Ever wonder how to get the most desirable luxuries of life for the cheapest price? Maria Menounos, who attended Emerson between 1999 and 2002, claims to know, and is revealing how in her new book, The EveryGirl’s Guide to Life. The 32-year-old journalist, actor, and now, published author will be signing copies of and reading excerpts from her book tomorrow from 5-7 p.m. at the Emerson Barnes & Noble.
Menounos is best known for hosting Access Hollywood. In the past she has worked on Entertainment Tonight, The Today Show, and NBC Nightly News, as well as small roles in films such as The Fantastic Four and TV shows including One Tree Hill.
“The event with Maria will be a conversation rather than a formal presentation,” Carole McFall, Director of Media Relations at Emerson College said in an email interview with the Beacon. “[It’s] a chance to meet, interact with, and be inspired by an Emerson alum who’s enjoying a wonderful career.”
Kathleen Montero, a freshman broadcast journalism major, is excited to meet Menounos. “When I saw her on Access Hollywood, I knew what I wanted to do in terms of my career,” she told the Beacon. “This is why I came to Emerson. I’m looking forward to telling her how much she inspired me at the book signing.”
The EveryGirl’s Guide to Life covers what Menounos believes to be essential for women to “live a healthier and happier life”, she wrote in her book. Topics range from relationships to health advice. She also explains how to climb the ladder in the career world.
As a Medford native, Menounos’s success started with beauty pageants when she was crowned Miss Massachussetts Teen USA at the age of 18 in 1996. In 2000, Menounos was crowned first runner-up Miss Massachusettss USA. She began her television career as a reporter for Channel One News during her senior year at Emerson. Because of the job, she left school before graduating, and Registrar records indicate that she never returned.
In case you miss her tomorrow, Menounos will be returning to Emerson to receive an award at this year’s 30th annual EVVYs.
Menounos will speak and sign copies of her book at the Emerson Barnes and Noble Friday from 5-7 p.m.