Shining Student Ty Clewes

Inspired by those around him, Ty's University of Lethbridge journey as an educator began with helping out in his mom's classroom. What began as lending a hand with small tasks has grown into a true passion and career. Now, he is determined to create an innovative music program for young artists, following in the footsteps of those who motivated him.

I've always admired my friends and family who were teachers, and I love getting to see the positive impact that music can have on new musicians. The best educators in my life have shown me that teachers have the ability to shape the learning environment in their classroom, and when done well, this environment can inspire positive growth and a sense of community. 

"Anyone who has met Ty will say that he is positive, hard working, polite and easy to be around," says Dr. Chris Mattatall, associate professor in the Faculty of Education. "He fully throws himself into his teaching and his students love him for it. Ty clearly understands what engagement is all about; he expects it of himself and he expects it of his students."

Meet Ty: Driven. Creative. Charismatic.
Hometown: Lethbridge, Alta.
Program: Bachelor of Music/Bachelor of Education | Major: Oboe Performance

What are three unique facts about yourself?

1. I enjoy composing and arranging music in my free time.
2. I have three Australian tree frogs.
3. I love to travel to places near the ocean.

Why did you choose to pursue Education at the University of Lethbridge?

I chose to pursue Education at the University of Lethbridge because a lot of my family members graduated from the Faculty of Education and recommended the program to me.

Did you know what you wanted to study before you came to ULethbridge? Has your academic plan changed since you began your studies?

When I was much younger, I knew that I wanted to study music. However, the Education path emerged as I started teaching music to people and helping out in my mom's classroom more often.

What excites you most about becoming a teacher?

Being a teacher comes with a lot of professional development opportunities. I'm interested to see how I can create a unique and innovative music program in my school, and I'm excited to continue learning and sharing my love for music with the people around me.  

Tell us about any learning experiences out in the field and how they have impacted your education.

My most memorable practicum experience was on a professional learning day when my teacher associate and I had the opportunity to go to Standoff and participate in a horse therapy session led by Blackfoot elders. The objective of the activity was to learn from the horses and the land, assessing how our personal emotions influence our teaching and leadership abilities.

How have your professors or instructors impacted your education? Are there any faculty members who have made a big impact on your time at ULethbridge?

I have had many great professors and instructors throughout my time at the University of Lethbridge. Some honourable mentions would be Dr. Chee Meng Low, Dr. Chris Mattatall, Dr. Lloyd McArton and Bente Hansen.

What piece of advice would you give to future Faculty of Education students?

Don't be afraid to try new things and fail once in a while. It's not possible for every lesson to go perfectly, but you won't know if something works until you give it a shot.