Marketing major Ellie Loftus entered her junior year at Columbia College Chicago with a plethora of skills attained from classes, internship experiences, and being a major component of the school’s music juggernaut, which is Sessions @33.
Hailing from Oak Park, Illinois, and a graduate of Oak Park and River Forest High School, Ellie felt an immediate kinship with Columbia even before attending. “Columbia was attractive to me based on the wide range of programs we offer! Before touring Columbia- I had no idea my major could even be a career path! Columbia opened my eyes to a lot of opportunities, and I loved the Chicago campus, and the community Columbia fostered.”
One of the many aspects of Columbia that Ellie enjoys is the camaraderie and professional advice that seems to be at every turn. “So far, I’ve really enjoyed the connections I’ve made through Columbia, and all of the exciting opportunities in arts and music I’ve been able to have since deciding to attend. Columbia has such a great community of creatives that are constantly motivating success! I love the energy, and I look forward to coming back every year.”
Sessions @33 has given students from many majors an opportunity to work on a weekly music series that focuses on local and national music talent. For Ellie, this series has made a major impact on her career thus far. “Sessions @33 is amazing! It’s one of the first organizations I’ve worked with at Columbia, and I’ve met so many great people and learned so much about music and recording! My work with Sessions has also opened me up to Internship opportunities which is definitely a plus. My goals have continued to evolve since coming to Columbia, and each year I return I learn more about what is possible in the music industry!”
Ellie looks back fondly on her first two years at Columbia, and offers these pearls of wisdom for students. “One thing I would say to incoming students- GET INVOLVED!! The best way to make the best of your Columbia experience is to get involved with clubs and organizations within Columbia, you have a chance to meet so many people and take advantage of great opportunities in the arts. My first year- I didn’t make too much of an effort to get involved- my second year was infinitely better after I did!”
Sessions @33 "Live" Halloween Bassline show takes place on Wednesday, October 30th. In addition to having five up-n-coming bands, the event features a costume contest, giveaways, and much more. Tickets can be purchased at this link.
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