Looking Back, What Moment or Experience at VTSU had the Biggest Impact on You?
It is hard to pick one thing because many experiences have had a large impact on me. If I had to pick just one, I would say becoming an SOS leader had a large impact on me. I became involved my sophomore year and continued in junior and senior years. Becoming a Student Orientation Staff leader was the first leadership role I took on at school. I was nervous to meet new people and wondered how I’d fit in with the group. Looking back at the end of my senior year, saying goodbye to the friends I made during that experience was one of the hardest moments. Along with the staff members, I will miss the experience of orientation weekend. Moments such as meeting my group for the first time, and helping to guide new students through their first couple of days on campus. Trying to make every experience fun but also educational. Now, I walk across campus and see previous group members from three different classes. The experience is something I am thankful for and will definitely never forget.
Who or What Helped You Succeed During Your Time at VTSU?
What helped me the most during my time at VTSU (Castleton) was the environment and campus culture. I partly chose Castleton because people were friendly and always willing to help. Being in supportive spaces with people who are rooting for my success gave me the courage to try new experiences, become a leader in many different ways, and not be scared of failing.
How did Your VTSU Experience Prepare You for What Comes Next?
I am a music education student, and our music department at Castleton values professional experiences. We attended many conferences as a group that helped prepare me for the professional world. Along with conferences, we host the Castleton Honors Festival every year, where local schools bring chorus and band students who come for a day, rehearse, and then perform at a concert that same evening. All the music majors work the event, assisting wherever needed, while also getting the chance to network with local music teachers. This has greatly prepared me for my career in education.
What are Your Plans After Graduation?
After graduation, I will be working my summer waitressing job at the Lake House in Bomoseen while working to get my New York licensure. I am very fortunate to have already accepted a job teaching elementary general/choir music in Ticonderoga, NY. I am excited to start my teaching career and will start looking into a master’s program after a year of employment.
What Advice Would you Give to Incoming or Current VTSU Students?
Break out of your shell in some way. It can be a little bit at a time, but do something new. Something different. Something you might be scared to do, because you may not get another chance. They say four years go by fast, and you never believe it until it is your final week of senior year and you are sitting reflecting on your time at VTSU Castleton.