When I first joined AMA, I started as a committee member on the design team, drawn to the idea of working with real clients and making a tangible impact. What I didn’t realize at the time was how much this experience would shape my own growth. A year later, I stepped into the role of Consulting Manager, guiding a team of underclassmen as they explored marketing, branding, and client engagement.

Transitioning from a contributor to a leader was one of the most rewarding parts of my AMA journey. Helping underclassmen expand their marketing knowledge, navigate client work, and build confidence in their abilities was both a challenge and an opportunity. I learned that leadership isn’t just about delegating tasks—it’s about fostering a space where others can grow, ask questions, and take ownership of their work.

Working with clients, I saw firsthand how design and marketing strategies directly affect a brand’s presence. Whether it was refining a visual identity, crafting social media strategies, or restructuring communication efforts, every project had the potential to make a lasting difference. This reinforced my passion for branding and creative strategy, showing me the power of well-executed design in shaping perceptions and engagement.

Managing a team came with inevitable challenges—low meeting attendance, shifting client expectations, and balancing different working styles. I learned to adapt, refine communication strategies, and find creative solutions to keep the team engaged and motivated. Sometimes, it meant restructuring meetings, adjusting deadlines, or stepping in to provide additional guidance.

My experience as a Consulting Manager has solidified my interest in branding, strategy, and mentorship. It has also reinforced my belief in the importance of designing with intention—whether for a client, a brand, or an experience. Without AMA, I probably would have never opened my eyes to the world of consulting or marketing in relation to design!