When watching a movie or TV show, most people only pay attention to the lead actors. But what about the hundreds or sometimes thousands of people that help make up the scene as extras?
Auburn student Josefina Boneo, a junior in communication, was offered a job as an extra on the set of the hit TV show "The Vampire Diaries."
Boneo has wanted to become an actor since she was a little girl and getting this opportunity just sealed the deal.
"Ever since I was 5-years-old, I would do skits with my family on the holidays and I loved it," says Boneo.
Becoming an extra is not as easy as it may sound. Boneo spent over a year sending out resumes and headshots without hearing a word until she got an email about The Vampire Diaries.
"I got an email saying I was chosen and was not expecting it," says Boneo. "I called my mom and freaked out!"
Being on the set was something that Boneo will never forget. Filming started very early in the morning and despite the warm weather all the extras were dressed in winter attire to fit the season of the show.
Boneo explains how down to earth and friendly the lead actors where to her surprise.
"The lead was just talking to us and he was really cool," she says. "He didn't act like he was on a hit show."
Boneo has been working hard to get into the entertainment industry by immersing herself in acting classes and surrounding herself by people who know their stuff.
In the 2009, Boneo spent the summer living in New York City and attended the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute.
"I knew that to be in this field I had to work with the best," says Boneo. "And I knew that Lee Strasberg would give that to me."
Lee Stasberg Theatre and Film Institute has taught many award winning actors such as Angelina Jolie, Marilyn Monroe and many more.
After sending in her resume, Boneo flew up to NYC for a formal interview where she had to impress the admissions board.
Now Boneo is setting her sights on Hollywood and is excited to go out there this summer to take Bill Howey Acting Workshop classes. This workshop only accepts intermediate to advanced actors so Boneo was thrilled when she found out she had been accepted.
"I feel like going out to LA will be a good way to meet people," says Boneo. "In this industry you need to surround yourself by people who have the same interests as you."
Althouth Boneo is just a junior and still has another year here at Auburn, she is determined to make it in the entertainment industry. Her passion and outgoing personality will sure get her from being an extra to the leading lady in no time.
