Getting to Know Nick Bertram
Nick Bertram might seem like any other East Carolina University student. He has a part time job and attends classes as a production student full time, but what you might not know is that he is a rocker through and through. For Nick, drumming and jamming is his passion, so much so, that he teaches percussion to youngsters at a local music shop.
“It’s the most rewarding job I’ve ever had” says Nick.
Only a year ago, though, Nick was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, a disease that attacks the gastrointestinal system and causes inflammation. This was the same disease that he helped his younger brother fight when he was only nine. If anything this gives an insight into the strength of character that Nick possesses.
“One thing Nick would not bring up right away is the fact that he’s strong in the face of obstacles.” Rebecca Pinkham, girlfriend of two years, says,
“He somehow managed to get through the semester while keeping his grades high and working. This is something [Crohn’s disease] Nick will always have to deal with, but he has reconciled it with himself now.”
Nick is originally a Philadelphia native who moved to New Bern, NC when he was only 11. Growing up, the rambunctious Nick would often get into fights, but it’s OK when you’ve got three close brothers to rely on. In high school he was voted “wittiest” and he kept a steady job at the local Outback Steakhouse. He wasn’t much into sports but aside from that Nick was like any other kid, that is, until he started a band.
After a short period of time with his band Nick became involved at the local radio station 96.3fm. From there he made the connections he would need to open concerts for Rock ‘n’ Roll legends including Blackfoot and the Marshal Tucker Band.
Nick graduated high school in 2003 and shortly thereafter he started going to Craven County Community College. Studying so close to home allowed Nick to maintain his efforts with the band and become a more skilled drummer.
By 2005 Nick had found his way to Greenville where he enrolled at ECU. He spent some time as a music major prior to Pirate life but couldn’t find a career path that suited him; so without hesitation Nick picked the career that would suit him best, video production.
He is currently in the “Direction” class, which will be his final production class, and he is set to graduate in May with an Associates Degree in fine arts. From there he plans to find work with his cousin who does lighting for motion pictures.
Although Nick has decided to maintain his passion for music as a hobby it’s easy to see that he still keeps the beat going. His new found knowledge of production is helping him understand the ins and outs of recording music and he regularly jams with friends. When asked, “What is Nick’s most appealing quality?” this is what longtime friend, James Brosan says,
“He always seems to be in a good mood and doesn’t worry too much about things, even though he always gets things done. I guess he just doesn’t let stuff stress him out.”
Nick is currently working on songs of his own and hopes to some day make an impression on the ever-changing music industry.
It’s not often that people get to do this at such a young age, and these opportunities are a testament to Nick’s talents and ambition and drive. When asked what Nick’s thoughts on the meaning of life might be, long time girlfriend Rebecca simply states,
“After consideration, I think he would say life is a time between an uncertain past and an uncertain future where all you can do is be yourself and strive to be happy while also caring for others.”
An eloquent sentiment that we can all relate to while trying to pursue, like Nick Bertram, the things we love.
Filed under: Classmate Profiles, Spring 2008