How Theater Effected My Youth by Jessica

How Theater Effected My Youth by Jessica - December 2013 Scholarship Essay

Growing up, my family moved frequently due to my Father's job. He was not in the military, he was simply driven and accepted any promotion he offered even when that required us to move at least ever 2 years. Although this allowed me to be exposed to a large variety of personalities, cultures and parts of the country; it also made it difficult to develop my sense of self. I was never in one school long enough to make real friends or participate in any activities. This had made it difficult for me to decipher what I wanted to do with my life. When I started my junior year in Virginia, I felt lost. I was completely without direction and frankly, I was starting to panic. I was starting college in 2 years. How was I going to choose a major? I had never even really done anything before. I had interests, but didn't know if I had enough talent to pursue them. All of that changed the day I met Mrs. Peggy Fisher in Rocky Mount Virginia.

I remember it like it was yesterday. I was so shy, and excluding my participation in a 5th grade musical, I had never participated in Drama in the slightest. Theater had always interested me though, especially musical theater. I loved to sing and I was definitely a dramatic teenage girl so I figured I would give it a shot. It was the best decision of my high school career. Everyone in that classroom on that first day welcomed me as if I was their long lost sister. I felt like I was home. Soon I was memorizing lines, competing in theater competitions and winning! Then came the time of year for the musicals. I was in heaven. I had never felt so at peace and alive all at once in my life. I felt so much joy on that stage with my friends, my family.

Not only did Theater give me an activity that allowed me to have fun and express myself, it helped me come out of my shell. There's something about being surrounded by people that are just as awkward as you that makes it okay to not be perfect. In a society where perfection seems to be a prerequisite for our youth I think we need more of that. It is my wish for the kids today to find a similar activity and group of friends that help them realize that who they are is who they are supposed to be and that is wonderful.