When evaluating the worth of a music school, many prospective students and their families consider factors such as the curriculum, faculty qualifications, and available resources. While these are undoubtedly important, one often overlooked aspect is the alum network of the institution. A strong alumni network can offer an array of benefits, not only during your educational journey but also throughout your career. If you’re considering attending a music academy in Singapore or anywhere else in the world, here’s why the alumni network should be on your checklist.
A Resource of Knowledge and Experience
Alumni networks are a treasure trove of expertise and lived experience. These are individuals who have traversed the same educational path that you’re considering and have gone on to apply it in the real world. Their insights into how to make the most of your time at the academy, how to navigate challenges, and what opportunities to focus on can be invaluable. Furthermore, alumni often return to their schools to give masterclasses, workshops, and lectures, sharing their wisdom and practical tips with current students.
Networking and Career Opportunities
In the music industry, ‘who you know’ is often just as important as ‘what you know.’ Alum networks serve as a built-in community of professionals who can help you find your footing in your career. This is particularly crucial in the initial stages when you’re looking for your first break. Alumni often refer job opportunities to their network, give insider information about openings in their organizations, or even serve as mentors. Furthermore, alums in high-ranking positions can offer opportunities for collaborations, partnerships, or sponsorship deals that might be difficult to come by otherwise.
Continued Learning and Professional Development
The music industry is ever-evolving, and what you learn during your time at the academy will need to be supplemented with ongoing education and professional development. Alum networks often collaborate with their alma mater to offer additional learning opportunities like webinars, online courses, and certificates. These programmes are usually tailored to meet the needs of both current students and working professionals, thereby providing a seamless pathway for continuous learning.
Financial Support and Scholarships
Alumni networks often contribute significantly to scholarship funds and financial aid programmes specifically designed to help current students. These scholarships are generally not just based on academic merit but also consider other factors like extracurricular involvement, financial need, and more. If you’ve shown a commitment to your community and your art, the alumni network can serve as a financial resource to help you further your education.
Conclusion
Alum networks are much more than just a group of former students; they are a dynamic community of professionals who can significantly impact your educational and career journey. From being a resource of knowledge to offering networking opportunities and financial support, the role of alumni networks in music schools is expansive and invaluable. So, when choosing a music academy, don’t forget to consider the strength and engagement of its alumni network, for it could very well serve as a stepping stone to your success in the music industry.
