A Journey to the Top: SU Alum Orlando Street

Producing a steadily growing list of various alumni who have found success after graduation, Southern University has particularly set a standard for Black creatives and artists nationwide.
There is a hard route to success, but as for actor, filmmaker and Southern alum Orlando Eric Street, he is “Not Stopping” yet.
Street, a native of Chicago moved to Baker, Louisiana at the tender age of 12-years old, where he spent the remainder of his adolescent years. This move was a decision made by his father, Eric Street Sr. in order to move his children away from the threat of gang and street violence.
Upon entering Southern University, Mr. Street had no idea what his life would be holding in store. Street entered Southern on a full ride tennis scholarship. At the time his desired major was math. However, as time went on, he began to explore different majors, such as English, ultimately graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Broadcast Journalism.
For many college students, the thought of changing their major sends them into a frenzy. “Don’t be afraid to do what’s best for you!” said Street. When asked how did he realize Broadcast was the route for him, he attributes this decision to his ultimate goal of becoming a film director. Before transitioning completely into the production side of the broadcast life, Street gave every aspect a chance. He also gave insight into his life while living with dyslexia, and how this affects his career. He quickly realized it was not in his best interest to read from teleprompters, which is often standard in his field. This may be seen as a setback for many people, but this was just the beginning of adapting against the odds for Street.
While in college, Street worked for WAFB, a local news station here in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He initially worked on the audio team for the weekend morning show, and by the time he graduated in 1994, he was running the audio for WAFB. However, this is when reality set in for Street. A little before starting school, Mr. Street’s father had become sick. Being that he is a family oriented man, he wanted to stay as close to home as possible. In this career field in order to move up with adequate pay, you have to move a lot. Running the audio for WAFB, Mr. Street was making on average $9-$10/ hour, whereas in Atlanta the pay could basically triple. Nevertheless, compromises were made and he was able to find his outlet and continue his journey.
Mr. Street’s acting career began when he realized that in order to truly understand and master his field, he “had to get into the acting world.” He initially started slowly by taking smaller roles, working his way up to roles in films such as Waiting For Angels, Creepin’ With The Deacon and He Watches Over Me. To someone entering the field, Street strongly recommends getting a mentor and acting coach.
In conversation with the Digest, Street went on to say that he is a goal setting person. He is very specific with his goals no matter how big or how small. He emphasizes that It is always good to have others in your corner who have experienced the similar life events, in order to help keep you on the right path with fewer distractions.
Orlando Eric Street: be on the lookout for that name as he continues to blossom. You can also catch him on nationwide broadcasted commercials and series such as A House Divided, Paradise Lost, and much more. Good Luck Mr. Street on all your goals and endeavors!