Where do you live? In Oakland.
Why there? I was raised in the Bay Area, and I continue to live here because I feel such a strong sense of community. The scene is so diverse, and rich in culture. The people here are so creative, and there’s a melting pot of ideas and art. I’ve found my people in the Bay Area, and that’s what truly made it my home.
Who or what is your greatest California love? It’s got to be all the beaches along San Francisco. I love taking night walks on the sand with my friends. I also love the trails and views on Mount Tamalpais.
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? The biggest I’ve heard is that everyone surfs and goes to the beach 24/7. I can disprove this because I’ve never surfed in my life, and I don’t know anyone in the bay that surfs.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? I’d say the stereotype that holds most true is that there’s a “California accent.” There definitely are different accents depending on where in the state you are, and there’s definitely a “Bay Area accent.” We use certain words and phrases a lot more than other people. We do say “hella.”
What is your favorite Golden State splurge? Universal Studios Hollywood, for sure.
Time for a road trip—where are you going? I’d go to Lake Tahoe and enjoy a whole day skiing or snowboarding. Another option would be a day trip to Santa Cruz to enjoy the beach and boardwalk.
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? Our Chinese food is so amazing. There are so many great authentic Chinese restaurants around California, but my go-tos are all in Oakland’s Chinatown. Specifically Spices 3 辣妹子 and Shandong.
What is your favorite way to play in California? On a typical day, I love just going to a park and playing tennis with my siblings. We have so many parks in California and my favorites always have tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts for the community to use.
Where would you go for the ultimate shopping spree in California? My shopping sprees usually happen on Haight Street in San Francisco. The shops are so cute and endless. The store I visit the most is called 2nd Street.
Best California song? There’s this song by Beabadoobee called “California,” so I would say that one just because it’s in the title. And because it’s a sensational song.
How would your California dream day unfold? My perfect day would start with first waking up before sunrise and driving with friends to the Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point to watch the sunrise.
Then we would go to a café none of us have been to and eat some breakfast. Maybe spend some time in the botanical garden and the Japanese Tea Garden. We would then drive back over the bridge and chill at home for a bit.
In the afternoon we’d go on a hike in the Oakland Redwoods and maybe plan a photo shoot. Lastly, we’d end the day with a movie at the Piedmont Theatre.