Emily Armbrecht

Residential Advisor Summer Cohort

Emily Armbrecht serves as a Residential Advisor for the Focus Collegiate Summer Cohort, where she brings seven years of experience working closely with students as a music educator and choir director. Passionate about mentorship, student engagement, and cultivating belonging, Emily is dedicated to creating welcoming environments where students feel connected, supported, and empowered.

Emily holds a B.A. in Music Education and has led both middle and high school choir programs, directed student ensembles and musical productions, and developed student-centered learning communities focused on collaboration, confidence, accountability, and personal growth. Throughout her career, she has organized student events, retreats, and extracurricular programming while mentoring students in both academic and co-curricular settings.

Her work as an educator centers not only on academic success, but on supporting the whole student. Emily believes that meaningful education is built on strong relationships and intentional support that helps students thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

“In my experience as an educator, my job is not always just about the subject, it’s about helping students succeed. As a music teacher, I often help students with things like math or their planner. I believe in supporting the whole student. I take time to get to know students as people. A career in education is about the people, not just the subject matter.”

In addition to teaching and program leadership, Emily has successfully increased student participation and retention in multiple music programs through inclusive, student-centered instruction and high-trust community-building. Her experience managing large groups while maintaining structure, accountability, and encouragement makes her a valuable member of the Focus Collegiate Summer Cohort residential team.