As Snoop Dogg puts it, the West Coast is home to the girls he adores the most – sun-kissed, fit and full of energy.
The lyrics from the West Coast’s national anthem, “California Gurls” by Katy Perry, played on repeat in my head as I prepared to move to Los Angeles for college.

This post was updated July 28 at 4:57 p.m.
Second grade was the first time I experienced identity denial.
I don’t remember much about my teacher, Ms.

This post was updated Jan. 25 at 10:37 p.m.
UCLA hosted an event Jan. 17 aimed at highlighting its Living Learning Communities.
The LLC Palooza is an annual event showcasing the different student-led, identity-based housing communities on the Hill.