By Rylie DeGarmo, Meteor Solutions Intern;
recent graduate of Seattle Academy and soon-to-be college student at Lewis & Clark College.

As a recent high school graduate scrambling for work experience in a competitive, fast-paced world spotlighting technology, I deeply appreciate the experience I’ve had at Meteor Solutions. I took a software development class in high school, made PowerPoints for fun as a 10 year old, and am absolutely mesmerized by the evolution of technology and how it has changed the way we think, interact, and create. But I couldn’t touch an avid tech enthusiast, nor a communications or business major – I am in fact quite undecided. So what can I possibly contribute to the world of business/technology/social media, and what does it serve me? More than I could have imagined.

Despite my noncommittal existence (induced, perhaps, by the receptive, malleable nature of adolescence), I have reaped immeasurable benefits from being exposed to the enterprising, buzzing office of Meteor Solutions. Meteor is a vibrant, ambitious operation that embodies a slice of the future as it unfolds before our eyes: collaborative, accessible, progressive, and thriving at the heart of social communication. Coming in as a high school intern with limited knowledge of internet-software, data analysis, or tech “lingo”, I played the sponge as my new coworkers enlightened me. Being in an unfamiliar environment that required me to breach my comfort zone and test my strengths and weaknesses, I learned a lot about the professional world and even more about myself. There are no small parts, only small actors. Be adaptable. Maintain that positive attitude. Trust one’s instincts. Ask questions. Appreciate every aspect of an experience – the good and the bad – because the worst of times are the times in which one can grow for the best. All of these qualities (and more) will remain illuminated and reaffirmed in my mind as I further my way into the world.

I’d like to think my presence in the office has bore significance, not only in my work but also in the way I’ve worked. It is my hope that my colleagues recognize from my experience that the entity to which they belong offers something even more valuable than just internet-software experience to an aspiring tech guru. In addition, it offers a venue for any student of the world to encounter teamwork, compassion, inspiration, and perhaps a sparked interest in commiseration of our humanity through perpetual development together.

So, let this be the humble beginnings of a sincere “Thank You” to everyone at Meteor, for welcoming me into your community open-mindedly and putting me to work. At the conclusion of my term here, I walk away with more confidence in my ability to work hard and grow in a new environment, a great respect for you all as people and as agents to the advancement of communication, and a sense of responsibility to further understand and contribute to the progressive evolution of human beings as synergetic creatures. Above all else, I’ll be carrying the universal lessons of my experience here at Meteor into any endeavor I may pursue in my life. To my Meteor mentors and friends – thank you so much for this opportunity.