Here’s the latest in our monthly student spotlight series, Who-who-who Hoosiers! Read along as we shine a light on the people who make IU Bloomington a vibrant place to learn and grow.
Meet Rowen Poddar, a first-year student from Dallas, double majoring in finance and accounting with a minor in data science. As soon as you enter his orbit, you realize he’s something of a go-getter.
Not only is he a direct admit to one of the world’s most rigorous schools, the Kelley School of Business, but he’s also a third chair violinist for the Jacobs School of Music University Orchestra, where he’s performed in Le Nozze di Figaro and The Nutcracker.
Oh, and he’s a community leader for his floor in the Honors Thematic Community. Did we mention he’s a freshman?
Read more about Rowen, in his own words.
Why IU?
Rowen: I originally considered UT Austin—if you’re from Texas and want to study business, that’s usually the goal. But I ultimately chose IU because it has both an incredible business school and a world-class music school. Music is central to my identity, and IU offers the best of both worlds.
I’ve loved every moment of playing in the orchestra here. I’ve performed some of the best repertoire of my life. I’d make this decision 10 times over.
Why did you choose to live in the Honors Thematic Community?
What do you do as a leader in the Honors Thematic Community?
During finals we hosted “Prep for Finals,” where we handed out self-care kits, energy drinks, pencils, and other essentials. Our job is to help the floor feel connected and supported.
What is the time commitment for the orchestra?
Rowen: It’s a huge time commitment, especially as a nonmajor. We rehearse Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 4:30–6:45 p.m. During big productions like The Nutcracker or The Marriage of Figaro, we have dress rehearsals almost every day, sometimes 7–10 p.m.
As orchestra manager, I also help set up before rehearsals, track attendance, and communicate between the director and guest conductors. It’s amazing exposure to the field and could help me one day land a dream role—like working with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.
What’s the best thing about IU so far?
Rowen: The breadth of opportunity. I recently saw an opportunity to help international students with their taxes—no experience required. I never imagined I’d get hands-on tax accounting experience as a freshman.
My orchestra director has also helped me connect with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Aspen Music Festival, and even Carnegie Hall about potential summer roles.
Getting involved has also helped me find clubs I’m passionate about—like the acapella group I auditioned for. I made it to the last round but didn’t get in, which is OK. You don’t know unless you try. At Kelley, you might apply to tons of clubs and get rejected from some, but there’s always something out there for you.
It feels surreal. If you seek opportunities here, you’ll find them.
What’s your dream job or dream life?
Fun facts about Rowen
- He loves classical music but listens to pretty much every genre—pop, R&B, jazz, and hip-hop. His favorite artists right now are Daniel Caesar, Bruno Mars, and Nat King Cole.
- His go-to karaoke song is “My Way” by Frank Sinatra.
- When it comes to sports, he loves both basketball and football. Since he was born in Cincinnati, he’s a Bengals fan. As for basketball, he’s a Golden State Warriors fan. “Yes, I know it sounds like band-wagoning, but I’ve always loved Steph Curry!”
- When not studying or playing music, Rowen loves playing basketball on the weekends, calling friends back home in Dallas, and playing video games with people on his floor.
