Actor Edvin Ortega: Benefiting From the School of Life Daily

by Cyrus Webb

After appearing on programs like The Jersey Devil, Blue Bloods and Orange Is the New Black, actor Edvin Ortega knows what it's like to do the kind of work you love and see your dreams come true in the process.

"It's been an incredible journey," he told me as we reflected on his journey in the industry. "I have done things I never thought I would be able to do." Starting his career in music that opened up the door for him to do what he sees as his passion. "Some of the things I am doing now are things I wished for."

As his star continues to rise year by year he is showing other people what is possible for them. "I definitely want to be someone who people can look to and say that if he did it then I can, too. Anything is possible. You can be successful. All you have to do is work hard and know what you want and go for it." In many ways Edvin still sees himself as a kid that came out of nowhere and made something out of himself. The key for him has been to always strive to go for what he wants and is passionate about."

Associating with those who share his drive and determination has also played a major role in his career. "Association is super important," Edvin says. "Watching those who came before you makes you want to step up your game up and be better. It's like going to school. I see it as a learning experience and a privilege."

It seems the one thing that is still an adjustment for the rising star is the idea of having fans. "It's great," he says. "I have had people come up to me and say 'I just saw you' in this or that. It's kind of surreal. He then added: "I think I tend to be a little shy, but its a good thing."

Edvins's advice for anyone with a goal or dream is this: "Be a doer. Surround yourself with positive people. If you hang around negative people too much you'll become negative. You also have to know what you want. It has to be motivating enough for you not to stop regardless of the obstacles that come your way.

"You've got to have a passion that touches you no matter what you're doing to keep going and keep trying.  When you set a goal that is important enough to you, you'll get there. If you want something bad enough you will get it. It's just a question of how."

Stay connected with Edvin on Facebook at www.facebook.com/iamEdvinOrtega and on Twitter @ www.twitter.com/iamedvinortega.