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Lessons from Monica Geller: The Power of Passion and Perseverance

The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at NCSU chapter.

I tend to think I have a little of Monica Geller in me. Seriously, organization is a big thing for me.

Not just clean. Monica clean. https://br.pinterest.com/pin/6755468182497942/

For those familiar with the TV show Friends (like me :)), we know who Monica Geller is.

She is not Ross’s sister. She is not Chandler’s wife. She is not the Friend who somehow managed to put her head on a turkey. She is not a “strictly organized neat freak”.

https://br.pinterest.com/pin/5418462041174361/

I mean, she is all that, but she is not only that.

Monica Geller with an actual turkey in her head. https://br.pinterest.com/pin/137430226131176348/

Monica Geller is a vibrant and driven character known for her strong personality, competitiveness, and obsessive cleanliness. As a chef with a passion for cooking, she showcases an unwavering dedication to her craft, often channeling her energy into her culinary creations and her relationships. Monica’s journey throughout the show teaches us valuable lessons about resilience, the importance of friendship, and the power of love.

Her relationship with Chandler Bing- another amazing character- is a beautiful evolution from friendship to romance, characterized by humor, support, and deep emotional connection. Together, they navigate the ups and downs of life, highlighting themes of commitment and partnership. Monica’s fierce loyalty and caring nature complement Chandler’s more laid-back personality, creating a perfect balance that shows how love can flourish in the most unexpected ways. Their relationship serves as a reminder that true love often requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to grow together. 

Best. Couple. Ever. Goals. s2. https://br.pinterest.com/pin/6614730696704227/

Don’t get me wrong. For me, their relationship is one of my favorite- if not my favorite- relationships in fiction. Richard was simply not the love of her life, and nobody can convince me of the opposite. However, Monica’s character is not only characterized by this relationship. 

Monica Geller embodies strength and resilience through her firm determination to overcome challenges, both personal and professional. From her struggles with infertility to her journey in the competitive culinary world, Monica consistently demonstrates that setbacks are merely stepping stones to success. Her drive to excel as a chef showcases her passion and commitment, inspiring those around her (and watching her!!) to pursue their own dreams. 

Welcome to the real world. It sucks. #true https://br.pinterest.com/pin/422281210905467/

Monica’s journey throughout the TV show teaches us that strength comes from facing our fears, embracing our passions, and surrounding ourselves with people who uplift us. Her character serves as a powerful reminder that resilience, combined with the pursuit of what we love, leads to fulfillment and joy.

I don’t get older. I just get better. #facts. https://br.pinterest.com/pin/68745036958/
Hi everyone! My name is Elisa Schlesner Alves, and I am a current senior at North Carolina State University studying Chemical Engineering. I am originally from Brazil but moved to the United States with my family in 2019. I completed my high school education, and in 2021 I was admitted to NC State! Go Pack! I just joined HER, and I am currently a writer. I decided to join HER CAMPUS to explore my writing side! I love reading articles about all the different things, so I am very excited to be part of this organization! I am very passionate about my field of study and research. I chose to do engineering because I love taking and facing new challenges and using my knowledge to think of new solutions to existing problems! I am also a huge fan of Chemistry and Mathematics/Calculus, as well as Biology. My education takes most of my time, but there are many additional things I love to do! I enjoy playing with my two cats- Frederico and Leia-, going window shopping, reading (Harry Potter <3), listening to music (I am a huge Britney Spears fan :)!!), going to coffee shops, going on walks either by myself or accompanied by friends, learning new languages (I love Spanish!!), and cleaning/organizing stuff! I am ready to graduate start my professional career and contribute to driving solutions for a more sustainable and ethical industry!