Andrea is currently pursuing a performance career in the Twin Cities.  She has worked with various theatres including the Guthrie, Bloomington Civic Theatre, and the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres where she most recently was in a four women show "Respect: A Musical Journey of Women."  She works as a free-lance choreographer and is also the author of BEYOND TALENT, a practical guide for starting and sustaining a performance career.  "Beyond Talent: A Handbook for University of Minnesota Performers" is available for purchase at the Coffman Memorial Union Bookstore on the East Bank, U of M campus.  Visit www.Beyond-Talent.com for more on Andrea and to view sample pages from her book, which is an excellent resource for anyone interested in a performance career.

THOUGHTS ON IDIM…

IDIM helped me prepare for the real world because it required that I take control of my own education.  Once you are out of school, you don't have anyone to tell you what you need to do next. IDIM helped transition me into the mind set that I needed to start directing myself.

IDIM was a great fit for me because I want to pursue a career in Musical Theatre and the University doesn't currently offer a specific program for that.  I was able to take classes in Music, Theatre, and Dance. 

Employers so far have viewed my degree as interesting and exciting.  Many people are also a bit confused as to what it is, but it is a great chance to talk a little about myself when I explain it to them.

ADVICE…

You have to be willing to be very organized and persistent.  You need to do some serious thinking about what you want to do in your future, and tailor your program specifically to that.  Once you get going, stick with it even if people discourage you or things get tough.  It pays off in the end and you'll feel proud when you graduate with a one-of-a-kind education.