L.Alien Presents: Nadya Rousseau

Where are you from and what brought you to L.A.? 
​I am from Hagerstown, Maryland, and moved to L.A. over twelve years ago, originally for love and an acting/modeling contract.

How has being in L.A. changed your life?
I came of age, completely, here. It has shaped my perspectives of people and the world in ways that would not have been possible had I remained in a small town. The characters (on and off screen) I have encountered here are so unique to L.A.! Also, it was my time in the entertainment industry that ultimately led to resuming my love for writing, which, ultimately paved the way for my work in social media.

What kind of obstacles were you faced with during your move to L.A.?
I faced challenges as a new actor and learning to cope with traffic, and the culture. Getting from one end of town to another was difficult in and of itself– I moved here when there were NO smartphones, so, was getting around via Mapquest! Hah.

How has being in L.A. helped you achieve your dreams?
The dreams I am pursuing today are the polar opposite of what I came here to do. But that is what’s special–you never know where your journey will take you and what you will learn about yourself in the process. In my case, I learned I was not as passionate about acting as I had thought but instead needed to do work that was more purposeful and where I had more creative and intellectual control. 

What is/are your favorite thing(s) about living in L.A.?
Being from the East Coast originally, definitely the weather. I also appreciate the diversity and the food! 

What thing(s) did you do this week to bring you closer to where you want to be?
Ironically I did less work than I usually do, which, is exactly what I needed. Rest/self-care. I work 50-60 hours weekly, on average, but this week, on the heels of the New Year’s holiday, I opted to take it easy and work less. 

What is the most significant goal you had before you got here that you’ve achieved?
I saved over 10k by working two jobs before moving here at 19 years old in 2006, and also had landed the modeling/acting contract. So I arrived prepared. However– the first time I came, I was much less prepared. My gf and I initially became homeless when trying to live in Socal, which catapulted us right back to the East Coast where we then lived for nine months before coming back again. 

What is the most significant goal you had before you got here that you are still working toward?
Zero. All of the goals I am working on now are new. 

What do you love that you struggle to find time for?
Myself

What do you do for fun?
Unwind with good food and better company. I also enjoy attending concerts when I find the times and checking out new sights, galleries, and walking by the ocean.

What is something funny/crazy that has happened to you that you think would only happen in L.A.?
Oy. So much. Haha. I randomly became the COO of a fashion startup after walking in a runway show during L.A. Fashion Week for a time but then resigned after the founder gave me an edible spiked with hashish. Real story. 

How would you describe your style?
Edgy sophisticated 

Any words of wisdom for others out there who may be thinking about moving to L.A. to pursue their dreams?
Yes. Make sure your dreams are goal oriented and you have a plan in place as well as savings! 

Do you have any projects, shows, performances, or events coming up that we should know about?
I will be launching an online course soon and relaunch a rebranded version of my membership community for empowered women, Alpha2Alpha in March. In February I am speaking on a panel in NYC for Spring NYFW. 

Website / social media links?
www.alternewmedia.com @nadyarousseau (Instagram) @alternewmedia (Instagram)