Major:
BFA in Acting
Hometown:
Fairmont, WV
Why did you choose to attend WVU?
Originally it was because the in state tuition; I grew up knowing that college would be a difficult thing to pay for. But I worked hard and was awarded scholarships allowing me to pay for my college in full; even the Theatre Department awarded me a small scholarship during the WV Thespian Festival my Senior Year of high school. I originally enrolled as an International Studies major with a minor in theatre. However I found my passion in the arts and performance and went all in the acting program, auditioning for the Studio Acting exclusive training at the CAC.
What is your profession now?
I am a professional actor and theatrical educator. I have performed across the United States, from New York City to Missouri, to Washington DC. I also teach acting and playwriting to children ranging in ages from 5 all the way up to high school.
What is your most interesting current/upcoming project?
Currently I am premiering my self written One Man Show Off Broadway entitled "Did My Grandfather Kill My Grandfather?" at Pan Asian Repertory Theatre's Nu Works Festival in June! I wrote this show about my personal life journey to discover what it means to be Asian American. Growing up in rural West Virginia, going to WVU, moving to New York City, and pursuing acting has given me an interesting perspective in regards to embracing my Asian Heritage; the show follows my mother's immigration story from Vietnam and showcases my changing belief systems around my Asian Identity and what it all means. I am honored to have my West Virginia origin story be told on stage in NYC and hope to continue developing it at more theaters for another production soon!
How do you feel WVU and the College of Creative Arts prepared you for your career?
I felt prepared in regards to training and acting. I truly believe that I graduated with all the tools necessary to compete with any other talent in the entertainment industry.
If you could give one piece of advice to incoming or current students in WVU's College of Creative Arts, what would it be?
Do not expect the road to be paved for you. I thought "If I go to college everything will be smooth sailing" But that was not the case. Be prepared to pursue what you love; even though it is hard it is worth it. Take as many opportunities as you can OUTSIDE of WVU. Don't wait until gradation before exploring the world and finding your place in it. Pursuit of the arts is the most powerful path you can take; to change the world through artistic expression isn't easy but it's doable. My small-town story has been deemed enough to be worthy of a stage in New York City- your story is also worthy to tell the world.