Born on the East Coast, but this Laner was raised in the West. Proudly reppin' the Bay Area! She's full of bubbles and laughter and loves meeting people. Carissa primarily works as an actor now, but has worked in a variety of capacities and industries...writing for Fintech companies, holding a data analyst job at a tech giant, assisting in the global affairs department at a Mayor's office, and hand modeling, just to name a few! Time for a deep dive into the world of Carissa...!
What do you like about Mustard Lane or just working events in general?
I can’t get enough of the energy and excitement at events! It’s such a blast to work with other Laners, meet new faces, and have the opportunity to connect with so many people from different walks of life.
When you're not on the Lane, doin' Laner stuff...what are you doing?!
You can usually find me doing something acting-related, whether it’s working the craft for on-camera productions, theater, or voiceover, etc. Or just expanding my skills and consuming the arts! Otherwise, you might find me reading random Wikipedia articles, banging on the piano, or spending time with friends.
Favorite restaurant or food?
Ooh, this is a hard one... There are so many great dishes and options in California! I’m currently super into Army Stew (budae jjigae). Definitely one of my favorite dishes around, especially on those late nights. As for restaurants, recent highlights include Tartine, Zareen’s in the Bay Area, and Bruxie…the list goes on and on!
Hmmm…thinking about all this is making me hungry! Ha!
What is one of your goals for 2023?
I’m determined to find an easy go-to dish for potluck gatherings! Ideally something delicious and quick that I can whip up from scratch.
Name a place you'd love to travel to. And why?!
Thailand. Seeing extended family there is always a wonderful time, and the food, beaches, and sights are spectacular!
What's your favorite way to spend a day off from your Laner of the Week duties?
Hanging out with friends and loved ones and catching up on movies and shows. I also love hitting up theme parks!
Do you prefer podcasts or books? Favorite one?
Podcasts when I’m on the go. Books when I’m chilling at home. :)
What's your hidden talent?!
I have the ability to fall asleep practically anywhere at any time.
If you could have your dream job tomorrow, what would it be?
I’m loving what I’m doing now, but I wouldn’t say no to encountering a villain as a bouncer in a superhero movie. And then taking them on in a meme-worthy way.
What's an essential part of your Laner-of-the-Week daily routine?
Taking that moment to connect with my breath, and making a conscious effort to do at least one good deed a day for others.
What life lesson did you learn the hard way?
I’d say the importance of gratitude, finding joy in the journey, and not taking anything for granted.
What is your favorite family/friend tradition?
Grabbing brunch with my family and/or friends. Hard to beat French toast and matcha beverages on a day off!
Now that you're Laner of the Week...what's a brand or event that you would love to represent or work should the chance ever arise?
It would be awesome to do some work for an entertainment or a video game brand/event sometime!
What inspires you most, Laner?
Watching amazing projects and productions come together! Or seeing someone challenge themselves or go out of their way to make someone else’s day. Things like that always inspire me to keep growing and striving to take steps forward.
To learn more about Carissa, check out their instagram @carcarnitas!
Check out last month's Blog Feature!