Nubci Her, a first-generation Hmong student, has felt the high expectations of her immigrant parents to become a doctor or lawyer someday. But she decided to pursue her passion for acting.

When Her got to play Mrs. Greer, a french maid in the “Annie Jr” play in her sixth grade production, she realized that acting is something she wanted to pursue.

“I got to play Mrs. Greer. That was so cool, and I got to be in a show. I got to see what it was like to be on stage,” Her said. 

She took a drama class freshman year of high school and it allowed her to explore her interest for acting because she got to learn about storytelling and improv, which she found enjoyable.She auditioned for “Descendants the Musical” during her senior year and got the role of the evil queen.

“I kept doubting myself and wouldn’t audition because I was scared of being judged. I finally decided to audition and got in. The experience felt surreal,” Her said. “After my performance, the amount of people that would come up to talk and take pictures with me made me proud of myself. Overall, it was a truly wonderful experience and something I continue to cherish.”.

Her treasures the experiences she had in school which is why she majored in acting at Fresno State.

“At first I honestly didn’t think that it was something I wanted to pursue. I thought it was a hobby that I enjoy. In fifth grade, my teacher had us put on a small play and after school she pulled me aside to tell me that I’m a talented actor,” Her said. “Since then, I followed her advice and my passion continues to grow for acting.”.

Why Fresno State?

“I chose it because it’s closer to home and more convenient,” Her said. “After I graduate, I might go to LA for grad school for acting.”

Her also had some valuable advice for students.

“Don’t be afraid to test your limits. Don’t be afraid to try something new and open yourself up. There’s always a group that is accepting of you,” Her said. 

The constant pressures of college, life, and work can be overwhelming, Her said. It’s important to be yourself, and as the next generation, anything you do will be applied to the next, she said

Her is currently working with the student-run Experimental Theatre Company on campus. She is in a show called “Macbitches,” which is a play that mirrors “Mean Girls,” where a freshman gets the lead role and plays Lady Macbeth stepping on the toes of the upper-level students. The play will run April 19 through 21.

“I just think that working in theater, building connections with people, learning something new are truly the best moments you can take away from working in shows,” Her said. 

Her will also get experience as stage manager in an upcoming play on campus called “Sanctuary City,” about two teenagers brought to America to become each other’s sanctuary from harsh circumstances. The show starts March 21.

“It’s a nice experience,” Her said. “This is my first time stage managing. I’m still learning.”