From Member to President: Alexandra’s Farewell to AMA: AMA Blog #5

Alexandra cervantes-velez

As I close the chapter of my senior year, I reflect on my journey with the American Marketing Association with immense gratitude and pride. When I first joined as a freshman, AMA was still rebuilding following the pandemic. Seeing how much the organization has grown over the past four years makes it incredibly meaningful to have contributed to its transformation every step of the way.

From serving as a Creative Committee member, to Director, Vice President, and now President, AMA became far more than just a student organization to me — it became a community that shaped both my professional and personal growth. During my time as Vice President, I focused on developing initiatives that would better prepare students for the professional world while maintaining a welcoming and supportive environment. Through programs such as our mentorship initiative, workshops, one-on-one resume development, and mock interviews, my goal was always to help students feel confident, supported, and empowered in their career journeys.

One of my proudest accomplishments has been witnessing AMA grow to nearly triple its size since my freshman year. Watching students discover the same sense of belonging and passion that I once felt has been incredibly rewarding. AMA helped me grow from someone shy and reserved into a confident leader who values connection, mentorship, and community. Because of that experience, I always made it a priority to foster the same warm and inclusive environment that inspired me when I first joined.

One piece of advice I would leave for future students is to remain open to the opportunities AMA offers and always say yes to growth and success. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to the student sitting next to you or ask them about clubs and organizations they enjoy. You never know who they may introduce you to or what opportunities may come from a simple conversation. A special shoutout goes to one of my dear friends from high school, now an accounting major graduating alongside me, who first introduced me to AMA because they knew it aligned with my passions, values, and career goals. Opportunities like these do not happen without people who believe in and support you along the way.

Although it is bittersweet to say goodbye to a community that has played such a significant role in my life over the past four years, I leave feeling incredibly proud of everything we have accomplished together. None of this would have been possible without our dedicated team, whose passion and hard work helped shape AMA into what it is today.

‍ ‍Thank you, AMA, for giving me a place to grow, lead, and belong. The experiences, memories, and relationships I have built here will stay with me long after graduation. - •