The UW–Madison School of Education offers academic excellence in areas spanning the arts, health, and education. We are a proud community of innovative leaders, creative thinkers, and fearless trailblazers. Our talented students are committed to making their college experience a meaningful journey that aligns with their interests and helps them achieve their future goals.
Following is a Q&A with Jenny Duarte Castillo, who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Theatre and Drama — as an Honors Acting Specialist — and Elementary Education and graduating in 2028.
Where are you from, and how did you become interested in pursuing a degree in this field? I am originally from Somerset, New Jersey, but my family moved to Green Bay, Wisconsin, about five years ago. I became interested in pursuing theatre because I have loved this art form since middle school. What began as a hobby quickly grew into a deep passion and something I could envision myself doing professionally. I was also drawn to Elementary Education because I have always felt strongly about giving back to the same community that helped ignite my dreams. Public education played a major role in shaping who I am today, and I hope to one day inspire young students to dream big and develop a love for the arts through my teaching.
How did you decide that you wanted to become a UW–Madison Badger? I decided I wanted to attend UW–Madison after touring campus during my junior year of high school and later enrolling in a two-week summer intensive called CAPE (College Access Program in Education) the summer before my senior year. During that program, I took a Theatre and Drama course with Dr. Baron Kelly, and I instantly fell in love with the creative environment, the campus, and the lifestyle in Madison. That experience made UW–Madison feel like home.
What has been your most meaningful experience with the Theatre and Drama program? One of my most meaningful experiences has been making my mainstage musical debut in University Theatre’s production of “Little Women.” My first performance at UW was in “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone,” which was incredibly impactful and affirmed that I was exactly where I was meant to be. Continuing to audition and eventually receiving the opportunity to play Beth in “Little Women” was a full-circle moment for me. Working alongside such talented cast members, directors, designers, crew members, and production staff on both productions was deeply inspiring and formative.
What class or professor has had the greatest impact on you, and why? The class that has had the greatest impact on me was Theatre 250: Fundamentals of Acting, with Quanda Johnson. This course pushed me far outside of my comfort zone and challenged me to be vulnerable, present, and truthful in my work. It was one of the first spaces where I truly felt encouraged to dig deep as both an artist and a person. I was incredibly inspired by my peers and by Professor Johnson’s dedication to fostering a supportive, rigorous, and inclusive learning environment.
What are your future goals or plans? After graduation, I plan to continue auditioning and pursuing performance opportunities in theatre, film, television, and commercials, as well as find an agency that aligns with my passions and values. Alongside performing, I hope to teach in drama programs, lead student workshops, and eventually assistant direct or choreograph a play or musical. I want to build a career that blends artistry, education, and community impact.
Anything else you value about the School of Education or your program that you’d like to share? As a student of color, I deeply value the emphasis the School of Education and the Theatre and Drama department place on representation, mentorship, and inclusive storytelling. Seeing faculty, staff, and peers who actively work to create space for diverse voices has made my experience incredibly affirming. I feel supported not only as an artist and student, but as a whole person.
Do you have any tips for students thinking about how to maximize their experience? My biggest piece of advice is to show up as your authentic self and not wait for the moment you feel like you “belong.” Belonging is something you actively create by taking up space, trusting your voice, and allowing yourself to grow. I would also encourage students to take advantage of as many opportunities as possible and to build relationships with the people behind the scenes who support your work. Learning about the lives and experiences of those around you can be just as impactful as what happens onstage or in the classroom.
Can you tell us about a time when an academic advisor helped you? A vivid example of this would be my experience working with Maame Adomako. She has been an incredibly supportive presence throughout my journey at UW–Madison. She guided me in selecting courses that would help me maximize my academic experience and encouraged me to apply for my first on-campus job as the Theatre and Drama department assistant — a role I still hold today! Through that position, I also became a Theatre student ambassador and assisted with department tours. Much of this growth and confidence I credit to Maame’s encouragement and belief in me.
Can you tell us about a time you connected with someone at the Career Center? While I am still early in my career exploration, I have begun utilizing campus resources to better understand how my academic interests connect to my future goals, particularly in combining performance and education.
Have you participated in any internship, work experience, research, or study abroad program? Although I have not yet participated in an internship, I am very excited to apply for the Teaching Artist Internship at Children’s Theater of Madison. I am also planning to apply for the UW Theatre study abroad program in London during the summer of my junior year, which I believe will be an incredible opportunity for artistic and personal growth.
Anything else that’s important to you that you’d like to share? Overall, my experience at UW–Madison has allowed me to grow into a more confident artist, educator, and leader. Being part of a department that challenges me creatively while also supporting my identity and goals has been truly meaningful.