<p>erica, I think you have answered your own question above. The teacher matters far more than the school. As a matter of fact you could go to one of the big name school and end up with a teacher you don’t jibe with and still come out of college not being able to sing competitively. As a working singer where you went to school matters not at all. All that matters is can you deliver the goods. Summer programs, competitions and YAPS are very key to getting your career started, from making the connections to getting your name out there and for the experience.</p>