The “Senior Spotlight” series honors graduating fine arts majors for their contributions to the Gustavus community.
Samantha Walters is a Vocal Music Education major from St. Michael, Minn. She plans to finish student teaching this May, and begin teaching in a music classroom in the fall. Professor of Piano Yumiko Oshima-Ryan has worked with Samantha since her freshman year. “Sam is unpredictable and fun to laugh and cry with. Most of all, she loves music and is passionate to teach her students,” she says.
We asked Samantha to give us a little insight into her time at Gustavus.
What will you miss most about music at Gustavus?
SW: I will miss the community! Everyone in music supports each other in a way I haven’t experienced anywhere else. I just love the energy and love that Gustavus music provides.
What’s a favorite memory you have from studying music at Gustavus?
SW: My favorite memory was Gustavus Choir tour last year. I loved traveling around to new cities I had never been to before and exploring with my best friends, as well as people I had just met. I got to know so many people on that trip and gained so many new musical and life experiences.
What has been your proudest moment in your time at Gustavus?
SW: I think every year for Christmas in Christ Chapel has made me feel extremely proud. Every year, thousands of people watch the concert either in person or over the livestream. People of all ages and backgrounds, alumni and people who just love music, all come to see us sing and perform. As a student, it is extremely humbling and rewarding to create such a powerful performance for people and touch their lives in such a special way. Then when COVID began, we Gustavus still managed to create a concert as special, if not more special, than the in person concerts. They really wanted us seniors to have a great last experience with something we all had special places in our hearts for.
What do you look forward to most about life after Gustavus?
SW: I look forward to seeing where my path takes me! I can’t wait to try new things and go down new paths that interest me and have all of my friends and Gustavus family there by my side. I think Gustavus prepared me to take on any new adventure or opportunity and continue to create myself as a well-rounded person.
What professor has made the biggest impact on you and why?
SW: My piano professor, Yumiko, has probably made the biggest impact on me. I had her as a piano professor for all four years and through those four years she became a close friend of mine; she is so kind-hearted and just actively seeks out ways to better you as a musician. She motivated me to be a better pianist and take on opportunities I never had the confidence to before.