March 6, 2008

Courtesy of THE SILVERSWORD - FEBRUARY 22, 2008 and Jessica Burke, Staff Writer

Honolulu, HI- Chaminade seniors in communication Krista Catian and Rand Wilson were nominated as the only two students in the entire state of Hawai`i to be named two of the American Advertising Federation "Most Promising Minority Students."

The American Advertising Federation held its annual "Most Promising Minority Students Awards" in New York City this month.

The program is the American Advertising Federation's way of helping minority students into the field of advertising.

"Meeting important people was on the most rewarding aspects of this trip," said Catian. "I never expected to meet CEOs and presidents of major advertising firms. I was able to talk to them and get their insight and advice."

Catian and Wilson had to submit their college transcripts, letters of recommendation and resumes, along with an application from the AAF.

"I realized this was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I did not take it for granted," said Catian. "I really went out there and sold my strengths and abiltites to these major companies."

Both students had to submit written essays to the AAF and worked very hard for this honor.

"I was extremely honored to represent a minority group from Chaminade and return to New York City where I was born," said Wilson.

Upon finding out about the AAF nomination, Wilson felt that this was a prestigious moment in his life and is excited to make the most of his opportunities.

"To be given this chance is so exciting," said Wilson. "I am still excited about the whole experience."

While in New York, Wilson interviewed with four major advertising companies and has more interviews to come.

Most of these companies are on the east coast, but Wilson states that he is ready to leave the Islands, grow, and put his skills to the test in the "real world."

Catian says she is not ready to relocate farther than the West Coast at this point in her life. She wants to stay in Hawai`i and close to her `ohana.

"I was offered many interviews and possible positions with a major local advertising and west coast firms," said Catian. "This experience was not only rewarding, but fun," said Wilson. Traveling with Cliff and Krista was a great experience and they were a pleasure to travel with."

Both Wilson and Catian left with their own "little apple" in the Big Apple. They received the AAF's Most Promising Advertising Award glass apple, engraved with their names, the AAF's logo, and a gold stem.

The goal of the AAF Most Promising Minority Student Award Program is to allow the advertising industry to reflect on today's diverse society and recognize multiculturalism.

Catian and Wilson felt honored by this achievement and plan to make the most of the experience awarded to them.