By Branden Ferguson

Mike Campbell '17 never imagined going back to school to earn a master's degree. He was a successful music teacher at Belleville High School in Michigan, a career he had built since 1998. But after several interactions with a music professor from Bowling Green State University, Campbell found himself exploring the possibility of returning to school.

Campbell's relationship with Ken Thompson, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Music Education in the BGSU College of Musical Arts, started with an eye-opening conversation.

"I remember the first time I met Ken Thompson was at a band director workshop in Detroit," said Campbell. "He talked a lot about rehearsal strategies, teaching techniques and things that were eye-opening for me."

Their relationship continued when Thompson served as a clinician at a Belleville High School music festival.

"Each time we spoke, he would talk to me about the master's in music education program at BGSU," said Campbell. "He sold me on the flexibility and practicality of the program."

Campbell was nervous about returning to school after an 18-year gap. He would be balancing his role as the associate director of bands at Belleville High School, husband and father with being a full-time student in an online master's degree program.

"BGSU Online met me where I was as a working professional, father and husband," said Campbell. "The program worked around my schedule and allowed me to earn my degree quickly and effectively."

While he was excited to earn his degree and learn more about being a music educator, Campbell said he didn't expect the immediate, transformative impact his coursework would have on his daily life.

"In the classroom, we avoided busy work and research, instead focusing on practical tools that we could apply to our own classrooms as band directors," said Campbell. "I was able to reflect on my own teaching and refine it to be more efficient in my rehearsal skills. I got my students to accomplish more and discovered inefficiencies that were preventing them from taking it to the next level."

Campbell earned a master's in music education with a specialization in teaching artistry from BGSU in 2017. He continues to work with band students at Belleville High School, co-directing marching, varsity and symphony bands, and directing the school's jazz and concert bands.

"Being a music teacher is one of my life's greatest achievements," said Campbell. "I get to share in the success of students and celebrate their hard work in and out of the music program. My goal is to provide a family-like atmosphere where students can grow."

One of Campbell's students not only found himself through the music program but also credits Campbell for his growth as a musician and as a person.

"I realized that band is more than just playing an instrument, it's about the community and friendships that music brings together," said Belleville senior Samvith Lanka.

"Mr. Campbell makes real connections with all of his students and notices when a student is having trouble. I was very introverted my freshman year, but with Mr. Campbell's help and support, I have made many friends and strengthened my commitment to music."

Lanka began playing piano at a young age, but said he didn't fall in love with music until high school.

"I have played music since I was five, but I never truly had a passion for it until I met Mr. Campbell," Lanka said. "I can't imagine giving up all the growth I've experienced with Mr. Campbell through marching, jazz and symphony bands."

Campbell's influence has extended beyond the classroom; Lanka is now considering BGSU for college. The recent announcement of in-state tuition for students in Wayne County, Michigan, has opened his eyes to the real possibility of becoming a BGSU Falcon.

"I am interested in pursuing a degree in engineering and music," said Lanka. "Even if I choose not to become a music teacher, Mr. Campbell has inspired me to not only participate in music ensembles in college, but also to share my love of music with others through music lessons and directing."

Campbell said the kind remarks he has received from students, current and past, continue to inspire him to do more in the classroom.

"I had a student nominate me as an influential band director, resulting in my name being added to a float at the Rose Bowl Parade," said Campbell. "I have received heart-wrenching letters from students who said band was the only thing that brought them happiness and purpose when their lives were falling apart. These are the things that keep me going as a director."