After graduating with my Bachelors in Secondary Math Education from IUP, I decided to continue my education at Ball State University. There, I received a Master of Arts in Student Affairs Administration for Higher Education which is a fancy way of saying that I can work in the realm of higher education. Having just graduated in July 2016, my job search lead me to being a Hall Director at Morehead State University. I currently oversee four residence halls on campus and supervise 22 student staff members. Although I do not currently play my violin, when I think back to my time in the Moon Band and Orchestra, I can't help but remember all the friendships I made and how it taught me to get along with individuals that are different from you. It's a life skill that has been very beneficial and necessary, especially when you move 5 hours away from home. Being in our music programs gave me a lot of opportunities to be involved, gain more leadership skills, and be a dependable team member. Most students join band or orchestra because they just want to play music, but it's the life skills that are hidden within our instruction that really make a difference!

Hi!  My name is Lexie Thomas, and I graduated in 2011.  I was a member of the Moon HS Orchestra all 4 years, and Mr. Barthen was my teacher.  I then went on to Old Dominion University where I played Division 1 soccer and received a degree in Marketing and Fashion Merchandising.  I recently got a job with Under Armour Performance Company and am still based in Pittsburgh.  I hope to move positions within the company at some point, but I am at a great point in my life where it is time to grow up and live in the real working world!  The music program at Moon truly helped me develop as a person and adult.  Mr. Barthen was a huge part of that, and he will always be my favorite teacher and influencer.  I learned to manage my time tremendously between studies, two sports, and orchestra practices/performances.  I also learned many life lessons along the way that reached far beyond the music itself.  Although I obviously didn’t pursue a career in music, Moon Orchestra definitely shaped me into the person I am today.  Not a day goes by where I don’t miss it, and it will always be a part of who I am!