Emalina Ascenzo, a graduating senior with a double major in Psychology and Music at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), has been awarded the Presser Scholar Award. This $3,000 award is given to senior music majors who have shown excellence in music and academics, leadership, and service.
Ascenzo, who plays the flute, shared her experience as a double major. “Every semester felt like a whirlwind…being a part of a psychology lab, and performing in several music ensembles, but it all helped me grow into the person I am today,” she said. “All of my experiences helped me blossom as a musician, student, and overall individual.”
During her sophomore year spring semester, Ascenzo decided to run for corresponding secretary of TCNJ’s women’s professional music fraternity Sigma Alpha Iota. This role gave her insight into leadership and eventually led her to become president the following year.
Her presidency was marked by planning service initiatives that fostered sisterhood among members and united them through their love for music. “I learned what it was like to be a leader and a part of a community, and it pushed me to want to serve others in the best way I can,” Ascenzo said. “My journey as a music major was definitely not a linear path, but it led me to so many amazing opportunities and experiences, and I don’t regret a thing.”
Last fall, Ascenzo performed “Mysterium” by Jennifer Higdon with flautist Olivia Huegias as one of the soloists. She described this opportunity as an honor that showcased her growth as an artist.
Reflecting on her recent spring recital performance before family, friends, and former teachers from elementary and middle school, Ascenzo expressed pride in her musical development since starting flute lessons in fourth grade.
Balancing both majors was challenging for Ascenzo; however, she combined these passions for her senior capstone papers which inspired future career aspirations. She aims to pursue school psychology at Fairleigh Dickinson University using music therapeutically with children.
“The people in the musical department made me feel valued while taking on another major,” said Ascenzo about receiving this recognition. She plans on utilizing funds from this award towards graduate studies pursuing masters’ degree focused on school psychology.
“I’m so grateful that I’ve had the opportunity to study both psychology and music while being at TCNJ,” concluded Ascenzo hoping others find inspiration through her story believing their abilities are worth investing time into exploring further possibilities within themselves too.”
