Alyssa Frederick ’19 majored in Theatre with a concentration in Stage Management. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Theatre Education and Applied Theatre at Emerson College.

Q. How did your URI degree best prepare you for your career path?

A. My URI degree really opened my eyes to the multiple different sections of theatre and all the things I could do within the arts that’s not just acting. It taught me the many different working parts that go with a performance.

In your opinion, what is the value of the arts both academically and in the community?

The arts are SO important in academia because it helps build a community of creators so that people who have stories that need to be told, get out to the world. It connects people of all different walks of life.

What advice would you give to current students or to young people thinking of pursuing a Fine Arts degree?

DO IT! Try to not think about the stereotypes that are associated with Fine Arts degrees and careers. Put all your eggs in one basket because it’s worth being happy and learning something you genuinely are interested in. If your passion is there, then there is nothing stopping you for going for the gold. Also, don’t be afraid to change your major. I joined URI with as an Animal Science major, which I loved, but soon learned that Theatre was my passion and my future. It was a scary change for me but I have not regretted it a day since. Do what makes you happy and excited to wake up and go to class everyday.