April 2007

I wish I were independently wealthy...

April 7, 2007 22:51

But don't we all?

There's so many music teacher-training programs that'd I've love to participate in over the summer. Only one problem which is money...or lack there of. It gets so frustrating! I'm not living in poverty but I'm not exactly living middle class either. I'm fortunate to live be able to live at home and receive free board and food. However I still have to play for gas, bills, fees, and other miscellaneous things I need for school and teaching. I now also get to figure out a way to pay for the $1,400 bill from the Emergency room.

Generally the price of tuition for these music programs are fair but when you add the cost of room and board, food, and travel expenses it becomes impossible for a college student to afford these type of programs but I'm trying to figure out a way. One program offered a $200 dollar scholarship if I work 10 hours. Now that helps a bit but it's all the way in Ohio and the costs of flying there is almost $400. I'm even considering the taking the bus there, which would be a 2-day trip but only cost almost $300.

I've been trying to google for any sort of grants I could find whether it be for "music educators," "college musicians," "college student," "arts educator," etc. Either I don't qualify for the grants or the deadlines have passed for the few grants I could find. Aside from that I'm terrible at essays.

I want so badly to do these music programs! It won't just help me become a better music educator but a better musician overall. I know I deserve these grants. I work my butt off taking a full course load of about 18-19 units, teach 60+ kids, and go back to the university practically every night to study. The money I make from teaching is not really much. I do it cause I enjoy working with the kids and I want them to become good musicians and enjoy playing.

I need to find a way to make this work.

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Almost there!!!

April 5, 2007 22:18

After talking with an advisor she has told me that I can start applying for graduation this July. So if all goes well I will have a bachelors in music next year!

after that in order to officially teach kids in the public school i will have to:

-apply and enroll in the teacher credential program for one year
-get CPR certified
-pass the CBEST exam
-pass the CSET exam

I still have a way to go but at least i finally feel like i'm moving in the right direction!!!

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More entries: June 2007 • March 2007