Lana Schissel

Hey folks! My name is Lana Schissel and I'm a Manhattan native, currently residing in Miami where i am finishing up a Masters in Latin American Studies. My thesis focuses on the structural preparations of the city of Rio de Janeiro as they transform to host the Olympics in 2016. My thesis focuses on civic participation, mega-events, urban government theory, and social networking in the context of Brazil. At current, I am consumed with this 5-year project, which is equally exciting as it is terrifying. I have lived in Miami for the last four years, but I am an avid traveler and hope to live outside the United States for a large part of my life. I am an avid cyclist and practice yoga with regularity and reverence. I have a deep love for creative visual arts, including fashion, even though I took a year long anti-consumer vow- it's easier than it sounds! I love food and good cooking, but above all I appreciate creativity. and I love TOP CHEF. I was raised in Manhattan and that defines a large part of who I am. My thesis work has exposed to me to aspects of law, urban planning, urban policy, architecture: all of which I would like for the future ME to pursue. I don't know if I'll end up Manhattan, but I know that I will always be looking for a metropolis that does what seemingly New York can do. I could see myself working in consulting, hospitality, or as a restaurateur, but I would be satisfied with any field that allow my creative, idea-driven personality to shine.