Alyssa Rumbaoa, senior nursing major, loved being involved with music and worship on Walla Walla University’s main campus. Now studying at the nursing campus in Portland, she has continued using her talents at a variety of church services and events. She has helped with music at Crosswalk Church and at a Seventh-day Adventist conference event, Dinner with Dan. Here she shares some of her experiences as a student music leader:
Summer Boulais: Can you tell me about Dinner with Dan and your role in it?
Alyssa Rumbaoa: Dinner with Dan is a discussion group for young adults of Oregon Conference. I was involved in music with two other nursing students for the worship night. It's a great way to have WWU nursing students get involved in something bigger by establishing connection to a church.
Boulais: How are you involved with Crosswalk and why did you decide to become involved?
Rumbaoa: There is a worship portion during the two services and I usually help with background vocals. Crosswalk has a sense of familiarity because the opening Sabbath was around the same time I started nursing in Portland in fall 2021. I enjoy the style and come as you are aspect because it reminds me of WWU student life like Circle Church. I wanted to try something new but still familiar.
Boulais: What other spiritual events have you been a part of?
Rumbaoa: Crosswalk was generous enough to help me plan a recent fundraiser and vespers for an orphanage in Thailand. I went on a mission trip there this past summer. The orphanage, or school, is full of refugees, so they heavily rely on donations.
Boulais: What has been the most meaningful aspect of being a student music leader?
Rumbaoa: It's really rewarding to be a part of a team, especially planning the Thailand vespers. I enjoyed the progress and seeing it all coming together. It is surreal performing with the congregation. My favorite thing about being a music leader is seeing my vision and creativity come to life.
