Fall 2024 Commencement: Aurora Wentz Forges Her Own Opportunities

Aurora Wentz grew up in a community with little support for students who wanted to pursue career paths outside of military service, trade school or farming and even fewer resources for exploring the arts.

Given the lack of opportunities, Wentz created them herself. 

Curlew, Washington, is a remote frontier community that had one small school for grades pre-K through 12. Determined to pursue a career in the arts, Wentz left the Pacific Northwest for Northeast Ohio. Now, the 19-year-old Wentz is graduating from Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) and heading to a prestigious music school. 

"In my senior year of high school, I moved to Cleveland and finished my diploma through the College Credit Plus (CCP) program at Tri-C while entering the Recording Arts and Technology program," she said. 

After graduating with an Associate of Applied Science from the School of Creative Arts, Wentz will transfer to the Berklee College of Music to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Music Production. She will also continue working with the audio and visual team for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. 

What interests her about music production is its versatility. 

"Sound is a powerful tool that is becoming integrated into all aspects of our lives," Wentz said. "The field is always evolving, and I am looking forward to exciting advances in music production in upcoming years." 

What made you choose Tri-C? When did you first enroll? 

In 2022, I chose Tri-C because it gave me the opportunity to advance in the field that I knew I wanted to spend my life with while completing my high school diploma. Tri-C's Recording Arts and Technology program offers state-of-the-art recording equipment, cross-training opportunities and a partnership with the Berklee College of Music. I knew this would set me up for success no matter which path I wanted to take in audio. 

Describe your Tri-C experience. Has a specific person, class or event played a role in your success? 

Tri-C has opened doors that I did not know existed. It would be unfair to mention only one person when everyone involved with the Recording Arts and Technology department has played a significant role in my success. I appreciate the consistency everyone has shown in encouraging each of us in the program to stay curious, ask questions, and try new things. 

How has Tri-C changed your life? 

Tri-C provided the opportunity to take my next steps at the pace I wanted and with the support I needed. I would not have encountered the unique opportunities to advance in the career I love without Tri-C. 

Do you participate in student life at Tri-C (or have you in the past)? If so, please describe your experiences. 

I have participated in different events such as cultural fairs and the Hip-Hop Homecoming. It was a nice way to branch out of my major and learn about other people's passions. 

Do you have any pearls of wisdom to share with students considering a similar degree or certificate program? 

There are endless possibilities for applying skills gained in the creative arts. Learning how to branch out of your comfort zone, remembering to ask for guidance, and being able to grow and help others from your experiences will serve you well. Stay curious, ask for help, and learn how to take and give constructive criticism. 

Tri-C will celebrate the academic achievements of its newest graduates during Commencement on Dec. 12 at the Wolstein Center in Cleveland. Check our News and Events page leading up to the event for more highlights from the Class of 2024. 

December 12, 2024

By Anthony Moujaes, 216-987-3068 or anthony.moujaes@tri-c.edu