A Dream Passed Down

My life is a testament to the power of dreams. Unlike members of my family who saw their dreams fall to the evils of drugs, alcohol and unexpected realities, I have resolved to allow my dreams of becoming an entertainer to flourish. That determination stems from my uncle always telling me “One of these days you will star in my movie, I promise you.” This statement inspired my admiration for the artistry of acting. The thought of being on stage in a play or on a movie set sparked a flare in my heart that is indescribable.

As I grew older, I came to realize that my uncle was not a director and that the promises of casting me in his films were just wishful thinking on the part of a man who had to compensate for his lost hopes—for his elusive dream. I was not discouraged by this realization. Instead I used my uncle’s stories as a source of hope and determination that would lead me on the path to making my dreams a reality. I know that studying theater in college will be a huge stride toward achieving my goal as I prepare to dedicate my college life to acting. It takes courage to devote oneself to a craft rather than a career and to live with uncertainty. I have developed strong faith and as long as there is a one percent possibility of being a success in the business, then I have a chance.

My love of acting was purely theoretical until I became involved with theatre and drama during my freshman year of high school. I had been involved in soccer and baseball but I knew that these sports were not my passion – that they did not bring out the kind of joy and willingness to commit myself to them as drama did. I am a devout student of acting, as is evident by my tireless work in theatre and through the great training and experience I have received as an actor. I have been in seven theatrical productions, done voice over work for Gottschalks in addition to Alta Bates Summit Medical Center, and filmed a PSA for foster children across America.

I know that acting is my career; my life’s calling. It is a great feeling on stage to be able to release your soul—to go crazy—and not worry about what others think in your normal life. Working on stage is an invitation to get into a character’s skin and give a genuine, sometimes wild, performance. More than the joy of being on stage, I appreciate acting for the immense joy it brings to children and adults who become engaged with the plays. Their laughter at a well-timed comedic scene and their gasp and at an emotional and suspenseful scene is something I consider to be a blessing. The ability to use my talent to give people an escape from their burdens is very fulfilling. I must admit that my love of acting is not based solely on selfless reasons because being a performer allows me to step away from my often stressful life and to step into the world of another. The liberating feeling I have after I finish a performance is proof positive that acting is more than just a major to me—it is my purpose.

I always think about my uncle, whose promises have guided me through life, giving me the strength and bravery to complete a dream that began with my grandfather two generations ago. Hopefully, one day my dreams will no longer be a fantasy but rather a reality, and that one day my uncle will see his dreams come true through me.