From Classroom to Conference: Student Experiences at SETC

Q&A by Erin Marlow, Communications Specialist in the Office of the Dean of the College; Video produced by Ryan Broussard, Graduate Assistant in the Office of the Dean of the College.

In early March 2026, 12 students packed their portfolios, sharpened their pitches, and traveled to Tennessee to attend the Southeast Theatre Conference (SETC), one of the largest networks of theatre practitioners in the country. Made possible by the Campo Fund for Experiential Learning, the trip gave students four days to participate in design competitions and acting workshops, audition for competitive roles, and network with professionals in the field. Students seized every opportunity to showcase their work to an audience of industry experts and gained invaluable skills that will stay with them long after graduation.

Among those who traveled to SETC were two juniors who brought their work to the competition. Carly Galbreth, who is double-majoring in Theatre and Politics & International Affairs, entered her sound design from the department’s production of Failure: A Love Story. J.M. Stowers, a Psychology major with minors in Theatre and Dance, submitted his props design from The Tempest. The Dean’s Office spoke with both students about their experiences.

To learn more about funding opportunities for conference travel and undergraduate research, visit the URECA Center website.

What was it like arriving at SETC, and what were you most excited or nervous about going in?

Carly: This is my second time at SETC, so I felt comfortable arriving. I knew what was in store for me. I was very excited to see everyone’s designs, talk to people about my design, and meet industry professionals.

JM: Arriving at SETC was overstimulating at first. There were so many people and workshops and it was difficult to know where to start. I was most excited about the connections — getting to meet new people and be surrounded by a community of other passionate artists. I was most nervous about the Design Competition. I’m new to theatrical design, and having my art judged is always nerve-racking!

What is one thing you learned from the conference – whether a new skill, perspective, or piece of advice – that inspired you or shifted your thinking?

Carly: So much of a presentation is how you carry yourself. I found myself being so much more drawn to the presenters who were confident, kind, and positive. A little joy and optimism can go a long way.

JM: One thing I learned from the conference is to put myself out there and be bold when talking to people. The best conversation I had with a company was because I just went up to their table and started talking to them. It was frightening, but it led to a really amazing conversation, and I was proud of myself for having the courage to just do it! This moment shifted my thinking and encouraged me to be bolder in my approach to forming connections.

How do you see yourself applying what you learned at SETC to your work in the theatre program here, whether in upcoming productions or your day-to-day?

Carly: It’s always inspiring to see others’ creative work! I learned so much from seeing their research, process, and final products. Whether they will be explicitly in my designs or not, I’m not sure, but every piece of creative work I see inspires me and has the potential to influence my own. 

JM: A friend and I went to an incredible playwriting workshop at SETC that I have already applied to my work here at Wake. I’m new to playwriting, but the workshop helped me with where to start and how to structure a play successfully. After SETC, I used the tips from that workshop to write a new short play, and I’m very proud of what I created! In fact, I will be presenting it at a new play festival here at Wake later this semester!

Has attending SETC sparked any new project ideas or career goals? Where do you hope your work takes you next?

Carly: I got to talk to many professional companies I am potentially interested in working with. They told me about their programs and opportunities. Additionally, they gave me general industry advice, which was appreciated. One mentor I met connected me with a former student who lives in NYC. She is giving my name to electricians in the city, which could lead to summer gigs. I will be spending this summer in NYC working in theatre. I wouldn’t say it sparked any new project ideas or career goals, but it definitely encouraged what I’m already working on and aspiring towards.

JM: Attending SETC made me realize there are many opportunities for a professional career in theatre beyond just acting in a play. There were entertainment companies like Dollywood and Disney looking to hire folks, organizations that advocate for safe mental health practices in the theatre, and production companies. It showed me that even if I don’t choose a career onstage, there are countless other roles that theatre training can prepare you for. While I still hope to get a performance job after graduating from Wake, I am confident that the skills and connections I made at SETC have prepared me for that job search, and I walk into my future career with greater confidence than before.