Kate Searby, 27
Lives in: DC.
Makes a living: Working for an Internet startup.
Background: I grew up in San Francisco. Ever since I was a little girl, I was into social-justice issues. I could see I had a lot more than other kids. There wasn’t a level playing field.
I thought I’d be a special-education teacher. I went to Duke and worked with handicapped kids. Then I went to grad school at Georgetown and studied new media and international rights.
I spent a summer volunteering in Nepal at a leprosy clinic and studied meditation at a Buddhist monastery, which was amazing and life-changing. It made me more appreciative of how blessed I’ve been, and it got me thinking about a career in international development.
When I came back to the U.S. I thought I’d get a job with something like USAID, but I just sort of fell into the job I’m in now, running health Web sites. We’re empowering people with information that they wouldn’t otherwise have. I love it.
Dating history: I started dating when I was about 15. In high school, I always had a boyfriend. In college, I had one serious boyfriend whom I dated for a year and a half. About three years ago, I was part of a dating issue that The Washingtonian did on eligible singles. After that, a friend set me up on a blind date. We ended up going out for a year and a half. I’m really enjoying life and experiences as they come. I’m not in a hurry to settle down and get married. I date a lot, but that’s because I like meeting people. Dating someone seriously hasn’t been a focus for me over the last few years. I’ve been pursuing other interests. Finding a partner will fall into place when it’s right.
Your type: I don’t want to say I’m picky, but I know what I like. If we’re not connecting, then I don’t want to waste his time or mine. The guy I tend to go for is very interested in the world around us. He’s into politics and well-traveled and shares my passion for human rights. He wants to see every corner of the world, even if that means roughing it and not showering for a week. He’s compassionate, and he treats the CEO and the janitor the same way. He’s got an edge and is up for spur-of-the-moment trips. I would prefer someone who is politically progressive. I’m kind of a sucker for the tall, dark, and handsome type, but that’s secondary. The attraction for me really comes from the other things.
Celebrity crush: Barack Obama.
Things that sweep you off your feet: Passion and adventure.
Deal breakers: Being rude to a waiter or a valet. Guys that don’t like animals. (I have two dogs and volunteer for a rescue organization. I want a guy who will go to the dog park with me.) Anybody who’s intolerant or prejudiced or sexist.
Finish these sentences:
My high school prom was . . . a total blast!
“Happily ever after” is . . . being surrounded by my loved ones and knowing that I’ve made a positive impact on the world.
John McCain is . . . an American hero.
Barack Obama is . . . the most inspiring, compelling presidential candidate of my lifetime.
FAVORITES
Tunes: I always love the Beatles and the Grateful Dead. I love Radiohead.
TV: Arrested Development, Family Guy, Simpsons
Movies: Caddyshack, Coming to America
Books: Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris, Running with Scissors by Augusten Burroughs, The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera
Restaurant: Nora, which is all organic, and Hook, which is all sustainable.
Bar: Marvin, 18th Street Lounge, The Rock and Roll Hotel, and Local 16
Drink: Martini, extra-dirty with extra olives
Sport: To watch, college basketball. To play, tennis.
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