By Ileana Llorens

Born on the outskirts of Los Angeles, Erick Galindo finds the relationship between rock stars and journalists captivating. Both careers are tantalizing, but, more important, both have an influence on the world.

Rock stars leave their music for generations to enjoy; journalists “are the people that tell people what happens,” Galindo said. The 25-year-old aspiring journalist and novelist from Cerritos College sees journalism not as a job but as an opportunity to report history. Writing for music magazines such as 8.5 Magazine, Galindo creatively combines his love for letters and lyrics in hopes of someday working as a columnist at Rolling Stone magazine.

Freckled cheeks and wavy red hair mask Galindo’s Mexican background. The second of five children, Galindo said he felt the struggles of his immigrant parents. While others played with toy tools, Galindo and his four siblings played with real tools. It wasn’t until he smashed his finger with a hammer that he learned the difference. It was his innocent curiosity, however, that led him to journalism.

“When I was a little kid, they told me I should be a reporter because I always asked so many questions,” he said.

When Galindo’s not grilling local musicians, he’s at the movies. His favorite film? “Casablanca.” “I guess I’m just a sappy guy,” Galindo confessed. He admires Humphrey Bogart’s acting and hopes to mirror Bogart’s success — but in journalism. On a trip to the Kodak Theatre, Galindo discovered he fit into Bogart’s footprints. It’s a sign he will be successful, he said proudly.