Being a freshman in college can be an intimidating experience for many students. The transition from high school to college brings a whole new set of challenges and uncertainties. However, there are many organizations on campus that are offered to students such as the National Association for Music Educators (NAfME).
Washburn University’s NAfME recently held a meeting last Thursday at 6:30 p.m., bringing together students and faculty who are passionate about music education. The meeting commenced with the club president giving opening remarks, setting the tone for the evening. Attendees were asked to introduce themselves, share their names, majors and what they were looking forward to in the upcoming events.
Dylan Rizzo, senior music education and music performance major, is the president of NAfME. He highlighted upcoming events such as student-teacher programs, potluck gatherings and even a petting zoo during the Halloween concert, adding a touch of fun to the educational experience.
When asked how this organization has helped her grow, Emily Harmon, sophomore music education major and the public relations officer for NAfME, shared her thoughts.
“This organization has helped me establish the idea that I do want to become a music educator,” Harmon said. “I wanted to do music but I didn’t know which route I wanted to take. I’ve really enjoyed listening to all the conversations we’ve had about becoming a music educator and I feel like some of the stuff we’ve learned is really going to benefit me later on.”
Following the president’s address, Breauna Jewell, junior art major and the vice president of NAfME, took the floor to discuss the upcoming music day Sept. 12, a significant event for the organization. This day serves as a platform for members to showcase their musical talents and bond with fellow musicians.
Mentorship plays a crucial role in the development of aspiring music educators, offering valuable insights and advice from experienced members. Professor Sheri Cook Cunningham, a mentor within the association, shared her perspective on the impact of mentorship, emphasizing its role in shaping future music educators.
Lauren Wilson, a sophomore music performance and music education major, is the treasurer for NAfME. She talked more about the meeting’s purpose.
“It’s a good opportunity for people who’ve ‘been there, done that’ with some of the first-year struggles,” Wilson said. “For the freshmen to have someone to ask questions to, even just to have someone to vent to. It’s just an opportunity for freshmen to have that communication.”
After her address, Teagan Kimble, junior music education major and secretary of NAfME, demonstrated a creative activity for the present members. The future music educators decorated a petal that would be displayed on the bulletin board outside the office. The room was filled with laughter and positive energy as members worked to complete this task. A creative activity typically makes its way into their meetings.
NAfME is always open to new members excited about music education. Participants are not solely music education majors. As long as a student is involved in a Washburn ensemble or is a music major or minor, they are eligible for membership.
“If you have a genuine love for expanding music education and making you more of an educator, then NAfME is the place for you,” Rizzo said.
As the meeting concluded, the executive team expressed their gratitude for the opportunities and support provided by NAfME.
Edited by Eden Conrad, Stuti Khadka and Jayme Thompson
