Student Blog: Half Way Done: Lessons From My First Two Years in a BFA Program

It's crazy to think I'm halfway through my BFA program. I've had lots of ups and downs and a big unexpected twist with the pandemic. Even though it's been chaotic, I've learned a lot about myself and have grown immensely in my craft. I've gained some valuable skills, strengthen others, and learned a crucial lesson.

With the challenges I've faced throughout these past four semesters, I've discovered that I'm an incredibly perseverant student. There have been several times where quitting seemed like the easiest choice. When I was homesick and having a hard time adjusting to campus life, I often contemplated going home. When covid hit, It was hard to imagine a future where theater could become my full-time career. I am so happy I pushed through because now the world is beginning to open up again, and I'm back on campus doing what I loved. I truly believe I came out of this first half of my college career stronger and more determined in my goals.

The mixture of online classes and campus life has allowed me to grow in independence. Moving away from home was an exciting transition where I had to learn to do everything for myself. I was in charge of my time management and budgeting. Being online helped me grow in my academic independence. The lack of in-person resources such as rehearsal rooms and live accompanists forced me to take responsibility for my growth. Online, it seems easy to do the bare minimum, but if I did, I wouldn't grow as an artist. This newfound independence is a fantastic asset that will help me not only for the rest of my college career but also for the rest of my life.

The most important advice I can give students starting their BFA program is to focus on their own path. When I first got to school, I was constantly comparing myself to my classmates. That first semester, I focused on who could belt higher and who was the best actor that I forgot to focus on how to improve. The pandemic gave me horse blinkers and forced me to focus on myself. I was so focused on my improvement that I grew so much and developed my skills further. Now that I'm back on campus, I hope I wouldn't fall back on old habits and instead continue to focus on my own artistic journey.

These are just a few of the countless lessons I've learned. throughout my first two years of school. I've truly grown so much and I'm so thankful for the opportunities I've had so far. I hope that the rest of my BFA is equally as fruitful and that I can continue to become a better artist and human being.

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