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Mattie Bonner

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Nominee

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Finalist

Bio

I am a classical saxophonist and aspiring music therapist dedicated to using music as a tool for connection, communication, and healing. Through my studies in performance and music therapy, I have developed a strong interest in evidence-based practices that support individuals across diverse populations. I am particularly passionate about creating intentional musical experiences that encourage emotional expression, support speech development, and foster social engagement. In addition to my academic work, I have experience facilitating outdoor and recreational activities such as kayaking, climbing, and ropes courses. These experiences strengthened my commitment to holistic, person-centered care and helped me develop leadership, adaptability, and trust-building skills. My long-term goal is to build a career centered on compassionate, evidence-based music therapy practice that serves diverse communities. I am committed to lifelong learning and to continually developing my clinical skills, cultural responsiveness, and collaborative practice as both a clinician and educator.

Education

University of Kansas

Bachelor's degree program
2022 - 2026
  • Majors:
    • Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions, General
    • Music

Basehor-Linwood High School

High School
2018 - 2022

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Music
    • Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions, General
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Music Therapy

    • Dream career goals:

      Company Founder

    • Lead Adventure Staff and Head Lifeguard

      Girl Scouts
      2021 – Present5 years
    • Research Assistant

      KU Music Therapy
      2022 – Present4 years
    • Office Assistant

      KU BANDS Office
      2022 – Present4 years
    • Tutor

      Self-Employed
      2020 – Present6 years
    • Intern

      National Archives and Records Admistration
      2019 – 20201 year

    Sports

    Dancing

    2011 – 20154 years

    Research

    • Music

      KU Music Therapy — Research Assistant
      2022 – 2026
    • Historic Preservation and Conservation

      National Archives and Records Administration — Intern
      2019 – Present

    Arts

    • KU Wind Ensemble

      Music
      2024 – Present
    • Basehor-Linwood Band

      Music
      2017 – Present
    • Basehor-Linwood High School Theatre

      Theatre
      Mary Poppins, Wicked is as Wicked Does, Who's Dying to be a Millionaire, Dorthy in Wonderland
      2019 – Present
    • KMEA State Band

      Music
      State Band
      2021 – Present

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Girl Scouts of America — Girl Scout
      2010 – Present

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Entrepreneurship

    Marcus Yates Giving A Care Scholarship
    Shreddership: A Music Scholarship
    School Spirit Showdown Scholarship
    Mattie Bonner Student Profile | Bold.org