Stacey Scott

Teyonah Parris, 17, and Stacey Scott, 17, have been working hard and dreaming big for the past two years at SC’s Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities. Their dedication paid off when they were chosen out of 1,300 international candidates to attend the Julliard School of Drama in New York City.

Only 18 people were given the honor of acceptance to one of the most prestigious arts colleges in the world. “It is highly unusual for two students from the same school to be chosen for acceptance,” said Sally Skardon, vice president for institutional advancement at the Governor’s school. “It is especially outstanding considering we have only had our residential program for five years.”

Teyonah Parris Parris and Scott spent their junior and senior years in high school in a college atmosphere. “I really feel that I got a leg up on college,” Parris said. “I feel like the governor’s school prepared me very well.” Competition was intense for the Julliard spots. Both girls traveled to New York City during a blizzard in order to audition. “I didn’t talk to anyone all day,” Parris said. “I knew what I was there for, and I stayed focused.”

Once they learned of their acceptance to Julliard, Parris and Scott, with the help of the Governor’s school, began fund–raising for financial aid to cover the $40,000 a year to attend. They both served as student ambassadors at various events and school–sponsored luncheons in order to share their experiences. As a result of their ambassadorships, people were moved to donate funds on their behalf to help them with expenses.

“I’ve almost completely reached my goal now,” Scott said. “I just keep praying everyday.” Parris and Scott trust their faith in God to get them through the financial process and their time at Julliard.

The theatrical training at the Governor’s School is primarily classic and contemporary theatre, so it’s no surprise that both girls want to start their careers in the theatre and move on to pursue the film industry. Scott credits the school and her mother, Sharon, for her success. Parris also credits the school and her parents, Mitchell and Marian Green.

Although their fundraising has been successful, they are still in need of more financial support. Please contact The Columbia Star at 771-0219 if you are interested in helping Parris and Scott make their dreams come true.