Finding a true calling in theater
Student of the Week: Yoshi Ramirez
STC was the perfect place for me to start fresh. Here, every day here is a new adventure.
Yoshi Ramirez, 24, is pursuing an Associate of Arts Degree in Drama at STC and is set to graduate this December.
After initially majoring in Nursing, Ramirez realized her true calling was in the performing arts.
“I had been doing theater since sixth grade,” Ramirez said. “I went into nursing because it felt like the safe choice, but I realized I was doing it for the money not because I loved it.”
Her passion for drama reignited after reconnecting with her former high school theater teacher, who invited her to help with a production as an assistant director. That experience reminded her of how much she loved the stage.
“I loved working with the students and helping behind the scenes,” she said. “I told myself, if I’m doing this for free and enjoying it this much, I must really love it.”
Since switching majors, Ramirez has immersed herself in STC’s Drama program, learning every part of theater production from lighting and props to set design and stage coordination. She currently works as a theater department work-study employee, where she’s developed close relationships with staff and mentors.
“Here, every day here is a new adventure,” she said. “Everything I’ve learned, I owe to Robert De Hoyos, our Theater Support Services coordinator. He’s taught me so much about the technical side of theater.”
Outside of class, Ramirez serves as the prop master for STC’s upcoming production The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) a comedy that challenges her creativity as she helps design unique props, including stage-ready “fake pies.”
A mother to a 7-year-old son, Ramirez said her biggest motivation is showing him the importance of pursuing education and passion.
“I want him to see that even as a mom, I kept going,” she said. “Whatever he chooses to do, I want him to keep pushing forward and never stop.”
Long term, she dreams of directing her own productions and opening a theater company.
“STC was the perfect place for me to start fresh,” she said. “It gave me the flexibility and support I needed to reinvent myself and follow what I truly love.”