Huskie Spotlight: Fernando Marroquin Mendoza, ’24, Oboe Performance

What did you want to be when you were growing up? I am not really sure what I wanted to be when I was growing up but, I remember one time when, while watching a symphony orchestra on TV, I was trying to imitate the movements of the conductor and something about it called my attention. I don’t really want to be a conductor, but I like the sound of music and the effect it can have on people and how captivating it can be on each of its different forms. I think that is what my younger “me” founded interesting.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study? I am master student in oboe performance at the School of Music.

What is your favorite thing about studying and/or playing music at NIU? 
I have two things:
1. The vast diversity of music that you can hear and perform.  There is jazz, steelpan, gamelan, chamber music, Mariachi, a symphony orchestra, a wind ensemble, opera and you can learn something from all of them.

2. The opportunity to perform in different ensembles. One day you can be playing in a symphony orchestra and the next one you are performing in a Chinese music ensemble.

How have you connected with other students at NIU? The multiple resource centers are an amazing way to get in touch with people with whom you share something. For me, it has been the Latino Resource Center, all the people that I have met there have been very friendly and welcoming.

Are you involved in any student organizations or extra-curricular activities? I got involved in the M.E.T.A.S program at the Latino Resource Center, which pairs freshman with students who have been at NIU for more time and help them to feel welcomed and have someone if they need help with something during their academic year. I think is an amazing program that allows students to connect and share experiences with each other.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why?  I have multiple teachers that have helped and me made me feel welcomed at NIU and, all the people who work at the music school have been of amazing help but, professors Emily Fagan and Jui-Ching Wang have been of great support for me.

Why did you choose NIU to study music? I think the multicultural aspect that exists to it attracted me, and also the Huskies.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? The lagoon is definitely one of my favorite spots on campus. It is very cool to see it change with the seasons.

What advice would you give to a student who is applying to colleges? Be open to all the opportunities that the university culture offers you. It is an amazing place to discover what are your passions and learn how to dedicate your life to them.

What do you do to relax or recharge? A lot of things. Going on bike rides, traveling on train, listening or performing music are ways that help me relax.

Coming to college, what is something that you have had to learn to do differently? Being organized, even though I am usually a mess but trying again always to be better is definitely something I learned from the university.