Staff

Cynthia Schmidt

Background History: Originally from the Midwest-Iowa (but have lived in many parts of the country and been to Africa 25 times. For education, received M.A. and Ph.D degrees in music/ethnomusicology from UCLA; Taught as Visiting Assistant Professor for 2 years at the University of California, Santa Barbara; 2 years at Wesleyan University in Connecticut, and 2 years at Hunter College in New York City and 1 year at the University of Sierra Leone. My recent documentary, "The Language You Cry In"  won several awards in 1998 including the Best Documentary at the International Independent Film Festival in New York City and the Silver Medal in the Houston Film Festival.

Name: Cynthia Schmidt

Position: Instructor for Lecture on Ethnomusicology

Thoughts On Upward Bound

 

What is it like being around high school students vs. college students?

More alive. More awake! I really enjoy quiet enthusiasm.

How did you get involved in Upward Bound and why?

When I was asked to participate, I knew it would be a challenging experience. But it's on a topic that I love to teach.

What is your fondest memory in Upward Bound so far?

Seeing the students participate in drumming and Ashanti dance movements with Konimo and his daughter Stella-particularly the wrapping of the 10 yards of cloth and "then seeing the students admire his efforts in that wonderful "walk" (like a chief).

How do you motivate yourself at work?

Not difficult when there are 60 eager students. They seem "READY!"

Besides working for UB, what are some of your hobbies?

Playing the piano and percussion. I love to dance! Walking around the lake.

If you were an Upward Bound student, how helpful would it have been for your college career?

My brother was the first in our family to go to college, so I know I had moral support. I was fortunate. But I would have found it an easier adjustment as a UB student in terms of the heavy load, competition, etc.  That I didn't expect during my Freshman year.