Very nice! If you actually go to higher education to LEARN something, I think it is true that often doesn't work out. I suppose in a lot of fields learning something useful is essential! But in a lot of fields you CAN learn all you need to learn online, or from other sources.
Forty five years ago I had a similar decision to make while working toward my MM degree...and I decided to leave and drive to Hollywood to pursue a career in film music instead. Even though there was nothing I could learn about that field at a formal master's degree program (well, some, but not a lot) I have regretted that decision to this day! I only had a year to go so it was a bit different than your experience. I love school as well, so that is a difference...I think of "degree pursuing" education as a lesson in perseverance as well as a lesson in HOW to learn. But that's just me. I know that isn't true for everyone.
I now have a PhD in psychology (not music!) which I received after five years of formal graduate school...which I started when I was 50! A true glutton for punishment! (BTW, had a very successful 30 year career in film music!--learned on the street...)
Of course the internet didn't exist 45 years ago, so that makes a difference! Anyway, I'll shut up! Loved your article and congratulations to you for making the right decision putting yourself first!! (BTW, my parents went ballistic as well when I told them I was chucking the masters and headed to Hollywood!!)
Very nice! If you actually go to higher education to LEARN something, I think it is true that often doesn't work out. I suppose in a lot of fields learning something useful is essential! But in a lot of fields you CAN learn all you need to learn online, or from other sources.
Forty five years ago I had a similar decision to make while working toward my MM degree...and I decided to leave and drive to Hollywood to pursue a career in film music instead. Even though there was nothing I could learn about that field at a formal master's degree program (well, some, but not a lot) I have regretted that decision to this day! I only had a year to go so it was a bit different than your experience. I love school as well, so that is a difference...I think of "degree pursuing" education as a lesson in perseverance as well as a lesson in HOW to learn. But that's just me. I know that isn't true for everyone.
I now have a PhD in psychology (not music!) which I received after five years of formal graduate school...which I started when I was 50! A true glutton for punishment! (BTW, had a very successful 30 year career in film music!--learned on the street...)
Of course the internet didn't exist 45 years ago, so that makes a difference! Anyway, I'll shut up! Loved your article and congratulations to you for making the right decision putting yourself first!! (BTW, my parents went ballistic as well when I told them I was chucking the masters and headed to Hollywood!!)
Interesting list of learning materials. I've read or watched a number of them before learning of this list. Definitely going to consider more options.