Hey friends!

It’s my MILO-versary! I have been working at this company for a year now and today I’d like to take a look back at how far I’ve come since my first day here.

A lot has changed in my life, but MILO has always been a constant that I can rely on.
When I started at MILO, we were a group of seven working on the first floor of Junction440. Today we are a team of 11 in our own (super cool) office on the third floor of TechTown. Not only have I grown this past year, but MILO has grown as well. We all are learning by trial and error. The mistakes have made us stronger and we came out better people through some pretty tough situations. Along the way, we lost friends and coworkers, dealt with crises, and became more productive than ever. 

MILO was my big shot to prove I could start my career in the digital marketing world. I found my calling and the amazing people at MILO were there to guide me along the way. This industry is so exciting to me because it’s always changing.

There’s an opportunity to be continuously learning.
Over the past year, I’ve gained many new skills such as working on day-to-day tasks, to interacting with the client, to engaging with our audiences. I learned how to be a successful Social Media Manager. From knowing basically nothing about professional social media management, I now understand the time and dedication it takes to build a brand online. So when I tell people I manage social media all day, they assume they could just as easily do my job. However, I learned from the best. You have to understand the client’s needs while also showing the consumer we are there to support them. 

Now if you know me, you know I love to brag about MILO because we do so many cool and exciting things, it’s hard not to! These bragging rights include the TEDxDetroit event I attended as part of the official social media coverage for the evening. After this night, I knew MILO was going to open doors for me.

I felt as though everything was falling into place.
I also like to brag about the people at MILO. They are incredible. This group welcomed me with open arms, and as soon as they asked what Hogwarts house I was in, I knew I was home.

I’ve made many mistakes and fallen down many times, but these people helped me right back up.
MILO CEO, Billy Strawter Jr. is the best boss I’ve ever had. He has always been so understanding yet also knows when to push me to think outside the box. He understands his people and relates to them, while also leading them toward success. Billy puts us first, his company second, and himself third. I have learned many life lessons from him on how to be strong while also staying dedicated to what you love. Thank you for your continuous support through my journey here. Although, I wouldn’t be the worker I am today without the constant guidance from Head Digital Strategist, Dmitri. He has also pushed me to be creative and has helped me focus on my strengths.

He saw a potential in me and I cannot thank him enough for that.

He has taught me that failing is a part of learning. I have so much respect for him and the work he does. 

I’d also like to give a shoutout to:

Alexus – My seat buddy, I’m so glad you’re here and that we can enjoy each other’s introvert company together. I know we’re kindred spirits. P.S. thanks for plugging in my computer every day.

Cassie – You are incredible, funny, and so talented. I’m honored to be able to work with you and take in all your witty remarks. Don’t ever be afraid to let your personality shine, because it’s dazzling.

Sara – Thank you for always being there to geek out about Harry Potter with me. Also, you’re an amazing designer and I can’t wait to see what you create next. You’re going to do big things.

Saralyn – I applaud you for being the only non-introvert at MILO, that must be rough but you bring out the best in us quiet people.

Jessie – You always take on so much but you handle it all so well. You make your job look easy, which I know it isn’t. Keep on killing the game.

Felicia – What would we do without you? I don’t know how you do it but you have helped MILO run so smoothly I can’t imagine us without you. You are so sweet and down to earth, I’m glad you’re here with us. You always have your positive pants on.

Colleen – I know you’ve only been here for a little while, but I can tell you have got the MILO mood that we’re looking for. I look forward to getting to know you better!

Finally, I just want to say that I am so thankful for MILO. I love it here. The people, the city, the opportunities…it’s more than I could have ever asked for.

I feel like the luckiest person alive because I have a group of people that not only support me but also give me the ability to perfect my skills.
I still have a lot to learn, but MILO will be there to encourage me. Thank you for following me on my journey. Much love from MILO and me.

-Ashley