PMA Class 2025 Graduate Spotlight

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

Acting in the production of “Desdemona”.

What are some favorite memories of PMA or of Cornell?

Taking the “Laughter” and “American Musical” courses.

What are you looking forward to doing after graduation?

Hopefully completing my masters while working on my acting skills and participating in productions back in NYC. 

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

I would tell her “don’t worry, you did it !” I would also say “guard your heart” ! 

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank? (Family, friends, staff, professors, etc...)

Thank you to my PMA advisor, J Ellen Gainor and my arts and sciences advisor, Catherine Ramirez because those two ladies kept me motivated and supported during my time at Cornell and I want to thank them for always reminding me not to be so hard on myself because things will be just fine! They are the reason I felt capable enough to keep going with my two majors and the support they gave me definitely carried me all the way to the finish line.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

Working in "Haunted Nature Hidden Environment". This marked the beginning of my passion for immersive theatre.

What are some favorite memories of PMA or of Cornell?

PMA 1610 Production Technology Laboratory 
PMA 3751 Global Stage 
PMA 3660 Costume Design Studio

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

Don't burn out.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank? (Family, friends, staff, professors, etc...)

I would like to express my gratitude to Professor Ellen Gainor for her Global Stage Series and unwavering support both in class and beyond. I'm also deeply thankful to Professor Jason Simms for helping me direct plays outside of PMA, and for his recognition of my culture as the advisor of our Chinese Drama Society. A big thank you to Production Manager Andrew Deppen, whose support made it possible for me to stage my final show, the "Immersive: Telemachus" at PMA. I’d also like to extend special thanks to those who recognized the hard work of the behind-the-scenes crew, to everyone I’ve had the privilege of working with, to CDSC members who inspired me and reminded me that I am not alone in pursuing modern Chinese theatre, and to my family and friends—George, Ivy, and Yao—whose support, through attending all my shows, has meant so much to me.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

Working as a dresser for Orlando's Gift and helping out on student films (costume designer for Top of My School by Katherine Xu and production designer for Manatee Blues by Giancarlo Restrepo)

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

I would tell myself to get involved in PMA sooner!

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank? (Family, friends, staff, professors, etc...)

Thank you to all my friends and family for helping me get through this, especially my mom-- I couldn't have done any of this without her!

And thank you to Sarah Bernstein for being the best professor, advisor, and mentor I could ask for. I am so grateful for everything she has taught me and for inspiring me to pursue costume design!

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

The whole experience has been one giant, blinding light. Part of it was the work: getting to bring original projects like "The Family Copoli" and "Orlando's Gift" to life, being mentored by some of the most accomplished artists in the world, and having the freedom to participate in a million different ridiculous student and faculty-run productions at once. And the other part was the people -- it's the crazed laughter shared with my friends after rehearsal or on the 10th hour of a film shoot. It's the knowledge that no matter what time of day I walk into the Schwartz building, I'll run into someone I love.

What are some favorite memories of PMA or of Cornell?

How much time do you have? Diving into freezing Cayuga lake this past weekend after wrapping a Film I project. Gently guiding a 2 year old back to the audience after he crawled onstage during a performance of Baby Rock. Running out the door of the Kiplinger Theatre at the end of “The Family Copoli” and watching the finale from backstage. Getting to play one of my dream roles in “Stupid F*cking Bird.” Delirious midnight rehearsals the night before a big Directing I presentation. Blubbering at Taverna Banfi with Oskar Eustis while talking about “Orlando’s Gift.” Improvising songs during long tech rehearsals with the cast of “Orlando’s Gift.” Performing the opening scene of “Orlando’s Gift” with my best friends. Every other moment of making “Orlando’s Gift.”

What are you looking forward to doing after graduation?

First and foremost, I'm so excited to bring "The Family Copoli" to the Edinburgh Fringe festival in August with a gaggle of my closest friends from PMA. Then, shortly after we close our show, I'll be flying out to LA to earn my MFA in acting at the University of Southern California.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

Hey girl!! Just chill. You will make friends. Please get all your requirements out of the way so you can take Wines. Also, Evolution and Biodiversity is NOT an easy class no matter what Reddit tells you. Don't worry, none of your fears are gonna come true. You could never conceive of what will go down over the next three years, so enjoy the ride. Also you have bangs now!

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank? (Family, friends, staff, professors, etc...)

Thanks to my PMA family (Beth Milles, David Feldshuh, Theo Black, J. Ellen Gainor), my improv family (The Whistling Shrimp), my acapella family (The Touchtones), my theater family (you know who you are!), and, of course, my real & wonderful family.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

Building and dancing inside a spider web made out of trash for an Immersive Performance class with Professor Beth Frances Milles. Creating a VR film (for my college scholar thesis) and traveling to Texas for filming.

What are some favorite memories of PMA or of Cornell?

Sunny outdoor classes and late-night editing sessions.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

You won’t regret applying to and studying Performing and Media Arts—it brings together the best people on campus and creates unforgettable memories!

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank? (Family, friends, staff, professors, etc...)

Thank you, Professor Austin Bunn and Jeff Palmer, for your support in my endeavor in documentary filmmaking. Thank you, Professor Sabine Haenni, for your guidance in film studies and history. Thank you, Randy, for always helping with the technical aspects of my shoots. And finally, thank you, Dr. David Feldshuh, for all your guidance and support as my advisor!

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

Working on PMA studios and Puppets & Animation with Professor Embree.

What are some favorite memories of PMA or of Cornell?

Class karaoke with Professor Sheppard.

What are you looking forward to doing after graduation?

Exploring all the film world has to offer.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

Invest more of your time on the PMA train.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank? (Family, friends, staff, professors, etc...)

Professor Sheppard for supporting my last minute major change.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

Becoming our department's resident intimacy coordinator and advocating for localized and departmental change to include ICs in future productions. I am so grateful the majority of my impact has come from conversations with incredible actors, directors, and designers. By carving out a niche, I have learned how to be a better collaborator and interdisciplinary artist. Not to mention friend––it's hairy being a student choreographing your peers.

What are some favorite memories of PMA or of Cornell?

I'll remember laughing really hard and getting out of my head. For that, there are endless people to thank.

What are you looking forward to doing after graduation?

Heading to MFA at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. Rekindling the flame with fellow alumni to form a remote writers' group.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

Follow the first impulse you have and stick with it. (Beth Milles)
Stop apologizing. (David Feldshuh; my mother)
You can talk to anyone.
You should really try Natalie Goldberg's "composting" for writers. 
Pursue everything I didn't know was there. Or didn't feel ready to try.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank? (Family, friends, staff, professors, etc...)

Profs. Juanie Fowlkes, Beth Milles, Mendi Obadike, David Feldshuh, J. Ellen Gainor, Kristen Warner, and Nick Salvato for their guidance. Recommendations, answers, listening, mentorship.

Emily Pugh for being the blueprint of creative and professional integrity.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

Acting in "Orlando's Gift," "Love and Information," and various Film 1 & 2 projects in addition to writing and devising my own solo performance pieces have been the highlights of my time within PMA.

What are some favorite memories of PMA or of Cornell?

Besides directing "Chicago," "Eurydice," and "True West" with Melos and Cog Dog, my favorite Cornell memories center around the incredible people I've met and worked with. Whether it's hanging out in the green room, rehearsing late at night in the Schwartz, or dreaming up the next big production in Risley, my friends have truly made my time at Cornell worthwhile.

What are you looking forward to doing after graduation?

After graduation, I'm looking forward to continuing working as a professional actor, director, and stage manager.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

Try everything! You never know where it may lead.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank? (Family, friends, staff, professors, etc...)

I'd like to thank my incredible professors (in particular David Feldshuh, Carolyn Geolzer, Philip Lorenz, Ellen Gainor, Carolyn Michelle Smith, Beth Milles, and Theo Black) for their mentorship, the wonderful PMA staff (Fritz, Savannah, Tim, Lisa, and Sarah) for their support, and my loving family and friends who always kept me smiling.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

I loved being a part of original productions like The Family Copoli and Orlando's Gift. 

What are some favorite memories of PMA or of Cornell?

Most of all, I loved working with such amazing classmates. I have made lifelong friendships  with some of the most kind, talented, and collaborative people on the planet.

What are you looking forward to doing after graduation?

Continuing to pursue the arts in some way, even if just for fun.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

I would say to get involved with PMA sooner!

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank? (Family, friends, staff, professors, etc...)

I want to thank my parents and family for allowing me to pursue the arts and for coming to every single show, no matter how far from home.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

The highlight for me was definitely my time making my Film 1 project, I had an amazing time and wish I had taken the class earlier in my college career so I could take Film 2, but I know that this isn't the end of my time as a filmmaker so I'm not worried. I'm just sad to not have access to all of the resources, both human and technical available to me.

What are some favorite memories of PMA or of Cornell?

Getting to foster a community of creative people who all care about the success of each others' projects has been really cool and is something I know we'll continue after graduating as we all move into various creative roles.

What are you looking forward to doing after graduation?

Taking a breath and focusing on what's next while being able to relax for a bit. It'll also be nice to have some time to focus on personal projects.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

Just commit to being a PMA major so you won't be sad that you missed out on a bunch of fun classes you could've taken.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank? (Family, friends, staff, professors, etc...)

My parents; my siblings Ben, Sam, and Charlotte; my girlfriend Tiernan; my advisor Dr. Sheppard.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

One of the biggest highlights has been the opportunity to collaborate on so many films and theatrical productions with people who have become some of my closest friends, and will no doubt become lifelong collaborators. From thesis projects like Peerless, Stupid F**king Bird, and Doomscroll to David Feldshuh’s Orlando’s Gift, each experience has challenged me as an artist. Getting to direct my own films while also supporting my peers' projects has been incredibly fulfilling, and I’m grateful to have built such a strong creative community.

What are some favorite memories of PMA or of Cornell?

Some of the best memories have been the moments outside of rehearsals and film shoots, when we got to just be together. Our Orlando’s Gift cast hangouts were some of the most special.

What are you looking forward to doing after graduation?

I’m excited to move to New York City and fully immerse myself in the entertainment industry.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

Don't major in math.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank? (Family, friends, staff, professors, etc...)

Jeff Palmer, for being my mentor in film from the very beginning. From my first-ever short film to my honors thesis film, he has guided me with encouragement, insight, and a genuine belief in my voice as a filmmaker.

Area of Study/Research

My work encompasses Fandom, Media, and Performance Studies. I look at how Racialized Masquerade manifests through both movement and cosmetic embodiment across varied media platforms.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

Having the honor of PMA Co-Sponsoring some of the events on campus I hosted with the Southeast Asia Program and my student orgs— particularly the Ronald and Janette Gatty Lecture Series speakers I invited to Cornell.

What are some favorite memories of PMA?

I have fond memories of dance in the classroom with Jumay Chu, and dance in the Schwartz studios with BreakFree and the Cornell Filipino Association. I experienced powerful performances and workshops by a constantly diverse selection of guests such as Santee Smith, Sharaf DarZaid, Ishmael Houston-Jones, and Keith Hennessy. Most of all, I recall one dinner with John Cameron Mitchell. He made a powerful statement about all the amazing talent he sees not being given a fair shake by The Powers That Be. We had a private conversation afterward on this which would change my life. He referred to our exchange onstage, which promptly brought me (and others in attendance) to tears.

If you could talk to your first-year grad self now, what would you say?

You are not alone. You belong here. This will be an epic uphill battle, but like any legendary quest, you will forge strong bonds with incredible warriors who will fight alongside you.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank?

I am grateful to Dr. Arnika Fuhrmann, Dr. Andrew Campana, Dr. Marina Welker, Dr. Keridwen Luis, and Dr. Howard Liu— you saved my life. I also would like to thank a few PMA peer mentors whose care went above and beyond in impacting my experience: Dr. Victoria Pihl Sørensen, Dr. Victoria Serafini, Dr. Kelly Richmond, Dr. Kriszta Pozsonyi, Dr. Joshua Bastian Cole-Kurz, Rejoice Abutsa, Paige Chung, Andy Colpitts, Gina Goico, and Brian Sengdala.

Anything else you'd like to include?

For a peek at my work, a recording of my Gatty lecture will be available on the SEAP (Southeast Asia Program) YouTube. I also discuss it on The Gatty Lecture Rewind podcast. You can find them here. I hope PMA will strive to retain its spirit of being bold and taking risks. It is a challenging time to do so, but the compassion it takes to give the unconventional and underserved a fair shake is more crucial now than ever.

Area of Study/Research

My interdisciplinary feminist research examines eugenics, population control, and popular culture in Denmark and in Kalaallit Nunaat (Greenland). My disciplinary areas: Cultural studies, media studies, science and technology studies (STS).

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

Getting to teach a variety of classes in PMA both as teaching assistant and instructor of record. Being a member and serving as former president and secretary of Graduate Researchers in Media and Performing Arts (GRMPA), and serving as former graduate student representative. 

What are some favorite memories of PMA?

Summer GRMPA hang-outs in Stewart Park. Watching so many of my peers give amazing talks throughout the years in PMAPS, and getting to come see extraordinary PMA productions, such as Kelly Richmond's Haunted House a fear years ago.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank?

Thank you so much to my amazingly supportive committee for always being there: Nick Salvato and Sabine Haenni in PMA and Suman Seth in STS. Thank you to PMA faculty for giving me advice and guidance throughout the years on teaching and on research. Thank you to PMA staff for always lending a helping hand, especially Chris Christensen who has saved me from tech chaos innumerable times, always graciously and often last minute. Thank you to all my peers in GRMPA - I'm so glad we have each other to lean on.

Area of Study/Research

Comparative philosophies of mediation in underground film, sound, and literature.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

Some of my most meaningful moments include composing and sound designing for "Haunted Natures, Hidden Environments," my involvement with "eTrash: Eco-Feminism and Feminist Ecologies," and various moments in GRMPA's grassroots measures to try and ensure the safety and diversity of PMA as a whole.

What are some favorite memories of PMA?

The friendship, collaboration, camaraderie and support I have experienced with my grad student peers has been immeasurable: from performances and colloquia, to picnics and trivia nights, each memory of my membership within this cohort has meant the world to me.

If you could talk to your first-year grad self now, what would you say?

I would let her know that she did earn her place, she does belong here, and she will do things that make herself proud.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank?

I would like to thank my special committee (Profs. Sabine Haenni, Naminata Diabate, and Erik Born), the friends, family and faculty who have supported me, every step of the way, and my wonderful students. Above all, I want to thank my wife Meagan and our furry son, Béla, for giving me the very best home to go back to each night!

Anything else you'd like to include?

Over the last six years, my life has completely transformed for the better: since joining the ranks of PMA, I have gained a sense of home, a sense of hope, and a sense of self I would never before have dreamed possible. My love and gratitude to you all.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

I loved dancing in the Kip during my freshman and sophomore years in Locally Grown Dance in the pieces choreographed by Byron Suber, such as Aracne (2023) and the Bach piece (2022). Getting to perform en pointe was incredible, and I learned so much from the rehearsals and the people around me. I also produced films in both the film lab class and Technology of the Moving Body, learning how to use photoshop and video editors as well.

What are some favorite memories of PMA?

1) I will always remember dancing in the Kip theater with my friends and getting flowers after each show; 2) I love watching the studio turn into a snow globe when we are dancing and it is snowing outside; 3) introducing non-PMA friends to ballet for the first time; 4) filming the maze for Byron's piece.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

Don't be afraid to try everything, and if you see cornell is missing something, make it yourself! And don't be afraid to have fun :)

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank?

Danielle Russo for her unwavering support of dance and ballet at Cornell; Andrew Lee Deppen for making ballet club happen; Byron Suber for teaching me how to be creative and flexible with ballet.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

Spending my evenings in technique class was a highlight of being a dance minor. This consistent practice has grounded me throughout college and allowed me to expand my physicality and artistry more than I ever could have imagined.

What are some favorite memories of PMA?

Some of my favorite memories came from performing in the Schwartz Center and across campus. I loved culminating each of my four years with a performance in the Kip. The dance faculty have also provided exciting opportunities to dance in site-specific works, from the Cornell Botanic Gardens to the Fiume Serchio in Italy!

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

Don't worry, you won't always get bruises from floorwork.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank?

I'd like to thank Olive Price and Danielle Russo for their support, guidance, and care. I am grateful for everything they have so generously shared, in and out of the studio.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

I worked on Desdemona and a few Special Events for a semester (when I wasn’t drowning in CS).

What are some favorite memories of PMA?

I got to meet Daveed Diggs and ask him stupid questions while testing his mics. Then I got to eat at the same table as him (it was a very long table). I also enjoyed meeting Rokia Traoré, but I was still happy when Desdemona ended.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

Take more PMA classes now, and become a triple major. It’ll be fun. Just do it for the plot. Also, don’t do Desdemona.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank?

Theo Black, thank you for introducing me to Daveed Diggs. Sara Warner, thank you for having a super chill class and laughing at my jokes. Warren Cross, I think I’ll miss you most of all. You made long tech days very fun (I wish you were there for Desdemona), and I will miss our sarcastic conversations.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

One of my favorite aspects of being a Media Studies minor is the chance to explore my creative side through an Introduction to Photography course. This class allows me to merge my passion for art and storytelling with my interests in Classics and design in a way that feels both meaningful and inspiring.

What are some favorite memories of PMA?

I have truly enjoyed the time I have spent in the Media Studies Minor Colloquium, where I have had the chance to learn about my peers’ interests and motivations for pursuing Media Studies, while also building a strong sense of community.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

Try new things, even the ones that scare you a little! The classes you take, the people you meet, and the risks you take will all shape your path in ways that you can’t yet imagine.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank?

I am especially grateful to Professor Jeremy Braddock for his invaluable support as I began my journey in the Media Studies program. I would also like to thank Professor Sabine Haenni for her care and dedication to fostering a strong sense of community among Media Studies students.

Anything else you'd like to include?

Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of the Media Studies Program!

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

Some of my highlights include, working on many film projects for film 1 and 2, acting for Milkshake Kiss (PMA Studios), and Theo's Shakespeare Studio and Ophelia.

What are some favorite memories of PMA?

Working with other actors in Milkshake Kiss and building new friendships. Also making short movies with fish heads for Doo Rim's media production lab class.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

Don't be afraid, take the chance.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank?

I want to thank my mom for her unwavering support, my brother Daniel for starring in my very first film, my incredible friends for always cheering me on, and Professor Juanie Fowlkes for her guidance and mentorship.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

I got to make 2 short films- Beartrap and Athlete. Beartrap was featured at aster film festival!

What are some favorite memories of PMA?

Doing the warm up exercise with David Feldshuh.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

Take more classes at the PMA.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank?

I’d like to thank David Feldshuh, Jeffrey Palmer, Jason Simms, Dr. Samantha Sheppard, Austin Bunn, and Sarah Bernstein.

Anything else you'd like to include?

While taking classes at the PMA, I developed a feature film that’s now raised over 100k in funding. Through the help and guidance of faculty and students I feel like I can approach this new challenge with confidence.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

All the acting classes I've gotten to take over my time at Cornell (dating back to my freshman fall!), Directing I with David, the theory and discussion classes I got to take with Ellen, all the cool experiences I got from taking 1610 in the scene and costume shop, the list of classes I got to take and the things I got to learn through the PMA classes I could go on forever.

What are some favorite memories of PMA?

The night of the "Great Fire" during Orlando tech, shenanigans during Stupid F***ing Bird tech and eating hundreds of Life Savers, awesome mid-class/pre-rehearsal naps on the Green Room Couch, and the uncountable late nights spent devising, rehearsing or generally messing around with some of the coolest collaborators out there.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

You will find your calling, you will find your passion, and you will find your family. It might seem scary now, and unyieldingly lonely, but you will find the right people and they will love and accept you for who you are, entirely. But most of all, be good.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank?

My mom and dad, for giving me a good head and always pushing me further. Ty, Nick and Leo for being the bestest friends the last four years and lifesavers more times than they'll ever know. Skylar, for keeping me grounded but also being behind my dreams since day one. All the professors and faculty at the Schwartz, who have seen me fail one time or another but still believed in me and pushed me to succeed. And the Performing Arts village, who are my brothers and sisters and would do anything for me, just as I would do anything for them.

Anything else you'd like to include?

Never say goodbye, because goodbye means going away, and going away means forgetting.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

PMA Studios 1611 Milkshake Kiss: Screenwriter & Actor
David Feldshuh’s Directing I Class

What are some favorite memories of PMA?

Dancing and singing in the ballet studio, spending time with friends I’ve made in my classes, and acting in a diner built for PMA Studios.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

Your dream of having a script of yours turned into a short film has come true.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank?

My sister Isabelle Pinard and my grandmother Choon Pinard.

Anything else you'd like to include?

Don’t settle for what is safe and miss out on the thrill of living.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

Being part of PMA Studios this semester was an incredibly rewarding experience. I loved getting to play a role in a project that brought such a talented, dedicated group of people together - we truly became a family by the end. I’m so proud of everything we accomplished. Beyond the hands-on production work and the insight into how a real film set operates, we had the amazing opportunity to connect with and learn from professionals currently working in the industry. It was an unforgettable experience that deepened both my skills and my passion for storytelling.

What are some favorite memories of PMA?

I’d have to say all of the assignments in PMA 1410 with Doorim were some of my absolute favorites. We had such a fun and creative group, and every project felt like a chance to experiment and grow. From the music video to the unforgettable fish (#iykyk), it was a blast getting to collaborate, be imaginative, and learn so much along the way.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

If I could give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be to get involved in PMA much sooner. Coming from a background in musical theater, I initially found my creative outlets at Cornell through a cappella and dance. But it wasn’t until I started taking film courses in the spring of my junior year that I discovered my true passion for storytelling and the film industry. I’m incredibly grateful I found my way to it, and I’m excited to carry these skills with me into whatever path my career takes.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank?

PMA wouldn’t be the incredible department it is without the phenomenal faculty and staff who bring it to life.

Thank you, Jeff, for always laughing at my jokes (whether out of genuine amusement or pure pity), and for consistently encouraging my ideas, inspiring a newfound love for documentary, and reminding me to keep film in my life no matter where I go.

Thank you, Alexa, for making me chuckle often, for teaching me everything I didn’t know I needed to learn, for being the absolute coolest, and for always having my back.

Thank you, Dr. Sheppard, for being effortlessly hip, for singing in class (and letting me join in), for being funnier than I’ll ever admit, for listening to me ramble endlessly, and for supporting me as I take my next steps.

To every professor and faculty member I’ve had the chance to learn from, thank you. Your guidance has played such a key role in shaping not only my academic path but my passion for storytelling and film.

To my friends, you’re the best, but you already knew that.

And to my family, thank you for always standing behind me and for watching every single thing I’ve created. I love you all so much.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

I've really enjoyed the dance minor classes! I love the ballet classes and some of my other favorites were Global Dance and Media Production Lab.

What are some favorite memories of PMA?

My favorite memories of PMA have been the performance opportunities! I love rehearsing with my friends and getting to share our work with audience!

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank?

The dance community has been incredible and a such an important part of my Cornell experience! I am so grateful for all my friends and professors.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

I participated in a PMA production my first semester at Cornell and it allowed me meet new friends and have the opportunity to perform at such an incredible school. In addition to the many PMA classes I've taken, my favorite involvement with PMA is my job working front desk as one of the Building and House managers in the Schwartz Performing Arts center. I always enjoy seeing my friends in the department and hearing about all the fun projects, performances, and films they prepare each semester.

What are some favorite memories of PMA?

I have enjoyed attending different PMA events at Schwartz both when I am working and when I am off the clock. From films to student performances, I am always amazed with the range of performances that are organized by the PMA department. In particular, I love attending the student film screenings where the theater is filled with supportive friends and faculty. It is always exciting to see the final projects come together.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

I would say to actively seek out more opportunities in the theater department as well as around campus because I have met some of my closest friends from random events or club activities that I participated in. Don't isolate yourself to one type of experience or club, so please explore unexpected areas of interest. You never know what you may find.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank?

I would like to thank my managers at Schwartz, Andrew and Alexa for being so helpful in organizing PMA performances and the Building Manager schedules--it is always hectic but they make it look easy. And I would like to thank all my teachers from previous (and current) classes: Doorim Kim for an awesome semester in studio production, learning all about film and producing exciting projects; Sarah Bernstein for an inspiring semester of creative character development that brought back my love for drawing and media with projects that challenged my creativity in the best way; Aoise Stratford for an amazing (and currently still amazing) semester in playwriting that has helped me understand the power of storytelling and characters to an audience; Andy Colpitts for supporting me from my first class at Cornell to strengthening my passion for performing. And finally, a very special thank you to J. Ellen Gainor for all of her support throughout my entire Cornell career. I have taken many classes with Ellen and she has been so kind in every class with her passion for theater, her passion for teaching, and her overall enthusiastic spirit. She is truly an unforgettable professor and individual.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

I'll always remember being part of a film set for the first time my freshman spring working on a UCLA thesis feature film. Seeing but not quite understanding all the movie magic happening around me while also getting to know all the wonderful people that brought it to life was an incredible experience. I remember thinking, so this is how movies are made. I'm also proud of the documentary short I shot my senior fall with it being the first and only film I have created.

What are some favorite memories of PMA?

Getting to see all the great theater productions throughout the years at the Schwartz along with the end-of-semester screenings to see all the incredible films everyone created. Getting to crew on various film 1 and film 2 shoots late into the night, and also struggling with my classmates to stay awake for those long 8am classes.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

Keep trying new things, taking classes, and getting involved. Learn as much as you can and create as much as you can.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank?

I'd like to thank Prof. Jeff Palmer, Prof. Doorim Kim, and Waylon Wilson for their support and guidance in my classes. I'm also grateful for all the friends I've made and people I've met through PMA.

What are some highlights of your involvement in PMA?

Making film in the film II class with Jeff, Doorim, and all the friends I made in the class.

If you could talk to your Freshman self now, what would you say?

Take more film class and go for that PMA major.

Is there anyone in particular you'd like to thank?

Randy, you are the best!!