It's been a busy few weeks since my last blog.  We have been having 'last classes' with most of our professors which has been both sad and exciting.  I have gained so much perspective on business issues since I have been at Babson. I am sad to be leaving such a supportive and sharing environment, but excited to be embarking on the next stage of the programme.

I have been taught the tools to master the sales process,  drilled in seeing the customers perspective and to approach the world in a collaborative and action oriented manner.  I have gained so much from this first part of the Fellowship I am ready to leap head first into my externship starting in January.

I am off - with Claire - to IBM in North Carolina to work on projects within the Integrated Supply Chain.  A new area for me but I feel that I am equipped with the tools and support to tackle the project.  This week we are working on the prep for this externship and getting a grip on the sheer scale of IBM as an organisation. North Carolina will test my collaborative working skills - my line manager for IBM is based in New York, the other Fellows in my Carbon Reduction Project will be based in Boston and Houston, and of course my husband is still in Orkney. New industry, time zones, goals, deadlines  and action required - what more could I ask from my first externship!

Action will be required!