NATASHA WALTER
Spring 2004 IDIM graduate with major entitled Interdisciplinary Art. Her IDIM combined course work in violin performance, poetry, and visual art.
WHAT SHE'S DOING NOW…
After graduation I was honored to intern at Milkweed Editions, a local non-profit literary press known nation-wide for its work. I went on to intern with the grants department at the Minnesota State Arts Board and Minnesota Citizens for the Arts shortly thereafter. Currently, I am a freelance writer featuring local art galleries for The Pulse of the Twin Cities. In my free time I enjoy playing in ensembles and taking writing classes as well as practicing yoga. This fall I will be pursuing a masters degree in Arts Management from Dartington College of Arts in England.
HER THOUGHTS ON IDIM…
IDIM provided me with the opportunity to reflect on my major. The advisors I met with encouraged me to pursue the arts in a way that wasn't possible through any other department. I always felt I could come to them with new ideas and they would listen closely to my thoughts and intentions and guide me to clarify them. Ultimately, this led me to pursue my chosen career (arts management) with an unusual amount of experience with various disciplines.
IDIM was a good fit for me because I knew I was passionate about the arts but the major I began with (violin performance) didn't allow me to explore those interests as fully as I believed was possible. Through IDIM, I was able to get exposure to all the arts.
My employers have been extremely receptive to my IDIM major. It has been a jumping off point for compelling conversations that set me apart from other candidates. I truly believe IDIM is an integral part of my success.
ADVICE…
My advice for prospective IDIM students is to have faith that though your major is unconventional it is valuable for that very reason. If you are a person who has many interests and is seeking a way to unite them, IDIM is the perfect place to start. Meet with the advisors even if you are unsure if IDIM is right for you. They were instrumental in giving me the confidence to pursue all my interests and will likely give you a fresh perspective.
