Full Name:
Haley Addison Polak
Major/Year:
Theatre and Dance - Senior
Favorite class in Theatre & Dance and why:
I probably couldn't choose just one favorite. I managed to have a different teacher for each new class I took, in order to gain a little from everyone. I feel like we have amazing teachers at UT, and doing that was one of the best things I could have done. They have all helped me to grow and improve in different ways.
Favorite thing about Austin:
Everything! There is always so much to do and see. I have lived here three years now and still feel like I've seen only a little! Between shopping, dining, or outdoors, you can always find something you enjoy doing. Austin is never boring, that's what I love most about it! One place, though, when I get stressed or sad that I love going to is Toy Joy; it always brightens my day!
Favorite place to study:
I love to study in coffee shops. My iPod and a continuous cup of coffee can keep me studying for hours! Some of the more mellow/study oriented ones are my favorite, like Metro, JP's Java, or Spider House. The nice thing is these are near campus, and since I lived on campus for the 1st two years, they were easy to get to. Spider House is also a great place to go and hang out with friends.
Brief biography:
All of my life I've been a performer. I tried everything from track, to softball, to dance, to band, and cheerleading. Drama is what always stuck. I was acting and performing for the school since I was in 6th grade and haven't stopped since. My parents are a strong inspiration to me and have always encouraged me to "just do what I love!" And so I have. I am originally from Pearland, TX, and I came to UT just to visit one weekend with a friend and loved it. I loved the city, the school, I loved it all! That weekend showed me exactly where I wanted to go for college. My focus at UT is acting while my concentration is scene design. I have taken part in main stage shows such as the world premiere of The Marriage of Miss Hollywood and King Neptune, as well as the student produced Lab Theater productions Autobahn and Modern Love. I studied abroad last summer in London (which I highly recommend). Studying abroad was one of the best decisions I've ever made! I am now a senior and currently work at the front desk in the office of the Winship building, which has been so much fun!
Current projects/research/interests:
I took a beginners' fencing class this past semester and then won first place for women's in the beginner's tournament. I plan to take the intermediate class next semester as well. Also, I am taking a scene painting class which helps paint all the scenery and backdrops for the main stage shows in the fall. This class will help us put together a great portfolio by the end of the semester. I am also enrolled in the Acting for Camera class in the fall, which I hope to gain a lot from.
