I know it’s sort of a strange question because it’s the major versus a minor, but I really am stuck in the middle. Or, more correctly, I’m being wistful and I need some help moving on (haha).
UCLA has always been my dream school. I love it. Soooooo much. I waited so long to be a Bruin, and I got it! But, UCLA does not have a Music Industry major. It only has a minor. I would be a Korean major (probably double up on another language) and then really try to make something out of a Music Industry minor. I would take part in many clubs on campus and actively look for internships. I would so definitely work my butt off to make the best out of what I learn. And that’s what I decided to do when I chose UCLA over UC Berkeley and the other colleges I got accepted to.
However, I just got admitted to USC Thornton School of Music’s Music Industry program, which is my dream program. I still can’t believe I made it in! I know that it is an amazing program and it’s such a great opportunity. I was so ecstatic and in shock when I received the package, but I still love UCLA and I’m having trouble choosing USC over UCLA.
I’m pretty convinced that USC’s music industry major will be much better than UCLA’s music industry minor, but I just need some help to choose USC. Right now, I definitely feel more of a connection to UCLA and I feel like I’m a good fit with the students that go there. Can anyone please tell me more about USC (life, students, anything)?
*By the way, my long term goal is producing music, as well as concerts. I know that’s a broad range and that it will take a long time and lots of work, but I’m all for it.
“By the way, my long term goal is producing music, as well as concerts. I know that’s a broad range and that it will take a long time and lots of work, but I’m all for it.”
then that reason ALONE is why you should choose USC.
I think you will find relatively little difference between the students at USC and UCLA these days.
Both have lots of smart, hardworking students, both have strong athletic programs with lots of school pride,
I think anyone would be equally happy at either school. BUT there is NO COMPARISON between their music industry programs, and you should ALWAYS choose the school that offers the strongest program, if you know that is the business you want to work in.
Congratulations!!
Never compromise academic goals. This includes major! If you really want to go into the music industry and USC Thornton School is honestly your dream school (assuming finances work out), then go for USC! As @menloparkmom says, you always want to go for the school that has the strongest, most focused academic program.
If it makes you feel better, both schools are in LA so the vibe and the social scene outside campus won’t be too different.
For this industry, it’s all about connections. I would pick USC because as my daughters piano teacher who went there, it’s close to Juliard. In fact, my daughters previous piano teacher went to Juliard and she is not as good teacher as the USC one.
Could you do what you want to do coming from UCLA? Sure, but Thornton MI is one of the top 3 programs in the country and the connections you will make are unparalleled. As others have mentioned, there is a bit of price difference b/w the two if you are from CA, but USC is the place for what you want to do.
Congratulations on getting into both schools and their wonderful programs!! Personally, I would choose USC because you would be focusing mostly on Music Industry which gives you a better chance at getting a job in the business in the future. I really want to apply to USC’s Music Industry Program, but I technically have no experience. Did you have any experience prior to being accepted?? It’s my dream major so any advice would help!!!
Wow, you got into both of my dream schools! I would go with USC. Their music program is definitely one of the best around. Majoring there would give you an advantage over a minor at UCLA. I know some people who went there and right out of college they managed to get good jobs in music industries.
Hello! I see that’s its been a while since you posted this. Would you mind replying with what school you decided to attend? Also, USC Music Industry is my #1 goal and I would absolutely appreciate advice. College app season is coming up, and I am so nervous because I have no backup plan. I am so set on USC’s Music Industry that I’m scared it’ll all go wrong!!