It’s officially been a year that I’ve been with Avanade, and I’d like to throw it back to my first month! Last year, around this time, I participated in a technical bootcamp titled “Ignition” in Seattle. Led by Starr Waymack, Ignition was intended to introduce college hires to the culture of organization and Microsoft technologies while teaching its students the ins and outs of navigating client relationships. Ignition was where I began to learn and understand what my future in tech consulting could look like. It was also the place I connected with my fellow analysts from various regions for the first time. Like me, they were also embarking on their career, and as we’re in the same boat, we’ve supported each other tremendously throughout the year. Ignition was a great experience and looking back, I cannot believe how fast time flew by. I came to Avanade as a college hire, interested in developing my career in technology, creating impact, while connecting with industry experts and dynamic people. I received this and more at Avanade.

Over the past 12 months, I’ve gotten to work in a variety of industries such as aircraft, beverage, chemical and currently the insurance industry, where I’m on the coolest project in the Northeast! I’ve also had the opportunity to work with multiple technologies such as Microsoft Teams, Accelerate, Windows 10, Azure and more. In addition, I’ve also enjoyed how Avanade constantly creates the space to learn as I develop my skillsets. The opportunities to learn are countless. From lunch and learns to training programs to obtaining a Microsoft certificate — there’s never a moment where I am stagnant. 

Aside from our technology, I’ve enjoyed the ability to involve myself with various leadership positions that propel me to contribute to the culture of the organization. One is INSPIRE BEN (Black Employee Network), an employee resource group which has amplified my experience at Avanade. INSPIRE, led by Chrystal Tyler and Michael Harris, has taught me how to lead by example while making an impact outside of client responsibilities. Another leadership experience I’ve had is the Campus Ambassador Program (CAP). With CAP, I’ve gotten the privilege to assist in recruiting potential candidates to Avanade. Last fall, I visited my alma mater with other ambassadors and shared my experience as a college hire with students. 

Lastly, sharing my experience at Avanade would not be complete without mentioning my Career Adviser, Sandy Harris, who has pointed me in the right direction and constantly advocates for me. Having such a person at Avanade has given me much insight during this season of my career. 

As I dive into my second year at Avanade, I cannot help but feel blessed. I’m excited to see what the next year looks like, and I’m glad I chose Avanade.