From Brooklyn Heights to Broadway: A Semester That Changed Everything

What did you choose Duke in New York: Creative Industries?

My interest in attending Duke in New York: Creative Industries mainly arose from the opportunity to complete an internship. It can be a challenge to find arts internships, so getting to complete one in New York was amazing. It gave me so much great perspective on the kinds of opportunities that are available in my industry. Even though I was mainly motivated by the chance to do an internship, I loved so many aspects of this program, and I felt that my experience was very well-rounded. 

How did your love for theater grow through your program? 

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As a theater person, I loved getting to see many shows during my time on Duke in New York: Creative Industries. As a class, we saw Sunset Boulevard and Oh, Mary on Broadway, as well as a few off-Broadway shows. Not only seeing these shows, but also discussing them with my cohort, was a fruitful experience. Everyone has a different background and brought a different perspective about each show to the table, which I found to be really valuable.

What was one of the most unforgettable shows you saw? 

Oh, Mary! by Cole Escola is one of the funniest and most singular plays to hit Broadway in years. Although this show didn't necessarily educate us about history, Escola's ridiculous, hilarious take on Mary Todd Lincoln created a night at the theater we'll never forget.

How has the program shaped your future plans?

I made many amazing connections with colleagues and alumni in New York during my DiNY semester. I’m hoping to keep those connections up in the future. I’m currently seeking a summer internship in New York. Because of Duke in New York, I know so much more about my industry and where to find opportunities. I also answered the lifelong question for myself of where I want to live after I finish my degree—the answer is 100% New York!

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What are some standout moments that make the semester extra special?  

Spending a semester in New York City allowed us to make fruitful connections with alumni while experiencing amazing works of art. We attended an invited dress of New York City Center's gala presentation of the musical Ragtime. The show was beautiful and moving, and we loved meeting with Ragtime's associate director, Duke alum Martavius Parrish!

Where were your favorite places to go in New York?

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We lived in the Brooklyn Heights neighborhood, which is such a gorgeous area of New York. I would often walk the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, which has gorgeous views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. I enjoyed visiting the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens – it was a great place to study (and it reminded me of the Duke Gardens!). Another great spot in Downtown Brooklyn is the New York Transit Museum, which has amazing artifacts from the history of the New York subway system. 

Who should consider the Duke in New York: Creative Industries program?  

I think this program is a great fit for enterprising students who want to pursue specific career interests. You have to have a go-getter attitude in order to secure an internship and make it into a fruitful experience. If you’re ambitious in your field and ready to take on living in a bustling city, this program is the perfect opportunity for you. Like many experiences in college, it’s really what you make of it, and if you put yourself out there, this experience can be wonderful.