Did you have to learn to surf to be on Beyond the Break?

When my agent first told me that the audition was for a surfer, I immediately went out and got lessons. My family always used to vacation in Florida and I have always loved the beach and the water, so I am very comfortable in the ocean...but let's face it, I am from Ohio! Hahaha! We don't get many waves there! So I definitely had to start from scratch and learn. But I had some great teachers. Especially after I booked the role! They had this amazing waterman named Brian Keilauna who worked with us. He was amazing, and I learned a lot from working with him. Now I love surfing, and I still go out whenever I can!

You grew up in Cincinnati, OH. What was it like filming in Hawaii?

I fell in love with Hawaii. My family and I always had our vacations in Barbados, or Nassau or Florida, but I'd never been to Hawaii before filming the show! It was one of the most touching experiences I have ever had. The island of Oahu is so stunningly beautiful, and the energy of the place is so peaceful and spiritual. I loved the weather of course! But the thing that really sticks out in my mind about Hawaii is the people! The Aloha spirit was just so beautiful and evident everywhere I went! I made many great friends that I now consider family.

Are you anything like your character, Birdie?

I feel like I have some things in common with Birdie. Like, she is very determined and focused on her goals like me! And even though her family wasn't happy about her leaving school, kind of like my family wasn't happy about me leaving Cincinnati, we both worked hard to get jobs, make ends meet, and make our dreams a reality. I am new to acting just like Birdie is new to surfing. And we both are determined to work hard to get what we want! But sometimes Birdie can be a little neurotic, and has a hard time relaxing and going with the flow! I on the other hand am pretty chill and laid back. I definitely know how to relax!