What is your middle name? Does it carry any special meaning/significance?

My middle name is Jean. I was named after my aunt, my father’s sister. No it has no significance except to bridge my first and last names.

Describe a phase in life that was difficult to say goodbye to.

The phase of my life that was difficult to say goodbye to was my first year of college at Holy Names in Oakland, California. Not only was it my first time living on my own it was also my first taste of life in Northern California.

Are you patriotic? What does being patriotic mean to you?

I’m very patriotic because I believe I’m a product of my country and positive representation of its output and issues. Overall I’m very proud of being an American and try to live up to its promise and goals.

Do you need a break? From what?

I need a break from working three jobs or at least a reduction where I only work at the job I truly love, fashion Journalism.

Something on your “to-do list” that never gets done.

The thing on my “to-do list” that never gets done is to finish organizing.

If you started a sports team, what would the colors and mascot be?

If I started a sports team my colors would be orange and white and my mascot would be a cat in homage to my cat Zombie.

Have you ever performed on stage or given a speech?

Yes I’ve tap danced on stage quite a few times and I’ve performed with the students I work with through LAUSD in their shows. The last time I performed was before the Christmas break where we sang Feliz Navidad.

You get to build your perfect space for reading and writing. What’s it like?

My perfect space for reading and writing would be a cozy book nook just big enough for Zombie, my cat, and I.

When are you most happy?

I’m most happy when I’m chillaxin with my cat Zombie reading, watching tv, or taking a nap.

What was the last thing you did for play or fun?

The last thing I did for fun was go to see the film “Mufasa: The Lion King” at the Rave Theater.

List your top 5 grocery store items.

My top five grocery store items are juice, tea, bread, sugar, and crackers.

Is your life today what you pictured a year ago?

No my life today definitely isn’t what I pictured a year ago. In some ways it’s better and in some ways it’s worse. I’m still working too much and too hard in a day job, Special Ed, that’s becoming increasingly challenging and writing my first book amongst this scenario. Fortunately, I’m a lot stronger and smarter after experiencing so much since 2023 but my hope is 2025 will offer more mental and creative opportunities where I can relax more and enjoy life at a leisurely pace without so much stress.