Huskie Spotlight: Abria Shaw, ’24, Music Education

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study? I am majoring in Music Education with a vocal emphasis and Vocal Performance. I decided to major in Music Education because of how inspired I was by my elementary school music teacher. In fourth grade she encouraged me to audition for a local choir. This then resulted in her giving me free piano lessons for ten years and being my mentor. She showed me a world of music that I had never been exposed to and that I did not know was accessible to me. Educators have the special opportunity to offer new perspectives, experiences, and support that students may not have. I want to be an educator that can be a support for students, help them develop coping skills, and help students become passionate people. I decided to also major in vocal performance because I developed a love for performing after I got over my stage fright. I had an exceedingly difficult time singing on stage alone until my senior year of high school, when I realized that I enjoyed singing opera. Growing up, I never thought singing opera would be something that would interest me until I met someone my age who sang opera. I decided to give it a chance and realized that I loved it. I hope to continue performing wherever I can once after college and possibly get my masters in Vocal performance. Overall, I know with both majors I can uplift others through music and fulfill myself.

What is your favorite thing about studying and/or playing music at NIU? My favorite thing about studying and singing at NIU is that the faculty really tries to give you so many opportunities to learn and perform. There have been some very interesting speakers and resident composers come and visit. Also, there are so many performance opportunities, it is noticeable that he faculty here wants us to share what we are working on. I have always felt supported in all of my passions here. Also, NIU’s School of Music is trying very hard to create a more diverse and representative environment. It has been inspiring to see the school make changes from the norms and picking more diverse repertoire for performances! Since I first visited the school of music, I immediately felt that my passions would be supported.

Are you involved in any student organizations or extra-curricular activities? I am on the board of NIU’s chapter of the National Association for Music Educators (NAFME), I am the undergraduate representative for the school of music’s Diversity Equity and Belonging Committee, NIU’s Opera Theatre, and Concert Choir. Being a part of these ensembles and two extracurricular activities keeps me busy. However, I have made so many great friends, learned so much, and I have gotten to be a part of planning exciting events at the school of music. I have also gotten to work alongside some faculty members that I would not usually get to work with because of my major.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? This was a hard question because I appreciate all my professors so much. However, my voice teacher, Dr. Orna Arania has made a very big impact on me since I visited NIU my senior year in high school. I remember her explaining her teaching philosophy and it resonated with me so much. I have always valued being independent and Dr. Arania has explained to me during my time here that she is here to help me gather the tools I need to be able to be an independent performer. She has helped me so much with my confidence and has showed new ways to look at music. I have grown so much while working with her as a musician and a person. I have always trusted that she has my best interest in mind and has always pushed me to be my best. I have learned so much from Dr. Arania about how to be a smart and expressive musician. I have always admired how her presence fills up a room.  I look forward to continuing to work with her and learn even more from her.

Why did you choose NIU to study music? I chose to study music at NIU because I truly felt like the school’s main goal was to support my passions, show me different perspectives, and help me gain the tools I need to be a successful musician and educator once I graduate. During my time at NIU, the classes have shown me so many different musical perspectives an experience through presentations, classes, performances, and projects. I have learned that I am capable of many more things than just singing the notes on the page and that I can also show my future students that they are capable of more as well.

What advice would you give to a student who is applying to colleges? My advice to any student applying to college is to ask questions and reach out. I promise there are people who want you to do well and succeed. It is okay to have questions or not feel prepared. I dealt with those feelings of doubt and uncertainty about what I was doing when I applied and auditioned for school. However, I asked so many questions and it helped me so much because it made me realize that that there are so many resources. Also, talking to faculty will give you a better idea of how the school works and help you see if you like the way the school communicates with you. It is especially important to advocate for yourself and your education, so you can have the best experience possible.

What do you do to relax or recharge? My favorite spot on campus is the East Lagoon. It is so peaceful, and it always looks so pretty. I have always found myself over there either walking or just sitting on a bench when I just need a break.