IN CONVERSATION WITH MIKA ABDALLA

interview by JANA LETONJA

Mika Abdalla is stepping into a major breakout moment with Prime Video’s Off Campus, the highly anticipated adaptation of Elle Kennedy’s bestselling novels, which premiered on 13th May. Known for her sharp wit, relatable charm, and effortless “cool girl” presence, Mika brings depth and humour to the role of Allie, anchoring a series already renewed for a second season. Following standout performances in Snack Shack and Sex Appeal, along with earlier work in Project Mc^2, she continues to build a dynamic career that blends comedy, authenticity, and modern coming-of-age storytelling.

What drew you to the role of Allie in Off Campus?

I see a lot of myself in Allie, but simultaneously, she is nothing like me. Her energy is at a pretty consistent 10/10. I like to say she’s me when I’m having the best day ever. I was really excited to explore a part of myself that doesn’t always show.

How would you describe Allie as a character, and what makes her relatable?

Allie’s a very complex character. She has a strong, high-energy front that masks a vulnerable and unsure inner emotional state. She’s the life of the party even when she’s completely torn up inside. I think lots of people can relate to the feeling of hiding the rawest parts of themselves and wanting to seem like they have it all together.

How does the series stay true to Off Campus while creating something new?

I think the series does a great job of honouring the characters Elle Kennedy created in the books while exposing them to circumstances we maybe haven’t seen them in before.

What can audiences expect from the tone and dynamic of the show?

This show really has everything. It’s deeply heartbreaking and deeply heartwarming. You’ll laugh, and you’ll most definitely cry. It feels like it encapsulates everything about young adult life.

What was it like stepping into a project that already had such a strong fanbase?

At times, it was daunting, but the fans have been so wonderful throughout this whole process. I’ve strangely found myself looking to book fans when trying to understand certain aspects of Allie, since they truly know and love these characters.

You’ve worked across film and television. How does this project compare?

This has been a very unique experience for me. We’ve had the most extensive press tour any of us has ever been on. It honestly makes me emotional. I’m so grateful.

Did your background in dance or equestrian sports influence your performance in any way?

There’s a thing in show jumping where, when you feel like things are getting out of control, you naturally want to tense up, panic, and lose your centre of balance. I constantly had to remind myself to sit down, breathe into my body, and press down in my heels. I’ve used that as a mental reminder to stay present with myself when I start to get frustrated with a scene or a performance I’m giving. Panic only makes things worse. All I can do is trust myself, trust the work, and keep myself centred. That’s when things always start to feel better.

What themes in Off Campus resonate most with you personally?

The friendship. I love Allie and Hannah’s relationship so much. They are absolutely each other’s chosen family.

How do you stay grounded while your career continues to gain momentum?

I’m honestly just so grateful for everything that’s happening. Getting into Season 2 is at the forefront of my mind, so I’m not spending too much time thinking about all the changes going on around me.

What excites you most about returning for Season 2?

Spending another summer in beautiful Vancouver with some of my dearest friends.

How would you define your personal style, both on and off screen?

It depends on the day, really. Whatever makes me feel good that day is what I wear. So much of my mindset relies on how I feel about what I’m wearing, so I really try to roll with whatever resonates with me day by day.

What’s next for you beyond Off Campus?

I’m really looking forward to writing more while we film this upcoming season. Outside of that, I’ve always loved independent filmmaking. I would love to have something gritty lined up for the fall.

TEAM CREDITS:

photography and makeup EMILY GRAY HIGGINS
styling KATE LI
hair SEIJI and ANDREW DYLAN