Alissa is a Senior in the Class of 2025 at Louisville High School, and I have had the privilege of working with her as a LEP Ambassador this year. Her involvement in my ambassador program has been an absolute delight, and I have appreciated her enthusiasm and creativity throughout the process. Alissa’s senior portrait journey was filled with style, personality, and beautiful locations—truly capturing the essence of who she is.
Creative Studio Portraits in Early Spring
Our first session together was a studio session in early spring. Alissa brought an array of fabulous outfits that allowed us to experiment with different looks and vibes. From a trendy sequined top paired with cowboy boots to a glittery prom gown, her style shone through in every shot. We explored creative portrait setups, resulting in some truly unique images that highlighted her fun and fashionable side.
In May, we held a feature session in Louisville, visiting some of the town’s most iconic spots. We spent time in Umbrella Alley, Unhitched Brewery, and Virgil's Coffee House & Creamery. Each location offered a unique backdrop that perfectly complemented Alissa’s carefully chosen outfits. Her sense of style paired seamlessly with the character of each venue, making this session both fun and memorable.
Alissa’s main senior portrait session took place in early July. We began in downtown Canton, where her fun and vibrant style brought incredible energy to the portraits. We explored creative settings, including a parking garage, the beautiful courthouse, the median of the street with its striking fountain, and some of the unique backdrops that downtown Canton has to offer. Alissa’s confidence and personality were evident in every image.
After downtown Canton, we moved to the Canton Garden Center, where the natural beauty of the flowers added a fresh and colorful dimension to her portraits. One of her favorite spots was in front of a bed of gorgeous purple flowers, where we created some truly standout images.
Alissa is as accomplished as she is stylish. She’s involved in high school soccer, teaches Sunday school, and mentors for the Legacy Project of Stark County. Her hobbies include working out, and her friends describe her as hardworking, committed, passionate, and considerate. It’s easy to see why she’s so admired.
Alissa’s favorites give us even more insight into her vibrant personality. Her favorite vacation spot is Utah, her favorite singer is Zach Bryan, and she loves country music. She’s a fan of Condado Tacos and enjoys shopping at Aerie. These details add even more depth to the story of who she is as a senior.
Alissa looks up to her parents, who inspire her with their care for others and their dedication to hard work. She credits them with teaching her to follow her dreams and has been inspired by them to pursue a career in real estate. Alissa plans to attend Kent State University, where she will major in Political Science and minor in Pre-Law, with plans to eventually become a real estate attorney. She also looks forward to getting her real estate license after high school. Long term, Alissa dreams of starting a family and inspiring her children just as her parents have inspired her.
Alissa shared what made her senior portrait sessions so special:
“My most favorite images of my senior session were at the Canton Garden Center, specifically the ones of me laying in front of the beautiful purple flowers behind me. I also couldn’t get over all my images in the parking garage! Laura was able to create such unique and gorgeous images that not only I loved, but they also made me feel so confident.”
“I loved how easygoing and stress-free the whole process was. The outfit and location changes were super quick and easy! I love how we had planned out the majority of our session before we even got there.”
Her advice for other seniors?
“Laura is so fun to work with and will do anything for you to make you feel comfortable and confident! Don’t be scared to step out of your comfort zone. She is always open to any ideas you may have, so don’t be scared to share them.”
Alissa, thank you for trusting me with your senior portrait experience and for being such a wonderful LEP Ambassador. Your creativity, confidence, and bright personality made every session a joy. I am so excited to see the amazing things you will accomplish in the future. Kent State and Akron are lucky to have you, and I cannot wait to see you achieve your dreams!