By: Kaelie Kellner

Everyone in her family was a teacher and her Grandpa served on the Education Board, so she knew she wanted to be different than the rest.

Choir teacher Melissa Noonan was a finance major for her first two years in college and was convinced that she wanted to make a living as a banker.

“If I’m going to college, I want to make good money,” said Noonan.

During her junior year of college, she realized that making a lot of money isn’t always the key to happiness. It’s more about doing what you love.

Growing up, Noonan took piano lessons, accompanied and sang for choirs, and constantly listened to music. She wasn’t joking when she said music is in her soul.

“It’s what makes me happy,” said Noonan.

That’s when it all made sense. With just a few short weeks before her Junior year began, she called the UNL Music Department. She was swamped with applications and auditions that had fast approaching deadlines, but some how she knew it would all be worth it.

Today, Noonan has been teaching for over 20 years and has had experience at three different high schools. Her first year teaching at Southeast was her favorite year. Although she followed high expectations from a very good teacher, she felt constant support from her colleagues and students even when she knew she made a mistake.

“I get to make music every single day with really great people,” said Noonan, “High schoolers are old enough to create amazing things but young enough because they’re so open.”

As she teaches five choirs at Southeast – three large groups and two small groups – Noonan unquestionably says she has the best job in the world and is so grateful for her families in and outside of school.

“Every year is different,” said Noonan, “It’s never predictable and that keeps it from getting old.”