Wichita State University senior Reese Byers is gaining hands-on teaching experience as a mentor with Wichita Symphony Youth Orchestras. The program brings orchestral music to young musicians throughout south-central Kansas while helping them develop their skills and appreciation for music.

Byers, who is studying music education and plans to graduate in spring 2027, helps students strengthen their musical knowledge and abilities while assisting directors with individualized instruction.

Through this experience, Byers has become more comfortable as an instructor and developed a greater understanding of how to teach groups of students.

“It has made me more excited to get into the real world and start teaching, so that I can show students how exciting music is,” Byers said.

She has also learned the importance of thinking on her feet and addressing problems that may arise during rehearsals. Just as importantly, she has discovered that building connections with students is essential to their enjoyment and success.

The experience has strengthened Byers’ confidence in providing instruction and guidance to young musicians while managing the needs of a group. One of her favorite parts of the role is watching students discover their own love of music.

“After our concert last semester, I had a student who discovered how amazing performing can be,” Byers said. “That made me so happy because she was discovering the reason why so many musicians enjoy it and stick with it.”

Working with Wichita Symphony Youth Orchestras has allowed Byers to apply what she has learned in the classroom to a professional teaching environment. Support from the State of Kansas Applied Learning Fund has also allowed her to focus on the experience without taking on an additional job.

“I was able to focus on my career path by working with the students in Wichita Symphony Youth Orchestras, while also not having to get another part-time job to make ends meet,” Byers said.

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Wichita State's applied learning program gives students hands-on, paid experience with industry partners, helping them build careers before graduation.

For more information, contact the Shocker Career Accelerator at (316) 978-3688, SCA@wichita.edu, or visit wichita.edu/Career. You can also stop by in person at the Marcus Welcome Center, Suite 139, on the Wichita State campus.