gained from opportunities, honors student

Elizabeth Boston is a junior vocal music performance major from Shreveport.

I am the oldest of four children. I have three younger brothers.

I am the President of Delta Omicron International Music Fraternity, a member of the American Choral Directors Association, a class representative on the Student Honors Council, and I am active in the University Concert Choir and Chamber Singers. I work on campus for the Honors Program, and I'm also a shift supervisor at Starbucks.

I either want to become a music therapist or continue with my vocal education and become a studio voice professor. Music can bring people together in a fascinating way. Whether in a choral setting, in a one-on-one lesson, or using music to relieve tension, music affects everyone on some level. To be a part of sharing that experience every day would be incredible.

I love spending free time on the pier over the bayou when it's not too humid. It's uniquely ULM and a great place to just think. I also love the fifth floor of the library. If you sit near the window, it's quiet and you can see the bayou out of the corner of your eye.

Every professor I have had here at ULM has been amazing. From the music faculty to the honors faculty, everyone is supportive and incredibly knowledgeable. Dr. Olson, my voice professor, has shaped me as a musician and as a person over the past couple of years. I also have had the opportunity to work with Dr. Rubio in the Honors Program. His passion for education and leadership is apparent, and I have learned a lot about both of these from him.

I look forward to VAPA Day every year. I remember it from when I visited ULM in high school. Now it's so much fun to be on the other side.

I have gained a lot of leadership skills and experience from the opportunities I have been (and will continue to be) afforded here. I wanted a smaller school with classes where I wouldn't be lost as an individual. ULM has definitely given me that.

Through the Honors Program, I can take classes with as few as five people, which means individual attention and a chance to really discuss the topics we study.