The Instruments that Can Score You a Free Ride to College: Scholarships and More

It is entirely possible to get a free ride to college through playing an instrument. This article explores the various musical instruments that can secure you scholarships and other opportunities. We'll discuss scholarships, ride-sharing with actual vehicles, and unique advantages of different instruments.

Scholarship Opportunities

Just like my neighbor's daughter, an aspiring musician can find a musical path that covers a significant portion of their college expenses. Scholarships are a valuable resource for many students, and while they might not fully cover all costs, they can heavily contribute to tuition fees.

For instance, the viola is an instrument often sought after in college orchestras. Universities may offer scholarships to bring in a talented player to fill a specific need. This opportunity is not limited to the viola; other instruments like the oboe, bassoon, and French horn are in high demand due to their scarcity.

According to my own experiences, I received a scholarship for my undergraduate degree by playing the viola in the university symphony. My graduate degree was fully funded through a teaching assistantship where I taught music theory and performed as a violist. These instruments are often prioritized because universities need more players for them, hence making it easier for skilled musicians to secure a scholarship compared to more popular instruments.

Ride-Sharing and Other Practical Benefits

Believe it or not, some creative souls have found themselves receiving rides to and from college by strapping their instrument to their back and offering a thumb’s up. This unique method may not promise a return trip, but it can certainly help save transportation costs.

As mentioned by my neighbor, after the daughter graduated from college, she auditioned and joined the Air Force Band. She now teaches music in high school, showing how pursuing a musical path can lead to diverse occupational opportunities.

Conclusion

The world of music offers various ways to fund your education. From securing scholarships for specific instruments to using unconventional methods like ride-sharing, musicians have numerous ways to make college more affordable. Whether you're an aspiring violist, a dedicated oboist, or even a talented guitarist, there are unique opportunities available, enhancing your chances of getting a free ride to college.

So, pick up your instrument and start your journey. Who knows? You might just find yourself on a path that guarantees a free ride to college and beyond.