What I plan to major in and why? by Luka

What I plan to major in and why? by Luka - April 2025 Scholarship Essay

Success, to me, isn’t measured by lead roles, awards, or red carpets—it’s defined by the foundation I build as an artist, student, and storyteller. As I begin my academic journey, my goal is to attend a prestigious Acting or Musical Theater program where I can develop the technical skills, stamina, and emotional resilience needed to sustain a long, fulfilling career in the entertainment industry. I want to be ready for the physical and mental demands of performing eight shows a week on Broadway, while also building the versatility to transition between theater, television, and film.

From a young age, storytelling has been at the core of who I am. Whether through acting, writing, or filmmaking, I’ve always felt drawn to the art of bringing stories to life. But my aspirations go beyond mastering technique. I want to find and sharpen my unique voice as an artist—one that brings joy and connection to audiences while spotlighting stories that too often go unheard.

Representation is central to my purpose. As a Black artist, I am deeply aware of how the entertainment industry has historically overlooked or misrepresented people who look like me. I want to help change that—not just by playing complex, authentic characters, but by creating them. I hope to develop original projects that reflect real, diverse experiences and challenge industry norms. My dream is to contribute to a more inclusive and dynamic landscape in both film and theater, where voices of all backgrounds are heard, valued, and celebrated.

Equally important to my training is the community I build around me. I want to collaborate with mentors and peers who are just as passionate about the arts as I am. A strong, supportive network will not only open doors but also help me stay grounded and inspired in an industry that can be challenging and unpredictable. I believe that growth happens through connection—whether it's with cast mates backstage, directors in rehearsals, or audiences in the front row.

I also want to push myself creatively. I’m excited to explore roles and material that stretch my abilities and force me out of my comfort zone. I hope to graduate with a diverse portfolio that reflects my range—not just in terms of genre or style, but in the depth and complexity of the stories I help tell. The ability to shift from musical theater to dramatic film to original writing is not just a career advantage—it’s how I’ll keep evolving as an artist.

Ten years from now, I see myself actively working in the entertainment industry—performing, creating, and collaborating on projects that matter. I hope to have built a body of work that includes performances across stage and screen, as well as original pieces that I’ve written or directed. Whether I’m acting in someone else’s vision or bringing my own to life, I want to be part of stories that inspire, challenge, and reflect the world as it is—and as it could be.

The journey won’t be easy. Balancing academics, rehearsals, and personal commitments has already taught me discipline and resilience. And I’m realistic about the financial hurdles that come with pursuing a career in the arts. But I refuse to let those obstacles define or limit my path. With the support of scholarships and a relentless commitment to my craft, I’ll continue working toward my goals while using my platform to uplift others.

In the end, I want to make people feel seen. I want to create art that brings people together, encourages empathy, and leaves a lasting impression. Whether I’m on stage, in front of a camera, or writing behind the scenes, I’ll keep chasing that dream—the day something I created comes to life, and someone in the audience sees themselves in it.