Joanna Shultz

Leamington, Ontario
Graduating with an honours Bachelor of Music Therapy with a minor in child psychology

How did you pick your major of study, and why did you choose the University of Windsor?

I chose to study at the University of Windsor because it is one of only six schools in Canada offering the unique Music Therapy degree. I chose to study Music Therapy because I couldn't imagine a career without music. Music therapy allows me to blend my love for music with my love for working with people at all ages and abilities.

What were your expectations of university? Has the University of Windsor met those expectations?

At UWindsor, I expected to find supportive faculty and an engaging, interacting environment in which to support my love of learning. The faculty both at the School of Music and the Psychology Department went above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that each student was supported academically and emotionally throughout their degree.

What would you say is the most important thing you have learned at university: about yourself, about other people, about your field of study, or about the world?

The most important thing that I learned in University is that education is the first step towards personal and social change. After studying psychology, I saw a shift in my thinking. The more I understood about human behaviour (why we do what we do), I judged less and loved more. It has affected my personal relationships significantly and I learned positive coping mechanisms which will serve me for the rest of my life.

What would you say has been the most memorable part of your UWindsor experience?

The most memorable part of my UWindsor experience was the close-knit community within our School of Music. The music building came to feel like a second home, with its warmth and support from faculty and fellow students. I will never forget the feeling of performing for a large audience or being a part of a collaborative musical experience.

Please tell us why you are proud to be part of the University of Windsor’s graduating class of 2011.

I am proud to be a part of the 2011 graduating class because I have been inspired by so many of its graduates. The maturity, critical thinking, and insight exemplified by my peers helped me to grow and evolve in their presence. I know many graduates of this year will go on to make positive changes and contributions to our world.

Did you have a course, professor or classmate who inspired you?

The nursing course, 'The Human Meaning of Death' inspired me profoundly. Professor MacKendrick created an environment in which the normally-taboo topic of death was discussed without reserve or discomfort. Its content was highly relevant to everyone as we all must face death in our lifetime.

What are your plans following graduation?

I plan to attend a Canadian University to pursue a Masters' degree in a related helping profession to music therapy. My future dream is to open a community wellness centre for Creative Art Therapies and Yoga.