Dynamic Marketing Acquisitions never shies away from an opportunity to celebrate our team. This month, we sat down with Michelle Guzman in a one-on-one interview to discuss, company culture, business, and her future. Want to learn more about her? Keep on reading.
Where are you from?
“I was born in Manhattan, New York. I moved to Charlotte, North Carolina when I was young. I am of Dominican descent.”
What childhood experiences were most influential in your life?
“Being the youngest child in my family with the most attitude forced my parents to be stricter with me. That discipline taught me not only about myself but also about respecting authority.”
How would your parents and peers describe you?
“Others would describe me as sophisticated, caring, intelligent, brave, extraverted and funny.”
Were you involved in any extracurriculars?
“I did not play sports but was very involved in the arts through theatre, visual arts, and fashion. I did several hours of community service as well. Being in the arts allowed me to develop my creativity and having experience in theatre allowed me to really sharpen my teambuilding. On the stage, it’s crucial that the entire team is working together in order to deliver a successful show.”
What was your childhood dream job?
“Growing up, I had several dream jobs. I began by having an interest in teaching grade school, then had an interest in psychology and emotional behaviors and finally settled with my passion, entrepreneurship.”
Did you have any idea you would end up in this field?
“Part of me knew that I would end up in this field. I was drawn to the opportunity and knew I was going to take it, but it was not until I closed the back door that I fully committed to the opportunity.”
Tell us about your college experience.
“I am currently a senior at Johnson & Wales University, receiving my Bachelors in Fashion Merchandising and Retail Marketing. I am the live events chair for the campus activities board where a team of others and myself host all of the events and festivals we have on campus. In addition, I serve as a peer transition advisor, where I get together with students who are transitioning into college and become a mentor for them, helping them prepare for their college journey. I am currently doing an internship, as well, for a minority-owned women’s brand. I pay for my college independently, so as a result, I have worked full time since I started school. From freshman year until sophomore year, I worked full time as a waitress until I started at DMA. I absolutely love fashion and entrepreneurship, so I knew this career would be perfect for me. I am enjoying the process of learning and developing myself through my studies, through networking, and through taking advantage of the opportunities that present themselves.”
What is one life experience that you feel has shaped you?
“My parents are from the Dominican Republic, so coming into this country was a drastic change for them. Growing up, I had to learn to handle large tasks at a young age. From translating daily to learning about credit and loans and all those types of things, I matured at a faster rate than the average child.”
What would you consider to be your greatest skill, quality, or asset?
“My greatest quality is that I am 100% genuine. Once I build a bond with someone, I am always there for them no matter the case. I have a huge heart. I’m very compassionate and sympathetic.”
What drew you towards the company?
“What drew me towards the company was it gave me the change I was looking for. I was unhappy waitressing and I knew that I could do better for myself and my future.”
How would you describe the culture at DMA?
“We have an upbeat, energetic culture! Our environment is focused on positivity, success, and being an individual of good morale.”
What has been your best memory with the company?
“Every day is a new best memory with the company, but this is only the beginning. I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
What is something you’ve learned through your work you didn’t know before?
“This company has taught me so much about myself, about finances, about leadership, about entrepreneurship, etc; the list goes on. The biggest lesson of all is that success is earned, not given. So many individuals want the same things yet, so few receive it and it really comes down to a small list of things- drive, work ethic, and mentality.”
Within the next five years, Michelle Guzman hopes to be a successful entrepreneur, while continuing to learn the business and the keys to success. Where will she end up? “Traveling is a priority to me,” says Guzman, “I want to travel nationally and internationally. I am attracted to suburbs and towns, as opposed to hectic cities. I love Charlotte and what it offers, but I have not decided if I will stay in this city long term. I am open to taking opportunities as they present themselves.”