Preferred pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Major/Concentrations: BFA Theatre Arts, stage management concentration
Hometown: Mansfield, MA
What made you choose Salem State, and what is the one thing you think a prospective student should know about our campus community?
Like many people who graduated high school in 2020, I took a chance when selecting what college to attend. With the pandemic in full swing, I was worried about what Salem State would be like to attend in the future. Although I was initially nervous, I am glad I made the choice. Salem State's Theatre community is what pulled me in at first- seeing an affordable, local, and smaller-sized campus with such a successful and vibrant arts community inspired me to pursue my degree here.
For prospective SSU students: Know that your college experience is exactly what you make it. Say yes to everything. Volunteer. Take that survey. Ask questions, observe, and advocate for what you need. Going to college is one of the greatest challenges you can choose to take on- taking the time to immerse yourself in SSU's resources and community (and not to mention the perks of living in Salem!) makes this journey a little easier, and a lot more fun.
What have you enjoyed most about your experience living on campus?
I have greatly enjoyed my experience working as an RA for the past three years here at SSU. As someone who enjoys leadership roles and engaging with others in my community, being an RA and living on campus has allowed me to expand my connections with people I wouldn't normally be surrounded by as an Arts major. I also really love living so close to my friends! It's like a sleepover for four years straight. There is something so special about spending quality time with other people your age who can share in the joy and hardship that is college and growing up.
What are you involved in on campus? (Student groups, clubs, organizations, jobs, internships, honors, or athletic affiliations)
Along with being the senior resident assistant (RA) of Atlantic Hall for the past three years, I am a member of the Commonwealth Honors Program and the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society. I have also previously served as president of a student organization (The Student Theatre Ensemble) for two years. I have also worked events on and off for the Center for Creative and Performing Arts and have volunteered for Theatre Arts Open houses.
Can you describe the educational value and affordability you’ve experienced at Salem State University? How has the university supported your academic journey regarding quality and accessibility?
Attending an affordable university provides me with a level of security in my future that allows me to pursue my passions and creative endeavors. SSU has amazed me with its ability to provide resources to students who are willing to advocate for their needs and provide experience that is crucial to cultivating and sustaining a successful future for each student. As a theatre student, I have learned about and worked with technology and other resources that mirror experiences I have had in the professional industry.
Could you discuss the relationships you’ve developed with faculty members at Salem State and how these relationships have influenced your learning and personal growth?
The faculty has poured out an abundance of kindness, support, and hard work over my time here at SSU. As a very self-driven student, the support I value from faculty is somebody who can get at my level and understand the challenges I am facing or any confusion I am having in the classroom and beyond. The SSU theatre department's faculty not only care about the production and quality of productions we produce but also the well-being and quality of the students' educational experience. Each faculty member makes it clear that their greatest importance is providing the student with a "toolbox" of skills to not only use in the classroom or rehearsal room but also provide the skills necessary to launch into a lifetime of working in theatre.
Salem State emphasizes hands-on learning experiences. Can you share any memorable experiences where you’ve applied classroom knowledge in real-world settings through projects?
Theatre is all about creation. Some of my fondest memories and most valuable learning experiences are the times I've been able to sit at the sewing machine, hang out in the prop shop, build scenery, and paint beautiful designs for scenery while being hoisted 20+ feet in the air. None of these skills are needed in my field, but as a theatre artist, I've learned that to "speak the language" of the people you work with, you sometimes have to learn how to do what they do.
What have you accomplished during your time at Salem that you are most proud of?
I am most proud of my accomplishments and recognitions from the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival, a regional and national-level theatre competition the theatre department participates in every year. After being selected as the Region 1 finalist last year, the connections I made and the recognitions I received at the national level have provided a jumpstart to my professional career.
In what ways has Salem State demonstrated its commitment to your success, both academically and personally? Can you share any specific instances where the university has gone above and beyond to support you?
There is nothing that shows a university’s commitment to your success more than supportive staff/faculty. Having professors come to every show, taking time out of their busy schedules to meet with you and review material, or even to grab a cup of coffee shows that you are not just a product of the university but a valued individual ready to create change in their professions.
As you near graduation, how do you feel Salem State has prepared you for your future career? What resources or opportunities have been particularly valuable in this regard?
I think the most valuable way SSU has prepared me for my future is by encouraging me to feel confident in my own skills and contributions to the theatre world. Specifically, the theatre department's ability to connect me with professionals in the Boston area and create a rehearsal environment that mimics the professional theatre space has allowed me to know that it is okay to make mistakes!
What are your post-graduation plans, and how do you believe your time at Salem State has equipped you for success in pursuing them?
I hope to start freelancing in stage management throughout the Boston area and eventually base myself in New York City. SSU has provided me with the financial security to pursue these dreams, and the theatre department has provided me with the connections necessary to start building my database of coworkers and future employers.