What’s Ms. Short been up to?

I didn’t realize I was getting my degree until I hit that stage in my pumps and my heart was beating out my chest. Everything I had accomplished and worked hard for in four years amounted to one piece of paper. This one piece of paper that had Raven Short written in bold letters on it. I walked across that stage not only for myself, but for my family and ancestors who fought so hard for me to attain my education.

You may ask what am I up to two years later?

I, Raven Short, am the Marketing Coordinator of the Capital District YMCA. I create and develop brand materials such as advertisements, flyers, brochures, banners, reports and so much more for the nine branches of the Capital District.

If someone would have told me right after college I would be employed within the field I received my degree in, I would have laughed. Well, shortly after I graduated I started my third internship for the Y. Never would I have thought that internship would turn into a full-time job. A little over a year and I am still learning and developing my craft and myself.

Want to know my favorite thing about the Y? The never-ending service we provide not only to the community but to the globe. On March 5, four co-workers and I will journey across the world for a two-week service trip to Vietnam. There we will build a school for kids, teach English, and visit historical sites. Most importantly we will make a difference.

I cannot believe how my life has evolved, from the classroom to the board room. Did I mention I serve on two boards? Yes, this woman is a proud board member for Catholic Central High School and Capital Region Sponsor-A-Scholar. Every day I try to be better than who I was yesterday. With the support of family and friends my future is so bright. Who knows I may be the next president or Oprah.