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Melissa Kay is an advocate for music in the schools. The Caldwell College Music and Special Education major believes strongly that arts should be an integral part of a young person’s school experience. She benefited from good music instruction and she is using her drive and talent to make sure other children and teens reap those same benefits.
As President of the Caldwell chapter or MENC, the student-run music club, Kay and the other student members raise awareness about the benefits of music education by hosting workshops, speakers and concerts on Caldwell’s campus. MENC is a national organization with a mission to advance music education by encouraging the study and making of music. Kay says the Caldwell chapter tries to educate on campus about the need for music education. “Studies show most kids score higher on standardized tests if they are involved in music and arts.”
Kay’s instrument is the euphonium. She describes it as a “small tuba in the tenor range.” Not surprisingly, in grammar school she was the only student who played the euphonium and at Caldwell College she is also the only one. “I love it.” Working with the Music Department at Caldwell College has really helped her achieve a “greater sense of self.” The Music professors at Caldwell teach students not to give up. “I don’t like to be in front of people, but learned I can do well in front of people, if I want to. I do a lot of performance. They push me to do my best. They don’t ask for more. They just push me to do my personal best. “
A commuter from Little Falls, NJ, who transferred from a county college, Kay picked Caldwell because of the class size. “I learn better in small settings.” She says it easy to get involved at Caldwell College. “Caldwell always has something going on. They make it easy to go and make friends.”
With classes, studies, MENC, KDE (the national professional education fraternity), as well as a part-time job, she knows the value of managing priorities and carrying around a planner. She says it all takes a lot of planning so she makes sure that she sets aside time for homework. As for her future when she graduates, she plans to either teach music or special education. “I love working with kids. Music is something I love to do and I’m good at it and I want to share that.” |
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MajorS: Music, Special Education
Class of: 2009 |
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