This show had an interesting rehearsal process, in that we had a guest director from The Alley. We were putting our skills in practice with someone outside of the department who didn't know how we worked and what our team brought to the show yet. However, when our director complimented us on our efficiency, drive, and positivity, I knew that what we were learning in this program had real value outside of the school. I was also putting into practice all the experience I gained from Houston Shakespeare Festival and the Ten Minute Play Festival. Line notes were easier because I developed my own process of marking the script during a run and then writing the notes when we were on break or while doing another run. I was also proficient with setting up the stage as soon as I got there, and knew how to juggle being on book while also working on paperwork. Learning how to ask the right questions at the right times was another important, yet often overlooked skill that I acquired. To be a stage manager, you have to think like a stage manager. Overall, this experience reinforced the training I received my freshman year, and I learned that sometimes you can't see what you're learning while you're in school, but once you experience a force from the real world, your skills are put to the test.