Kacee Dugas

Kacee Dugas is a Master of Music student with specialization in world music performance and cello performance from Katy, TX

Hometown: Katy, TX

High School: Katy High School

Year: Expected graduation: Spring 2028

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
When I started learning to play the cello in sixth grade, I knew I wanted to do music for the rest of my life. I received my B.M. in cello performance and had a career as a cello teacher and performing artist for the last 11 years in the Houston area.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I waited a long time to return to school so I could find the right school that fit my interests. I am working toward a Master of Music degree in world music performance and cello performance.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
Growing up in a very spread-out, massive city, I'm so happy to live in DeKalb and experience the shortest drive of my life to get to campus. I've had such interesting classes this semester, and everyone is so nice. Honorable mention: the geese!

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I've been so fortunate to be connected with so many talented and amazing music students. Everyone has been so helpful and kind to me, especially the first few weeks as I tried to settle in. I also have classes with some of my closest friends at NIU, so we are able to study and hang out together throughout the week.

Are you involved in any student organizations, mentoring programs or extra-curricular activities? If so, which ones? How have they added to your experience as a Huskie?
This semester I started working as a TA for the world music program, and I teach MUHL222: World Music and Cultures. I'm learning a lot as a dual student/teacher, and I love getting to share what I'm studying.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
From the jump, I've had such positive and encouraging conversations when I was starting to apply to NIU. Through every step, I felt informed and reassured in my decision to move to DeKalb, and now, finding the best courses for me to take. Big shout-out to Austyn Menk and Brigid Findley for setting up music students for success!

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Dr. Jui-Ching Wang, of course! She's knowledgeable about so many kinds of music, incredibly passionate about teaching and loves to challenge her students. I admire her endless energy and drive. This semester I am a TA for her course, World Music and Cultures. I’m also her student, taking Survey of World Music and Music of East Asia and playing erhu in the Chinese Music Ensemble. I'm also grateful to also be a part of Cheng-Hou Lee's cello studio. Private lessons can be very personal, and I deeply respect him as an artist and teacher. He's a great person to talk to, and I come out of each lesson feeling more confident.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Simply put, I attend class regularly because I'm here to learn. I get more information in the lectures and any updates to the schedule or assignments.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
NIU has a beautiful campus. I spend the most time in the Music Building, but I love the Music Library and the courtyard surrounding it. I'm a fan of all the furniture from the ’70s in this building and the variety of trees.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Keep looking for that "right" fit; you'd be surprised what is out there. Be patient in your search, especially with regard to costs and distance. If you have the means to apply to multiple schools, it won't hurt to cast a wide net. And, if you're looking for a specific program or person you'd like to study with, reach out! It helps to have your name out there. Even just emailing a potential professor to introduce yourself can help put you in the right direction.

Why is a college education important to you?
I have always enjoyed school, and college is an opportunity to study what matters to me. I've followed my passions, and college has enabled me to learn more about music and connect with future colleagues. Back in Houston, my network came almost exclusively from my university. I really value the chance to continue learning and improve my playing with other talented people.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I’m still working on this part! Between the class I’m a TA for, my own assignments and practicing, it sometimes feels like I don't have much time for anything else. So, I write down my schedule a week ahead of time and give myself time to relax when I can.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
Mostly by word-of-mouth and the occasional school newsletter.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I chat with friends over lunch or coffee or go home and spend time with my cats. I'm trying to get back into regular workouts and yoga sessions, too.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
This semester I am learning three new instruments: erhu, shamisen and a Korean percussion instrument called kkaenggwari.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
NIU has so many amazing ensembles and performing groups. I'd love to just promote the School of Music and have more students from the university come out to see us. There are so few schools in the country that offer this variety of music!