Tarleton State University has a new Texan Rider this semester: Laramie Cayenne Gambrell. Gambrell is a 19-year-old theatre major from Tuscola, Texas.

JTAC News: What are your plans for after graduation?

Laramie Cayenne Gambrell (LCG): I haven’t quite decided on what I plan on doing after graduation.

JTAC News: What made you want to try out as Texan rider?

LCG: I fell in love with this school from the moment I toured campus. I was the mascot at my previous school for three years and loved every moment of it. It has always been a goal of mine to be a mascot at the collegiate level and now I’m living the dream.

I take pride in this school and truly bleed purple. People ask me all the time how I’m able to “make time” for events. What they don’t understand is that I don’t have to “make time.” You make time for jobs. This isn’t a job, it’s an opportunity. The fact that I am able to show up to every event and share the spirit of Tarleton with the students and community is such a blessing. I love it!

JTAC News: What was the audition like?

LCG: I was a little nervous for auditions, but only because I wanted it so bad! Everyone was very nice, which helped the nerves and made it a little more laid back. We did a few cheers with the cheerleaders and gave it all we got! It was a really good experience.

JTAC News: Do you ever use things you’ve learned in theatre classes when you’re out there?

LCG: Doing theatre really helps out a lot because
I don’t get nervous or embarrassed to be in front of large crowds! The only difference is that I actually get to acknowledge and interact with the people which is great!

JTAC News: Are you going to be in any productions this semester on campus?

LCG: Yes! Right now I’m in the production of Rumors! Which is the opening show of the season. I won’t know if I will be in any other shows until after auditions for each show later in the semester.