What inspired you to want to pursue entertainment arts in general?
In 2012, I went to the La Pintoresca Teen Education Center for arts classes which involved digital photography, graphic design, and many others. It was there that I met a really supportive person who offered me a youth assistant job opportunity with the Armory Center for the Arts. I gladly accepted and am so glad that I made this decision. It changed my life in so many ways. It wasn’t until 2017 that my passion for entertainment arts deepened. LA County Library offered a mobile DJ lab where teens/young adults aged 15-21 came to the library to learn the art of DJing and how to start a career in the entertainment business industry. From my first session at the Compton library, I was so captivated by the teaching style of DJ Lynnee Denise that it prompted me to travel with the lab program to all 5 libraries: Compton, South Whittier, San Fernando, East LA, and Lancaster. I was so impressed that it motivated me to pursue an audio production degree with Full Sail University.
What motivated you into becoming a TV actor and wanting to go into an acting career?
I was featured in an NPR story in April 2021 in regard to my virtual adventures with libraries across the US. Oregon Library Association offered me the opportunity to publish my own article in their magazine. I was honored to write this article, which motivated and inspired me to pursue acting. Based on these 2 publicity experiences, I felt that I would make a great actor in film and television. Encouraged by many people in my life, I took the initiative and felt a calling toward the acting industry. I first started with group acting lessons at the Heller Approach and even had a private lesson with actor John Windsor Cunningham. However, it wasn’t until I enrolled in Limelight Acting Studio’s online 12 month acting academy and met Kristin Pitts that I felt alive and really enjoyed my life for the first time. Kristin’s coaching style is so fun and straightforward. She makes learning how to act and prepare for the acting world so smooth like a breeze. To this day, I have never been so grateful enough for Kristin and her studio. She changed me into a completely different person.
Where did you go to high school?
I was homeschooled since 7th grade and have never regretted the experience. My mom has a unique parenting style, and she supported my decision to experience education in a more unique environment. I also was able to experience a dual enrollment experience with Santa Barbara City College. I am so grateful for what my mom allowed me to accomplish, and I am honored to live my life in such amazing perspectives. Homeschooling allowed me to be my creative self and experience a wide variety of programming.
What do you enjoy the most in life?
I really enjoy reading books, getting to know others, and engaging in various programming with libraries across the country. I have never regretted this decision and am so glad that I took the initiative in connecting with the country through libraries. I also fell in love with Oregon through my virtual library experiences. I really hope to be able to make virtual contributions to this amazing state and visit in person soon. I love being a part of the book club at the Chetco Community Library in Brookings, having virtual friendships with my friends in Madras, and involving myself as a member of Oregon Library Association and Oregon Young Adult Network. I loved Oregon so much that I introduced Nuts on the Run products based in Clackamas to the customers of my family’s snack shop, Aji Ichiban. I am proud to be the company’s IT/Marketing manager, designing new business cards and implementing an online store.
What are your greatest achievements in life?
I would say that my greatest achievements are having had the opportunity to be homeschooled, participating in LA County Library’s mobile DJ Lab, which prompted me to pursue an audio production degree and an acting career, and serving as the IT/Marketing manager for Aji Ichiban.
Are there any words you want to say to people who are finding new careers?
Yes! Live out your desire and dream in a positive and encouraging environment. Don’t fear the world and pursue what you want most. Accept whatever challenges that might come into your path and always have the confidence in succeeding.