Nicholas Svoboda Hits the Right Notes as His Career Soars

Audio Arts and Acoustics major Nicholas Svoboda knew Columbia College Chicago was going to give him the opportunity to further develop his creative endeavors, but it’s safe to say that Columbia and the surrounding community has opened a wide array of options as a performer and aspiring audio professional.

Originally from Corvallis, Oregon with an undergraduate degree from Oregon State University, Nicholas came to Columbia looking to pivot to a new direction. As he relates, Columbia checked many of those boxes. “The featured level of technology, hands-on experience, and practical orientation of the program really attracted me, but having been in the program, I would now also add the ability to get an internship and the multitude of connections the college has.”

Coming in as a transfer student, Nicholas was uncertain how that would affect his learning process from students who had already been in the program for a number of years. His uncertainty was quelled immediately. “I remember feeling that it would be more of a training than a degree, but I can gladly say I am treated and taught to the same level as a four-year student, and that my education is preparing me to the highest caliber!”

This semester, Nicholas is an intern at Bricktop Recording Studio, which has given him the opportunity to observe and aid a musical style he has deep roots in. “I'm a big fan of hardcore and metal and that's what they do! They have a constant flow of bands and are truly working professionals. They do it all - tracking, mixing, mastering - and they're, in my opinion, some of the best. Metal and hardcore specifically need special treatment and processing akin to modern hip hop or jazz where there's a culture and desired qualities to achieve. I've learned so much - from techniques like ORTF overheads and understanding the centerline of the drum kit to more nuanced aspects like project management, making sure all aspects of a song are covered, that the artists are achieving their vision.”

With three internships under his belt, Nicholas has easily assimilated himself into the audio and music community. "I really appreciate the communities that are available at Columbia, from events students are creating themselves or events by the college or connected to the college, there will always be a way to pursue your career and get involved. I'm currently in a band, Carnivore Mommy, which is a gigging hardcore act coming up in the Chicago Punk scene. Thanks to the program at Columbia, and much thanks to Tom Joyce, we were able to perform at Sessions @ 33 (another great opportunity)!”

As for advice, Nicholas shared the following. “For incoming students, it's easy to get stuck in a routine but there are so many opportunities that could really set you bounds forward in what you want to do. But also make sure to take care of your body and emotions too!”