Name: Melissa Cabrero
Nicknames: Melcab, melcabby, melcabby6, Elder Melissa, Abuela, Abuela Claudia
Hometown: White Plains, NY
Year: Junior
Major: Mass Communications with a minor in Theatre Performance
Her Campus: What is your involvement on campus?
Melissa Cabrero: I am currently a Resident Assistant for Upper Classmen but will be assigned to a Freshman Residence Hall for the 2016-2017 Academic year. I am also the President of the Harrington Theatre Arts Company for the 2015-2016 academic year. I have been heavily involved in HTAC ever since the Fall of my freshman year!
HC: What was your favorite HTAC show?
MC: That’s such a tough question! I like specific shows for different reasons. Into the Woods was my favorite cast to be a part of because the people in that cast are what made me love HTAC, and made me want to give back to the company. Noises Off! was my favorite show to act in because I got to play around with so many character choices, thanks to my fabulous co-directors. Urinetown was my favorite overall production because I have never felt more proud or gained more leadership experience than when I directed a show with some of my best friends!
HC: What is it like being on the HTAC board?
MC: Being on the board is quite easily the most stressful and rewarding experience I have had in theatre. Not only are you constantly scrutinized for any mistakes you make, but you also learn that there are decisions that will make some members either very happy or very angry. It has taught me that there will be many times that my decisions will not please everyone, and I have to accept that. However, despite these hardships, I have gained such valuable insight to what Theatre Administration looks like, what it’s like to lead a team of people who depend on you, and also have the ability to adapt to crisis situations and differing opinions. While college is great, you can’t learn these skills by just going to class!
HC: What is your favorite thing about HTAC?
MC: My favorite thing about HTAC is that it doesn’t matter if you’re all best friends or complete strangers… everyone involved in a production will do everything in their power to make sure ‘the show goes on’. That kind of passion and dedication isn’t found just anywhere, and it’s so refreshing to see young people my age so dedicated to projects that are bigger than themselves.
HC: Do you have any advice for students that want to get involved?
MC: I know how daunting it can be to get involved in an organization where everyone seems to know each other and be so close. My best advice is to let go of those fears or apprehensions! Go out of your comfort zone! I never would have met my best friends that will probably be at my wedding if I didn’t take the chance and stuck through those first couple of awkward encounters. I promise that you’re not the only one who has gone through those emotions. If group members are anything like that the members of HTAC, they want to get to know you and help you find your way!
HC: Anything else you want to say…?
MC: I heavily considered transferring my freshman year. As soon as I found my family with HTAC, my mind was made. I knew I had a place where I belonged on campus. You might not get it your first try, but you will find your place and your people!!