From unexpected elective to a future in theater education

Maya Wylie discovered her passion for the arts by chance. She simply needed one more credit to qualify for financial aid, and after registering for a Stagecraft class at South Texas College, she quickly realized this is what she was meant to do.

“It was the most fun I’ve ever had,” she said. “That’s when I knew I needed to switch my major.”

Now, she is on track to graduate next spring with an associate degree in Drama.

Wylie was homeschooled her entire life and had never experienced a traditional school setting, so starting college felt intimidating at first.

“I came into college and I was terrified,” Wylie said. “But STC has been a safe place for me to start my college journey.”

Throughout her time at STC, she has built a strong community within the Theatre department. The relationships she has formed with both faculty members and fellow students have played a big role in shaping her experience.

“The support system that I built here has made a huge difference,” she said. “We really function like a team, and that motivates me to keep pushing myself.”

After graduating from STC, Wylie plans to attend the University of Houston to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Theatre Education, where she hopes to one day work in an elementary school teaching students about theater.

This interest in education stems from her work at a local community theater, The Players Studio, where she works as an elementary theater coach.

“I love watching the kids discover their passion on stage,” she said. “It’s the best part of my week.”

For incoming students, Wylie encourages them to keep going, even when things feel overwhelming in the beginning.

“Its not as scary as it seems. It takes a minute to get used to it, but once you find your rhythm, it’s completely doable and fun,” she said.

For more information on STC’s Drama program, visit southtexascollege.edu/academics/drama/.