Blog Post 1: A brand still in the making

Everyone, meet my "brand."

I spy a Frenchie in a fast-food

A main aspect of my identity is my biculturalism. I grew up in Paris, France, and Europe is a mosaic of countries each with its own traditions and lifestyles that I’ve been exposed to during school and family trips. When I had to decide on a college, I was determined to study in the United States to satisfy my "brand's" curiosity and need for adventure. Before moving to the other side of the pond, I was apprehensive about this different culture, as I may have had a few stereotypes in mind...which I was also subject to! Just to clarify, French women shave their armpits, we don't hate Americans, and we don't always eat cheese and bread (although that's debatable). I am thankful to say I have found my place here (I even started celebrating Thanksgiving), and have made close friends to whom I'm known as "Frenchie," "French Fry,"  or "French Toast." Remaining European at heart but adaptable, I have developed a relationship with change and diversity, which enables me to relate to many demographics.

Proud to be a Rollins Tar!

I am a people-person. At Rollins College, I participated in its student life as a Peer Mentor, as an assistant in the Office of Involvement and Leadership and as Student Government Cultural Relations Chair. Rollins is a small college, yet its unique students represent countless different demographics. Depending on the group I am in, I can act as a wise Senior comforting nervous Freshman, I can relate to world-travelers, I can be frustrated about getting an A- instead of an A, or I can simply power-nap with my roommate because of a previous all-nighter (that said, bad idea).

My compassionate personality was also shaped by two field study trips abroad in 2012, one in Thailand and one in South Africa, where I gained an understanding of the world and its complex problems in education, health care and human rights. I’d like for people to look at and listen to my experiences for them to be socially aware and open to the rest of the world too. I’ll allow some Facebook-creeping, as there are many pictures from those trips on my page. For the thrill-seekers like me, I can also share tips on shark cage-diving and mountain climbing.

Who knew these cheeks would help?

During the Fall 2012, my “Study Abroad” at American University helped me develop my leadership and organizational skills. Along with lectures by high-profile speakers, I interned at the Meridian International Center, where I coordinated cultural, educational and social events for diplomats and ambassadors. Being 5’2 and still having baby cheeks can sometimes hinder my credibility, but don't be fooled by my "brand"  as it is mature when it needs to be. On the same note of hidden maturity, a fun fact about me is that I listen to oldies music, love cross-word puzzles, and struggle with technology...my friends are convinced there is an old soul in me.

This past summer, I noticed conflict in my “brand.” I was a Vacation Planner for Universal Orlando, and our goal was to increase revenue by enhancing guests’ vacation packages. While this was an enriching opportunity in sales and marketing, I didn’t want to be a typical “saleswoman.” I strive to build trust with people I meet by being genuine and consistent. Thanks to that, I received many great tips from guests if I visit their country…an around-the-world trip might have to happen!
 

Brought to you by Diana’s “brand.”