As promised, this is a blog reflecting on my experience at the Spark 2011: Ignite Your Future event. Unfortunately, I was unable to make it to the actual event. I had managed to give away a shift at work that I was scheduled to work from 10-5 on Saturday morning, however at 8 am Saturday, my work called to tell me that the gentleman I had given the shift to had been fired, and that they would need to me work the shift. I was very upset and angry as I had been looking forward to the event for days AND had even recruited friends to come on the premise that I would be there. Though I'm sure I still missed quite a great experience, I have been told by those in attendance that it wasn't quite what was promised.
The AMA had the opportunity to speak in a few of my fourth year marketing classes promoting their group and the event alike. In all of the presentations, stated numerous times throughout, the group stressed the attendance of representatives from major corporations including Disney. After not being able to attend, I asked a few friends I knew were there as well as various members of the actual AMA how it went. To my surprise, NO ONE from Disney was there. Apparently, Disney employs the likes of a company called Launch! to organize and control their marketing efforts in regards to their movie launches. The lady that was then scheduled to attend Spark from Launch! apparently was on maternity and thus no one came to represent the company. Instead, the AMA managed to fill the presenters spot. The gentlemen that attended in Disney's space, apparently had a whole presentation on creating/building the brand that is YOU! Unfortunately, another glitch in the event, this presenter didn't have enough hand outs for all of those in attendance. The aggregate feeling about the event from all of those I talked to was not overly impressive.
On Saturday morning, as soon as I knew I wasn't going to Spark, I made the decision to actually join the AMA, at the price of 100$, to gain access to future events at a lower price. Upon hearing the reviews, now, I am just not so sure. As far as I am concerned, a group who's focus is in the marketing field, is having a very difficult time successfully/positively marketing themselves. Maybe this is so because it is run by students who have to prioritize between the AMA, classes, group meeting, school work, and a personal life. Either way, I still plan on becoming an active member in the group and perhaps lending a helping hand. Since I am graduating in about 3 weeks, my knowledge of marketing and new found free time post graduation might help propel the group to future success. One things for certain, it was a learning experience for all, even organizers, and only time will tell if lessons were learned.
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