Colorado Leeds School of Business Application

April 1, 2009 by Andrew Hyde Posted in CU Leeds School of Business

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I’m applying to the Colorado Leeds School of Business for grad school.  I think they are fantastic.  As part of the application, they request you submit something creative:

At Leeds we live and work in one of the most entrepreneurial communities in the country and we foster an environment where creative people spur economic growth and innovation. Creativity is one of the many factors in the admission process that helps us to select the brightest, most talented and diverse candidates each year. That being said, we would like to challenge your creativity.

Pretty cool thing to have on an application, right?

It had me thinking. I’m big on openness and community. Could I have the surrounding community do short recommendations for me on my blog, twitter, brightkite etc?

I can use your help right now! Can you leave a comment on this blog, with a short recommendation on why I should get in and go to CU for grad school? I’m hoping for 100 comments in the next few hours. 

Also, if you are on twitter, hit reply and use #CU as the hashtag? ex @andrewhyde would be great at #CU because…

I’m submitting this URL in my application.  Which brings me to the second audience I am writing this post for:

A message to the nice admission folks at CU:

Hello.

Welcome to my blog.  Below are some friends that I have helped out, interacted with or met online that recommend that you accept me.  Please take a look at who they are, and what they have to say.  This is an open forum.  No moderation is taking place.

There are also comments on twitter.  And BrightKite.  And Flickr.

Thanks for taking the time to look around.

Andrew Hyde

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  • Dear CU--

    Andrew's certainly good at getting his name (and others' names) out there-- it's because he's pretty damn creative in his approach.

    In fact, I'd be surprised if you haven't heard of Andrew; he's already put on at least one event I know about at your University. I flew in from NYC to attend.

    All the best--


    `mg
  • Dear CU

    Andrew has been a substantial creative force in the Boulder and national entrepreneurial ecosphere. He's repeatedly demonstrated great creativity and leadership, and his ideas are not uncommonly mimicked by others. He would be a tremendous asset to the faculty's and student community's ongoing efforts to learn about (and disseminate) entrepreneurial expertise.
  • Jennifer Mayer
    Beside being "the best neighbor ever" and a really great guy, Andrew is one of the most innovative and creative people I have met. Over the past four years I have seen his dedication and high wok ethic demonstrated through the businesses and community events he has created and engaged in. Andrew would be an excellent addition to CU.
  • Andrew's presence on social media (blog, twitter stream, bright kite check-ins) pretty much sums up the wealth of creativity, knowledge and follow-through he has.

    He's always got a million ideas, and even better, actually implements them.

    He's not one of those people that forges ahead alone. Rather, he brings together a community of folks who in turn make the ideas grow and develop.

    He would be the perfect addition to any business school and Leeds will be lucky to have such a wonderful community builder in their program.
  • Andrew Is the internet.

    Seriously though.

    I can only add "creative, bright, motivated, and smart" to his list of accolades. His credentials speak for themselves.
  • Andrew is a super bright guy. I've known him for a couple years now. He started Startup Weekend, which I just found fascinating -- and joined his outings of it in Toronto and NYC. He's smart and has great feedback on anything; he's passionate about startups. Very down to earth, easy going, and I know he's got big plans for his life -- and making an impact on society (helping others and our environment). If Andrew were to choose you for graduate school, you'd be making out on the deal. Andrew is a connector -- he knows pretty much everyone in tech and he's going to do big things (and I know he'd love to help out future students in years to come post-grad school).
  • Dear CU --


    Andrew has been deeply involved with the Boulder startup scene, going so far as to start a program to help others meet, come together with ideas. and generally get past the inertia to try a startup (http://www.startupweekend.com). I have run into him at a few other events in the Boulder area; he has always been great at encouragement and facilitating ideas. Additionally as a present student in the MBA program at CU, I believe Andrew would be an excellent fit with the program.

    - Dan
  • Dear CU,

    There are two people in my life that I am certain will end up on the cover of Time Magazine someday - and Andrew Hyde is one of them. I first met Andrew at SXSW in 2007, and my initial reaction was here's a guy I need to watch. So, when he asked me to fly out to Boulder a couple months later for his first StartupWeekend - I immediately said yes.

    Andrew is a visionary, a thought leader, an entrepreneur, and an amazing community builder. But more importantly - even with the incredible amount of success he's achieved at such a young age - he's the most humble guy I know. You'll kick yourself later if you don't admit him to CU!

    Sincerely,
    -Erica O'Grady
  • Dear CU,

    You would be remiss not to accept Andrew into your program. First of all, we're idiots for asking you to, because that means he will spend less time in the community thinking up all the cool things he things up...but... you'd be gaining his talent.

    You can't pass that up, can you?

    Erin
  • Andrew is a rockstar. And I love him. It's not because he's hot or that I'm into that kind of thing. It's just that he's got this incredible energy, and he uses it for good every where he goes. I'm sure I've said this better somewhere else / some other time. Consider this a tribute to that better commendation, wherever it is.
  • Dear CU,

    Andrew smuggled a unicorn into his the panel he was speaking on at 2008's SXSW. If that's not ingenuity, CU should be actively recruiting I don't know what is. Not only should you admit Andrew, but you should give him a full ride and a stipend to TA.

    <img src="http://blog.wired.com/underwire/images/2008/03/07/unicorn_6.jpg" alt="" width="" height="" border="0" />

    I know! I thought unicorns were extinct too.

    Best,
    j
  • nancy compton
    Colorado Leeds School of Business:

    Andrew Hyde knows how to bring ideas and concepts into reality. He has spearheaded and facilitated sell out events that provide a platform for the sharing of new ideas / concepts and exposure for entrepreneurs.

    Andrew's approach of inclusion has elevated an already vibrant local tech scene beyond its own community into the broader community of Boulder. His efforts have created a draw for out of town talent to make the move to our fair city. I believe his contributions also promote interest in our youth to learn more about what is coming next in technology and to become the start-up founders of the future. All good for this little place we call home.

    Shooting for Andrew's acceptance into the graduate program!

    Nancy Compton
  • Andrew Hyde not only has great hair, but he works really hard at helping other people succeed and that's really cool.

    A lot of people in this world are simply out for themselves, but not Andrew. In addition to working with TechStars, he founded Startup Weekend as a means of helping people everywhere establish communities that foster entrepreneurship and innovation. How cool is that? And, he did it without a graduate degree. Imagine what a big, fancy education from the Colorado Leeds School of Business could do for him and the world!!!
  • hey cu -

    there are hundreds of people who gather monthly at the law school to discuss new emerging technology in the boulder/denver community. this gathering is exploding. it's just started an offshoot monthly meeting in denver. the boulder one "sells out" immediately after opening and now even the overflow rooms are full. it's a huge statement about the strength of the boulder tech community.

    while this is the success of the entire boulder community, there are a handful of people whose work has had an outsized influence on creating this environment. if you were to build that list of people, every one of them would tell you to put andrew on there.
  • Dear CU --

    In your application, you mention how Leeds is located in one of the most entrepreneurial communities in the country. At the heart of that community are many great individuals - among them is Andrew Hyde.

    I won't go into detail about his resume because I'm sure you have a copy of that. What I want to discuss is something that may slip through the cracks in that resume - implied in his many activities but maybe not something that would get lost during a quick glance or over-shadowed by his accomplishments. It's simply this: Andrew is the type of person that tries to make the people around him better. He is an advocate for the community Leeds calls home. He's someone that will pull you aside to offer honest advice. He is someone that - even in the promotion of his own interests and agendas - tries to elevate those around him. These are qualities that an admission staff should look for in a student - knowing full well that Andrew's creativity and passion will not only bring CU and Leeds success through association with his name, but also great success because he will help elevate and inspire his fellow students during and after his time there.

    One last thing - I think confidence is a great indicator of potential for success. How many applications out there would feel comfortable crowd-sourcing recommendations to the anonymity and void of the internet? That confidence in his ability alone should speak to the type of applicant that Andrew is. Your decision should be an easy one...
  • Andrew should get into CU because after everything he's done for the tech/entrepreneur community, he deserves to get something back. Everything the guy does is dedicated to helping others get a leg up. He's bright, he's dedicated, and he's one of the most genuine people I've ever met.

    You won't be disappointed.
  • Dear CU—

    Andrew Hyde is one of the most talented and dedicated entrepreneurs I've ever known. He is one of the most prolific members of the Boulder startup community, and I would attribute a lot of its growth to his work, especially TechStars and Startup Weekend.

    Having met Andrew personally, I can say that he is an extremely knowledgeable guy... if that wasn't completely apparent from his past experience and writings on this weblog.

    Andrew isn't just a big shot in the Boulder startup community. Respected by people around the world, Andrew is one of the major movers and shakers in entrepreneurship globally.

    Best regards,
    Mark Bao
  • Nicole
    As a CU MBA Alum - I would certainly recommend Andrew. Although I don't know him personally - I heard about his experiment for getting recommendations on Twitter. Great creativity!

    Kudos Andrew!
  • Andrew is a big reason the Boulder startup scene isn't a scene. Boulder is unique because we view one startup's success as success for all. Why? Andrew. It's his selfless collaboration, connecting and promotion that makes everyone more successful.

    In the past couple years he's thrown himself fully into the mix and invigorated a city and an industry. Pretty heady stuff given our economic woes.

    Just as he's done for the startup scene in Boulder he will do for CU Leeds.
  • Nick
    Dear CU-
    I met Andrew at a Startup Weekend in Bloomington, Indiana. We talked and had interesting discussions throughout the weekend and I can all but guarantee that he'll be a great addition to your school.
    @Nick_
  • In many ways I've been extremely disappointed with Andrew. I am disappointed that he didn't try to sell out using the Start-up Weekend concept. I am disappointed that he refuses to settle down and focus on one idea. I'm disappointed in his unassuming, humble and distinctly un-business-like demeanor (amplified by his Conan-esque stature). I am alarmed (frankly) by his understated confidence and initiative... learn to respect-nay fear!-your elders young man. And finally, I'm seriously disappointed that he never listens to my voice mails, thus forcing me to tweet, text, upload, post or change my status just to get noticed!! I sincerely hope that all of you over at the business school can turn this misguided kid around... teach him the value of a dollar (regardless of social cost), teach him to quit questioning the status quo and for gods sake make him wear a suit! (preferably from Penny's or Target)
  • christian briggs
    Dear CU,

    By admitting Andrew to CU, you will have, in one fell swoop, added new, challenging perspectives to your program and increased your ability to build both internal and external community. I had Andrew as an undergrad student in 2003, and i would have him again.

    I would highly recommend that you do the same.
  • Meg
    Andrew Hyde will bring three things to your community that will benefit every student who attends:

    1. A genuine love of entrepreneurship: He urges people to follow their business goals and dreams, and seeks to facilitate the process every step of the way.

    2. A genuine love of the community: Andrew is ridiculously social, but more than that, he actively pursues the stories and and ideas of those around him.

    3. A genuine love of learning -- Andrew craves travel, new experiences, new perspectives, and personal growth -- and encourages others to stretch their boundaries, as well.

    He'll inspire you if you let him -- and by accepting him into your class, you'll give him that opportunity.
  • Gavin Doughtie
    I met Andrew at two of the startup weekends in 2007, and he co-presented a half-day workshop with me at OSCON, the Open-Source conference, last year. I spoke about technical approaches to startup weekends, but Andrew got a big room (100+ people including Tim O'Reilly) excited about and working together on their own projects. And, he made it all seem easy and fun.
  • CU. What's Up?

    Andrew is already a respected worldwide voice in the entrepreneurial community. Accepting him -- and using his voice -- will help you grow your program. Him attending your program -- and using your tools -- will help him grow into a better entrepreneur (presumably). It seems like these mutually beneficial relationships are what you're after... so I figure it'd be a good move.

    Accept Andrew. Expect Greatness.
  • Dear CU,

    Andrew's smart. He knows a lot of things. But that's not why you should accept him. In fact, that's probably why you shouldn't accept a few others. Anyway, it's Andrew's passion and curiosity that completely validate his candidacy to your school. If you pride yourself on the entrepreneurial community you foster and the innovation you spark, admitting Andrew just makes sense.

    It's not with lofty words or eloquent metaphors that I beseech you, but it's with Andrew's rare talent, endless network, cunning wit, diversified experience, undying creativity, and compelling mind that I urge you to admit him. It was because of Andrew that I became better connected with my local community in Houston. Yes, it's odd that someone from Denver brought me closer to my Houston 'peeps,' but it's insanely true. His Startup Weekend stop in Houston completely opened my eyes to the tech community here and the larger web sphere.

    What better testament to your program than to admit someone who lives your mission? I can only imagine that it would further it greatly. While I wish I could wave a magic wand and help him bypass this process, I hope that you see the outpouring and reach Andrew has achieved this early in his career and life. Actually, some might call this outpouring a 'magic wand,' as how many others could get a diverse group of people from around the world to do respond in this magnatude? I'll answer that for you: not many.

    I'll leave you with this: I'd rather have one person with a magic wand in my camp than 100 people without it any day. ;) Do the right thing. Keep hope alive. Admit Andrew Hyde.

    Thanks,
    Chris Pitre
  • I guess the ingenuity of this very post and of rattling up tens of mini- (or not so mini-) references with a few sentences i.e. having a maximum impact with minimum effort confirms why he should be accepted and reminds me of the impression I got from AH when I met him in Athens, Greece during the Startup Weekend he helped organise there. He's a creative enabler - someone who gets things done by understanding new situations and allowing them to work for him.
  • Just being associated with TechStars is enough reason to accept Andrew. You learn more, see more, and do more at little startups than any other kind of business.

    Andrew not only thinks constantly and deeply about issues of design, business, and conduct, he uses this blog (among other things) to spread the word to others.

    On more than one occasion his words have caused me to think or rethink a position. That's a complement in itself.

    It's hard to imagine how accepting Andrew would NOT improve the quality of work and discussion at CU!
  • Orn
    Nice one Andrew, how could they not accept you, that would be Epic fail. Nough said....

    Keep up the good work, when is next Ignite Boulder again ?

    Orn
  • I have had the pleasure of knowing Andrew Hyde for over three years now, first working with him on one of the very first Startup Weekend events and since on a number of projects.

    Andrew will freely admit he is not the best designer in the world, creativity if you were to define creativity in a very traditional manner - logo's, graphics, artwork. Andrew does produce good design work and his photography has been improving, but this is not really where Hyde excels.

    Where Hyde excels is in the application of creativity into a very large number of unique areas. From the creation of a marketing plan for a startup with no money, to the development of a modern business model, Andrew Hyde brings creativity to whatever he does. Driven by enthusiasm, a willingness to experiment - "fail fast" as he puts it, and raw talent Andrew creates a unique angle on everything he does.

    The creative spark can be addictive but it is never enough and so I am happy that Hyde does not just stop there. The long hours, and up against great odds work ethic of the startup life, is ingrained deep into Hyde and it helps the creative works he produces to become something more, something that impacts the world communities around him.

    Paul Roales
    Pearl Street Venture Funds
  • CU -

    No offense, but I'm shocked to hear that Andrew is hoping to attend grad school. Last time I checked, similarly-minded creative people were ditching out on formal education to form silly companies like Apple.

    Andrew - are you sure this is what you want?
  • Andrew more than fits the profile for the type of student you are looking for. Innovative, Entrepreneurial, Creative, highly gifted and skilled.

    This should be a easy decision for you guys. DO IT! :)
  • Andrew is an inspiration to young innovators and community builders. His work has reached far and wide, and his positive contributions to Colorado Leeds School of Business will be great, I am sure.
  • Hans
    Looking back on my own MBA experience, I learned as much from fellow students as I did from professors and course materials. Andrew will be the type of student all others in the program will benefit from.
  • Colorado Leeds School of Business:

    Andrew Hyde would be an excellent addition to your business school. What I admire most about Andrew is that he sees what needs to be done - at work or in the community - and he simply gets it done. It's a rare trait to see.

    I've also had the pleasure to work with Andrew on TechStars and appreciate his passion and commitment to not only TechStars but the greater Boulder community leader. There is no project that Andrew does not hesitate to tackle. In a few short months, he helped create one of the best attended events in the city - Boulder Ignite.

    I know colleges look for well roundedness and leadership, and no one exemplifies these two traits more then Andrew. I really hope you accept Andrew because if he were to attend another school, it would be a huge loss to our Boulder community.
  • If there's a next big thingy in the internet it's likely going to come out of Andrew Hyde's head. Business school would actually help make such a hypothetical project take off.
  • Dear Leeds School of Business,

    You have before you a candidate that embodies the sense of entrepreneurialism in the best possible form you could ask for: by combining a keen business sense with an engaged consideration of the best possibilities, he empowers and inspires everyone in his wake.

    Accomplishments are one thing, and while he has many, one only need sit with Andrew for a moment to see that at the heart of his work is a simple concept: how it will strengthen the people and community around him. Your students, staff and our community on the whole would not only be the benefactors of what he'll do next, but also, the emboldened, positive influence he'll impart on all those around him.

    He chooses to come to Leeds - but rest assured, any school would be thrilled to add him into their student body. You'd be lucky to call him one of your own.

    Deb Kolaras
    Boulder, Colorado
  • Dar Coumans
    Dear CU Leeds School of Business:

    I am acquainted with Andrew Hyde digitally. His contribution to the entrepreneurial community and the ongoing consistency of his participation speak to a high degree of personal integrity and ethics as well as a native intelligence and natural leadership. Andrew is capable of great things. He will be an strong asset to any institution that chooses his participation for many years to come. His roots in the Boulder start-up community make Leeds an ideal choice, where he can leverage his current connections and accomplishments. I highly recommend including Andrew Hyde in your programme.

    Yours very sincerely,

    Dar Coumans
    Digital Village
  • jennyjenjen
    Dear CU,

    As a CU student myself, and having known Andrew for four years, I can't think of a better place for Andrew, nor can I think of a better candidate for your graduate program.

    Simply put, Andrew has used his creativity to combine entrepreneurship and community in a way that I have never before seen. Wherever Andrew has gone, he has made the same kind of positive, refreshing and innovative impact on that community as he has accomplished in Boulder. I'm proud to have been able to get to know him, and you will be, too.

    Thanks,
    Jennifer Newell
  • Dear CU,

    Andrew is one of those people you look forward to seeing at all industry events because of his enthusiasm for the start-up community and his unique, creative perspective on... well, everything. His passion for entrepreneurship and new experiences is contagious. There is no doubt he will be an exceptional addition to the Leeds School of Business.

    And after reading this page, it would clearly be an embarrassment not to have Andrew as part of your program.

    Regards,
    Jen
  • Dear Leeds,

    It is absolutely clear in my mind why you should accept Andrew Hyde - he has a massive posse of concerned startup denizens prepared to storm the Koebel building if he isn't accepted. Not only do you have an army of Boulderites to contend with, but also all of his numerous supporters around the world.

    See those 7,000+ followers he has on twitter? Now imagine them with pitchforks, ripping up the lovely Engebretson Quad. Not a pretty sight. This is worse than a zombine invasion - you simply can't run faster than the well trained, athletic Boulderites who love and admire Andrew.

    As an undergrad in the Leeds School of Business, I would really rather not see such a horde of Andrew-worshipers descend on my lovely school should you not matriculate Mr. Hyde. Can you take that risk? I think not.

    Best,
    Cameron Robertson
  • Andrew is simply brilliant.

    Already he has established himself as one of the drivers behind Boulder's entrepreneurial community and new economic growth.

    He understands how openness and community are reshaping the business world.

    If you are looking for a candidate ready to rock the world with innovation and creativity, Andrew should be at the top of your list.
  • smazurov
    Hello CU.

    Andrew Hyde has demonstrated time and time again his ability to adapt and try new things. He went from a designer (an awesome one at that) working for one of most demanding and successful marketing agencies to starting successful businesses at the back of coffee shops. All along the way and now more than ever Andrew manages to do amazing things for our Boulder and worldwide entrepreneurial communities with a movement he has begun with Startup Weekend. Now nearly every week one happens somewhere in the globe where people come together and create a business from scratch in 3 days. There is not a better candidate for your well-respected Graduate Program.

    I hope you can dedicate some time to look deeper into Andrews application in hopes that you will be able to see what he has accomplished and see the potential that everyone commenting here has already seen.

    Thank you for your time,
    Stepan Mazurov
  • Susan
    Dear CU,

    Andrew is one of the smartest, most creative, and most innovative people I know. He craves challenge in his life, has an innate ability to lead others, and has spent years acquiring entrepreneurial experience that will allow him to begin your program with an incredible foundation of experience.

    He is also fiercely loyal. I am confident that if your program teaches him something, he will reciprocate by helping the program identify other promising candidates, adding to the school's connections in the local tech community, raising the profile of the program, and by teaching his classmates and professors as much as they teach him.
  • Derrell Durrett
    To the Leads School of Business:

    Andrew Hyde is possibly the most dynamic individual I have ever met, and since I was a graduate student in Physics at CU when Carl Weiman was a new member of the faculty, I think that's saying something. He is constantly engaged with the people around him in trying to create an environment that maximizes everyone's contribution to the endeavor at hand.

    In my experience, the best students for any school are those from whom the other students will learn as much as they will from the faculty. Andrew's experience (he's possibly started more companies than I've worked for), and the other testimonials on this site, should leave you with no question as to the value he will bring. Accepting Andrew's contributions will bring attention to the Leeds School of Business even before he has you renaming it the Hyde-Leeds School of Entrepreneurial Endeavors.

    Derrell Durrett
    Ph.D., Physics, 1993
  • Dear CU Admissions,

    Andrew opened my eyes to the true meaning of community. He is absolutely selfless in everything he does. His projects all operate around the idea of building strong communities. In Boulder he is constantly putting on events that 200 people working in Boulder will attend. His following is genuinely build around his enthusiasm toward life.

    He would, without a doubt, bring the same enthusiasm to CU. It is an attitude that is infectious and he would certainly affect the people around him to bring the same attitude.

    Brandon Whalen
    Social Community Manager
    Room 214
    Boulder, CO
    whalenbra@gmail.com
  • gist
    Hello Colorado Leads School of Business.

    Andrew is all of the above, awesome, smart and the internet. He is.

    From a personal stand point, quite simply put, I appreciate Andrew most for his honest perspective on things. He knows his facts from his opinions and can use each together in well-poised, intelligent conversation. That's a great trait to have and invaluable for friendship and business.

    You'll be glad you accepted him.
  • Dear Diary,

    I have a confession, and I know I can tell you. I've secretly always wanted Andrew Hyde to be in the Colorado Leeds School of Business. Ever since the day I met him I've known that he is all business. For example, remember that time I went with him on that trip? We flew Business! I'm telling you, business is his thing! I'm crossing my fingers and hoping that he gets in. I'll keep you posted. Until next time....

    Yours Truly,
    Rachel Renee
  • Dear CU Leeds School of Business-

    Andrew is exactly the kind of guy you want in your graduate program. He's smart, funny, social, and perhaps most importantly, he gets things done. I've not met a more motivated, genuine individual, much less in someone so relatively young.

    Andrew is incredibly adept at bringing people together to create community. Combining this with his seemingly innate skill at creating successful businesses, he is the perfect match for your esteemed program.

    I'm not the first to say it, but I probably won't be the last either: You'll be glad you accepted him. He will do the school proud.

    Best regards,
    Jared Kohlmann
  • Good luck Andrew!! I have had many friends and a co-founder go to the CU business program. They have all loved it and come out very sharp! Great school and a great potential student.. sounds like a match to me!

    CU, Andrew is for you!!
  • CU admissions,

    By this point you probably realize that Andrew has a lot of friends who have his back. The reason he has that is because he has given the last few years of his life helping others, promoting entrepreneurship and building the community here in Boulder. I'm convinced there is no better candidate for your program. You better snap him up while you have a chance!

    Josh Fraser
  • CU -

    I can't believe Andrew's going to grad school, you're lucky to get him (he'll probably generate 4-5x the tuition he's paying in PR value :)

    But, enough, creativity eh?

    *Andrew built this company in 7 hours on a plane, doing the designs himself. Now it's a huge hit and all sorts of famous industry folks wear the shirts.
    *He founded Startup Weekend which has spread worldwide like wildfire.
    *He has consistently advocated on behalf of his community.
    *Andrew wrote this blog post to apply to grad school

    I think you'd be smart to accept him.
  • A significant part of the business school culture is networking. Clearly AH has mastered that art with the above. I strongly encourage his acceptance and know it would be an excellent investment for your program.
  • Dear CU,

    As a native Boulder resident and fellow CU alumna, I am honored to recommend Andrew Hyde to the Leeds School of Business graduate program. Boulder is indeed "one of the most entrepreneurial communities in the country," and I can attest that Andrew is one of the most community-driven and community-fostering people in Boulder.

    Andrew's ability to organize and ignite others to be proactively involved in their respective communities, entrepreneurial or otherwise, has been recognized and applauded by people across the globe.

    Andrew is bright and friendly, and his charisma is magnetic. He will be a valued addition to your program.

    Respectfully,
    Heather Capri Buna
    Electrical Engineering, 2004
  • lizwalk
    Dear CU,

    As a CU alum with both undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University, I heartily recommend Andrew Hyde. His creativity and connection to the world of NOW is what is sorely needed at my alma mater. His ability to organize and execute strategy in the start-up world is amazing. You will be lucky to get him. Plus the PR value of his attendance at Leeds will increase the college's relevance in today's business environment.

    Liz Walker
  • Admissions officer,
    Leeds School of Business

    Andrew Hyde has many of those qualities which simply can't be taught, and which are key to a successful entrepreneur and businessperson.

    Andrew manages diverse and complex relationships from a personal through to business acquaintance level with panache, experience and a professional balance which is an extremely rare commodity. His personality is magnetic and approachable, and his enthusiasm engenders the same in those who work with him.

    His professionalism is undeniable, yet his personability invites people to take steps beyond their comfort zone. He both encourages and incites confidence in those around him.

    As a current graduate student at CU, I believe Andrew exemplifies qualities directly in line with those sought by the University in achieving its Flagship 2030 goals. I am very pleased to be able to recommend Andrew for admission to your program.


    Joanne White
    Graduate Student/ TA
    School of Journalism and Mass Communication
    University of Colorado at Boulder
  • Hi from Athens, Greece, I happen to met Andrew in the Start-up Weekend he organized in Athens and I was happy enough to spent some time with him, discussing -among others- how to create the "Start-up MBA" (a longer version of a Start-up Weekend).
    To put it simply, Andrew is an enabler and if I were you I'd not just accept his application, but in parallel I'd hire him to bring my students closer to the fantastic world of entrepreneurship; the rest being history.
  • Alex B.
    Dear CU Admissions,

    Despite knowing Andrew purely from his online presence (this blog, Twitter, Flickr, etc.), I would highly recommend that you admit him into your program. As you will see, he is exceptionally creative, hard working, informative, and helpful. The skill set that he displays on a daily basis (everything from clear, concise writing to masterful networking), and his proven track record for success, leaves no doubt in my mind that he will thrive in your graduate program.

    AB
  • Dear CU Admissions,

    Andrew is driven. I have no doubt he'll be a very successful business student who'll one day donate libraries, computer labs and maybe even an international airport to the Leeds School of Business.

    Accepting him will be a good investment.

    Just do it!
  • Larry McKeogh
    Dear CU Admission Folks:
    You should snap Andrew Hyde up without reservation. As you have read from the comments above and those sure to follow Andrew is an eclectic individual. He buoys those around him either physically or mentally which has helped raise the Boulder Tech community to national status.

    I for one would hate to have him apply and accept an opportunity outside of Boulder. This town would take a step backwards. I am speaking as a graduate whose has observed many changes over the years in Boulder.

    Larry McKeogh
    CU - BSEE, 1994
  • Honestly, I think Startup Weekend alone should be enough to get you in. There are many things a School of Business can and should learn from innovative, creative thinkers (and DOers!) like yourself.

    So in advance, cograts on getting in!
  • I'm literally Andrew's next door neighbor, and I've learned a lot about modern community from him in several novel ways. First, when I started digging into social media, I immediately found how engaged Andrew was in the medium via Brightkite, after plugging in my own address there, and finding his footprints. Wow. This whole process has actually made me more social in the real world, which is exactly why I'm now a proponent of social media.

    So I might not have gotten to know and 'follow' @andrewhyde, and lots of other people, if not for his example. Do you know anyone so creative that they're able to drag their semi-hermit neighbors out of their cave by example alone?

    Since then, I've followed Andrew on Twitter, LinkedIn, Brightkite, Facebook...(what else?) and it's inspiring! Plus, we're not the kind of neighbors that walk past each other silently anymore, because I KNOW him, and learn from him, and want to be part of the community web he weaves so charismatically.

    He's a bonus to my little community here in West Boulder, right next to the mountain, and trails, and we've been circling each other on a few minor community-building projects both online and off. Who better to represent Leeds as a stellar example of creativity, commitment, and engagement?

    Andrew, thanks for the almost-instantaneous reply regarding our housing issue tonight via Twitter DM. It'll be nice to have your input on that.
  • To the Admissions Committee, Colorado Leeds School of Business:

    If you've read this far, you are already aware that Mr. Hyde is well regarded by his peers, his community, and those who have had the pleasure to work with him. Additionally, you are also aware that he is approaching your application process as he does any other new challenge - with the refreshing creativity and ingenuity to engineer not only successful results, but also through enlisting the aid of those around him to make sure that the solution encompasses many viewpoints.

    It has been my pleasure to recommend Andrew in more than one situation to someone as yet unfamiliar with his genius. I am happy to say that in the instances where I have, he has never let me down and has exceeded the expectations of those who have taken my recommendation.

    Mr. Hyde is the sort of original thinker who many describe as someone who "thinks outside the box." I'd go so far as to say that they are understating his viewpoint. He doesn't merely think "outside" the box - he sees the box, realizes where it can be improved and where its strengths are, constructs a new box incorporating those strengths while replacing the weaknesses with innovative new ideas, and then teaches others to use the box in ways they hadn't previously considered.

    Would he provide an asset to your Graduate Program? Undoubtedly. I'm sure that it won't take very long for his fellow classmates and instructors to agree once they've worked with him.

    Best,
    L. M. Pruitt
  • I've known Andrew Hyde since Jan '08, when I met him at Seattle Startup Weekend. Since then, he has continually impressed me by hs ability to take an idea, develop it, get others to buy into and support it, and make something happen. In addition to Startup Weekend, his work with Boulder.me, the tech talent recruiting/networking let's-bring-talent-to-Boulder event, strengthened the ties within the local entrepenurial community as well as introduced talent to Boulder and vice versa.

    He can engage on a highly intellectual level and I expect he'll have interesting perspectives to add in a classroom -- or a hallway. Andrew doesn't do things the hard way or the easy way; he does things the right way, a way driven by thoughtful action and values.

    He'll continue to do great things, and I very much look forward to seeing them unfold.
  • I can't think of a better place for Andrew than Leeds. Going to such a fantastic business school will help bring Andrew's business Acumen to the next level.

    And, I also can't think of a better applicant to CU than Andrew. Andrew is smart, creative , and thoughtful. He will truly make a great student, and mentor to other students.
  • CU Admissions,

    You cannot find a better candidate for your program than Andrew. His talent and inspiration of bringing communities together to create sustainable business is remarkable.

    Bringing him to your community will help him to learn and inspire other students as well.

    I wholeheartedly recommend his placement.
  • CU Adminssions, please do not accept Andrew Hyde. For if you do, he will have substantially less time to devote to organizing startup weekends, ad hoc conferences, social outings, communal hack sessions, evangelizing the Boulder community and startup scene, and offering insightful opinions, advice, and help to those in need.

    Do NOT take our startup leader!

    On second thought, maybe you should. I wouldn't want him forced out of town in pursuit of an MBA....
  • jonnygoldstein
    Andrew is one of the most creative, smart, and generous people I know. It reflects well on Leeds that Andrew has decided that graduate work in your program is a good fit for his goals and aptitudes.

    Best of luck in being able to attract Andrew to your program. If he applies elsewhere, those other programs will do their best to seduce him away from you.
  • Just by looking at how many positive recommendations have been given is such short a time gives you a small sense of how many people Andrew has collaborated with, helped in some way, or inspired etc.

    Andrew is a rare fellow who is is kind, intelligent, creative and remarkably accomplished . He's a sure boon to any project and will be a valued asset at your program while he's there and for many years beyond.
  • To any admissions personnel at the Leeds School of Business, and anybody else who happens by:

    Hi! My name is Lisa Williams, and I got to know Andrew during the summer of 2008 when I was participating in a Boulder, CO-based startup incubator program called TechStars.

    What impressed me about Andrew was his commitment to what might be called a "startup way of life." I learned about his involvement with Startup Weekend, and TechStars, and his own independent projects, some of which were commercial and some of which weren't.

    Andrew frequently volunteered his time, talent, and efforts to others' startups, and as a result he's in a unique position: he's probably seen far more innovative web initiatives, commercial and noncommercial, than the average person.

    Harvard could have him; the MIT Sloan School could have him -- but Leeds ought to have him because of his commitment to the Boulder startup scene. I'd be perplexed if he wasn't accepted.

    Best,

    Lisa Williams
    Placeblogger.com
  • Dear CU:

    Andrew is a huge part of the Boulder startup community. He organizes many local events and puts his heart and soul into each one. Startup Weekend, his creation, has become a worldwide phenomenon. His work at TechStars has been strong - he's helped make us more accessible to the world by being out IN the world. If anyone understands the spirit of entrepreneurship, it's Andrew.

    Take a chance on Andrew. It's a small chance. It will pay off.
  • Jan Kabili
    I've known and admitted Andrew Hyde for several years. He is a special person--creative, charismatic, and wise beyond his years. He would be a true asset to your school.
  • I had the pleasure of working and traveling with Andrew in the UK, some of his partners in the US, and in New Zealand. Conversations with him reveal both a broad perspective of his industry and an uncommon depth of insight.

    Perhaps more importantly, he's fantastic at execution - Andrew will either tear into a project himself, find someone who can help make it happen, and get it done.

    World-renowned alchemist. Would work with again, A++++.
  • I know it can be cliché sometimes to say that someone thinks differently, but Andrew truly does. His ability to look at a situation, product, company, whatever and come up with new and creative thoughts and input toward solving problems or achieving goals always amazes me. I think the only way he's able to do that is his passion for doing good work and his passion for connecting and helping people.
  • Jed White
    To the good folks at Leeds,

    You already say that Boulder is one of the most entrepreneurial communities in the country.

    Well, Andrew is one of the reasons why.

    My partner and I moved here from the other side of the planet to launch a new startup for just that reason. The whole community has been incredibly welcoming. But Andrew has just been amazing. Between his blog, his tweets, Ignite and hackspace and startupweekend and everything else he does, he's part of the glue and the spark for the local startup community.

    Being a startup entrepreneur can be lonely. Trying to meet people and break into a new community can be tough. Andrew has made both easier.

    He lives and breathes entrepreneurship every day in the most practical way imaginable.

    For him to be part of the entrepreneurship program at CU would just be the rightest thing in the world.

    All the best,
    Jed
  • My B-school experience taught me that to be successful, one has to have the capability to make something out of nothing. Andrew has an outstanding track record of being able to make a whole lot of things out of nothing. There are numerous examples, however, Startup Weekend and Techstars are two example that I have witnessed first hand. Andrew's leadership skills, community organization skills and creativity will be a great asset to your B-school class and the University as a whole.
  • Leeds folk,

    I met Andrew at OSCON 2008 and have been following him ever since. His blog is an indispensable resource for up-and-coming entrepreneurs, and he's always excited to help out when I write to him. Trust me, you want him as much as he wants you.

    --Robby
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