Sloan Optional Essay September 2016

SLOAN MIT OPTIONAL ESSAYKELSEY MRKONIC • 9/15/16

My Grandpa was one of the most hard-working people I’ve ever known-- and one of my biggest influences

He grew up in a tiny region of Croatia, came to the US and learned English at 12

He earned a scholarship to KU for Football, and made it to the NFL

The house he grew up in- today

As a little girl, I internalized his [slightly football oriented] life mottos, and I try to live up to them, working hard every day

“Nobody ever drowned in their own sweat”

v

“As long as you’re still breathing you’re alright”

“To ‘em and Through ‘em”

So even though I am in the office from sunrise..

.. to sunset (though can’t complain about my view)

In my free time I try to challenge myself to do things I’ve never done.

The last 12 months have been a year of firsts:

First Promotion, to Associate!

Learned to drive on the left side of the street!

1st visit to Australia & New Zealand

.. First Visit to Disneyland.. Visited my 28th state (Oregon)!

.. Successfully surprised my Mom (flying home) for the first time!

Went to Yosemite for the first time and Climbed Half Dome! 16 Miles - 8,800 ft elevation

1st Bungee Jump

1st visit to France & Ireland

... and ran my First Half Marathon (for St. Judes)!

Most importantly, I decided to challenge myself to be a better leader and apply to Business School at Sloan

Thank you for reading!