Make a Statement – Wear a Color

Last summer, as an IW Group intern, I embarked on a journey that took me to Seattle and led me into a deeper exploration of self-expression. Joining the NMGZ community on this trip was an incredible opportunity, and I didn't anticipate it would become the perfect canvas for showcasing my newfound confidence.

One experience that particularly highlighted this shift was our visit to Starbucks headquarters, which was a pivotal moment. During that visit, listening to Kara DeLost, group manager at Starbucks, I was struck by a piece of advice that resonated deeply with me: "Wear a color." At first, it seemed like simple interview advice, a way to stand out in a room full of candidates. However, reflecting on her words, I realized they were statements about expressing individuality and confidence in every situation, not just in interviews. It was about making a statement wherever I went, in every aspect of life. "Wearing a color" became my mantra for the entire trip. It wasn't just about choosing a vibrant outfit—it was about allowing my authentic self to shine in every interaction. With this mindset, I approached each day in Seattle with renewed courage, eager to make my presence known and my voice heard.

After visiting WE Communications and Microsoft on our final day, I fully embraced this colorful mindset. At WE, I drew upon my knowledge of AI, weaving it into the questions I asked. This wasn't just about showing off what I knew—it was about contributing meaningfully to the conversation, adding my unique hue to the mix.

At Microsoft, I decided to steer away from the expected tech-centric queries. Instead, I asked what it was really like to work at such a massive tech company beyond the glossy surface. This authentic curiosity allowed me to paint a more vivid picture of life at Microsoft and demonstrated my ability to think beyond the obvious.

By allowing myself to "wear a color" and stand out, I discovered a new level of confidence. I wasn't just blending into the background—I was actively contributing my unique perspective to our team's palette. Each question I asked and each interaction I had became a brushstroke in the larger picture of our collective experience.

From passionate debates about the future of technology to heartfelt conversations about personal growth, every interaction enriched my understanding and added depth to my experiences. These moments helped me create a richer, more nuanced picture of the world around me.

Reflecting on this Seattle trip, I realize that "wearing a color" is more than just about what we put on—it's about how we choose to present ourselves to the world. It's about having the courage to be authentically ourselves, to ask the questions that truly matter, and to make our presence known in a way that is uniquely our own. As I move forward, I'll carry this lesson with me, both in my professional journey and personal life. And I encourage you to do the same: find your color, wear it boldly, and let it be the statement of who you truly are.