High school seemed so long ago, yet the memories are always within reach. Eight years ago, I didn’t really know exactly what I wanted to do, but I welcomed anything in my interest with open arms, which included the theatre department and the swim team.

Like many others, I was a theatre geek who eventually wanted to be an actress. I had such an interest in performing since I was five years old and I thoughts I wanted to be a stage actress. I spent all my summers at theatre camps and participated in almost all the high school productions. The same goes for swimming. I learned how to swim when I was in Kindergarten and became a co-captain of my high school’s swim team for two years. I’d say those two activities became the bulk of my time at high school, which then developed into true passions of mine.

And I wasn’t the only one. Many of my friends were greatly involved with both theatre and the swim team, so needless to say I grew fonder of them as the years went by and I really did consider them my high school family. For the most part, we got along well and made sure we all made it to practice and rehearsal on time.

When you’re a student who is involved with the arts and varsity sports, you know it’s hard work. As a principle character and as an ensemble member, you bet you have to keep in shape for the dance rehearsals every other day. It helped a lot with staying fit for swim meets and vice versa; swimming built up my endurance for the long rehearsal nights and weekends.

Four years later, graduated with a Bachelors degree in Digital Media: Film, Radio, and TV and a minor in American Studies, I stored my swim suit, wiped off my make-up and, advanced to my seat in the audience because nothing is more nostalgic than watching the memories with my fellow peers dance across the stage or dive into the pool.

I reflect on the memories and the moments that made up who I am today. I may not be involved on the stage or breaking best times in the water, but that doesn’t stop me from supporting and leisurely breathing in the joy these two lifestyles have to offer.

My teachers and coaches have been my guides throughout the whole incredible journey and are the best of the best in their field. They’ve been supportive and they’ve pushed me to become more cultured, faster, and an overall better person.

But of course I owe my biggest thanks and my life to my parents for introducing me to the world of art and sport. They have been my teachers and coaches throughout my entire life and without them, I wouldn’t have known the life I love now.