Last night, Tony Award winner Leslie Odom Jr. took the stage in Stephens Auditorium to talk about his career, share some wisdom and perform a few songs from the hit musical Hamilton. Here are some of the highlights from Odom’s lecture. 

Wrestling with your path is okay 

On his career in theatre, Odom remarked that “this business is tough. You eventually have to reckon with why you’ve started on the path you are on.” The same could be applied to those with careers outside of performing as well. 

The importance of being a self-starter

During the audience Q&A, Odom talked about starting a career in theatre and what those already in the business expect from those trying to break in. “It’s so easy to get something started. They expect you to be working on your own stuff- it’s not optional.” However, he emphasized the fact that all of the hard work will pay off if you are going after something you love. “If you’re in pursuit of something you love, it will love you back.” 

Rejection happens to everyone- accept it

Rejection happens to the best of us- even Leslie Odom Jr. However, he offered a simple rule for how to deal with something so tough. “With eyes wide open, with honesty, with courage and with knowledge that it happens to everyone. All of that stuff is there to fashion you and give you your colors.” 

Success isn’t measured in statuettes

According to Odom, “Hamilton was my wildest dream.” However, the success of the show and his subsequent Tony win didn’t necessarily mean that he was hungry for more than that. “I don’t need twelve Tony awards,” said Odom. “They’d be nice, but I got 1- and it feels great. When the dream comes true, you’ve got to feel it and be satisfied.”