As a high school student in Fort Collins, Colo., Elsbeth Williams looked far and wide for a university that could meet her demands. A talented musician and a victim of wanderlust, she wanted a respected music school where she could continue her studies in clarinet. Just as important, she wanted a rigorous program in international studies.

She found that rare combination just 60 miles from Fort Collins at the University of Denver, home to the Lamont School of Music and the Graduate School of International Studies. During her five years at DU, Williams pursued a double major in music and international studies, as well as a GSIS master�s degree in international administration.

Along the way, she completed a senior recital and an internship at the Denver Mayor�s Office for Children and Education, which introduced her to the ins and outs of government agencies. In addition, she traveled to Provence, France, as a Cherrington Global Scholar, a program that sends eligible DU students abroad for a quarter of study. She also studied music for a summer in Vienna and participated in a service-learning course that took her to Dharamsala, India. There, she taught English to Tibetan monks and learned about Indian music.

With friends in South Korea and family in England and Nicaragua, Williams has always appreciated other places and cultures. �Growing up, I had contact with people from all over the world,� she says. �I just grew up with a global perspective from my family and my community.�

That perspective was enhanced at DU, where her experiences and courses prepared Williams for her dream job with an international arts organization and for continued studies in classical music. Ultimately, Williams hopes to join an orchestra or chamber group.

Williams� marriage of two demanding majors was made easier by professors who were eager to help her mix and cultivate her passions. "The faculty here is so excited to work with you on whatever pursuit you want to follow," she says.