A year ago, the Christensen Realty Group was unanimous in selecting Westview graduate Nathan Bahen as the winner of our 2023 scholarship contest based on his engaging and unique perspective in his essay response to the book “The Go-Giver”. We were immediately impressed by his thoughtful and humorous commentary and the vision he had for his future. Recently, I caught up with Nathan to learn about his first-year experience at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.
As an Electrical Engineering major (EE), Nathan endured a rigorous academic schedule. His courses included Physics, Linear Analysis, Chemistry, and Computer Science among others so far; meanwhile, he obtained his ham radio technician license over the previous summer and joined the Cal Poly Amateur Radio Club. Having recently bought his own transceiver, he anticipates more involvement ahead.
As a counterpoint to the logic-intensive world of EE, he continues to hone his artistic talents and musicianship. He shares the role of Lead Trumpet in the Cal Poly University Jazz Band with its demanding rehearsals and performances that require commitment and practice. He finds that jazz is a reliable respite for his mind to let loose and be spontaneous, separate from his studies. He also plays trumpet in the Cal Poly Mustang Band, which has livened up the football season with extravagant marching shows and hyped up volleyball and basketball games during winter. He traveled to San Francisco with the Mustang Band to march in the Chinese New Year Parade, and competed in a Battle of the Bands against rival UC Davis.
One of the highlights of Nathan’s first year at college has been finding a tribe of friends among fellow engineering majors and the band. He acknowledges that the weight of academics along with music can be a lot, so Nathan recharges by spending time outdoors hiking around campus and engaging in quiet activities like reading or watching his favorite show.
I asked Nathan what he has learned about managing life in college so far, and what advice he would share with graduating seniors. He described these three striking points of wisdom: “First, don’t procrastinate – you need to lock in to your plan and manage your time. College is ten-times the challenge of high school, and the majority of learning takes place outside the classroom. Second, don’t overburden yourself – you need to maintain balance in your class load and allow yourself to take mental breaks. We all have good and bad days, but what’s important is to make sure to stay intact on those bad days. Third, be teachable – while immersed in a community of competitive, intelligent and motivated people, be open-minded with others and share the gaps in knowledge in a constructive manner.”
Before finishing our conversation, Nathan treated me to an impromptu trumpet performance, showcasing his technical and improv skills. As he played “Patterns” by Oliver Nelson I was struck by his talent and determination. He reflected that his music is an escape and it helps him refine his thinking and his goals. With the motto “No Ceiling” from his jazz director, Dave Becker, Nathan is certainly up for the challenge! “No Ceiling” seems totally appropriate for where he is heading in his future.
The Christensen Realty Group is honored to have a small role in Nathan’s successful launch into college. We wish him continued discovery, joy, and success at every turn. Congratulations Nathan Bahen! 03/29/24
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What an incredible young man!