On August 31st, 2015, I officially began with Challenge Detroit.  It was a whirlwind first day held at Ford Field that involved getting to know my cohort, as well as a visit from Mayor Duggan.  As a recent college graduate, this day felt like the first day at a new school, and in a way it was but instead of a new school it was more like a new stage in my life.

I still was unsure of what exactly I had gotten myself into for the next year of my life, and who I would be doing it with.  Once I walked in and saw some familiar faces from the interview trip my nerves started to settle.  I saw all of the same passion, excitement and motivation that drew me to Detroit.  This was all confirmed as I got to learn more about my fellow fellows during their introduction presentations.  Those presentations were amazingly unique and creative, they quieted any doubts I had going into the first day.

By the time the day was over, any uneasy feeling I had in the beginning of the day was long gone.  I had realized how lucky I was to be a part of such a smart and talented group of people, and how amazing the next year of my life will be.  Surrounding myself with these remarkable individuals has made every conversation a new learning experience.

The rest of the week took me out of my comfort zone multiple times especially on the high ropes course.  We all wanted each other to succeed and the day was full of positivity and encouragement to help each other through our own uncomfortable situations.  Knowing I will be with this group of amazing individuals for the next year of my life makes entering the world of adulthood a little less frightening.