Company Name and Title: Native Grill & Wings Franchising, LLC – Marketing Manager
Gen U Member Since: 2012
Hometown: Prescott, AZ

The next Gen U event is at United Way funded Sojourner Center. You volunteered there with Gen U before, what stood out to you the most (or most memorable moment) from that event?

Sojourner Center was my first volunteer experience with Gen U. We did some painting at their living quarters, and I remember thinking how awesome it was that so many young professionals gave up their free time to help out. Volunteering is a powerful way to give back to our city; it’s a great opportunity to make and see a difference in the community we are part of.
Gen U volunteer events fill up fast. We’re at capacity at Sojourner this month, but you can volunteer at volunteer.vsuw.org.

What activities make you lose track of time?

Cliché answer: Travel! I never know what day of the week it is, let alone what time it is when I’m on a trip. I should probably get a better watch.

What makes you smile?

Popsicle stick jokes (Where does the General keep his armies? In his sleevies!)

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

I was once pretty lost wandering around a new city, and didn’t have any idea where I was going. A stranger noticed my confusion, asked where I was going, then walked me 15 minutes to where I was trying to get to – in the opposite direction of where she was originally headed.

What three questions do you wish you knew the answers to?

1) Where will I be in 5 years?
2) Who stole my bike when I was in college?
3) Where is my Hogwarts letter?

What’s something new you recently learned about yourself?

I learned that I can change a faucet! Thank you, YouTube.

What makes someone a hero?

Going against the grain to do what is right.

Lessons learned from Gen U that have benefited your career?

I remember attending a Speaker Series once where they talked about the “3 of 5” rule. Essentially, the rule states that if you’re handed a new project at work, and aren’t sure about having all the qualifications to handle it, you should ask yourself, “Can I do at least three-fifths of this?” If so, you’re golden. You know enough and are qualified enough for the project, but you’re also allowing room for growth. As you work through the project, you learn how to do things you didn’t know before. Giving yourself room for growth in every position you hold in your career is so important!

What’s your favorite part of being a Gen U Ambassador?

I really loved group projects in school (nerd alert), and being a Gen U Ambassador reminds me of all the best things about working in that team environment. Getting to collaborate fun ideas with other young professionals from different industries is not only a great learning experience, but let’s us all have a bigger hand in moving the organization forward. I remember helping to plan the very first Gen U Scavenger Hunt. Everyone was pulling from their own resources and strengths and we ended up creating a kick-butt event!