Going into each challenge, I always find myself awake the night before wondering how my skillset can be of use for the challenge at hand. For those interested, I am a Media, Communications & Technology graduate from MSU (Go Green!) with a specialization in Media Management Research. Looking back at our challenges, no matter the cause, I felt them to be a perfect match for me. I quickly realized that the art of communication is universal for all organizations, whether it be for marketing purposes with press kits, releases or even something as small as breaking into the various social media platforms. I noticed that things that seemed so simple to me, others may really struggle with and as I grow with each challenge I learn that this goes both ways. For example working on the LCS (Livernois Community Storefront) Activation I was placed on the social media/marketing team which was a perfect match.

However, upon transitioning into the next challenge with Beaumont Health Systems to assist with childhood obesity prevention, the keyword being “child,” I found myself completely thrown for a loop. I myself have never dealt with obesity or even known someone for that matter that has. My parents would tell you that I’m not exactly what you would consider” childproof,” which means I’d probably have more luck becoming a horse whisperer than communicating with kids. Once fully immersed in the Beaumont challenge, it came to me what do I and kids have in common? Dancing! I like music/dancing and how does Disney, Nickelodeon and others intrigue their audience?  With MUSIC! My team ran with my idea to incorporate music and dance, and it was the most fun and interactive challenge that I’ve been a part of thus far. Moral of the story: you don’t have to change you in order to contribute; the smallest ideas in the end make the biggest impact.

Presentation day at Beaumont Health Systems