I am a high school teacher born, raised, and never (permanently) leaving Los Angeles. I teach English to non-native speakers as well as psychology. I have taught international students since I was in high school myself, and I love that language teaching to non-native speakers allows me to also learn so much from my students about their cultures and the world!

From 2016 to 2017, I taught English at a high school in South Korea, specifically on the island of Jeju. It was one of my greatest experiences of my life. I was lucky to be placed in one of the most stunning parts of the country with a host family that encouraged me to explore. While in Korea, I traveled throughout the peninsula, and during my winter break, I made trips to Taiwan and Hong Kong. It was through this experience that I realized my love of traveling solo and having the opportunity to be completely immersed in something new.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I originally joined Couchsurfing when I was making solo travel plans through Taiwan and Hong Kong while living in South Korea. I met some great people and lifelong friends!

I'm traveling to Europe (Switzerland, Germany, Italy, and France) for the month of July this year, and I'd love to make some more friends and see the best local sights (and eat the best local eats). I've never been to Europe before and am going with an alarming lack of preparation, so I am totally open to (begging for?) local guidance.

While in LA, I'd love the opportunity to share my favorite places and foods in my best city on the planet (and my hometown). Hit me up if you need a tour guide!

Interests

• writing
• reading
• eating
• hiphop
• k-pop

Music, Movies, and Books

Book: Murakami is my man, and Norwegian Wood is my favorite book of his by far. I currently have a stack of about 25 unread books in my room (and countless more that I've already read), so let me know if you'd like to exchange.
Music: I like a little bit of everything, honestly. Lately, I've been listening to a lot of Lizzo and Rex Orange Country. I have been and will always be a huge fan of K-pop (BTS, Red Velvet, TWICE) and Korean hip hop (Giriboy, Beenzino, Changmo, Geeks). Other favorites include Frank Ocean, Elton John, Marina and the Diamonds, and Stevie Wonder.
Movies: My absolute favorite film is Her, and Interstellar is a close second. I love sci-fi that feels real or imminently possible. Other films I've seen a million times include My Own Private Idaho, 500 Days of Summer, and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I ran a half marathon in Jeju for the first time in my life and placed third in my category!

What I Can Share with Hosts

I LOVE to cook and bake. If you're into food as well, the opportunity to cook together would be incredible. At least, let's share a meal!

I am willing to eat anything and try new things, so if you have been wanting to go on adventure, we can go together!

I will share the sincerest, warmest gratitude and joy for hosting me so generously. I want to spend my time with you wholeheartedly and learn about your life that you're so generously sharing with me. I am eager to hear your stories.

Countries I’ve Visited

Brazil, Hong Kong, South Korea, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates

Countries I’ve Lived In

South Korea, United States