Hello, my name is Grace Tate! I am from Michigan, a recent University of Michigan graduate, and a 2022 VFA Fellow!
During Training Camp, I had the experience of a lifetime! What was so special about Training Camp is the support we all had for each other. Outside of our free time we had to create memories such as trivia and karaoke nights, touring Detroit, and hosting picnics for one another. In the span of two weeks, it allowed us to form deep, lifelong bonds with individuals with similar passions and goals.
A memorable moment for me was the accountabilibuddies activity we did. In this activity, we each reflected on goals we wanted to accomplish in our own personal and professional life. After assessing these goals we then found partners within our cohort that could help motivate and encourage us to be the best versions of ourselves.
From this hour and a half long activity, I was able to find many “buddies.” Some buddy groups included finding Fellows that could help me start my own business, potential business partnerships, and those passionate about saving the environment. We have now vowed to continuously check in with each other after Training Camp and set bi-montlhy meeting dates.
What really stood out to me from this activity is it showed how much similarity, encouragement, and respect the Fellows have for one another. While we had only known each other for a few days, there was still genuine care and relatability.
Also, in Training Camp, we had the privilege of hearing from author and entrepreneur, Lorenzo Gomez, who spoke to us about the importance of building a network and how this network can push us to succeed when we unknowingly doubt ourselves. Using this knowledge with the accountabilibuddies activity, it really emphasized the importance of Training Camp and our connection among the Fellows.
All in all, Training Camp was a lifetime experience to create authentic relationships, and helped me align more with my goals. The perseverance, creativity, and care I noticed in each Fellow without a doubt excites me to see the future of startup leaders, those making an impact in their community, and CEOs.