Today we’d like to introduce you to Tyler Ferreira, who has been working with us at Paddington Station for just over a year.
- Where did you grow up?
I grew up in sunny South Florida, in Ft. Lauderdale! I was there for twenty-six years and appreciated the opportunity to get a fresh start in Oregon when my family relocated out here a few years ago. - What is something about you that would surprise people?
I am currently writing a thesis on the implications of celebrity and idol culture that I will someday want to get published. I’m in school, but this has also been a ten-year-long passion project. I grew up listening to a lot of Japanese pop and there is this very interesting thing with para-social relationships involving that genre. A para-social relationship is when certain people believe they have more of a connection than they actually do with a celebrity because of how well they know their life. It’s always fascinated me and I’m really enjoying writing about it! - What is the best meal you ever had?
A couple years ago, I was in Tokyo to see this musical group called Perfume. The people who attended the concert with me went to a Denny’s there that had surprisingly great cuisine. It was really cool coming together with that huge group of people (pictured here), and it became our place that we came together as a community. I had a fantastic BLT, but the experience was more memorable because of the social interaction I had! - What is your favorite time of year?
I am a big winter person! Growing up in Florida, we don’t get to experience seasons much… it’s mostly hot, humid, raining, and awful in the winter. I’ve loved actually getting to experience the cold in Oregon. - Where is your favorite spot in Ashland?
When I’m not at work, you can mostly find me in Medford at Funagain Games Warehouse hanging out with that community. I play a lot of Magic the Gathering there and I really enjoy the social interactions I have. - What are some of your hobbies?
I go to a lot of concerts, I really enjoy writing, and I’m also a big fan of cars! I used to do a little bit of building when I was in high school and these days, I really enjoy driving my car. For me, it’s always about the journey and not the destination! - Tell me about your favorite pet you’ve ever had.
I grew up with a lot of pets, many cats and dogs, some guinea pigs and birds as well! I like to joke that Murfy the English Bulldog was the son that my mother always wished she had and loved more than me! My mom rescued him and he was super cute, very much a lap dog. I’d really like to adopt a Shiba Inu one day! - Who has been the most influential person in your life?
I know my mom will be reading this, so… I’m sorry mom! Utada Hikaru is the reason I am who I am today, because of her music style. She was born in New York and is bi-lingual and is what started my Japanese studies. She’s a singer and plays piano and several other instruments and is self-produced. She’s a very important voice in the community and is the last person on my bucket list to see! - What is a mantra you like to live by?
“Ask for forgiveness, not permission.” It’s about finding good opportunities! - What is your favorite thing about working at Paddington Station?
I’ve done a lot of corporate, high-stress jobs and I appreciate the difference in the environment here so much. I’ve worked here for about a year now and it’s so good having people I enjoy interacting with on a daily basis. I appreciate the way I’m treated here, always like family! - Anything else you’d like to add?
Shout-out to Stef for being like a second mom! I’ve been through a lot the last couple of years and she’s been such a rock for me.
