What's It Like to Have a Name Like Doneisha Nouzille?

I've always been proud of my name, Doneisha Nouzille. It's unique, it's beautiful, and it's a conversation starter.

But let me tell you, it's also a magnet for funny stories.

The time I got called "Denise Nozzle"

I was in fourth grade when a new teacher called me "Denise Nozzle" on the first day of school. I remember turning bright red and staring at her in disbelief. "It's Doneisha," I corrected her, my voice barely above a whisper.

She apologized, but the nickname stuck. For the rest of the year, my classmates teased me mercilessly, calling me "Nose Nozzle" and "Sneeze Nozzle." It was mortifying, but I learned to laugh it off.

The time I got my name mispronounced

I've heard my name mispronounced in every way imaginable. There's been "Dun-isha," "Doh-nee-sha," and my personal favorite, "Dun-izzle."

One time, I was at a doctor's appointment and the receptionist kept calling me "Donnasia." I corrected her three times, but she refused to believe me. Finally, I gave up and just went with it. I was "Donnasia" for the rest of the day.

The time I got a letter addressed to "Dr. Doneisha Nouzille"

I was in college when I received a letter addressed to "Dr. Doneisha Nouzille." I was so confused. I'm not a doctor! I'm just a student!

I opened the letter and it turned out to be from a medical supply company. They were offering me a discount on medical equipment. I guess my name just sounded like that of a doctor to them.

I didn't need any medical equipment, but I thought it was funny. I still have that letter somewhere.

My name has brought me a lot of joy over the years. It's made me more confident, it's helped me make friends, and it's given me a lifetime of funny stories to tell.

So if you're ever thinking about changing your name, I say go for it! Just be prepared for a few laughs along the way.