Meet CREW Pittsburgh Member, Alyssa Falarski, Totum Realty Advisors!

What are your interests and/or hobbies outside of work?  

I have two active little boys who take up the bulk of my energy outside of the office. My family is very close, so we spend a lot of time together on the weekends. I really love to travel both in the US and internationally and hope to do more of this now that the pandemic has calmed down. I am also a huge fan of live events and theater productions, and I love to eat out at new restaurants. 

What is the best professional and/or personal advice you have received and/or given?  

I would not be where I am today if it weren’t for the beauty of Networking. This is something that is well known throughout this industry already, but it always rings true. No matter what career path you’re on, it will always be important to have a solid, diverse network, and to continue to grow that network, no matter what position you’re in. We are in a people-focused business.  My first big break in my career came because I was on vacation with my family in the Grand Canyon after I graduated college, and I mentioned to everyone I met that I wanted to work in non-fiction television. Well, wouldn’t you know it, someone I was speaking with knew the CEO of National Geographic Channel and connected me. You never know where your next opportunity will come from. Take chances, go to events, and learn from as many people as you can. And equally important, nurture your current relationships with others. Surround yourself with people who inspire and encourage you, and those whom you can support in the future.

Where have you traveled?  Where do you wish to travel?  

I have been to over 30 countries, and hope to make it to 30 more in the next decade. When I was in college, I spent a semester abroad, so that’s where the bulk of my traveling took place (across much of Europe). But after I graduated, I still made it out of the country a handful of times. A few of my favorite places were Scotland, Italy, Greece, and Israel. I’ve been to Israel 3 times and hope to go back next December. My next trip will hopefully take me back to South America! But no plans have been made yet…