Portrait of a Leading Lady: Kari

In February, I collected profiles of women in my life who inspire me and I wanted to feature on my blog. Between the move and life transition, I have not kept up with this feature story but watching the Emmy's the other night re-inspired me to highlight these amazing women. To find out more about my inspiration for this project visit my original post.

September's Leading Lady is Miss Kari Rood! Kari and I met in graduate school at the University of Georgia where we both studied College Student Affairs Administration. Honestly, you cannot help but love her! She always has a bright smile on her face and a welcomes you with a warm heart. We bonded over our love for coffee and little sweet treats. She is authentic and courageous. One of the things that I appreciate most about Kari is her ability to make even the smallest moment something special.

Age: 25
Occupation: Student Programs Coordinator
Location: Seattle, WA

Describe yourself in one word: Joyful

Favorite Book: I'm terrible at picking favorites. Growing up it was The Secret Garden. Lately I have read and loved The Hunger Games (the first 2 in the series), The Help, and Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet.

Favorite Music: Classic Rock or Jazz. The Washover Fans is a great local band that I saw in concert recently, Sara Bareilles, The Sweet Remains, Adele.

What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment? The year I spent as the Director for Dance Marathon at BGSU. We raised almost $200,000 for Mercy Children's Hospital in NW Ohio.

What do you feel is the biggest misconception about you? I asked a friend this question the other day. She said she was really surprised by how independent I am.

What is the best advice you have received? You are the only one who wakes up every day and puts on your shoes. Make your decisions for you, not anyone else.

What would you tell your younger self? You can't and don't need to do everything. Relax, enjoy life, and get more sleep!

What do you love most about you? I am extremely grateful to be a positive and optimistic person.

I feel most beautiful…when I'm laughing.

My favorite guilty pleasure is…http://www.dailypuppy.com/? How embarrassing.. haha.

Happiness is… a good book or the newspaper, a pastry, and an Americano at a cozy coffee shop.

I would change…legal rights for same-sex marriage.

Something people would be surprised to know about me is…I was a first-generation college student.

My Life…is exactly where it should be right now. :)