Looking back, Hasan Minhaj was, well... just Hasan. You knew the guy. You liked the guy. Quiet and smart on the outside, witty and friendly within his circle of peers. President of the the Future Business Leaders, member of Kiwanis, the Academic Decathalon, and Peer Helpers.
Perhaps it's now he deserves recognition for "Most Changed"?
It's been seven years since high school. Hasan Minhaj isn't a doctor. He's not a teacher. He's not into politics or architecture. He's still not a football superstar. Nope. Hasan Minhaj is a comedian. Seriously.
After high school, Hasan enrolled in UC Davis. He studied medicine, hoping to shine as a doctor like his parents wanted. But something happened his freshman year. Something that changed his life forever.
Minding his own business while waiting for a friend to get ready, he took a seat on the couch. On the television was a stand up comedy special. A common occurence for most of us, Hasan saw it differently.
"I saw a standup special at a friend's place, thought it was really cool, gave it a try and stuck with it," he said. And by sticking with it, Hasan Minhaj landed himself the role of Seth on "State of Georgia" starring Raven Symone.
After that fateful day at his buddy's, Hasan phoned the local comedy club asking for a time slot. He was told he needed experience and head shots first, so he immediately explored open mic opportunities all over Sacramento and San Francisco. Check out the video below to hear Hasan speak about his first phone call.
With a degree and experience in hand, Hasan moved to San Francisco to hone his craft. Once comfortable with his talents, he was ready for a bigger challenge.
"After about a year or so I moved to LA and landed a showcase for NBC. Since then, things have been pretty good for me," says Hasan.
NBC later added him to the National College Touring Company where he spent two years traveling to campuses all over the nation to perform. In addition to his role on "State of Georgia", Hasan is a member of the MTV prank show, "Disaster Date."
Though he's on his way to stardom, he still finds time to connect with former Blue Devils.
"[Andrew Behrens and I] have known each other since pre-school and [today] we make short films together," he says. "I'd love to see more people from DHS."
As for a final thought, Hasan Minhaj had this to offer:
"I found a passion and a career path that I was willing to go all in for. I figured I started early enough, if I just stick with it, I'll find my way."
That or, he'll "go to law school in hopes of relinquishing his dignity and parents' love."
Congratulations Hasan, and here's to a successful career. Break a leg friend.
For more information on Hasan, check out his website, Hasanminhaj.com
