Love what you do

Reflecting on a college career that began in the middle of a pandemic, Gilberto Martinez said through the Drama Department at South Texas College he was able to foster an already deep passion for the stage. 

From working on some of STC’s most elaborate productions and showcasing his talent to visitors from schools across the nation, Martinez says his two years at the college were an experience that will stay with him as he moves on to pursue his bachelor’s degree in the fall.  

He is set to graduate this summer and is already accepted into the theatre program at the University of Texas in Austin. Martinez plans to earn his four-year degree in theater with an emphasis in design and technology and has his eye on working in big cities like New York and Chicago.

With a unique talent for theater production, as well as set and prop design, Martinez says he will always relish working on productions like Medea, an ancient Greek play which the STC Drama Department adapted by setting it in Aztec times.

“I wasn't so sure where I was going for school. I was not able to apply to as many schools as I wished since 2020 was a disaster for many. I chose STC because it was close to home and I saw a good opportunity,” Martinez said. “STC had many things to offer that allowed me to attend school without any financial hardships, which was extremely lifesaving. Aside from that, the theater program was perfect for me since I got the chance to get involved immediately. I felt welcomed because I was involving myself in what I love to do, which is the technical world of theatre.”

The Drama program at STC provides students with a foundation in sound theater practices and is catered to those seeking employment in the entertainment and media industries.

With an Associate of Arts Degree in Drama from STC, students attain the pre-professional foundation skills necessary to compete for entry-level positions as technicians or performers. In addition to careers in the field, graduates can also choose to pursue advanced degrees in related fields such as television, film, radio, industrial presentations, arts management and public relations.

In Martinez’s case, he also worked as a theater consultant for a local high school while juggling two jobs as a full-time student.

“One of the main things that motivates me to keep moving forward is my ambition to show my parents that I can make it in the real world,” Martinez said. “I love my parents dearly and they have been there for me throughout life. I would like to show them that their effort to make a life here in America was not a waste of time. I would like for them to see me graduate and succeed. It has always been a goal and dream to see them happy as I become the first in our family to attend and graduate from college.”