Does a gap year between undergrad and grad studies affect admissions?

compmom
Fri, 17 Apr 2020 13:35:19 +0000

I cannot imagine why your undergrad teachers would discourage summer programs and festivals. Can you explain?

For grad school, do you know what you want to focus on? You mention teaching middle and high schoolers in public school, which would mean getting a master’s in music ed, right?

If you want to go for performance, we don’t know your level. I agree with @songbirdmama that if you actually WANT to go to a master’s program right after undergrad, go for it. No harm except some effort and money spent.

But if you want to take a year to develop, then do that.

The gap year would require commitment by a teacher excellent enough to help you progress, and as @songbirdmama said, that will also take discipline on your part. Would your local orchestra really offer enough experience to be of help? Where would you live and would you need to work?

If you want to teach at a college or university a doctorate can be needed, but not always. Your current school has, at least, not been financially stressful and I hope that leaves financial room for grad work.

Definitely decide on your goals. In fact grad school applications will ask for a personal statement on your goals and that is an important part of the application.

Finally, if someone tells you not to do something, like a summer program, and you think it would be good for you, DO it. You need to have a strong will in this area of work