Aya's father is Caucasian and her mother is Japanese. (edit) Aya studied ballet at Juilliard in New York. (edit) Aya starred in a monologue stage show called Pieces of Ass. (edit) Aya has produced and choreographed an indie film called Love Runs Red. (edit) Aya loves to do physical activities. Aside from dancing, Aya also swims, walks, and goes to the gym. (edit) Aya had to go through five auditions to land one of the main cast roles in Hawaii. (edit) While taping for Hawaii, Aya learned the hula dance. (edit) Aya's stunt double in the show Hawaii was Boni Yanagisawa. (edit) Aya stands five feet and nine inches tall. (edit) Aya previously had a job in New York as a cocktail waitress. (edit)

Aya: There are a lot less roles for Asian Americans but people make it through with hard work and focus. There is a shortage of good, qualified Asian American actors, but this can be good and bad. It's not like trying out for a role in L.A. that calls for blonde hair and blue eyes. (edit) Aya: It's our time to have a voice. I hope that more Asian Americans will get the opportunity to work and get jobs. I need the support of my people around me. (edit) Aya: I feel like I'm Cinderella and Hawaii is my glass slipper. (edit) Aya: (On her job as a cocktail waitress) Oh yes, I know what it's like to be surrounded by men. Drunk men spitting on you or asking the most insane questions like 'What's a pretty lady like you working in a place like this?' 'How about trying to earn a living?' I would tell them. (edit) Aya: (On being the only female on the main cast of Hawaii) We've had a few female guest stars, and when they come, I'm like, 'aloha, welcome' and beyond. It's like, I'm a woman, you're a woman. Thank God for estrogen! (edit) Aya: (On her ethnicity) Growing up, everyone is always asking you, 'Where are you from? Where did you get those eyes? What planet are you from?' I was conscious of it every day. (edit)