Fourth-year music and culture major Deonna Pope had a rough start to her undergraduate experience, coming onto campus during the initial phases of the COVID-19 pandemic. Pope not only had to adjust to college but learn to cope with the initial isolation caused by the pandemic. However, her passion carried her through, and as the campus began to move out of quarantine, she was able to find her place. It was through her major that she truly began to shine as a UC Riverside student.

“At first, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do in college, I just knew I needed to have music in my academic life somehow,” Pope said. “I talked to my counselor at the end of my sophomore year, and she said that this major was available and it seemed different to me because I did not know there was a discipline that combined music and culture anywhere. UCR has a strong faculty who specialize in these studies and the intro classes I took for this major really hooked me in and attracted my curiosity. This major was really about the conversations I would have with fellow musicians and opened my eyes to the world of ethnomusicology and what I can contribute to this field in the future. I felt seen as a Black woman in this discipline and very passionate about learning everything I can about it.”

This dedication garnered the attention of Jennifer Garrison, an undergraduate academic advisor.

“[Pope] truly embodies what it means to be exceptional,” Garrison said, “Not only is she a standout student in the music program, but she also pours her heart into everything she does. Her dedication and leadership shine through in her role with the CHASS Events team and as a representative of the Music Department. She is always ready to step up, whether it’s speaking at the MUS welcome event for first-year students or participating in student panels. Deonna is a gifted violinist, and her passion for music is evident in every performance. She balances all of this while teaching at an elementary school just across campus. Her ability to inspire and connect with young minds, all while managing her demanding schedule, is a true testament to her incredible character. Deonna is the kind of person who doesn’t just excel — she uplifts everyone around her. She’s an inspiring, hardworking individual who continuously strives to grow both personally and professionally, and I have no doubt she will continue to do amazing things.”

As a violinist, Pope has been performing with the Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA) — the nation’s largest primarily Black orchestra — since 2016.

“Being able to perform Black music and showcase our heritage in various prestigious places is such an honor and privilege,” Pope said. “My conductor, Charles Dickerson III, has steered me in the direction of pursuing higher education, so ever since I was a part of the orchestra, I have had college on my mind. My experiences with ICYOLA have given me the right discipline and routine to be a structured individual.”

In addition to her ICYOLA family, Pope has many people to thank for her success. Among them are her parents, who helped her tour the campus and apply; a friend of a friend who attended UC Riverside and helped her gain her footing; and even her teaching assistants, who helped her with her coursework. Not to forget the faculty and staff of the music department, CHASS, the R-Pantry, and the Basic Needs Center.

“I can’t thank them enough for all the support they have given me. They help me convey the message of my stories and always push me harder to be successful,” Pope said. “CHASS has given me exposure to opportunities to network and know what is going on, on campus, so it helps me get the resources I need. The R-Pantry and the Basic Needs Center are places I go to when I need food or any help with my basic needs.”

Much like her undergraduate experiences, Pope plans a varied post-grad career. She hopes to continue performing in various music ensembles, start her own music group, and teach private lessons while earning her master's and Ph.D. to become an ethnomusicologist. Pope was recently accepted into the graduate program for ethnomusicology at UC Riverside.

FEATURED PHOTO. Deonna Pope lounges on the University of California, Riverside sign on West Campus Drive, arms in the air.