Fostering student development
For Kathleen Herling ’09, a music therapy major from Onalaska, Wis.
and recipient of the Robert Karlén Scholarship, studying at
Augsburg allowed her to identify and explore her passion for helping
others with music.
Herling wanted to study music but was not interested in teaching or performing. Her high school piano teacher suggested music therapy, a career she hadn’t considered. “It sounded like a good fit,” Herling said.
As a student, Herling played clarinet in the Augsburg band and orchestra. She’s enjoyed performing and working with the music department faculty. “They are always there to help.”
Herling met Robert Karlén, professor emeritus of music at Augsburg, at the brunch for donors and scholarship recipients held each spring. She invited Karlén and his family to her senior clarinet recital. “I was happy to share my hard work with him.”
To complete her degree requirements, Herling is participating in an internship at a geriatric facility in Dayton, Ohio, this summer. She was introduced to geriatric therapy through her practica experiences at Augsburg and likes the field because of the slower pace. “I get more time with clients,” she said. “I can hear their stories and really get to know them as people.”
The Robert Karlén Scholarship was created by merging smaller music scholarships to honor Robert Karlén’s distinguished career, with the leadership of Robert Karlén and Merilee Klemp.
