How Drama and Folklorico Changed My Life

By Brandon Carrillo, 10th Grader

I started off as a regular kid, just going through the motions like any other. I wasn’t exactly shy, but I never felt like I had something unique that set me apart. Then one day, some friends invited me to join a club they were part of. It wasn’t a big deal to me at first—I didn’t have any experience with what they were doing, but they made it sound exciting. They said it was welcoming and fun, and as I got involved, I found that they were right.

That club was the Drama and Folklorico Club. It didn’t take long for me to realize this was a different kind of experience. At first, I was nervous and unsure of myself. I’d never been on a stage, and dancing was completely out of my comfort zone. But the people in the club were incredibly supportive, and every time I joined them for rehearsals, I felt a bit braver, a bit more ready to try new things.

Eventually, I became more than just another member. I wanted to help the group, not only by dancing but by supporting others. I started to speak up, making sure everyone was ready for our performances. I learned what it meant to be reliable, to be someone others could count on. I wasn’t just following anymore—I was taking the lead.

After a year, I decided to join a smaller group within the club. I was nervous because I knew this was going to be a more intense commitment, but I also knew it would be a chance to push myself even further. And I was right. We traveled to places I’d never thought about going, meeting people from all kinds of backgrounds. Every place we went, every person we met, added something to my experience. It was more than just performing; it was about connecting with others through our shared passion.

These experiences left me with memories I’ll hold onto forever, but even more than that, they gave me life skills that will stay with me. I’m not the shy kid I used to be. I have the confidence now to take on whatever comes my way. Drama and Folklorico taught me how to express myself and believe in what I have to offer, and I know that this is only the beginning.

For anyone who feels like they’re “just another kid,” all I can say is don’t be afraid to try something new. You might just find, like I did, that you’re a lot stronger and more capable than you ever thought possible.