Finding a Place to Work and Putting Work in its Place: IAP 2026

Success is a tricky thing to define. Checking off boxes on a career ladder? Maybe “doing what you love”? Or getting on a 30 under 30 list? And once you’ve defined success, searching for it can leave you disillusioned, anxious, and in crisis — as most MIT students have already found out after a midnight mental breakdown.

This four-session IAP course, taught by Cullen Buie (MechE), will work through how to navigate the big questions of work, meaning, and identity. We’ll start with the big picture by evaluating several frameworks for building a meaningful life. Then, we’ll move to the practical work of designing a roadmap for the kind of success you want. 

Each week will include lecture and conversation over a catered lunch. If you’re coming, please sign up so we can have an accurate food headcount!

Fridays during IAP 2026: January 9 - 30, 2026

11am-1pm, LOCATION TBD (lunch included)