Graduated, but Not From Bond

With my travel plans cancelled and start date delayed, I was in for a pretty boring summer. So when I saw that BOND was offering summer projects, I jumped at the opportunity. When assigned the position of Project Manager (PM), I felt energized. PM is a role that bridges client interaction and team culture, developing communication skills while fostering relationships. I couldn’t have asked for a better capstone to my college experience, much of which was formed by BOND.

Through my first couple years in BOND, I found mentors and friends among my class and older members. Joining the club, I was undecided on my major and thought consulting was limited to on campus clubs. My PMs, Arjun and Shaleen were welcoming and genuinely dedicated to improving their consultants' skills sets. I felt gratified by the experience of working with our Main St. client. Aided by insightful conversations with Rohan, my PMs, and other members, I decided to apply to Ross. I am thankful for the guidance and encouragement I received from those before me, whether it was in the Winter Garden or over 2am feta bread.

As I developed my skills and interests, with the help of upperclassmen, I grew into leadership positions, serving as Project Manager, Vice President of Client Acquisition, and Development Lead (DL). DL was easily the most rewarding position I held in my time at UMich. Through fall semester, I saw my newbies grow in remarkable ways. Sure, they improved their presentation and analytical skills, but I was most impressed by the way their confidence shined. We had fun that semester, too; I will always cherish the cooking nights and hockey chants, and the 7 alpha newbies with whom I shared those experiences.

I’d like to thank BOND, and more importantly each and every one of its members for providing these opportunities and influencing me to become not only a better leader but a better person. As a (now) alumna, I feel abundantly grateful to have found my people in BOND and have been able to leave an impression on the organization that shaped me. It’s difficult to leave this incredible community, but I’m excited to move to Chicago, living with 2 of my best friends and fellow BOND alumni Abby and Caroline. And for those of you still on campus, know that I will continue to make appearances in the big BOND groupme.