My Professional Side

Below: My portrayal of "Romaine Patterson" in Ocean Township High School's 2007 production of The Laramie Project

Right: May 1st, 2008 - Me accepting a Count Basie Theatre Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama for my role in The Laramie Project. A slideshow of additional photos from the performances can be viewed here.

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As previously stated, I made it a point all throughout grade school to stay involved with some of the things that mattered the most to me. Included in that list of priorities was singing, acting, and public speaking.

My sophomore year of high school I auditioned for and was accepted into the All Shore Chorus, which was an honor because it was only for the best singers from high schools throughout the jersey shore area. We practiced both classical and modern styles.

Junior year I was presented with an extensive role in my high school's production of Into The Woods in which I portrayed "Florinda", one of the wicked step-sisters to "Cinderella". I was challenged to sing many harmonies with my partner, the other step-sister "Lucinda". This part was very crucial in furthering my experience with singing and acting. It was a huge part of my decision to move into the Communication field because it helped me to realize that speaking and performing was my forte.

My role in our 2007 production of The Laramie Project was even more influential over my chosen path of study. With our incredible turnout our school's drama club was able to raise over $10,000 that was donated to The Center in Asbury Park, NJ (an HIV/AIDS response organization) and to the Matthew Shepherd Foundation. I've talked so much about it because it is quite possibly my fondest memory of high school and performing. Once I accepted the count basie award in May I knew that I was meant to use my voice in any way possible.

My most recent experience with mine and my classmate Destyne Pitts' radio show has opened my eyes to an additional medium that I am interested in. I am actually beginning to lean toward radio as a possible career choice. I have never felt as comfortable with public entertainment as I do with our radio show and I hope to gain more much experience within the radio field.

I am hoping that 2009 will bring great things for me and more exploration into my professional side.