For many seniors at Grand Valley State University, the final winter semester of their college careers is bittersweet. Theater major Joe Cox is no exception.

Cox has been thoroughly involved in the theater program here during his entire time at GVSU, gracing the stage in several main stage productions such as “Romeo and Juliet,” “Rhinoceros,” “As You Like It,” “The Braggart Soldier” and “Twelfth Night,” to name a few.

“My time here at Grand Valley has been very enjoyable,” Cox said. “My time with the GVSU theater department has been a great opportunity to discover and learn about every aspect of theatre. Outside of theatre my time here has been great. Surprisingly, I’ve only had teachers who I really enjoyed and haven’t really had any negative experiences.”

In addition to his roles in GVSU’s main stage performances, Cox has fleshed out his resume as a member of the student-run theater organization STAGE and president of APO, GVSU’s theater fraternity.

“To me, theater means change,” Cox said. “I love theater because of how different it is from day-to-day. It really helps me not feel complacent and allows me to do something I love.”

Students who had worked with Cox in the past praised his willingness to collaborate with cast mates and the energy he brings to the productions he’s a part of.

“Joe is one of the most genuine, talented and personable people I’ve ever met,” said Colin Beerens, a GVSU senior. “He’ll help you rehearse and offer advice for how to improve your performance. He’s very sincere
and dedicated to whatever project is at hand, but is always kind and helpful as well. Joe is just about everything you could want in an actor, director, organization leader and friend.”

Brynhild Weihe, another theater major, said Cox always makes it his goal to put a smile on everyone’s face.

“To him, it’s just as important to entertain the people he works with as well as the audience,” Weihe said.

Cox is no stranger to the theater game, and as he leaves to go out into the real world he has some advice to give back to all students at GVSU.

“Don’t take anything too seriously,” he said. “Always remember everyone around you is going through the exact same thing. It gets hard, but keep your chin up.”

rrodriguez@lanthorn.com