Avery Paige Conger
Avery Paige Conger
Class Year
’28
Hometown
Blue Grass, Iowa
Major(s)
Musical Theatre
Before coming to college, Avery Paige Conger ’28 was deeply involved in vocal, dance, and theatre groups. She starred as the lead in a production of “Cinderella,” performed as a ballad soloist in a show choir, and participated in an all-state choir. Drawn to Carthage by its musical theatre program, she knew it was the perfect place to continue her artistic journey. Since arriving at Carthage, Avery has expanded her experience both on stage and behind the scenes, working with percussion and contributing to choirs, band, and orchestra. With the support of scholarships in percussion, musical theatre performance, academics, and external awards, she is steadily advancing toward her dream of performing on major stages in cities like Chicago, Milwaukee, or New York.
Beyond her studies and performances, Avery enjoys exploring the local Kenosha area, which reminds her of home while offering everything she could need nearby. “Grocery stores such as Pick & Save and Walmart are right around the corner. Restaurants like the Waterfront Warehouse or Frank’s Diner are only a few minutes away! I can even step outside and relax by Lake Michigan.”
Why Carthage?
“I received a postcard in the mail with a beautiful picture of Lake Michigan and the school by the shore, which immediately piqued my interest. I ultimately chose ǿմý because it has one of the best musical theatre programs in the United States.”
Faculty mentors
“Professor Molly Fuller, my voice lesson instructor, has made one of the biggest impacts on my choice of school and the career path I want to follow. She is an amazing professor as well as a great person to talk to. She has given me a great deal of advice and outlined numerous ways that I can achieve my goals.”
Favorite class
“Musical Theatre Techniques has been my favorite class at Carthage so far. For the course, we prepare the songs in voice lessons and on our own, then take the stage, sing, and perform the scene to receive feedback from the instructor and the class. It’s basically like one big audition workshop that you keep repeating to make perfect progress.”
Toughest class
“Statistics has been my toughest class because I haven’t taken a math course in a long time. Thankfully, the professor managed things smoothly, and I had a great time, despite my personal challenges.”
Campus involvement
“I am involved in the Carthage Pep Band, Treble Choir, Lincoln Chamber Singers, Percussion Ensemble, Wind Orchestra, and theatre performances.”
Unique opportunities
“I took an exciting J-Term course called the Urban Education and Sociology Education Immersion Experience. We had the opportunity to visit elementary and high school classrooms, working with teachers and students in their own environments and collaborating to create an even better space for learning and growth.”
Internships or campus employment
“I am a resident student ambassador at Carthage, as well as a member of the Carthage Pep Band and Drumline! Having these on-campus jobs makes my life so much easier. Rather than having to rush to a job right after classes end, Carthage faculty and staff work around my schedule, making things flow much better.”
Favorite spot on campus
“I would definitely have to say the A. F. Siebert Chapel. The acoustics alone are really amazing for performers, and I also have a strong foundation rooted in spiritual connection. Everyone in the space has always been so friendly and welcoming every time I enter the doors.”
Favorite memory
“My favorite recurring event at Carthage is the Christmas Festival. All types of performers and music lovers come together for one giant show to create beautiful sounds in the A. F. Siebert Chapel. I love every second!”
Best tip for making friends
“Get involved and stay involved! There are plenty of clubs and organizations on campus. Whatever you are looking for, you will be able to find it here. And if you don’t, you can always create your own club.”