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

Hi Maria, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I’m all about taking risks. After all, no great story is made without taking a leap, right?

As we grow older, it’s often the things we didn’t try or were too scared to pursue that we think about the most. How can you know if something is right for you or if you’re good at it if you don’t give it a shot? Stepping out of your comfort zone and pushing your limits is how you learn and grow.

When I moved from Greece to New York, it was the biggest risk I’d ever taken—starting over in a huge city, knowing no one, and figuring things out as I went.
Was it scary? Absolutely!
Was it worth it? Without a doubt!

It changed my life in ways I couldn’t have imagined. I’d take that risk again in a heartbeat. For me, taking risks is what makes life interesting and beautiful, filled with memories and experiences that truly warm your heart.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Being where I am right now, certainly it wasn’t easy…in so many ways. Back in Greece, I worked two jobs to fund my education, with my parents’ invaluable support backing me all the way.

And moving to New York presented its own set of challenges, especially when starting from scratch in such a vast city. Arriving from Greece, New York seemed overwhelmingly big and unfamiliar. However, over time, I met incredible people and fell in love with the city. Throughout my journey, I’ve tried to keep my focus on my dreams. Having a clear vision of what you want and how you want your life to be is a powerful motivator.

Looking ahead I know there’s still a lot more I want to achieve. My journey has only just begun.

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?
One week in New York is never enough! With so many things to do and interesting places to visit, it’s hard to fit it all in. But I would definitely try for my best friend!

I would probably start with some must-see spots that I think she’ll love too. Like, Central Park, Times Square, the Empire State Building, the High Line etc. Also, West Village is another great area to explore, with its tree-lined streets, charming brownstone houses, and cozy cafes.

As a big fan of good food and cocktails, I’ll be choosing a few standout restaurants and cocktail bars from my long list of favorites, especially around Brooklyn. And of course, we will dive into New York’s vibrant nightlife—there’s nothing like experiencing the city at night.

I, also , feel that the people you meet in New York are another highlight. You never know who you might run into or the interesting people you might meet. New York is a city full of opportunities and has something for everyone, no matter your interests or how you want to spend your time. New York has it!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My family truly deserves a lot of credit for everything. My parents and my sister have been incredibly supportive throughout my journey, from encouraging my passion for acting to backing me through my studies and career. Their unwavering belief in me has kept me motivated and focused on my goals, even when things got tough.Their support and understanding have been essential in shaping my path and achievements. Additionally, my friends have played a crucial role by encouraging and supporting me throughout my journey. They have kept me grounded and motivated every step of the way.

And for that, I thank them all so much. I am so lucky to have them, all!

Website: https://www.mariakoron.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/mariakoron?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

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