Music to Their Ears
Written By Asia Howe
Video interview filmed by reporter, Asia Howe and edited by editor, Amber Manini.
It’s easy to make a buck. It’s a lot tougher to make a difference. – Tom Brokaw
It is not often that opportunities to volunteer with an organization land at one’s feet. Either an outfit must be sought after, has enough help, or prefers donations of money rather than time. Mike Jerry, a twenty-two year old University of Hawaii at Hilo (UH Hilo) senior and Performing Arts: Music Concentration major, was not seeking out an opportunity to volunteer when he came across one—or, when one came across him. “I was looking for a part time job,” he states, “and St. Joseph got back to me with an internship offer [through which I would] learn how to be a band teacher. So I took it.”
In effect, Jerry currently volunteers for Randy Skaggs at St. Joseph Catholic School. His schedule consists of donating his time each Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 1 pm to 3:30 pm. “[I] direct beginning band, help teach fifth grade recorders, and oversee the low brass section in intermediate band,” said Jerry. When asked about what he has taken away from his experience, he responds, “I have learned how to take a new piece of music and explain how to play it in terms children can. Also, [I have learned] how to conduct a band instead of a choir.”
Mike Jerry, senior and Performing Arts: Music Concentration major. Photo courtesy of Mike Jerry.
Regarding what he has brought to his volunteer work, Jerry acknowledges, “I have played in bands in front of audiences. I play open mic nights a lot and use that ability to stand in [front] of the class and teach. Also, my senior project has been helpful [for] explaining music.” After reflecting on how his volunteering has impacted his life, the senior asserts, “It is busy and a little stressful but it is worth [it] in the end to see progress.”
“It all happens if you try hard enough and put your mind to it,” Jerry ends. “Volunteering is great. It gets you in the community, of what you in the community, want to do. [Moreover,] you will meet mentors along the way that can teach you a lot about your subject.”
Students interested in volunteering may visit the Office of Applied Learning Experiences (ALEX) Volunteer Fair on Wednesday, March 18. Please contact Thomas DeWitt at tsdewitt@hawaii.edu or (808) 987-6551.
