Hilary term started off with the same kind of intensity as Michaelmas, and before you know what’s hit you, it’s the end of week three! I do recognize some distinct differences in the general environment around here, though. People seem to be a little bit more at ease, especially after the exam marks were posted at the end of January. A general wave of relief floated down the hallways as people realized that they weren’t going to flunk out, and people feel better knowing what they’re in for.

We have one fewer class than last term, which makes a surprising difference, although the hours not spent in class are meant to be filled with our “EP” (Entrepreneurial Project). The EP is a new business plan development project done in teams of five. At the end of the term, we’ll be pitching our plan to a small group of VCs and SBS advisors for feedback before submitting the final plan early next term.

In addition to EP teams, you have to manage up to four other study groups depending on the mix of electives you’ve chosen. Study groups seem to be a completely different creature between this term and last. Last term, I practically lived with my study group—we ate together, drank together, and edited papers on an overhead projector for hours to get the wording just right. This term, my new group has met only once, and all of our editing is happening online. It’s a different approach, but basically a necessity when you’re looking at coordinating the busy schedules of six people. So far, it seems to be working for us.