Around this time last year, I was preparing for my final semester at the University of Wisconsin and, like millions of other unemployed Americans, faced with the arduous task of finding a “real world job.” Throughout college, I interned at various non-profits and loved the experience, but I knew that I wanted to gain private-sector experience. So I went to job fairs and watched recruiters drop my resume onto a stack of papers that was destined for the recycling bin. I submitted countless online applications. I even interviewed to sell copy machines (low point).

How I felt after interviewing to sell copy machines

So you can imagine my excitement when I found the Challenge Detroit program. It was right up my alley, and would potentially allow me to work in the private sector and also maintain a connection with very meaningful non-profits. When I was notified that I would be working with Marketing Associates, a digital marketing services company headquartered in Detroit, I was thrilled. The company works with clients of all sizes, including major brands like Ford, KitchenAid and Whirlpool.

But it’s not just the clients that set Marketing Associates apart. MA moved its headquarters from the suburbs to the heart of downtown back in 2007 and have has part of the downtown revival ever since. Since I started work in September, I have felt right at home. MA is unlike most marketing firms in that it houses everything from creative to IT to analytics to client services. Since my first day, the staff—including CEO Mark Petroff and my supervisor, Creative Director Jerry Curtis—has gone out of its way to make sure I understand the ins-and-outs of the company. Oh, and it’s a really fun place to work too. Last week, the company celebrated winning three prestigious HR awards by ice skating at our “office park,” Campus Martius.

Lunchtime at Campus Martius

As a recent college grad, I am very thankful to be employed at such a dynamic company. Marketing Associates, you have been a wonderful host!

This blog post was contributed by Betsy Berens. Be sure to follow all of Challenge Detroit’s activity on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.