Fine Arts Shining Student Hana Hubley

Hana Hubley was not quite sure she wanted to study music when she started at the University of Lethbridge. However, with the support of studio teacher Dr. Nick Sullivan (BMus ’04), Hana has found their calling.

I am so fortunate to not only have a student-teacher relationship with my professors, but also a personal and professional relationship with them as well. I consider many of them friends and colleagues.

Meet Hana | Dedicated. Confident. Musician.
Program: Bachelor of Music | Major: Music (Tuba Performance)

Why did you choose ULethbridge?

What drew me to ULethbridge was that many of my music teachers growing up studied both their Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Education here. I looked up to my teachers growing up so coming here seemed like the obvious choice. I also heard great things about Dr. Nick Sullivan (BMus '04) before applying and knew I wanted to work with him just from his reputation; and when I came here, I immediately knew that I made the right choice.

Being just a few hours from home was another reason why ULethbridge was appealing to me. I was able to become independent and move away from home, but still have the support of family when I needed it.

Did you know what you wanted to study before you came to ULethbridge?

When I applied to ULethbridge, I knew that I would apply for music. Music has been a lifelong passion and I could not see myself truly doing anything else with my life. My future plans have changed numerous times since I began my degree. At first, I wanted to become a high school band director; then, a studio musician; then, a composer; and my plans kept changing. If I've learned anything, it's that I should lean into the unknown and find excitement within my changing plans.

What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience so far?

Completing my Graduation Recital was my most memorable experience so far. Every performance major must complete an hour-long recital as part of their studio course requirements. Getting to that point is a long process and takes years of practice, analysis, and dedication. But, the feeling of accomplishment and pride that accompanies the recital is like no other. Your entire degree leads up to that moment, so to complete it is quite the feat for any music student that does it.

How have your professors or instructors impacted your education?

I am so fortunate to not only have a student-teacher relationship with my professors, but also a personal and professional relationship with them as well. I consider many of them friends and colleagues. They have been very influential beacons of guidance through these past five years, and have encouraged me to strive for things outside of what is offered at ULethbridge.

Dr. Nick Sullivan, Bente Hansen, Dr. Chee Meng Low, Dr. Arlan Schultz and Dr. Rolf Boon specifically have had a major impact on my time here. They've kept me accountable for my studies and skills, while always encouraging me to go one step further with everything in my life.

Is there anyone else who has had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?

Breeanne Fuller and Breanne Stewart from the Conservatory of Music have been incredibly influential in my academic career. They took a chance on me when they first asked me to teach their Mini-U classes in Fall 2021, which has led me to other opportunities through the Conservatory. All of my employers in recent years have impacted me greatly because they have opened doors for me within the performing arts community of Lethbridge. Vicki Hegedus, Keelan Cashmore and Amanda Berg to name a few.

One individual lately has been guiding me as I near the completion of my degree and start to find full-time work, which is Dawn Leite (BMus '04). Dawn has helped me with resume and cover letter writing and has also encouraged me to step into my confidence as a young woman in the workforce.

Last but not least, my friends and family near and far have had my back since day one. I'm so lucky to have a family that supports my passion and career choices and is only concerned about my happiness. My friends from back home and in Lethbridge have helped shape me into the musician and person I am today.

Have you received any scholarships and awards?

I have been fortunate enough to receive a number of scholarships throughout my time here at ULethbridge. One of the biggest ways in which they have helped me is with my instrument purchases. Tubas aren't the cheapest things, so the thought of having to buy one was very daunting to me. But now, with the help of scholarships and donors, I now own two tubas and am better equipped to be a tuba player. I sincerely thank the donors for their support because I would not have made it this far without their generosity.

Tell us about your experiential or work-integrated learning opportunities at ULethbridge and how these have enhanced your education?

In fall 2022, I had the opportunity to become the Social Media Content Creator for the Conservatory of Music through an Applied Study. Through that experience, I was able to experiment with techniques and styles of content creation that would be the most aesthetically relevant to the Conservatory. I attended group classes and private lessons and created ads for various programming and events.

I learned many skills through this Applied Study that has helped prepare me for life after graduation. Proper email/phone etiquette, good communication skills, and confidence in my choices are just a few things that improved during this experience and continue to improve as I continue my position. I was also encouraged to say "yes" to more opportunities as they are presented to me. You never know when one seemingly insignificant choice can have a major positive effect on your life and career.

I had such a narrow view of what I could do with my music degree before coming to ULethbridge, but programs like this applied study have shown me that there are so many options out there in terms of career. You don't have to limit yourself to just one thing.

What are your hopes/plans for the future?

The future feels foggy right now, but I know for sure that I want a career in which I can build community—in the arts or not. I've found such joy in being part of a strong community at ULethbridge, and I know that if I follow that joy, only good things will come.

What advice would you like to give those about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?

Keep an open mind in regard to your path. You never know when an unexpected opportunity gets presented to you. Say yes to as many things as you can, even if it scares you, and allow yourself to experience the exciting uncertainty of change.

Quick Answers

What are the top three things you like to do in or around Lethbridge?

1. Attend live shows at venues like The Owl to support local artists and friends who are in bands.
2. In the summer months, I love being outside with friends. That could mean a quick trip to Wally’s Beach, or a little picnic at Nicholas Sheran Park.
3. Being a part of local ensembles such as the Lethbridge Community Gold Band and Brass Band have given me some of the best memories while in Lethbridge.

Favourite place on campus: I love the Recital Hall.

Favourite activities to do in southern Alberta? Visit Waterton, go for walks in the Coulees, and finding little hidden gems around Lethbridge.

Favourite place to study? If not the library, I love studying in a local coffee shop like the Penny Coffee House or Sonder.