Which option did you choose (Traditional Demo, E-demo, Defense of Reports, Capstone Program) and why?

Defense of Reports was my choice because one way does not suit all.

How did the Appraisal Institute help you on your journey to designated membership?

The Appraisal Institute has vast educational offerings and publications that prepared me for my profession.

What was the biggest obstacle you faced during the process and how did you overcome it?

The biggest obstacle was finding time to write the Traditional Demonstration report. I received an email from Carrie Vann notifying Associate members of a deadline to submit the application for Defense of Reports. In that moment, I said that I was going to walk through that door and am grateful that I did. A renewed energy motivated me to complete an option different than the Traditional Demo, which worked out great. I received the result in less than two weeks.

What surprised you the most about the membership process?

The staff and volunteers at the Appraisal Institute are competent and friendly in assisting you in achieving your goals. Carrie Vann was pivotal in helping me turn the corner to complete my final requirement for the MAI designation. I felt that she had a genuine interest in my success.

What is the biggest benefit of becoming designated?

There are more business connections and endless possibilities.

What advice do you have for Associate members working towards designated membership?

You are one of many until you achieve your designation, so do it now.

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do different, knowing what you know now?

I was stuck in the demo rut for a long time. Looking back at what I know now, it is easy to say that I would have finished it sooner, but that wasn’t my journey and I probably appreciate it more.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Most people that I spoke to that only have the demonstration report to complete their requirement for designation indicated that it would be easier to write the traditional report than choosing another option, but they are not doing it. There are a variety of new ways to complete the demonstration of knowledge requirement that appeal to a wide range of Associate members.