What was your first job as a journalist?
After years on the advertising side of media, I was able to start writing as a freelance writer for StyleCaster at my current company.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
No! I want to though.
How is social media changing news?
My first journalism class was in Twitter - it's both bettering and worsening the speed and accuracy of news.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Joan Didion
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Being a journalist is a responsibility to deliver accurate news or fun, authentic stories that speak to the audience.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
BTS it's okay to rest
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Please email me :)
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Google Suite, Wordpress and tons of proofreading!
What's your favorite social network?
Instagram, TikTok
Who do you wish followed you?
Jia Tolentino - she's definitely been an inspiration as a fellow AAPI female writer.
Why did you become a journalist?
I enjoy uplifting up-and-coming voices and artists and love using my own to help and highlight others.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I worked at my high school newspaper as a writer and editor. I loved it so much that I ended up helping the photographers as well!
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I'm proud of all my work, but definitely my piece on helping the AAPI community and its mass shootings helped heal me and my people.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Put the writing and passion first before yourself and trust the process. Time takes time and you'll get to be the journalist you envisioned
When's the best time to pitch you?
Anytime on a weekday!
What's the best pitch you ever got?
A story on digital fashion and designers pivoting to online designs for Gen Z.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
So far, none. I truly enjoy all the pitches I've seen so far, even if not all of them make it live.
What's your favorite drink?
I love an iced oat milk latte any time of day.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Probably on a walk with my two dogs or at the pilates studio
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I love indulging in Refinery29, particularly their Money Diaries!
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
Lifestyle and Culture is fun to write about but it also requires more research than expected.
