Ever since I was young, I’ve felt a magnetizing pull to music. I was always so emotionally connected to it; it was essential to me that I find a community of individuals who felt the same way I do about music, and I was willing to do anything to achieve that. Through experiencing just a few moments with Wichita State’s music faculty, I knew that this was my future “home away from home.”

Being from Rapid City, South Dakota (now living in Lakeland, Florida), proposing the idea to my parents of an out-of-state college so far away from both places was difficult. Again, I was willing to do anything to be surrounded by those who encouraged me and pushed me further to become a better performer, student and individual.

As a Vocal Music Education major, my passion for music education stems from the lack of community I had during my experiences in choir and band (though I only did band from seventh to ninth grade). Ironically, one may think that might deter me from pursuing this career, but instead, it only attracted me further. I truly believe my calling is to share the gift of music, and I value creating long-lasting connections.

During my senior year of high school, I was allowed to shadow our assistant choral director for the entire school year, and a flame started in my heart once I began working with the students in our freshman-level treble chorus. Though I was already committed to Wichita State before my senior year, it was then that I realized working with so many wonderful and kind students soothed and alleviated every fear I had about pursuing music education. I would have done absolutely anything for every single student in that classroom, and I understood that I needed to create and foster a loving environment that I never had the chance to experience with my future students.

My experience with Wichita State’s School of Music has been life-changing. The past year-and-a-half has been nothing short of bountiful for the opportunities I’ve received, the friendships I’ve fostered, the connections I’ve made and the faculty that have not only pushed me past my limitations but also supported and encouraged me through every step of the way. They have helped me figure out my independence and the trials of getting through my first years of undergraduate education. Alongside working as a member of the Student Ambassador Society, I currently work as a School of Music ambassador, sharing with other prospective music Shockers my experience and encouraging as many students as I can to join us at Wichita State.

When looking for colleges, all I can say is to take that leap and not be afraid of taking risks. I cannot see myself anywhere else other than Wichita State, and I have been supported endlessly with the opportunities I have been offered, even outside of music. Wichita State University has given me so many experiences that I would not have, and I’ve loved every second of it.