Profiles of Tenacity: Danielle Zeitlin

Danielle Zeitlin is a fourth-year advertising, political science and international affairs major from Cumming, Georgia, set to graduate in May 2026. Zeitlin is involved in mock trial, student government, Dawg Camp and UGA’s Office of Emergency Preparedness. As president of UGA’s mock trial team, the group took home first place at the American Mock Trial Association competition.

Read her Q/A below.

Why did you choose your major?

As a pre-law student in the School of Public and International Affairs, I knew I wanted to branch out and develop more technical skills. I chose advertising because I wanted to learn about the planning process for campaigns and corporations. Advertising gave me the opportunity to do creative and strategic work.

What does tenacity mean to you?

Tenacity means having the courage to believe in yourself.

What is one piece of advice that you would give to other Grady students?

Take advantage of all of the opportunities Grady has. The faculty is so talented, and no matter what you are interested in, someone (or a friend someone has) will know how to help you.

What motivates you?

The people around me. My family, friends and professors have all helped motivate me throughout everything I have done in college.

What or who has had the biggest impact on your life?

I might be sounding like a broken record at this point, but all of my friends. Surrounding myself with people with different interests, goals and skills has made me see how many opportunities and paths there are. Without so many fantastic people around me, I would know myself and this university so much less. Whether I met friends through clubs, class or just around campus, the people were the defining part of my life at UGA.

What has been your biggest accomplishment in the past year?

This year I captained UGA’s mock trial team to the first national championship in school history. I’ve been a member of the program since my freshman year, so being able to finish my time on such a high note has been truly a privilege.

What is your favorite place on campus and why?

North Campus. For the past three years I’ve lived right next to North Campus and walked through it every day. Watching the seasons change, people sit with friends and seniors take their grad photos reminds me of how beautiful this school is.

What advice would you give to your future self?

Take a breath and be present in every moment.

Editor: Sarah Kate Maher, skm01341@uga.edu