This week we are featuring a strong, independent woman whose involvement with a production on campus is both admirable and impressive. Meet Sophia, HCers!
Name: Sophia Maria Rodriguez
Year in School: Sophomore
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio
Major: Applied developmental psychology
Her Campus: Hey girl! Thanks for interviewing with HC. Don’t worry, we’ll start with the easy questions. What activities are you involved in on campus?
Sophia: I have been a part of University of Pittsburgh theatre arts since my first semester here at Pitt. I am also enrolled in the National Society of Leadership and Success.
HC: Tell me about your role in Pitt’s production of Good Kids, a play that presents the story of the Steubenville rape case and creates awareness of sexual assault issues on college campuses.
Sophia: I am understudying all the women characters in Good Kids, and have been also assistant directing. As an understudy I have felt the need to still build the connection with the ensemble that is needed during a production. During the first week of rehearsals where the directors focused on building a strong ensemble, I participated in most of the activities. I still join circle ball or other things the cast does so I can remain present and aware of their energy that I try to treat as a tangible thing. As an assistant director I have observed and worked with the directors during rehearsals to develop the amazing production we now get to share with our community.
HC: What do you think the most important takeaway from the show should be for an audience member?
Sophia: I think the most important thing to take away is that sexual assault is a very big issue in our society and we are all in some way a part of the circumstances built when these things happen. I know that if an audience member is not aware of the seriousness of this kind of situation they will after seeing the show. The cast brings the story and voices of society’s reactions and involvement to life and provides so much truth as an ensemble.
HC: Thank you for sharing that with us. Hopefully our readers will get a chance to catch the show! On a lighter note, if you could describe yourself as a Disney character, who would it be?
Sophia: I would describe myself as Mulan; she trusts in herself and is brave, selfless, and strong. I think we both hold our ground and try not to let others bring us down. I also dig her fashion choices.
HC: Where do you want to be in 10 years?
Sophia: I would like to be in a comfortable place and probably living in Los Angeles. I would love to have a successful acting career. I will act as much as possible while being an Occupational Therapist. I hope I will still have strong relationships with my family and friends.
HC: If you could give any advice to incoming college freshmen, what would it be?
Sophia: This is a time where your instincts are very important. You are going to be setting up you path for life during this time and you should always trust in what you want and believe. Everything that is important to you is important in your time here. Make sure you do your homework and study, because it is needed. Also, still have fun and take advantage of the environment the campus offers and all the free stuff they give you freshman year.
HC: Are you excited for Thanksgiving break?
Sophia: Yes!
HC: Any particular reason?
Sophia: I am going to visit my brother in Los Angeles, California. My mom will also be meeting me there so we can spend Thanksgiving together. I am going to be warm and I get to relax and just have fun with my family and friends out there. I also am going to a Chance the Rapper concert, so that is going to be awesome.
HC: That sounds amazing! So, last but not least, what is a fun fact about yourself that not that many people know?
Sophia: I got a mad sense of rhythm and a mad sense of taste!
Photo credit: Campus Celeb