Scott Metlicka

What year did you start working at NIU?
2020

Where is your hometown? and where do you live now?
My hometown is Batavia, Illinois. I currently live in Elgin.

Where did you attend college and what degree(s) have you earned?
B.M., Northern Illinois University
M.M., Northwestern University

Were you a first-generation college student? If so, what advice would you offer to current first generation students?
I am a first-generation college student. My parents and grandparents did not continue their education past high school. Having a college degree has opened many doors for me. Seek your dreams and continue down that path toward your goals.

What do you like about working at NIU?
My fellow instructors in the music department are great colleagues! I also like the fact the music building is close to walking and biking trails. I’ve ridden my bicycle to NIU from Elgin a few times.

What advice would you give to students currently attending NIU?
Finish your degree. Yes, it can be difficult at times. I’ve never heard anyone regret getting an advanced degree.

Tell us about a research or engaged learning project you have led.
My position does not require research, but as a freelance musician I have been subbing with Lyric Opera and Grant Park Symphony. In June I played piccolo with Lyric’s production of “West Side Story” and played flute for four weeks with the Grant Park Symphony.

What do you enjoy most about mentoring students?
In a competitive field like music, you must find your niche. I like mentoring students to help them find their passion and show them what they do that stands out.

What do you hope students take away from their college experience?
Use your time at NIU to find yourself, figure out your goals and try a little bit of everything. Later in life, you may not have time for these things!

What is your favorite memory of NIU?
In the music building, students have ample space to practice their instrument in a safe, spacious and acoustically pleasant environment. I used to spend hours in the practice room! Many universities are unable to provide ample space for music students to practice their instrument, but NIU does.

What’s one thing about NIU that’s surprised you?
Some things have changed, but other things remain exactly as they were 30 years ago when I was a student at NIU!

What fulfills you personally and professionally?
I am very lucky to make a living as a musician. I perform, teach and have some skills managing musical events. I have a very full life and am grateful for the variety!

Which of NIU’s core values align with your own?
Curiosity and creativity. Take advantage of everything NIU has to offer and use those experiences creatively to achieve your career goals.

Have you contributed to any NIU Foundation fundraising campaigns such as the Day of Giving or Huskies United? If yes, why did you decided to support NIU?
I have contributed to the School of Music so deserving students who may not be able to afford music school get the same opportunities I had.

Who has influenced your professional path?
Many previous teachers and colleagues I have met in my academic and professional path have influenced me! I am grateful to all of them. My high school band director, Jim Stombres, was the first person who encouraged me and influenced my path.

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you currently doing it? If not, what changed your path?
I always wanted to be a professional musician.

Are you a member of or hold a position within a professional or community organization? If so, what organization? What is the purpose of that organization and how does being part of this organization benefit you in your role at NIU?
I am a member of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra and the Rockford Symphony Orchestra. I won my first position with the RSO when I was a student at NIU.

What community organizations are you involved in?
I have served on the board of directors for the Elgin Youth Symphony, Chamber Music on the Fox and the Chicago Flute Club.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I enjoy spending time at my cabin in northern Wisconsin and biking along the Fox River trail in Elgin.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
NIU is a welcoming place no matter what your background is. For me, it was a perfect place to grow and transition out of my childhood environment.