Senior Kyle McCarthy was torn between sitting back and enjoying his commencement, or volunteering for one final performance. Lucky for his fellow graduates and the attendees of the May 5, 2012 ceremony, McCarthy chose the latter.

“I feel honored, especially since it’s the 125th Anniversary,” McCarthy said of being chosen to lead the National Anthem. “Relaxing isn’t the life of a musician, there is always work that can be done or practicing to do. I guess I couldn’t refuse.”

Reflecting back on his time at Aquinas, McCarthy recalls fondly on his freshman year. That year, for McCarthy, saw not only the changes that come along with entering college, but also the forming of some of his greatest friendships. This was also McCarthy’s first season as a member of the lacrosse club, its last year before becoming a varsity sport.

“There was a great sense of camaraderie with the team [my freshman year],” McCarthy said. “That year everyone was there simply because we loved to play, we weren’t attached to scholarships, just the game and the relationships and memories we made as a team.”

After his sophomore season, during which McCarthy earned the Most Improved Player Award, he ended his Aquinas lacrosse career in order to focus better on his future as a musician. This dedication, although keeping him from experiences like the study abroad programs, certainly benefited the AQ music department, of which McCarthy was an active participant. He was also a member of the former AQ Fellas, an a cappella group.

Along with his frequent appearances on the Moose stage, McCarthy may be recognized for his duties at the Regina Hall front desk. An RA his sophomore year, McCarthy switched to the front desk for his final three years, the final two as Manager.

“I think most experiences are positive experiences, they might not be enjoyable, but you walk away with a lot of wisdom and sometimes a sense of accomplishment,” McCarthy said of his time as an RA. “This was one of those experiences.”

McCarthy will graduate cum laude with his Bachelor of Arts in applied music and a focus in voice. Although he has no long-term plans yet, McCarthy hopes to enter graduate school and become certified in education.

“I think what I’ll take away with me is the acceptance and love that Aquinas has given to me and to all of its students, and try to incorporate and model that into my life,” McCarthy said.