Featuring Libbi Tillemans of Hastings, Neb., who is majoring in Vocal Music Education at Wayne State College.
Thanks to one of her former teacher’s passion for music, Libbi Tillemans plans to embark on a teaching career of her own. Tillemans, a junior from Hastings, Neb., who is majoring in Vocal Music Education at Wayne State College, is the subject of a special segment of the Student Spotlight Series, which is celebrating National Transfer Student Week Oct. 20-24.
Tillemans transferred to Wayne State from Northeast Community College in Norfolk, Neb., where she took classes for about one year.
“The transfer process was very smooth, and Wayne was close to Norfolk where my husband and I were already living,” said Tillemans. “Wayne State is also inexpensive compared to other colleges and universities, and you get more out of your education by being in smaller classes. The head of the Wayne State’s music department (Dr. Angela Miller-Niles) was easy to communicate with, and she ensured that I was enrolled in all the right classes.”
Tillemans said being able to work closely with the instructors was another advantage she found at Wayne State.
“All the professors I work with are dedicated and care about the success of their students,” said Tillemans. “They make themselves available to you whenever you need them.”
At Wayne State, Tillemans is active with the Wayne State Concert Choir, Lyrica, and Wayne State Jazz Ensemble.
Tillemans will graduate in May 2027. She would like to get a part-time job as a high school music teacher or accompanist so she could spend more time with her baby girl.
Fun Fact: “I was a two-time state champion in powerlifting in high school! I still lift every day, but if I'm cranky, I probably didn't get my workout in.”