John's Thoughts on Texas State

Why Texas State

I came to Texas State for a summer theatre camp while I was in high school. I fell in love with the campus and thought it would be a good fit based on the students and staff who conducted the program. 

Why Playwriting

I’m pursuing my master’s degree in playwriting because it’s the niche in theatre that I found myself most drawn to as an undergraduate.

Career Goals

After getting my master’s degree at Texas State, I hope to receive a writing Fellowship in Burbank, California, or be accepted into a doctorate program in creative writing. I know I eventually will be in front of a college classroom, and I hope to continue writing on a freelance basis.

How My Major Will Help Me Reach My Goals

The opportunities the Department of Theatre and Dance has given me to showcase my plays have been immeasurable. The faculty has been completely accessible as advisors and mentors. Our department chair is a playwright himself, so I’m receiving invaluable information from someone in my field.

Typical Day

I have two graduate assistantships, so I find myself at school from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day. If I’m not in the classroom for my own degree, I’m in the classroom as a teacher’s assistant (TA) or as an assistant to the head of Technology and Design.

Favorite Professor

Every one of my professors has been instrumental in my success at Texas State. Academically, Dr. Debra Charlton has been the key figure in getting me into the program and providing me support. Theatre grad students have a wonderful advocate in her. Professionally, Dr. John Fleming is providing me excellent direction in how to maneuver in the business at this point in my career. 

 

Best Studying Advice

Get it done early. Once an assignment comes your way, do not tuck it away until the due date nears. If nothing else, do preliminary work on it immediately, and work on it every day. Before you know it, the studying is done way in advance, and you have more time to focus.

Honors and Awards

J. Peter Coulson Scholarship
Texas State Graduate Scholarship
Celebrity Classic Scholarship
STARS Scholarship
Department of Theatre and Dance Scholarship

What I Tell Future Texas State Students

Absolutely do it. The campus is beautiful. And the education you receive, especially for the price, is impeccable. Of course, you have to make the best of it. Get involved! Whatever your major is, it isn’t enough to simply show up at class to do the work. There are so many activities going on every day, even geared to your specific major and interests. Get involved! It’s the best way to make contacts, and it will prove invaluable after graduation. Also, get to know your professors. You’ll find that they are accessible and willing to share their knowledge beyond the classroom.