Coming in as a spring transfer student, my college experience was already a little different from the traditional path. But every spring and summer the Abbeystone Theater at Busch Gardens becomes my third home (after my house and W&M!). During my family tradition of visiting Williamsburg twice a year since I was two, we would walk around campus, stroll down D.O.G. Street, and watch the Irish dance show Celtic Fyre at Busch Gardens. So as soon as I knew I would be going to W&M, I knew I had to audition for the show. Working a full time performing job while also a full-time college student has its pros and cons. My days consist of school in the morning, grabbing food to go from Sadler or Caf and long 8-12 hours of rehearsal or a 3-4 show day. Initially I was concerned that being away from campus for such long periods of time would make me feel disconnected and behind, but  that certainly hasn’t been the case. My professors at William & Mary have been so helpful and supportive of me chasing my dream, making sure that I don’t miss any information and stay on track. Even if it means watching lectures remotely or meeting during office hours. Having such a busy schedule has taught me how to be more efficient in managing my time and also the importance of taking breaks. Jumping straight into the working world as soon as I got to college was both exciting and a bit overwhelming, but I wouldn’t have been able to do it without such a strong support system. 

Me as lead in Celtic Fyre!