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Student follows her passion for music
To say that Mykayla Neilson '17 enjoys music would be like saying Vincent van Gogh was a little interested in art. “Every aspect of music captures me,” she says, “so that's why I don't have one specific career in mind as my dream job.” The sophomore from Millersburg, Ind., is majoring in music education and says she will follow her professional passions wherever they lead.
Mykayla’s introduction to Manchester began with the letters “MU” on a small pamphlet, and her curiosity grew when a friend suggested it to her. Ultimately, Mykayla chose Manchester because it offered “the personalized attention I needed to grow in my music, my academics, and my life.”
Mykayla now considers Manchester her home away from home. She found a welcoming community not only in the student body but in the academic community. “I have incredible friends who I know have my back,” says Mykayla, “and I can call my professors friends.”
Numerous clubs and groups have helped Mykayla grow as a musician and educator. She’s active in Student Education Association (SEA) meetings and participates in everything from club parties to book drives. She is also a member of the Indiana Music Education Association chapter at MU and attends music educator conferences.
Mykayla belongs to a staggering number of music groups and ensembles on campus. She is the Alto 1 section leader of A Cappella Choir and also sings with the Chamber Singers. She’s an instrumentalist, too, leading the trumpet section for Symphonic Band and also playing with the MU Jazz Band and the Manchester Symphony Orchestra.
Mykayla's academic ventures took an unexpected turn when she studied in Barcelona, Spain, during spring semester. She says she’s grateful to her friends, her professors, and Jesus Christ for the opportunity.
Although Mykayla does not know exactly what her occupation will be, her goal is to create, produce or teach music. “The plan is to live my life with audacity, intelligence and love in my heart,” says Mykayla.
By Michael E. Dixon ’16 |
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