My name is Amaya Bragg and I am currently finishing my senior year at ODU with a BA in Music. I first started out as a criminal justice major at Bowie State but ended up transferring and changing my degree to a career path that felt suited to my goals and desires in a much better way. I transferred to ODU’s music program and I’ve loved it here ever since. Although I am a full-time student I also have a part-time job outside of class. My parents are also both college graduates with associate’s degrees and my father is in the military. I have two brothers, one older and one younger. Since a young age I’ve always enjoyed making music, and participating in anything that has to do with it. I got my first guitar when I was about 8 and I’ve been playing since. I then learned how to play the drums, and the piano, which I took on from my mom. I’ve always felt that my relationship with music has had a definitive impact on my character and who I am. Music is a big part of me and I believe it is also an important part of life in general. In college I’ve been awarded with the Landmark scholarship, SOAR, and the ODU general scholarship.
Though I have no direct plans to become a musical educator in the future I do find the career path very important, and believe that teaching is a great way to connect yourself with your musical experience, which you then have the opportunity to spread that knowledge and inspire others. Since I was also granted the grace of being a part of the Student Advisory Council at ODU, I enjoyed the experience of being able to speak with other members about how we can better the music student’s experience. I think that being open to learning can help you grow not only as an educator but as a person as well.