McKenna Shaffer

What is your job and its responsibilities?
My full time job is an admissions counselor at a beauty school in the Third Ward. I recruit and guide prospective students through the enrollment process.

I also work as a freelance photographer, which is my passion. I do wedding, portrait and event photography. I’ve been photographing NEWaukee’s amazing events for two years now.

What strikes you as the most unique thing about Milwaukee?
The entire city is a hidden gem, but all we are known for around the state and country is beer and Summerfest. While I definitely enjoy both of those things, there are so many other amazing events, places and sights to experience here. Once more people discover this, Milwaukeean’s will be able to say, “I liked Milwaukee before it was cool.”

Do you see this as a good city for young people?
Milwaukee is a great place for young people– it’s a large city with a small town feel. The city offers so many opportunities to make professional connections and put your name out there, especially for artists and start-ups. In addition, there’s great nightlife, festivals and a number of art galleries.

What neighborhood do you live in and what do you like about it?
I live in the Brady St. neighborhood and I absolutely love it! Everyone is extremely friendly and there are so many great restaurants, bars and stores, all within walking distance.

Who is your favorite Milwaukee personality?
My favorite Milwaukee personality has to be the Milverine. Nothing gets you pumped to wait for the bus like the possibility of seeing the elusive Milverine strolling around the Third Ward!

What have you seen in other cities that you’d like to see in Milwaukee?
I love Chicago’s lakefront. I think they do a great job utilizing their lakefront parks in the summertime. Their lakefront is very accessible and pedestrian friendly. The public art they have there is great. Chicago also has a nice bike share program.

I’m excited about the growth of Milwaukee’s new bike share and hope it will be very successful. I would like to see Milwaukee’s lakefront area be more pedestrian and bike friendly. The walking and biking trails along the lake are great, but getting to them is a like playing Frogger across Lincoln Memorial Drive, even in the crosswalks. A bit more safety and accessibility would definitely be an improvement everyone could enjoy.