Cookie and Lunch Breaks at the MPA Office

In my previous post, I highlighted some perks about being an MPA wherein I focused on tangible goodies like laptop rentals, nameplates, and the lounge. However, there are many more reasons that I am proud to be an MPA, namely the constant and varied opportunities to learn new things outside of the classroom. Specifically, I have enjoyed the opportunity to interact with accounting professors during cookie breaks and faculty lunches hosted by the MPA Office in their conference room. At cookie breaks the office provides a delicious variety from Tiff’s Treats, established in 1999 by two UT sophomores from their dorm room oven. For lunches, an assortment of sandwiches from Jason’s Deli is provided. Though yummy, the focus here is not on the food, but rather the interaction with the faculty.

Most recently, I joined Professor Michael Granof for lunch, wherein he discussed his background (he has been at UT since the 1970s!) and current projects including his position on the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB). Dr. Granof relayed stories of sitting in deliberation for hours on end with his fellow board members, discussing a new standard. At the beginning of his tenure in 2010, he initially found the proceedings quite tedious. With some time, however, he found the gradual and detailed conversations to be not only useful but necessary. Standards setting is a high-stakes and complex process with nuances and implications that should be given fair and thorough thought. Each board member brings a unique viewpoint to be considered and in the end, a unified compromise must be made. Dr. Granof remarked that at first it was difficult to let go of objectives he held dear to his heart and make such compromises but in the end, one “cannot let the perfect stand in the way of the good.” This sentiment struck a cord with me as its application certainly extends beyond the GASB board room and into our every day lives. Dr. Granof certainly got me thinking and I look forward to attending another cookie break or lunch at the office soon.

On a completely unrelated note, one of my most recent Austin adventures was to Allen’s on South Congress. I was considering making my Texan-hood official with a pair of cowboy boots but didn’t bite the bullet this time. I will definitely be back if not to seal the deal, to ensconce myself once again in that velvety leather smell. I suggest you check out this Austin staple and their 4,000+ boots on display.

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