Jackson Chapman a first-year student BA Theatre Arts program from Sweetwater, Texas, is double majoring in Theatre Arts and Creative Media and hopes to become a trailblaizer in the film industry as a director, actor, and writer. He believes with the right education and determination anything is possible and sees an Oscar or two in his future. 

What advice would you give perspective students?

“You don't need to figure everything out right now. Your dreams, ambitions, goals, and interests will change. Not having the answers to every question life throws at you is normal, so find the right first step for you and start on that path. You may have to take many turns, turn around, or start an entirely different path for yourself, but that is ok. It's all part of the journey.” 

What do you like about Texas Tech? 

“Definitely the community. Everybody is just so happy to be at Texas Tech. From the football games to the classes, from the professors to the students, we all join together as one and take pride in our school. I have not met one person yet who is not proud to be a Red Raider.”  

What are you most excited about this academic year? 

“Immersing myself with the community. I want to go to as many games, organizations, events, and activities as I can this year. Texas Tech has so much to offer, and I aspire to soak up every ounce of what the college experience has to offer.”  

Holden Jackola, a fourth-year student in the BFA Acting program is from San Antonio, Texas. He plans to move to Los Angeles to purse an acting career in film and television upon graduation. 

What advice would you give perspective students? 

“Use the time you have here to make connections and contacts that will further your career in life after college.” 

What do you like about Texas Tech? 

“I love the games, lifestyle, and atmosphere. Everyone is family and we care about each other.” 

What are you most excited about this academic year? 

“The traveling I'm doing for Tech.” 

Sydney Rood, a fourth-year student in the BFA Dance program is from San Antonio, Texas. Sydney hopes to join a profressional dance company after graduation and, eventually, direct a program that helps foster dance into schools and brings it to those who have no experience with it.

What advice would you give perspective students? 

“Be open to change and new opportunities. You will grow in so many unexpected ways, and it is amazing. If you are closed to the opportunities, you may miss out on something special.” 

What do you like about Texas Tech? 

“I love the community and support we have in our program and college. The faculty support the students in an environment that feels safe and fun. They encourage us to be part of clubs and other extracurriculars, and I really love that.” 

What are you most excited about this academic year? 

“My senior capstone project for Fall Dance Festival! I am excited to create a new work this semester and showcase it to others. I have a really rockin' cast that is incredibly talented!"

Grace Taylor, a fourth-year student from Dallas, Texas, is in her final semester in the BA Theatre Arts program. Grace has found a passion for directing, and created her own YouTube Channel. After graduation, she will move to Scotland to attend the University of Stirling for a business degree in film and media. She then hopes to continue and get her Masters in Film, as well as start her own company. 

What advice would you give perspective students? 

“No matter what obstacles are in your way, you decide what stops you. Keep pushing forward and ask for help when you need it.” 

What do you like about Texas Tech? 

“I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Tech, and I espeically loved all of my professors and mentors.

What are you most excited about this academic year? 

“Graduation! I am very excited to walk the stage with my service dog, Gigi, as a triumphant moment to prove to myself and my family that I prevailed.”