Alyssa Serio, Author at Beating Broke

15 Actors Under 30 That Are About to Hit the Big Time

June 12, 2024 By Alyssa Serio Leave a Comment

The film and television industry is always on the lookout for fresh talent, and a new generation of actors is poised to take the spotlight. These young stars have shown exceptional skill, charisma, and dedication to their craft. Don’t be surprised when they’re the next big names in Hollywood! Here are 15 actors under 30 who are on the verge of becoming household names.

1. Florence Pugh

At just 25, Florence Pugh has seen her star on the rise in recent years. Horror fans first got a glimpse of her in the groundbreaking, A24 film Midsommar. Since then, Pugh has earned critical acclaim for her roles in films like Little Women and Oppenheimer. With her talent for portraying complex characters and major upcoming roles, Pugh is set to become one of the best actresses in Hollywood.

2. Timothée Chalamet

Timothée Chalamet has a legion of fans who are excited for his every move. He made a name for himself in indie fare such as the Academy Award winner, Call Me By Your Name. Now he’s on the rise in mainstream Hollywood in major blockbusters like Wonka and Dune. Known for his deep emotional portrayals and unique choice of roles, Chalamet continues to choose projects that challenge him and excite audiences. As far as actors under 30, he has a promising career ahead.

3. Zendaya

From a Disney star to a leading lady in both television and film, Zendaya has proven her versatility as an actress, especially in recent years. Fans loved seeing her in Spider-Man and millions of viewers turned to the hit TV show, “Euphoria.” However, it’s Zendaya’s star-making turn in the buzzy film Challengers that has put her on the map. Her ability to tackle diverse roles with authenticity makes her one of the most-watched young talents in the industry.

4. Tom Holland

Spider-Man movies have made stars of many actors like Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield. Many Marvel enthusiasts swear that it’s Tom Holland who is the best in the role of the famous web-slinger. Holland has also shown he’s more than a superhero actor with performances in films like The Impossible, Cherry, and Uncharted. As an actor, he always combines charm and serious emotional range, promising a long and successful career.

5. Anya Taylor-Joy

One of the most talked about horror thriller movies in recent memory was The Menu released in 2022. Who can forget that iconic burger scene? Anya Taylor-Joy is the star of that film, carrying the weight of humor and tension on her shoulders. In addition to The Menu, Taylor-Joy has also starred in other notable projects like The Queen’s Gambit and Furiosa. Her captivating screen presence and ability to dive deep into her characters signal a promising future.

6. Barry Keoghan

If you haven’t heard the name Barry Keoghan just yet, get ready to become familiar with this young up-and-coming star. Keoghan’s intense performances in The Killing of a Sacred Deer and Dunkirk have established him as a powerful character actor. It was his role in Saltburn, however, that really got the world’s attention. Look out for Keoghan in many exciting new projects in the future.

7. Jharrel Jerome

Do you tune in each year for the Oscars? You may remember the fiasco where Moonlight was named Best Picture over La La Land. Jharrel Jerome was in the latter film, putting him on the map as a serious actor. He also recently won an Emmy for his portrayal in “When They See Us,” marking him as a standout actor of his generation.

8. Kaitlyn Dever

Hulu has been struggling to release original content that keeps up with Netflix. Through word of mouth, the alien horror movie No One Will Save You put the streaming platform on the map. Much credit for its success goes to the groundbreaking performance by Kaitlyn Dever who doesn’t utter one line of dialogue in the entire film. This role comes on the tail of her star-making performance in the 2019 comedy, Booksmart.

9. Lucas Hedges

Hollywood needs actors under 30 who show a lot of range. In recent years, Lucas Hedges has been the go-to person thanks to acclaim in Academy Award nominated movies like Manchester by the Sea and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. His ability to portray complex emotional characters positions him as a future powerhouse in dramatic cinema. It’s exciting to see where he will go next.

10. Lana Condor

Representation in Hollywood has been a hot button issue in recent years. Lana Condor, the star of the popular romantic comedy To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, helped springboard a trend in Asian-led comedies. Her charming performance and the film’s success have paved the way for sequels as well as even more leading roles. You can also catch her in the ABC Network hit TV series, “Abbot Elementary.”

11. Jacob Tremblay

People first witnessed Jacob Tremblay’s emotional range in the 2015 movie Room where he played a boy born into captivity. Since then, Tremblay has been a star on the rise landing roles in movies like Doctor Sleep and lending his voice acting talents to the titular character in Pixar film, Luca. The young actor continues to choose interesting roles as he matures as a performer. An Oscar may just be in his future.

12. Millie Bobby Brown

Nielsen reports that the fourth season of “Stranger Things” was only the third title to hit the 5 billion viewer mark in 2022. This retro feeling, sci-fi hit series on Netflix put many young actors under 30 on the map, including Millie Bobby Brown. She earned fame for playing Eleven in the show, and since then, her career has rapidly expanded. Fans can see Brown in blockbuster movies like Godzilla vs. Kong and Enola Holmes.

13. Amandla Stenberg

For fans of The Hunger Games, you may remember the cute, curly-haired girl who played fan favorite, Rue. That’s Amandla Stenberg, a rising star in Hollywood, continuing to star in popular adaptations of teen fiction. In recent years, Stenberg has earned praise for roles in movies like The Hate U Give and Everything, Everything. Her career is marked by a commitment to diversity and impactful storytelling.

14. Finn Wolfhard

It’s no small feat to star in the highest grossing horror film of all time. Finn Wolfhard rose to the challenge, starring in a breakout role in the 2017 remake of IT. With his breakout role in “Stranger Things,” it was a natural transition for Wolfhard to enter the twisted mind of Stephen King. This actor continues to take interesting roles such as his recent appearances in the new Ghostbusters movies.

15. Hailee Steinfeld

Hollywood takes notice of young actors who are nominated for Oscars. Hailee Steinfeld earned this accolade by starring in the 2010 Western film, True Grit. Over a decade later she’s become a multi-hyphenate, continuing to take interesting acting roles as well as releasing hit pop songs on the radio. Her performances in The Edge of Seventeen and in Bumblebee showcase her dynamic presence and promise for continued success in the industry.

Stars on the Rise

These young actors represent the future of the film and television industry. We’ve enjoyed their in impressive early work and look forward to exciting projects on the horizon. Each young man and woman on this list is destined to make the Hollywood Walk of Fame. It’s exciting to see which roles they take on next!

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Alyssa Serio

Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.

10 State Colleges With Degrees That Are Worth More Than Any Ivy League Degree

June 11, 2024 By Alyssa Serio Leave a Comment

When it comes to higher education, the allure of Ivy League schools is undeniable. They are often equated with prestige, superior education, and a fast track to successful careers. However, several state colleges across the United States offer degrees that rival—or even surpass—Ivy League schools. Here are 10 state colleges where the value of certain degrees exceeds those of their Ivy League counterparts.

1. Georgia Institute of Technology (Computer Science)

Georgia Tech’s Computer Science program stands out nationally for its rigorous curriculum and strong industry ties. Graduates go on to pursue careers in software development and engineering. Often, they start out receiving higher starting salaries compared to their Ivy League peers. The program’s focus on practical, hands-on experience prepares students exceptionally well for real-world challenges.

2. Texas A&M University (Petroleum Engineering)

At Texas A&M, the Petroleum Engineering degree offers one of the highest returns on investment in the field. The university’s close connections with the energy sector provide unparalleled opportunities for internships and job placements. Graduates frequently secure positions with lucrative salaries that significantly exceed those of similar graduates from Ivy League schools. It’s a worthwhile field for anyone interested in higher learning.

3. University of California, Berkeley (Business Administration)

Do you want to go to college in a warm state? UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business consistently ranks among the top business schools in the world. The Bachelor in Business Administration program gives its graduates entrepreneurial skills and innovative thinking skills that are unmatched. Many go on to get high-paying roles in Silicon Valley and beyond.

4. University of Michigan (Environmental Science)

Known for its championship-winning football team, The University of Michigan is one of the best state colleges in the United States. Thousands of students go to this school not only for their athletics but also for respected programs. Graduates from this school are highly sought after by both governmental agencies and private sectors for their expertise and practical experience. Moreover, they often command higher starting salaries than their Ivy League counterparts.

5. University of Florida (Real Estate)

If you love watching HGTV, then real estate could be a good field for you to enter. The University of Florida offers a highly specialized Real Estate program that provides students with deep insights into market analysis, real estate economics, and property management. You’ll come away from your education well-prepared for high stakes investments and positions in top real estate firms. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to be on campus in a place with beautiful weather.

6. University of Washington (Information Technology)

When it comes to your degree, it’s best to be in an area where there are guaranteed opportunities. The University of Washington is situated near tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon, providing a valuable environment for IT students. The program’s curriculum is tailored to meet the demands of the rapidly evolving tech industry. Through this education, graduates will feel even more job-ready than those going to an Ivy League school.

7. University of Virginia (Law)

According to the American Bar Association, there are over 100,000 law students in the United States. UVA’s School of Law is one of the most prestigious public law schools in the country. It boasts an impressive bar passage rate and employment statistics comparable or superior to those of Ivy League law schools. The combination of lower tuition costs and excellent employment outcomes makes its law degree highly sought after.

8. California State University, Maritime Academy (Marine Engineering)

There are many respected state colleges in California. The Marine Engineering program at Cal Maritime is highly respected for its rigorous training and hands-on learning approach. The program has high job placement rates and starting salaries that top those from more prestigious universities. Many consider this school a hidden gem for those interested in marine and ocean engineering.

9. Penn State University (Supply Chain Management)

After graduating high school, many students major in general Business because they’re not sure what else to do. For those who want to focus on a specific area, Penn State’s Smeal College of Business has one of the top-rated supply chain management programs in the country. The college’s strong network and industry connections ensure that graduates are in high demand. Many receive higher starting salaries than their peers from Ivy League institutions.

10. Arizona State University (Journalism)

Many argue that journalism is a dying field. However, the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University challenges that idea as being true. The school is highly regarded for its innovation in media studies and a strong emphasis on digital media skills. Graduates often find immediate employment in high-profile media positions, frequently out-earning Ivy League journalism graduates.

Higher Education

No one will laugh at you for graduating from an Ivy League school. However, if that’s just not in the cards, then these prestigious state colleges offer just as much value. You’ll get an excellent education and high earning potential by considering these degrees and programs. Students should consider their career goals and budget when deciding on where to go for higher education choices, but these schools are a safe bet.

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Alyssa Serio

12 Words That Are Surprisingly Not Recognized by Spell Check

June 11, 2024 By Alyssa Serio Leave a Comment

With websites like Grammarly, the rise of AI, and new versions of Microsoft Word that are savvier than ever, spell check is a fundamental tool in the digital age. Millions of people rely on this tool to write correctly and confidently, whether it’s for work, school, or just for fun. Even the most sophisticated spell-checking software can sometimes miss certain words from time to time. Here are 12 words that are often not recognized by spell check.

1. Irregardless

There’s a hot debate in the world of linguistics as to whether “irregardless” is actually a word. Irregardless, it is often used colloquially to mean “regardless,” despite it being non-standard. Somehow, we’ve adapted this common misspelling into our every writing and speech when we want to sound smarter and more refined. Spell check might not recognize it because it is considered incorrect in formal writing.

2. Heebie-Jeebies

Did you just watch a scary movie like Hereditary or Terrifier? You may come away from the film saying that it really gave you the “heebie-jeebies.” This phrase, which is a lighthearted way to refer to being scared, will be marked as incorrect if you use it in some versions of Microsoft Word. Go ahead and use it since it is recognized by the Oxford and Merriam-Webster dictionaries as being real.

3. Agastopia

If you think a man has nice biceps or a woman has attractive legs, you might say that you’re experiencing a feeling of agastopia. This noun, which has unclear origins, is recognized by most dictionaries to mean “admiration of a particular part of one’s body.” Still, online spell checkers won’t recognize the word as actually being real. Ignore those squiggly red lines and keep on writing.

4. Yassify

For the most part, spell check has a tough time recognizing modern slang. The word “yassify,” for instance, is always going to get flagged as an error. Teens use this word to refer to an extreme makeover or the process of applying so many filters to an image that a person becomes unrecognizable in a photo. As modern parlance changes, it will be interesting to see how word processors keep up.

5. Conjubilant

Technology isn’t perfect and not nearly as smart as the human mind. When you write the word “conjubilant” online, it’s always going to be marked as wrong. Google this word and you’ll see that it’s real, meaning “shouting together with joy.” We can all feel conjubilant that we learned a new, fun word to use in our celebrations.

6. Gobsmacked

Popular in British English, “gobsmacked” means utterly astonished. It may not be recognized by spell checkers that are calibrated to American English. This shows a fundamental flaw in this technology. Most of the time, they heavily favor American dialect and speech. For that reason, words from other countries aren’t always recognizable.

7. Ain’t

Most of us learned in elementary school that “ain’t” isn’t a word. However, that won’t stop us from using it in everyday speech and in creative, informal writing. Just like other words in our everyday language, we borrowed “ain’t” from the Irish and Scottish. The word is a contraction meaning “am” and “not” and is still popularly used in these countries to this day.

8. Yeet

Here’s another slang word that often befuddles spell check tools. If you hear a teenager say “yeet,” they’re saying that something is being thrown aggressively, usually in anger. The origins of this word are unclear, but it’s snuck into modern speech and digital communications. Time will tell if it becomes an official part of the dictionary.

9. Gonna

Just like “ain’t,” most modern spell checkers aren’t going to recognize the word “gonna” as being real. Years ago, people started using “gonna” as shorthand for “going to.” Remember, this isn’t the proper way to write if you’re turning in an essay for school or writing an email at work. In text messages, social media posts, and every conversation, “gonna” is totally fair game!

9. Jollux

Even back in the late 18th century, they used slang words in their everyday speech. Spell check isn’t going to recognize these words as being spelled correctly. For instance, “jollux” was found in a 1797 poem to refer to a fat person. Perhaps it’s the negative context of the word’s use that made it obsolete in the modern world.

10. Meldrop

Some words may be getting marked as wrong by spell check simply because they’re gross. Take the word “meldrop,” for example, which is used to mean “the drop of mucus at the nose.” You’ll get a meldrop if you’re suffering from a cold. Spell check just doesn’t believe this is a real thing.

12. Tittynope

In all reality, you likely read this word and immediately thought of something inappropriate. Surprisingly, you don’t need to turn to Urban Dictionary to find the meaning of this word. A “tittynope” is a noun that means “a small quantity of something left over,” such as food, paper, or cleaning supplies. Don’t be surprised if you get weird looks for using this real word in your writing or speech.

Check Your Spelling

Never take spell check as the end all be all when it comes to proper writing. This tool is a fantastic backup to use, but you should always rely on your own brain instead. After all, there are many words that spell check simply won’t recognize. Use your best judgment, double check your work, and look up words the old-fashioned way in the dictionary if needed.

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