It's Getting Real

Image from Commercial Debt Consultants.

With the signing of some tuition reimbursement papers, this entry into graduate school is quickly becoming "real".

This is an excerpt from an e-mail I sent to a friend about going to school:

I have decided to take the plunge and start BGI this fall. I have to admit that I am a bit worried since I am doing this as somewhat of a "Maverick" [bad word?]. My manager understands my desire to pursue an advanced degree, but I have only been on board since last December and I have not established my street cred as deeply as I would like. That said, if I cannot convince people internally that we have to take action regarding sustainable biz, then it's really not the right place for me anyway. In a perfect world, I'd be in an org. that wants to pursue susbiz and I would be the investment/catalyst with management buy-in. On the other hand, I think this will be a good management and political learning experience that will serve me well in the future. I can completely understand his concern for my overcommitment to school & work...and he has been open and honest with his thoughts that if he perceives that I am slacking with work, it will be time to make a choice. I am planning NOT to reach that point. For once, I am optimistic and excited...though bouts of anxiety creep into my consciousness almost daily.

Some "real world" comments from my manager boils down to this (I have paraphrased):

I have...concerns about your ability to devote the effort needed for BOTH this academic pursuit and your job...If this interferes with your job, I will likely ask you to choose between continued employment and this program.

His comments are completely fair. He is ultimately responsible for hitting revenue targets for the company, therefore, as a good functional manager, he is focused on that goal. It's his responsibility to keep me on task as well. I am very grateful for his support, considering I am a relatively new employee. I guess I am stupid enough to give this a go. Heck, nothing ventured, nothing gained.