As a San Diego and Tijuana native, Los Angeles was always a close drive for me. Ever since I was a child, my family would enjoy trips to downtown L.A., the Getty Museum and other tourist attractions. I never really envisioned myself moving here until the summer of my senior year of high school. Ever since my freshman year, I was dead-set on moving to New York City. It was my dream to study theatrical production at NYU. Well, I soon realized that things don’t always go as planned. I did not get accepted and as graduation came closer, I began to panic and randomly applied to some schools in L.A. Little did I know I would end up getting accepted to a school in L.A. and move here! As it turns out, it was the best decision I ever could have made.

I am now majoring in television and film studies in the absolute best city for entertainment, and I am only a few hours away from home. What more could I ask for? This city is the epitome of the American Dream. It is absolutely booming with opportunity and incredible experiences. On every corner, there is some type of art, whether it be a mural, a live show or giant skyscrapers. It reminds me of San Diego, but with much more activity and people. I love how fast-paced this city is because very day seems like a blank canvas for me to fill. In the few months of living here, I have managed to live on my own, make friends, master the art of taking public transportation, join three clubs, win two school essay contests, come out in a music video, start a Youtube channel and attend two major awards shows among other things—it has been surreal. Something about being in this city automatically pulls me out of my shell. I no longer hold back when it comes to approaching others, in fact, my days consist of meeting and talking to interesting people. Everyone has a story tell.

As of now, I do not know exactly in which direction Los Angeles will take me, but I am willing to get lost in the process. Inspiration and motivation come from all places, especially in the City of Angels. My advice to all is to go out into the city and explore places that you have never been to and revisit that places that you have been to. Take a notebook with you, and carry your camera while you’re at it! You might fall in love with a new hobby or location and get inspired. It may seem scary at first to get out of your comfort zone and see what the world around you has to offer, but it is never too late to start and gain fulfillment knowing that you gave the city a chance! Take it from someone who used to have panic attacks, extreme anxiety and would spend entire days cooped up in libraries avoiding friends. Anything is possible in this amazing city!