Aaorn

Introduction

  • Name: Aaron William Shields, significance of middle name being the fifth William in his family.

  • Hometown: Bloomington, Illinois, population around 200,000.

  • Field of Study: Finance and Risk Management.

  • Job Placement Rate: 100% for risk management major since it's only four years old.

Background and Education

  • High School Experience:

    • Attended a small school with approximately 250 students and a graduating class of 66.

    • Discussion on college attendance rates among classmates:

      • About half went to four-year colleges, a quarter to junior colleges, and a quarter enlisted in the military or entered the workforce.

    • Reflects on personal insights gained from diverse backgrounds of peers.

  • Family Background:

    • Parents are college-educated, first-generation graduates, both working at State Farm:

      • Father: IT professional responsible for building websites.

      • Mother: HR professional managing internal conflict within teams.

    • Younger sister, a junior in high school, potential car acquisition upon her graduation.

Adjusting to College Life

  • Transition to Butler University:

    • Contrast between small high school (66 students) and Butler (4,000).

    • Importance of familiar faces in a larger environment.

    • Factors influencing choice of Butler over other universities:

      • Preference for smaller classrooms and settings, appreciating the blend of small school intimacy with larger school opportunities (e.g., sports).

  • Reflection on College Tours:

    • Comparison with a large school during a tour at Illinois, realizing the overwhelming size of classes.

Personality and Traits

  • Self-Identification:

    • Views himself as embodying courage, striving to push boundaries and seek challenges.

    • Adrenaline-seeking with experiences such as triathlons, motorcycle licensing, and skydiving planned.

  • Travel Experiences:

    • Notable trip to the South of France, highlights the beauty of the location.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Weaknesses:

    • Tendency to overcommit to activities and responsibilities.

    • Struggles with saying no; learning to prioritize commitments to maintain quality engagement.

  • Strengths:

    • Strong communication skills, which he is actively working to enhance for better boundary-setting.

    • Good at socializing and connecting with peers on campus and within social circles.

Ideal Environment and Social Dynamics

  • Desired Environment:

    • Thrives in situations where he can be both alone for routine and surrounded by motivated peers.

    • Believes in the impact of the company one keeps on personal growth, encouraging an environment of challenge and motivation.

Hobbies and Interests

  • Poker Enthusiasm:

    • Enjoyment of poker, stressing that financial stakes enhance the experience (even low amounts).

    • Believes the significance of 'sweat in the game' adds excitement.

    • Enjoys watching poker, particularly final tables, and has a unique habit of watching poker videos in the shower as a way to learn more about the game.