Alumni Spotlight: Dakota Heath ’25 on Stranger Things and Following Big Opportunities
Some moments stop you in your tracks and for Dakota Heath, Class of 2025, one of those moments came while scrolling Instagram. When Stranger Things shared a post from the show, Dakota did not expect to see herself in the frame. But there she was on one of her favorite shows and officially part of the Stranger Things universe. Now a freshman at the University of Mississippi, Dakota’s journey into the film and television world started long before this moment.
From FPD to the Screen
Dakota Heath graduated from First Presbyterian Day School in 2025 and has been working as a background actor for years, appearing in productions like Cobra Kai, The Wonder Years, and Grosse Pointe Garden Society. Acting was not a side hobby. It was something she consistently pursued through auditions, fittings, and filming days.
So when the opportunity to work on Stranger Things came along, it felt especially meaningful. “Being a part of Stranger Things was so great since it is one of my favorite shows,” Dakota shared. Seeing herself in the show’s official Instagram post was a surprise, even to her. Sometimes the behind the scenes sacrifices finally make sense in hindsight.
I was honestly really surprised to see that I made it onto the post they shared. At least now everyone understands my drastic hairstyle change during senior year since I could not explain why until the show aired.”
How the Opportunity Happened
Dakota applied to be a regular extra, but casting had something more specific in mind. “They liked my look, so they cast me as a featured extra as Stacey’s friend.” It was a reminder that preparation and persistence matter, even when the outcome is uncertain.
A New Perspective on the Industry
Watching the show from the inside changed how Dakota views television. 
Getting to see them act in person definitely affected how I watched the show. It gave me so much more respect for the actors and the work that goes into it. It was such a cool experience and I am so thankful I got the chance.”
The Support That Made It Possible
Balancing school with filming schedules is not easy. Fittings and filming days often meant missed classes and shifting deadlines, but Dakota never navigated that alone.
Throughout her time at FPD, Matt Kitchell consistently helped coordinate with teachers, think through decisions, and weigh the balance between academics and opportunity.
“Every time I had opportunities to work on shows, it was never certain how many days I would be out of school. Mr. Kitchell always helped by coordinating with my teachers and helping me think through my options. I could not have done it without his support.”
A Story Still Unfolding
Dakota Heath’s experience is a powerful example of what happens when students are encouraged to pursue their passions and when educators walk alongside them as guides.
We are proud to celebrate Dakota Heath and look forward to seeing where her story leads next.
Once a Viking, always a Viking.