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For Will Orrock, college was a stepping-stone to discovering the world. The Douglas High School graduate made the most out of his WNC experience, taking part in student government and musical theatre productions while he earned his associate degree in 2005. But his college experience also helped kindle a desire to see the world and study abroad. Now, as a recipient of the prestigious Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarship, Will has the opportunity to live his dream. With the help of the Minden Rotary Club, which nominated him for the scholarship, Will was chosen by Rotary International to receive a $26,000 award to study abroad for a year. He is now living in Chile, and is turning one of his passions into a future career. "I'm studying dance and choreography," with an eye toward a career in teaching and dance choreography, Orrock said. First a bachelor's degree and possibly a master's degree are in his plans. "I'd love to own my own ballroom," he said. Ironically, Orrock "found" the arts because of athletics. Growing up, he played soccer and tennis, and also loved to dance for fun. "I also raced bikes for 12 years, and learned ballet to help with my coordination on the bikes," he said. What happened next was a surprise. "I fell in love with it," he said, and learned that he had a talent for dance. Orrock danced ballet for six years, and also learned tap and Latin dance. Simultaneously, Will felt wanderlust and the urge to see the world. "No one in my family had ever lived abroad, but I always felt intrigued by someone from the outside," he said. His parents encouraged him, and the Rotary Club provided him the opportunity to see the world in 2001-2002, as a Rotary Youth Exchange student to Santiago. From that experience, Will vowed to return to Chile someday. At WNC, Will took part in numerous Western Nevada Musical Theatre Company productions, including blockbusters like "West Side Story," "Kiss Me Kate" and "Beauty and the Beast." He also gained confidence and inspiration from being part of the United Students Association, and from his WNC instructors. With encouragement from his college mentors and his family, Will followed his dream. He says other WNC students should do the same. "Just go for it, just do it," he advises current students. "Be patient and search for what your heart and mind tells you. "
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