Sam attended Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois, where he followed a unique and self-created educational path embracing music, theater, advertising, psychology and design. Upon completion of his undergraduate studies, he earned simultaneous bachelor's degrees in advertising (where he won a 1991 Adams Advertising Award) and theater arts. Sam went on to earn an MFA in acting from the University of Florida, where he was named outstanding graduate student of the year in 1996, and also served as a faculty adviser, dean's council member and instructor.
Named to the Who's Who Among University Professors in 2005, Sam has taught the craft of acting and directing at St. John's University, Portland Community College, The Art Institute of Portland, University of Central Florida, University of Florida, Rollins College, and The College of St. Benedict. He has also presented at the American Theatre in Higher Education Conference in New York City, and helped to establish the growing film program at the Art Institute of Portland.