My First Real Job

My dream was acting, but I got my bachelor’s degree (in Tennessee) in broadcast journalism so I would have something to fall back on. In Nashville and in L.A., I got good work in TV, feature films, plays. But I wanted more intellectually. I enrolled at Cal State L.A.

I wanted to combine my theater background with business. And it worked its way into something I could never dream of doing elsewhere. I’m an administrator at the Harriet and Charles Luckman Fine Arts Complex, a new $22 million facility on the Cal State L.A. campus. We open this fall. It’s a performing space and gallery for professional theater and art.

I started as a graduate assistant here, doing planning for the opening year. Then they offered me a position I created myself. I bring fifth- through eighth-graders from East L.A. onto the campus to expose them to the arts. It gives them the idea that there’s more out there. I also design a family series (of performances) that is wholesome and affordable.

Going back to get my master’s has given me a new sense of empowerment and creativity. And I am giving more back to society than if I was just being an actor.

The most valuable thing for me in my education has been having a mentor. Mine has been Clifford Harper, who was chairman of the theater department when I was in it and is now executive director of Luckman.

For anyone pursuing a career, it’s imperative to look around and find a role model to give you intelligent feedback. Also you have to find ways to volunteer in your field. It’s the only way you learn about an organization hands-on. That way you can show your skill and dedication. You have to prove yourself. I don’t expect anyone to give me anything.

I know a lot of young kids feel pressure to get out of high school and get a job. But going to college is really worth it. It’s tough while you’re doing it, but the benefits are so great. You reap a monetary reward and also a personal reward that no one can take away from you. A sense of accomplishment. It makes me wake up every morning and smile and thank God.