I sat down with Christine Neveu-Cathian (graduate, Youth and Young Adults Ministry) to discuss her exciting AUSA talent show win.
What was it like to perform at the talent show?
First of all, I was very impressed by all the talented participants. It was breathtaking and inspiring to sing on a stage like this, in front of a big audience. Despite the inevitable anxiety and stress, I enjoyed the experience and the audience was very receptive. Secondly, it almost felt unreal that I had such a wonderful opportunity like this. I’m very proud of everyone who participated and I’m very glad to have had a chance to sing.
What did it mean to you when you won?
It was a very proud and exciting moment for me. Having the votes to be the winner gave me more confidence in myself as well as the courage to do more. With this being my last year here at Andrews University, this will be a wonderful memory that I will take back with me. It felt like a very momentous evening for me and everyone else who got to perform. Participating in this talent show was a wonderful experience that I will remember forever.
What does the song you performed mean to you?
I decided to sing "I Have Nothing," by Whitney Houston. This song is very special to me because it was my very own father who taught me this song when I was a little girl. It reminds me of him and allows me to truly feel his love. It’s incredibly special and endearing to me because it's been years since I have seen him in person. In addition to this, I chose this song because of its challenging vocals. The deep relationship I share with this powerful song of love brings me a sense of comfort as well as a connection to my father.
Please share a little bit of your personal story with us.
I was born in Mauritius, which is a tropical island country in the Indian Ocean east of Madagascar. It's a beautiful and mountainous touristic island that is known for its beaches and coral reefs. Since I was younger, I have always been passionate about singing and participating in fine arts. Prior to coming to Andrews, I was a high school teacher for some time. Currently, I am in the second year of earning my Master’s as a seminary student studying Youth and Young Adults Ministry alongside my husband, who is also in the seminary.
What is your experience in singing?
I’ve always enjoyed singing since I was a child. Later on in my life, I started singing at my local church as a soloist. While I do enjoy singing, I never had professional classes or lessons for it. I personally never took any singing lessons, but I practiced a lot on my own time as a hobby. I’ve grown to love singing and used this desire to participate when I could, such as in talent shows like these. I’m grateful to have discovered this strong devotion and passion of mine.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.