Standing on stage just moments before singing the national anthem at commencement, Vanessa Ochoa knew this moment wasn't just any moment. Even though she'd sung at lots of events during her time at Marian University, Vanessa felt this one was special.
"It felt like closing a chapter," Ochoa explained.
“Singing at commencement felt so right, like it was meant to happen, and I was supposed to do it,” she said
For Ochoa, as a vocal performance major, music has always been about more than just performing. She loves using her voice to connect with people and share the gift God gave her.
Native of Warsaw, Indiana, Vanessa followed her big sisters' footsteps and joined Marian University. The minute she stepped onto campus on a visit, she got that warm feeling, like she was meant to be there.
“I got this instant pull,” Ochoa remembered.
Looking back on her four years, she believes attending Marian was exactly where she was meant to be.
“I know now that God wanted me to go there,” she said.
Vanessa also sang in Marian's last musical and took part in worship through MDI, all of which made her a stronger performer.
After graduation, Ochoa will join Seton Teaching Fellows, where she will teach music in underserved communities while also serving alongside other young Catholic women. She also hopes to continue performing and eventually pursue a master’s degree in musical theatre.
“God is calling me to use my voice for Him,” Ochoa said.
So, whether she is on stage, teaching students, or leading worship, Ochoa plans to continue using her voice to make an impact and inspire others through music.