Her Story
About Elise
Elise Donnellan is a dedicated student, student-athlete, and aspiring healthcare professional with a strong foundation in education, childcare, youth development, and community service. As a senior at Marblehead High School, she has gained valuable hands-on experience working with children through her role at the Devereux School, where she supports preschool and elementary-aged students in a Montessori and French-immersion learning environment during summer programs and serves as a substitute during the school year. She also works as a hostess at the Boston Yacht Club and serves as an assistant coach with Marblehead Parks & Recreation, helping young athletes develop their skills while fostering teamwork, confidence, and sportsmanship.
Driven by a passion for helping others, Elise has developed experience in early childhood education, camp counseling, youth sports coaching, and hospitality while balancing her academic responsibilities. Her work with children has strengthened her patience, adaptability, and ability to provide individualized support for students with diverse learning styles and behavioral needs. Outside of her professional roles, she is actively involved in community service through Meals on Wheels, My Brother's Table, Best Buddies, Special Olympics, and the MSPCA, reflecting her ongoing commitment to serving others and making a positive impact in her community.
Looking toward the future, Elise plans to attend Simmons University to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with the long-term goal of specializing in pediatric psychiatric nursing. Inspired by the advice to never begin with "I can't," she approaches every opportunity with determination, perseverance, and a willingness to learn. Guided by the values of kindness, honesty, patience, and hard work, Elise is committed to building a career centered on compassionate care, advocacy, and improving the lives of children and families through healthcare.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Elise
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, perseverance, patience, and always striving toward my future goals. Working with children has taught me the importance of remaining patient, especially when supporting those with different learning styles or behavioral challenges. I believe that consistently putting forth my best effort, maintaining a positive attitude, and staying committed to personal growth have helped me succeed both academically and professionally.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I have ever received came from my dad: never start by saying, "I can't." You never truly know what you are capable of until you are willing to try. That mindset has encouraged me to approach new opportunities with confidence, challenge myself, and continue learning through every experience.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges of working with children is recognizing that every child has unique personalities, learning styles, and individual needs. Some children may face behavioral challenges or require additional support, making it important to remain patient, adaptable, and willing to tailor my approach to help each child feel comfortable, supported, and successful. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and reinforced the importance of individualized care.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me are kindness, honesty, patience, positivity, and a strong work ethic. I believe it is important to treat everyone with compassion because you never know what someone else may be experiencing. Whether I am working with children, volunteering in my community, or interacting with others, I strive to be supportive, honest, and respectful while maintaining a positive attitude and giving my best effort in everything I do.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.