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Q&A With a Merritt Group-er: Get to Know Francesca El-Attrash

by | Aug 15, 2018

Francesca-El-Attrash

What do you do at Merritt Group?

I’m a Government Writer on the Content Services Team at Merritt Group. I create content, copy edit, form content strategy and provide government policy and marketing perspective for clients selling technologies to the public sector.

What’s your greatest moment — whether in work, school or marketing/PR — so far?

I’ll never forget my summer at the State Department when I worked in the Foreign Service Institute, helping coordinate, plan and execute ambassadorial seminars. I got a taste of the world of diplomacy, got to meet incredibly passionate and motivated people in government and even got to snag a picture with former Secretary of State, John Kerry. That internship experience really ignited my passion and drive to work in and around the public sector.

Who do you love to follow on Twitter or Instagram and why?

I’m a big fan of Trevor Noah @theDailyShow. He’s so witty and his commentary on U.S. society and politics are spot on.

What’s your favorite piece of technology?

Right now, I’m pretty obsessed with my smartwatch. I can’t go anywhere without it. I appreciate how it keeps me motivated to stay fit by “yelling” at me to stand up, take a walk or burn a few more calories.

What’s your favorite thing about living in the Washington, D.C., area?

I love being at the political center of everything happening in this country. And there’s so much diversity, culture and history to take advantage of – whether it’s the museums, restaurants or being minutes away from Federal Triangle.

What’s the best book you’ve read recently?

I’ve been telling everyone about Yaa Gyasi’s Homegoing. It’s a powerful, gut-wrenching read that traces 300 years of history surrounding slavery and colonialism starting from two sisters in Ghana separated at birth by a fire. The storytelling is so well done – it’s a must-read as a contemporary American novel.

What are your podcast recommendations?

My top two at the moment are Call Your Girlfriend with Aminatou Sow and Ann Friedman and Another Round with Tracy Clayton and Heben Nigatu. I love me some good real talk about racial politics, feminism and everything else in between.

What’s your favorite Merritt Group memory?

On my first day, the team hosted a book club discussion on how to give and receive feedback in the workplace – topped with catering from Roti! It was an insightful discussion and a great way to start.

What’s one thing you can’t live without?

My faith is very important to me – I can’t travel anywhere out of town without my Bible and daily devotional.

What’s the most interesting item on your desk?

I’ve got pics of my fam and little ones all over the place. Additionally, anyone who knows me knows I’m a big Beyoncé fan. A dear friend of mine painted me a picture of a quote from her Lemonade album – “Imma keep running ‘cause a winner don’t quit on themselves.”

Get to know more of our staff in our ongoing Q&A blog series or visit Who We Are. Want to join our amazing team? Check out our open positions

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