Bands of America created a long-lasting impression on my life. I never knew how largely I would be impacted by music. My passion for the arts has grown tremendously because of the life-changing experiences provided through Music for All. Now, as the Marketing Intern for Music for All, I am honored to be able to give those same experiences to young musicians.
Yesterday, I had the pleasure of speaking with four of my fellow interns, who are also Bands of America alumni. Emily Verdi (Participant Relations Intern), Ian Wathen (IT Data Management Intern), Maxwell Cathala (Systems Intern), and Morgan Dean (Advocacy and Educational Resources Intern) shared their experiences as they transitioned from participant to intern.
Morgan Dean is a 2016 graduate from Castle High School. During her time as a high school student, Morgan participated in a number of sports, in addition to marching band. She is thankful for everything that BOA has taught and provided for her. As an intern, Morgan is excited to be part of a team that works hands on to give back to music programs around the country.
In her experience, Morgan is thankful for Music for All for always supporting her school’s music program, her family, and her friends. As an intern, Morgan says, “I always knew I wanted to keep music in my to give back and provide the same experiences to students that were given to me.” Morgan is achieving her goal at this year’s Summer Symposium.
Emily, Ian, and Maxwell are all 2014 graduates of Avon High School. When describing their favorite experiences as BOA alum, they agreed that breaking ranks during finals performances always took the cake. For them, it was never about ranking. They were simply just excited to be able to meet and talk with other musicians from other schools.
Maxwell Cathala also had the opportunity to attend Summer Symposium as a camper. He describes his experiences as a learning opportunity. He met some of his greatest friends while at camp, and has had to opportunity to watch them achieve life goals that were set during Summer Symposium. Max says that without his experiences at camp, he would not be the person he is today.
As an O’fallon Township High School 2016 graduate, I could not agree more with my colleagues. BOA was truly life changing, and I am very thankful for everyone at Music for All for creating such unforgettable experiences.
We all are excited to partake in the 2018 Summer Symposium. It has a been great to see how hard the Music for All staff works to create these programs. From BOA participants to Music for All Interns, we are all ecstatic to be part of the Summer Symposium team.
