Ruben Adorno’s compelling story of finishing his education at DePaul University with the help of an unexpected scholarship touched the audience at The Theatre School’s 2013 gala. His experience illustrated the true impact one scholarship can make.

In 2009, Adorno thought he was living a dream when he was accepted into The Theatre School to study acting. DePaul was at the top of his list of colleges he wanted to attend while at a performing arts high school in northern Virginia, where he grew up. The expense of moving to Chicago in addition to the tuition would be a sacrifice, but one he and his family were willing to make. If he completed his studies, Adorno would be the first in the family to graduate from college in America, so his future was well worth the investment.

“When I told my parents that I had been accepted at DePaul, they were excited,” said Adorno. “We had a plan to pay for my expenses with loans, the great financial aid DePaul offered and money from my parents.”

While attending class at The Theatre School, however, Adorno learned that even the best-laid plans sometimes come undone. He also discovered that when they do, the unexpected can be even better.

The aftershocks of the economic crash derailed his family’s plan. His mother, who worked in the auto industry, couldn’t earn the money she was accustomed to because automobile purchases dipped substantially. His father, who was a chef at a hotel, lost his job when hotel stays took a plunge. Family finances tightened. By the end of Adorno’s junior year, the chances of him and his family being able to afford the expenses of his senior year looked bleak, even though Adorno worked part time to supplement his parents’ support and his financial aid package.

“There is a scholarship at The Theatre School that is based on talent, attendance, hard work and other factors,” said Adorno. “Faculty select the students, and it’s based on work from the previous year. I was not picked for the scholarship my third year and that inspired me to work even harder to get one for my fourth year. I knew nothing would be handed to me.”

Adorno’s tenacious spirit and hard work paid off. He captured one of the coveted scholarships, which allowed him to complete his senior year without burdening his parents. “The scholarship was not just for me, it was really for my family,” said Adorno. “When they asked for volunteers to speak at the gala, I knew I wanted to tell my story. I am middle class and there are people in the school who are less fortunate then I am — and I had to struggle. I wanted to tell my story to encourage others to give so that those in need could have scholarships.”

Adorno’s future plans include joining the Peace Corps and landing a role on a television show while performing in theatre productions. He will remain dedicated to giving back to the school that helped him realize his dream. “DePaul was willing to help me out financially when I needed it the most,” said Adorno. “The spirit of giving back resonates through the university and through The Theatre School.”

Written by Valerie Phillips