Finding Their Sound: Angelina Sourisak Turns Passion Into Purpose at GTCC

“I had felt really lost and unsure during my senior year of high school,” Sourisak said. “But I still wanted to further my education, so I decided to look into programs at GTCC.”

Angelina Sourisak has always known that music would be part of their life. What they didn’t always know was how to turn that passion into something more.

At Guilford Technical Community College, they figured it out.

Originally from High Point, North Carolina, Sourisak enrolled in GTCC’s entertainment technologies recording engineering program after an uncertain senior year of high school. Like many students, they knew they wanted to continue their education but were unsure what path to take.

“I had felt really lost and unsure during my senior year of high school,” Sourisak said. “But I still wanted to further my education, so I decided to look into programs at GTCC.”

That search led them to a program that aligned perfectly with something they had loved for years.

“I’ve always loved music and performing for as long as I can remember,” they said. “When I was around 14, I started recording covers and doing voice acting in my room for fun. I never learned anything beyond just plugging in a microphone and pressing record, but I wanted to understand everything that happens behind the scenes.”

At GTCC, Sourisak did not just learn what happens behind the scenes. They became the person making it happen.

One of Sourisak’s most recent accomplishments is their work with Ti-Tone Records, where they engineered and produced three songs and tracked drums on an additional song for the group’s latest album, “Sophomore.” The experience gave them the opportunity to take full ownership of the recording process, applying both technical skills and creative decision-making in a collaborative environment.

Sourisak also gained valuable industry experience through a work-based learning opportunity as a recording intern at Earthtones Recording Studio in Greensboro. The studio specializes in voiceover and automatic dialogue replacement (ADR) for film and television.

During their internship, Sourisak assisted with ADR work for the television series “Landman,” featuring Billy Bob Thornton, and had the opportunity to meet a member of the cast. The experience provided a firsthand look at the fast-paced, professional world of audio production.

Outside of the studio, Sourisak continues to stay connected to their community, currently supporting a production of “Mamma Mia!” at Southwest Guilford High School, where they once attended.

Faculty support has been central to Sourisak’s growth throughout the program, helping them build both the confidence and the technical expertise to take on each of these opportunities. Ron Barrans, an entertainment technology instructor who worked closely with Sourisak, says their impact extended well beyond technical skill.

“Angelina is incredibly talented,” Barrans said. “Their professionalism, communication skills, and positive attitude really highlighted what GTCC students have to offer.”

Beyond the classroom and studio, Sourisak found something equally meaningful during their time at GTCC, a strong sense of community.

“I think the most positive thing that’s happened to me is all of the friendships I’ve made,” they said. “I’ve made a lot of good friends and connections that have helped me through school and in my personal life. I’ve learned so much from the people around me.”

They also credit their success to the support they received from those around them, including their peers and mentors.

Among those people is Josh Ballard, a friend and teaching assistant whose support made a lasting impression.

“The number one person I have to thank is my friend and TA, Josh Ballard,” Sourisak said. “He is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful and has made a huge impact on what I know about audio.”

As they approach graduation in May, Sourisak is looking ahead with an open mind, planning to travel and continue exploring where their passion for music can take them. Their advice to students considering their own path reflects the mindset that carried them through their time at GTCC.

“My advice for someone considering GTCC is that it’s okay to ask for help and know your limits,” they said. “Balancing school and life can be a lot, but it’s okay to rely on the people around you. You don’t have to overwork yourself to be successful.”

Sourisak came to GTCC unsure of where music would take them. They leave with studio credits, professional industry experience, and a community that helped them grow. At GTCC, Titans like Angelina Sourisak prove that when passion meets opportunity, students can Make Amazing Happen.