Advice

Through my involvement with theater and the Speech team, I have gotten to portray some really interesting characters on the stage; a love-struck damsel in forbidden love, a crazy women trying to escape reality, a pig, and a mother who has just lost her child. These characters, amongst others, really pushed my boundaries. I had to tap into emotions that were so strong and powerful that I would have a hard time doing these characters justice. As I would approach new territories, new ways of approaching the scene, I would tend to close up and just do things half-heartedly, scared that the path I chose was wrong. Some of my favorite mentors, directors, and coaches have told me time and time again, “stop holding back”. I like to think that it is true of most people, but as I approach “new territory”, on stage or off, my first instinct is take baby steps. Sometimes this caution is necessary, but other times it is more important just to go for it, try something new, and push yourself to the limits. These three words helped me conquer (to the best of my ability) multiple roles I will never forget and help me lead my life in a more dynamic fashion.