Q: What is your hometown and what is your major? Do you live in a residence hall or off campus?
A: I’m from Cape Girardeau, Missouri, and I’m getting a dual degree in neuroscience and French horn performance. I live off campus.
Q: What has been working for you so far this semester? Is there something you feel particularly good about?
A: I struggled to get in the groove at the beginning at the semester, but things have improved as the semester has gone along. Since I’m doing most of my studying in my room instead of the library this semester, I’ve been trying to wake up early and get work done while I’m still motivated. Also, when I’m sitting at my desk procrastinating, I make myself get up and take a break to help keep the mindset that my desk area is for productivity only.
Q: What is the best part about being on campus this semester?
A: Being able to see my friends. The whole time I’ve been at Tulane, getting to be with my friends at band has been the best part of my week, and even though it’s a lot different this semester, it’s still what I look forward to most.
Q: How do you de-stress now, during pandemic?
A: I started running during quarantine, so I’ve been trying to keep that up two to three days a week. I also go to the grocery store every Friday after class, and then I refuse to do any homework until Saturday, which has really helped me relax.
Q: Being a drum major of the marching band, how do you keep everyone spirited and engaged?
A: It’s still a work in progress, but I’ve been trying to reach out to people individually to check on them and see how everything is going. I’m also a big proponent of leading by example, so just doing my part in staying upbeat and positive as much as possible. Keeping people spirited and engaged is a team effort as well. The other members of the student leadership do a great job keeping their members positive and motivated, especially with everything happening.
Interview by Audrey Watford
