Ask Martin Mann '24 about his dream career, and he'll smile with anticipation in talking about designing new concert halls, renovating old ones and performing in an orchestra that tours the world. It's a big-goal approach that the optimistic BW student is well on his way to achieving.
Mann is one of 10 Baldwin Wallace students who are bridging a major in BW's Conservatory of Music with a STEM major. For these students, the dual programs enable them to lean into their analytical, creative and technical acuity. And while STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) may not be a familiar term to some people, advocates of the concept believe the addition of the arts infuses STEM with newfound creativity and innovation.
Creating his own pathway to a career
Interested in acoustics, Mann is studying French horn and engineering. The Milford, Michigan, resident came to BW because it has both a great music school and engineering program that emphasize hands-on learning.
"BW made it possible for me to not only double major but to create my own path to achieve my career goal. Since coming to BW, I have become more confident about my goal and the route I am taking to achieve it. I am excited and motivated about the future," said Mann.
"My professors care about my classmates and me," he went on to say. "They want us to succeed and enjoy talking with students, whether it is to offer advice for career goals, help with a class, or listen if a student is having a bad day and wants to talk about it.
"I know that in the future BW will continue to help me achieve my goal by helping me find internships and potential employers, as well as continue to prepare for auditions for grad schools and/or orchestras," he emphasized.
"BW has been there for my family and me all along. When a job layoff affected our finances, BW offered additional assistance. The scholarships I received made BW less expensive than public schools. The BW community is amazing," said Mann with appreciation.
