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I decided to audition for a MFA program this year back in March. I decided to go back for my MFA last summer and also applied for a MTA program. So of course for months anxiety built and I dealt with the usual transcript transfers, letters of recommendations, and the hardest part of all, choosing my pieces. I knew I needed two contrasting pieces, but this is Graduate school I have to be smart. So I researched what other people and professors offered, and Of course the program I was applying for. A lot of the people said something in common. Be yourself, and truly contrast the pieces. Comedy verse drama is not enough; show a different energy so to say. A different side of yourself. Also don't spend time in the interview presenting someone you are not. They want to see you, scary Huh?

Finally, I choose my pieces and well, let's go to the day. I arrive 10 am that morning to meet the professor of voice and acting, and spent some time with her. Then I went on through the day being led by a graduate student, touring the building and talking about the program. I felt nerves, but I also was anxious for my audition/interview. I had built it up so much in my mind that I knew it would come soon enough. I observed a voice class, and then it was time. I got a few minutes to prepare, and then auditioned for two of the professors. I first did my contemporary piece, and then followed by my classic. The lady had told me earlier we would then work on a piece, so we worked on my contemporary piece. I did the piece differently three times, taking the different notes of their direction. Then that was it, my interview followed that. There was a point that she asked me a few questions about my monologue and what my character wanted and what were the struggles. The question wasn't specific and a little vague actually and I believe, when I looked at it later I missed what she was referring to.

Next my interview, which she had to leave half way through, but thank goodness she had told me that she, had to leave before my audition, so I didn't think it was a reflection of my work. She also reiterated that she wasn't trying to skip out, so I felt ok. I continued interviewing with the other professor. I asked questions even about notes for my pieces. He said he was impressed, not to knock on my talent or anything, but that most people couldn't adjust like that, and that I was under my monologue. He said I did very well, and I felt very happy and confident about it. I then went to lunch with some students and observed an acting studio session and was on my way. The hard part was over, and I rode home back to Jackson with my hubby who had come with me to my audition. I felt like I did well, and felt much better than I usually do after an audition, and I also felt I was myself, which is scary sometimes. Will they like me, I know acting in truth is important, but the interview? Let’s say I seem too weird or energetic, or they think I’m crazy and you know stuff like that... Also I knew that I being accepted had to do with what they needed in their mix, also seeing it is a very small program. I also knew that the professor said four undergraduates were graduating over, so even a smaller program. Also my husband and others helped build my confidence up that I felt I did have a chance. Plus the professor seemed impressed with my work. But sadly but true a month later I was rejected. Aaaaagh!! So let's just say they can tell you, you are talented, but honk!! Try again! They encourage you to apply again of course, but we all know the pain of rejection. I can't tell you the thoughts and emotions I went, and are still going through. Luckily I have a few fans that support my talent, and I am trying to believe it wasn't my time, but it does hurt!!! Will I audition next year?? Well I'm awaiting things at the moment, and hoping for different opportunities. Am I going to quit acting, no, before hand I was dramatic and said I would, but I love it too much...? As much as it hurts and even though my heart carries disappointment, my craft goes on. No one says Theater is easy and there will always be let downs. But I know my passion and desire outweigh my fears of rejection. And the magic that I've had through it, and all the more to come is worth the hurt I may endure in the process.