Washington and Lee University

Throughout high school I was always interested in music and performing arts. I acted in the plays, and sang solos during concerts, talent shows and chapel services. I also had, as my family had put it, “a keen business sense,” especially in entrepreneurial areas. When it came time to look for schools, I knew I needed a place that would foster both of these interests.

After some searching, I came across Washington and Lee. It has more than met my expectations. I have sung with Chamber singers for two years, and the University chorus for one. As president of Southern Comfort, W&L's only all-male a cappella group, I've also had the chance to combine my interests in business and music. Organizing performances, coordinating the release of our new CD "On the Rocks" and motivating members at times seems to require more business sense than musical knowledge and ability. But we never lose sight of the fact the group is for fun and based on our enthusiasm for performing music with others.

Thanks to the Bentley endowment, W&L's theater and music departments showcase a musical every year, enabling me to pursue my interests as an actor and singer. Last year's production of "Kiss Me Kate," in which I played the lead, provided me with the opportunity to be an integral part of the Lenfest Center Arts program, which is highly regarded both on campus and throughout the Lexington community. Many of the cast members were just like me: smart, driven, enthusiastic students majoring in other areas, but with a passion for performance. We put on what many considered the best show the University has ever seen, and one that could give a larger conservatory a run for its money.

Just last year, the University opened its new music building, Wilson Hall. This place is simply amazing. The building is state-of-the-art, the equipment is state-of-the-art and the school has faculty that know how to teach people to use it. Southern Comfort is now able to hold its own recording sessions, and I am able to reserve the hall for rehearsals. Voice students such as myself can feel what it’s really like to perform in an authentic and acoustically perfect place.

W&L has also given me the opportunity to work closely with faculty and alumni, both inside and outside the classroom. I’ve had master classes with Broadway actors, performance opportunities combined with travel in the States and abroad, and individual meetings with a business professor to prepare for an interview with the president of a production company. I find it hard to imagine another place where I would be granted so much opportunity in such a short amount of time. Everyday it seems I can’t wait until tomorrow to see what's next.