Alex Balian 340

Do you love the thrill that you get when you experience fear? Well look no further than one of the oldest countries in Europe, Spain. Running of the Bulls: Why Thrill-Seekers Flock to Pamplona Every July, in the small city of Pamplona, Spain, a vibrant mix of adrenaline, tradition, and culture draws thousands of thrill-seekers from all over the world for an event that dates back centuries: the Running of the Bulls. Known locally as Encierro , this nine-day festival is part of the larger Fiesta de San Fermín , honoring Saint Fermín, the patron saint of Navarre. What motivates these adventurers to willingly face half-ton bulls charging through narrow cobblestone streets? The answer lies in a mix of historical reverence, the allure of risk, and a profound connection to the spirit of the city itself. A Tradition Deeply Rooted in History The origins of the Running of the Bulls can be traced back to the early 14th century when farmers would herd bulls from the countryside to the city’s bullr...

Alex Balian For my Book 1 selection, I chose   Putting the Rabbit in the Hat   by Brian Cox. As a fan of the TV show Succession , I was drawn to take a look at Cox’s blend of storytelling, insights into the acting world, and personal reflections on his life. His recent portrayal of Logan Roy in   Succession (which has climbed its way up into one of my favorite shows of all time)   initially piqued my interest, and I was curious to learn more about his long and seemingly interesting career. The title of the book itself hints at the craft and magic behind his performances, which made me eager to explore how his personal experiences have influenced the characters he has brought to life on screen. So far, the book has been both engaging and candid. Cox writes with a raw, no-nonsense style that mirrors his approach to acting, reflecting on his humble and lowly beginnings in Scotland and how they shaped his views on success and fame. His novel offers an honest look at the ...

During my internship at Imperial Capital, I had the unique opportunity to work in the Mergers and Acquisitions department of the media and sports side. This department focuses on helping companies buy or merge with other companies within the sports industry. It was a fast-paced and exciting environment where every deal carried the potential to reshape entire businesses. However, given the specific department, the industry can be slow. Through this experience, I gained valuable insights into the banking industry, particularly in corporate finance, and developed skills I will carry forward in my career. Day-to-Day As an intern in M&A, my day-to-day tasks revolved around financial analysis and due diligence. One of my primary responsibilities was to help evaluate the financial health of companies and teams that were potential acquisition targets. Given that I was an intern, I was also tasked with reviewing old deals to help me understand the world I had joined. To do this, I would rev...