Q&A with Jared Alfaro
Why did you choose to attend the University of Mississippi?
I chose to come to Ole Miss because of the beautiful campus, the amazing staff, and the kind students. I first visited Ole Miss when I came for the Mid-South Honor Band. I was in awe when I saw how beautiful the campus was. The Faculty and students were positive and created a welcoming environment. They provided so much information, which really made my decision easy. I am so glad I came to Ole Miss because it truly feels like home!
I chose to come to Ole Miss because of the beautiful campus, the amazing staff, and the kind students. I first visited Ole Miss when I came for the Mid-South Honor Band. I was in awe when I saw how beautiful the campus was. The Faculty and students were positive and created a welcoming environment. They provided so much information, which really made my decision easy. I am so glad I came to Ole Miss because it truly feels like home!
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?
As a music major, you must be prepared and flexible. Many of the classes and ensembles require preparation. That does not mean that it has to be perfect. When going to class, be prepared to the best of your ability. This allows for the learning process to be easier. You must also be flexible by being able to adapt to new techniques and methods. This allows you to learn and become a better musician.
As a music major, you must be prepared and flexible. Many of the classes and ensembles require preparation. That does not mean that it has to be perfect. When going to class, be prepared to the best of your ability. This allows for the learning process to be easier. You must also be flexible by being able to adapt to new techniques and methods. This allows you to learn and become a better musician.
Why is your department a special place?
The music department is so special because of the many opportunities to create music with faculty and students. One of the biggest things in the music department is collaboration. Not only do we collaborate within our own ensembles, but we also get to collaborate with different conductors and ensembles. There have been many instances where the band, choir, and orchestra collaborate with each other. Collaboration allows for so many learning opportunities as well as opportunities to create beautiful music alongside other people.
The music department is so special because of the many opportunities to create music with faculty and students. One of the biggest things in the music department is collaboration. Not only do we collaborate within our own ensembles, but we also get to collaborate with different conductors and ensembles. There have been many instances where the band, choir, and orchestra collaborate with each other. Collaboration allows for so many learning opportunities as well as opportunities to create beautiful music alongside other people.
What professor or class has had the most impact on you?
My favorite class that I’ve taken so far is Music History 2 with Dr. Thomas Peattie. Dr. Peattie is very passionate about his field of study, and it really shows in his lectures. I have learned so much about music and the importance of historical context. I have gained a deep appreciation of music history because of Dr. Peattie.
My favorite class that I’ve taken so far is Music History 2 with Dr. Thomas Peattie. Dr. Peattie is very passionate about his field of study, and it really shows in his lectures. I have learned so much about music and the importance of historical context. I have gained a deep appreciation of music history because of Dr. Peattie.
What do you hope to do after graduation? What are your career goals/plans?
After graduation, I plan on becoming a band director in public schools. My ultimate goal is to get my DMA in conducting.
After graduation, I plan on becoming a band director in public schools. My ultimate goal is to get my DMA in conducting.
What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you’d tell your past self (about the general college experience)?
I wish I knew more about time management. My freshman year, I struggled so much with balancing schoolwork, ensembles, and my social life. Over time, I figured out a way to schedule and plan ahead. I also learned that sometimes I can say no to opportunities in order to allow me to focus more on current projects.
I wish I knew more about time management. My freshman year, I struggled so much with balancing schoolwork, ensembles, and my social life. Over time, I figured out a way to schedule and plan ahead. I also learned that sometimes I can say no to opportunities in order to allow me to focus more on current projects.
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