By Rosemary Hoitt, 2020-2021 Presser Undergraduate Scholar Award Recipient
I write this letter as a form of gratitude for the Presser Undergraduate Scholar Award I am receiving. I know that this gift will help myself as well as my family greatly this year. I was so surprised and honored when I was presented with this award at my institution, and I truly could not think of a better honor. As a first-generation college student, my family and I now understand that this music and college journey will be difficult, both academically and financially, but it is a journey I am excited to continue pursuing. This past year in particular has created quite the journey, but I am excited to now finally be on my last leg of my undergraduate experience.
I am currently a senior Music Education major at Ithaca, with my primary instrument being euphonium. I grew up in Norwell, Massachusetts, a small suburb of Boston. Ithaca is certainly a long drive for me, but it is totally worth it – plus, the drive is gorgeous! Music has always been a part of my family; my Grandmother playing in various orchestras and directing a women’s barbershop chorus, my Dad a drummer, my sister a beautiful singer. So naturally, since I was a little girl, I’ve always wanted to work with music; whether I was performing, learning, or teaching. As I grew more mature, I found a personal calling to help people throughout my life. I had a period of reflection when I thought I would have to decide between teaching and making music, but I’ve realized now that through music education, I can do both. There’s something magical about making music with other people; it’s an experience that can never be replicated perfectly. I think that’s what makes it so beautiful.
I was asked by an English teacher in high school: “what is the most beautiful thing you know?” My response: the moment while performing when it all ties together. The moment you get goosebumps up and down your whole body, and nothing can break the beauty and power of the moment. I want to be able to create moments like these for the rest of my life, and I know teaching music is a way to be able to make these moments while teaching how to create them; teaching others how to create irreplaceable memories and bonds.
While doing my research, I knew that Ithaca College was the place I wanted to go to learn and grow in such a way that I can create moments like this for others. Not only are the academics and staff a wonderful part of school, but I am also drawn to the beauty and natural areas of the college and the area. Ithaca felt like home the first time I toured, and continues to feel more at home each time I go back from a break away. It is also a place where I am able to explore other interests of mine – for example, I work as an Audio Visual Technician in Information Technology at school, where I also serve as the Student Manager in this position.
Thank you, again, for your contribution. The money you donate to music majors who put all they can into their academics and community and are in need of financial assistance truly goes a long way, and means more than words can say. It is truly an honor to be recognized as a Presser Scholar, and I am excited to see where this award can take me this next academic year.
