The Gabriel Steven Cota Fullerton College Story

Gabe was a student at Fullerton College from Fall 2005 until Spring 2009. Throughout his time, it has been an arduous journey of self-discovery and personnel growth that ultimately proved to be a fulfilling experience. He initially entered as a Theatre Major focusing with the intention to be an actor, but having assimilated into the FC Theatre Arts Department he was able to draw out more than he could anticipate.

Gabe auditioned and performed for a number of shows on the campus, and served in crew positions that exponentially increased his show-count if he would have only acted. Through technical theatre he experimented different aspects from helping with set/costume pieces to being backstage crew. He worked with the department's mentoring group the Theatre Ambassadors for two years, which in turn motivated him to work even harder to "pay his dues."


The most meaningful path to him was the costume route, because despite entering knowing nothing he steadily rose through the ranks. His reliability and determination did not go unnoticed as his efforts earned multiple accomplishments. His proudest highlights were the Black Apron (2008) and Paul Scop Awards (2009), because he never would have imagined that he would be valued so greatly.


Gabe was exceptionally grateful for FC’s patient, dedicated staff. Not only did they help him realize his limitations, but they also taught him to not feel inferior about such weaknesses. He learned that it is possible to overcome them through the right perseverance and the latent attributes he never knew he had. Upon graduating, he earned an AA in Theatre Arts and a Costume Wardrobe Certificate. Gabe's experience with Fullerton College has instilled a great sense of pride and self-reliance that will prevent him from slumping the next time the odds are against him.