Finding My Voice at NDSU

Being a part of not just one, but two incredible musical groups at NDSU has been a great joy. Singing with the Concert Choir and the Madrigal Singers has pushed me to grow in ways I didn't know I could--as a musician, a collaborator, and a person. Both ensembles are built on excellence, leadership, and true teamwork, and I feel lucky every day to learn alongside such talented, kind, and driven people.

Dr. Dwight Jilek has guided the choral department into an exciting new chapter while still honoring the tradition and legacy of those who came before. Under his direction, I've found myself not just singing better, but thinking more creatively and working more intentionally with others. He inspires us to keep raising the bar, and it's contagious.

Just yesterday, the Concert Choir and alumni came together for an unforgettable day. We sang as one big choir, celebrated our shared love of music, and then headed to the Fargodome to perform the National Anthem at the Bison homecoming football game. Standing there, surrounded by so many voices blending into one, I felt a rush of pride and excitement. It also hit me that in just a few months, I'll graduate and join that incredible group of alumni. When I do, I know I'll carry with me not only loyalty to NDSU, but also deep gratitude for the professors, peers, and experiences that shaped me here.