Tyler Schuur is a current freshman and member of the 150th class. He is from Le Mars, Iowa, majoring in theatre production and design. Neither of his parents went to the University of Northern Iowa, but he had reasons for choosing UNI. “UNI just seemed like a great starting point for me and my career. It gave me many opportunities when it came to activities, clubs and work,” Schuur said. “Many of my friends were also going here and I knew a few faces around campus already, so I figured it was the best choice for me and my personal interests.”

Along with his involvement in TheatreUNI, Schuur has also been granted a spot in the Panther Marching Band, where he plays the bass line. “Marching band’s been really fun so far. It’s a lot of work, definitely, but it’s super worth it.”

In the past, he has played tenor line for his high school marching band, but after sending in his audition to PMB, he was given a completely different section. “I’m not new to drumming in the slightest, but I was a bit surprised by this outcome,” he said. “Learning more about bassline has been extremely rewarding for my marching band experience.”

Schuur became extremely excited when discussing what he enjoys about PMB, “I’ve made so many new friends in marching band, and the drumline director is incredible,” he said. “It’s been such an enlightening experience for me.”

Schuur also had very positive remarks about UNI as a whole. “Recently, I changed my major and switched out all of my classes, and all of the professors have been great so far. The food and people have been wonderful in my time here as well,” he said. “The main thing for my first few weeks was marching band camp, and that was a time that really helped me get used to everything on campus.”

Editor's Note: This story was originally published in the Sept. 10, 2025 issue of The Northern Iowan.