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Rachel Voran
Hometown: North Newton, Kansas
Class of 2012
What’s your major? Why did you choose it?
Music Education. I have wanted to become an orchestra teacher ever since I started playing the violin in 6th grade.
What brought you to Bethel?
I actually didn’t want to come to Bethel at first because I was from Newton. I had been involved at Bethel for a long time and wanted college to be something completely new. After high school, I left for a year of voluntary service in Colombia. Before I left I made arrangements to go to a college in Iowa. However, while I was gone, I heard that the string faculty at that college had all left to work at another school. I was crushed and figured I should look for another school, but I didn’t know how to do that from so far away. A friend of mine suggested that I try Bethel for a semester, get my bearings, and then transfer once I could find another school. This seemed like a good idea, and I was beginning to realize that it wouldn’t be so bad to be near my parents for a while. So I came to Bethel, and I loved it so much that I never left!
What activities have you been involved in?
BC Orchestra - violin; Wind Ensemble - percussion; Concert Choir - assistant conductor; Church Choir director; Student Alumni Association - Secretary and President; Apprentice Violin Instructor - Bethel College Academy of Performing Arts; Instrumental Music Librarian; Newton Mid-Kansas Symphony Orchestra; National Association for Music Education member; International Student Club; Bethel College Summer Music Camp.
How are you different now from when you first arrived on campus?
I had no idea what music was all about, and the more I’ve learned about it, the more I realized that I really knew nothing! My horizons have expanded in music and in other areas. I feel like a much more rounded person.
For what are you most proud of Bethel?
All the progress that’s been happening. It seems that there is a buzz on campus about how things are changing for the better. That’s exciting to see.
How would you like to see Bethel change or improve in the next five years?
I would love to see the campus beautification process continue with renovations of buildings. I think there could also be a stronger connection with the greater Newton community to share resources, learn, and dialogue about issues that impact us.
What has been your favorite course so far, and why?
I really enjoyed Astronomy my freshman year - it was something completely new and I loved using our telescope for nighttime observations! I also enjoyed Music History because I was able to put a lot of my musical knowledge in context. It was a hard class, but worth the work!
Tell a quick story about a memorable moment from your Bethel days.
On European Choir Tour my sophomore year, I had an overnight stay with a host family in France. Two of the family members spoke some English, but communication was difficult! However, they were incredibly gracious and allowed me to use their computer and wash my clothes. Then they fed me a full 5 course meal that concluded with ten different types of cheeses. I don't think I’ve ever eaten so well!
What does it mean to be a Thresher?
To be a Thresher is to be a part of a community where people care about others and where professors genuinely care about you. Within the music department I’ve probably received more help and time from professors outside of class than in class, and I can’t imagine what college would have been like without that support.