Balancing two majors is tough for most college students, but for Campbellsville University junior Claire Dayton, it’s become a way of life. Dayton is double majoring in music and Christian missions, two programs that demand long hours, hands-on work and more than a few late nights in the practice rooms. Between rehearsals, religion courses and the pressure to excel in both fields, she’s learned to juggle a schedule that most students would shy away from. But for Dayton, it isn’t about checking boxes, it’s about calling, purpose and the passion that keeps her moving even on the hardest days.
Dayton didn’t originally plan to double major at CU. She came wanting to study Christian missions because she loved learning about the Bible.
“I know I want to travel for the rest of my life, and I’d love to do that through missions,” said Dayton.
Dayton originally planned for music to solely be her minor, until her audition day when the School of Music offered her a scholarship and assured her the double major was possible.
“They told me it was doable, so that’s why I’m a double and not a minor,” said Dayton.
Her passion for music goes back to middle school, but the moment she realized she wanted to pursue it seriously came during her junior year of high school. She said she enjoyed participating in honor bands and auditions but felt like she wasn’t learning as much as she wanted.
“I came to the realization that music was really the only thing I enjoyed. I did well in my other classes, but I really didn’t enjoy anything except for music,” said Dayton. “There’s nothing else I would imagine doing with my life.”
Her interest in missions came to her in a very similar way. While Dayton was always strong in her faith, she was always eager to learn more. A mission trip to Honduras after her senior year of high school confirmed what she already suspected.
“Coming back from that trip, I knew missions was what I wanted to do,” said Dayton. “When I saw Christian missions on Campbellsville’s website, it felt perfect. I could study the Bible, other cultures and different religions, and then pair that with music.”
This semester, however, Dayton is feeling primarily like a single major. Because many music classes at Campbellsville University only offer a single section, Dayton had to shift most of her focus toward music and move several of her missions’ requirements online or into shortened terms.
“It’s just a lot of music all at once,” said Dayton. “Some days it feels like I’m only a music major because that’s where all my time has to go.”
Dayton’s commitment is clear to the faculty who work with her, especially her instructor, Dr. Denis Santos. Santos, her clarinet professor and woodwind specialist, said Dayton brings a rare mix of talent and positivity into the music department.
“Claire is such an example of talent, discipline, dedication and joy,” said Santos. “She’s one of those students who changes the environment she’s in.”
As her adviser, Santos has watched her manage the workload of both majors. He said they structured her schedule so the first two years focus heavily on music, giving her more room for Christian Missions courses later.
“She spends a lot of time in music just because of the nature of the degree,” said Santos. “But she’s keeping up with the Christian ministry degree very well.”
Even with that plan, balancing both majors isn’t easy.
“It is demanding, and it can be overwhelming,” said Santos. “But if there is anybody who can do it, and who has the discipline and the drive, that would be Claire.”
Santos also believes Dayton’s faith and missions background directly strengthen her musicianship.
“She sees music not only as an art, but as a path toward her mission of gaining souls for Christ,” said Santos. “Underneath her joy of music, I think that’s what motivates her.”
After watching her grow musically and spiritually throughout her time at CU, Santos said he couldn’t imagine the program without her.
“I wish I could have 10 other Claires,” said Santos.
Santos isn’t the only one who notices Dayton’s workload. The students who share rehearsals and ensembles with her see the same. Ashley Tungate, who shares a section with her in countless ensembles, said it’s rare to walk through the music building without running into Dayton.
“I see Claire in a practice room or a rehearsal at all times,” said Tungate. “The only time she’s not there is when she’s eating.”
Tungate said that preparation is what helps Dayton manage long rehearsal weeks.
“She hides her stress well and I think it’s because of how prepared she is,” said Tungate.
She also sees Dayton juggle her two majors on a regular basis. After rehearsals, it’s common to see her heading straight across campus to lead worship or help with ministry commitments.
“She balances the two regularly,” said Tungate. “She’ll be in the middle of a wind ensemble rehearsal and then say, ‘Okay, now I have to run over to the chapel for something with The Vine or worship ensemble.’”
Tungate said faith is a big part of what helps Dayton keep everything balanced. To her, music and missions aren’t separate. They come from the same place.
“I think it’s hard to separate her from her faith and her musicianship,” said Tungate. “They’re equally intertwined.”
And beyond the workload of two majors, Tungate said Dayton brings a supportive, encouraging presence to the section. She’s often the first to check on someone after a tough rehearsal or ask a classmate if they need help with music.
“She embodies all of it. A strong musician, a dedicated student, and someone who genuinely cares,” she said.
Despite the heavy workload, Dayton doesn’t plan to slow down. She hopes to work in a church or nonprofit after graduation, while continuing to play regularly and grow as a musician. For her, both majors lean toward the same purpose.
“I want music to stay a constant in my life, but missions is my focus,” said Dayton. “It’s a lot, but it’s worth it. I love what I’m studying.”
