I'm a big kid now! (sang in the Huggies Pull-Up jingle)

Well, I've been a big kid for a few weeks now, but I haven't written about it yet, so it's like it just happened, right?

Let me update anyone I haven't talked to in a while...

I'm working at the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra in development as Corporate Relations Associate. Besides doing anything my boss needs me to and managing the interns, the bulk of my job is drafting sponsor proposals and carrying out sponsorship benefits. I also dabble a little bit in research for new sponsors at the moment, but I have a feeling that will pick up considerably in the next couple of months.

As I'm obtaining more and more of my boss's old responsibilities, one of the ones I'm most excited about is working with FORTE, the ISO's young professional group. This group is full of Indy's best and brightest, and I know I can learn so much from those involved. Everyone I have met in FORTE is smart as a whip and extremely fun to be around. Needless to say, I'm more than willing and eager to get more involved. My social media skills will come in handy as I'm beginning to manage the group's Facebook page, and my media madness is put into play in connecting FORTE events with my college contacts. And, of course, we can't forget the networking opps working with such smart, young, influential people in the Indy community. YES!

In a nutshell, it's all amazing, and I love every minute of it! I'm so blessed to have received this opportunity, and I can't wait to learn as much as possible and have the amazingness that is the people I work with rub off on me. Everyone is so passionate about their work, and they will do whatever it takes to make the Symphony successful. You can't find that level of dedication just anywhere. Trust me --- I've done the leg work. And they are all SO fun! They work hard and play hard. Legit.

I've found people, an environment, work and a career I look forward to going to every day, and that is truly exciting and spectacular.

Case in point: This week, I worked my first 14-hour day at the ISO. At the end, I was exhausted, of course, but I would have gone 14 more hours because it was all fun and rewarding. And it ended with interacting with sponsors at an event, which is probably my favorite part of the job. I love meeting and schmoozing with the people we work for in Corporate Development! You get to see first-hand what all your hard work goes toward, and that is truly rewarding.

I also got my business cards today and did harassment training! How official is that?!?

Because I'm a official, time for some promoting!!! Come to Stella Artois Happy Hour at the Symphony Thursday, Feb. 18! Free food and complimentary drinks served at 5 p.m. Concert featuring an amazing band, Time for Three, begins at 6:30 p.m. and runs an hour. It's nothing like you've imagined at the Symphony...trust! If you like music, food, drinks and fun, you'll LOVE this!



I wish everyone as much happiness in their first adult jobs as I have in this one. I don't know what I did to deserve this, but I will continue to thank the powers that be every day.

Follow me @alyandthecity