Meet EWAN CHUNG from Washington, DC who moved to LA 15 years ago to pursue acting.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
Yes, I wanted to focus on the film and TV industry.
What one thing do you miss from home?
The East Coast mindset! There’s a different way of connecting with people in general here. I find East Coasters (and Europeans for that matter) to be far more direct. Here you have to wind around a bit before you really know what people mean.
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus the UK?
As an American, I can’t speak for the UK. However, the east coast is quite different to the west, so it’s almost like another country culturally! I miss a sense of a longer history, architecture, lush greenery, autumn leaves, better public transport. And as much as I appreciate the warm weather here, I do miss my colder seasons. Halloween and Thanksgiving are flat out wrong in hot weather. Variety is always good in my book, and the seasons mark time better in my mind. I find that I can’t remember when events happened anymore because it’s all a same-same blur. Or maybe I’m just getting old.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
Ethnic grocery stores. It’s the best way to save money. Who needs Whole Foods or Ralphs when you can buy a week’s work of produce for under $15? Farmers’ markets also have good deals. Do some exploring in your neighborhood! It’s healthier and you really support the local economy.
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
Expect to (and don’t be afraid to) work hard during your first few years. L.A. seems easy breezy on the surface, but it’s a lot more serious and challenging than you think! Your circle of friends will also determine your experience here, but it may take a bit of time to establish that. Never did I expect to become friends with the Brits in L.A. crew, but it was such a random and pleasant surprise. Not only have they been wonderfully supportive, but they have also forced me to broaden my horizons. As a result of being involved in the annual Toscars, I actually learned how to edit film in Final Cut Pro! Thank you, BLA! xoxo
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