Marisa

Marisa, 33
Chicago, IL

Strong, empathetic, funny
Photographed in Chicago's Loop

“I’m proud of my work, tied to my independence. I’m a third-generation strong, entrepreneurial-minded woman. My grandmother owned her own business in Des Moines; when she opened it, there were no other women-owned businesses. My mom is also in the recruiting industry—I’m a second-generation recruiter—she also started her own business that she’s had 15 years now. I was brought up to be very independent and not rely on anyone—including a man.

Because of that, I was able to go to college with the help of my mom and myself, because I’ve been working since I was 15. I graduated with college debt, as most people do, but I worked hard and paid it off in 8 years when, in reality, it was supposed to take 20. I worked my butt off. Now, I’m debt-free and able to do something I’ve always wanted to do: Look at [something] and buy it without worrying about financial issues. It’s empowering to be able to afford things on my own.

My idol is Beyoncé, and on mornings I need a pick-me-up, I listen to her—especially her song ‘Formation.’ Her quote is ‘I dream it, I work hard, I grind ‘til I own it.’ 

So own it. Work hard—put your head down, stay away from the gossip—and just know that the end result will pay off. It’s better to come from the bottom to make you appreciate the top.”