Alyssa Marley (left), with Dr. Hyun-Jung Kang
Alyssa Marley, a senior Music Therapy and Psychology major, has been chosen as the Honors Student of the Month for September.
In her nomination of Ms. Marley, School of Music Assistant Professor Hyun-Jung Kang notes she is an “excellent student and student music therapist who has a profound passion for her academic, clinical and personal growth. She has worked hard to improve her academic competencies and musical, therapeutic and clinical skills.
“Alyssa…is dedicated to her clients and music therapy sessions with authenticity and compassion. She truly delves into how she can help clients… She also has high motivation and organizational skills, which have enabled her to excel in project management and achieve high outcomes.”
Marley’s talent also shines forth in her leadership in campus organizations. She is president of Sigma Gamma Phi; vice president of the Music Therapy Club; treasurer of Rince: Fredonia Irish Dance Club and a member of the Some Like It Hot a cappella group.
Originally from Seneca Falls, NY, Marley notes that "the clubs on campus also really helped me to get out of my comfort zone and find like-minded people who truly value and respect me as an individual."
That has also given her a strong "sense of community here at Fredonia. Every day I'm meeting new and amazing people and I appreciate that I can walk down the hallway and always be able to say hi to someone I know!"
Marley also voiced appreciation for the distinctive courses the Honors Program offers, noting, "I love all of the classes that are offered with the Honors Program. I was able to complete all of my Fred Foundations with the Honors Program in classes I actually enjoyed. With the Honors Program, I was able to take classes in songwriting, astronomy, yoga, border crossings and theater."
This is Marley’s last semester of classes. Starting next semester, she has her professional semester for Music Therapy. She will complete a six-month music therapy internship in Fort Wayne, IN, though she notes that she "will definitely be back to walk in graduation in May." After graduation, Marley plans to become an MT-BC (a board-certified music therapist), along with attending graduate school to become a mental health counselor.
Marley gives thanks to Dr. Heeyoun Cho, Dr. Rebecca Warren and Dr. Kang for their help and support throughout her four years at Fredonia. She also gives a shout-out to Sigma Gamma Phi, Music Therapy Club, Some Like It Hot and RINCE, noting that she doesn't know "what I would do without all of your love and support."
The Office of Residence Life sponsors the Honors Student of the Month Award and organizes the award with the Honors Program.
