No matter which generation you claim, The Sound of Music has a special place in your heart. I’m reminded of this beloved movie and, of course, the soundtrack as it celebrates the 50th anniversary in 2015. One of my most favorite songs growing up was “My Favorite Things,” especially since my mom would sing it to my sister and me as we drifted off to sleep at night.

While my favorite things aren’t quite the same as Maria von Trapp’s (although who doesn’t love brown paper packages tied up with string?), many of you may find them favorites of your own too.

1. Ability to watch videos on demand. I love binge watching Netflix, especially catching up on IU “Alumna” Leslie Knope’s Indiana adventures on “Parks and Recreation.” Watching television or webinars in real time doesn’t always work with our on-the-go culture. One free video on-demand you may have missed recently is the “Disruptive Innovators, Entrepreneurs, & Thought Leaders” summit in San Francisco in February. We were very lucky to host four rockstar alumni doing great things in innovation and entrepreneurship. Perfect segue into…
2. Inspiring quotes. My Facebook and Pinterest feeds are full of inspiring quotes, and my favorites are those that have a lasting effect from both personal and professional angles. The San Francisco “Disruptors” event was chock full of them. My favorites included: Don’t believe them when they tell you that you “cannot do it.” -Val Grubb, MBA ’01; It’s not what you’ve done but why you did it. -Tony Conrad, BA ’84.

After you watch the video, let us know which quotes resonated with you by tweeting to @IUAA and @emilisperling, or leave a comment below. The alumni wisdom transcends so many industries and generations, it’s too good not to share with our beloved volunteers. Val, Deborah, Tony and David paid forward their expertise. We hope you’ll pay it forward too and share the video with more IU alumni in your network.

As always, IUAA Career and Professional Development has your back throughout your lifetime, so stay connected with our services and offerings.

Until Next Time,
Emili