Following the Gong, a Podcast of the Schreyer Honors College at Penn State
Schreyer Honors College
78 episodes
1 month ago
Are you a Schreyer Scholar looking to connect with Scholar Alumni for career and life advice? Or perhaps you are a recent graduate looking to take the next step in your career, or are a prospective Scholar looking to learn more about the College. When our Scholars submit their honors thesis, they ring a ceremonial gong to mark the completion of their honors experience. #FollowingTheGong is a show that features conversations with Scholar Alumni and friends with stories and advice on how to maximize your Scholar experience, prepare for your career and further education, and make new connections with a strong network of Scholar Alumni that blazed the trail before you. Episodes are released bi-weekly on Tuesdays when Penn State classes are in session and are available on major platforms.
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Are you a Schreyer Scholar looking to connect with Scholar Alumni for career and life advice? Or perhaps you are a recent graduate looking to take the next step in your career, or are a prospective Scholar looking to learn more about the College. When our Scholars submit their honors thesis, they ring a ceremonial gong to mark the completion of their honors experience. #FollowingTheGong is a show that features conversations with Scholar Alumni and friends with stories and advice on how to maximize your Scholar experience, prepare for your career and further education, and make new connections with a strong network of Scholar Alumni that blazed the trail before you. Episodes are released bi-weekly on Tuesdays when Penn State classes are in session and are available on major platforms.
FTG 0058 – Rocking the Stage and Studio with My Hero Zero Frontman, Musician, Singer/Songwriter, and Producer Jason Olcese ’06
Following the Gong, a Podcast of the Schreyer Honors College at Penn State
1 hour 27 minutes 19 seconds
1 year ago
FTG 0058 – Rocking the Stage and Studio with My Hero Zero Frontman, Musician, Singer/Songwriter, and Producer Jason Olcese ’06
Overview:
Jason Olcese ’06 Lib is the band leader of My Hero Zero in State College, PA, where he performs as a musician, writes and records in the studio, and manages equipment and practice space to keep everything running smoothly. Before joining the band in 2010, Jason performed as a solo musician under the artist name "Jason O". He earned his BS in Psychology with Honors in Music from Penn State’s College of the Liberal Arts in 2006. Jason joined the show – with a live studio audience in the Grandfather Clock Lounge – to share his story. Jason is a lifelong musician and learner, providing insights on crafting your skills in college, including through a gap semester and studying abroad. He also shares his perspectives on being a solo entertainer, band member, songwriter, producer, and coach through his other project, Happy Valley Song Lab. The episode includes two live performances, including one song from this thesis project. Any current Scholar or Scholar Alum can get something out of this episode, and especially if they are not sure of what path take or major to choose, are interested in a career in entertainment, writing their own music, or simply hearing about playing at THON or which is Jason’s favorite Taylor Swift era. Jason’s links and a more detailed breakdown of the topics discussed are available below.
Guest Bio:
Jason Olcese ’06 Lib is the band leader of My Hero Zero in State College, Pennsylvania where he performs as a musician, writes and records in the studio, and manages equipment and practice space to keep everything running smoothly. Before joining the band in 2010, Jason performed as a solo musician under the artist name "Jason O". He earned a BS in Psychology with Honors in Music from Penn State in 2006. Please feel free to connect with them via Instagram @myherozerolive or through the bands website: www.myherozero.com. If interested in connecting in a studio setting please reach out to them via www.happyvalleysonglab.com
Episode Topics:
Playing music from a young age and choosing Penn State for the large student body size but the small school feel and opportunities of the Honors College
Trying out several majors – and even taking time off – before settling on the right one
Choosing psychology over music to fulfil a goal of being a musician and songwriter
Leveraging courses like American History and Math 140/141 to influence songwriting and music
Finding unique ways to practice and hone your skills as a musician
Producing a research informed album as part of the honors thesis
Musical interlude #1
Starting full time work during your last year of college and breaking into the music industry
Life on the road as a touring musical act
Learning the business side of being a band
Approaching different audiences like a downtown State College bar or THON
Realities and myths of being a touring band member, including the high points and sacrifices to achieve artistic and commercial success
The importance of balance and knowing your why/having a purpose
Balancing a dual career between being in a band and being a solo performer
Diversifying through producing and coaching at the Happy Valley Song Lab
Seeking out sponsorships in an NIL world
Time and self-management for non 8-5 j...
Following the Gong, a Podcast of the Schreyer Honors College at Penn State
Are you a Schreyer Scholar looking to connect with Scholar Alumni for career and life advice? Or perhaps you are a recent graduate looking to take the next step in your career, or are a prospective Scholar looking to learn more about the College. When our Scholars submit their honors thesis, they ring a ceremonial gong to mark the completion of their honors experience. #FollowingTheGong is a show that features conversations with Scholar Alumni and friends with stories and advice on how to maximize your Scholar experience, prepare for your career and further education, and make new connections with a strong network of Scholar Alumni that blazed the trail before you. Episodes are released bi-weekly on Tuesdays when Penn State classes are in session and are available on major platforms.
