Emma Morley, the protagonist of One Day alongside Dexter Mayhew, is a multi-faceted character who undergoes a transformative journey of Personal Growth and Self-Discovery throughout the novel, evolving significantly over the years. Initially portrayed as idealistic and optimistic, Emma graduates with high aspirations of making a difference in the world after achieving a first-class degree in English and History. She is outspoken about her political beliefs—her room, as described by Dexter, is “a manifesto,” full of “art postcards and photocopied posters for angry plays,” and she is “of those girls who used ‘bourgeois’ as a term of abuse” (15). Emma holds a disdain for materialism and judges Dexter as shallow for wanting to pursue wealth and fame. At the same time, she doesn’t feel prepared for adulthood and is apprehensive about the future. Physically, the younger Emma is characterized by her disheveled red hair, puffy skin, plump chin, large and bright eyes, and rosy cheeks—physical traits that complement her vibrant personality and youthful idealism.

Emma confronts the harsh realities of life after college as she moves to London. Despite her efforts, she struggles to find a job that resonates with her. Working as a server, she feels trapped and disillusioned, sensing that London has crushed her aspirations.