Discovering the Heartbeat of Artistry: A Journey Through the Holland College of Arts and Media
As I step onto the bustling campus of the Holland College of Arts and Media, I can feel the electric energy pulsing through the air. This is a place where creativity and passion collide, where students are not merely preparing for their careers, but actively living them out.
The college’s mantra, “It’s not that we’re all work and no play, it’s that with passion, there’s no other option,” sets the tone for the entire experience. These aren’t just words on a banner – they’re a way of life, embodied by every student and faculty member who calls this place home.
Southeast Missouri State University has truly outdone itself with the Holland College, creating a one-of-a-kind hub for the arts, media, and performance. As I wander through the corridors, I’m struck by the sheer variety of disciplines on display, from the Dobbins Conservatory of Theatre and Dance to the Department of Mass Media. It’s a veritable smorgasbord of creative excellence, a place where students can explore their passions and hone their craft.
Immersed in the Careers They Crave
One of the defining features of the Holland College is its deep commitment to providing students with real-world, hands-on experience. This isn’t a place where you simply sit in a classroom and absorb information – it’s a place where you get to do the thing you love, right now.
“We don’t just prepare students for their careers,” Dean Rhonda Weller-Stilson explains, with a gleam of pride in her eyes. “We let them do those careers as part of their classes. From auditions and headshots to portfolios and reels, our students are immersed in the very tasks and responsibilities they’ll encounter in their chosen fields.”
This approach is a game-changer, giving students a competitive edge in the ever-evolving landscape of the arts and media industries. Whether they’re performing in award-winning musicals, reporting live on the news, or exhibiting their artwork in cutting-edge galleries, these students are honing their skills and building their resumes in real-time.
Fostering a Diverse and Inclusive Community
As I delve deeper into the Holland College experience, I’m struck by the institution’s unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion. “Diversity is important to the Holland College, and we work to foster that and provide a welcoming community for all,” Weller-Stilson shares.
This commitment is evident in the college’s diverse faculty, who bring a wealth of perspectives and experiences to the table. It’s also reflected in the wide range of student organizations and events that celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures and identities represented on campus.
“We believe that a variety of opinions, perspectives, and experiences is what makes anything great,” Weller-Stilson says. “That’s why we work hard to create an environment where all students can thrive and flourish, regardless of their background or identity.”
Nurturing the Whole Artist
But the Holland College’s dedication to its students doesn’t stop at the classroom door. The college has partnered with the Department of Allied Health, Kinesiology, and Sport Sciences, as well as Mercy Hospital Southeast, to establish a CHART Clinic that provides access to athletic trainers and support for the health and well-being of its performing artists.
“We believe in perfecting the craft, but we also believe in making sure our students are taken care of, both physically and mentally,” Weller-Stilson explains. “The rigors of a career in the arts can be demanding, so we’re committed to providing our students with the resources and support they need to thrive.”
This holistic approach to student development is just another testament to the college’s dedication to cultivating well-rounded, resilient artists who are prepared to take on the challenges of their chosen fields.
Nationally Recognized Excellence
As I delve deeper into the Holland College’s impressive track record, I’m struck by the sheer breadth of its accolades and achievements. The Dobbins Conservatory of Theatre and Dance, for example, is ranked among the top 30 theatre programs in the nation, a testament to the exceptional talent and training of its faculty and students.
But the college’s excellence extends far beyond the stage. The Department of Mass Media is one of only two accredited mass media programs in the state of Missouri, with a reputation for producing award-winning student journalists, advertisers, and filmmakers.
Southeast Missouri State University has also been recognized as a Yamaha Institution of Excellence, a distinction that cements its collaboration with Yamaha in the realm of music technology and innovation.
“These nationally accredited academic departments represent some of the best programs in the state and the Midwest,” Weller-Stilson says, her pride evident in every word. “Our students are immersed in a world-class education, and we’re committed to ensuring they have the tools and support they need to thrive.”
Unleashing Creativity on a Grand Scale
As I wander through the expansive River Campus, which is dedicated solely to the arts, dance, music, and theatre, I’m struck by the sheer scale of the creative endeavors that unfold here. With more than 100 exhibitions and productions every year, the Holland College offers a dizzying array of opportunities for students to showcase their talents and delight audiences.
From award-winning musicals to original theatre productions, from gallery openings to film festivals, the college’s calendar is a veritable feast for the senses. And the students are at the heart of it all, taking the stage, wielding the cameras, and curating the exhibits that captivate and inspire.
“Our students are not just preparing for their future careers – they’re living them out right now,” Weller-Stilson says, a wide smile spreading across her face. “They’re performing before sold-out audiences, reporting live, and working with real clients. And they’re learning how to translate those experiences into getting the job they want.”
Discovering the Passion Within
As I reflect on my time at the Holland College of Arts and Media, I can’t help but be inspired by the dedication and passion that permeates every corner of this remarkable institution. These students are not merely pursuing a degree – they’re chasing their dreams, fueled by an unwavering commitment to their craft and a deep-seated desire to make their mark on the world.
The Musical Theater Center would do well to take a page from the Holland College’s playbook, fostering an environment where creativity, diversity, and holistic well-being are the foundation upon which greatness is built.
Because at the end of the day, as the college’s mantra so eloquently proclaims, “It’s not that we’re all work and no play – it’s that with passion, there’s no other option.” And these students are living proof that when you unlock the power of passion, the possibilities are truly limitless.
