Sonal Shah: “Scrubs” actress
Sonal Shah is a 2002 Loyola grad who majored in theatre and had minors in psychology, biology, and chemistry. Although she was pre-med, she opted not to go to medical school after realizing that her passion for performing outweighed her passion for wanting to be a doctor. Instead, she hoped that one day she would have the honor of playing one on TV. This dream came true when she recently played intern Dr. Sunny Dey as part of a recurring role on “Scrubs.”
An active member of the Asian-American community, Sonal emceed the 2009 Chicago Foundation for Women’s Asian American Leadership Council Achievement Awards. She was also a guest lecturer at Harvard University as part of the South Asian Association Lecture Series and a panelist at the 2009 Kriti Festival (the Midwest’s South Asian Literary Festival).
What is the most enduring lesson you learned at Loyola?
To be of service to others. I went on an immersion trip to Belize with the Ministry Center and was overcome by Loyola energy–positive, pure, and strong. I also learned to be courageous, to follow my dream, and which coffee to drink for all-night study sessions!
What is your favorite memory of Loyola?
So many to choose from! I was honored to give the student commencement speech when I graduated. That was awesome! Also, I loved every experience with the theatre department as well as with Alpha Sigma Alpha. Above everything though, if I must say… my favorite memory is definitely the people. I am grateful for the friends I made there.
If you could go back to school, what Loyola course would you take? Why?
Ha! I took way more courses than I needed to because I changed my career goals halfway through! Hmm… If I could go back, I’d take a business/entrepreneur type course since being an actor is like having your own business.
Where was your favorite place on campus?
I must say the theater…even when it was empty. It houses an engaging energy full of vibrant creativity, peace, and magic. I immediately felt a surge of familiarity and excitement every time I walked in. I felt really alive in it. I know I’m a bit cheesy!
Why did you decide to become an actor?
The fact that I’m crazy! Honestly though, I’m a huge goofball, and I have always aimed to make people laugh. I’ve always desired to create, connect, inspire, heal, and for me, acting is also a spiritual discovery. I’ve been a performer my whole life and I absolutely love it. It wasn’t just one thing, but definitely all of my random life experiences that propelled me to become an actor.
What’s the most interesting part of your job?
I cannot plan anything. I need to keep my schedule free to attend an audition or a booking at anytime. It’s a roller coaster and constant challenge. Thus, I am always living in the moment. Also, no matter how hard I work, nothing is guaranteed, but it is possible. It’s that small possibility that makes all of the struggling worth it!
What is the greatest piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Everything taught to me by my parents! A few that stand out are: always be positive…what’s done is done and can’t be undone…never give up…live without regret…always be grateful…never complain…it’s what you make of it…everything happens for a reason. Can you tell I’m indecisive?!
If someone made a movie of your life would it be a drama, a comedy, a romantic-comedy, action film, or science fiction?
It would be a complex dramady. Yes, lots of funny moments will abound (I’ve had way too many crazy experiences), but I believe the film will have the depth and heart of a true drama as well.
Describe your perfect day.
Wow. That is a hard question. I guess that one example of a perfect day for me would be one in which I could perform, my parents are there (because I love them so much), and I squeezed in a morning hike (or yoga) and a delicious Indian dinner after!
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go, and why?
Italy. Again. I studied at the John Felice Rome Center and I would love to go back. I love Italy…the food, mountains, history, architecture, romanticism, language, culture, vibrancy, people, fashion, wine, energy…ok, now I’m excited! Buy me a ticket!
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
I jump out of bed with a smile every morning. I hope to be able to share love, peace, and laughter with everyone I can. I hope to learn something new and give back. I wake up and call my parents…we have a magical relationship. They are absolutely incredible, supportive, loving, understanding, and I talk to them at least 5 times a day. I couldn’t do anything without them.
What’s your favorite Chicago pizza place?
Lou Malnatis! Every time I come home, my dad buys me frozen pizzas and I bring them back to LA in my suitcase! I love how Chicagoans root for their fave pizza place as if it were a sport team (I’m a Cubs fan, by the way).
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Dancing like a fool. I know I’d win a freestyle dance-off with most anyone (unless they’ve been on Dancing with the Stars). I love to dance and I love to make people laugh at (or with?) my dancing! Can you tell I’m slightly confident about my dancing!?
Which one best describes you in college: athlete, intellectual, artist, young professional, activist, or social butterfly?
Intellectual, artist, young professional, and social butterfly. Does that count? I’m pretty complex (hee hee). As a pre-med student, I loved to study and spent hours everyday in the library. After I switched my major to theatre, I spent my days rehearsing, painting sets, reading plays, designing, dancing, singing, etc.