All the World's a Stage

I love to perform. As a pre-schooler, I would prance around the house singing highlights from “The Little Mermaid” and dress up in ridiculous costumes… and I have never quite grown out of it. One summer day when I was nine years old, my mom looked out our front window to see me tap dancing on the street corner, a top hat full of spare change at my feet. My passion for performing has made the stage feel like home. I love the limelight. I love applause. But most of all, I love the challenge of transforming myself into someone new. It is so exciting to spend a couple hours as a character, viewing life experiences through another’s eyes.

Since I have been at BYU, I have not had the time to audition at any local theatre companies, and I changed my major from the arts to French teaching. I am very passionate about the French language, but I have missed acting a lot. So, to quench my thirst, I have devised this project for my trip:

I want to act French

I want to become immersed in French culture. I want to become familiar with the unique customs and mannerisms of the French people. I want my language ability to jump drastically as I spend time on the street, conversing with the locals. I don’t want anyone to look at me and think “American tourist... ugh."

Wouldn’t it be fun if an American family approached me and attempted to ask me for directions in French? I’d respond, “It’s okay. I’m American, too! I speak English.” And wouldn’t it be fun if that family walked away saying, “Wow. No idea that girl was American…”

I want to blend in.

I’m going to carry a little notebook around with me. When someone asks, “Where ARE you from?” or says, “You had me fooled!” I am going to make a tally mark in my book.

This is going to be the acting opportunity of a lifetime. But don’t say “good luck”—theatre folks say, “Break a leg.”

Why I'm going to Paris...

I am a third-year university student, and I am very pleased to be majoring in French. In the near future, I intend to teach high school. I am already excited to share my appreciation for French with my students! I am going on this three-month study abroad to Paris to immerse myself in the language and culture. I would not feel qualified to teach without experiencing what Paris has to offer.

My greatest pleasure is finding joy in the simple things. I love to explore, and I am certain that Paris will provide many adventures. I cannot wait to share what I find!