Becoming the Person She Was Born To Be | Regan Pardo’s Acting Story
From a childhood spent helping out on her parents’ small-town berry farm, to taking over the spotlight as an agency-represented actor – Regan Pardo credits all those she met at Toronto Film School for inspiring her to pursue her true passion for performance.
“Thank you, Toronto Film School, for gifting us with amazing instructors, each working in the industry, who were able to share their knowledge and experience to help us succeed,” said Pardo, the valedictorian of the Acting for Film, TV & the Theatre program’s Class of 2022.
“And thank you to my fellow graduates for sharing your creativity and being an inspiration, not only to myself, but to everyone around you.”
Since completing her studies at TFS – and on the President’s List, no less – Pardo has begun making a name for herself, signing with an agency, while also working hard to continually improve her portfolio of work.
Her message to her fellow graduates is a simple one: “Always remember, although our journeys are all unique, every step you take brings you one step closer to becoming the person you were born to be, in an industry you were meant to thrive in.”
Pardo recently sat down to reflect on her time at Toronto Film School, her passion for acting, and her plans for the future. Here’s what she had to say:
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am 25 years old, I’m from a small town called Blenheim, Ontario, where I grew up on my parents’ berry farm. Working at the farm led me to develop a passion for nature; I enjoy spending every second outdoors, on the farm, in the forest or at the beach. I love classic rock, large coffees, a riveting novel and to sing like nobody’s watching. I enjoy going on runs, caring for my plants, playing with my cat and most of all spending time with the people that mean the most to me in this world: my family and friends.
What brought you to Toronto Film School? Where were you in life when you decided to continue your studies with us?
I had recently graduated from the University of Windsor with a degree in Forensic Science and a specialization in Biochemistry. I began looking for career options that I would enjoy and would make me happy when I stumbled on the Toronto Film School and all the pieces started to fall into place.
What made you decide to pursue your passion for acting?
I decided to pursue my passion for acting when I realized that forensics wasn’t the right field for me. Truthfully, I knew that I was all in after my first few weeks at TFS. I loved what I was learning, I was happy to go to my classes, and school no longer felt like school; it was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
What is the most important thing you’re taking away from your studies at TFS?
I will always cherish the relationships that I have built at TFS. I continue to spend time and work with many of the people I crossed paths with at school. I look back fondly on the memories I’ve made and the bonds I’ve built. From a career perspective, I have gained so much knowledge about the industry and opened new doors for myself that I never could have imagined. TFS taught me to dream big, and that nothing is truly impossible, as long as you are willing to put in the hard work and dedication it requires.
What are your plans after graduation both immediate and long term?
After graduation I plan to continue on the path I have begun carving out for myself. I will continue to work with my agency, auditioning and developing my skills. I will keep writing scripts and producing my own films. I am in no rush to expedite my career, but only to nourish it as the time is right, becoming an actor I am proud of. I will know I have succeeded in this industry when I am respected for the person I am and called upon for the hard work that I bring to set.
If you offered one piece of advice to an incoming student, what would that be?
I would offer the same piece of advice that a wise former student/current teacher told me: “Do one thing for your career every day, no matter how big or small.” It is easy to lose sight of your dreams; it was these words that have kept me grounded and headed in the right direction for me.
