Conversations with Jerry Yin

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jerry Yin.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My story honestly started with my faith in God. Growing up in the foster care system, life wasn’t always easy. There were moments when I didn’t know what my future would look like or where life would take me, my life couldve went a whole different direction, But looking back now, I truly believe God was preparing me for something bigger than I could ever imagine.

My faith has always been a huge part of who I am. I believe God gives each of us a purpose, and for me, one of those purposes is storytelling through acting. I want to be able to inspire people, make them laugh, make them feel something, and hopefully show someone out there that no matter where you come from, your circumstances don’t have to define your future.

When I first started pursuing acting, I didn’t have everything figured out. I was playing junior college football and me playing background characters were there to help pay the bill while I was chasing a dream to play D1 football. While getting recruited for football, I just knew I had a dream that is outside of sports, and I was willing to work for it. I started taking opportunities, learning from every set I stepped onto, and surrounding myself with people who helped me grow. Throughout my journey, God has opened doors that I never thought would be possible.

I’ve been blessed to work on productions like All American, Lanterns, and Beast Games, along with commercials for brands like Nike, Walmart, Skechers, and Visa. I got to travel the world, Every opportunity has taught me something different, and I never want to take any of it for granted.

Today, I’m continuing my journey as an actor, stunt performer, model, and college football player while studying Theatre at Azusa Pacific University. Balancing everything hasn’t been easy, and there have definitely been sacrifices. But I remind myself that I’m not doing this just for success or recognition. I want to use whatever platform God gives me to inspire others and give back to my community.

My dream is to one day become a leading actor in Hollywood, walk the red carpet, and see myself on the big screen. But more importantly, I want to remain the same person who started this journey with nothing but faith, a dream, and the willingness to keep going. I want someone, Kid or adult, see me as a role model and inspire them to be great,

I’m still learning, still growing, and nowhere near where I want to be. But I know how far God has brought me, and I trust where He’s taking me next.

At the end of the day, I want my story to be proof that your past doesn’t determine your future, and when God opens a door, no one can shut it.

I would also love to shout out to my coaches and teammates at Azusa pacific, they are very important to me and I’m blessed to have their supports

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Honestly, no, it hasn’t been a smooth road. Growing up in the foster care system, I’ve faced a lot of challenges, from financial struggles to moments where I questioned myself and my future. Pursuing acting hasn’t been easy either. There’s a lot of rejection, sacrifices, and uncertainty that comes with this industry.

Balancing college football, school, and my acting career has also been challenging. There are days when I’m physically and mentally exhausted, but I remind myself why I started.

Through everything, my faith in God has kept me going. I’ve learned that not everything happens on my timeline, and sometimes the hardest seasons are the ones that help us grow the most. I’m still learning and facing challenges today, but I truly believe God has a plan for me, and I trust Him every step of the way.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m currently an actor, stunt performer, model, college football player, and Theatre student at Azusa Pacific University. I’ve been blessed to work on projects like All American, Lanterns, Sidelined 2, and Beast Games, along with commercials for brands like Nike, Walmart, Visa, Skechers, and more.

Outside of acting, I play offensive guard for APU’s football team. Football has taught me discipline, leadership, and hard work, which I carry into my acting career. I also run my own business, 626 Self Tape, where I help other actors prepare and record their auditions.

What I’m most proud of is how far I’ve come despite my upbringing in foster care. I think what sets me apart is my versatility, determination, and faith in God. Balancing football, school, acting, modeling, and running a business isn’t easy, but I genuinely love what I do.

My ultimate dream is to become a leading actor in Hollywood, I am blessed to be with my awesome agent that has been developing me and making me better. I want to use my platform to inspire others. I give all the glory to God because without Him, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My biggest advice is to be yourself, stay humble, and build genuine relationships. Networking isn’t just about what someone can do for you, but also about how you can support others. I’ve been blessed to meet amazing people through acting, football, school, and being on set who have helped me grow personally and professionally.

What’s worked best for me is putting myself out there, asking questions, being willing to learn, and treating everyone with respect, no matter their position. You never know who God might place in your life.

When it comes to finding a mentor, find someone who genuinely wants to see you grow and isn’t afraid to challenge you, someone that is willing to call you out when you are not focused. Most importantly, be patient, stay consistent, and trust God’s timing. Sometimes the best opportunities come from relationships you never expected.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerryyinnn/
• Twitter: https://www.tiktok.com/@jerryinnn
• Youtube: https://youtu.be/-lIwzLsyYAY?si=SYNWB26rS_WCr4Fw