Sebastian Wilson
Name: Sebastian Wilson
Age: 22
Major: Music Performance - Piano
College: College of Fine Arts
Hometown: Harlingen/Brownsville
High School: Saint Joseph Academy, Brownsville TX
Why UTRGV?
I chose UTRGV because I have a family member who is a retired faculty and the affordability of this university was also a factor.
What made you decide on your current major?
My grandmother was my inspiration for becoming a professional musician. I always knew that I wanted to become a musician since the age of seven.
How are you maneuvering being a student during the COVID-19 pandemic?
I am happy to say that I have adapted well to the dynamic situation that this pandemic has brought.
What are your greatest strengths and what are some challenges?
My strength is that I have learned how to not be stressed by external things outside of my control.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
I want to pursue a masters in the field of music and what I do after depends on my situation. I will either become a freelance musician or return to UTRGV as an educator.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
The Brownsville campus is a beautiful and I like to take walks around campus on the weekends occasionally. I also want to say that I really enjoy the time spent with my colleagues, professors (particularly Dr. Saxon) and staff in the School of Music.
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Resident Assistant has been instrumental in how I view being Vaquero and what this means is that I strongly believe in the community and support that we have as students in all aspects of life here at UTRGV.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
UTRGV has given me many opportunities and I am eternally grateful for. My mentor, Dr. Saxon put me forward to participate in the Texas Music Teachers Association Young Artist Competition and I earned first place at that venue in 2020. I have been given leadership and management opportunities by being a Resident Assistant at Casa Bella. I am learning to be an educator by being given the opportunity to be a Music Tutor working at the Learning Center. These are a few of the opportunities I have received, and they are many more!
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing degrees during the COVID-19 pandemic?
My advice to students is that the pandemic is a temporary situation and that we should continue to do the best that we can on our end. I promise that with this mindset despite the situation you will receive the benefits. I am urging every student support the university financially after they graduate.