-Did you always know that you wanted to be in acting? When did you start?

Around seven years old while studying rhythmic gymnastics my mom noticed I enjoyed performing more than competing. I would do a perfect routine with a gymnasium full of people watching and didn't concern myself with perfection while in class without an audience. So no more gymnastics for me. I was signed to Ford models when I was very young and did a lot of commercial work in Orlando for Bealls Department stores while in elementary school. You have an incredible amount of acting projects going on. 

-How do you balance it all (in addition to being a singer as well)?

As a full-time college student, an actress, and a musician, balance is not necessarily the goal at this point. I'm thankful for the opportunities that are coming my way and am embracing them all with the help of a supportive family and a stress-relieving cat. You recently released your single, "Gold,"How exciting was that? Do you write your own music as well? Are you currently working on the album? I write all of my own songs and have been recording them for many years. Gold was the first of many original songs that makes its way into the public's ears. So yes, my first officially released song and very exciting. I'm obsessed with the cover artwork my mom created for the song. There will be many more songs in the near future for my community. Stay tuned, yes an album is in the works. 

-How would you describe your music?

Sunday afternoon in a convertible with the top down cruising the PCH while watching the sunset. 

-What are some of the venues people can see you perform around LA?

I perform original songs solo and with backing bands at venues like the Whisky Go Go, House of Blues, Roxy, The Hotel Cafe, and the State Social House. Would you say you are working on music or acting more? Both equally. The movie Summertime Dropouts gave me the opportunity to incorporate both acting and music equally. In Summertime Dropouts my character Lucy is the lead guitarist in a girl's pop punk band. The producer wanted to hire actors that are also real musicians so we could record the soundtrack and play as a real band to promote the film. It was the dream job to be able to both acting and music on set. One day on set during a meal break the six leads started singing and writing songs together. I'm looking forward to promoting this film soon.

-How did you like playing Lucy in "Summertime Dropouts?"

Lucy and I have a different style and taste in music. Playing her in the movie allowed me to really dive into the history of the angsty side of music with both my listening and playing. After meeting Simple Plan and listening to their music, both Lucy and I can be considered fans. How would you describe Lucy? Lucy is the most chill go-with-the-flow person you will ever meet. She is equal parts weird and quirky while still maintaining a sense of inherent cool. We also share a love of music and ice cream.

-How did you like playing Georgia Dean in “Nasty Habits”?

I connected with Georgia Dean because of a shared interest in songwriting and a desire to pursue a music career in Los Angeles. She was fun and sweet with just enough edge to remain mysterious and interesting. She was so goal driven but didn't want to wait or bother her mother with the financial issues so she headed out on her own.

-What does each bring to you creatively?

Music is therapy for me. Sometimes it shows me things that I didn't know about myself until I actually finish the song. Acting is more cathartic and fun because I get to put a piece of myself in every character. I feel an obligation to portray the characters accurately, even if they are not necessarily based on real people. 

I know you are a very popular influencer for some amazing brands. Can you expand? 

I like to genuinely believe in a brand's products and mission statement. I think of it as sharing style and beauty secrets with my best friends. I would never want to let them down! I like wearing Speechless Dresses and representing their brand because the dresses are affordable, stylish and easy to wear. Their company is always giving back to the community. I just recently helped with a prom dress give-a-way for an underserved demographic at Girls Inc. of OC. I have also worked with STS Blues, Peace Tea, Bare Minerals, Dermablend Pro which the last two I use every day in my makeup routine! I also have a tiny boutique on the Kollectin app. Check it out using code: SerenaLaurel. You can shop or flaunt and have fun with it. It is important for me to bring my community items that I actually like to use and wear. 

Tell us about your YouTube series "Record Rant?" 

Record Rant is a light-hearted honest chat about music and album review show. It is currently on a hiatus...BUT I am working on a second season. Because I self direct, produce, and edit Record Rant, it is hard to find the time to edit. I will keep adding episodes because I like researching and talking about music with my friends.