Author: Sydney Snow

Sydney Snow is a University of Mobile 2022 graduate with a double major in English and Strategic Communications and a minor in Spanish. During her senior year, Sydney interned with UM’s Office for Marketing and Public Relations. Today, she works at the South Alabama Regional Planning Commission with the Employment and Economic Development Services department. Her focus is on the Senior Community Service Employment Program.

Alabama School of the Arts presents Steinway Artist Donna Lee in Concert Oct. 19 at University of Mobile

by Sydney Snow

MOBILE, Ala. – The Alabama School of the Arts Piano Festival V will present a master class and concert with Dr. Donna Lee, a Steinway Artist and professor of music at Kent State University.

The concert will be held at 7 p.m. on Oct. 19 at Moorer Auditorium in Thomas T. Martin Hall on the University of Mobile campus. Lee will perform works by Schubert, Schumann, Janáček, and Chopin. Admission is free.

A master class will be held Oct. 18 at 3 p.m. at Moorer Auditorium. Admission is free.

Lee earned her doctorate from Peabody Conservatory of The John Hopkins University, master’s from The Juilliard School, and bachelor’s from the University of Maryland, College Park. She has taught at Peabody Conservatory, Bucknell University, and Interlochen Art Camp in Michigan. Presently, Lee is a professor of piano at Kent State University.

Please note that face masks are required in the University of Mobile buildings. For COVID-19 guidelines at UM, visit umobile.edu/coronavirus.

For more information, contact the Alabama School of the Arts at 251.442.2383 or visit umobile.edu/asota.

Lee’s performances have been described in Italy’s II Fronimo as “elegant and refined,” in WCLV-Cleveland as “engaging,” and in Japan’s Iwate Daily News as “brilliant.”

Lee made her solo debut in 1990 with the National Symphony Orchestra. She has since appeared as a soloist and collaborative artist at Kennedy Center’s Concert Hall and Terrace Theatre in Washington, D.C., and Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall in New York City. She has performed in Asia, Europe and throughout the US, with performances in Sheyang, China, Brno, Czech Republic and Maui, Hawaii.

Lee made her solo recording debut on Azica label, with a program entitled Scenes from Childhood with works by Schumann, del Tredici, Medtner, and Prokofieff. In 2011, she released a record on the Blue Griffin label of Felix Mendelssohn’s Complete works for cello and piano with cellist Keith Robinson. Fanfare Magazine called the disc, “…quite simply, amazing.”

As a soloist and chamber musician, she has performed at the Ameri-China Festival in China, Gotland Chamber Music Festival in Sweden, Brevard Music Center in North Carolina, Interlochen Arts Center in Michigan, Kent Blossom Music Festival in Ohio, Maui Classical Music in Hawaii, Music-on-the-Hill in Rhode Island and Classical Tahoe in Nevada.

A frequent collaborator with clarinetist Daniel Gilbert, the husband-wife duo has performed throughout the U.S., including recent performances in Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Michigan, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, South Carolina and Washington, as well as in Chengdu, China.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers on-campus and online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.

For more information about the University of Mobile, visit the website at www.umobile.edu or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

5 Tips to Success in an Online Course

by Sydney Snow

I took my first online class when I was in my sophomore year at the University of Mobile. I was excited to finally say I have taken one, but I was also a little nervous to take a non-traditional course. Through my experience, I have found that UM Online courses are just as effective as in-person classes, and they can even be helpful for those who need a more flexible schedule. There were some challenges for me to adjust to online classes; however, there are simple ways to overcome those challenges.

Set goals for the day. Procrastinating your work while outside of the classroom is an easy thing to do and can be even easier when you do not go to a classroom. Set a goal for how much homework or studying you want to complete that day. You will find that all your work gets done in a timely manner, which takes stress and pressure off you.

Get up as if you are going to class. Treat online classes the same as you would a traditional class. Get up, move around, and properly prepare your books and other supplies. This will put you in a good headspace as if you were going to an actual class.

Start assignments before the end of the week. Assignments in online courses are often due at the end of the week. It can be easy to put off assignments and cram the material into one or two days. Do not put off the assignments until the day of or the day before the due date. Starting assignments in a timely manner will give you more time to properly complete the assignment and decrease stress.

Do some work outside. If possible, try to get fresh air and sun while doing your work. Working in a non-stressful environment can give you the best chance of taking all the information in.

Keep your professors informed. Your professors at the University of Mobile want to help you succeed as much as they can. Keep them updated on how well you understand the material. This allows them to provide the proper help you need to be a successful student. Also, do not be afraid to ask questions. Email your professor or send a message on canvas about any problem. The teacher is there to help you.

Every professor I have had in a traditional class here at UM has been more than helpful with any question or concern that I have. When any sort of problem arose in my work or personal life, my professors encouraged me through it and offered help any way that they could give. I can say the same about the online professors I have had at UM as well. When a problem arises, they want to help in any way they can.

Alabama School of the Arts presents Music Pedagogy Workshop with Nationally Certified Music Teacher Barbara Laurendine

by Sydney Snow

MOBILE, Ala. – The Alabama School of the Arts Piano Festival V will present a music pedagogy workshop: “Freeing the Sound from the Printed Page” with Barbara Laurendine, a nationally certified teacher of music.

The free workshop will be held at 3 p.m. on Sept. 29 at Moorer Auditorium in Thomas T. Martin Hall on the University of Mobile campus. Please note that face masks are required in University of Mobile buildings.

For more information on the workshop, contact the Alabama School of the Arts at 251.442.2383 or visit umobile.edu/asota. For COVID-19 guidelines at UM, visit umobile.edu/coronavirus.

“The lecture will be based on teaching young students to look at the silence of notes on paper and put them into sounds of music from the paper,” said Laurendine. “What is the process, what to look for, how to gather information, how to approach learning so that when the music is played the composer’s wishes are conveyed. In other words, freeing the notes into sounds.”

Laurendine earned her Bachelor of Arts in piano from the University of Alabama and is a member of Phi Alpha Mu Music Honorary. She is a former adjunct instructor at the University of Mobile, where she was the founder of and director of a successful, 18-year summer music camp. She is currently a teacher of piano, repertoire, piano ensemble and a piano pedagogy consultant.

She maintains a private studio for preparatory and adult students. Many of her former students have gone into various fields of teaching, performing and composing music. In 2001, the Alabama Music Teachers Association named her Teacher of the Year. Her professional credits include a membership in the Music Teachers National Association and the Mobile Music Teachers Association. She is a co-founder of the DaCapo Fund, an Alabama Music Teachers Association revenue source designed to assist teachers and enrich worthy statewide projects in music education.

Laurendine frequently judges piano competitions and conducts pedagogy lecture workshops throughout the southeastern United States. She has taught and arranged music for piano ensembles and performed music in a multitude of piano groups, including local music organizations, schools, and churches.

In March of 2001, the Music Teachers National Association in Washington, D.C., established a Foundation Fellowship Award in recognition of her contributions to the field of music instruction. Named by Mobile Bay Monthly as one of Mobile’s Most Influential People in the Arts, she was the recipient of the Greater Mobile Arts Award for Outstanding Educator in the Field of Music in 2005.

Laurendine has held the presidencies of the Alabama Music Teachers Association and the Southern Division of M.T.N.A. along with services on the Board of Directors and the Board of Trustees. She has also been on the Board of Directors of the Mobile Youth Orchestra, the Mobile Symphonic Pops Band, the Mobile Chamber Music Society, and the director of many competitions and festivals of music.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers on-campus and online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

University of Mobile Online Programs Accepting Applications for Flexible and Convenient Degrees

by Sydney Snow

MOBILE, Ala. – University of Mobile online programs are accepting applications from students who are interested in earning bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees online.

With UM online programs, students get the same higher education for a higher purpose that on-campus students receive. The online courses give students the flexibility of 8-week sessions, with personal attention from faculty at a Christian university recognized as a Best Value School by U.S. News & World Report.

“Online programs at the University of Mobile offer students the same exceptional quality of education we have been delivering on campus for the past 60 years, but now in a more flexible model that fits the needs of many people in our society,” said Dr. Todd Greer, vice president for Academic Affairs.

“Each program is shaped by full-time faculty at the University of Mobile and taught by experts in the field that are able to mentor you as you pursue your career goals.”

For more information on online programs and to apply, visit umobile.edu/online.

Online undergraduate programs include Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN, Bachelor of Science in Christian Leadership and Ministry, Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, and Bachelor of Arts or Science in Psychology.

Available graduate programs include Master of Music in Music Education, MSN Family Nurse Practitioner (BSN to MSN Track), MSN Nursing Education, MSN Executive Leadership, Master of Arts in Education, Master of Education (MED) Instructional Design and Technology, Master of Education in Higher Education Leadership and Policy, Master of Arts in Biblical and Theological Studies, Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Leadership and Communication, and Doctor of Nursing Practice.

“Our online undergraduate degrees can prepare you for the world ahead without demanding you to stop working, being a caregiver, or any number of demands individuals are currently experiencing,” said Greer. “The graduate programs that we offer in an online format allow individuals to recognize their own upward mobility as they step out and lead in a variety of areas.”

Applications are being accepted now at umobile.edu/apply. For more information, visit umobile.edu/online or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers on-campus and online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

What the University of Mobile Has Given Me

by Sydney Snow

The University of Mobile has given me things that I have only ever dreamed of having. UM has given me relationships that will last a lifetime, the career path that I did not know I wanted, and a reason to step out of my bubble.

Being at UM has provided me with some of my best friends and others that will continue with me throughout my life. I have made friends from the next county over, across the country, and even around the world. They are not any ordinary type of friends; they are like family. They push me to be my best self, grow in every aspect of life, and love me for the person that I am. I know the relationships I have built here will last a lifetime — no matter the distance.

When I first came to the University of Mobile, I was convinced I wanted to be an English teacher. I love to write and learn about grammar, so that seemed like an obvious career path to me. After my first semester, I realized that was not the path for me. The faculty at the university opened my eyes to careers I did not know existed. Thanks to my advisor, I found out that communications was the career path I really wanted to take.

I was also given a reason to step out of my shy bubble when I came to UM. I was always very shy and did not feel as if I belonged with any group. After arriving at the University of Mobile, I was put into an environment that was different for me. I grew up in a small town where you knew everyone. Being put into an area of completely different and new people really encouraged me to put myself out there. As a result, I found myself becoming more confident in myself and in my relationships with others.

Thank you, University of Mobile, for giving me a second family and a passion I did not know I had.

The Academy at University of Mobile Offers Private Music Lessons

by Sydney Snow

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile announces affordable, private music lessons for all ages available through The Academy in the Alabama School of Arts.

The Academy will provide lessons in voice and instrument on the University of Mobile campus. Virtual lessons are available upon request.

“The Academy at the University of Mobile has been such a great experience for my daughter,” said Paige Hill, whose daughter studies piano. “I would recommend The Academy to any parent looking for a special place to take their child for musical instruction.”

Lessons start at $25 for 30 minutes and $45 for an hour. There will be opportunities for a recital performance each semester.

Instructors include highly trained undergraduate and graduate students of the University of Mobile. Premier instructors include faculty of the University of Mobile who have received a master’s degree or higher.

“These instructors are eager to develop skills as educators and want to pass their love for music to others,” said Rebekah Lipscombe, director of The Academy and a University of Mobile graduate and instructor of music.

The Academy is designed to present and develop high quality arts training programs in music, theatre, art and dance through year-round training for all ages.

Visit umobile.edu/theacademy to register and learn more information about the private music lessons.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers on-campus and online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.

For more information about the University of Mobile, visit the website at www.umobile.edu or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

How to Relieve College Stress

by Sydney Snow

College is one of the best experiences of your life, especially with the friendly community that exists at the University of Mobile. You learn more about yourself, make friends that will last a lifetime, and decide on your career. Although it can be a fun time, there are also times where you can find yourself in a stressful situation. Maybe you have assignments due or also must hold down a job. Stress can be good or bad. Good stress motivates us to push ourselves and try harder to achieve our goals. Bad stress can negatively impact our sleeping patterns, mental state, and so much more. Through my own experiences, I have found a few simple solutions to relieving college stress.

Take deep breaths. The amount of oxygen we have flowing through our body can impact every part of us — our body and mind. In my experience, stress can cause me to take shallow breaths, restricting the amount of oxygen coming into my body. Taking deep breaths in stressful situations allows you to get oxygen back to essential organs and bring a calming presence to your mind.

Take a step back from the situation. In any situation that can cause you stress, take a step back — mentally or physically. Mentally, ask yourself if the situation is worth the stress and worry you are putting on yourself. Physically, move on from what you are doing — if possible, re-group, and address the problem with a clear head.

Spend some time outdoors. There is beauty and serenity in nature. I often find myself using nature to combat stress, worry and/or anxiety. Use the natural beauty that God has created to allow yourself to relax. Fresh air and sunlight are also great for the mind and body. One of the biggest recommendations for stress relief is exercise. In my experience, this is the best form of relief from anxiety, stress, and worry. The exercise you do does not have to be extreme. A brisk walk or jog at the University of Mobile’s beautiful 880 acres campus beneath the live oaks can melt away the stress

Start on assignments as early as possible. Procrastinating assignments can lead to stress. Keeping a steady hold on your assignments and their due dates can take pressure off you. I recommend starting assignments, and finishing them, as soon as possible. You will also have more free time to attend events hosted by the University of Mobile or hang out with friends.

Think of something positive. Focusing on negativity can lead to more stress and panic. To combat negativity, I try to look on the brighter side of the situation or look at the glass as being half full. Being in a positive headspace can be the most relaxing thing for your mind.

Spend time with God. Read your bible. Pray about your worries and concerns. I would recommend simply having a conversation with God about your problems and what is going on in your life. Talking with God about any problem throughout the day is something that you can do aloud, with your thoughts, or even in a journal. Give your worries to God and let Him handle it all.

University of Mobile Homecoming Oct. 1-2 Celebrates 60th Diamond Anniversary

by Sydney Snow

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile invites alumni, students, parents, faculty and staff to celebrate its 60th anniversary at Homecoming Weekend Oct. 1-2. Events include a concert by Big Daddy Weave, a Dove Award winning band whose members met on the UM campus.

“We are thrilled to be celebrating the university’s 60th anniversary this year,” said Allie Ratcliff, director of alumni relations and community engagement. “Homecoming festivities will include an outdoor concert with Big Daddy Weave, hot air balloon rides, food trucks, a soccer tailgate and homecoming court. We hope that graduates and their families will return to campus to reconnect and celebrate our diamond anniversary with us.”

For details, ticket prices and to RSVP, go to umobile.edu/homecoming.

Festivities begin Friday, Oct. 1 with a First 15 lunch at 11 a.m. for the first 15 graduating classes from Mobile College. Food trucks, hot air balloon rides, and yard games on the front lawn will begin at 5 p.m. for students and 6 p.m. for alumni. A Big Daddy Weave concert will be on the front lawn at 7 p.m. Bring your own lawn chairs and blankets.

On Saturday, Oct. 2, graduates can catch up with friends over a cup of coffee during coffee around town from 8 – 11.a.m. Moka’s Coffee, Carpe Diem, Nova and Serda’s Coffee will be offered at a discount.

Other events on Saturday include a disc golf tournament, an art exhibit: “Uncharted Blue,” and a history exhibit. The art exhibit will be located at the Marilyn Foley Art Gallery, and the history exhibit will be in Weaver Hall lobby. An Alumni of the Decade awards brunch, by invitation-only, will be in Ram Hall at 10 a.m.

The afternoon is filled with many outdoor soccer events at The Jungle, including a soccer tailgate lunch. Homecoming Court will be announced at 1 p.m. Women’s and Men’s soccer will both play Faulkner University. Women’s soccer begins at 1:30 p.m., and men’s soccer begins at 4 p.m.

Additionally, there will be a homecoming dance for students at 8 p.m.

For more information on events and to register for the concert, disc golf tournament, and soccer tailgate, visit umobile.edu/homecoming.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers on-campus and online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.

For more information about the University of Mobile, visit the website at www.umobile.edu or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

How to Thrive as a College Commuter

by Sydney Snow

I spent my freshman year living on-campus at the University of Mobile. In that year, I made friends that supported me no matter where I lived. When I moved back home in my sophomore year, I struggled with the thought of being unable to attend activities hosted by the university due to distance and a part-time job. However, I discovered the University of Mobile makes it easy for commuter students to be part of campus life while living at home.

Check the different activity schedules. The University of Mobile uses multiple channels to reach students and provide them with a schedule of all activities and events. These schedules include “The Rundown,” weekly text messages, and messages posted on tv monitors around campus.

Schedule around university events. Many students have jobs outside the university. Balancing school, work and fun can seem impossible at times, but it does not have to be. Most part-time jobs are willing to work around school schedules and events. You can still attend events and activities by letting your manager know ahead of time.

Find friends that encourage you to participate in events. Making lasting relationships is a major part of the college experience. Surrounding yourself with people who want to enjoy activities and events offered by the university will positively impact your experience.

Join a group, club or community. There are many groups, clubs and organizations associated with the University of Mobile that host events and activities on-campus, off-campus and after school hours. This can provide more opportunities for commuters and transfer students to be involved and make friends.

Be open to interacting with students outside of your normal friend group. There are times when your friends will be busy with school and work. Do not be afraid to engage in a conversation with a classmate or another student. There is potential to form new relationships and open new doors in your life.

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