This is a series dedicated to highlighting the insights our students gained during their internships.
Name: Jessica Weyman, Department of Theatre
Internship: Pioneer Theatre Company
What responsibilities did you have as an intern?
As an intern I did office work, picked up actors from the airport, helped run auditions, crewed a show, and was cast in a show.
What new skills/knowledge did you gain from your internship?
I learned how a professional theatre is run and how different it is from theatre in school. I also got to experience theatre from every aspect, as cast, crew, and an office member. I learned just how much work and how many people it takes to put on a professional production.
What connections did you make and how do you think those connections may help you in your career?
The knowledge I gained and the contacts I made are going to be very helpful as I transition into working as an actor out of school. I met professionals from all over and all have been so helpful in giving insight into how this theatre business works. And it’s nice to know I can audition for Pioneer in the future and know practically everyone there.
What advice would you give other students who are interested in a similar internship?
The advice I’d give to anyone auditioning for this internship is be yourself! Also being someone people want to work with and someone who is excited to put in the work is crucial. It’s a lot of long hours and you have to be ready to make the commitment.
How did your internship compliment your arts education?
I think it’s a great opportunity that not many undergraduates get to have. No other undergraduate programs have a LORT-B theatre on campus and it’s a great way to create a relationship with a professional theatre before you even graduate.
