We had the good fortune of connecting with Claudia Wallace and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Claudia, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
When it comes to risk taking I view the risk as the reward. What I mean by this is, when debating whether or not to take the risk, I immediately imagine a scenario in which the risk pays off. If one is considering doing anything in life, they should consider doing it to the fullest. Also take into consideration, “What if it works out?” “What if it actually goes according to plan?” If we spend all of our time harping on the possibility of negatives, then those possibilities become realities.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have always put 100% into everything that I do, which is one of the things that sets me apart from others. This semester I am tackling my studies, my job, my extracurriculars, preparing for the LSAT, and raising a dog! It certainly can seem overwhelming at times, however I find that tasks are more enjoyable when you act as though you genuinely care about what you are doing. For example, if you work at a makeup store and someone comes in asking about “Pink Sugar Eau de Toilette” act as though for 5 minutes that Pink Sugar is your absolute favorite fragrance in the world. Another example, if I am assigned a 10 page paper on the Constitution, I am putting myself in the headspace of James Madison, and so forth, and so on. Moreover, if one finds themselves dreading the activity of a task, they might as well put the 100% into it the first time. That is, in order to prevent having to tackle it a second.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My favorite spot to go on the weekend is in Greenville. When my friends and I want to escape the local college scene, we raid each other’s closets and head over to Up On The Roof. There we can enjoy delicious and affordable, Instagram-worthy appetizers, and cocktails. The entire restaurant is full of amazing views of Greenville, and has many great photo ops. I particularly love the restaurant when it is fall/winter and they have the glass fire pits on the roof going. It is definitely super trendy, and a great vibe for girls night, date night, and even families. I’ve had plenty of memorable times hanging there with my dad and mom as well!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost I owe all of my work ethic, and resilience to my parents who have taught me “You must work hard for nice things in life.” For 21 years I have watched the two of them collectively thrive in providing a beautiful life for my sister and I, and I aim to repay them for all of their generosity. Secondly I would like to give love and immense gratitude to my dog Rico Suave who I adopted from the Greenville Humane Society earlier this year. Taking on the responsibility of caring for another creature, besides myself has allowed me to grow in many different ways, and I am very grateful for the unconditional love he provides me with. I would also like to take time to give thanks to all of my incredible friends, who lift me up, and inspire me each day through their empowerment, and presence. 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/claudiawallacee?igsh=MTd1NGt4Z2Y4ZDM5OQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

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