ON DUTY CITIZEN
HAILEY SERRANO
1) What are some “big kid” activities you love to do that keeps you youthful?
I’m definitely the biggest kid you’ll ever meet. I love staying active and playing sports, such as basketball. Once a month I play basketball with some incredible ladies part of Lady Ballerz, over at The City Basketball. That definitely keeps me active and running around. I’m away at school currently, but when I’m back home I love to gather a group of friends and go to Bounce. It’s pretty much an indoor play place filled with trampolines, obstacle courses, foam pits, and dodgeball games. I may have gone a bit too hard on some kids while playing dodgeball. I’m also an adrenaline junkie, so whenever the weather is good I like to take day trips over at Six Flags Great Adventure and ride roller coasters all day long, and play carnival games. -We LOVE having you at Lady Ballerzz. You have the best energy and always show up with a smile on your face, ready to ball:)
2) Beyond modeling, what are some cool projects, hobbies or side hustles you’re working on?
I’m currently working on some footage to get my YouTube vlog channel up and running. I pretty much don’t watch TV anymore, because I love to watch vloggers on YouTube. My channel isn’t up and running yet, but I plan on it within the next month or so. I have footage already, but it’s all a matter of editing now! I have a pretty crazy life, and go on a lot of adventures, so I think vlogging would be a pretty cool way to capture all of them.
3) Part of what’s so great about being a model is having a following on social media. What are some important messages you try to pass on to your followers?
I always try to stay positive and spread some positive words about confidence. Confidence was something I’ve always struggled with, so trying to uplift others and their confidence is a goal of mine while on social media. I think sometimes it’s good to put your insecurities out in the open in order to conquer them, so that is what I try to do when I post on my profile and Instagram story. I’ve gotten DMs and comments from people saying how my life is perfect, and asking how I’m able to be so confident all the time, when that is far from the truth. I try to share my struggles with my followers so that they can realize what they see on my Instagram is only the highlights of my life, and that there is much more going on in my life then what is shown by a picture. We all go through many struggles, and I think it can be good to express how our lives aren’t as “perfect” as our Instagram. -I couldn't agree more and I think as models it's important to show both sides. In the past, we didn't have these social media platforms to show our whole picture so I love that you're taking advantage of it and showing the sometimes 'not so perfect' other side!:)
4) You’re flying to a new city for a couple days of work. It’s a short trip- what are you packing?
My laptop for sure! I am always on it for homework, online classes and YouTube. Always have to pack a workout outfit because no matter where I am, I always like to get a good workout in. I’ll pack comfy clothes, shoes, and a water bottle with me to travel to each job. My phone and headphones are a must, too! I’m always listening to music on the go. Oh, and snacks! Lots and lots of snacks!
5) The fashion industry is quite wasteful, yet some companies and brands are trying to make a difference. Whether it’s a clean beauty brand or an ethical/sustainable company, do you have any favorites that stick out?
Lately I’ve been using face products from LUSH cosmetics. I have rosacea, so my skin is very sensitive and their products work great on my skin. What’s great about LUSH is that all of their products are handmade, they’re against animal testing, and a huge advocate for recycling. Every packaging container is made out of 100% recycled plastic. They also encourage you to recycle their products by offering a free item for every five empty containers returned. I am currently using the Aqua Marina cleanser, Breath of Fresh Air toner, and Rosy Cheeks facial mask. All of these products work great on my skin, and I definitely recommend them for others with rosacea or sensitive skin. -I love that they let you bring in their old containers to recycle! I find the makeup industry to be incredibly wasteful so this sounds like an awesome solution!
6) What are some of your go-to self-care rituals?
Working out and staying active is probably my biggest go-to self-care ritual. I try to workout at least five times a week. Even if I’m not in the mood for a big workout, I just make sure to run a mile on the treadmill. I absolutely love running and always try to set new goals for myself. My new goal is trying to run two miles in fifteen minutes. I’m almost there! I also go to kickboxing class at least once or twice a week. I love working out because it helps me release my stress and overall helps me feel great! I also make sure I’m eating right, while maintaining a balance for snacks and junk food. Junk food makes me happy, so I can never have it fully out of my life, but I make sure to eat it all in moderation. Another go-to is setting time aside for myself. I’m usually pretty busy balancing modeling, school, and my social life, but I always make sure to set aside a day, or few hours for me time. A typical “me time” routine consists of me laying in my bed in pajamas and watching YouTube videos, and getting up every so often for a meal or snack. Nothing wrong with a lazy day, or a few lazy hours every now and then!
