This week is Student Employee Appreciation Week and we’re highlighting three student employees who support the behind-the-scenes work at Texas Performing Arts. We’re inviting you to celebrate with us and learn more about their experience working at TPA.
Juno Adair
When Juno joined the Fabrication Studios as a student employee, Juno found something they can’t find anywhere else. They found a place where they could gain practical experience, and the opportunity to problem solve and think creatively.
As a student employee, Juno has developed hands-on skills that have prepared them for the real world of set design: welding, carpentry, scenic painting, drafting, and more. These skills were put to the test when they had the opportunity to build the “crow’s nest” for the Theatre Department’s production of Cabaret this past fall.
“I worked on the same piece for a few weeks and got to see it come together before my eyes. There’s a special moment when you see the piece you’ve been building onstage that you don’t get to experience with many other jobs.”
Juno’s experience in the Fabrication Studios has been transformative for both their time at UT and in preparing them for a professional career in technical direction post-graduation.
“Thank you for supporting the student programs at TPA! No class has prepared me for the workforce like working at TPA has.”
Frederick Richardson
When Frederick first joined the Education team, he was nervous. A Linguistics sophomore new to the arts, he wasn’t sure where his place would be. Frederick learned quickly that his role was integral to the many education programs at TPA.
This past fall, Frederick helped coordinate The Outsiders School Day Performance where 3,000 K-12 students across Central Texas attended their first Broadway performance at Bass Concert Hall. This experience allowed him to see his hard work come to life and exemplified his leadership skills.
“When doing more banal tasks, it’s easy to forget ‘the why’ of what we do. Seeing the faces of children who just got out of a performance, many of whom would not have had the chance to see it without this program, is a great reminder.”
Thanks to the support he experienced from the TPA team, Frederick’s initial hesitation has evolved to a feeling of belonging, not only at TPA, but in the arts.
“Thank you for supporting Texas Performing Arts student programs! Your support allows us to do what we love to do.”
Nguyen Tang
When Nguyen began working in the Ticket Office, she was not very confident in her English, making her nervous when communicating with patrons. During her four years at TPA, the Ticketing team gave her the support and resources she needed. Now, as a Student Supervisor, Nguyen uses her experience to support and train her fellow students, strengthening our team of student ticket sellers.
Nguyen’s experience has equipped her with the tools to support TPA patrons with confidence and ease. She recalls a phone call with a customer who struggled to access their tickets. With some patience, they figured it out together.
“When she thanked me and told me how much it meant to her, it really meant a lot to me too. Moments like that remind me why I enjoy this job and helping people.”
At TPA, Nguyen has grown both personally and professionally while developing the communication and leadership skills she needs to succeed after graduating this spring.
“Your generosity makes a big difference, and because of you, students like me have opportunities to learn, grow, and gain real-world experience.”
Thank you for being part of the experiences that make this learning and growth possible for our student employees. Interested in learning how you can support and stay connected to student programs and opportunities at Texas Performing Arts? Contact support@texasperformingarts.org or call 512.232.8567.