What it’s like living on the East Coast as a Cali girl

Was Katy Perry right when she said California girls really have more fun? If you had asked me that before my three month stint in Washington D.C. I would not have had to think twice.

As a native Californian I would have been quick to proclaim West as best, but now my loyalty to the sunshine state is experiencing some serious issues.

Now before I’m accused of any betrayal you must understand how the differences between the two coasts are the sources of my divided allegiance.

The weather

I’ll start with the obvious: the weather. On the west coast, specifically, Santa Barbara we are fortunate enough to experience temperate weather year-around meaning that shorts and light sweaters can get us through the chilliest days, but think twice about your outfit on the east coast.

There,  with temperatures reaching highs of a grand 45 degrees in November you will have to make sure to bundle up or risk a bout of pneumonia, therefore, that light sweater you usually throw on will have to be worn under a coat, a scarf, and accessorized with some gloves for maximum protection. Change in weather resulting in your change of wardrobe is bound to happen, which brings me to my next point.

Pretty much every day in IV

The fashion

People on the East Coast, especially in D.C. tend to dress more conservatively than Californians. Think preppy, for guys this means boat shoes, khakis, and collared sweaters. Whereas for the ladies, knee-high riding boots, pea coats, and padded vests reign supreme. This may be a sudden change in your closet if you are a true Californian whose style can be described as casual comfort. So ditch the Rainbows, boho-chic LF rompers, and patterned Hawaiian shirts for your cross-country move. But embrace the change, donning a more polished look never hurt anyone! Point for the East Coast in my book.

The DC life

Now, I must say that UCDC sets you up to love the East Coast by placing your new D.C. home in the heart of it all. The UCDC building is centrally located downtown and is conveniently located about two blocks from Connecticut Avenue and Dupont Circle. Think of it as your new D.P. where instead of open house parties and cheap beer you have some the best bars, nightclubs, and lounges at your disposal.

The nightlife is alive and well with hip neighborhoods like Adams Morgan and the U-Street Corridor a short Uber ride away from an action-packed night (or morning if you stay out late enough). While this is all great, I must say it was us Californians that were the life of the party at these spots.

The people

There is a certain quality that makes someone from California stand out from the rest. It may be because we soak up more sun, have the ocean minutes away from our doorstep, or are reaping the benefits of our easy access to the best avocados that makes us shine in a different light and somewhat brighter.

Individuals on the East Coast shine, brightly too! However, when compared to Californians they are more reserved, more likely to discuss work than play, less inclined to engage in small talk, and they will most definitely be on the go. Leading me to find comfort and a newfound appreciation for my fellow West Coasters who take life slower, talk more freely, make friends anywhere and everywhere, and live life with less inhibitions. Now, while the East Coast holds a piece of my part it is those Californians and the West Coast that make my heart feel whole. So to answer that first question, yes, the west coast truly is the best coast.