Siuzanna Iglidan: An Interview
Siuzanna Iglidan is a former NAC student who has gone on to do amazing things! She began as a Level 1 student in 2014 and since her NAC days has: performed at the Grammy’s with John Legend, released several albums (Siuzanna is a internationally awarded pianist, composer, opera singer and Bandura player), became Mrs. Ukraine 2024 and was the first runner-up in the Mrs. Worldwide pageant in August. She recently returned to NAC and spoke with our current students about what she has been up to. We followed her conversation with the students up with some additional questions. Read on to hear more about Siuzanna!
What were the circumstances that brought you to Denver and why did you choose NAC?
After I graduated from Odessa State Music Academy I was invited to teach music at South Ukrainian Pedagogical University. In addition to teaching I chose to work toward a higher degree than Masters in a performing arts program. I was writing my dissertation and studying pedagogy and psychology to pursue my PhD in education. I always wanted to study English, so becoming a NAC student was a great opportunity to visit the USA and study the language from everyday Americans. I chose NAC because my friends from Colorado highly recommended it.
How did attending NAC help you achieve your professional (and personal) goals?
I believe that education is a powerful tool on the way to success! Being an immigrant is not easy. First you need to learn the language, you need to make friends, set your goals, be patient, work hard and never give up. Studying academic English helped me to improve my confidence and achieve my goals.
You have done a lot of amazing things! Can you tell us about them? Is it possible to choose a favorite?
While studying at NAC I set a goal to live in the USA and become a recognized musician; this is the best I can offer to Americans. So, I saved $400, packed my suitcase, transferred to another college and moved to Los Angeles. I don’t know if I would do it again! It was brave of me to make such a decision without any connections, friends and lack of money. But I had a DREAM!
From a street musician I made an appearance with an American celebrity at Grammys stage in Las Vegas. Performing the American national anthem opened the doors to modeling careers with famous Hollywood fashion shows and designers. I competed as Miss Ukraine in 2016 at Miss International Pageant and now I am competing again for the title of Mrs. Worldwide 2024 in Omaha, NE. I am an American theorist Ukrainian female producer who signed a contract to work with the City of West Hollywood from 2016-2023. I also established a few music competitions in the USA.
What is next for you professionally?
I am working on my new music video release. I also have plans to perform with a few famous musicians. There is also a recording label offer to release a classical music album and of course international concert tours in China and Italy.
Do you have a favorite memory (or two!) of your time at NAC?
Absolutely yes! Fun memories while studying at NAC are learning new language and trying to adjust to American culture and mentality. The first time I tried American coffee I got immediately sick and had to ask permission to go home! I liked making new friends. After school we would go eat dinner and just sit and play fun games together. I wish I can meet those students now and listen to their stories. I’m sure it would be fun to know how our lives have changed since that time.
I am grateful for NAC to open doors for me to fulfill my American Dream!
