Lausanne is a really a lovely city. Small, but you have things to do, it's not boring. I really enjoy the group, i'm happy to know so many people from all over the world. Everyone is so nice.

Y&N: Favorite place in Lausanne...
NM: I really like Nomade . I'd like to go back there and just have some wine. And Starbucks too. I like to go there listen to some music, and have a coffee. And the lake... Just walking by the lake is fine...

Y&N: Something different or strange about Switzerland?
NM: For the environnment, I' d say that the lake, the mountain, the water, and the green park is exactly what we have in Rio... not the same but it's the same atmosphere. People are nice, but I'd say that we are more polite. When you're going inside the lift, we ususally wait for the people who are arrived first, to go inside first, and then we go and before that we wait for the people inside to get out. And here they don't seem to wait too much. They just go bumping into you inside the lift. This is something that annoys me a little bit.

Y&N: Where do you see yourself next year or in 5 years ?
NM: I'm just reflecting on it. Next year, i don't have a crystal ball to figure it out, but... I see myself in 5 years professionally succeeding, with kids -probably 2 or 3- (my husband is looking at me saying more).
I will be happy with my family in a beautiful house.

Y&N: Where ?
NM: I don't know. Anywhere, where I could be happy with the place and have a garden. I like gardens, although I tried to plant sometimes, but they just die so I try to talk to them.

Y&N: Yourself in 3 words ?
NM: Romantic, committed, and I like to help people...

Y&N: If you could have dinner with anyone, celebrity, dead, alive, etc, who would it be?
NM: I think it would be nice to have everybody that I know and like together...

Y&N: Favorite movie ?
NM: I love Disney. I'd say my favorite ever is « Beauty and the Beast ». I could see it repeatdly. I know the songs, I like to sing the songs. I also love Gladiator, I like these kind of historic movies.

Y&N: A place in Brazil to visit...
NM: Rio for sure... A beautiful city... although it's a litlle bit dangerous. If you know where to go, there are so many beautiful places. It's wonderful. Also the northeast of Brazil is like a paradise. If you want to relax and forget all the troubles and energize yourself... go there !
Sao Paulo too is a nice city... For dinner, the restaurants here are amazing. You can find any food you want in the best restaurants there.

In Rio

Y&N: Favorite food ?
NM: I like fechuada. With dark beans and meat. Very heavy. After that, you will feel very sleepy. We used to eat it during the weekend. It's good.

Fechuada

Y&N: What do you miss in Rio ?
NM: I miss a lot the japanese restaurant in front of our apartment. We used to go there with Jonatas, and it was very good. I miss our apartment, we had our video games, -I'm a Mario addict-, our DVDs, our great balcony where we used to have lunch during the weekend together, listening to some music.

Their apartment in Rio

Y&N: Portuguese ?
NM: "Carpe Diem...Nós temos que viver o presente porque ele é único. Mas também temos que sonhar e lutar pelos nossos sonhos."

Y&N: You speak a lot of languages...
NM: I love studying languages. And I think I'll be like 100 years old studying a new language, maybe esperanto or something like this. Each one has something that attracts me: Spanish is happy...French is romantic...English is universal...Portuguese is my mother tongue...what makes me feel comfortable...German is a challenge... That's it !

Y&N: French ?
NM: Je suis très heureuse d'être ici, d'avoir cette expérience et d'avoir connu tout le monde qu'il y a ici...

Partner of the Week: Lety Silva

2010-02-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Mexican Mommy !

Name: Lety Silva

Age: 30 years

Partner: Jorge Rodela

Born: in Monterrey (northern Mexico). Lived in Poland, UK for 2 years, Spain where her 2 girls were born.

Children: Paulina (2.5 years) and Monica (10 months).

Favorite song: Amazed by Lonestar. This is the song we danced at our wedding. At my gradiuaton party, Jorge sang this song to me while we danced and i said this is the song i want for my wedding with him.

Y&N: How did you react when you learn Jorge was accepted to IMD ?

LS: First of all, it was a surprise. He got the call on his birthday, it was his best present ever! I was really happy and proud because it's not easy to get in. At the same time, I was also nervous. I didn't know what to expect of Lausanne. How will it be with 2 children, almost on my own? I was a little bit afraid, but today I'm relieved.

Y&N: Do you feel European after living in Poland, UK, Spain and now Switzerland?

LS: No, I'm REALLY Mexican !!! and I'm really proud of it. I really like the lifestyle here in Europe. The views, the chance to walk everywhere. In Mexico, you go everywhere in the car. You spend a lot of time in the car, but here you can walk everywhere.The public transportation is amazing.

Y&N: Is it better to raise the girls in Madrid or here in Lausanne ?

LS: Maybe it was easier in Madrid, because we speak Spanish. I had a car and they were younger. Now, here with the weather, at the begining it was a problem. Paulina always said « Oh it's too cold, it's too cold, i don't want to go outside ! » But now she loves the snow, she loves going outside.

Paulina and her bicycle

Y&N: Where do you see yourself next year ? In five years..

LS: I have no idea. I would like to definitely go back to Mexico, but maybe we'll spend 3 or 4 more years in Europe. Anything can happen.

Y&N: What do you miss the most about Mexico ?

Well, my family, my friends. I talk with my mom and dad everyday on Skype. They like talking with the girls, seeing them. But also the food, the tortillas, elote, the tacos. I usually find stores that sell Mexican food, but I haven't found one yet!

Her favorite food and drink

Y&N: Favorite food or drink ?

LS: As an alcoholic, tequila. I love margaritas ! For me it's the best ! My favorite food is arrachera from Mexico. It is the meat you put on barbecue with guacamole and quesadillas!

Y&N: Where in Mexico do you recommend we visit?

LS: If you like the beach, the sun then Playa del Carmen. I haven't been myself but my friends were and told me it's amazing. The water is really crystal clear, the views are beautiful. You can have a great time there.

Vamos a la Playa... del Carmen!

Y&N: Do you plan to resume your job?

LS: Hopefully. We are planning to have another kid. After that, I hope I can start working again. I used to work in Mexico in a company called Danfoss. I was in the purchasing department and worked as a buyer and I really enjoyed. I got to be in contact with a lot of people and I like to talk with everybody. So it was the perfect job for me. I also like shopping!

Y&N: The best places to go shopping in Lausanne ?

LS: I don't have time to go shopping but I hope to find some good places soon.

Y&N: Can you tell us a place you like in Lausanne?

LS: Parc de Milan is amazing... The kids enjoy it a lot ! It's just 2 blocks from my house, so it's really convenient. And also for a coffee, I like the Hotel d'Angleterre with the big terrace you can see the lake and the Alps. I've been only once on a sunny day, having my coffee, looking at the lake, at the mountains. It was perfect !!!

Y&N: Something strange or unexpected about you...

LS: When people meet me, they think that I'm really serious. I don't know why, maybe my face. But I really like parties, really like to make friends, and I really love dancing! I learned belly dancing and hip hop when I was in the UK. I really like dancing a lot to Cumbias, Tex-Mex, I love dancing to this kind of music.

Y&N: How would you describe yourself in 3 words?

LS: Happy. Friendly. Responsible.

Y&N: If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would you choose?

LS: The Pope Jean-Paul II. I was planning to go to the Vatican just before he died. If i could have the chance to meet him, it would be great. When I see pictures of him, I just felt peace, calm.

I'm catholic. I really like to follow religion, especially in the season of Eastern.

Y&N: Can you tell us something in your native language?

LS: Estamos muy contentos de estar en Lausanne. Apoyando en Jorge en su MBA y esperamos tener un ano muy bueno con todos ustedes.

Y&N: And something in French...

LS: I've just started my French course this week. Je suis Mexicaine, bonjour, merci beaucoup.

The happy family!

Partner of the Week: Craig Haydon

2010-02-15T00:50:00.000-08:00

Funny guy with a big heart who doesn't take himself too seriously, and likes long walks along the lake... ;)

Name: Craig Haydon

Age: 39

Birth Place: South Africa, but grew up Yorkshire, UK

Profesion : Tutors adults who are unemployed, some who are in rehabilatation from drug or alcohol abuse, many have disabilities, ranging in age anywhere from 16 to 65 years old. He designs government training programs to get them back to work. Before this, he managed call centers, worked on cruise ships, was a hotel manager in a resort in Spain, among many other things!

Favorite Song: Queen, Winter's Tale from the Made in Heaven Album

Y&N: You have traveled a lot. Where do you recommend we go?
CH: Egypt. We went on a cruise on the Nile to see the Pyramids. Absolutely gorgeous. It was so magical, because you're cruising at night and you wake up in different places. We were going to ride Camels, but when I saw the camel, I changed my mind and took a boat instead. It was much better!
Brazil is on the top of my list, also.

South Africa is absolutely amazing. I went in 2003, for 2 weeks, but I stayed for 7 weeks. There is a National Safari park, Gruka, is exactly the same size as Wales. It's huge. I went to Johannesburg and did all the west coast, to Cape town, you drive through the vineyards, and then you drive through the desert, and then suddenly you're driving into snow...It's absolutely unbelievable... it's like 20 countries in one...
If partners want to go this year, because MBA students are going to go, I would recommend to go at least one week before or to stay a week after, because you need that amount of time... And your gonna need a tour...and a car... The most amazing place to be in the world.

Y&N: How do you react when you realized that you were going to move to Switzerland?
CH: I am used to moving for work. He told me «Oh, we're going to Switzerland. » «What the hell are you going there?» « I'm gonna do an MBA.» «Why? You are a doctor, why to go into business?» But, I supported him 200%. So we flew here for the interview. And I thought «Oh, this is a wonderful place!». We came at the end of the summer, and it was gorgeous. But personally, I prefer French people, they are so much more helpful, so much more polite, so much nicer people. But I enjoy Lausanne, even if I get bored. The only thing I don't like here is the dog shit. I am sick of it. In England, you would get fined. You don't see dog shit on the street. I go for a walk around the lake every morning and my knees are starting to hurt because I have to walk around all of the dog shit.

"Ahh, perfect, right in Craig's path."- Dog

Y&N: What do you think your life will be like next year? In 5 years?
CH: No idea. Not a clue. I don't care where we live. I just want somewhere warm. I love the sound of crickets at night. I would like Adzuan to have a job that we can see each other. In Wales we used to take a car and go to the lake, to the mountains just for a week-end. I miss that. The only thing we do together now is pay bills. On Saturdays we go and pay bills. Also, possibly, starting a new program, and finishing my book. I'm not motivated at that moment to do it.

Y&N: You already wrote a book ?
CH: Yes, it was printed into series in the newspaper, My first book was a murder mystery. I'd like the next one to be printed as a book. I thought having this view (of the mountains and lake) from my desk, the inspiration would come. I have more time to write now but I am thinking about changing the story and for the story to take place here.

View from Craig's Bedroom Window

Y&N: Have you always loved writing?
CH: I love writing. At school, I wrote a short story about my summer break. I was 12 and my teacher told me I was a genius. She told me that my short story could have been printed then because of how vivid my descriptions were, etc. I love to observe and people watch.

Y&N: Do you think your book could be adapted into a movie?
CH: No, it's not good enough. I'm not sure James Cameron would do it. But maybe a series. But Leonardo Di Caprio will have to be in it. And I'll have to meet him. And he will have to be naked a lot.

"I would love to be in your movie!"

Y&N: Can You Describe Yourself in 3 words?
CH: Crazy, even before my accident... Fun-loving and always there for people... Sometimes I do too much...

Y&N: Can you tell us about the accident?
CH: I got very strange, weird after my accident...13 years ago. It opened my eyes. I was hit by a motorcycle. I almost died...3 times... It took 9 months to recover. I'm completely fine now, but I lost my memories of that day.

Y&N: What is Your Favorite TV series?
CH: The Golden Girls. An American TV show from the late 80's. Four old women that lived together in a house. One is complete slut- she sleeps with anything that moves. One is very level-headed, very strong, she's like a man, looks like one too. Then, Rose, who is naive and finally, Ma, a very strong Sicilian woman, who is the oldest. It's absolutely hilarious.

Y&N: The person you would like to meet...
CH: Freddie Mercury. He was quite unique. I just grew up with Queen. I know everything about him. My favorite album, Made in Heaven, was the one he made just before he died. He recorded it in Montreux, here in Switzerland. The cover of the album is in Montreux. If you listen to the voice, you can't tell this man is about to die. He has such a powerful voice. He was a very insecure, shy man. I saw him during the Magic Tour in 1983, in Wembley.

Loves Queen and everyone in his family loves to sing, including him.

His mother was a soprano for Tom Jones and Shirley Bassey, among others

Partners Video: Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-14T13:28:00.001-08:00

Love from Chile, Brazil, and Paris*

2010-02-13T01:09:00.000-08:00

"I am in Love with a Viennese" "Wait... I'm Chilean!"

Camila and Dino were set up on a blind date by friends. After the first date, Camila thought Dino was OK but did not realize she had already fallen in love. Dino seemed to be very interested but was leaving for business in Vienna and promised to call and ask Camila out when he got back in a few weeks. When Dino returned, he did call Camila, but not to ask her out. To tell her he was in love with a Viennese woman. Even though they had only had one date, Camila felt her heart break and thought she lost the man of her dreams. A month later, Dino invited Camila to his birthday party and she decided to go. Dino soon admitted that he had made a mistake and the two started dating. Six months later, they moved in together. After ten months together, there was a proposal. Both think the other proposed, but either way, the two were married seven months later in Chile, this November, just before moving to Switzerland!

"Destined to be Together."- Carol's father

Carolina and Gustavo met when Carol was 16. Their parents were friends with each other. The two become friends and a year later, they went to a party together. Gustavo dropped off Carol at her home and asked if he could call her later that night. It was already very late, but Carol said sure. He called when he got home and told her that he was in love with her and wanted to date her. She said yes and the next day, he came to her home to ask her father permission to date his daughter. What a gentleman! The two dated for 5 years, while Carol finished college. Gustavo proposed one day at her family's home-- presumably he asked her father first--she of course said yes. Her father later told them that he had had a dream and always knew they were destined to be together. The two have been married for 2 years now!

The city of Love

Yann and Max met on Valentine's Day during a singles party. After a night of dancing and mingling, the two finally met. Max offered Yann a ride home and they exchanged a kiss and numbers. Max called Yann to set up a date shortly after. They went to the Petit Palais museum, then to a cafe for tea and dessert and later that evening to dinner. The date ended three days later, but their love was just beginning. This Valentine's Day they will celebrate their fourth year together!

*These are just excerpts, to hear more about these stories, set up a coffee :)

Love from Mexico, Japan and Brazil*

2010-02-04T12:15:00.000-08:00

Karen and Juan Martin went to the same university and were only one year apart, but they never met. Juan Martin moved to Texas for a job and Karen to Mexico City. A few years later, Juan Martin moved to Mexico City and was in search of new friends and a place to live. Meanwhile, Karen's friend was married to Juan Martin's friend and suggested that Karen meet with Juan Martin to help acquaint him with the city and maybe find him a room to rent. Karen happened to have a room available to rent in her apartment that she shared with her younger sister and offered it to Juan Martin. The first time they met was when she showed him her apartment. He agreed to rent the room and less than a year and a half later, they were married and moving to Lausanne!

Love And Text

Akane and Mitsuru met in Tokyo and dated for a year, then broke up. Got back together for a year, and broke up. This pattern continued. The last time they broke up, they decided to not marry each other and Akane thought they were over for good. They had been apart for a year and a half since this decision when Akane received a text message from Mitsuru asking her to marry him. She wasn't sure she understood the message so she texted him back to clarify. He clarified, that yes, he wanted to marry her. She responded OK. At the time, the two were living in different cities and Akane was heading on a trip abroad with her mother for one week. It was difficult for Akane to get to Tokyo so, after one more week after her trip, she finally went to see her fiance. It had been 1 year 6 months and 2 weeks until they were back together! Less than 9 months later they were married. They have been married for 1 year and 2 months!

"I Married My Boss" aka Love Letter from Italy

Nicole worked for Exxon with Jonatas in Brazil. She was assigned a project underneath him and soon they became good friends, although they both had already fallen in love, they felt constrained by the work environment to keep it to themselves. She eventually moved into another position underneath a new manager, but in the same department as Jonatas. They continued to be too close to each other at the office to confess their love. Nicole went on vacation to Europe and emailed Jonatas about Italy, a place he loved and often spoke of. He wrote her back an email in Italian and the conversation never ended. A week after her vacation, the two finally declared their love for each other. Two years later, they were married and now live happily ever after in Lausanne.

*Stories edited for brevity, for more details set up a coffee :)

Partner of the Week: Alex MacDonald

2010-02-02T23:26:00.000-08:00

Spanish loving, British-bred, laid back scientist who loves to have a good time.

"I'm Honored to be the Partner of the Week"

Name: Alex MacDonald

Age: 31

Current City: Madrid for 2 years

Birth Place: London, in Greenwich, grew up in Brighton.

Partner: Daniel Rincon Met Daniel in Cambridge

Degree/Profession: Genetics and Masters in Intellectual Property. Now works in a Clinical service – analysis of chromosomes of new born babies and children with developmental problems.

Favorite Song: Estranged, Guns N Roses

Yann & Nicki: How did you react when you found out Danny had been accepted into IMD?

AM: Obviously very pleased and proud. It's not the easiest place to get into. And excited. He was considering both IMD and INSEAD. So really pleased.

Y&N: Daily life in Madrid...

AM: A lot of people told me that as Daniel would be away for all the year, I should keep myself busy. I carry on working. I work in a laboratory. I have quite an easy time table, until about 3:30 but I usually work a little bit later. I started trying to do lot of things after work. For example painting classes. I give English lessons once a week to one little boy. I have started Spanish lessons twice a week, as well, to try to get fluent. I see my friends and try to keep myself busy. The things that I miss the most about Danny's not being around, is obviously not seeing him. It's really different to come home and not be able to talk somebody about your day everyday, and cooking -I'm not very good at cooking if there's nobody to cook for. So, most nights i have some toast and eggs.

She forgot to mention she's a rock star

Y&N: How would you describe yourself in 3 words?

AM: Easygoing...Good-natured... Genuine...

Y&N: Where do you see yourself in 5 years ?

AM: I'll be 36, so I'd like to be still working in my job in genetics, to have maybe gotten a promotion by that point. I would like to have 2 children. Still living in Madrid and I would like to have a mortgage. I'd like Danny to have a job that he really enjoys, challenges him but also allows him to spend enough time with me and the 2 children.

Y&N: Do you miss London ?

AM: I love London. It's A wonderful city. I feel more at home in Madrid, maybe because it's more residential. I love the food so much. It's a beautiful place. I miss certain things about London, the sense of humor of Londoners, that's why I get along with Craig so well, he's not a Londoner, but he has the sense of humor. I miss and love things like tea...That's not the same in Madrid.

Y&N: Your favorite drink ?

AM: It's a tie between red wine and coffee. I'm completely addicted to Spanish coffee.

Y&N: Favorite food ?

AM: My favorite meal would be my mum's lasagna. But there's a lot of things in Madrid that I love. Croquetas with potatoes , jamon and cheese.

Y&N: Dinner or drink with celebrity, dead or alive...

AM: I'm thinking of writers that I like, I am between Stephen King or C.S. Lewis...A book called...ScrewTape Letters, letters from a devil to his apprentice and his observation on humans...very true and interesting...My other favorite book is Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil... based in Savanah... Yeah... I would have to choose C.S. Lewis... He'd be a good influence on me.

C.S. Lewis

Y&N: Something strange about Lausanne...

AM: It's a very nice place... Having to pay a permit for your bicycle is a little bit strange. It's quite good to have rules. It's very clean. But maybe it's going a little bit too far. It's so expensive too.

Y&N: Is there a place you really want to visit?

AM: I really want to go and see Costa Rica. I've got a friend in Madrid who just moved to Costa Rica. She met an Argentinean last summer and completely fell in love with him. They have arranged to meet in Costa Rica and try to find jobs together. She left last week. It is the place where people are the happiest. I'd like to do a tour in South America. Go to Easter Island. Machu Pichu...

Y&N: Something unique or interesting about you?

AM: I think people are often surprised by my taste of music. I like rock, Guns n Roses, Metallica... I don't know why... They are also very surprised that my favorite film is Aliens.

Y&N: Your favorite memory with your partner...

AM: We both differed about our favorite. He says it was when we went around Europe. My favorite was when we went Malaysia. We rented a very cheap hut on the beach, on an island of Malaysia.We went for walks, swimming, and he was scared about the fish saying they were biting him...We used to sit on the little balcony, play cards and spend time with each other while looking at the sea.

Huts in Malaysia

Y&N: Can you tell us something in French?

AM: Je suis anglais, je m'appelle Alex. Ou est le gare? Bonjour mon petit poulet! *

*audio to folow

February is the M♥nth ♥f L♥ve

2010-01-31T15:32:00.000-08:00

In honor of St Valentine's day this month, we will be posting our love stories. Why not try to remember when we actually saw our partners ;) Should be a fun and interesting project! Feel free to check it out in the coming days and weeks.

Solothurn Swiss Film Festival

2010-01-29T06:33:00.000-08:00

Film Guide

On Wednesday, Daphna, Camila, Nicole, Akane, Karen, Yann and I went to Solothurn for the Swiss Film Festival. Most of us left our houses early and arrived home late.

Akane, Camila, Nicole, Karen, Nicki

I have been thinking about it, but I still have not decided what part of the day was best. Could it have been the train ride to Solothurn where we discussed politics, philosophy, business, gym class, and celebrities? Was it realizing that we were no longer in our beloved French speaking part of Switzerland but had crossed into the German side as we attempted to read the coffee menu in German, trying to decipher if we were ordering hot schokolade with cream or rum? (Turns out it was cream ;)

Theater 1

Was it when we got to the first theater and realized our gym cards got us the student discount?! Or maybe it was actually watching the first short (so serious and relevant) and movie (a dark psychological film)? Perhaps it was after these first French films that were subtitled in German when we found out who really spoke French who then in turn had to explain the complicated plot to the lesser franco-phones? ;) Merci beaucoup, mon amies.

Nicki, Daphna, Camila, Yann, Nicole, Akane

No, it might have been the long lunch where we continued laughing and chatting about everything. It could have been when Karen showed up and shared how she had just missed the train that morning due to a mishap with her feet and the ground :) I know it was definitely NOT when we had to walk across town and over the bridge in -5C to the next theater.

Yann, Camila, Karen, BRRR!!

Another close one would be the second short we saw entitled Las Pelotas, a film that takes place in Argentina about two men overly obsessed with the game of soccer and what they would do to have a son who could play on Manchester. Or maybe the final movie, Pizza Bethlehem, a heart-warming documentary about a girls soccer team that was made of girls from 30 different nationalities. We chose this film since our group has over 40 nationalities in total and thought we could relate well.

"Las Pelotas"

Still, I hate to be so indecisive, but the drink at the train cafe while we waited for the train was rather hilarious. I received quite an extensive German lesson from the bartender that the entire cafe seemed to enjoy. The train ride home was jolly as well. We each shared the stories of how we met our partners and when the last one finished, we were standing in Lausanne. But, maybe, just maybe it was being able to have a day like this.

Chocolate Oscar

Partner of the Week: Margarida "Magui" Ponciano Martini

2010-01-26T10:05:00.000-08:00

"My life is not local anymore"

A gregarious and strong woman looking for the best for her family and her career, wherever she may be.

Name: Margarida "Magui" Ponciano Martini
Age: 29
Profession/Degree: Urban Planning/Civil Engineering
City/Country: Lisbon, Portugal (Born in Lisbon, grew up in small town called Torres Vedras)
Recently moved from: Detroit, Michigan, USA
Partner: Married to Philip Martini
Children (significance of name): Alexander, 6 months, they needed to find a name that worked in both Portuguese and German.
Favorite Songs/Artists: Eryka Badu Featuring Stephen Marley "In Love with You" and Nina Simone "Feeling Good"

Yann & Nicki: What did you leave behind in your home country that you miss the most? What was your typical day like?
MPM: Lisbon, I miss it the most. I lived in a small town where my parents still live and moved to Lisbon when I was 18 for college and was there until I moved to the States 3 1/2 years ago. When I am away, I do not miss it much. But when I go back, I realize how much I miss it: the weather, the river, my friends! My dream would be to go back one day and live there.

Typical day in Detroit: I was working until I had Alexander. I would get up at 630am, which was really hard for me, since I am not a morning person. I would start work at 8am. In Portugal I would start at 9 or 930am, so this was really early. I would drive 30 mins to the office, work all day, have lunch with my colleagues and come home around 6pm. There was always something going on. Philip would come home around the same time and we would have diner or go to the movies or out with our friends.

Y&N: Where in Portugal would you recommend we visit?
MPM: Lisbon! There is a little tour that I like to do. First, the older part of town with the monuments and then the newer part where the Expo is. The center is really nice with little corner shops. It is very pedestrian, so you can walk all around. It is a little like Lausanne because it is hilly. At night, there is this area in town where every door is a bar and the people are really happy and enjoying themselves. Chiado and Bairro Alto are the places to go out.

Magui and Philip in the background, her parents on the right

Y&N: What was your reaction when Philip got accepted and you found out you were relocating to Switzerland?
MPM: It was very hard. The automotive industry was not doing so well and we had an option to relocate to Germany, but the opportunities were not that great there, either. Philip always wanted to get his MBA and it was always our Plan B. Until it became our Plan A. It happened so quickly and we had to decide in two weeks and I was pregnant. I tried talking to other partners about what life was going to be like and kept hearing that I would never see Philip. It was hard, I was going to a new place, wasn't going to know anyone and Philip was going to be busy. Our other option was going to Germany and that would have been nice because we have friends there and I speak German but Philip really wanted to do this and I wanted to support him. So here we are.

Y&N: What place have you visited that you liked the most?
MPM: I really liked Brazil. The people there are so nice, so friendly, and so happy. They dance and sing. The landscape is gorgeous and the weather is really nice. Us Portuguese feel like the Brazilians are our brothers or cousins. It is a really nice country and the people always make you feel welcome.

Y&N: A place you really like in Lausanne?
MPM: I really like the Cafe de Grancy. It is something you do not see very much in the US, the little street cafes. I am a coffee freak, so I can go in, have a cappuccino and read a book.

Her homemade cappuccino!

Y&N: What is something you like/dislike about Switzerland?
MPM: I like the mountains. I didn't know if I would because I am from a beach country but you can feel the presence of the mountains, it is hard to explain. Sometimes, I walk to the center of the town and sometimes you see the huge mountains surrounding the city. At times it is a little overwhelming. I am sure it influences the people here, the way that people are influenced by geography like they mentioned in our class. I dislike all of the rules. I have not had any bad experiences yet but every tiny little thing you have to pay like the radio and internet. Not being able to walk in the house with shoes because you are afraid that your neighbor will hear you, these little things are annoying.

Y&N: Is there something you would do differently in your life if you had the chance? Any regrets?
MPM: I guess if I could go back I would change what I studied. When I went in, I didn't know what was going to happen. But Urban Planning is such a local degree and my life is not local anymore. Now I have a German husband and it doesn't seem like we are going to be in the same place a lot. So every time we move, I have to find a new job. My degree involves local government, the local city council, using your network and knowing the local laws. If I knew I was going to have this life, I would have studied something a little more global, like business.

Her travel book collection.

Y&N: If you could have dinner with anyone who would it be?
MPM: It is a bit of a cliche, but this is the only one that comes to mind, Michelle Obama. I think she is amazing. I am very much a "power to the woman" kind of person. I like strong women in whatever they do, not just careers. I learned this from my mom. She was always working, raising two kids and when we were teenagers she got her Masters. She has always told us "If you want to be good, you have to be twice as good when you are compared to men." I am always fascinated by women who are extraordinary and I think Michelle Obama is. She is intelligent, pretty, has a family. It seems like she was able to do everything and that is what I want for myself. I would love to talk to her and learn from her.

Y&N: Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Next year?
MPM: That is very hard. I don't know if I can answer that. It is something we have been talking about. It always seems like it will be Germany. The economy is better there for work and Philip is German. I think it could really be anywhere, but we want to stay in Europe. Now we have our son so we want to be close to our families. I think it might be Germany.

Y&N: What is your favorite word or phrase in French?
MPM: "Je t'aime!" I love French. To me, French is "Je t'aime, mon amour, Paris." It is lovely!

Y&N: What is something about you that most people are surprised by?
MPM: That no one knows? Everyone knows everything about me! Ok, I guess people are surprised that I play the piano and like classical music. I took lessons for 8 years but haven't played for years but it is something I like.

Y&N: Can you tell us something in your native language?
MPM: "Aqui estamos nós na Suíça que é o quarto país onde vivemos juntos. Uma nova aventura. Eu gosto de aventuras. Espero que seja uma aventura também para o nosso filho e que quando crescer possa dizer que esteve aqui com os seus pais e que foi aqui a sua segunda casa. Foi aqui que fomos uma família. Estou com grandes esperanças para este ano."

Yann and I had another great interview. No surprise here! Magui has an outgoing personality that has no doubt served her well in her travels. She claims there is very little people do not know about her because she opens up and shares early on. One thing you may not know about Magui is that she can sing (she will deny this!) While trying to remember the name of the song by Nina Simone, Yann and I got a front row seat to her sing the first line. Wowsers! Is there a karaoke bar in Lausanne? If so, this is our girl.
While we interviewed Magui, Alexander was "dancing" around on the ground. Magui told us he loves to boogey and told us her theory why. Magui was out til 4am the day she gave birth and she likes to say that Alexander couldn't wait to get out and join the party!

Also, check out her shared yard-- looks like a great place for summer BBQs!

Culture Shock and The Traveler

2010-01-19T09:37:00.000-08:00

I was thinking about the discussion we had yesterday on culture shock or just plain culture. It reminded me of a story I heard years ago and I thought I would share it here. I am not sure who the author is but credit is due somewhere. I think of this story anytime I am going to move to a new place, start a new job or have any new experience. Thought some of you may enjoy it.

************************************************

The Traveler

Author forgotten...

One day, a man left a village and traveled down a road. On the road he encountered another man. He stopped to ask him a question.

Traveler 1: Excuse me, sir. I am just leaving this last town and had such an incredible experience. The people were amazing. So kind, generous and happy. The weather was wonderful, almost always sunny. I am sad to leave, but must. Do you happen to know what the people in the next town are like?

Man in Street: Why yes, I do. They are just like the people from the last town. They are kind and warm. They enjoy life and they are friendly. The weather is beautiful! If you were happy in the last town, you will just love this town!

Traveler: Thank you sir!

And off the traveler went with a smile.

A short while later, another man was traveling down the same road and came upon the man in the street.

Traveler 2: Excuse me, sir. I am leaving this past town and had a terrible experience. The people are horrible and strange. The food is awful and the weather is overcast. I was very unhappy here. Do you happen to know if the next town is better?

Man: I am sorry, sir. The next town is just as bad if not worse. The people are even more bizarre and the food less flavorful. You can usually find clouds in the sky if you look for them. If you were unhappy in this last town, chances are you will be unhappy in this one as well. Good luck.

And off the second traveler went, grumbling.

Moral of the story: You will find what you are looking for.

Partner of the week : Karen Del Toro

2010-01-18T13:19:00.000-08:00

"My main goal is to relax"
A hard-working, perfectionist woman looking for a break.

Name: Karen Del Toro
Age: 30 years
City, Country: Guadalajara, Mexico
Profession: worked as a manager (sales and marketing) for a British beverage company for 7 years, her clients included department and convenient stores in Mexico
Partner: Juan Marin Ortiz, Married in December, no children yet

Favorite Music/Artist: Luis Miguel, song "Mexico en la piel"

Yann & Nicki: What did you leave behind in your home country that you miss?

Karen Del Toro: I knew that Switzerland would be quite a diiferent country from Mexico. I'm trying not to miss too many things. The culture is very different. I don't miss my family yet but I'm sure I'm going to later. In Mexico there are all kind of fruits, very good ones. Here you find just bananas, apples, oranges. That's it !

Virgin of Guadalupe, a gift from her sister

Y&N: What was your typical day in Mexico like?

KdT: I woke up, went to my work, spent almost all day there in Mexico city. I used to lunch with my friends. I miss them. After work, I came back home, ran a little bit in a park near my home. Sometimes, at night, we used to go coffee or go to a bar or just relax.

Y&N: What was your reaction when you found out that your partner got into IMD (and you were relocating)?

KdT: I was very happy for him. Very excited for this challenge. Because this is a challenge. When he started study with the GMAT, he was very sincere with me. So, he told me « I want to do this, but I don't want to do this alone. I need you in this life ». It was 5 or 7 months before he was accepted. So, I told him « Ok, don't worry, everything is going to be very good .. Do your best. But I didn't think a lot about this decision or what would happen if he was accepted. Finally he was, so I said « Do you really want to go or not ? » So it was difficult for me. I wasn't very sure. I took a break, a week, to think about this. I used to have a very good job, everybody told me « don't quit », cause it's very difficult to have another job like this, especially in this crisis time. I said finally « OK, let's go and see what happens... ». Here I am.

Y&N: What is your main goal this year?

KdT: I'm a very apprehensive woman... So, this year my first goal is to relax... to enjoy life, not to follow things people tell me to go for. Also I want to do a lot of things, make some friends, improve my English, and to practice French.

Y&N: What activities would you like to do with the other partners?

KdT: Go to the gym, run. I want to go to little towns near Lausanne. Just walk. To learn about the swiss culture. I love cooking. I brought with me some cook books. I want to learn to prepare desserts. I want to go to dance bars, just have fun. I used to dance hawaian and mexican traditional dance.

Y&N: Are you looking for a job this year ?
KdT: I'm not looking for a job. But I know it's very hard to be here with doing nothing. So, we'll see. I have an interview next week. If it's a good job, I will take. If not, I prefer to be with my friends, to travel around the country. I could work for an NGO. That is something I always wanted to do. I used to love my work on profesionnal term but not personal. It paid me a lot but I want to do something that creates value for people.

Y&N: What do you like/dislike in Lausanne?

KdT: What I like the most... It is a very jolly city...very european... I love the buildings, the landscapes, the mountains...
I wish to have a better weather, because i'm not used to this. It's not too cold, but I prefer warmer weather. And it's very expensive. The cost of life is very expensive.

Y&N: Where do you think you will be next year ?

KdT: I don't have any idea. I'm very open. Hopefully in Europe. I want to stay 2 more years, or 5 . I love european culture. It's my first time to live abroad.

Y&N: How would you describe yourself in 3 words ?

KdT: Honest.... I'm very transparent. What you see in my face, is what I'm thinking. So if I'm angry, you just see me and notice... Perseverant.... and I'm always looking to grow, in a spiritual way...I'm forcing myself to be better...

Y&N: What is one thing that no one knows about you or would expect?

KdT: I'm a very persistent person. So, I always try to do what I want and almost all the time I accomplish my goals. There is a song that my husband loves a lot, Rachmanivo, Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. So, I prepared a surprise for him at our wedding. I learned to play piano in one and a half months. It's a really difficult song. I told the piano teacher I wanted to learn this song, and he asked « How many years have you been playing the piano? » I told him « Never ». I learned the song and played it at my wedding. I love to surprise people!

Y&N: Tell me something in your native language

KdT: Estoy super feliz de estar en Lausanne. Pero mucho mas feliz de haber encontrado amigos tan increíbles como ustedes. Porque de verdad lo mas importante no lo encuentras en una ciudad tan linda y con paisajes increíbles, si no en la gente con la que puedes compartir muchas cosas. Mi vida, mi tiempo. Para mi es muy importante.

Y&N: What can you say in french ?

KdT: Je suis heureuse d'être ici et aussi de mon mari, de l'école, car il est très heureux aussi. Je veux parler un meilleur français, quand c'est fini. Merci.

Yann and I had such a pleasure interviewing Karen. We had no idea how this project would go and as our first interviewee, we could not have been any more lucky! Karen's sweet, honest, and thoughtful personality really impressed us and we know that Karen is in for a wonderful year out of the fast lane and into slow and quiet Lausanne. A rest she surely deserves!

RSR Clarika show and Snowball

2010-01-15T02:01:00.000-08:00

Tonight was amazing! Yann, Catalin, Camila, Karen and myself went to the Clarika concert at Radio Suisse Romande. It was fantastic! Check her out. She played for an hour, they had the stage lights going, a fog machine, and really put on quite a show. She is going to play in Geneva at the end of the month and I would love to see her again!

When we left the venue to head back to the metro to our homes, a goofy looking college-aged guy dressed in a bright yellow coat and knitted ski hat said something to me and Camila. I didn't even realize he was talking to me, but Camila turned around and smiled and said something back to him about how the concert was indeed good. He then started to walk ahead of us and we continued our conversation. Before I realized it, he had gathered a snowball and thrown it at my head!! My entire group burst into laughter. I just stood there shocked. All I wanted to do was start a war and grab more snow and aim, but I realized it was best if I just let it go.

When Camila told the rest of the group that he was trying to start a conversation with us and we did not oblige him he walked ahead and threw the snow. Catalin told me when boys are young, this is definitely the way they think best to show how much they like someone :) Lucky me. Worst case, I was a victim of a deranged snowball-hit-and-run. Best case scenario, I was the recipient of Cupid's arrow in the form of a snowball in the face.

Anyways, thanks to Yann for finding this event. Even after getting hit by the snowball, the evening was simply amazing!

The role we are expected to play...

2010-01-13T05:01:00.000-08:00

'This is gonna be a tough but a rewarding year'. That's the motto of Martha Maznevski's, current program director of the IMD MBA. That is what she told the MBA students in her presentation video and that's what she told us too, during the partner's presentation. And to illustrate her point, she gave us two very explicit examples of what we could expect of the year because before being MBA program director, she herself went through her own similar situation.

SCARY MOMMY

When she was working on her dissertation for her PHD, her daughter was a year and a half. Martha was very busy, working long hours in a cramped studio where showers and outfit changes were a luxury of the past. While she would work away in her tiny bedroom, her daughter would cry "Mommy!" from outside her door. The only thing she wanted to do was open the door and be with her daughter. Her husband actually played the good role we are expected to play: to make sure our partner will be only concentrated on their studies. So, what did he do? He entered the room, took a picture of his exhausted and scary-looking partner, put it on the door and told his daughter: "You see... it's Mommy... Do you really want to see her like this ?"

WHAT REALLY COUNTS

The second image and lesson to learn for a partner is the important role he/she plays for the morale of his/her student partner. During the same year, Martha was really depressed and thought she could never finish her work...She was about to renounce and give up on her dissertation. Her husband told her "OK, look around you...We are the most important thing in your life. We are here now, and will be there after this tough year. So let's finish this dissertation, no matter how good it is. What really counts is the 3 of us". And with these supporting words, the love of a partner helped her finish her work. And the sacrifices she made this year paid off. She enjoys toiday her life with her husband and 2 teenage girls with high education and friends all over the world. As we'll enjoy after our partners graduation...

So, being loving enough to remind our partner the priority and telling them how important it is for our futures. That is what we are expected to do... Do remember this when you are fed up waiting for him/her at night and when he/she will arrive and possibly forgetting your name because he/she's so tired...

YES WE CAN...