MISSOURI
Katie Kalinowski ’09
Petty Officer Second Class, U.S. Navy

When she graduated from UMKC, Katie Kalinowski (B.M. ’09) knew she wanted to make a living playing clarinet. What she didn’t realize was that she could do it in the U.S. Navy.

Kalinowski is now a petty officer second class, a position she says has changed her immensely.

“I’ve grown as a person and as a woman,” Kalinowski says. “I think I’m more confident and stronger than before I joined. I’ve been mentored by some amazing women since joining, and I hope I can pay that forward to others.”

Kalinowski has had some unique opportunities since joining the Navy. As part of the Pacific Partnership humanitarian mission, she traveled to Fiji, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines and Vietnam, training local medical personnel to respond to disasters.

“We performed at hospitals, clinics, schools, public concerts and onboard the ship. It’s hard to pick a favorite experience, but I always loved performing for schools. Seeing the kids smile and enjoy the music was wonderful.”

Though being away from family and friends is tough, Kalinowski says she enjoys her time on Navy ships.

“It was certainly different from anything I’d ever experienced! I loved being out at sea and watching the clouds, the water and the sunsets.”

Since joining the Navy in 2010, Kalinowski has played in three different bands: the U.S. Fleet Forces Band in Norflok, Va., the Pacific Fleet Band in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and Navy Band Great Lakes in Great Lakes, Ill. She says her home, however, will always be Missouri.

“I grew up in St. Charles, so I’ll always love that area,” she says. “Eating a fresh Jonathan apple grown in Missouri is something I haven’t been able to do in Virginia or Hawaii!”