Where did you grow up and do you have any siblings? Pets?
I’m West LA, born and raised! I have an older brother, living with him was sort of like having a pet.
What 5 things would you wish you had if you were stranded on a deserted island?
My guitar, a pen, a notepad, a radio and a multi-tool.
What is your current occupation / what do you do outside of KCRW?
I’m a student at SMC, an editor for the school newspaper and I DJ at KCHUNG.
What is your fantasy occupation?
Either starting pitcher for the Dodgers or radio DJ. Not sure which route I’m going to take yet.
When did you first discover KCRW?
I got really into music radio in high school. I started listening to Henry Rollins’ show because I read his LA Weekly column. Soon after I just started listening to KCRW all the time!
How did you find your way to our station for volunteering?
At the end of high school, I found out about the SMC KCRW internship and applied right away. I’ve done a bit of work in print/digital publications, and I wanted to explore the broadcast side of journalism.
What’s your current volunteer position and how long have you been at it?
I’ve been an intern since September, working in the front office, assisting some of the night DJs and volunteering at events.
Favorite volunteer moment?
Just working alongside and getting to know other volunteers and staff members. Everybody I’ve met through KCRW has amazing stories to share with one another. During Drive week, I had a really great conversation with a caller about their love for KCRW. They ended up becoming an Angel member that day. It’s great to know that when I connect with people through KCRW, I am contributing towards a better community. Oh, and Pie Day is definitely up there as well. So. Much. Pie.
If you could get on the mic and say one sentence on the air, what would it be?
“And you’re listening to member-supported KCRW…”
What song(s) have you hit repeat on lately?
Getting Young by Soundbeam Sun Machine.
Favorite book, movie?
The Prophet by Khalil Gibran, Jackie Brown.
Favorite thing to do outside the station?
Anything having to do with music, like going to record shops or seeing bands play live. I play guitar and bass, and write music all the time. Also, I enjoy non-competitive eating and going for a swim on a hot day.
What does KCRW mean to you?
KCRW is like sitting down on the Metro and realizing the guy next to you is carrying the same book as you. And then you strike up an amazing conversation and become best friends with them. KCRW is a space for cultural and intellectual conversation to grow. Los Angeles is such a spread out city, and KCRW has built a small, actively engaged community within that. Tuning in and working at KCRW fills me with so much new, important knowledge every day!
Alissa is on a path to a professional career in media and will surely be a rising star in the years to come. Can’t wait to see all the interesting things she puts her name on!
ps. she’s got team spirit!
