The first week of the fall semester ended on a celebratory note at the Peck School of the Arts as new students got acquainted with campus and their peers through department gatherings and the annual PSOA Fall Student Welcome.
The culminating event serves as an opportunity for new and returning students to network with arts organizations from across the city. More than thirty organizations filled the Arts Center patio to join in the celebration.
These organizations highlight to students why Milwaukee is an ideal place for artists and creative entrepreneurs to study and pursue their goals.
“We are all about harnessing creativity right here in our city,” said Rachel Vander Weit, Development Director of Milwaukee Film. “Milwaukee is such a creative, DIY community… People here have a great impact on the world because we have great and easy resources with an accessible city.”
In addition to celebrating the start of a new year, organizations were eager to make connections with students for internships, creative collaborations, employment opportunities and more.
“Getting your feet wet early on sets you up for success when you graduate,” said Kris Grassi, Development Officer for Membership at Milwaukee Art Museum. “It gives you the tools you need to thrive in an art setting… We love engaging with students, and we want them to know that Milwaukee has great resources for them.”
Many organizations were represented by PSOA alumni who were excited to return to campus and talk to students about the experiences they’ve had since graduating.
“I graduated in December 2022 with a Voice BA,” said Cora Trexell, who now works with Milwaukee Ballet as an administrative assistant for business operations and advancement. “In my last semester, I took a Performing Arts Management class, which helped me with my musical theater and dance career. PSOA set me up to be successful for a career in the performing arts.”
Faculty, staff and arts ambassadors from all areas of the Peck School joined the festivities, serving up free food and getting to know the new incoming class. In all, about 300 students took part in the celebration.
Story by Jason McCullum ’25