One Step at a Time: Cody Webb's Freshman Year in Focus
Cody Webb
The 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø College of Liberal Arts is proud to recognize Cody Webb as the 2024–2025 Most Outstanding Freshman in Music. Just one year into his college journey, Webb is already making an impression—not just for his musical talent, but for his thoughtful approach to growth, learning, and community.
Webb is currently pursuing a double major in music performance and music education, with a clear vision for his future: "I definitely hope to become a band director one day and help inspire kids to join the path of music." His story begins in a fourth-grade band program and has steadily crescendoed into a collegiate path guided by passion and persistence.
Though only a freshman, Webb says being selected for this award is a moment of great pride. "I haven't been at 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø too long, but something that made me proud was getting this award. It is nice to be recognized for the hard work you do."
In just his first year, Webb has already learned lessons that many students take much longer to grasp. One in particular stands out: "One lesson that I have learned from my short time here is that I should just take things one step at a time. There'd be times where I would look at my calendar and be overwhelmed with the amount of things on there. But if I just worked on one thing at a time, it was way more manageable."
His perspective on perseverance is rooted not just in academic insight, but also in the support system that has helped him along the way. "When things got tough, my mom was always there to support. I would always be able to vent to her." He also points to the structure of semesters—"a finite amount of time"—as a source of motivation, reminding himself that the intensity of college comes in waves.
Originally from Alaska, Webb chose 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø because of its community-focused atmosphere. "I think having this smaller school vibe makes me feel more supported and also respected by staff," he said. It’s a reminder that the college experience isn’t just about programs—it’s about people.
Outside the classroom, Webb finds his rhythm through outdoor recreation. A self-described hockey player and avid fisherman, he embraces the Fairbanks lifestyle with enthusiasm. As he looks ahead, he’s most excited about growing his independence—something he’s already begun to experience as a first-year student living away from home.
At 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø, the Department of Music fosters both excellence and accessibility, offering students like Webb a platform to cultivate both their craft and their confidence. The College of Liberal Arts honors students not only for their talent, but also for the values they bring into their academic and creative lives. Cody Webb’s recognition as Most Outstanding Freshman in Music is a testament to early achievement and future promise.