Mia “Mighty” McCarthy has a one-of-a-kind eye for visual storytelling. An Academy freshman who loves to collaborate, McCarthy creates sculptures and shoots portraits as a photographer for IMG Models Worldwide. Always up for lending a hand, McCarthy gets behind the lens for any project that comes her way, whether it be for a photo op or a friend.


What does being at the Academy mean to you?

Being at the Iovine and Young Academy is like a sigh of relief! I'm so grateful to have found a place where I can explore all of my interests at once.

What is something in the world that you'd like to disrupt?

I'd like to disrupt the way magazine content is absorbed. During this pandemic, we've seen many industries pivot, while others have become completely obsolete. I think magazines fall into the latter of those two categories, so I'd like to take advantage of this time to come up with ways to reinvent that user experience.

1. Be authentic
2. Absorb as much knowledge as possible
3. Execute my ideas

Who is the most impressive entrepreneur alive today? Why?
I think Elon Musk is the most impressive entrepreneur alive today. The breadth of his businesses and projects is really admirable, and I love how he dedicates time to each one no matter how big or popular they are.

What are some things you want to know about your future senior self?

Did you end up making that blue coffee table you've been talking about? And is it awesome or what?

Describe one thing most people don’t know about you?

I need my daily nap! 

What is one thing your parents taught you that you’d like to share?
Everyone is doing the best they can.

What is a recent project you’ve worked on that you’re really proud of?

What are the essential things you always keep in your backpack?

A little audio recorder so I don't forget thoughts or ideas!

Favorite app, service or website?

Notion

If you could be best friends with one fictional character who would it be?

FRESH Encounters: Mia Mccarthy