Even Darth Vader sucks at Powerpoint

(Image courtesy of this link)

One of the bloggers I follow just posted about his experience in Edward Tufte's class. Tufte is one of the foremost authorities on the art and science of presenting information, and a big opponent of Powerpoint.

Given that MBAs are going to be doing many presentations in class and outside of class (in their jobs, internships, etc), it really pays to hone this skill. I have rarely seen strong presentations and presenters, but let me tell you that it is a real joy when you come across one (or both). I think its also a great way to stand out from the crowd and your peers.

Check it out when you have a chance.

Last post today, I promise

I was goofing around seeing where my blog shows up in Google search results (yeah I'm a geek) and stumbled upon the CBS GBA page. GBA is the Graduate Business Association and are the student leaders within the school. There are descriptions of what all of these folks do, and I think it will help you get an idea of what kind of stuff is going on at our school. I thought it was great because it really gives you an idea of how involved people can be and also what kind of leadership opportunities are out there for incoming students.

Interesting post on management and micromanagement

Marc Andressen's blog is usually full of gems, and I especially liked this post about management and micromanagement that was made by one of the guys who ran his latest company, Opsware (recently sold to HP for 1.5B).

(For those of you who don't know, Andressen was one of the founders of Netscape, back in the yesteryear of the 1990's.)

Check out the blog if you have a chance.

Say hello to the new Technology VP of the rugby club. The existing Tech VP is going to be taking a position on the GBA Board (GBA is sort of like student council for the whole school, only unlike high school they actually do stuff :) and I was asked to take over for him. Sounds like the main job will be for me to continue the development of a team website that will allow the alums to keep up with the current team, and also to facilitate networking. The site is being built by a third party and should be done soon, and I'll be transitioning things from the existing VP over the rest of the year.

I'm also thinking of running for some sort of VP position within the Technology Business Group. Since I plan on going back into the tech sector in some capacity, I think it will be a good way to keep up with the industry and also leverage some of my industry contacts. This one will require a vote of the existing membership, however, so I better start working on my candidate statement!

By the way, on a broader note, if you are thinking of coming to CBS, keep in mind that there are a HUGE number of leadership positions available. Every club has numerous leadership positions and there are plenty of opportunities to participate and hone your leadership and organizational skills. There is really something for everyone and everyone can (and is encouraged) to get involved. It's especially great for those who haven't had formal management experience before coming to school. Basically, you have a low risk environment in which to hone your skills. Can't beat that!