The Memories I’ll Carry with Me

My week in New York City was a rollercoaster of experiences and emotions. It began on Monday morning when I received a call from my mom telling me that my grandfather passed away. I felt, and still feel, heartbroken. However much I wanted to fly back to Oregon to grieve and comfort my mom, she told me that I needed to stay in NYC (and I agreed). I am so grateful to have had the opportunity of spending Creative Week in New York with 107 other talented young professionals. In one of our last conversations, I told my grandpa about the New York trip and my upcoming internship. I know he would have wanted me to stay too. 

I am truly glad that I stayed. I shared the news with some friends and a few professors on the trip, and I received so much kindness from everyone. So many hugs and kind, loving words from my fellow Ducks. Even though I didn’t have a very close friend with me in New York, I felt comforted by the friends around me and the close friends and family who were with me digitally from across the country.

Like a rollercoaster, the dips in life eventually go up. While my sadness still hasn’t gone away, the rush and excitement of being in New York helped mitigate it. Later that day, my team and I worked for hours to perfect our campaign for the Spirit of Gander. At that time, I felt exhausted. Then we presented the next night. Nervousness. Then we won the pitch! Excitement, gratitude, pride for my teammates. The rest of the week was full of emotions.

Exploring the city and networking with professionals gave me a new sense of independence and inspiration. My path is becoming more focused as I discover where I want to go and who I want to be. This week taught me that no matter where I go, I’ll have my grandpa, and a network of advertising family, watching over me.

Emily Foster.

05.15.17.