Expect the unexpected @ SETC


“Expect the unexpected,” is what I learned at SETC Atlanta.


I decided to go this year just to experience SETC for the first time. It was a hard decision to make, because I am a junior and it seemed unwise for me to not do job contact or an audition of any kind. But God gave me peace about just going and seeing what it was like, taking workshops, and meeting theatre people from all over the country. When I got to Atlanta and to the hotel, the only thing I could say was, “man, thank God I didn’t try to do more.”

It was quite a sight. There were hundreds of people everywhere of every type bustling about with excited facial expressions, suitcases, and a contagious energy. I felt rather small, honestly. Coupled with that, however, was feeling incredibly blessed to be among a big group of people passionate about the same thing — theatre.
So, I mentioned “expect the unexpected” at SETC. What’s that about? Well, (this is where I would recommend a little more preparedness) I was wandering through the university/theatre school booths downstairs when I came to the Stella Adler Studio of Acting table. I got talking with the marketing associate, Ryan, and he gave me an application for their summer 2011 acting conservatory. I hadn’t auditioned for them or didn’t really have any ambition to go to NY this summer, but completely ecstatic, I did it anyway. I ran back to the table after filling it out, gave him my headshot and resume (I JUST printed it off. Again, God was gracious in this instance, so just in case — PREPARE [unlike me :)]) and he promised to call me with an interview time later.
Throughout the weekend, I kept running into him randomly. Our conversations usually went something like this:

“Hey Ryan!”

“Hey, um, Stephanie? Right?”

“Yeah, that’s right.”

“Good to see ya!”

And then one day, I began,

“So, have you decided on interview times yet?”

He responded, “Yes, sorry I’ve been meaning to get back to you. We’ll sign you up for the first slot, Saturday at 6pm.”

Saturday at 6pm. Yeah, I was nervous. But so excited! I really didn’t know where this was all going. I knew that it was pretty unlikely I would get in, but I went along with it, and the next step was Saturday at 6.

The interview went pretty well. It wasn’t outstanding. In fact, I kind of felt like I was putting them to sleep 🙂 But after a long, stressful weekend for everyone, it was understandable.
In conclusion, a week later, I got a call from Ryan with an acceptance into their summer program. I couldn’t believe it! God definitely used this to teach me to expect the unexpected and be prepared for the unexpected. So, even if you’re going to SETC to experience it for the first time, don’t hesitate to come over prepared and with an open heart to meet lots of people. Trust God, and you never know what He will do.

SB