Monday, June 4, 2012

Defining 1st Week

White House, Washington, D.C.
My first week in D.C. has been one full of adventure. It almost seems like I am living the reject version of Fast & Furious when one considers how fast paced life is here in comparison to my home state of Kansas. Street noise plays throughout the city until you find yourself in bed preparing for the next day.

During our first week we had a crash course in disability history, networking, and professionalism. In each of those subject matters, we discovered things that we needed to improve upon. Business cards, a 30 introduction, and an umbrella are just a few things one must have on hand at all times while in the District. My favorite thing to practice is the 30 second introduction, which should include the following information:


1. Who you are
2. Where you work
3. What you do
4. Why that work is important to you


I've come to discover that those who live in DC may have the order of things placed a little differently. It seems to be much more pertinent to the listener if they can find out where you work and what you do first  - all else is menial. While I plan to stick with the order of things that seem mannerly, I find it a bit disheartening that people much rather define themselves through their professional titles rather than their passions.


So let me be clear, my name is Shawn Bryant and I am a proud advocate for people with disabilities. 




Cheers,
Shawn

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