five lessons

1. My personal favorite, YOU’RE NEVER STUCK. Just because you start off at an agency as a media planner or account manager, it doesn’t mean you can’t change your path down the line. We met so many professionals this week that majored in anthropology, psychology, econ, etc. and they somehow ended up working in advertising. Why? Because they didn’t think they had to limit themselves just because of a title or what was written on their diploma. So always remember, you’re never stuck. Go down different paths, nothing is permanent.

2. We’re only human. I get so scared when I interview or talk to professionals in the industry, but this trip really taught me that the person you’re approaching is only human too. They aren’t someone to be afraid of. Most of them have been in the same spot you’re in right now. So ask questions, be confident in yourself, and most importantly, be yourself. They can tell if you aren’t.

3. You’re not going to want to work everywhere and that’s okay. Now is the perfect time to figure out what you want and don’t want in your future workplace. I learned that I prefer the environment in a smaller agency. I also prefer places that encourage a good work-life balance. I’m all about putting in the time to create great work, but I believe taking care of myself is important too.

4. You have more in common with your peers than you think. I met so many people on this trip that happened to be from the same area as me, liked the same music, and wanted to do similar things post grad. Deb talks so much about how this network is going to be important because these are the people you could potentially be working with in the future and she is SO right. So lesson 4.5 - always listen to Deb.

5. It’s okay if you don’t finish everything on your NY bucket list. That just means you’re going to have to go back again. (or at least that’s just what I told myself)

Monica Samson | May 16th, 2018