Kara Damiano
Age: 20
Hometown: North Reading, Massachusetts
Major: Strategic Communications
What are you involved in on campus?
I am involved in a TON of different aspects of campus life! I love being busy and always feel the need to be doing something. Most of my time is spent doing different things for Zeta Tau Alpha. Being a part of ZTA has really shaped my time at Elon, so I love being able to make an impact on the organization. Right now I am a member of the Executive Council as Historian Reporter/PR Chair, and I am also choreographing Greek Week Dance! On top of ZTA, I’m a Tour Guide, Leadership Fellow and member of both P.R.S.S.A. and O∆K.
Looking back at your past 3 years, what are you most proud of?
Looking back on my past 3 years, I am the most proud of my decision to study abroad in Florence, Italy for a semester. It was such an incredible experience and gave me the opportunity to absorb a new culture and travel all around Europe. Choosing to go abroad for a semester instead of just winter term was absolutely the best decision. I am proud of the fact that I took advantage of everything the city had to offer. I made sure to visit all of the incredible sights and try as many new dishes as possible, yum!
What do you want people to remember you as?
I want people to remember me as someone who can make people smile. It’s my goal to brighten at least one person’s day, every day. Whether it’s through the power of positive energy, or an attempt to be funny that actually succeeds, this is what I aim for in my life. Small, friendly, genuine acts of kindness make all the difference.
What is the thing you enjoy most about Elon?
This is a good question. I mean, what do I not enjoy about Elon??? Obviously the stunning, picturesque campus and fountains are great. But, if I had to come up with a more creative answer, I would say that all of the funny twitter accounts about Elon have really been cracking me up lately. Xoxo, Gossip Squirrel.
Do you have any advice for others in leadership positions?
The biggest piece of advice for anyone in a leadership position is to gain people’s respect. Once you have earned the respect of your peers, all other good leadership tactics will automatically follow. Best way to do it? Lead by example!
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my (lack of) free time I like to relax and catch up with all my friends. I have such a big yet close-knit group of friends here at Elon, it’s rare we get to all spend time together. Every time it is possible, we take full advantage of it!
What do you plan on doing after college?
After college I hope to work at a big, creative advertising firm. Growing up at a time before DVR allowed us to fast forward, I always caught myself commenting on every single commercial on TV. Even as a child I would call companies out after their commercials, saying “I don’t even know what that ad was supposed to be for,” or “That toy looks so cool I want it!” There was always a natural interest I had for spotting effective advertisements and campaigns. I even remember always asking for Gushers at the grocery store because I wanted to see if my head would actually grow and explode. Now that I have grown up, I realize that I am fascinated by what it is exactly that makes a good commercial. My dream job is to think of and develop ad campaigns that are completely out-there and will always be remembered.