No matter what your life plans or career path, the arts help you to develop the skills you need to succeed: Communication and relational skills. Confidence and the ability to think on your feet. Creative thinking and physical dexterity. Critical thinking and public speaking. At Pitt-Johnstown, you can experience the arts and make progress toward your goal, whether it's becoming an Author, Composer, Actor, or Trailer Editor.
Paula M. (Gormish) Carlson '01 took an unexpected path at Pitt-Johnstown, beginning in chemistry and biology before finding her way to Creative Writing and Political Science. Her UPJ experience included a play performed at Golgonooza, study abroad in Australia and mentors who encouraged her to explore new possibilities. Read more about Paula's story »
"When I was a kid I always wanted to go to film school,” he said, noting he’s been filmmaking and writing since he was eight years old. “I was grateful to get into UPJ – my father and sister went there – and I had the mentality that I wanted to do something creative. I was an undercover artist as an education major." Tom Getty graduated from Pitt-Johnstown with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications and is now a Filmmaker and Author, known for independent films "Rising Fear" (2016) and "Emulation" (2010). Today Tom is a Trailer Editor & Composer. Read more about Tom's story »
After earning their Bachelor of Arts in Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft, Erin went on to earn their Master's degree in Teaching, English Literature and Language Arts. Today, Erin works as a Family Literacy Instructor for Literacy Pittsburgh. Read more about Theatre Arts »
Madison Epply graduated from Pitt-Johnstown with Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications and Theatre Arts. Since then, Madison has performed professionally at Open Stage in their Dolly Parton music revue "Jolene" as well as several of their cabarets. Additionally, she has performed with Gamut Theatre Group in their production of "Thistle & Salt: The Ireland of J.M. Synge" and Keystone Theatrics' production of "Cinderella.” Madison now serves as an Earned Media Team Coach at WebFX. Read more about Theatre Arts »
