The immersive Flint Hills Media Project in the Elliott School of Communication gives journalism students at Wichita State like myself a chance to do something unique.

This year, I was able to interview Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback and U.S. Rep. Mike Pompeo; I met the owners of a flower shop that designed the centerpieces for the patron tent at the Symphony in the Flint Hills; I met an independent country music artist playing music in El Dorado. And I got to do so much more.

While I expected to get to do all of these things and more, one thing I was truly looking forward to was getting to experience the symphony in a pasture. I missed out on that last year when I covered the eighth annual symphony last year at Fort Riley.

The military post is part of the Flint Hills, but the hills were not visible from the concert site, which was in the middle of a field at the center of the post.

My view during the symphony last summer was of a concert performance amongst historical buildings.

That was something I never thought I would be able to see. However, I missed out on seeing the beauty of the Flint Hills, because the buildings hid my view.

It was all different this year. The ninth annual symphony was held at Rosalia Ranch in Butler County. Just like every concert before last year’s, the show was held in the middle of a pasture.

The view of the Flint Hills was incredible, mesmerizing and something I won’t soon forget. I saw nothing but green hills as far as my eyes could see.

If you’ve never stopped and appreciated the Flint Hills, make the effort to take the time when you drive through that part of the state. The beauty of the hills does not disappoint.

And if you’ve never been to the Symphony in the Flint Hills, consider attending the 10th anniversary event next year. Not only do you get to see the beauty of the Flint Hills, you also get to listen to a phenomenal music group.

Whoever said Kansas is flat and boring clearly never saw the beauty of the Flint Hills. If they had, I’m sure they would sing a different tune. I know I do, now that I’ve experienced seeing the Flint Hills up close.