The golden gate bridge

Not So Golden

Struggles Facing California’s Young Adults

There are lots of reasons to love the Golden State — from its stunning beaches and picturesque mountains to its entrepreneurial spirit, trailblazing laws and incredible diversity.

But at what cost?

For many young adults, living in the country’s most expensive state is not easy. California’s economy may be booming, but college students are facing rising tuition and struggling to find affordable housing. Teen suicide rates are up and lack of employment opportunities in rural areas like Merced are making it hard for some to earn a decent living.

“Not So Golden” offers a glimpse into how many California young adults are making it work.

This California Youth Media Network project is a collaboration between Boyle Heights Beat, The kNOw, We’Ced and YR Media. The work was produced by a team of young journalists from Fresno, Los Angeles, Merced and Oakland.

Credits

“Not So Golden” is a collaboration between Boyle Heights Beat, The kNOw, We’Ced and YR Media.

Reporters

Essayist

  • Alex (First name only for the contributor’s privacy)

Additional reporting by

  • Zyanna Maynard (The kNOw)

  • James Reddick, Savannah Robinson, Shoka Shafiee and Etta Washburn (YR Media)

Editors

Illustrators

  • Ruben Diaz, Ulonie Garza and Maria Torres (The kNOw)

Graphic Designer

Photographers

Video Producers

  • Lakshmi Sarah and Deana Mitchell (YR Media)

Statewide Production

Website Design/Development

  • Radamés Ajna, Devin Glover and Marjerrie Masicat (YR Media)

Project Senior Producer

Executive Producer