Staring at the socially awkward, obnoxious talker in your 9 a.m. lecture may be more beneficial than it appears.

According to Tuesday afternoon’s lecture, “From Iowa to Hollywood: Comedy Writing, Performing and Promotion,” people-watching and noticing universally obnoxious situations can help inspire comedy.

A panel discussion was given by Carrie Seim, ISU alumna and career comedian, and her sketch comedy group The Deviants.

“‘Funny’ is about how you as an individual view the world; it’s your own unique stamp,” said Michael Serrato, Deviant and performer on “The Big Gay Sketch Show.”

The group of comedians discussed their own unique paths to Hollywood, and followed with an 8 p.m. comedy performance.

“[Comedy] is totally worth doing, but it’s certainly not an easy path, and there is not just one way [to success],” said Drew Droege, Deviant who has also appeared on “Reno 911.”

Seim detailed her own journey from Iowa State, which began with a lecture given by “Saturday Night Live performer” Ana Gasteyer.

Through this connection, Seim was able to get an internship, which sparked a path leading to her very own “SNL” audition.

“Work comes when you’re doing it, loving it and networking – which may be a dirty word, but it’s true,” Serrato said.

Following this comment, several of the panel members announced, in unison, to “be nice to everyone.”

The panel also discussed the necessity of endurance and persistence in the world of comedy.

“You don’t have the luxury of choosing when you want to write and when you feel like being funny; it’s an everyday thing,” Siem said.

Siem said when comedians feel they are at the end of their rope is when inspiration strikes them.

In other circumstances, many sketch comedians have worked other venues: from dressing as a rejected superhero to working county fairs to starring in commercials.

“[All you can do is] cash the check. Laugh,” Droege said.

Female members of the panel discussed the unique challenges that face women in the field of comedy, saying women may need to work twice as hard to make it.

Male members agreed with this assertion.

“It’s definitely a dude’s world when it comes to comedy. I find women inherently fascinating and so funny, but they definitely face a battle [in the industry],” Droege said.

Lecture attendees felt personal ties to Seim.

“I’m from California and taking a speech class, so this lecture seemed to fit,” said Katelyn Finocchioli, junior in accounting.

Finocchioli is not looking to perform in the future, but said working behind the scenes was a possibility.

Jane Vallier, contract associate of English, brought her semantics class to the Tuesday afternoon lecture, making up one-third of the lecture attendance.

“I want them to see the mind of humorists at work,” Vallier said.