FROM UH TO THE SILVER SCREEN: SARAH CORTEZ STARS IN HER FIRST FEATURE FILM

Why did you choose the Kathrine G. McGovern College of the Arts? What drew you to the arts?

I’ve been drawn to the arts since I was a little girl. I have been performing on stage since I was three years old. In my senior year of high school, we went to UIL and our performance, of which we were extremely proud, was judged by Carolyn Boone. She tore us to pieces. It was shocking. But everything she said… she was right. And she LOVED this art. Passionately. She set fear and inspiration straight into my heart. I knew I wanted to be near her. She ended up becoming one of the greatest teachers I’ve ever had. Also, my sister was about 4 years old when I went to college, and I wanted to be near her. The University of Houston was the perfect choice for me.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time on campus? Was there a particular professor who influenced your education?

One of my favorite on-campus memories is... maybe not what you’d expect. Gus Kaikkonen came to UH to direct The Crucible and I desperately wanted to be Abigail. When I didn’t get a callback, I gathered all my courage and decided to stop him in the hallway and ask for a second chance. He, kindly, told me “You already had your chance. No.” and said he was sorry. I was DEVASTATED. Mortified. How could I have been so stupid?! But then my senior year… Gus came back to direct another play. And lo and behold, he cast me as the leading lady in Paradise Hotel. Cue me, IN SHOCK. I was sure he hated me!!! I couldn’t believe it. You truly NEVER know what is going on in casting’s head. Don’t let it stop you

Tell us about a typical day in your job. Do you have a particular philosophy around art and creating?

A typical day on set is early call times, lots of hurry up and waiting, and then you better be ready because 3-2-1 it’s your close up!!! That being said... most days in the life of an actor are not spent being on set. Many days are spent working your side jobs, prepping for theatrical auditions, driving to commercial auditions and callbacks, and taking care of your instrument daily.

My philosophy around art and creating is – never forget why you’re doing this. Find your north star, and keep it close, because when times get tough you will need it. Also, say yes!! You never know who you’re going to meet, or what a certain project could inspire for you.

Who were the most influential professors or mentors you encountered, and how did they impact your education and career?

I truthfully enjoyed my time with all my professors at UH. However, as I said before, Carolyn Boone was a huge influence on me. She gave you the truth, and didn’t sugar coat it, but she did that because she wanted you to grow. Many layers were shed in her class. Much growth was done. Also, Jack Young, though he wasn’t a professor of mine (he worked with the MFA program and I was undergrad) was extremely influential in my time as a student. He invited me to the Suzuki class, where I learned that my body could be strong, that I could push through uncomfortable things, that I was capable of greatness. He also checked in on me often, in fact, he saw me on the outdoor patio feeling sorry for myself after the failed Abigail debacle, and with a great pep talk encouraged me to ask Gus for that second chance. Now we all know how that went, but knowing that Jack believed in me – meant everything. And I truly believe that moment was one of the greatest lessons I’ve learned as an actor and person. Also MARK MEDOFF! He organized readings of his plays and when I was invited to read them I jumped at the opportunity. He saw something in me that I hadn’t even seen in myself.He believed in me. This big time, award-winning writer. And his kindness and generosity! He treated everyone as an equal. It meant everything to me.

What is one career accomplishment of which you are particularly proud of? How do you feel your College education prepared you for this?

 I booked the role of “Dulce Flores” in the feature film Long Shadows which will be coming to theaters September 26th. It was my first feature film on location and… it was the lead. I’m extremely proud of my performance, of my ability to lead without prior experience, and of my tenacity. UH prepared me for this not only by teaching me many different methods of acting, but also by teaching me how to be uncomfortable. How to stand tall and keep going.

What is one valuable lesson you learned during your time as a student at the School of Art?

You can’t do this alone.

How has your industry changed since you started, and what trends do you see emerging?

If you want to work in TV & Film – Self tapes are the thing. 100% of TV & Film first call auditions are done on tape so get comfy with it!!

What advice would you give to new graduates entering your field?

Learn how to self tape. Be ready to have a side job – if you can, learn a skill that you can do from home on your own hours. For example, I do payroll, and even when I was on set in Tucson for my movie I was doing payroll at night. Yup! The grind never stops.

What legacy do you hope to leave?

I want to be a vessel of truth. I want people to see themselves reflected in my work, and know that they are not alone. I want people to be able to have empathy for and catharsis from the people that live through me on screen. We are all just humans, walking each other home.

How can alumni or current students connect with you or follow your work?

My Instagram is @sarah_cortez.x — I’d love for you to follow and reach out. Let’s connect!

What final piece of advice would you offer to anyone reading your spotlight?

Love yourself, and treat your instrument with care. Your health, mental health included, is everything.