15 minutes with Amanda Rhonemus
What year did you graduate BHS?
I graduated from BHS IN 2009.
Where are you going to school and what's your major?
This fall I will be a senior at Capital University in Columbus, studying Vocal Music Education in the Conservatory of Music.
Why did you decide to go to that school? Was the program that particularly of interest to you?
I decided to attend Capital University for a couple reasons. First, I have only heard good things about Capital's music education program.
Second, two of my close friends, teachers, and role models, David and Linda Sycks, actually attended Capital's Conservatory of Music and had only good things to say about the program. The fact that Capital's music program is so professional and is so helpful in preparing for a career in music education was definitely a huge reason as to why I chose to attend.
Capital University is a small university. Growing up in Bluffton definitely helped create a bias for small communities where people are accepting and supportive of each other. I felt that Capital was the best place for me to have this "small town community" sort of feel. I knew that by attending Capital I would be able to get the education and one-on-one time I needed in order to be successful in my studies and future career.
Third, Capital is in Columbus. While Capital is a small university in Bexley, the university is only 10 minutes from down town Columbus. I love Columbus! While living in the big, bad, city is completely different than living in good ol' Bluffton, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time living in Columbus
What's the best thing about living in Columbus? Do you have any favorite "hot spots" to eat or shop at?
I think what I like the most about going to school in the city is that there is always something new and exciting to do. This is especially so in the music world. Whether it be going to see an opera or musical in the Ohio Theatre or going to see a friend's band play in a local restaurant, there is always new people to meet and music to hear.
As far as shopping goes, you cannot go wrong with Easton Town Center. There is a wide variety of stores and restaurants all in a beautiful outdoor mall setting.
Eating, hmm... well, toward the end of the year, my roommates introduced me to a restaurant near OSU called "Gooeyz". A bit of a strange name, I know, but it will make more sense when I tell you they serve gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. I can honestly say that grilled cheese has never tasted better.
Another favorite Columbus restaurant is "Spoon Me." Again, with the weird names "Spoon Me" is a frozen yogurt shoppe that opened up just across the street from Capital. They have a wide variety of frozen yogurt flavors and toppings, all of which you get to put on yourself. My friends and I went there at least once a week once we tried it... it was kind of a problem.
Gooeyz sounds amazing! Since living in Columbus for the last couple years, have you found yourself becoming more of an avid fan of the Buckeye's?
-I always have and always will be a fan of the Buckeyes. But to be completely honest, the reason I go to OSU games is for the marching band. I'm a nerd, its ok!
I remember you always being passionate about being in the band! What are your fondest memories of being in the band/band camp?
Oh goodness...where to start...I can honestly say that I loved being in marching band. There was actually an award created for me called the "I Love Marching Band More Than Life Itself" award- it was one of those things that people made fun of, but I absolutely loved. I think my favorite part of marching band is the half time show at Friday night football games. This was where we got to show all the hard work we put in for our 15 minutes of fame. I don't know that I can put the feeling into words, but I can say that I always have and always will be a marching band geek.
So, what are your plans for this summer?
My plans for this summer are to work, read, and participate in the World Choir Games with the Capital University Chapel Choir. I've been told it is the Olympics of the choir world. It will be interesting to hear and sing with people from all around the world.
That sounds like it will be an awesome experience! Work wise, where will you be employed? What are some of the responsibilities that come along with the job?
- I work at Bluffton Child Development Center in the kindergarten and school age room. My responsibilities include educating and looking after the children in the summer program. We try to get the kids to have fun through trips to the library, pool, and bowling alley, as well as fun crafts and games at the center. My favorite part about working at the Development Center is interacting with the children. They are all so fun to be around! Sometimes I think I learn more from them than they do from me!
You mentioned that you will be a senior this coming year, what do you see yourself doing a year from now after graduation?
After graduation, my plans are to find a middle school/high school choral education position somewhere in Ohio. I would love to be in a rural setting with a program that I can shape and make my own. I am very passionate about music education and I want to find the place where my passion can be used to help and inspire others.
You raved about the gourmet grilled cheese at Gooeyz, so what is your favorite food? Least favorite?
- My favorite foods would have to be fresh fruit, fresh baked bread, and cheese. I think they are the perfect combination for a cute little picnic. My least favorite food is probably Greek or Indian food. I am not the biggest fan of garlic and exotic spices.
Interview conducted by Donald Ring, summer Icon intern.
