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Today, Ryan Ho, a high school senior at Webb High School, joins John Tulac on the Professionals of the Inland Empire podcast to discuss public transportation.
Ho was born in Hong Kong and moved to Claremont, California, to attend Webb School four years ago. Currently a senior, he enjoys traveling, especially on public transport. Ryan chose to study in the US, attracted by its perceived innovation and opportunities.
Ho’s advocacy for public transportation stems from his Hong Kong upbringing, where public transport (buses, minibuses, ferries, subways) is the primary mode of transport. Public transport offers advantages such as accessibility to everyone, deeper city views by immersing travelers among locals, and social interactions through meeting and conversing with locals.
Interactions on public transit vary; while common on Hong Kong ferries, they’re less so in London or New York where silence is typical. In Asia (Hong Kong, Japan, Korea), quieter commutes are normal due to cultural norms and high commuter volumes, unlike the US where conversations are more common. A traveler’s appearance or being a foreigner can also influence interactions.
Ho shares his experience using public transport in Claremont, where he attends boarding school without a car. Initially he traveled on Foothill Transit’s bus 188 to Montclair Place. He appreciates the Metrolink, particularly with the student adventure pass, preferring the commute from San Bernardino to Downtown for its traffic bypass and comfort, allowing time for relaxation or homework. Ryan has also used the Silver Streak, an express bus from Montclair Plaza to Los Angeles, recognizing its importance for affordable transport, especially for those without a Metrolink student pass. He recalls meeting a Spanish-speaking lady from El Salvador who relies on the Silver Streak to get to Los Angeles.
Ho goes on to share his ideas to improve public transport in the Inland Empire, addressing challenges like geographical spread affecting service frequency and the need for more reliable bus schedules. Enhancing real-time tracking systems and installing tracking devices at bus stations could aid those without phone access.
Ryan plans to study engineering at Stanford University, potentially focusing on improving public transportation.
Catch the full show on YouTube @ProfessionalsofInlandEmpire.
