On November 26^th I was invited to speak at an event hosted by the Oakland University chapter of the Pure Michigan Talent Connect Student Ambassador Program. Pure Michigan Talent Connect (PMTC) has chapters at over 20 universities across the state and operates under the primary goal of retaining college graduates in Michigan. PMTC puts on events geared at encouraging students to seek job opportunities through the PMTC Job Portal and also showing students why Southeast Michigan is an exciting place to be.

As a Challenge Detroit fellow I am an ambassador for the city of Detroit, so when I was approached about sharing my experience in Detroit with Oakland students, I jumped at the opportunity. With three months already under my belt as a fellow, talking about Detroit has become second nature. I have already had so many great experiences that can only come from living, working, giving, playing and leading in the city. The next step in being a part of Challenge Detroit is sharing these experiences with others, an opportunity that speaking with Oakland students provided. The point of my message was to give the students a firsthand account of just how enjoyable living and working in Detroit can be. Soon-to-be graduates don’t need to jet off to Chicago or New York to find a job and enjoy the perks of city living. Compelling jobs are available right here in Detroit and the opportunity to make a significant difference is immense compared to some of these other places.

Organizations like PMTC and Challenge Detroit are spreading the vital message: Detroit needs you! It is up to students across the state to hear this message and make a commitment to bringing their talent, creativity, and passion to a city that is hungry for it. The opportunities truly are endless.

Max