Fellows Turned Family

This summer has been a whirlwind. I first applied to MAIP not knowing how much of a sought after opportunity it was. I had no clue that so many people were applying and had copiously prepared for the chance to be chosen. Despite my little knowledge of this organization, upon my acceptance into this program my mind was absolutely blown.

Before coming into MAIP my world had been blown up before. I’ve gone through years of college; meeting people from different backgrounds, having no clue that such unique individuals existed. I’ve travelled to Europe and met people whose culture and way of life were completely different from my own. I’ve been going through life hearing people’s stories and what they have overcome. Each of these occurrences interrogated the knowledge I felt that I had and caused me to question the security of my own beliefs.

Meeting over 500 people at once was crazy to me.

**Granted, I am the kind of person who obsesses over the fact that there are billions of people who occupy the earth at the same time as I, YET, I will never meet them or even know of their existence.

Joining the excel sheets and taking in what seemed to be an endless list of MAIP fellows was overwhelming for me. Within just a few hours, I had connected with and followed so many new people. Throughout this summer, I have been able to build a family of individuals who never hesitate to encourage and enlighten me. Although we have never met in real life, I have bonded with such amazing people who hype me up on the gram and congratulate me on my successes. Each of them being so unique, offers perspective while bringing so much talent to the table.

This group is full of go-getters; not the kind of people who sit back and take whatever is given to them, but they challenge and appreciate every obstacle they face.

There is no perfection in any industry, including advertising and marketing. However, I have confidence that some of this generation's brightest minds are part of this MAIP class. Motivation, tenacity, and intuition is ever-present in so many of the people I’ve gotten a chance to meet. Most importantly, they have the humility to ask questions and interrogate themselves.

I have always made friends just fine.

Like a lot of people, I have gone through social struggles. I’ve had issues with my self esteem and confidence. I often question my worth and ability in everything so before sending a message to a group of strangers, I tend to overthink things.

Will they think I’m weird? Am I being annoying?; these are a few thoughts that have crossed my mind.

But after re-reading my message for the tenth time, I build up the confidence to send it and once I send it, I am immediately met with people who are so kind as to answer my questions or point me in the direction of having them answered, never once making me feel like a bother.

No one has to be nice. I never take it lightly when people make the choice to be kind and patient with me; it means so much to me.

I wish this year’s class the very best in the future. I hope that they will keep their fire and humility, never becoming docile to issues that while exhausting, are worth addressing. You guys will be the change.