BME student ambassador: “interpersonal work + music”

Anonymous — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 07:00:00 +0000

BME student ambassador: “interpersonal work + music” Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 12/17/2021 - 00:00

Laynie Metsker

College of Music student ambassador and bassoonist Laynie Metsker—current Silver + Gold Scholarship recipient—recently shared with us and Future Buffs interested in music education her perspectives on our Bachelor of Music Education (BME) degrees:

I chose to go into education because the role of a music educator combines two things I adore: interpersonal work and music. I’ve always enjoyed interacting with people and my time as a band director—as well as my time spent studying to be one—are improving my leadership, teaching and social skills. Additionally, music has always been prevalent in my life and it has contributed greatly to my growth as a person. I want to share my love for music with students of my own so that they may reap the benefits of music, too.

��ý�Ļ��Ʒ’s music education program is special because it’s immersive from the beginning. Your field work starts in your first semester of your first year, when you’ll have opportunities to observe educators at work. In previous years, students have gone to nearby schools to observe classes live—because of the pandemic, we now get to watch video clips of educators leading rehearsal and then meet with those teachers over Zoom for a live interview!

Practicum will begin in your second year and you’ll have continuous chances to teach in the classroom throughout your degree. You’ll observe and teach in band, choir and orchestra settings so that you receive a well-rounded education as a result of your exposure to music education’s different tracks. Your degree ends after you spend your last semester student teaching full time.

The BME degree is a busy one but it’s manageable with prioritization skills. When I have time between classes, I try to knock out or make decent progress on my assignments … or I practice my bassoon in a nearby practice room. I also prefer to schedule all my classes in the morning so that I can have the evening to do homework and marching band and relax when I’m done. I also used my AP credits and acquired piano skills to test out of some of my classes, which has helped me to get ahead and create a more manageable schedule.

Being a music major requires accountability and the more of it you have, the easier your day-to-day life will be.

Sign up for a tour of our Imig Music Building, learn more about our BME degrees … and be sure to catch a College of Music performance while you’re on campus!

College of Music student ambassador and bassoonist Laynie Metsker recently shared with us—and Future Buffs—her perspectives on becoming a music educator.

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Student ambassador offers advice to incoming music buffs

Anonymous — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Student ambassador offers advice to incoming music buffs Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 11/23/2021 - 00:00

Eunjeong (EJ) Lee

College of Music student ambassador Eunjeong (EJ) Lee recently shared with us these insights on applying to the College of Music, ensuring a successful audition, getting involved, feeling supported and more:

What tips do you have for students applying to the College of Music?

The application and audition process can be stressful but always believe in yourself! And don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it from friends, family and teachers who care about you.

What’s your advice for students preparing for a successful audition?

Start preparing your audition materials as early as you can—time management is very important, especially for practicing.

What was the most helpful advice you got in preparing for your own audition?

Even if something doesn’t go the way you want it to, everything is going to work out in some way. Always be open-minded about your options.

In what way do you feel most supported at the College of Music?

As a student, I have huge support from College of Music faculty members. My professor, TAs, band directors and other professors all support me in various ways.

What’s been the most valuable part of your education in the College of Music, so far?

The most valuable part so far has been building a special community. I’ve made so many new connections and relationships that the college has become my second home.

What’s something you’ve accomplished while at the College of Music that you’re proud of?

I joined many different activities, including NAFME [National Associate for Music Education] and the marching band. I feel accomplished about how involved I am in the College of Music while managing school work pretty well.

How did you know that you wanted to pursue music professionally?

I’ve always wanted to pursue music professionally because it just felt right. I can’t imagine myself doing anything else as music has always been the only thing that makes me truly happy.

Remember, the priority deadline to apply to the College of Music is Dec. 1.

Check out this Q&A with Eunjeong (EJ) Lee, including tips for applying to the College of Music, advice for a successful audition and more.

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BME student ambassador: “interpersonal work + music”

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Student ambassador offers advice to incoming music buffs

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