Name: Andrea Leon-Moreno
Positions Held and Short Bio (involvements, accomplishments, etc.): President of Sigma Alpha Iota (Music Fraternity), Member of the production team for the FIU Music Festival and the FIU Music Hour
Major: Master of Music Business: Production and Management
Why did you choose your major?
I have always loved the pre-production, production, and post-production side of putting on live concerts. I love having to put events together and figure out solutions to any discrepancies that come up when producing a concert because when you end a concert, and see the successful final product, it brings a sense of accomplishment and joy.
Did you always want to pursue a career in the music/art industry?
In high school was when I decided that I wanted to pursue a career in music. When I was young, I originally wanted to go into the sciences and become a veterinarian, but at the end of the day, I realized that music was what made me happy.
Why did you decide to come to FIU for Music and what path did you take to get to where you are now?
Florida International University has a great music business program. The professors care about the students’ education and are well-practiced mentors. The path that I took to get to where I am now is that I learned about music, being a performer, and learning about what is needed to put on a production.
Tell us more about being a RATCLIFFE Incubator Fellow/Scholarship recipient.
Being a part of the Ratcliffe Incubator has been a very positive experience. Having three mentors that are guiding me to creating a successful business in my field is a priceless resource that has been provided to me through this scholarship.
How has your major helped you in your fellowship?
It has taught me accountability, teamwork, has given me better communication skills, and has given me entrepreneurial skills.
Have there been any professors/staff members that have solidified your decision to pursue your major and/or encouraged you throughout your fellowship?
Professor Karen Fuller and Dr. Liza Seguido have helped solidify my decision to pursue my major. They have pushed me to learn more and perfect my crafts that will be helpful in the music business. Dr. David Dolata has encouraged me throughout my time at FIU to become a proficient writer and improve my written communication skills.
What are your plans after graduation and do they involve the field you are studying?
My immediate plans after graduation are to be a stage manager for the In-school opera program which is exactly in my field of study. I will also be looking into internships around Miami for production in live music venues.
What kind of impact do you hope to make with the tools given to you through your major and/or the fellowship?
I hope to be able to improve the opportunity for musicians to perform at live music venues, by eventually being able to work at music agency.
What piece of advice would you give Freshmen who are deciding what career path to follow?
Follow your heart and do what you like to do. There is no point in working in a job that makes you miserable, you will actually want to wake up and work if it is something that you enjoy doing.
