When I was a junior in college, I realized how much I’d been missing by not being a part of ASM and Materials Advantage. Why? Networking, acknowledgment, leadership opportunities, oh, yeah…and $cholarships. But as I became aware of what the society was doing at both the local and national levels, the more I became involved. By attending local charter meetings, I began to interact with a wonderful group of professionals. I learned how much they really care about the success of the student groups around them and how much of a difference I could make, as a student. I found that these individuals wanted to hear from students, and they wanted to do what was best for them, rather than guess.

As I transitioned away from my university, I wanted to continue to make a difference, and more. I knew the impact that I had had at the local level, and I wanted to continue this. I knew my life was changing, challenges at my job were changing, and even my location was changing. Although I was lucky enough to transition from one strong local chapter (Chicago) to another (Puget Sound), I know not everyone is as lucky. I have grown to truly enjoy the camaraderie, support, and information provided through ASM and its programs, and I would hate to lose additional young professionals because their transitions were more difficult than my own.

One person can make a difference, and I believe the Emerging Professionals Program is even more powerful than that, because everyone in the program feels the same way. To paraphrase: the whole is better than the sum of our parts.

More than this, sometimes it can be quite challenging to make a difference at any level as a young professional. Often, it can be intimidating to voice your opinions and kick-start bold initiatives. This program helps everyone involved climb that barrier and be a part of ASM at the national level. And if you don’t want to make the change, but have an opinion, we all hope that you would feel comfortable discussing your ideas with us. That’s part of why we're here: to be your voice as well as ours.

~ Liam Pingree – University of Washington