#ProfilesOfTenacity: Margaret Leonard

#ProfilesOfTenacity: Margaret Leonard

November 19, 2020
What does the word tenacity mean to you?

Having a clear vision, and not letting the small stuff get in the way of executing it!

Last show or favorite show you’ve binge-watched?

New Girl! I’ve watched it from beginning to end seven times now.

Why did you choose Grady and your course of study?

I have always wanted to combine my love for people with my creative skills. Finding my path in Grady through advertising is the best of both worlds for me! I have a chance to communicate and create all at the same time, and there’s nothing else I’d rather be doing.

What is your favorite Athens restaurant?

Five Bar!

What has been the hardest part about adjusting to COVID-19 in your life as a student and future professional?

Being someone who loves to be surrounded by people, only being able to see faces through a screen has been the hardest part. I miss running into my friends and seeing my classmates on campus. It has also been difficult cultivating relationships with my professors over emails instead of in person, but I think I am getting the hang of it.

Favorite UGA memory?

It’s definitely moving into my dorm freshman year. I lived in Brumby, and I was amazed at the sense of community that I felt within my first 15 minutes of being there.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received from a family member, instructor or mentor?

The best piece of advice I’ve received was from a high school teacher and have never forgotten in college. They told me that no matter what classes I take, always leave time to take a course every so often that teaches a technical skill. That way no matter where I end up, I have various strengths that can set me apart.

Favorite app or social media channel?

Definitely Instagram! I love seeing what everyone is doing through photos.

What is your most memorable Grady experience:

While taking a public relations elective last semester, my professor, Mike Cacciatore, surprised us during our first class on Zoom with Sony Michel (former UGA and current New England Patriots running back) as a guest speaker. It was a great way to relieve the stress of the quarantine period that had just started!

Morning person or night owl?

I am always a night owl.

Editor’s Note: Some of the above answers have been edited for length and/or clarity. 

The #ProfilesOfTenacity series–formerly the #GradyGrit–is a set of student features highlighting the strength, determination and leadership of students in Grady College. Stay tuned to see how #ProfilesofTenacity evolve in the future.