Why did you choose to attend UM?
I decided to attend the University of Mississippi on a whim! I did not realize how dedicated the professors and staff were in helping me become the best musician I could be until I auditioned. I was able to meet the band directors and clarinet professor, which was such an encouraging experience. The final factor in my decision was listening to the UM Wind Ensemble perform in their stellar concert. The dedication to musicality gained my respect and made me realize this is where I wanted to study.
I decided to attend the University of Mississippi on a whim! I did not realize how dedicated the professors and staff were in helping me become the best musician I could be until I auditioned. I was able to meet the band directors and clarinet professor, which was such an encouraging experience. The final factor in my decision was listening to the UM Wind Ensemble perform in their stellar concert. The dedication to musicality gained my respect and made me realize this is where I wanted to study.
What would you tell a high school student about your major? What is most important for them to know if they are interested in pursuing that field of study?
Becoming a music education major is a great opportunity to explore what aspects of music you enjoy the most and better develop your craft. I have met so many people who come to college thinking that they know exactly which path they want to pursue and ultimately end up going in a completely different direction. Ensembles are not only an amazing outlet for musicality but are also awesome for discovering new genres that you will want to pursue as a director and/or teacher. Don’t be afraid to talk with a professor or advisor about which ensembles will best aid you in your music journey.
Becoming a music education major is a great opportunity to explore what aspects of music you enjoy the most and better develop your craft. I have met so many people who come to college thinking that they know exactly which path they want to pursue and ultimately end up going in a completely different direction. Ensembles are not only an amazing outlet for musicality but are also awesome for discovering new genres that you will want to pursue as a director and/or teacher. Don’t be afraid to talk with a professor or advisor about which ensembles will best aid you in your music journey.
Why is your department a special place?
The music department at Ole Miss is filled with both amazing students and faculty who build each other up continuously!
The music department at Ole Miss is filled with both amazing students and faculty who build each other up continuously!
What class or professor has had the most impact on you?
My clarinet studio professor, Dr. Michael Rowlett, has definitely impacted me the most during my time here. His positive and encouraging outlook on lessons has pushed me to enjoy my practice sessions and has directed me towards becoming a better musician.
My clarinet studio professor, Dr. Michael Rowlett, has definitely impacted me the most during my time here. His positive and encouraging outlook on lessons has pushed me to enjoy my practice sessions and has directed me towards becoming a better musician.
What do you hope to do after graduation? What are your career goals/plans?
After graduation with my bachelor’s, I want to pursue a master’s degree in music. My goal is to become a high school band director and continue to teach other kids the beauty of music to the highest degree possible.
After graduation with my bachelor’s, I want to pursue a master’s degree in music. My goal is to become a high school band director and continue to teach other kids the beauty of music to the highest degree possible.
What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you'd tell your past self (about the general college experience)?
College is an opportunity to connect with not only other students but also your faculty. Looking back, I wish that I had really taken the opportunity to connect with my freshman-year professors. Making those connections can not only improve your grades but will also give you small networking opportunities in the department and throughout the University.
College is an opportunity to connect with not only other students but also your faculty. Looking back, I wish that I had really taken the opportunity to connect with my freshman-year professors. Making those connections can not only improve your grades but will also give you small networking opportunities in the department and throughout the University.
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