Breukelen?

I just reactivated my blog, mostly due to the fact that GoDaddy kept emailing me about renewing my domain, (you are probably reading this at harryberendsen.com), and I figured since my “gratis” web space on the U of O servers is expiring soon, I might as well transfer back to WordPress and blog once in while. Enough about that, big things have happened.

First, I graduated from the University of Oregon with a BA in Business Administration. I leave Eugene with 4 years of memories. Some good, some bad, many unforgettable. It’s impossible to leave without those pangs of “home”sickness, that feeling that you still belong when in reality you do not. Eugene will hold a special place for me, as will Autzen. From Stadium Park to 680, from my first game with my father to my last time watching Oregon win the Rose Bowl, I will never forget my time there. The people resonate just as strongly. I’m not usual the most sentimental of people when it comes to friendships, (byproduct of moving around several times while I was growing up), but I genuinely miss the friends, teachers, and brothers that I left behind. I hope to see many of them in my near future, (read- come visit me in Holland).

Second, I have returned to the beautiful and crazy country that is Holland. My birthplace, the country of residence for my entire family, and my home for (at least) the next 12 months. I’m pursuing my MBA at Nyenrode University, the most respected business university in the Netherlands. Classes have not officially begun yet, (first group meeting tonight), but I have a small grasp on how this tiny community works. Two major degrees, MBA and MSc. Two very distinct populations. My class, a group of 39 individuals from 19 countries, (our largest ethnic group is Indian), from all over the world. Different backgrounds, different beliefs, different values, different communication styles, different dreams. One goal. 12 months from now, we hope to do what the 2012 IMBA class did just today, graduate from Nyenrode with a monstrously large diploma. It will absolutely be a grueling battle, but we’ll have plenty of Indian food along the way to keep us motivated. The tiny city of Breukelen, (for which Brooklyn is named, true story), will be our home for the next year. Let the journey begin.

There you are. Not the most relevant of posts, (to you, anyway), but I wanted/needed to let them out.

Groetjes,

Harry

Business School

So I’ve almost completed two terms in the business school, and I got the urge to deliver a quick write up. I wouldn’t consider it a review, as I am not only unqualified to write a review, but I have absolutely nothing to compare it to.

The most striking thing about the business school, is the teachers themselves. I’ve had some absolutely fantastic teachers. I fully expected to be bored out of my mind, and it hasn’t happened. It’s possible that I’m going to end up being bored in my last 4 terms, but I highly doubt it. The teachers care, and they all show a clear passion for what they teach. Even my business statistics teacher, who admits it isn’t his favorite topic to teach, manages to bring a passion and excitement to the class. The classes also feel relevant. That might not mean much to you, but I’ve taken years of classes that barely pertain to myself or my future. It’s incredible to finally take classes and want to learn. Even when it’s difficult, I still want to learn.

My favorite class so far, might be the one I’m struggling in the most. It’s business leadership and communication, and it is not an easy course. The grading is extremely harsh, but I’m learning a lot about myself, as a leader and as a team member.

All in all, I’d say I’m enjoying the LCB. Until next time,

-Harry