It takes passion to pursue your dream, especially when you’re a nontraditional student who didn’t attend college right after high school. Whether you’re juggling kids, a job, and/or other commitments, succeeding at school and in life is entirely achievable for you. Wherever you are in life, here’s how nontraditional students can prepare for higher education and create great music. (And while it’s geared toward adult students, a lot of this advice is great for anyone pursuing a Music degree!)
Challenges faced by nontraditional college students
Knowing what to expect as someone in your unique position can better prepare you for your college experience. Here are some common challenges you may face if you’re a nontraditional student preparing to be a Music major.
- Balancing school and other responsibilities: Going to college later in life often means juggling family and work commitments. Many nontraditional students work full-time jobs, making it challenging to find time for classes and completing assignments.
- Financial strain: Returning to school can also create financial pressure, as balancing tuition and other obligations can cause stress and affect your ability to focus on your studies.
- Returning after a hiatus: Re-entering school after a break can bring a lot of uncertainties. You may worry if you still have certain academic skills, can keep up with coursework, or make friends. Overcoming these doubts is vital to academic success.
- Dealing with imposter syndrome: Imposter syndrome is common among nontraditional college students, leaving them feeling inadequate. This phenomenon—along with inconsistent schedules and lack of sleep—can contribute to stress.
Related: Is It Too Late to Go Back? How to Navigate the World of Adult Education
Academic advice for nontraditional Music students
Schoolwork can make any student feel overwhelmed. Despite any challenges you may face, you can still have a successful college experience. As a Music major, you’ll learn about music history while completing theory homework and outside music projects. Give yourself enough time to complete your requirements and keep this academic advice in mind as you dive back into Music education.
Practice a lot
Regular musical practice is essential for many reasons. For one, mastering a vocal technique or your instrument requires technical skills and muscle memory. You may also need more time in formal lessons due to your other commitments. Lastly, practicing builds your discipline and helps you learn effective time management, which is essential when juggling responsibilities.
Say yes to opportunities
When given the chance to be in an ensemble or participate in a project that interests you, whatever it is, go for it! Slowly leaving your comfort zone will boost your confidence and make you the musician you want to be. Play in a band or perform with the campus orchestra, even if it scares you. Community participation will help you be a better Music student, and a new opportunity can make you appreciate and respect music more and even help you discover new interests.
Create a conducive study environment
It’s helpful to create a dedicated study area in your home. Stock this room with the supplies you need to practice music and consider soundproofing your walls to limit noise. You can also incorporate stress toys or a stash of healthy snacks to aid your studying.
Related: 9 Simple Steps to Creating an Ideal Study Space
Invest in technology and record yourself
Record your practice sessions and rehearsals, lessons, and performances—and don’t delete them. Save these files to use for personal feedback and assess your skills over time. You may not notice your progress daily, but listening to your performances over time will help you see how far you’ve come. Software such as LilyPond and MuseScore makes studying and creating music easier. In addition to applications, invest in other audio technologies such as midi keyboards, headphones, and microphones.
Limit social media usage
Social media is a distraction, making it more challenging to complete schoolwork. Constant exposure can also disrupt your circadian rhythm, leading to sleep disturbances and stress. Fewer distractions from the digital world will give you more opportunities to practice your craft, engage in self-reflection, and enhance your creativity.
Keep an open mind
Music is ever-changing, which is why keeping an open mind to trends is essential. Learn new techniques and approaches, even if they go against your musical instincts. Embrace unfamiliar methods to enhance your performance. You’ll encounter diverse teaching styles in college, and an open mind will help you find what learning methods work best for you. The same advice applies when receiving constructive criticism; openness to feedback will allow you to view comments as growth opportunities rather than personal attacks.
Make time for relaxation
Rest is essential for your creative process, so avoid overextending yourself. Release stress by going for walks, having dinner with friends, or taking a hike with your pet. Most importantly, spend time listening to music you enjoy. As a musician, don’t forget to foster your love of music as a listener as well as a performer. Get inspiration from the wealth of fantastic artists out there. Listening to various styles may even inspire your future work.
Unconventional advice to boost your skills as a Music student
You can also try some more unconventional strategies inside and outside the classroom to hone your musical skills. Here are a few other ways to increase your chances of succeeding with music in college and beyond.
- Study a foreign language: Many musicians practice their craft globally. During your program, you’re likely to perform a foreign piece. Learning a new language, even just the basics, will give you an edge over other students and make learning easier. Consult with your Music professors about which languages are best for you.
- Become a fluent writer and speaker: Musicians communicate through music and lyrics. Aside from that, you also need to write grant proposals, negotiate, and promote your interests through oral and written communication in college.
- Compose a piece: In addition to practicing, you should also write music during your free time. Don’t overthink it—just create something for yourself, a significant other, your family, or your friends. Composing can help you find the fun in completing schoolwork and assignments.
Related: Our Best Advice on Building Important Skills as a Student
Pursuing Music in college is a rewarding journey filled with endless possibilities. This advice will help you become better equipped to succeed in your studies no matter your age or educational path. Remember that progress is personal, and every step you take brings you closer to becoming a better musician.
Have you found colleges that fit you as a nontraditional student? Check out and connect with great schools for performing arts on our featured college lists!
