With her position directing a play at Tracy High School, SMSU junior Morgan Benson is single-handedly defying the idea that theatre majors do not get jobs.

When a community member approached Benson about directing the first play at her former high school, she couldn’t say no. “The Nerd,” a play about a birthday party with unexpected twists, had its first rehearsal on Sept. 13.

Since getting the job, the production of the play has been going well. According to Benson, the theatre program at Tracy High School is showing signs of growth and the cast is very promising.

She explained that she knew she wanted to work in the theatre industry ever since she discovered in her middle school’s program that characters could not only entertain audiences, but teach them about life.

Although Benson is very passionate about her art, she waited two years to declare Theatre Arts as her major. Benson blames the stigma that theatre majors have trouble getting employed out of college for her hesitance. It is apparent now that she has overcome the stereotype.

“You do get jobs,” Benson said. “And its jobs that you love.”

Benson has lots of praise for the SMSU Theatre Department, saying they are open and genuine. She gives them credit for most of what she’s learned about people. She also encourages anyone who has even the slightest interest in theatre to join the program, as they accept all levels and majors.

“The biggest thing you learn in the theatre industry is to be kind,” Benson said.

To all the people who are hesitant about declaring their major, Benson encourages them to do what they love.

“Life is just too short not to do something you’re passionate about,” Benson said.