Sit Back, Relax... and Enjoy the Show

How far I’ve come…

Something hit me just now.

I was looking at a friend’s Facebook profile. She’s 21 today. She was my best friend back in 6th grade. We were both 11 years old. That was almost 10 years ago.

I thought of all that I’ve accomplished in that 10 years. I faced my fears of junior high school at a different place with no friends, and I learned how to make friends. I first discovered my passion for performing in junior high by joining the band and learning how to play the clarinet. I discovered theatre and how I could put my amazing memorization skills to use. I discovered that I loved acting. Then high school came around, and I was still in the marching band, but I was part of the color guard instead. I was able to really perform more and tell a story, which I loved. Then I dropped out so I could devote all my time to theatre. I made it through those four years of high school with some minor “dramas,” but some amazing memories, experiences and friends. The 2 years at COC flew by right before my eyes and suddenly, I find myself in Chicago. I’ve collected so many tools from my first theatre teacher, Mrs. Kennedy (RIP), to the teachers I have today, and I’ve worked diligently on my singing technique and I’ve improved immensely in my craft. Only one more year of college to go until I go out in the real world, make connections, and make a name for myself.

The past 10 years we’re truly the defining years of my life. I can’t believe how quickly my childhood disappeared before my eyes. I’m suddenly all grown up and I’m not sure exactly when it happened… But I’m glad it did.

I can’t wait to begin the next chapter of my life and “live what I love.”