There are many ways to describe Alissa: model, pageant queen, child actress, philanthropist, superhero and Alzheimer activist.. to name a few. We had a chance to sit down and get her full story, and today we’re sharing that full story with you!
Alissa let’s start at the beginning. Please tell us who you are.
AA: Hi everyone! I’m Alissa Anderegg (come say hi @alissaanderegg!): current beauty pageant queen, former child actress, and longtime national Alzheimer’s activist. A self-proclaimed “nerdy blonde,” I graduated with my undergrad degree from Duke and Master’s from Northwestern and now work as a Social Media Manager in New York City!
What issues have you had to face on your way to becoming successful?
AA: Oh my goodness. A LOT. I’ve been so fortunate to have always had such a supportive family and group of friends, but I also went through a lot of tough times growing up– severe bullying, body image issues, the economic impacts of the recession, my grandmother’s severe Alzheimer’s, and so much more. But all these experiences have made me stronger and have shaped me into the woman I am today, and for that I’m so grateful.
Social media has completely changed the landscape for models, actors, photographers, magazines and brands. It’s great to see their huge influence can help promote healthy lifestyles and being active. Do you believe this is the way to have a positive impact on those doubting their own body image?
AA:I absolutely think that anyone in the public eye should use their influence for good (and I’m a HUGE fan of promoting my favorite healthy tips and brands!), but I also think the influence of social media itself– especially on body image– is a tough topic. I’ve found that social media is more often than not an altered reality. We have young girls looking up to FaceTuned images of seemingly perfect women.
I was on a panel discussion about female empowerment at a local high school, and I was given 30 seconds to give my final remarks– and I took the mic, and I told those girls: “YOU ARE ENOUGH. You are beautiful. You are talented. You are empowered. And you don’t need to look like an Instagram model to be important” … and the cheers that went through that crowd are something I will remember for the rest of my life. That message resonated with those girls. I’m not saying to stop using filters or Photoshop or whatever it is… it’s your photo, do what you want! But I am saying that influencers, no matter how big or small, also have to keep it real. Post your perfect photos, but also don’t be afraid to show those not-so-perfect moments– show the cellulite once in a while, take a #nomakeupselfie, post all the outtakes it took to get to the money shot– just do whatever you can to remind your followers that they are all beautiful and nobody is perfect.
We see you as positive, confident and comfortable in your body — can you share your secret?
AA: Honestly, I still sometimes struggle with body confidence just like a lot of girls out there! I started professionally modeling and acting when I was just seven years old, so I’ve constantly been judged on the way I’ve looked. However, as I’ve gotten older I’ve learned that confidence is key. Once you love yourself, everything else in your life becomes so much easier. Making new friends, dating, posing in front of a camera, interviewing for a job– with confidence and a positive outlook, the world is truly your oyster.
As a model and an actress can you share any insight into how these fields overlap?
AA: Once again, it’s all about confidence! I’m a shortie; I don’t have the long legs and stature of a model that’s 5’10”. I acted professionally throughout my childhood and had some incredible training, but it’s not like I ever became a movie star. But when you walk into a shoot or audition or beauty pageant stage, you have to show everyone why you are so amazing (because we all are!). I’ve always believed it’s not the most beautiful girl who wins the crown; it’s the most confident girl who can convince the judges that she is the best person for the job! And projecting confidence (even if you have to fake it until you make it) transcends from modeling and acting to anything you do in your life.
Alissa, we know you’re actively involved in philanthropy. Why is being involved and giving back so important to you?
AA: The importance of philanthropy and giving back to my community have been instilled within me since I was a little girl. But when I found the cause I was especially passionate about– Alzheimer’s advocacy in memory of my Grandma Mary Fran– my desire to make a difference escalated to new heights. For the past 15 years, I’ve used my own struggles as a caregiver as a megaphone to speak for the 5.8 million Americans affected by Alzheimer’s and their families. Now as a working professional and longtime philanthropist, it is my turn to spread my motto of “Educate, Empower, Activate” to encourage others to pinpoint their passions and use those passions to make a difference.
2020 has been a rollercoaster of emotions. Can you tell us some life lessons you’ve learned this year and what you’ll be bringing with you into 2021?
AA: Even though I always try to radiate positivity both through social media and my “real life,” I’ve learned over the years how important it is to also share my own struggles and keep it real– especially during times like these. Nobody’s life is as perfect as it seems online, and I’ve made it my goal to share not only my highs, but also my lows to show others that they’re not alone. This year, I’ve not only struggled with the anxiety so many have felt from the COVID crisis, but I also experienced half a dozen deaths in my family, went through a rough breakup with someone who I thought was the love of my life, and had to face some difficult life decisions about my future. However, this year has also given me so many incredible moments that I’m incredibly grateful for. I’ve been able to spend more time with my family, compete in (and win!) a beauty pageant to represent the state of New York, and have been incredibly inspired by the millions around the country coming together to enact change. 2020 has shown me that even through the toughest of times, there will always be light at the end of the tunnel.
Before Covid, where have been some of the most memorable places you’ve visited and which one is a must for everyone to see?
AA: That’s a tough question! The world is full of so many incredible places, and I have so many more on my bucket list! Right after I graduated from Duke University, I attended a startup conference in Hong Kong, which I adored. It’s such an incredible place that mixes a rich history with the latest in innovation, and I can’t wait to explore more of Asia in the future. I love the south of France; my first wine tasting experience was in Bordeaux on a weekend trip from studying abroad in Paris. Iceland was also absolutely magical; I visited with almost 20 friends to celebrate a birthday. We rented a few SUVs and explored the country over several days– let me tell you… seeing the Northern Lights is an experience you will never forget.
What is your favorite thing to do in downtime?
AA: I’m a HUGE foodie and love trying new restaurants (sushi is my favorite!). I also love traveling and spending time with my family (and our dog and cats who are THE cutest little things in the world!). I also recently took up golfing… I must admit I’m pretty awful right now haha, but I think it’s so much fun! And of course, I’m very passionate about my philanthropic endeavors– from my involvement in various Alzheimer’s organizations to the Junior League and more.
Lastly, please tell us about your dream collab, who is it and why?
AA: Oh my goodness, where do I begin?! I really admire The Honest Company as a brand. The fact that Jessica Alba used her influence as an actress to spread her mission and become a founder of a $1 billion company? That right there is major girl power.
