Campus Life

Heard on Campus: Karamo Brown

"Queer Eye" star Karamo Brown, right, appeared at Penn State on March 26 courtesy of the Student Programming Association. Credit: Alanna Powers. All Rights Reserved.

“Turn to your neighbor and say, ‘Neighbor, I am perfectly designed.’” 

This was the main message of Netflix’s "Queer Eye" star Karamo Brown, who visited University Park campus on Tuesday, March 26. Brown, who spent 10 years as a registered psychotherapist before joining the world of television, is now "Queer Eye"’s resident Culture Expert. Brown talked about how all of his acting attempts started with the a “no,” including "Queer Eye." He was the last one allowed to audition for the show, but ended up getting the part after immediately clicking with the other four members of the “fab five.” 

Brown also talked about the path to discovering himself, saying that he has always been proud of his identity, even when it wasn’t easy. Brown explained that he does not use the term “coming out,” but instead says “letting people in,” because he believes people should be allowed to set their own boundaries. 

Setting those boundaries is just one part in the journey of personal growth that Brown explained everyone is on, and is different for each person. He discussed the importance of maintaining the core parts of your identity, and understanding that each individual is going through their own challenges and triumphs just as you are.

Last Updated March 27, 2019