Ways to Stand Out When Auditioning for a Commercial

Philanthropist and finance professional Janina Casey graduated from St. John's University and has since led a career in research equity and sales. During her childhood, Janina Casey was involved in the acting world and appeared in several television commercials. as well as the television show The Electric Company.

Standing out during a commercial audition is challenging for actors of any age. Listed below are a few things to help young actors be more memorable during a casting call.

1. Dress appropriately. Casting directors audition young actors because they want actors who look the age they’ll be playing. For this reason, actors should always dress appropriately for an audition and avoid applying too much makeup, wearing provocative clothes, or doing other things that don't suit their age.

2. Make adjustments. During an audition, it’s not uncommon for the director to request that the actor do something differently than the sample script says. For example, directors may try changing which word is emphasized in a line. Directors often do this to figure out how well a young actor takes direction when it comes to their performance. Those who are unable to take direction well are more likely to be passed up for someone with more range.

3. Create a moment. While rehearsing, young actors can craft a scene that happens right before the section they are auditioning for. The creation of some backstory will help the actor get into character and demonstrates to the director that the actor understands the idea that scenes are a slice of life.

Improving Hiking Endurance

New York executive Janina Casey focuses her work on the equity sales and research industry. Outside of her professional pursuits, Janina Casey enjoys hiking.

Although it very possible to improve hiking endurance, it must be done over the course of several weeks to ensure the body is properly trained. For those working Monday through Friday, most gradual increases will occur during the weekdays. If possible, hike three or four times each week, and periodically increase the length of the hike until you reach the desired distance. Meanwhile, the weekends can serve as marathon sessions. 

In addition to gradually increasing distance, it is important to stay active throughout the year. Depending on your location, there may not be an offseason for hiking. In that case, engage in activities that are more suitable to the weather in order to maintain stamina.

Finally, hikers looking to improve endurance should work on their strength and toughness. Outside of hiking, performing lunges, crunches, and calf raises will boost the strength of the leg and core muscles. In terms of increasing toughness, hikers can vary their workouts by completing hikes of differing intensities. They can also string together workouts so they are hiking multiple days in a row.

Four Tips for Improved Hiking Stamina

Janina Casey, the managing director of BTIG in New York City, has nearly 20 years of experience in equity sales and research. In her free time, Janina Casey enjoys the outdoors, and especially likes hiking. 

A great way to explore new places and stay in shape, hiking can seem taxing and difficult at first, but by following four simple tips, it can become easier and more enjoyable. 

1. Exercise often and well. Many hikers can be fooled into pushing themselves to the breaking point, only to be sore for days after. It's better to train slowly and consistently than in large bursts. Walk a bit more each week, and don't take on too much. 

2. Stretching is key. Both before and after a hike, stretching can greatly decrease the risk of injury. It can also improve balance. It's best to focus on the quadriceps, hamstrings, hips, and calves. Yoga can also be a benefit, even once a week. 

3. Drink the right amount of water. Many hikers believe that one can never drink enough water on a strenuous hike, but drinking more than 28 ounces per hour without salt can be life threatening. Between 16 and 28 ounces an hour is plenty. 

4. Resting is important for both the body and the mind. Making progress is important, but going farther or faster without giving the body a chance to rest can be dangerous and debilitating. If training for 12 weeks, take one week off completely. This is physically vital, and also gives the mind a break.