So… this is my first video post here on Substack. Which means:
I recorded it on-site at the AMI Conference — because I couldn’t not.
I edited it on my laptop while proctoring the CMI exam (which, by the way, is a weird assignment — just watching a room full of medical illustrators silently take a test).
So yeah, the lighting’s a little sketchy and the sound isn’t studio-perfect. But like most things in life, the important part is just showing up.
This one’s all about something that’s weirdly hard, surprisingly important, and almost never taught: how to talk to strangers.
I know, I know — your mom told you not to. But really… learning how to connect with new people is one of the most valuable skills you can build in any field (and in life).
And no — I’m not talking about the elevator pitch. Or shoving your business card into someone’s hand before they’ve even made eye contact. I’m talking about actual, human connection — the kind that opens doors, shapes careers, and reminds you that you’re not doing this whole thing alone.
If you’ve ever wondered how to start conversations that don’t feel fake, how to follow up without being weird, or how to find your people in a crowded room of brilliant strangers… this one’s for you.
Let’s get into it.
And hey, Gabby, thanks for helping out!
Students: Don’t Miss a Post
If you’re nearly done walking the hallowed halls of knowledge, make sure to update your email address before you’re turned loose on the world—so you can keep getting these posts! You should be able to do it right here in the app, but if anything goes sideways, just email me at mandy@meddrawstudio.com and I’ll sort it out.
And if you’re enjoying what I’m up to, I’d be grateful if you’d share it with someone else who might like it too.
But as always, and above all else… stay creative and keep learning!
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