From producing films as a Cal State Fullerton student to becoming a full-time actor for ReelShort, a streaming app that specializes in short-form, soap opera-like content, alum Samantha Drews turned her college experience studying cinema and television arts into a multifaceted career that includes acting, producing and screenwriting.
As a student, Drews originally wanted to be behind the camera. She learned production through courses taught by cinema and television arts professor Mun Chee Yong and lecturer David Morgasen. She eventually became a teaching assistant and honed her skills as an actor, screenwriter and producer while helping other students. After graduation, Drews pursued acting with encouragement from faculty.
“I learned a lot of valuable skills there, things that I wouldn’t have known now, that I can talk about with people on set,” Drews said.
After graduating from CSUF in 2021, Drews worked as a production and post-production intern for Disney Television Studios’ former production unit ABC Signature. She eventually landed a role as a full-time actor for ReelShort. Her notable shorts include “Mommy Don’t Cry, Daddy Is Sorry” and “Accidental Triplets with the Billionaire.”
Drews encourages students to pursue what they are passionate about.
“If you want something, go for it and take that leap,” Drews said. “As a student, I would have told myself to just take a leap a little bit more, because eventually everything works out.”