SMCS Student Accepted to USC for Stage Management
With graduation around the corner for the St. Michael’s College School (SMCS) Class of 2025, one member has decided to take the road less travelled as he prepares for the next stage of his educational journey this fall.
Jiaer Li, Grade 12, has accepted the International Freshman Academic Scholarship, one of the top merit-based honours from the University of Southern California (USC). He will pursue a bachelor of fine arts in stage management, following his passion for the arts at the university’s renowned School of Dramatic Arts.
“I chose USC because of its prestigious School of Dramatic Arts, known for graduating outstanding artists, and its location close to the bustling culture of Hollywood,” says Li. “I have a deep passion for stage management of musicals, plays, operas, and other performances. I’ve always loved being backstage and supporting the actors on stage—and this programme of study will help me do that for a career.”
Li’s journey at SMCS began in Grade 8, during the heart of the COVID-19 pandemic, which ultimately proved to be a turning point for him.
“COVID really changed me as a student—it brought me out of my shell,” says Li. “Originally, I was not very involved in extracurriculars and felt isolated from my peers. I found that our variety of co-curricular programmes became a way to fight out of that isolation—and it absolutely worked, seeing how involved I became in my later years at SMCS.”
Post-pandemic, Li fully immersed himself in the school’s co-curricular programme, particularly with the Centre of the Arts and the music programme.
“I’d stay at school until it was dark, working on productions and performances—that’s where I found my place,” Li says. “The experiences SMCS gave me, allowed me to grow my work ethic, teamwork, and made me find the fun in getting involved in the school community.”
Li has participated in every school drama production over the past three years, in addition to numerous concerts and workshops.
“Because of the experiences I’ve had here — especially in the arts — I feel ready to step into productions at USC,” he says. “Our Centre for the Arts is run so similarly to what I’ve seen in professional theatres. It’s made a huge difference in preparing me for what’s next.”
That growth has not gone unnoticed by his teachers and theatre staff.
“Jiaer has been a dedicated and enthusiastic contributor to our music and theatre programmes at St. Michael’s,” says Jamie Oatt, Head of the Music Department. “His attention to detail and his passion for learning the inner workings and strategies of staging productions have been a tremendous asset to our programme.
Throughout high school, Li has participated in a wide range of co-curricular activities, including serving as a Prefect and member of the Student Government, Stage Crew, Senior Band, Wind Ensemble, and Trip Band. Outside of the arts, he has participated in various clubs, including VEX Robotics, Tower Media, the Blue Beacon, Choir, SMCS Cuisine, and the Yearbook. If that wasn’t enough, Li also took time to start his own club, Magic: The Gathering.
He was also on the Honour Roll each year and received multiple music awards during his time at the school.
“SMCS is known for graduating talented and dedicated athletes, but I see my achievements in our arts programme to be a testament to the powerful and transformative impact of the arts at our school,” says Li. “I hope my journey shows some of the younger students, many of whom I’ve worked with at our outdoor education camps, that pursuing a path in the arts is an amazing and fulfilling opportunity.”
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