Meet Robin Dangol
Degree:MA Music Theory (collaborative graduate specialization in music cognition)
Completed a master’s degree in Arts (ethnomusicology) at Kathmandu University
Roles: International Student
Peer Guide Volunteer
Home Country: Nepal
Fun fact about me
I try to stay cheerful and be full of positive emotions. I believe I have developed a capability to deal with negative emotions and turn them into positive ones.
Why I chose Western
Throughout my professional life as a music educator, I have developed a deep curiosity about the psychology of music, including music perception and the neural processing of music and sound. This interest led me to search for related courses, ultimately discovering the field of music cognition. After researching courses worldwide, I found the program at Western appealing due to its course offerings and music cognition specialization program. Additionally, the city of London is a captivating place to live. This made it easier to choose Western.
Highlights of my Western Experience
In addition to the courses, I had the pleasure of participating in the Music Cognition Workshops organized by Western's Music, Cognition, and Brain Initiative which allowed me to interact with students/professors from other departments.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my time at Western was my involvement in the International Peer Guide program. Every meeting, conversation, and relationship I built with my peers and mentors enriched my experience.
Additionally, I completed several training sessions at the Centre for Teaching and Learning, which provided invaluable insights into teaching and communication within a university setting and helped me manage the pressures of graduate studies.
These experiences have allowed me to forge meaningful connections and grow both personally and professionally.
An accomplishment I’m proud of
Completing the course itself has been one of the greatest achievements. Furthermore, moving to Canada and joining Western, where I built meaningful relationships with many interesting individuals was a significant achievement for me. It wasn’t solely about academics; over the past year, I have learned a great deal about life. I have grown significantly and this maturity and growth over the past one year is the accomplishment I am proud of.
What's next for me
I look forward to applying and sharing the knowledge I gained during my studies at my former university, where I previously taught. In a couple of years, I plan to pursue my doctoral studies and become involved in a long-term research project focused on music and well being.
Advice for new students
I recommend prospective students to explore all the opportunities and resources available on campus and to engage actively in workshops and programs offered by universities (beyond your department) in addition to lectures to enrich your academic experience. Don’t let the pressures of graduate or academic life overwhelm you; find your own ways to have fun and unwind. Embrace every aspect of university life, and make the most of your time at Western.
