Name: Alyssa Sachs
Hometown: Appleton, WI
Year: Sophomore
Major/Minor: Professional and Organizational Communications/Spanish, Photography
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Outgoing, Driven, and Funny …but I don’t know if everyone finds me funny.
What are some of your hobbies?
Taking photos, rollerblading, doing makeup is fun.
When did you become interested in photography?
I think it was in middle school, in 7th or 8th grade. I got a Nikon camera that was a step up from a point and shoot camera, and I liked going around taking pictures of things and seeing the world differently.
Do you have a favorite photographer?
Since I like portraits, definitely Danae Herrmann from the Appleton area…her photos look very natural and she can always find a way to make people look good in a natural way, which is important in portraiture.
What’s your favorite thing to shoot?
Definitely people. There’s a lot more to work with and a lot more variety with people.
One of Alyssa’s recent photos
What advice would you give to someone who wants to become a freelance photographer?
Take as many photos as you can. Don’t be afraid to ask your friends to take pictures, and really just build your portfolio that way.
How do you like to spend your free time?
I like anything outdoors, or hanging out with my friends and going on adventures with them.
Why did you choose UWL?
That is a good question…La Crosse was the last school I toured and I just really liked the area, and how it’s smaller but not too small. It’s the perfect distance from home. Not to mention, I’d heard of the social scene here.
What’s your favorite thing about La Crosse?
Probably the scenery. The bluffs and the area in general is very different from home…like a smaller version of Colorado, super pretty.
What advice would you give to a freshman on making friends?
Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and meet new people. Don’t be too shy to adventure to different people’s rooms and introduce yourself.
What are you involved in on campus?
As of now, I’m in Comm Club. I heard there’s a photography club. I definitely want to join that at some point.
What does an ideal Friday night look like to you?
Definitely hanging out with my friends, and meeting new people at parties. I just like getting to unwind by dancing or singing and having fun with my friends.
What do you plan on doing after college?
I’m thinking I’ll continue my education by getting my masters degree, or possibly move to a bigger city. Maybe Minneapolis, who knows. From there, finding a job that fits me.
What’s your favorite book?
Hmmm, that’s a good question…The Fault in Our Stars, because I’ve read that at least 3 times and it’s just so good. Cliche, I know. Fifty shades of Grey is good too.
What’s your go-to song right now?
Probably “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran.
If you were at The Pearl, what flavor of ice cream would you get?
Blue Moon. I don’t know why. Everyone hates it but I really like Blue Moon, especially with a sprinkle waffle cone.
Do you have any pet peeves?
One of them would be when people walk slowly in front of me. That’s a big one because I’m a fast walker.
What makes you laugh?
A good joke, memes, anything that has to do with SpongeBob! Funny animal videos, too.
Get to know more about Alyssa and her photography on her facebook page!