Parent to parent: Gettysburg is where belonging becomes believing

Like many parents, we wanted our children to find a college where they would receive an excellent education, develop meaningful friendships, and grow into confident, capable adults. At Gettysburg College, we discovered a community that provided all of that and so much more.

Neither of us had ever heard of Gettysburg College until a guidance counselor suggested it to our son Michael ’25 after he made it clear he wanted to pursue music education as a major. From the first interaction with Gettysburg, we felt a level of comfort and connection to the school, so much so that our daughter, Mary ’28, followed in his footsteps to the Sunderman Conservatory of Music.

Our family has been fortunate to experience Gettysburg through the journeys of our two children. Michael and Mary both chose to pursue music education. While each has followed their own path, their experiences share a common theme: Gettysburg College has challenged, supported, and inspired them in ways that have helped them thrive both personally and professionally.

From the moment they arrived on campus, Gettysburg became a home away from home. Through the Sunderman Conservatory and Gettysburg’s many performing ensembles, both Michael and Mary found opportunities not only to develop as musicians but also to become leaders. They performed in the Bullets Marching Band and numerous other ensembles, where they learned the value of teamwork, discipline, and dedication.

We have been impressed by how quickly Gettysburg empowers students to take ownership of their experiences. Both Michael and Mary embraced leadership opportunities within the various music organizations. They learned how to mentor younger students, lead by example, and contribute to a culture that welcomes and supports others. Watching them grow from participants into leaders has been one of the most rewarding parts of their college experience.

Gettysburg’s impact, however, extends well beyond the classroom and rehearsal hall. The friendships they have developed have become one of the defining aspects of their college years. Through late-night study sessions, performances, campus traditions, and everyday moments together, they have created relationships that we are confident will last a lifetime. As parents, we find tremendous comfort in knowing that our children have found a community of friends who support one another, celebrate successes together, and help each other through challenges.

“One of the greatest gifts Gettysburg has given our family is the confidence that our children are prepared for whatever comes next.” - Christine and Dan Tropp P’25, P’28  

 

Equally important has been the incredible support provided by Gettysburg’s faculty and staff. Throughout their time on campus, Michael and Mary have been surrounded by professors, community members, advisors, and mentors who genuinely care about their success. These relationships have gone far beyond academics. Faculty members have invested time in helping them grow as musicians, future educators, and young adults. Their encouragement, guidance, and belief in our children have made a lasting difference.

As music education majors, Michael and Mary have combined their passion for music with a desire to make an impact on future generations of students. Through their coursework, teaching experiences, and leadership opportunities, they have gained confidence in their ability to educate, inspire, and lead. We have watched them develop not only technical expertise and teaching skills but also empathy, resilience, and a deeper understanding of the role they can play in the lives of others.

One of the greatest gifts Gettysburg has given our family is the confidence that our children are prepared for whatever comes next. They have learned how to collaborate with people from different backgrounds, solve problems, embrace challenges, and lead with integrity. Those lessons will stay with them long after graduation.

As we reflect on Michael’s journey as a Gettysburg graduate and Mary’s continued experience on campus, we are grateful. Gettysburg College has provided them with opportunities, friendships, mentorship, and experiences that have shaped who they are becoming. Most importantly, it has given them a place to grow, discover their strengths, and pursue their passions.

Christine and Dan Tropp P’25, P’28 of Bernardsville, New Jersey, are the parents of Michael ’25 and Mary ’28 Tropp.