"At first I didn’t know how I would end up in Los Angeles, CA, reaching for the stars along with the rest of the flock- but somehow, I managed to pull it off with just a dream, a chance, my family and some faith. At first, I didn’t know it was possible, until this overwhelming feeling in my 17 yr old gut told me to “go for it”. A feeling I will forever be grateful for, because I know, at least in the pit of me, that I’m willing to give myself a shot. 

It’s the end of senior year in high school and I have no idea which college I’m going to attend. I legit told myself I can't go to ‘this’ college because I’ll know way too many people there and I can’t go to ‘that’ college because I sure don’t have the grades for it. All I cared about were the arts and theatre. I eventually went on a hunt for the perfect college for that only to find, The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in LA. Auditions in Washington, D.C., in about two weeks, hell yeah, I had a shot! From then on, the rest is literally History. I auditioned with two contrasting monologues and was accepted on the spot. I seriously cried tears of joy, I’ve never been more grateful in my life. I’ll never forget, the woman in the audition room asked me to tell her a secret. So, I told her that if I wasn’t getting accepted into AADA, then I don’t know what I would have done or where I would have gone. It’s crazy because, where I come from, it can be a bubble. A very comfortable, easy bubble. A bubble I wanted to pop so bad- a bubble I was dying to break free from and I did. I was given a chance and that’s all I can really ask for. 

Because of that chance, I was able to have the best time of my life at AADA, and create memories and relationships I’ll cherish forever. I was able to learn things I never thought of. I was able to improve and grow and get accepted back and graduate. I was able to succeed. I still am. It’s a constant grind, a constant battle within yourself- because if you don’t believe in yourself, then there’s some trouble. Because of that chance I am able to remain here, in a city I love, doing what I love to do. Had I not been given a chance, had I moved to New York instead, had I stayed in MD, I don’t know what could have happened. I’m not so sure If I’d be this happy, but who knows. If I never decided to follow my dreams, I never would have known of all the amazing opportunities out in the world. I never would have just “gone for it,” and that’s a scary thought." - @yeahhslim

“I’m currently pursuing my music career 24/7. I picked up a side gig serving at Joe’s Pub (a cool dinner/performance art theatre) that’ll take some of my time. If I’m not working on music, I am modeling or something acting-related, and that is my passion. To be able to live the dream even though I haven’t reached my heights yet. 

I actually enjoy taking the day off. I’ve been watching movies lately, studying performances, and hanging with my inner circle. I can’t forget to mention I love eating food! Really enjoying the company of myself and keeping my energy reserved. Creating, creating, creating. Being healthy, working on staying disciplined in the gym. 

Having to start from the bottom has been a roadblock I’ve faced and am still facing. It’s hard to go from living with your parents, to a new city, then college, then no college, no home, no job.. but a dream. Sacrificing to pursue something that you’ve always wanted. It hasn’t stopped me- just a hurdle that you have to jump over to get to the finish line.

My future is so unknown, every day i’m surprised by how the day went - you know? I see myself as universal- crossing the music, film and modeling industry. Performing all over, inspiring the youth, finally having a “name” for myself and reaping the finances from my work. Whatever comes with the lifestyle, if it’s awards, fans, the opportunities… I see myself being able to attain the success that came from all the hard work and energy my team and I created. 

My art makes me different. My sound, the image, the content, really honing in to the distinctiveness within my voice and my hair! Being able to perform, record, song-write, direct, act, model, dance... all the entertainment stuff, it really sets me apart from your average internet overnight sensation. I’m longevity. Seriously though. And I say that because having the work ethic really sets you apart from the rest.”

"I started working when I was fifteen and somehow accumulated five jobs at once. This is the first time in five years I have taken a break. With my new found free time I like to work on myself and relax. I try to work on my music as much as possible. A typical day off consists of exercise, cleaning, or time with friends. I've had my fair share of struggles, along with my successes. A few years back I got very sick and lost most of my mobility. I had to relearn how to walk. I regained my strength, and restructured things in my life. It's gonna be something I struggle with throughout my life, but now I know how to manage my health. I take care of me, so I can live a happy life doing what I love! What makes me different is the way I think. I have embraced me. In the past I never felt that I really fit in anywhere. Now you can find me using my talents and juggling multiple activities.” - @inthelandoflala