Michelle Beemer

Tecumseh, Ontario
Graduating with an honours Bachelor of Music with a minor in English

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

Growing up I always knew I wanted to teach music. When it came time to choosing a University, I knew that I wanted to study at a school that was close knit — a school where I could easily work one on one with professors to further my education. I decided to audition at Windsor, and was accepted. The scholarships I was offered would practically cover my schooling costs, and I was asked to take part in the Outstanding Scholar program. This program would allow me to work alongside a professor and gain real world working experience.

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

I had expected that the university would assist me with furthering my knowledge of music and I was terrified by the many stories I had heard of students that had lost scholarships due to low marks. The University of Windsor did more than just meet my expectations. Once I started university, I realized that my professors all wanted me to succeed. They were genuinely interested in my education and wanted me to have the textbook and hands-on experiences that would greatly assist me with my future career. The small class sizes provided me with the attention I needed to fully explore my educational interests and do my best — something I would not have had the opportunity to do in a large class. My professors challenged me in my areas of weakness and rejoiced with me when I succeeded.

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?

One of the most important things I have learned is that life is not just about getting good grades. Learning is a life-long process — we will never really be done with it, and a textbook cannot teach us all that we need to know. I’ve recognized that it is important to do your best, and it’s important to enjoy what you do. Life is about building relationships with those around you and using your God-given gifts and talents to help those who need it and to work to change the world for the better.

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

I have many memorable experiences throughout my university career. Most recently, I had the privilege of doing a graduation recital — something I had never dreamed of being able to do. Thanks to the encouragement, collaboration and support from my professors, friends and family, I was able to do one. It took an entire semester to fully prepare for it, and it was one of the best experiences of my life. It allowed me to grow so much as a musician and as a person. Last year, through a club on campus, I was given the opportunity to travel to Guatemala as a missionary. This trip challenged me in so many ways. Halfway through the trip we encountered a volcanic eruption, tropical storm, massive sinkhole and multiple earthquakes. These events all occurred within three days of each other — leaving Guatemala in a state of disaster. I quickly became a relief worker, assigned to digging homes out of eight feet of mud. This experience strengthened me and my faith in ways that I never would have imagined. By getting involved on campus I was given the chance to have this amazing once-in-a-lifetime 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 part of a graduating class that has the chance to use our education to positively impact the world around us.

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

The School of Music has incredibly dedicated staff and professors. I couldn’t just pick one. All of my professors have been extremely generous by means of taking the time to work with me one on one — whether to assist me with current assignments, discuss my plans for the future, or work out what courses would benefit me the greatest. They made learning fun. Their support and guidance has meant so much to me and has allowed me to accomplish more than I ever would have imagined when I started University.

What are your plans following graduation?

I applied and have been accepted to the Faculty of Education at the University of Windsor. I’m very excited to start using what I’ve been learning these past four years in a classroom setting.