We’re excited to share the second installment of our photo collaboration and interview series! A heartfelt thank you to The Realest Surrealist—a talented photographer and one of AWP’s own Adult Acting Students—for generously lending her time, vision, and creativity to this project.
In this candid conversation, we delve into topics ranging from mental health to personal and artistic challenges, and explore the passions and practices that bring these performers peace. While their goals may vary, one thing unites them: their shared love for acting. We are grateful for their honesty and vulnerability in this discussion.
Featured in the photos are AWP students Aaron Arquimedes, Ava Harrison, Ethan Nguyen Duy Hong, Isabelle Alonso, Sophia Joss, and Zane Kunter. In this blog, we hear from Ava Harrison (AWP student for 6 weeks at the time of the interview), Sophia Joss (AWP student for 5 years), and Aaron Arquimedes (AWP student for 3 years).
HOW DO YOU FEEL ACTING HAS CHANGED YOUR OUTLOOK LIFE?
Acting has introduced me to knew characters and point of views that have made me realize what is going on around me more.
-Ava Harrison
I feel like it has made me more empathetic and in touch with my emotions. I feel like after putting myself in a characters shoes I put myself in others shoes more in real life too.
-Sophia Joss
It’s connected me more with people and helped me with my social anxiety and understanding peoples emotions.
-Aaron Arquimedes
HOW HAS AWP IMPACTED YOUR LIFE?
AWP has given me a place to learn acting and singing skills on a deeper level.
-Ava Harrison
AWP has given me a second home and I have met so many life-long friends through AWP. It has also helped boost my career in so many ways
-Sophia Joss
AWP has given me a family that I can cherish for the rest of my life and also has helped me grow as an actor and as a human being!
-Aaron Arquimedes
Photos: Zane Kunter, Sophia Joss, Ethan Nguyen Duy Hong
WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU KNEW YOU COULD NOT FAIL?
I would be the lead in a Broadway performance and or be in a TV show.
-Ava Harrison
I would help others and share my gift with those who need help cause if I can’t fail then they can’t fail either!!
-Aaron Arquimedes
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED ABOUT YOURSELF THIS YEAR?
I enjoy hearing what my friends have to say and trying to help them through it.
-Ava Harrison
I feel like every year I gain more confidence in myself.
-Sophia Joss
I’ve learned that it’s ok to be a child at heart even though you're an adult, it’s never negative to keep that child like spirit with you and share it with the world!
-Aaron Arquimedes
WHAT NEGATIVE SELF TALK DO YOU STRUGGLE WITH?
I often doubt my singing abilities. I compare myself to the other beautiful voices around me and feel bad about my own.
-Ava Harrison
Always feeling like I’m not good enough.
-Sophia Joss
I’m not man enough, I’m not good enough as an actor, and that my personality is weird and I’m too childish.
-Aaron Arquimedes
NOTE: The AWP Team fully believes that weird is good, different is beautiful and YOU ARE ENOUGH!
HOW DO YOU ACTIVELY TRY TO ACHIEVE PERSONAL GROWTH?
I try and stay positive and don't give in to negativity.
-Ava Harrison
I always think about how my actions affect others and make decisions from that to grow as a person.
-Sophia Joss
I go to therapy and journal!
-Aaron Arquimedes
WHAT IS ONE THING PEOPLE MISUNDERSTAND ABOUT YOU?
People often think that I am weak and can't stand up for myself
-Ava Harrison
My anxiety, for example even though I’m really nice when I say no I mean it, I will say no and people will push and push and take my kindness for granted but I think they misunderstand how anxious I am and how hard it is for me to say no.
-Aaron Arquimedes
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE AS AN ACTOR?
My biggest challenge in acting is typecasting myself. I tend to try out for the role that would normally suit me and don't let myself try new things.
-Ava Harrison
It can be scary to try new things and make big choices but I’m learning to be confident with my choices and just go full out.
-Sophia Joss
Not playing the compare game, being ok with the journey taking longer than others, and confidence in my self worth and ability as an actor!
-Aaron Arquimedes
WHO IS YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE AND WHY?
Personally my biggest influences are my parents because they do so much for me and are amazing and I love them. But acting wise I would probably say I'm most influenced by Zendaya or Sofia Wylie because neither of them have let their fame take away their true personality and they still have that childlike life view.
-Ava Harrison
My sister because she isn’t afraid to be herself and even if others call her names she doesn’t let it affect her but she still pushes forward and works hard!
-Aaron Arquimedes
HOW DO YOU PRACTICE SELF CARE?
I take time doing my hair after wash days. I also try and read a lot to relax.
-Ava Harrison
I try to meditate and just take a second for myself when I get too stressed. Acting is also a great outlet for me.
-Sophia Joss
I go to the gym or take long walks alone!
-Aaron Arquimedes
WHAT ARE YOU PROUDEST OF?
I'm proudest of being seen as a trustworthy friend.
-Ava Harrison
I’m proud of the person I am and how I treat others.
-Sophia Joss
Myself this year in terms of Getting better at talking to strangers although my social anxiety can get really bad I always push myself to be better!
-Aaron Arquimedes
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST GUILTY PLEASURE?
I love rewatching Disney channel TV shows!
-Ava Harrison
Watching Love Island
-Sophia Joss
Eating junk food 🙈
-Aaron Arquimedes
Thank you for taking a glimpse into the world of these young artists and The Realest Surrealist!
zv
great post
The yoga pose Birds of Paradise is an advanced and energizing stretch that combines balance, strength, and flexibility. To perform this pose, you begin in a standing position, then lift one leg while holding it with both hands, extending the leg outward while keeping your torso upright. This yoga pose Birds of Paradise opens the hips, stretches the hamstrings, and strengthens the core and legs. It's a great way to challenge your balance and build flexibility while bringing a sense of calm and focus to your practice. Perfect for those looking to deepen their yoga journey, this pose offers both physical and mental benefits
For passengers flying with Spirit Airlines from José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) in Medellín, Colombia, understanding the layout and operations of the Spirit Airlines MDE Terminal is crucial for a smooth travel experience. Whether you're heading on an international adventure or a domestic trip, knowing what to expect can save you time and reduce stress.
Check-in and Boarding at the Spirit Airlines MDE TerminalWhen traveling with Spirit Airlines from MDE, it’s important to arrive at least three hours before your international flight. This allows ample time for check-in, security, and immigration procedures. Spirit Airlines MDE Terminal features check-in counters as well as self-service kiosks for quicker and more efficient check-in. Be sure to have your documents ready to ensure a…
Looking for direct flights from Austin to Europe. Traveling to Europe from Austin just got easier, thanks to direct flight options that save you time and hassle. Whether you're headed to explore the vibrant cities of Western Europe or the charming destinations in Eastern Europe, booking a direct flight ensures a smooth and quick journey. In this guide, we’ll explore the best options for direct flights from Austin to Europe, offering you all the information you need for a stress-free travel experience.