Name: Lena Menefee-Cook
Major: Performing Arts, Art & Design, and International Studies
Hometown: Prescott, Arizona
Planned Graduation Date: Spring 2021
What are you involved with here at ISU and beyond?
At Iowa State, I’ve been involved in ISU Theatre productions, the Writing and Media Center, Pi Delta Phi (French Honors Society), and new student orientations. Outside of ISU, I teach at Story Theater Company and participate in the Focal Theatre Lab new script series and productions.
What projects are you working on right now?
I am currently working on Of the Deep: Meditations Upon the Death of a Blue Whale as part of a creation team and as an assistant facilitator.
What is your favorite thing about your experiences at Iowa State?
Participating in theatre productions and attending KCACTF have definitely been the highlights of my ISU experience. In both cases, I had the opportunity to help create or explore strange and imaginative worlds and spend lots of time with old and new friends from the theatre department and beyond!
Why did you choose the Dept. of Music and Theatre at ISU?
I had seen several ISU Theatre productions and was excited by how varied and evocative the shows were. The members of the theatre faculty were also all so generous, passionate, and kind when I met them that I felt like ISU was a place where I would be welcomed and valued, as well as a place where I would be challenged to learn and grow as a student artist.
What are your interests beyond music and theatre?
I love making jewelry and other assorted art, listening to and writing music, and watching films & TV series with my friends and family!
What are your plans after graduation?
My plans are a little bit up in the air due to the pandemic, but I hope to pursue acting in theatre and/or film and continue teaching children’s theatre or communication.
Any words of wisdom for prospective students?
Take care of yourself, always introduce yourself to other students and professors even if it’s nerve-wracking, and participate in things that give you the opportunity to collaborate, have fun, and grow!