COVID-19 PULSE POLL

COVID-19 Quarantine Pulse Poll

The opportunities of a new year are upon us. What do you plan to do differently; what do you plan to do the same?

Audrey Pratt

Graduate Performance (Organ)

For 2021 I am going to continue trying to stay safe, prioritize, and stay determined. Making sure to be flexible in planning and taking time for a break. It has been amazing to take classes with my cat this last semester, I am looking forward to this next semester! However, with this new year I want to start stepping out of my comfort zone and try some new things! I also would love to explore San Antonio!

Katrina Cantu

Music Education (Voice)

It would be dishonest of me to say that I don’t have mixed feelings anticipating the new year. Like many, I feel some residual pain from 2020 and the costs that came with it. Amidst the pain, however, I do feel hopeful for the year to come. This past year has taught me that there are some decisions that don’t work for me anymore, while simultaneously showing me that I have also made positive strides towards actions that benefit me. I will continue to prioritize my goals, finding time for self-care, making a ton of to-do lists, and trying not to beat myself up over what’s left at the end of the day. I will lean on my loved ones much more closely. If 2020 has taught me anything, it’s that life is truly about cherishing the joy of the love you share and receive in return. More than anything, I look forward to sharing that love with myself and others. Happy 2021!

Dr. Rachel Woolf

Lecturer of Flute

With the freshness of a new year upon us, I plan to encourage my students to ignite their passions like never before. Now that we as a society are more used to this online world, it is time to embrace what it has to offer by expanding our creativity, engaging with technology, and not getting discouraged by the struggles we are all facing on a daily basis. I will continue to push my students to the highest standard I can, learning from the last two semesters to make Spring 2021 even more meaningful and full of learning and growth. For me personally, I plan on spending more time (safely) outdoors going on hikes in nature, taking care of my mental and physical health, as well as planning more musical projects for me and my students.

Erik Garcia

Graduate Music Education (Voice)

What I plan to do differently is to receive the two required doses of the vaccine. I received the first dose earlier this month and I will be getting the second dose at the beginning of next month. I am also planning on increasing my stamina for my job. I teach in a hybrid format, which is challenging but completely possible. I have to stay motivated because I have a responsibility to my students and administration. I am fortunate to have a supportive administration at my campus. What I am planning on doing the same is being consistent with teaching and responding to my students learning needs. My mentor, Gabriela Montoya-Stier, told me to be consistent with daily routines and to maintain structure. Students thrive on structure. These are challenging times but I will continue to work hard as a teacher. I love my job and I enjoy going to work.