Help Send Sam to RADA in London — A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity (That’s Already Begun)

Hi everyone — I’m Sam Karpinski, an actor and senior at Carnegie Mellon University’s School of Drama.

This fall, I’ve been given the chance of a lifetime: to train at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London — one of the most prestigious acting schools in the world, with alumni like Cynthia Erivo, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, and Tom Hiddleston.

And the best part? I’m here. Right now. Training. Learning. Growing. Living the dream I’ve worked years to reach.

Why This Matters

This program isn’t just a semester abroad. It’s the culmination of over a decade of training, discipline, sacrifice, and relentless passion for this craft.

At RADA, I’m diving deep into classical acting, studying Shakespeare in the heart of London, and working with world-class teachers. Every day challenges me to go further — emotionally, creatively, professionally.

It’s changing me as an artist and as a person — and I’m determined to bring everything I gain here back to my work, my community, and the next generation of artists.

How I’m Making It Work — And Where You Come In

Because this program is run through NYU Tisch, my financial aid from CMU doesn’t apply. Tuition is steep — $30,000 — and I’m covering it in installments, month by month, doing everything I can to make it happen.

I’ve applied for every scholarship available, picked up extra work, and received support from incredible mentors — but I still need help to close the gap.

What Your Support Means

This isn’t just about funding tuition — it’s about investing in the kind of artist who’s committed to giving back.

Theatre has always been about more than performance for me. It’s about service — telling stories that matter, lifting others up, and creating spaces where people feel seen, moved, and inspired.

Your support doesn’t just get me through this chapter — it helps me write the next one with more depth, discipline, and heart.

How You Can Help

Whether it’s $5, $25, $100, or simply sharing this page — every bit makes a difference.

Know someone in London who might be willing to host or help? Let me know. Have advice, encouragement, or connections? I’d love to hear from you.

Donate $100 or more, and I’ll send you a handwritten thank-you card from London — a piece of this journey, from me to you.

Thank You

I’ll be sharing updates from the rehearsal room, the classroom, and life in London — so you’ll see exactly how your support is shaping this experience.

Thank you for believing in the power of art — and in me.

Let’s keep this dream alive, together.

With deep gratitude,

Sam