GRAD 702 - Reflections on Module 5 Concepts

Learning Journal #5

What did you learn about yourself by completing the PDP?

I put thought into this assignment as I reflected on the past and present. I recognized where I have been and how I grew from those experiences to make me into what I am today. I am using past experiences to enhance present skills/positions and currents relationships that make up my social capital network (both personal and professional). I understand the need to strengthen my networks so I have joined company organizations and I continue to volunteer. I recently accepted a leadership role in the volunteer organization, SVTC (Single volunteers of the Twin Cities). This role is hosting and picking locations for happy and social hours. I will also be responsible for the annual August fundraiser. Also, to be a successful leader (someday) I will continue participating in Toastmasters and keep up with my education so within 2-3 years I will graduate with my MBA.

This paper was the most time consuming and most important assignment that I’ve done so far, I did not take this assignment light. While composing my thoughts and reviewing my past and where I go in the future I have seen positive changes. Maybe it has been due to my education, my drive to climb the corporate ladder or maybe I’m truly seeing myself as an adult for the first time in the tough business world My PDP seemed to put everything into perspective.

What was most significant to you about the external environmental segment researched by your team?

I am apart of team 3, The Grads. Our environmental segment was the regulatory one. The most important aspect of this segment was information pertaining to security since our great nation is not as strong as we thought at one point. We discussed the change and urgency to secure our airports, borders and other extreme measures since 9/11/01. Also, we identified that security also covered how we use/hide our private information (like social security numbers). In years past we used them on varies forms…from government down to employment applications. Today most individuals will eliminate their social security numbers on forms unless absolutely necessary. I am just starting to realize this.

Personal example: when ordering checks I use to always put my home phone, driver’s license number, full name and address. Not anymore, now days I may only put a T. Yates and my full address. If they need any other information I’ll give it to them verbally. I am much more cautious on personal security, where I log on to, where and how I use personal security numbers and making sure to log out of websites that contain personal information (like my banks).

How could you use what you have learned about yourself by completing the PDP on your job?

I am in the beginning stages of applying my knowledge and recognizing where I want to go with SUPERVALU. First steps I have taken are volunteering at SUPERVALU sponsored events and within the community, taking on the Social Chair position through SVTC and taking the time to participate in company organizations and Toastmasters. All these acts will make me a stronger individual, I will be recognized in my community and work, and I will build my experiences for my resume to hold great positions.

The HBDI, LPI and EI assessments confirm that I am quadrant B and C as I prefer to keep things and people organized, I pay attention to details and deadlines and I like working with people and paying attention to feelings. Since I now fully understand the meaning and roles that other quadrants may possess I will use that to strengthen groups and activities/problems I work on. Also, I now know which jobs compliment my quadrants, having passion for my job should help guarantee success and happiness. Sure I love working with my present co-workers and managers, but I dislike the job. As I move into a more demanding job I should find something that compliments both quadrants (B and C).


How do you define wisdom?

Being talented and using one’s skills and resources correctly to benefit a project or team. This person would share this information with others so as a team everyone would get something out of it.