Meet Danielle

Hi! My name is Danielle and I am heading into the summer of my senior year at Northwestern University, where I will (fingers crossed) finish both my communication studies and Spanish degree in June of 2011. Before coming to Monar, I worked at a Chicago literacy non-profit called “Working in the Schools” for two consecutive summers, and even before that, I worked as a swim instructor at the YMCA. Needless to say, I think–or hope, rather–the experience here will be a bit more rich than towing petulant children from one end of the pool to the other.

I was born and raised in Chicago, yet I know embarrassingly little about my own city; my friend had to explain to me a month ago what the Magnificent Mile referred to, and she’s from New York. Luckily I have a passion for learning new things, and as such I tend to ask a lot of questions. I like testing my own limits. I’m not one to shy away from a challenge. And after spending a semester abroad, I am taken by the prospect of travel and absorbing new languages and cultures. There’s something to be said for the rush one gets trying to navigate a new environment, and that even extends beyond the physical.

When I’m not logging long hours in the library, toiling and slaving in exchange for the tuition poured into my undergraduate education (thanks Mom, Dad–that’s for you), I enjoy spending time with my friends, reading, shamelessly watching trash television, and sharing my breadth of odd pop culture knowledge (one hit wonders, “what else was that guy in,” etc.). I like wandering around art museums and sharing good meals with the people I love. And paradoxically, I like to keep things organized, but often fail to deliver–my bedroom looks as though it once acted as the set for Twister. Maybe one day I’ll reconcile my love for organization with my work habits.

I’m very excited to have joined the Monar team, and am very much looking forward to whatever challenges may cross my path!
Question Quickfire

In chronological order: an actress on Barney, the Little Mermaid, a joint mattress/ice cream tester, a famous author, a famous anything, an advertiser, and a consultant. I’m still trying to figure it out

Who has inspired you the most in life and why?
My dad has probably been one of the more inspirational people in my life. He has always pushed me to push myself, showing me that the success he has gained has been directly proportionate to the work that he puts in. He has also taught me the importance of breaking bread with friends and family, and sharing what you have–material or immaterial–with the people that you care about.

If you were an animal, what would you be?
According to Maggie’s survey, I’d be a cat. Something about being sly and witty, hopefully without the penchant for hairballs. I suppose it’s better than an elephant…