Bianca Doman

Audio Design and Production (BA) '21

What would you say was the most surprising thing you learned at Columbia?

It was fascinating to learn about the complexity that can go into audio signal flow setup for various event types. I've come to realize the important role sound has within media and our everyday lives, and I'm grateful to now be a part of a community of audio engineers. Through my minor in Marketing, I've come to understand its value in the growth and survival of a business. I aim to utilize the concepts and techniques I've learned in marketing throughout my future career endeavors.

What experiences or courses at Columbia do you feel have been most beneficial?

Working in the Theatre Department on previous shows as an assistant or lead sound designer. It provided me with insight on the workflow management that is needed in such positions. I was able to use my creativity and the skills I learned in my classes, which was fun. [Additionally,] being an actor in the mainstage space taught me to navigate out of my comfort zone and try new things. Attending workshops/panels that either the Career Center put on (such as Don't Worry, I Was in Your Shoes Last Year) and through my time as Marketing Director in the Audio Engineering Society were also beneficial. Such events provided me with both educational and informative tips that will assist me in my journey through the audio industry after graduation. A few courses that I've found instrumental in my time at Columbia include Audio Visual for Media I, Multitrack Music Recording II, Networks & Networking for Media, and Brands and Branding. 

A few courses that were beneficial for me include Audio Visual for Media I, Multitrack Music Recording II, and Networks & Networking for Media. 

What are your plans for after graduation?

I will be working as an Audio Technician at Waveguide LLC and hope to obtain an internship at a production facility doing sound design/audio editing work.

Do you have any advice for current students?

We're all learning and growing every day, so don't worry if you don't know as much as the next person [because] you'll eventually get there. Also, internships are a great way to learn new skills or continue to perfect the skills you already have. Such positions may turn into employment later, so it's good to network with people in internships or job positions you get. 

If you were going to sum up your experience at Columbia in one sentence, what would you say?

It's been an interesting journey, with some challenges along the way, but I'm glad I've made it to the finish line and look forward to what lies ahead for me.