My agency wanted to engage colleges and universities in ways that we have not done before in an impactful way. The AEF provides in-classroom relevant resources to universities which strengthen the talent pipeline and help close the industry-wide awareness gap. The more we educate students and professors on what marketing and advertising is, the stronger our workforce becomes. We needed a valuable partner like the AEF to expand our reach and scale.
I love this business. It has afforded me many experiences that I would not trade for anything in this world. However, like many people in the industry, it happened to find me. I consider folks like us extremely lucky. If we are intentional about bringing folks into our business from a myriad of educational backgrounds and experiences, imagine the force that this industry will come. I am excited about our future leaders of the industry. They are the most diverse and altruistic generation that we have ever seen. I want to ensure that they are successful by providing access to the industry that has given me so much.
The best career advice that I ever received is to not let fear get in the way. Be familiar with your own fear so that you know how to conquer it. Don’t be afraid of being uncomfortable. Don’t be afraid of failure. Don’t be afraid to try again. Don’t be afraid to say yes and don’t be afraid to say no. Don’t be afraid to say you don’t know. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and others. Don’t be afraid to expand your network. Don’t be afraid of rejection.
The next generation of diverse talent are comprised of the most innovative, technologically advanced and altruistic generation that this world has ever seen. This generation will help foster and develop a better tomorrow through their combined unique perspectives and ideas. They will lead us into a future full of limitless possibilities.
I love being impactful. Whether the impact is immediate or comes in increments, it is very fulfilling and motivating. I love being able to have the space to enhance what I am doing by being able to bring others into DE&I work as we have a shared responsibility to make our organization the best agency that we can be. We don’t rest on our laurels and are always looking for ways to improve.
My advice to students would be to research areas that interest you. I would also encourage them to explore areas that they have not considered. Start building your network now. Once you have a network base, keep refreshing it! Always refresh your network of advisors and mentors for continued learning and growth. Let your curiosity lead you. Treat people with respect and kindness. You never know who is doing the hiring, firing or media buying one day.
