Monday, April 30, 2012

WIB Takes Chicago


This past weekend Women in Business (WIB) journeyed to Chicago for the first time for a trip planned by the Corporate Sponsorship committee. The members had a chance to explore and get a feel for the city, which was great for members such as freshman Kelly Shah who were visiting the city for the first time. Upon reflection Shah thought “It was really great visiting Chicago for the first time on a professional trip, it was an opportunity that I don't think I would otherwise have for a few years.”

The members arrived in Chicago Thursday night and woke up Friday morning to visit the corporate headquarters of WW Grainger, the leading distributor of supplies, MRO equipment, tools and materials. Members were given a tour of the enormous facilities by a few IU Alums, had lunch with the Vice President and General Manager Grainger Brand, Deb Oler, and learned a lot about the culture at Grainger and what to look for in a future job. Kelley Shah explained that “Grainger seemed like a strong company with a big interest in IU. I liked how the building was LED certified and the lunch was excellent!”. The WIB members left Grainger in awe.
The group then journeyed into the city where, after overcoming nasty rain and a flat tire, they visited the University Of Chicago Booth School Of Business. The members were warmly welcomed by a small group of MBA students and chatted over delicious appetizers. Then followed a panel discussion in which the MBA students shared information about applying to MBA programs and what the program can add to your career. The experience at Booth left the WIB members with the information necessary to start planning to get an MBA.
To top off the day, the members dashed through the fog and rain to get a little taste of Italy at Quartino’s, a family style Italian restaurant located about five minutes from Booth. Members munched on pizza, pasta, and more while chatting about the day. But in the back of their minds they could not stop thinking about the Sweet Sixteen basketball game taking place later that night. Although the Hoosiers did not advance in the tournament, watching the game together was a perfect opportunity for great WIB bonding.
Overall, the WIB trip to Chicago was a smashing success, despite the dreary Chicago weather, and a special thanks is extended to Corporate Sponsorship, WW Grainger, and the University Of Chicago Booth School Of Business for making the trip possible.