Onward: An interview with Megan Kramer
MINOT, N.D. – Coming from a town about 35 miles outside of Minot, Megan Kramer, a dedicated music education major at Minot State University, decided early on that your past doesn’t define you and you get to determine what your future will bring.
Raised in a close-knit community where her graduating class was 14 people, including herself, she learned early on that success isn't about where you start — it's about how far you're willing to go. Now, as a junior college student balancing coursework, performances, and teaching opportunities, she is proving that passion and perseverance can turn even the quietest beginnings into a symphony of success.
Curious to gain insight into Kramer's symphony of success, University Communications reached out to learn about her recent achievements and time at MSU.
Tell me about yourself.
MK: I am a junior music education major here at Minot State. I have a vocal emphasis with Dr. DeVera Bowles, and I take a lot of pride from being a college student here.
What brought you to Minot State?
MK: My parents were very influential in “nudging” me towards Minot State University. I had always intended to go to a big university in high school, but my parents saw how wonderful the music faculty, education, campus environment, cost, and social life were here and encouraged me to reconsider. I had several music faculty reach out to me prior to my decision, which also changed my opinion rather quickly. Dr. DeVera Bowles and Dr. Erik Anderson, in particular, were two professors that really made Minot State begin to feel like home before I was even a student here.
What are some of your favorite things about the Minot area?
MK: There are so many things I love about Minot State, but I would have to say the opportunities I’ve been lucky enough to be a part of have shaped my experience immensely. Our college has the unique perspective of being small enough that students here have the chance to participate in so many different conferences, workshops, and several travel opportunities.
What helped you choose your major?
MK: I was told it was going to be a couple of years down the line still, but I just couldn’t give up music. After thinking about it for months, I realized music was where I belonged.
We heard a rumor that you just won an award in choir. Can you tell me about that?
MK: Absolutely! Last year, our choir began an apprenticeship program with the Norwegian choir, The Oslo Chamber Choir. Christina Larsen won the first year and had an incredible experience. This year, I was lucky enough to be selected for this program. Our choir is already traveling to Norway for ten days, and I will be lucky enough to spend an additional seven days with them in May. I will be able to spend time studying and growing musically both with the Oslo Chamber Choir and the St. Olaf Choir while they are touring at the same time. I absolutely cannot wait for this opportunity to immerse myself in Norwegian culture and represent Minot State.
Another achievement I have made recently is taking first place in the Senior Honors Competition here at Minot State. This means I will be performing with the Minot Symphony Orchestra on March 22 with my solo, “Donde Lieta,” from Puccini’s La Boheme opera.
What are your biggest motivations?
MK: My biggest motivation is my drive to do my best in everything I do. I’ve always been the type to give 110% of myself to hobbies, work, and school alike, which has definitely gotten me in trouble with burnout in the past. I have always been the type to believe that hard work will pay off, and in my experience, what hasn’t paid off from good work has usually taught me a lesson I’ve needed.
Of course, none of this would be possible without my friends, family, and professors, who have pushed me to become better. Sometimes, we all need a nudge (or shove) in the right direction. I’ve been lucky enough to have people in my life who tell me when I need to slow down or push through a tough spot. Despite my thoughts going into my degree, music is a challenging degree to get. You have to learn a lot about yourself and be willing to grow not just as a student but as a person. There are a lot of late nights studying, performances, and missed chances to hang out with the people you love because of the last two. It gets stressful, so having the support system I’m lucky to have has made the difference for me personally. With that being said, this degree is the most rewarding and perfect place for me to be. I’m one of a small percentage that is able to know what I want to do with the rest of my life, so I’m diving headfirst into that.
What are your plans after you graduate?
MK: After graduation, I plan to attend graduate school to get my master's degree in vocal studies, specifically in opera. Following that degree, I will apply for Young Artist Programs with operas and eventually build a career in this field.
Do you have any advice to give?
MK: Honestly, I would give the same advice that I gave at a high school graduation speech. I still don’t feel like I have enough life experience to give advice myself, but what I’ve seen from the people who have lived long enough to know a thing or two about life is that money, recognition, or awards won’t be what brings you happiness. I currently find much more enjoyment from spending time with the people I love or practicing in an empty practice room than I do winning an award. I’ve found personally that trying to bring others a small glimpse of the happiness I’m looking for has made all the difference.
What do you do outside of school?
MK: Outside of school, I love studying opera, spending time with family and friends, my cat Gambit, working at Caribou, organizing the next meeting for our collegiate National Association for Music Education (NAfME) club and Music Student Advisory Council (MSAC), watching tv shows, and attempting to relax when I get the chance.
Are we missing anything in telling your story?
MK: I was from a small farm just 35 miles south of Minot and had a graduating class of 14 (including myself). I don’t think where you grow up matters at all in where you go. I’ve found having a deep connection with what drives you makes all the difference.
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through
rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
Published: 04/25/25
