What’s your full name? 

Megan Eileen Russell

Were you named after anyone?

Yes, I was named after my Grandma, Eileen Barret.

What’s your average day like?

It’s not very exciting. I wake up around 6:30 a.m. to shower and get ready for work. I usually grab something quick like a banana and peanut butter for breakfast and drive to work. Once I get to work, I make a cup of coffee and head to my desk where I spend the majority of my day answering calls and checking in/out appointments.

At 5:30 p.m. I either make dinner with friends or loved ones, and then watch something entertaining until it is time for bed.

How far away do you live from where you were born? 

260 miles (Carson City, NV)

What do you consider to be your “home”?

Gilroy, CA

What’s your ideal way to spend the holidays?

I enjoy spending the holidays surrounded by family and friends sharing stories, laughs, delicious food and drinks.

What items do you always take with you when you leave the house?

My keys, ID, purse, phone, charger, and debit card.

When you look in the mirror, what do you notice first?

How much I have changed over the last few years. I’m getting old.

If you could change something about your appearance, what would it be?

Probably my weight. I have gained a lot over the last 5 years and have not felt the same about myself since.

What do you first notice in strangers?

I generally pay notice their temperament before anything else.

What do think people say about you?

Friends say that I’m a cupcake. Meaning that I’m sweet and/or innocent. No clue what a stranger might say about me though.

What would you hope they would say?

I would hope that friends say I’m thoughtful and that strangers think I seem friendly and approachable.

What is your proudest moment? Biggest victory?

I’m not sure that this is my proudest moment, but it the only thing that comes to mind. When I was a sophomore (high school) I auditioned for a spot in the best choir my school had to offer. It seemed like an unattainable goal, especially for someone with stage fright and low self-esteem. After a lot of pushing by my best friend, Tommy, I finally decided to give it a shot. With my heart racing and adrenaline level high, the audition was a blur.

The list of people our instructor selected was posted the following week, and I made it. I was so proud of myself for not letting my insecurities get in the way of my happiness.

What is your biggest regret? Biggest failure? 

Dropping out of college. Not for me, but because of how much I disappointed my family.

If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be?

I would like to have more self-confidence.

What makes life worth living?

Family, friends, music, art and the idea that there is always something new and exciting in the future.

What is the one rule you try to live by? Do you feel successful at following it? 

The golden rule.

I’m not perfect, but I can look in the mirror and feel good about myself.