The TCU College of Fine Arts is preparing to graduate an outstanding fall 2022 class. Three of its graduates include Kaitlin Weeks from the School of Music, Jaden Lewis from the Department of Theatre and Ethan Casella from the Department of Design.
Kaitlin Weeks
Music
Why did you choose to attend TCU?
I came to TCU to study with Gary Whitman, who later retired as the clarinet professor. Our new professor, Dr. Corey Mackey raised the bar for my performance. I’m grateful he was my professor for the remainder of my time here.
Tell us about your internships and involvement during your time at TCU.
I had leadership roles in the Horned Frog Marching Band, the Kappa Kappa Psi band fraternity and the Japanese Language Club. Performing with the Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band and Symphony Orchestra provided valuable musical memories and experiences.
Who most impacted your TCU experience and why?
Professors Brian Youngblood and Dr. Laura Singletary demonstrate what it means to teach music and truly enjoy it. They have always believed in and supported my musicianship and future, and I am incredibly thankful for their impact on my experience!
What’s next for you?
I am preparing to audition for the next active-duty Air Force gigs that open. In the meantime, I plan to continue working in the Air National Guard as a recruiting agent for the band, teaching privately and playing with my polka band.
What advice would you give to other students pursuing a career in music?
Stay true to your values and don’t stand in your own way of a life-changing opportunity. It took two years to audition for the military band solely because I was nervous. If I knew what I was missing out on, I would not have waited so long to join!
Jaden Lewis
Theatre
Why did you choose to attend TCU?
I chose TCU because they saw me as a person, not as someone who could meet their department quota, something I was very concerned about as a person of color. TCU was the first audition out of nine auditions and the only one that made me feel at home; where I belonged.
Tell us about your internships and involvement during your time at TCU.
I am a founding member and co-president of Theatre TCU Black Excellence, an organization that 12 other black theatre students and I created in our first year. This organization is a safe space for black creatives.
Who most impacted your TCU experience and why?
Professors Angela Turner-Wilson and Penny Ayn Maas have poured so much throughout my four years and taught me what it takes to have longevity in this field. I am forever grateful to them for this.
What’s next for you?
After graduation, I will be moving to New York City to further pursue my career in theatre.
What advice would you give to other students pursuing a career in theatre?
Work hard, be kind and take on projects that you love but also push you to discover more about yourself.
Ethan Casella
Graphic Design
Why did you choose to attend TCU?
I grew up in California and wasn’t looking to move to Texas after graduating high school. However, after finding TCU and the graphic design program, I knew this was the right choice.
Tell us about your internships and involvement during your time at TCU.
I was actively involved in Design Focus, a graphic design organization. I also had two internships where I learned so much about the field of design.
Who most impacted your TCU experience and why?
I met Professor Bill Galyean during my first year and later had four more classes over two semesters with him. What was most impactful during these semesters was his mentorship and pushing me to invest in my growth as a student and a person.
What’s next for you?
There are so many great opportunities for a graphic designer here in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. I’ve already met and connected with several professionals and companies, and I’m excited to see what follows!
What advice would you give to other students pursuing a career in graphic design?
There are different areas, from user experience to advertising, small agency to big company, so take the time to find what you like about design and pursue that. Push yourself to try something new and see if you like it.
Congratulations to all our College of Fine Arts graduates! Thank you for putting your passion into practice, and continue to Lead On!