What is one activity you're interested in being involved in when you get to college , and why?

One activity I am definitely interested in being involved with when I get to college is being part of a theatre troupe as a backstage crew member. Although I aspire to major in Computing Securities or Computer Science, a big part of what motivates me lies in my place at the table when it comes to managing shows and events behind the scenes.

My first experience with Stage Crew at Great Neck South High started when I was a sophomore, and helped paint the set for a play called The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. When junior year came rolling around, I decided I need to do more with myself and not only socialize more, but also physically work harder. I was very, very unhappy with the way I had spent my summer, doing nothing (consequentially becoming an insomniac for 2 months).

The very first day I walked in to apply myself as a member of stage crew, I was instantly thrust into the middle of everything. And I was THRILLED. I had just joined weeks before the big annual winter musical, and this time, it was the Sound of Music. I dedicated myself to countless hours after school, for weeks (even eating dinner on stage at times!) learning how to properly manage the rails, handle the props, and set up the equipment. Throughout the year, I went on to work the light board, the run crew, and even co-manage the stage crew during the mind-blowing opera (all sung in French!) of the Tales of Hoffman.

Nothing can ever compare to the amount of affection I have for my team and the good work we dedicate ourselves to. Through stage crew, I learned to appreciate the intricacies of backstage workings, realizing that what you see on stage is only the tip of the iceberg in terms the amount of stressful planning and practicing. From what I've experienced, I can say that Stage Crew is very much indeed the most overworked, underappreciated group. Although this is unfortunate, I do find some solace when credit is given to us at the end of an event. However, I know that the applause is only customary, that not many realize how great our work can be at times. Even then, I find myself not minding very much, because the team knows that our crew spirit creates a close bond that mitigates any upset feelings over audience apathy.

This balance of worth ethic and personal enjoyment is something I can only hope to find again when I begin anew at (hopefully!) the college of my choice. My one regret in the entirety of my high school career has been not applying myself earlier. I can't imagine what I would be like today if I had only put myself out there and applied sooner!!!

This senior year, I will have even more work to look forward to, as I interviewed for Crew Chief and was given the job, which entails active planning and managing. This will very much be a challenge given that my year is packed with all sorts of academic and college-related plans.

But hey. What's life without a challenge? :)