<p>Oh, and lest you think I’m ignoring your interest in herbalism, this school is in Ann Arbor ;)</p>
<p>[Gaia</a> Center for Herbal Studies - Michigan Herbal Studies Center - Ann Arbor](<a href=“http://www.gaiaherbalstudies.net/]Gaia”>http://www.gaiaherbalstudies.net/)</p>
<p>Though Ann Arbor is also known for other “herbs” as well ;)</p>
<p>I would go the opposite way of other posters – I’d look for the right music program, and use alternative education routes for herbalism. If you found yourself ever interested in compound pharmacy, however, UMich does have a program!</p>
<p>Kmcmom13 - I’m impressed - you may have found the perfect solution for Gonzalo!</p>
<p>I listened to the tracks provided by Gonzalo and got a big smile on my face. Why? I found out I’m an old hipster!! This is just like George Winston.</p>
<p>I carefully read the PAT description, but, I must admit I salivated a little when I read the composition program’s description. I have decided on composition. I am also incredibly surprised and delighted that the Gaia Center is right around the corner --everything I wanted. Plus, it’s all in a scenic state with ACTUAL seasons~</p>
<p>I don’t know how you did it, amazing! :D</p>
<p>Piano is my main instrument, I’ve played since I was just a few feet tall. You’re idea is definitely great, I will try to find more modern music universities with an alternate herbal studies program nearby. As far as finances are concerned though, I need a full ride, or it would be impossible for me to attend :l</p>
<p>Gonzalo - you asked a bit further up on how to prepare. </p>
<p>The first thing you can do is prepare a spreadsheet (my son used a poster board in his room). Graph out the schools you think you will apply to and what their requirements are. This works for both audition and non-audition schools. You will find 2012 info on most websites but they will update later this summer. Right now focus on the schools that fit your goals.</p>
<p>For a composition major, there will be instructions for the application online at most. </p>
<p>Regarding the financial aspect - it can be hit and miss. I saw highly talented kids get merit at some schools and surprisingly not at lesser schools - so it is all in the interpretation of those who make the decisions.</p>
<p>Make sure you file all financial aid docs on time at all schools (fafsa starts Jan 1 - get your pin before this and be ready). These dates can also go on that spreadsheet. Check their websites for any additional scholarship application opportunities - your grades and test scores will put you in the running for these. If you set up the spreadsheet this summer and work on the compositions that are required, you will be in great shape this fall when they are all due. Most music programs have earlier due dates around Dec 1 (another thing to make sure is on that spreadsheet!)</p>
<p>Lastly, be prepared to have your music recorded by mid-Nov at the latest. I’m not sure how composition works, but if they require either digital upload or CD/DVD, you need to have the musicians/material recorded - don’t use the Dec 1 date just in case you need to rerecord. Do it earlier.</p>
<p>Don’t be put off by the cost at this point. I saw kids get great finaid packages at schools that were not known for that and then saw kids get very little from schools that had a rep for great aid. You just never know until that acceptance letter/aid package is in hand. Especially in the arts, its all about what they need/want in that class. Just make sure one of your choices is both an academic and financial safety and one that you would be happy to attend.</p>
<p>Good luck! Sounds very interesting 
LOVE the music</p>