Music
- Student Profile - Mitch Stutzman
Mitch Stutzman
Freshman, Music
Middlebury, Ind.
What drew you to Hesston College?
The small size of Hesston College was a definite draw for me. I came from a Mennonite high school and didn’t know whether I could handle going to a large university or state school. When I came to Hesston to visit as a prospective student, I had absolutely no intention of ever coming here. I felt that a two-year school was a waste of my time and if I have to transfer somewhere anyway, why don’t I just go somewhere else to begin with? After coming here and meeting faculty who were genuinely interested in my interests and sincerely wanted me at Hesston College, I changed my mind. I saw all of the opportunities that Hesston had to offer me and all of the things I could get involved in right away as opposed to waiting till my junior and senior years at a four-year college
How challenging are the academics in the music department?
Academics at Hesston are challenging enough to keep you busy without being excessively demanding to frustrate you. I feel intellectually pushed in nearly everything I participate in. Those classes that I struggle with, such as the math and science courses, are eased by Hesston’s attention to academic performance. I have appreciated the access I have to a free tutor in any class I may be struggling with. It has helped make my transition into college-level academics an easy shift.
What is your favorite music course? Why is it your favorite?
I have vastly enjoyed my time spent in Bel Canto Singers and have appreciated all that I have learned about singing in an ensemble. I really enjoyed my Introduction to Music theory course as well. My class was full of students with a variety of music skills. Some had taken piano lessons for over half their lives and others, like me, had never had any piano experience. We were all able to walk away from the course having learned a lot. The way in which Bradley Kauffman presented the information to our diverse class helped us all glean what we needed while not holding anybody back from their full potential in the class.
What are the professors like in this program? Do you connect with them beyond your times in class?
Professors are extremely understanding in the music department. They all care deeply for the enrichment and development of our individual abilities. Often times, with my busy schedule I will not be able to meet during the day and professors have been known to stay into the evening to work with me. I feel like I can ask for help from any one of them at anytime and they will be willing to help me out.
What have been your best or favorite performance opportunities at Hesston?
I have loved being able to participate in the infancy of the Wind Ensemble here at Hesston. I feel privileged to say that I was in the wind ensemble in its second year at Hesston College. I have also had the opportunity to get involved with Bethel College’s program. The two schools have a close partnership that is very beneficial when I am interested in things that Hesston may not be able to supply due to a lack of student interest or other reason.
Did you find other opportunities for learning outside the classroom?
I find so many ways to learn outside of given class time. I have joined with some other people on campus who enjoy vocal music and we sing together on occasion. This is a valuable learning experience that is achievable through the music program here at Hesston. With Hesston Mennonite Church playing such an important role here on campus there are always learning opportunities. I often have sung or been in dramas on Sunday mornings. This accessibility to a community that is willing to help me is something I greatly appreciate.
What are some of your most memorable moments as a student at Hesston?
My most memorable moments have included large events in my college career so far. Events like Bel Canto tour, performing in numerous vocal and instrumental concerts, and attending many weekend campus activities. But aside from these seemingly more substantial events, I have also greatly enjoyed the simple times hanging out with the guys in my mod, late night burger runs, and the joys of living with a bunch of enjoyable people.
What are your plans for after Hesston?
I plan to stay within the Mennonite colleges and perhaps attend one a little closer to home. This time away has been appreciated but I think I will be ready to be a bit closer to home. I plan on majoring in education. I may not end up teaching music, but the musician in me will never die. I plan on being very involved with both the instrumental and vocal music programs wherever I end up.
 |
