Meet Justin Krivda. A third year from Michigan, one could say Justin is a man of many trades and inspirational words. Starring in his seventh University Theater play, Krivda says acting in college has been “a pretty cool experience because I acted in High School and was unsure whether I would continue at UChicago.”
Aside from acting with UT, Krivda is an avid member of Ransom Notes, one of the University’s leading A cappella groups. Although he has been singing since he was a young boy, Justin rediscovered his passion for singing in college. After traveling around the city and performing at various high schools during winter break, Krivda is excited about the prospect of going to California with Ransom Notes this spring break to record a CD.
“Everyone is really diverse. I am a Physics and English double major, but we really have kids majoring in just about everything.” Justin loves the diversity of both UT and Ransom Notes, explaining that despite the members’ academic differences, he truly feels that he belongs in both groups.
Aside from belting it out on stage and memorizing lines for his upcoming play, Krivda has recently found a new hobby. Similar to Rihanna finding love in a hopeless place, Justin picked up rapping his first year when unfortunate circumstances found him living in Harper Library for a month.
“It was a low point in my life and I definitely would not suggest it to anyone else,” explained Krivda about his month-long stay in Harper. Using his MacBook and an empty study room, Justin recorded his raps, which derived from his poetry and life stories. “Luckily I have a real microphone now, so it’s easier to record,” said Krivda. “Making music is cool.”
When he isn’t practicing for upcoming shows or rapping about his life struggles, Justin can be found chalking inspirational words on the quad. “Dream.Believe.Smile”, Krivda’s RSO, aims to ensure everyone has a better day. Formed after Krivda saw an overwhelming number of students walking with their heads down or simply unexcited to go to class, D.B.S. reminds UC students that being happy is the key to success. Seen drawing sunflowers and encouraging words on the quad, people would question Krivda’s motives. “I would just tell them I’m trying to cheer people up!”
Krivda wants to share his idea of success with UChicago students. “At the end of the day, success is looking back at your life and being proud of yourself for accomplishing something, anything.” Dream.Believe.Smile. is based on this idea along with the idea that happiness comes from smiling.
“We have a very simple mission: Knowing that we have the ability to make people smile and have a better day,” said Krivda. “We help people achieve what they want by helping people smile.”
Justin Krivda, like many other people, has experienced low points throughout his life. Undoubtedly, he has bad days just like everyone else. However, by following his passions and spreading words of encouragement to other students, he reminds himself that happiness is key.
“To live a happy and fulfilling life, you must float, as a leaf, through the ups and downs, the goods and bads, and just keep floating.”