Double-major sophomore student Kyra Grant first started college as a biology pre-med major and realized after two quarters that it was not her calling. With an aptitude for psychology and an understanding of how and why people work, Kyra decided to major in psychology. 

Ever since she was little, she’s loved music, whether it be through listening or playing. By being passionate about music, Kyra felt to pursue the joy music brings her instead of devoting time to a major she didn’t feel was her own. 

What do you appreciate about each program?

Honestly, I could go on for hours about how amazing the music department is. Each and every professor has been nothing but supportive and kind in each student’s journey. I have loved every second I’ve spent getting to know the professors. Each of them has their own unique quirky personalities that make the learning experience much more enjoyable. 

The psychology program is also like this in its own way- each professor has their personality. It makes me smile to see their connection and how close they are through their work and collaboration together. 

How do you balance your classes and social life?

It took me about five quarters to figure this one out. I used to lock myself in my room and not really go out unless I needed food or to practice in Paulin. It wasn’t until recently, this winter quarter, that I started making great friends and connections that I realized I had to balance class and social life. I learned to allocate time and plan my day better so I could spend time with my studies and friends without feeling burnt out.

How do you receive support from your departments?

One of the biggest things I’ve had to learn is that your professors will not know how you’re doing if you don’t speak up. Every time I have asked for help or extensions on assignments, they are so understanding and make arrangements for me, which I truly appreciate.

What made you decide to attend PUC?

In high school, I had come here for a basketball tournament and felt a connection. In a way, it felt like a spiritual calling. I was unsure about it for a bit until my mom later convinced me to follow that. I also wanted to stay in California and attend a smaller college since I had been in the academy for a long time and got used to the size of the community.

You sing and are a double bass, electric bass, and piano player. How long have you been singing and playing these instruments?

I actually haven’t been singing for long. I can give a big thanks to Best of Broadway for getting me out of my comfort zone when it comes to singing since most of my singing background was in academy choirs and music ministries. After the Best of Broadway, I switched from majoring in piano to majoring in voice since I wanted to develop my skills.

When it comes to piano, I’ve been playing on and off since I was about six years old but spent a lot of those years teaching myself. I have also taught myself double bass and electric bass and have been playing those for about 2-3 years. Since my dad drummed a lot and taught me some basics, I can noodle around on the drums a bit.  

Have you always had a passion for music? What inspired you to learn those specific instruments?

From the beginning of my life until now, I can confidently say I have always had a passion for music. Something about it just brought me a huge sense of comfort and, at the same time, made the wheels in my head spin. It was something I could analyze and also destress, which I love in that it uses both the left and right hemispheres of the brain. 

I give a big thanks to my nana for starting piano lessons for my sister and me, and then after that, I decided to pick up other instruments because why not? Realistically, I like the concept of being a jack of all trades, a master of everything, because once I felt confident in one instrument, I wanted to try something else and expand my horizons.

How long have you been involved with PUC’s music ensembles and praise music groups for church? 

I started with orchestra during the fall quarter of my freshman year and felt it was an opportunity given by God. In high school, I dreamed about playing the double bass and decided I’d pick it up in college. I put all my willpower into learning the electric bass so that I could have some background. 

From my transition from high school to college, I contacted Dr. Davis to see if I could pick up the double bass during college, and she said yes! I taught myself and devoted a lot of time outside of class during my freshman year to learning the double bass. 

I’ve been in the orchestra for five quarters, joined the praise group my freshman fall quarter when they had tryouts, and have been playing for vespers or church service when the leaders ask.

How has studying at PUC been beneficial to your education and future?

Interestingly enough, some of my favorite classes haven’t directly linked to my psychology major, but rather the English department. My English class with Hayley Perry and my communications class with Tara Hargrove taught me so much about the subject- it’s completely applicable to my life. 

My music classes have also been like this, but the teachers provided me with multiple ways to critically think and offered different perspectives on life through their teaching styles. The lessons I’ve learned are something I will take with me through life because they have truly motivated me to get through college so far.

What are some valuable lessons you learned at PUC?

There’s been a lot that I have learned academically and morally, but one thing that stuck out to me the most is that patience is absolutely necessary and valuable. Recently, I found a really great friend group and have felt so loved and accepted, but it took some time to find my people.

What is your favorite thing about being a part of the PUC community?

I love being able to know so many faces. I can be pretty bad with names, but when I see a familiar face, I get so excited because they’re always so nice! The community here is always so willing to help and lend a hand whenever someone needs it and I just am proud to be a part of a community that embodies Jesus’ teachings.