Often times, getting to know our Husky women outside of their role as a tennis player is hard to come by. So, in an attempt to help you learn a little about her off-the-court, Natali Coronel, sat down to answer some questions you may have been wondering...

Do you have a nickname?

Natali Coronel (NC): Yes, usually I am called, "Nati," by many people I know and within my team. It is a typical nickname for Natali, Natalia and Natacha in Argentine. I have also grown to like another nickname I have now, "Nat," which my coach, Jill, came up with... Only she can call me that!

What is your family life like?

NC: I have 2 younger siblings; sisters who I adore so much! There is Karen, who is 10 years old and Stephanie, who is 15. We all have a 5 year age difference which is sometimes tough but, mostly, we are so close and loving of one another. At home, we have 2 dogs, Boni and Kiara. My lovely mother is a school principal and a manager of another. She works extremely hard, is very supportive of our family and I am proud to have her!

What is something you did that not many people may know about?

NC: Well, when I was younger, I used to do diving. Actually, I was going to become competitive in that sport before I was introduced to tennis. In high school, for fun, I played handball and participated in ribbon dancing performances as well. 

What is your favorite day of the week?

NC: Before coming to school here, I would have always answered with 'Friday' because the weekend follows and I could relax and enjoy it. Now, Fridays, and the weekend that follows, usually includes competition, traveling, homework, presentations, studying and exams! I would say that now I do my best to find enjoyment in everyday, no matter how much is on my plate!

You are from South America, what is a big cultural difference that you encounter here in the States?

NC: Honestly, I don't know where to start! For me, the United States is just a different world from my own. In particular, I am amazed how critical thinking is encouraged. There are so many different perspectives out there! America has opened my eyes to many things: open-mindedness and the centrality of communication. All of this has made me more willing to share my personal thoughts and realize that I have a lot to contribute and offer.

If you met someone touring Seattle, where would you recommend them to eat?

NC: Blue C Sushi in University Village. I enjoy the variety of food and the colorful, refreshing environment that is there. It is a great place to be with friends or by yourself. 

Who are your favorite music artists? Most played songs on your iPod?

NC: My favorite music genre is Popular music so my favorite artists reflect that: Kelly Clarkson, Maroon 5, Bruno Mars, Katy Perry and Rihanna. I listen to so many songs constantly and there is so much out there. I will say right now my most played are, "Daylight" and "Payphone" by Maroon 5; "Stay" by Rihanna; "Try" by P!nk; and "When I Was Your Man" by Bruno Mars.

Who are your favorite actors?

Russell Crowe in, "Beautiful Mind," "Robin Hood," "The Next Three Days" and, of course, "Gladiator." He is so mysterious and intriguing. Another is, Haley Joel Osment from, "The Sixth Sense," "Artificial Intelligence," and "Pay it Forward." He has a great ability to connect with the audience and really draws on your emotions, even at such a young age! There's also, Natalie Portman, Kristin Stewart and Nina Dobrev whom I also enjoy.

What is a movie that you can watch over and over again?

NC: The first movie of the Twilight Saga. I have read the books and because I've been in an advanced digital video class, I really appreciate the cinematography of Katherine Hardwicke in this movie. The work she did is so fascinating. She created an atmosphere--with tone composition and unusual camera angles--that allowed me, as a viewer, to strongly connect with the story that was being told. 

Do you have a favorite professor here at the University?

NC: My favorite professor is Lee Osterhout in PSYCH 101. Although there was A LOT of course material, he made the it so interesting and fun that it wasn't hard to complete. His organization skills and teaching methods were amazing. I really appreciate the care, motivation and creativity he brought to every single class. I would take it again! 

If you were giving someone a "life tip," what would it be? And, can you explain why you might tell them that?

NC: The problem is not the problem itself, but our attitude to face it and courage to confront it. Someone once told me this in regards to how 'life,' in many ways, depends on our ability to solve the problems we encounter every day. No matter how well an individual might be doing in the many aspects of their life, problems will always arise. It is important to not give too much of our selves to those issues. Staying in the present and keeping in mind all of the good things that exist is enough to help a person separate the minor from the serious, and resolve problems in a positive way. Working towards your happiness is key!

What are you studying here at the UW?

NC: I will attempt to major in Psychology, not for the career opportunities, but mainly for personal growth and the critical life skills. Also, I am considering minoring in Public Health because I love helping and improving peoples' lives. 

Big thanks to Ms. Coronel for taking the time out of her busy schedule! Wish her luck as she competes in a pair of dual matches at home on Friday, Mar.22 @ 1:30p vs. USC and Saturday, Mar. 23 @ 12p vs UCLA! Be there! ~Go Purple. Be Gold~ 

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