Christina grew up in an Oakland, in a neighborhood where, as she says, "You need to watch your back" At an early age, her father left the family, which instigated a long line of emotional and financial issues. When her brother had an unexpected child a few years later, Christina took a year off of school to help the family pay their rent and grocery bills.Proudest Moment: The time she helped plate for the banquets, and when she got to prepare the Boulevards, the restaurant's signature appetizers. Plans to start working, using her new cooking skills to look for restaurant jobs! She wants to help out her mom and become more independent.