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!!)
They go through all kinds of philosophical arguments. Aeon is more broad covering history to social media and beyond. Psyche focuses on the mind specifically.
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!!)
Wow! Just seeing this now Todd. It looks like you're living life on your terms.
Wishing you happiness and love 💕
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.
Awesome!
Are there any resources you would recommend? You can share here
Well aside from my own stuff which goes through some of the philosophical concepts behind various film and TV shows...
https://tvphilosophy.substack.com
I would highly recommend two related sites:
https://aeon.co and its sister site https://psyche.co
They go through all kinds of philosophical arguments. Aeon is more broad covering history to social media and beyond. Psyche focuses on the mind specifically.