This time of year often brings about change for students. We’re starting a new semester with new classes and trying to keep up with New Year’s Resolutions. Some of us, myself included, have started student teaching. Although change brings challenges, there are also many opportunities!
One of the best opportunities for collegiate students this semester is the In-Service Workshop. By attending the ISW, you will have the chance to attend clinics about a wide variety of topics, network with music educators around the state, and connect with your peers at different colleges. There are also a couple of exciting new changes happening within the collegiate world at the ISW. The voting process for collegiate officers has been moved online, so members no longer need to attend the luncheon to vote. Despite this change, I highly encourage everyone to attend the luncheon! There will be several speakers visiting us, and we will still hear from the officer candidates. In addition, we have listened to your requests and the meal this year will be a pasta bar.
There are multiple other opportunities for you to take advantage of as members of Collegiate NAfME. If you haven’t already, I encourage you check out all of the resources on the NAfME website. There are thousands of research articles, information about advocacy and sample lesson plans available for your use! This resource can be very helpful for writing papers or planning lessons. Your state chapter of Collegiate NAfME also has many opportunities available. We are currently working on putting together district meetings, to provide more time for networking and professional development. More information will be coming out about those in the near future. On Saturday morning during the ISW, there is a Collegiate NAfME meeting. We will be discussing how the different chapters are run and what kind of activities they engage in. I will also have the pleasure of announcing the President and Vice-President elect! This meeting is a great jumping-off point for collegiate members interested in getting more involved at the state level.
I hope the rest of your semester treats you well, and you take advantage of all the opportunities available to you as a member of NAfME and KMEA. I look forward to seeing everyone at the In-Service Workshop!
