Hi, my name is Malia Barnhardt. I am a Freshman B.F.A Acting Major at Howard University. I have been auditioning since I was 9 years old. Someone who inspired me to act is my Dad. What motivates me is being able to thank him when I receive my Oscar. My goal as an actress is to become a Cultural Activist. I want to take on roles that showcase Black woman in a positive light and teach lessons that will live on through generations. What I love about performing is how the outside world seems to stops spinning for a moment when the light hits my face. So far, I am most proud of my role in Euphoria as Young Leslie. I remember having to sing a church song, and while we were filming Zendaya was sitting in the front row of the audience. That was my first time experiencing life on a set, and it will definitely be one of many. This experience taught me to keep my head up and know what is meant for me will find me, while still working hard to reach those goals. A few months earlier I was runner-up for the role of Young Serena in King Richard, starring Will Smith. I got the opportunity to do a screen test beside him. I remember getting a fist bump from him after the first take. It is those small moments that I will carry with me forever. My dream role on stage is to play Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors. I remember watching Joy Woods take on this role, and as a young Black woman, it inspired me that one day I can play Audrey. For film, my goal is to be in A24, and NEON productions. I think the movies they make are always so engaging and cinematic. A lot of them are coming of age which I really like and want to be apart of. During my college years, I am still going to be auditioning for roles, and during my free time I want to intern for an agent or manager. I aim to become their assistant. This will allow me to learn the ins and outs of the industry. It will also give me the knowledge to pursue other career paths in the industry. Howard has also taught me the importance of networking, which is something I will always be doing around campus and off campus. The goal is to have a job ready for me after college.