A year ago, as I was searching out possible job opportunities in my last year of college, I never thought I would want to live in a city, let alone Detroit. Good thing I did not put money on that.

Becoming a Challenge Detroit Fellow has opened myself to a new experience, and one that has brought me so many memories. I basically live in the heart of this city, on Woodward Avenue, and with rent being incredibly reasonable for a city (even without my stipend) I am glad I have this chance. I love that I have been able to walk to a Tigers, Red Wings, and Lions game. Shopping at the Eastern Market, where they attract 40,000 visitors a weekend, is great way to spend a Saturday morning. Getting some food at the El Guapo Grill food truck is a must-have for any Mexican food lovers. Visit the Detroit Institute of Art, which has more than 100 galleries for you to view.

Things are only going to get better too. I have had a chance to attend place-making workshops to enhance some of Detroit’s public spaces. The M-1 Rail project should be finishing up in 2015 to bring over 3 miles of light rail transportation to Detroit. Downtown will see empty storefronts being occupied, bringing new life to the city within this time frame as well. Buildings are and will open up more apartments as well, which are very much in demand. Too often people will get caught up on Detroit’s bad image and that is sad for them because there is opportunity in Detroit, as shown in this Quicken Loans commercial that was put together and aired within a week for the World Series. This is just one example of many that will hopefully change people’s perspective of the city. If not, oh well for them. They will miss out on something extraordinary. 

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