In addition to successfully completing an audition on their principal instrument or voice, prospective students will participate in an interview with two members of our music education faculty. The interview and audition will be scheduled for the same day. Expect a pleasant conversation filled with opportunities to tell us more about you, your leadership experiences, and your interest in a teaching career as a music educator.
Uncertain how to prepare for this type of interview? Consider the following suggestions:
- Talk with the band, choir, and/or orchestra directors in your high school and a general music teacher from elementary or middle school. For example, what do they enjoy most about their work? What do they find most challenging?
- Talk with your music teachers about the process of selecting a college music education program and preparing for a music education career. What do they feel is most important?
- Educate yourself further by reviewing the websites of professional organizations for music educators such as:
- NAfME (the National Association for Music Educators). NAfME offers professional development and advocates for ALL music educators – band, choir, orchestra, and general music.
- NCMEA (the North Carolina Music Educators Association). NCMEA (or your own states’ MEA) is NAfME’s state level affiliate.
- ACDA (the American Choral Directors Association).
- ASTA (the American String Teachers Association).
- NBA (the National Band Association).
- Think about how past leadership experiences in an educational setting have influenced your desire to teach.
- Prepare questions you want to ask if there’s time to do so during your interview.
Don’t forget: It is extremely important that your application be complete (GPA, and class ranking) in order to be considered for the Music Education major.