Nothing Short of Amazing: My First Week
By Sharon Washington
My first week as a Discover The Unexpected fellow has been nothing short of amazing. Week one has furthered my curiosity into the program, and I hope to continue to carry this curiosity throughout the rest of my journey. From my initial arrival at the boot camp to my first day at the Washington Informer, each day has gifted me with something unexpected.
I did not expect to grow so close with each of the fellows in such a short span of time. Both teams are equipped with talented and driven individuals that I know I will maintain relationships with, moving forward in my life and career. To be greeted by the Chevrolet team, agencies, production team, and the NNPA members was overwhelming and astonishing. Surprises continued to occur as we found out that Fonzworth Bentley and DJ Envy were going to be our ambassadors and mentors for the duration of the fellowship.
Our first day of work at the Washington Informer was both intimidating and uplifting. We were greeted by a newspaper staff that has a genuine passion for journalism and storytelling in the Black community. As we sat through the orientation at the publication, it was hard to not recognize the weight of what it means to be a voice for the African American experience. I know that this team will not allow me to fail. I am encouraged to work hard and be a voice for the voiceless. I am excited to learn more about what it means to be a Black American in all of its varying forms. I take it as an honor and accept this responsibility.
On our way to Washington D.C., my team got the distinct opportunity to travel to the Magnolia House, which expanded my mind on the depth of the Black American experience. The Magnolia House is one of the last standing properties that is found in the Green Book. The Green Book is a travel guide that the Black citizens needed to ensure that they were safe from harm during their long-distance travels. To think that less than 100 years ago my ancestors had to travel according to terms that helped them avoid life or death circumstances is beyond words. Here we are driving across the country comfortably in a 2019 Chevrolet Blazer that draws attention and compliments. We also are fortunate enough to not need a “Green Book” along the way.
In a low-key moment with our director, Matt, he reminded my team and me of the importance of remaining appreciative each day of this journey as well as each day of our lives. The phrase used was “beginner’s mind,” we must remember the way we felt the first time we experienced a step closer to our dreams. It was such an important conversation because there have been moments already when a load of assignments is tiring, and the work seems inconvenient. Yet, when we remind ourselves to have “beginner’s mind,” we change our attitude into one that is grateful for each and every moment.
This is just the beginning. This is for my ancestors. This is for my people at home. This is for Florida A&M University and all HBCUs alike. I am eager to learn and discover more of the unexpected.
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