Coming to Berkeley-Haas as an exchange student from London Business school for Fall term, I had already heard great things on the welcoming nature of Haas from previous exchangers, but even with this, I was blown away by the warm environment in which I found myself; this was not just a matter of good weather, and was especially the case with WIL. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed into the group. The lovely WIL members took it upon themselves to ensure we were included in every activity. Living so close to school, at I-House, meant that we were able to get fully involved in all the exciting Haas goings-on.
We’ve been invited to partake in a full range of numerous events and activities, and I’ve had the pleasure of enjoying a plethora of fabulous activities, including welcome drinks, a welcome dinner hosted by second years, another house dinner, a day-trip to Napa, group session of The Dailey Method (more about this later!) and holiday drinks.
The semester opened with a fabulous mixer at Revival, which was a great opportunity to get to know many of the full-time and evening-weekend students more, as well as many of the women in the combined courses. Then, Liz, Becky, Christa and Caroline all hosted fabulous dinners – there was a real sense of community, with us all bringing a dish of our choice – or for those of us without kitchens, wine. These provided great opportunities to get to know each-other better, and relax in comfortable surroundings!
Just about the right time in the semester, Lauren organized a group trip to a cross between yoga, pilates and ballet, The Dailey Method where I realized just how sporty these Californian women were – I, personally, was aching for days, but felt just a little more virtuous!
In Napa we visited three different wineries; the third one, in particular, Rubicon Estate, laid on a great event for us – it felt like we were walking into a scene from a wedding in a glamorous Californian film – 32 degree (Celcius, don’t worry) heat, jazz playing, canapés a plenty and the most delicious wines. Check out the photo – our dresses matched the sky.
Haas ladies from left to right: Kate Halkerston, Megan Rast, Della Huff, and Lara O'Shea
Last night, we enjoyed holiday drinks at Otis Lounge. It was sad to start to say my goodbyes; whilst I’m looking forward to seeing family and friends back in the UK, I’m going to miss my new Berkeley friends big time. However, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. I’m thrilled to have had such an amazing semester, and look forward to maintaining new lifelong friendships. I feel privileged to be part of this accomplished, energetic, lovely group of women and look forward to helping to make the exchange students at LBS feel just as welcomed as I have been at Haas.
Thank you WIL!
Lara O’Shea – LBS Student, on exchange at Haas-Berkeley, Fall 2010