Here’s advice from Rachel Rice, Washington’s state collegiate chairperson, for the journey through college: “Yes, you’ll work hard. Yes, there may be times when you think you can’t finish. However, now is the time to embrace the opportunities presented to you and hold yourselves responsible to become the music teacher your future students deserve.”

Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid. Your colleagues understand and don’t want to see you make the same mistakes they did. Take advantage of the music office. Rice says, “Even if the question is ‘I locked myself out of my dorm … what do I do?’ Don’t hesitate; just ask!”

Be Prepared

“Music education is not a major for slackers, sissies, or whiners, so buckle up and get ready for the ride of your life! You’re going to be busy, you’re going to be tired, and you’re going to work harder than you ever thought you could,” says Rice. She also advises bringing your passion and knowing the responsibility you have to your future students.

Get Involved

It’s easy to do the bare minimum and get by, but is that what you plan on giving your future students … the bare minimum? Get involved and make a difference, even if you are a senior—it’s never too late!

Find your school’s collegiate chapter president and learn how you can participate in chapter activities. Volunteer in the schools in your community and attend conferences or workshops.

“The experiences you have and the strong community of supporters you inherit through MENC Collegiate is something that no music theory class or conducting class can give you,” says Rice.

This article is adapted from an article in the Washington State MEA Journal, the Voice of Washington Music Educators (October 2008) entitled, “Another year: another chance to make a difference,” by Rachel Rice.

--Shauna Leavitt, March 17, 2009 © MENC: The National Association for Music Education.