Lysette Portano

Attending the University of Houston

I recently graduated in the Fall 2021 with an M.A. in arts leadership. The program I studied seemed to offer the right balance between theory and practice. It matched my future goals perfectly because I have been a dancer for several years now, and I wanted to pursue a career in arts administration. I knew UH would provide me with the tools and connections I needed.

Benefits of Receiving a Scholarship

I received the M.A. in Arts Leadership Scholarship. This scholarship is the reason I was able to study for my master's. As an international student, receiving a scholarship allowed me to qualify for the in-state tuition rate. I don't think I could have managed to study for a master's degree without an in-state tuition rate.

UH Experience

I dance for a dance company that collaborates with UH’s AURA contemporary ensemble. I often see concerts at the Moores Opera House or visit the Blaffer Art Museum. In my community engagement class, we read and discussed texts about the beginning and meaning of art.

I met people from vastly diverse backgrounds and from several states and countries. I hope these connections last for an exceedingly long time and that we can keep supporting each other's goals in any way we can. So far, I have had an awesome networking experience.

Career Goals

Ideally, I want to find a place where I can grow, and my goals depend on where life takes me. I would like to become a department director in a performing arts organization or open my own performing arts center where artists can show their work.

The UH Art program gave me the skills I needed to start working in the field and a full picture of what working in an arts organization entails. Professionally, my motivators are sharing experiences, learning from others and getting to know places and cultures.