As a graduating high school senior, I remember thinking that I wanted to pursue a degree in vocal performance. Having done musical theater, school choir competitions, and honor choirs, I was nearly sure that this talent could only be used if I pursued it academically and professionally.

However, after a serious heart-to-heart with both my vocal coach and my parents, I quickly decided that music wasn’t the profession for me. And yet, I couldn’t help but be heartbroken at the notion that I might not ever sing in a rehearsed group again. A short internet research session, however, quickly revealed that I could, as a non-music major, still take part in the choirs and ensembles alongside the music majors.  I learned that a brief audition process is conducted at the beginning of every Fall semester and students are placed in the ensemble that best suits their voice type.

I tried out that Fall and was welcomed into the world of OU Choirs. After opening these doors, I have taken part in many different kinds of ensembles—from performing in the opera chorus, to taking private lessons, to singing alongside the Sooner elite in University Chorale. And the number one lesson I learned by becoming involved in OU Choirs:

Always ask professors about involvement opportunities!!!

You may not think that you are qualified for a certain opportunity because “you’re not a major”, or “there’s no room for you”. But I will tell you, professors and directors of all departments are usually willing to work with eager students that show passion for a particular subject.

So many students think that because they will not be studying their hobbies as a major in college, then they must give up those hobbies in favor of their areas of study. This is just simply NOT TRUE. If your passion is to dance, but you want to be a chemical engineer, take a dance class in between your physics classes. If you love photography, join the photography club and enter your photos in competitions on campus.

As for me? I am a double major in International Area Studies and Letters that wants to go to law school that also sings in OU Choirs. And while I know that I will never sing professionally, I am so grateful that the University of Oklahoma is a place where I can pursue all of my passions.

Boomer Sooner!

Kellie Reidlinger

International Studies & Letters