Sean Patrick Thomas (College '92), who has starred in such films as "Save the Last Dance" and "Barbershop," chatted with Associate Editor Shannon Sturcken about his experience at the University.
What did you think when you saw the final public service announcement?
I thought it was pretty cool, very professional, very slick. I think it gives you a different impression of what U.Va. is if you don't already know.
What did you think of the process of making the PSA?
They knew what they wanted and they were very professional and very quick about it. They were very nice people and they were cool.
Why did you agree to do it?
Mainly because the guy who asked me to do it in the drama department, Richard Warner, was so helpful and instrumental. I would pretty much do anything they would ask me to do because they were so helpful to me in getting started.
How would you describe your experiences as a University student?
Honestly they were a mixed bag, academically great, socially a little up and down because of Greek life. It is so prevalent they pretty much run the social life there and if you aren't a part of that you can feel a little left out from time to time.
What is you response to some of the recently reported racially motivated incidents at the University?
I'm not surprised entirely. I had a good friend of mine that was assaulted when I was there. I had a great time at U.Va., and it was one of the best times of my life, but I never really felt like I 100 percent belonged. It is tough to come away with one overall impression of the experience.
What are your thoughts on "Access" at the University?
I think that there are just so many kids that still don't take college seriously. They don't see it as a necessity and see it as for them. All it takes is for someone to say that that is a possibility for them. For me, that is something that I take seriously in terms of opening people's eyes to different possibilities.
You were on financial aid when you attended the University; how would you describe that experience?
I was OK when I was there. I wasn't too burdened. The whole process was pretty smooth --- U.Va. has always been good to me.
Being from Delaware, why did you decide to go to the University?
Honestly, I had gotten into a number of pretty good schools but I went down there for a prospective student weekend and I had a great time socially and I was like, "Oh man this is a great place."
How did the University prepare you for the "real world?"
I guess overall just being educated helps you step into the world with more confidence.
I made a few good friends, people who hadn't had a black friend before. It's opened my mind.
What did you originally want to do when you came to the University?
Law school --- the acting part of it was kind of a lucky accident, mainly because I was recruited by Richard Warner to participate in a play.
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