She began acting at the age of 5, when she appeared in Allegra's Window, a Nick Jr. children's television program show taped at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida.

[6] The Annie, the 20th Anniversary tour ran across the United States and Canada from October 1997 through June 1998,[3] during which time Ludwick gave eight performances per week.

"[6] Characterized at that time as "bright, bubbly and [bringing] a sparkle wherever she goes," Ludwick additionally made the honor roll in Hillsborough County's program for gifted students in 1998.

[3] A year later, Ludwick became a spokesperson for Kids with a Cause,[7] a youth organization based in California dedicated to improving the quality of life of children who suffer from poverty, lack of education, or health-related issues.

Tessa has also appeared on a special "7th Graders" edition of the game show Weakest Link, where she made it to the final round and won $77,000 against Jill.