From Miami to Las Vegas: A Chapter of Growth, Risk, and Reward

Daenne’s Journal
May 4
3 min read

Picture of person smiling — Cover image by GENESIS team member

On October 2021, I made one of the biggest moves both figuratively and literally by moving to Las Vegas Nevada from Miami Florida. The two cities are so different, yet similar on so many ways.

When I took this opportunity, it was a defining moment for both my personal life and career. I took a risk. I left all of my friends and family behind because I believed in the vision that was set for the program I would work for. It is always great to be part of something bigger than you. It is not every day you get the opportunity to be part of building something from the ground up. This is what we did. I was part of the team that was opening a medical school while building new programs. On March 2022, GENESIS at Roseman University College of Medicine officially launched on the steps of the Las Vegas City Hall. To be part of this, was HUGE! The work did not stop there. In my time there, we accomplished quite a lot to say the least.

But what is GENESIS? GENESIS is an initiative of the College of Medicine at Roseman University that connects high-risk households to vital community resource. Till today, it is ambiguous to many about what I actually do, well did for a living. I had the opportunity to plan and oversee over 350 community events while actively forging partnerships with over 100 community organizations to support households in need. I managed a team of 4 while teaching and training on the approach of the program. I worked closely with faculty and staff to ensure the readiness of the program. I supported communications efforts by sharing newsletters, work on our podcast, and managing all social media platforms. My favorite thing about the job was serving the community and building connections. I still remember it like yesterday when my dean told me "Daenne your job is to make friends."

As I was reflecting on my time with GENESIS, here are a few things I want to share with you:

You will never regret taking a chance. You will only regret the chances you didn't take. I took a big chance by moving a to a new state without knowing anyone other than the people I work with. It was thrilling and nerve wracking all at once. Now I understand why my parents were concerned. It is a risk I am glad that I took because it as truly paved the way for the next steps in my career.
The best way to succeed is to always be open to learn. I had to learn a lot very fast. I don't think I would have the opportunities to learn all the things I learned in the amount of time I did anywhere else.
Work hard no matter what life throws at you.
Always know what is in it for you. The first time my former dean and director told me this I was shocked. What do you mean what is in it for me? It took me a while to figure out what was in it for me. I finally found what that was and worked on it as hard as I worked for the program.

Leaving was truly bittersweet! I started the draft of this article a while back, but I thought it is fitting to publish it now considering the school just got accredited. How wonderful to be part of history! I am so proud of the work we did! Our community is and will continue to be better because of it.

My team truly made sure I felt loved and appreciated during my farewell party. Can you believe I was too busy crying to take pictures of the amazing food during my farewell party? Here is a little sneak peek...