She shares her experiences, fears, discoveries, and the reasons why, if given a second chance, she would choose this path all over again.
What made you decide to pursue a degree in acting?
I was already 25 when I finally dared to fulfill my childhood dream — to apply to an acting program. I walked away from a stable marketing career, having already earned a solid higher education in International Relations at Belarusian State University, left behind my familiar life and everything that surrounded me, and moved to another country. It was a bold challenge to myself.
I was terrified: Could I really allow myself to follow a childhood dream and dedicate my life to something I truly love?
Now I know for sure — if your dream is strong enough that you’re willing to change everything for it, that’s the moment you need to go after it.
What was your first year like? What surprised you most?
The first year was far from easy: adjusting to a new country, relocating, immigration paperwork, a complete overhaul of my daily life. I had to start from scratch — new people, new rules of the game. There were moments of exhaustion, doubt, times when I wanted to quit. But there were also days of incredible inspiration, when I knew without question that I was exactly where I was meant to be.
From the start, I felt this was mine. I stayed, even when others decided to leave.
I knew exactly who I wanted to learn from — outstanding professionals whose work I’d followed long before applying: Alexander Marchenko, Olga Polevikova, Airida Gintautaitė, Zita Dulinskienė. Lithuania, an international community, the chance to study in a multicultural environment, access to the European market — none of it intimidated me. On the contrary, it fueled my drive and ambition. I wasn’t just pursuing a profession; I was seeking the tools to speak the universal language of art, to explore different genres, and to make my voice heard on the international stage.
Were there moments when you questioned if it was all worth it? What kept you going?
Of course. There were days I’d think, “What am I even doing here?” The challenges were less about the coursework and more about life itself: emigrating, juggling intense 12-hour days of classes with the need to work to support myself, adapting to new rules and rhythms.
What kept me grounded was determination, obsession with my craft, and a deep trust in my heart’s voice. I realized I had spent too many years playing roles that weren’t mine — living for someone else’s goals and expectations. I’d achieved a lot, but none of it for myself. Then it became crystal clear: I didn’t want to do anything else. If money didn’t exist, I would still be on stage, rehearsing, performing, filming — simply because I can’t imagine life without it. Take it away, and it would feel like cutting out a living, essential part of my soul.
Blood, Sex & Royalty on Netflix
Did you face a language barrier?
Not at all. Most of my personal projects have been in English, which has become my primary professional tool and everyday language. While still a student, I performed at the Vilnius Old Theatre and worked with Belarusian production companies.
Right now, I’m studying Lithuanian. It’s challenging, but I’m determined to use it professionally. I’ve also studied French, which turned out to be incredibly helpful when I had a scene in French in my diploma performance. Thanks to the university, I even had the chance to attend free French language courses at the French Embassy in Lithuania.
My main advice for anyone dreaming of a career in theatre or the arts: learn languages. They’re not just a communication tool — they’re a key that opens doors you didn’t even know existed. Language is freedom of choice, the ability to work in different countries with different people, and a way to expand your creative possibilities.
What did studying abroad give you beyond the profession itself?
Studying abroad gave me fearlessness — most barriers exist only in your mind. If you work hard and honestly, sooner or later your efforts will be rewarded with remarkable projects and inspiring teams. But you have to be ready: acting is not a stable paycheck. More often, it’s project-based work that can pay well but rarely offers immediate success or quick monetization. It’s better to let go of that illusion.
It also awakened in me a love for collaboration and contribution. I often take part in creative projects without pay because they help me grow professionally, build my artistic portfolio, and meet extraordinary people.
How do you see an acting career today, post-graduation? Is it only about theatre?
Not at all. An actor today can thrive in countless arenas: film, television, radio, content creation, PR, directing, producing, arts management, teaching, playwriting, screenwriting.
Right now, I want to combine acting with the full spectrum of skills I’ve acquired — to deepen my understanding of production, content creation, and the behind-the-scenes work that shapes a project from concept to completion.
A humanities education is like cutting a diamond — it sharpens your strengths and helps you choose your path. Most importantly, it empowers you to be the author of your own life, creating your own projects and opportunities. Everything is in your hands.
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Photo by @timohiphoto
What were your most memorable projects or roles as a student?
One of the most unforgettable was playing Lady Anne in Shakespeare’s Richard III. It was a small student role, but it quickly became a favorite.
Photo https://ira-maslakova.com/
I was fortunate to portray an incredible range of characters: a male NKVD officer, an elderly woman, a young boy, a prostitute, liberated women. Each role was a unique experience and a new tool in my actor’s arsenal. I genuinely love every student project because they gave me a solid foundation.
Inferno. Traditions
Ivona, Princess of Burgundia
Photo by @pafotkinau
The Orchestra
Photo by @pashtalyonau
Beyond school, I adore all my film work and the teams I’ve worked with on set. Only through experience do you realize the magnitude of effort it takes — I admire everyone who’s chosen production as both a lifestyle and a calling. One highlight was starring in the music video Can I Come With You by AP$ENT (the English version of the viral hit “Можно я с тобой”). It was an unforgettable experience.
More on other projects — coming next year.
What would you say to an applicant afraid they won’t pass the creative audition?
Remember: even through Zoom, your energy and confidence will come through. If things aren’t going the way you hoped, or you’re short on time, or you’re full of doubt — relax. Step into the version of yourself that knows exactly why you’re here, the one who came to tell the stories of the characters in your audition pieces.
That sincerity and resolve will draw attention and ease your nerves. Because if fear, not you, shows up to the audition — it will be very hard to grow as an actor.
The panel is there to witness and enjoy your art, even if it’s just a short excerpt or a poem. And they understand these are your very first steps — they want to support you.
If you perform sincerely, with fire in your heart, the doubts will quiet down — and before long, you’ll be celebrating your acceptance.
If you could go back to the beginning, would you do it all again? Why?
Rationally, I’d say no — I’m nearly 30, I’ve been through so much in four years, it wasn’t easy, and the idea of starting another degree is daunting. But my heart says yes.
I’d want to relive those moments: the first etudes, the short sketches, and the roles I wanted so badly but never got to try.
If I could go back with the experience I have now, I’d do many things differently — it would be more powerful, more transformative, and even more meaningful. And I’m certain it would be just as exciting.
So yes — a thousand times yes.