Directory

Hometown

• Spring Valley, Ohio

What do you like most about your major?

What I love most about my major is it is inclusive to every part of music. In Music Education, you not only get to learn about your instrument, but every other instrument and other disciplines like general music and working with students with disabilities. I've gotten to learn so much more about what I want to do in my future career and that's all thanks to my major.

What do you love most about UD?

UD is one of the most inclusive places on campus. No matter where you go, or what you do, you see a lot people. The joy we all bring to campus is unmatched anywhere else. I love when I get to be at the football games in the marching band and play for the amazing crowds that show up. Or even getting to play music for the general public of UD and seeing them enjoy the concerts. It makes me smile so wide I can't sometimes contain my excitement.

Favorite class at UD and why?

It's Music 302 or Ethics and U.S. Popular Music. Dr. Dorf is one of the funniest human being ever. He engages the class but also recognizes the fact we are students. He is so caring and nice and you talk a lot about music from the 20th century onward. It was such an engaging class I wish I could take it again.

What piece of your academic journey has most prepared you to begin a career after graduation?

Being a Teaching Assistant with the University Concert Band. I got this opportunity as an offer from the director of the band and took it on. I got to work directly with a band on a piece and that created a major help in what I wanted to do. I got to learn so much about the behind the scenes of being a concert band director including programming music, printing and copy music, working directly with the band, communicating with the band and conducting. I got so much out of it. I thank the director for giving me that opportunity.

What clubs/organizations are you involved in at UD?

• Pride of Dayton Marching Band 
• Symphonic Wind Ensemble
• University Jazz Band 
• University Concert Band
• Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia 
• Ohio Collegiate Music Education Association

Why did you choose UD?

I chose UD because taking a tour here on campus was unmatched. What made it special was the connection I felt during my audition day here. I got to hear from the Recruitment Coordinator that they were on my side and that we were a family, and that couldn't be more true. Being at UD, I've gotten to know so many people in music and connect with them and then getting to be apart of groups like the Pride of Dayton and Symphonic Wind Ensemble, I've gotten to know more people outside of my major and connect with them through music.

Is there anything else about your UD experience you think prospective students and their families should know?

Coming to UD was one of the best decisions I ever made. I couldn't be more grateful for the experience I've gotten here and can't thank the professors who have helped make it the best.