Meet Hayley McLaughlin from Linlithgow, Scotland who moved to LA a year and a half ago to pursue her career in acting. She has just received her Green Card and is proud to call LA her home. Recently, Hayley has been up in Portland, Oregon filming ‘The Librarians’ for TNT.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
The US has always fascinated me; the vastitude of the place. I lived in Salt Lake City, Utah, for a year when I was 14, and I always had an inkling that I would come back one day. The idea of living and working in the entertainment capital of the world has always been a dream for me. I have loved getting to know LA, all of the little quirks it has….oh, and sunshine!
What do you miss most from home?
Family… and a proper chippie… with the special brown chippie sauce…and Linlithgow Palace. But mostly family, I have a really close family so that is always tough. With technology these days it is so easy to keep in touch, and it makes it even more special when I do get to see them.
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since? If so, why?
Before I arrived, I had this vision of LA being like a catwalk; lots of beautiful people and chihuahua dogs in outfits. Even though it was so drastically different to what I had experienced at home or in London, it was nothing like this. There is far more to LA than chihuahuas and convertibles. I love that you can drive 40 minutes each way and be in the mountains, by the sea or in the desert. There is so much to explore, and every day I am here I appreciate it more and more. It takes time to see the real LA, I am so proud to call it home.
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus Linlithgow?
I guess for me it is work-related. I like that I am in a creatively competitive atmosphere; that excites me and drives me. I miss the people back in the UK so much, but I can make my living here doing what I love.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
Yes, if you haven’t been already then ‘The Lake Shrine Temple’ is truly magical. You forget you are in the middle of the city. If you ever feel alone or in need of a boost, this place just washes any doubt or worry away. It is amazing.
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
You need a car! I would suggest doing research, and planning as much as you can beforehand. Also be prepared with a great immigration lawyer if you are serious about making the move. Like anywhere it takes time to settle, so just be prepared to stick it out and make the commitment. It takes time, but it is so worthwhile.
Lastly, how can we find out more about you?
You can find out about me at IMDB or follow me on Twitter http://twitter.com/the_hayleymcl, or fhttp://www.facebook.com/HayleyMcLaughlinActress or http://instagram.com/wee_hayley_mclaughlin/.
Lots of our members join our group Brits in LA seeking out words of wisdom – what is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Always, ALWAYS take someone with you when buying a second hand car. Utilize great organizations such as Brits in LA. There are loads of people in the same boat as you, so just ask. The help is out there.
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