Bella Kelso

The Theatre School at DePaul University
Year 2024

Major: BFA Acting

What I love most about college:
It has been so beautiful to be a part of such a well-rounded program with such a diverse makeup. Our identity is informative and a gift, and rather than shoving myself into a mold, here, I am truly able to discover myself and decide who I want to be. The skills and opportunities I’ve gained in just a year and a quarter have amplified not only the volume, but the strength of my tool belt as an actor and an artist. Being a part of this conservatory-style program has given me the access to learn all that I could dream of learning while still honoring and accepting who I am and what I bring into it.

What I learned from BP:
Knowing the background of every character and show is integral to conveying all that each story holds (or has the potential to hold). Doing shows at BP really established a strong work ethic in me towards getting behind the true meaning of what I portray on the level of: text, character traits, character/show cultural background, historical significance, theme, and more. Getting the opportunity to respectfully immerse in practices, too, such as our Shabbat dinner during “Fiddler on the Roof” were incredible educational experiences that helped me tell my story in a way I otherwise might not have been able to. BP has taught me to seek the truth.