Name: Kaitlynn Seeley
Major: Music Education
Hometown: Webster City, Iowa
Planned Graduation Date: May 2023
What are you involved with here at ISU and beyond?
At ISU I am in the Wind Ensemble and Flute Ensemble. I am also heavily involved with Dance Marathon at Iowa State as the Youth Outreach Director, where I work with elementary, middle, and high schools around the state of Iowa with their Dance Marathon programs, fundraisers, and events. This semester, I have had the opportunity to be a long-term substitute at Stratford Elementary as the 5th and 6th grade band director which has been so much fun and such a great learning experience!
What pieces are you working on right now?
This October I had my senior recital where I performed Regrets and Resolutions by Gary Schocker, Six Pieces for Flute and Piano by Fikret Amirov, Sonata in B minor by Georg Philipp Telemann, and Touching the Ether by Ian Clarke!
What are you doing/looking forward to this semester?
This spring I will be student teaching! I am very excited to get more experience working with students, learning from my amazing cooperating teachers, and applying everything I have learned in my time at Iowa State!
What is your favorite thing about your experiences at Iowa State?
There are so many opportunities to get involved with what you are passionate about! This semester I have been working with Dr. Christina Svec for an independent study in learning more about elementary general music. We have been able to dive deep into lesson planning, curriculum, and how to best teach such little learners! There is only one class covering elementary music in the music education area, but so many opportunities to learn more about what you want to focus on!
Why did you choose the Dept. of Music and Theatre at ISU?
The faculty is amazing! I had taken lessons privately with Dr. Sonja Giles throughout high school and knew that her studio would be the best fit for me. After starting here, I realized that everyone a part of the music staff truly just wants to help you grow as a person and musician and is always there for you academically and personally.
What are you interests beyond music and theatre?
Outside of music, I enjoy coaching softball during the summers in my hometown, Webster City, reading, watching Criminal Minds and Judge Judy when I have the time, and spending all of my money on iced coffee.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I will be seeking a job teaching elementary general music and/or beginning band!
Any words of wisdom for prospective students?
Get involved! Whether you choose to participate in multiple ensembles and/or get involved with organizations outside of music hall, connecting with others makes the long, stressful days easier. And you should join Dance Marathon :)