August 14, 2019

Theatre arts degree and social media minor set the stage for Nicholas Bettens ’19’s Future U success.

HACKETTSTOWN, N.J., Aug. 14, 2019—Someday, Nicholas Bettens hopes to see his name in lights. With a theatre arts degree from Centenary University under his belt, the Stanhope, N.J., resident has set out to establish a career on the stage.

Bettens is one of seven students featured in the cover story of the most recent issue of the Centenarian, the University’s alumni magazine. Called “The Future U,” the story spotlights outstanding students and the futures they envision as a result of earning a Centenary University degree. The story is part of a wider campaign of the same name, which highlights Centenary’s career-focused educational approach.

Before graduating in May, Bettens had plenty of opportunities to hone his craft through his coursework, as well as his participation in productions with Centenary Stage Company, an Equity company in residence at the University. Through Centenary Stage Company, students gain points as Equity membership candidates, as well as experience working with professionals, without ever leaving campus.

In addition to his theatre studies, Bettens rounded out his resume with a minor in social media marketing. “It’s a skill needed in theatres,” Bettens said of his social media marketing minor. “They need help at the box office. Social media skills can get your foot in the door in a theatre company.”

Throughout his college career, Bettens valued the guidance of professionals in the theatre field like Stephen Davis, associate professor of theatre arts. “At Centenary, help is always there,” he explained. “The resources are here. Ask for help, and you’ll get to where you want to be.”

Read more about Centenary’s Future U students in the Centenarian.

ABOUT CENTENARY UNIVERSITY

Founded in 1867 by the Newark Conference of the United Methodist Church, Centenary University’s academic program integrates a solid liberal arts foundation with a strong career orientation. This mix provides an educational experience that prepares students to succeed in the increasingly global and interdependent world. The University’s main campus is located in Hackettstown, N.J., with its equestrian facility in Washington Township. The Centenary University School of Professional Studies offers degree programs at two locations, Parsippany and Edison, as well as online and at corporate sites throughout New Jersey.