SAM VAN WYK

PERFORMER & FACILITATOR

LONG STORY SHORT

Growing up on a farm in Iowa, I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be a lawyer or an actor. (I was obsessed with Law & Order.) I credit my Kindergarten teacher with fostering my love of performing. She would have us act out things as a teaching tool, and I’ve been performing ever since. Collegiate Empowerment is the perfect place to use my love of performance to help students as they discover and develop their own passion and purpose.

THE REST OF THE STORY

I am a New York based professional actor and improv comedian and teacher. After receiving my BA in Theatre, I have performed nationally in musicals, plays, commercials, and television programs. After moving to New York I studied Improv and Sketch comedy at the Upright Citizens Brigade. I am a senior company member with New York Improv Theatre and Comedy Sportz NYC. Besides working as a performer and host with these companies, I also lead corporate improv training.

I loved my time in college! I have always felt that those years really helped shaped me into the person I am today. It was a wonderful time where I was able to develop myself and to build a strong community of friends and supporters. When I heard about Collegiate Empowerment from a fellow performer, I was thrilled to apply. As a CE Facilitator, I love getting to help shape the experiences of the students in a fun, interactive, and impactful way. There are important lessons to learn in and out of the classroom, and I love that Collegiate Empowerment is committed to addressing these important topics in a fun, high-energy, interactive way.

REAL GPA

I’ve been labeled as a Swiss Army Knife because of my adaptability. I believe my Real GPA is Communication and Empathy. I am a huge proponent of clear, concise, and courteous communication, and I believe my talent in Empathy is a powerful tool to make sure the students get what they really want and what they really need!

OUTSIDE OF CE

Even though I grew up in the midwest, I’ve called New York home for over a decade. When I’m not performing, hobbies include running, playing games, and napping.

SIGNATURE MOVE

High energy and a quick wit!