A decorated UNCSA graduation cap. / Photo: Wayne Reich
Home > Commencement > 2023 graduates reflect on UNCSA training, share future plans
2023 graduates reflect on UNCSA training, share future plans
A Pakistani filmmaker making his mark through art, a single mother whose goal of completing
her graduate degree is finally realized and a scenic designer fascinated by what she
calls “the design within the design” are among the hundreds of UNCSA University graduates
set to be honored Saturday, May 6 at University Commencement.
These Fighting Pickles have accomplished a lot during their time at UNCSA — using
their training to sharpen their crafts and set their careers in motion. Read more about each student’s journey below.
Originally interested in becoming a scene designer, Scenic Technology student Emmy
Babyak became fascinated instead by what she calls “the design within the design,”
leading her to pursue a degree in scenic technology.
In anticipation of commencement, Babyak reflects on her time at UNCSA and some of
the lessons she learned along the way before moving to Santa Fe, NM to become Associate
Technical Director at Meow Wolf.
Nearly 30 years after her graduate school journey ended due to financial burden, pianist
and 2023 graduate Lauren Coplan will check 'Master of Music' off her bucket list thanks
to the support of generous donors.
Ahead of Commencement, she reflects on her beautiful, exhausting, and meaningful time
as a Fighting Pickle.
Four years ago, Rohit Lila Ram arrived at UNCSA from Karachi, Pakistan, carrying only
two suitcases. On Saturday, May 6, 2023, he will graduate with a B.F.A. in Filmmaking
with a concentration in Producing and a minor in Arts Entrepreneurship. In addition
to his diploma, Lila Ram departs from UNCSA with both a C.V. teeming with projects,
positions and accolades and an enormous community of mentors, friends and colleagues.
School of Drama grad Alyssa James' childhood passion led her to UNCSA, where she spent
the four years honing her creativity and craft, facing her fears and learning to believe
in herself. “I never thought this is where my life would have taken me,” she says, beaming. “I’m
just so endlessly grateful.”
Learn more about what she describes as a surreal experience studying and growing at
UNCSA.
Our commencement site for the most up-to-date information about the 2023 High School
and University Commencement Ceremonies — including parking, tickets, ceremony location
and time information and more!
