2023 was full of change: A promotion, a layoff, interesting consulting projects in the generative AI space. A new family member, Francesca, a transition from Spanish immersion daycare to German preschool for Lucas. A major construction project... Overall, there are many things to be thankful for and we're excited about what 2024 holds in store. Therefore, per tradition, I want to share this year's highlights with you.
JANUARY
When I moved to San Francisco in 2015, the Sushi Girls were born: A group of smart German women who network over Sushi.
FEBRUARY
Baby moon with a toddler: We spent the long weekend over Presidents' Day in Tomales and Tomales Bay.
MARCH
After almost a year of data gathering and pitching a robust business plan, I got promoted to lead Course Hero's international expansion. Little did I know that my team would be impacted by layoffs after just a few months...
I shared a few thoughts about tech layoffs with German media:
- HR2 DER TAG: LEBBE GEHT WEITER
- WDR 5: HIRE AND FIRE IM SILICON VALLEY
- HANDELSBLATT RETHINK WORK: SCHWANGER, JOB WEG – UND FROH: KATI SCHMIDT AUS SAN FRANCISCO ÜBER IHRE ENTLASSUNG
- HANDELSBLATT: ENTLASSUNGEN DER TECHRIESEN TREIBEN DIE INNOVATION
- DEUTSCHE WELLE: VOLATILITY IS AN ‚OPPORTUNITY‘ FOR STARTUPS
APRIL
It is fun to explore cultural holidays and traditions through the eyes of a child, so we didn't think twice when Carlos' colleague invited us to his family's annual easter egg hunt at his Hillsborough farm. Turns out I still know how to spot some colorful eggs.
MAY
Welcome to the world, Francesca! We're so excited - and exhausted - now that you are here.
JUNE
The future is here: Five years ago, I first experienced a self driving Waymo ride. Back then, there was a human as a backup driver who had to interfere a few times as we got stuck in traffic. This time the robot was in full control. The ride felt almost boring and safe.
JULY
Lucas turned three. We're impressed with what a gentle big brother he is, enjoy his fun mix of Spanish, English and German and are proud that he (almost) mastered potty training.
AUGUST
Lucas started at Kinderhaus, German preschool. He enjoys being part of a small group of nine children and four teachers, started speaking German to me, enjoys the arts, craft and baking, soccer on Tuesdays and socializing with his new friends.
SEPTEMBER
After a long winded process, the Building Department approved our permit and green lit our major remodeling project. Finally! Carlos couldn't wait for the construction to start, I cannot wait for it to be done.
OCTOBER
Francesca started at daycare with Mony & Lily. They have been like family to us, Lucas had a great time there, picked up his Spanish and manners, potty training and spent the night when Francesca was born. She will be so spoiled.
NOVEMBER
Since I moved to the US, fall is my favorite time of the year thanks to Halloween, Thanksgiving and pumpkin patches. Per tradition we celebrated Friendsgiving with our closest German friends in the Bay Area. Earlier in the month, a delegation from my alma mater, Hamburg Media School, was in town and I was happy to host them here in Silicon Valley.
DECEMBER
December was a busy month with all the festivities around Nikolaus, St. Martin and Christmas. Despite the job market cooling down towards the end of the year, I am helping You.com with their initial outreach and actively interviewing at a few tech companies. And I finally got around to getting my right ear (otosclerosis) operated on - with success: My hearing has already improved tremendously. My good friends Kerstin & Henry got married in SF City Hall asked me to be their witness, which I happily accepted.
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