The “Senior Spotlight” series honors graduating fine arts majors for their contributions to the Gustavus community.
Meg Nipe is a Vocal Music Education major from Rice Lake, Wis. She will be student teaching in the fall, and then applying to grad school. Jon and Anita Thomsen Young Distinguished Chair in Music and Conductor of the Gustavus Choir Dr. Brandon Dean says, “Meg is the model of consistency. Day in and day out, she is a beacon of positivity and a role model for what it means to show compassion for others. It has been a privilege to watch Meg’s leadership skills grow as she expanded her understanding of music education and her future students are going to be so fortunate to have her.”
We asked Meg to give us a little insight into her time at Gustavus and what her future plans are.
What’s a favorite memory you have from studying music at Gustavus?
MN: One of my favorite memories from studying music at Gustavus has been being a section leader for the G Choir altos. Being able to foster stronger relationships with them and grow my leadership skills has been such a joy.
How have you grown in your time at Gustavus?
MN: I’ve become more proud of myself. The encouraging community that makes up our music department has made me realize that I CAN do what I put my mind to.
What is the most interesting class you’ve taken at Gustavus and why?
MN: The most interesting class I have taken at Gustavus was Music Industry with Dr. Dave Stamps. With the dream of making music more accessible to schools with low funding, I learned a lot in this course ranging from grant writing, starting a non-profit, songwriting, and tour management. It was such an intriguing class and hands on too.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give high school students considering Gustavus?
MN: Stay involved in fine arts in some way or capacity, even if it is not your major. If art brings you a sense of fulfillment, then it’s super important to put it in your schedule. Whether it be through a work study, college ensemble, or extracurricular group, there are so many opportunities for you.
What professor has made the biggest impact on you and why?
MN: Dr. Brandon Dean has definitely made the biggest impact on me. He really wears his passion for music on his sleeve and pushes every single person to be the best versions of themselves. The opportunities he’s given me throughout my Gustavus career have shaped me as a future educator and have made me feel so prepared for where I’m heading next. Dr. Dean helped me grow in my passion for conducting and has given me so many ways to grow in the love from leading sectionals, ACDA summer conducting workshops, and conducting Gustavus Choir this spring. I am so thankful for him and the love he has for his profession.