Member Showcase - CMP Spotlight - January 2024

Sarah Alexandre, CMP Events Manager Atlanta Apartment Association

What motivated you to pursue the CMP designation?

As a first-generation American being raised by Haitian immigrants who moved to the US while they were very young adults, I was always taught that education and understanding are the key to succeeding. We each have the power to alter our lives, we just need to dedicate ourselves to learning something and work diligently toward it. I already begun my journey during my studies at the University of Florida where I earned a degree in Tourism, Hospitality & Event Management, and 3 years post-graduation, earning my CMP seemed like the only logical next step. I strive to always be informed in what I do so that I can be intentional and strategic at all times. Earning my CMP was the way to ensure I can positively affect each program that I work with. I knew that the more time that elapsed, I’d be more hesitant and doubtful of myself, so it’d be better to study for something when my muscles aren’t too out of use. 

How did participation in the CMP Study Group support your studying to take the exam?

The CMP study group helped keep my studying structured and allowed me to gain insight from my study buddies who had a completely different role and experience with meetings. Instead of just reading information, we each shared the manner in which we applied the concepts or where they relate to our own job functions. Sharing these concrete examples helped to solidify the concepts in my brain while also fostering a relationship with others in the industry.

How did you feel when you saw the words "You Passed”?

I was SO elated when I saw those words that I did a small wiggle and shimmy in front of my screen before checking out with the proctor at the testing site. I left the building with a gigantic smile on my face ready to celebrate my new accomplishment! 

What benefits have you experienced as a result of having your CMP?

I anticipate that my CMP will allow me and others to have a confirmed confidence in my abilities and passion for enhancing the meeting experience. I’m still in the early stages of my career journey and those beautiful 3 letters behind my name show that I’m not okay settling with the bare minimum. I will always want to learn more so I can do better.

Does having your CMP designation enhance your position as a knowledgeable industry expert?

Having my CMP will definitely be helpful, both in my work as an Events Manager and in strategic communications with my association colleagues.  Being able to effectively address Return on Investment principles I learned in studying for the CMP Exam as they relate to the key stakeholders for our meetings and conferences brings a fresh perspective to our future events. 

Do you find information you learned while studying to take the exam helpful in your positions since earning your CMP and are you able to use some of the formulas, etc., to help your and your clients' meetings go well?

Absolutely! My EIC manual and PMM book have so many highlights and notes that I have begun using in my current role, along with items that I now understand why my organization makes certain choices. The information on this exam is essentially a recipe for creating wonderful meetings, but some planners are missing a few ingredients. Studying for this exam helped me to see what I can add to make my events a bit sweeter.

Reflecting on the time since you achieved the CMP designation, was it a good use of your time and resources to take that step?

Studying for this exam was a perfect use of my time, I took advantage of my company’s shoulder season to use my downtime, on and off the clock, to focus on exam preparation. This allowed me plenty of time to read, relate, review, and rest before taking my test without any extra anxiety, and that included having a chronic health episode 2 months prior to taking my test. 

What words of encouragement would you have for future CMP candidates?

You can 100% do this! The word exam might scare you but it’s only 4 letters, whereas you have years of experience in the field along with books with straightforward text that supports your role in making meetings meaningful. As you study, relate the texts to those you encounter on the planning experience, and you’ll be able to see and connect how we all contribute to making wonderful meetings happen.

For more information on the CMP designation and MPI Georgia Chapter's CMP Study Group that meets on Zoom, click on the link below.  The next Study Group will begin on January 16, 2024. 
https://www.mpi.org/chapters/georgia/education-events/cmp-study-group