Bridgett Rayburn, a senior from Clay, is majoring in Theatre with a concentration in Performance while minoring in English. She is currently working as the director for The Big Bad Bullysaurus, a student-led production put on by Alpha Psi Omega at JSU.

When did you know that JSU was the right school for you?

One of the reasons why I decided on JSU was the fact that it seemed like a homely campus. I am a first-generation college student, and JSU helped me realize this was where I needed to be. My best friend was also a student here, so she helped me learn more about the school, solidifying my choice!

What are some benefits of your major?

Being in the world of theater, I have learned so much about human behavior and different personalities, and my major constantly helps me be more empathetic to the human experience. It allows me to see different perspectives and ways to go about certain situations.

What is a recent accomplishment about which you are proud?

I am currently directing one of the Main Stage shows, The Big Bad Bullysaurus, this semester, and it is a huge challenge and accomplishment that I am proud of.

What is your favorite thing about JSU?

The feeling of community is one of my favorite things about JSU. I believe we truly live up to our motto “The Friendliest Campus in the South” and it is my favorite feature of our school.

What clubs/organizations are you involved in?

I am a member of Phi Mu, which led me to being on the Panhellenic team for the past two years, and I am also the President of the theater fraternity, Alpha Psi Omega.

What is one way that you have grown during your time at JSU?

Since I came to JSU, I have definitely learned how to be a more efficient, loving leader while still being productive and positive.

What is your favorite course that you have taken?

My favorite course I have taken so far would be my Acting 1 class. It helped me decide to officially become a performance major, and it taught me a lot about myself and my drive to doing a good job.

What do you plan to do after you graduate?

After I graduate, I plan on either joining a traveling theater company for performance or production or continuing my education by getting my PhD in performance.

What is a fun fact about yourself?

One fun fact about me is I am obsessed with rubber ducks, and I currently have 15 of them glued to the dashboard of my car!

What advice do you have for first-year students?

I have two pieces of advice for first year students!

1. Don’t be afraid to do things out of your comfort zone because you can’t grow if you only do the same things your whole life; college is a time for trial and error. Failure is a part of life, and you should embrace your failures and learn from them. They could be a blessing in disguise.

2. Take advantage of what you are paying for! Use the REC Center, go to the library, go to sporting events. You are paying good money to be here – don’t waste it by not taking advantage of all the school has to offer!