There’s nothing like the feeling of turning on your television and seeing a face you recognize from high school. This is exactly what happened on Wednesday, Sept. 25. At 9 p.m. (EST) a new episode of Criminal Minds aired with an appearance from Ian Bamberg (‘11).

Before Bamberg graduated, he starred in a variety of productions here, including Hairspray, I Dream Before I Take The Stand, Bye Bye Birdie, and The Proposal.

Ms. Hansen, Ian’s former Drama teacher, taught him from grades 7 to 12.

“His mom asked me in 8th grade, ‘Do you think he could go far?’ and I told her I really thought he could,” Hansen said. “ He seemed like he really had the drive and he’s a talented kid’”

After graduation, Bamberg went to the New York Conservatory for a year. After that he moved to Los Angeles to study at The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to have great teachers, starting with Ms. Hansen and then in New York City and now here in L.A.,” Bamberg said. “Aside from that I really think that the act of just living–seeing different cities, meeting different people, and having crazy adventures–is not just a huge growing tool but really inspiration for myself. Everyone you meet has a story, and that’s where all the creative juices come from,” he said.

Bamberg’s two agents have helped him get appearances in a variety of movies, productions, and a commercial. His resume includes Another Cinderella Story: Once Upon a Song, Second Time Around, a Cox Cable commercial, and many others.

“He was always very focused,” Hansen said. “He really wanted critiques because he wanted to grow. He listened to directions and others which made it a pleasure to work with him. I think that is part of the reason he’s getting work now.”

Bamberg has two supporting leads coming in two films coming this fall: Warrior Road and Mischief Night.

“We filmed [Warrior Road] in Charleston, South Carolina. Everything about that trip was incredible and the cast and crew were great.” Bamberg said.

Ian watched the premiere with his other previous Drama teacher, Mr. Hainline, who now lives in L.A. Before the premiere of Criminal Minds, Ian texted Ms. Hansen “I love you Ms. Hansen, this couldn’t have happened without you.”

“I’m just happy that we’re a part of each others lives and stories. It’s good to know that he felt supported by what he learned here. I feel that about all my students. It’s like something that started here expanded to something bigger,” Hansen said.

“I wouldn’t be here without Ms. Hansen. She didn’t just tell me that I could do it, she showed me that it was really possible,” Bamberg said.