BUEG, the Brown University Entertainment Group, which I am a useless board member of, hosts this great series of "Conversations" where we bring in notable alumni who reflect on their journey from Brown to Hollywood Semi/Superstardom in a really intimate setting.
Notable "Conversations" of the past four years include: Lisa Loeb, John Krasinski, and Masi Oka - "Hiro" from Heroes - who, actually used to organize these events before he became a superstar.
It's always really inspiring, regardless of what you're attempting to do in life, because the common theme is always about having the passion and drive and commitment to pursue the things you love and succeeding against seemingly insurmountable odds.
Last night's "Conversation" featured Hill Harper, star of CSI: NY, and law school buddy/best friend of President Barack Obama.
Nina Daniels led the discussion wonderfully as Hill has served as a great mentor and inspiration to her over the past few years as a working actress.
He talked about life. And determination. And Obama. And passion. And following your heart.
One of the things that really struck me and reaffirmed the way I go about my life and business was (and this isn't word for word):
"If you call yourself artist, then constantly create ART. Don't worry about paychecks and meeting your daily 'rate'. Do any project you have time for. Be constantly evolving and improving. Some projects will pay and some will not, but if you call yourself something, whether it be a writer, actor, photographer, whatever, you should be doing that thing that you say you do every single day. Hell, I still agree to do student films if you catch me on a good day. "
He was really awesome.
I love Brown!
Nice work, Nina!
Oh...and then we conference-called the President.
