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60 seconds with … Lauren Rubin

27 May 2009

Lauren Rubin
 

Name: Lauren Rubin
Course: PhD candidate
Year level: Three
Mode: Off-campus

What is it about your course and the University that helped you to choose Monash?

Monash was the only university in the world that allowed me to pursue a PhD in ethnomusicology by distance. There is no university near where I live in America that offers this course, and definitely not one of Monash's calibre and reputation. I also liked the set up of the PhD at Monash. A research degree was exactly what I was looking for and I could not find it in the US.

What is your favourite subject and why?

Ethnomusicology - it is an exciting, multi-faceted subject with global focus and fantastic music.

What challenges are ahead for you this year?

I am finishing my PhD this year.

What will be your ideal career (and what will it involve) when you graduate?

I would like to write a book about my findings and continue to teach ethnomusicology courses at the university in my area.

What is it about your course that holds your interest or is particularly satisfying?

I play both instruments that are the subject of my PhD -- the Shakuhachi (Japanese end-blown flute) and the Australian Aboriginal didgerido-- so continuing to learn about them while performing and playing daily is very satisfying. My fieldwork last year was a monumental experience for me that I will always treasure. Because of my PhD I was able to meet people and have experiences musically that would not have been open to me otherwise. I have also found the process of researching and developing and writing a thesis extremely satisfying and interesting.

What are some of the best things about being a student at Monash?

The ability to study a subject of great interest to me in depth and my supervisor, Dr Margaret Kartomi -- her expertise and support are vital to making my PhD a great experience.

What is your favourite destination and why?

The Aboriginal family I had the privilege to meet and spend time with near Nhulunbuy, North Arnhem Land was one of the greatest experiences in my life. We continue to keep in contact even though we live so far away from each other. Kyoto, Japan is also one of the most beautiful places I have ever been, again because of the magnificent people I met while I was there.

What is something about yourself that most of your fellow students wouldn’t know?

It is possible to be a student at Monash and live thousands of miles away.

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