Inspiration and Perspiration by Alexis

Inspiration and Perspiration by Alexis - November 2022 Scholarship Essay

Going into the new school year, I was terrified. Before this semester, I had only ever gone to a small community college. Now, I was finally going to a big school with a HUGE campus and an absolutely amazing library. While exciting, the entire transfer process was petrifying. I did not know anyone. I did not know where any of my classes were. I didn't even know where to find the book store! But within my very first week, everything changed...
At the moment, I'm majoring in Theatre (although I would love to have Theatre, Education, and English under my belt). And at this new big school that I'm attending, all performance arts majors are REQUIRED to be in the fall musical. Normally, this wouldn't be a problem for me. I love singing, dancing, and acting! But you have to remember, I still didn't have a clue who anybody was. Not to mention that auditions were the FIRST WEEK OF SCHOOL. I had to hurry and give my best under the eyes of the unfamiliar. Of course, I bombed. I landed a side part with no lines, but I suppose every play needs the background characters. Having received this role, I was bummed and started to fall into a small depression- slowly blocking out the world. Unbeknownst to me, the wacky group I was cast with would soon pull me back out!
Every single person in that theatre group was incredibly friendly and out going. They all made me feel welcome and right at home. Together we sang. Together we danced. Together we laughed. Suddenly, it didn't matter if I had a main role or not. As long as I was doing what I loved with the people I cared about by my side, then I could be content. Each of us put our blood, sweat, and tears into that show. Each of us gave up late nights and early mornings to perfect what we could. And in the end, each of us put a piece of our hearts and souls into the production.
Finally on show night, as I was standing off to the side, watching the leads belt out an amazing track, my chest swelled up with pride. This was a place where I felt at home. This was a place that would give me outstanding opportunities if I would only let it. So even though I spent months sweating through the choreography only to end up outside the spotlight, I couldn't help but to feel inspired. I was inspired by the people who gave me their time and friendship when I was in a place where I desperately needed it. I became inspired to be more like them, offering love and kindness with words of comfort. They are… the most inspiring people I've met, not only thus semester, but in my lifetime.