Can You Report Self-Taught Instruments on the Common App? (Spoiler Alert: You Totally Can!)
“So, I’m a total rockstar on the guitar, but I never joined the school band. Can I still brag about it on my Common App?”
Ah, the age-old question that plagues many a musically-inclined high schooler: can you report self-taught instruments on the Common App? The answer, my dear friend, is a resounding YES!
But hold your horses, aspiring musicians! There’s more to it than just slapping your name and “Guitar God” on the application and hoping for a scholarship.
The Common App doesn’t discriminate against self-taught talents. Colleges actually love to see a student who takes initiative and pursues their passions outside of the traditional school setting. They want to know what makes you tick, what gets you fired up, and how you spend your precious hours outside the classroom.
Think of it this way: You’re not just showcasing your musical skills; you’re showing off your self-discipline, dedication, and ability to learn independently. These are all valuable qualities that colleges look for in their future students.
So, how do you effectively report your self-taught instrument skills on the Common App?
Here’s a breakdown of the process, complete with some tips to make your application shine:
1. The Common App Activities Section: Your Stage
This is where you’ll showcase your extracurricular activities, including your self-taught instrument skills. Remember, the Common App Activities section is your chance to paint a picture of your personality and interests.
- Think about the impact of your self-taught musical journey. What have you learned beyond just playing the instrument? Did you teach yourself music theory? Did you write songs? Did you perform at local open mics or online platforms? These are all valuable experiences that can strengthen your application.
- Don’t be afraid to get creative with your descriptions. Instead of simply stating “Guitarist,” think about how you can make your entry stand out. For example, you could say:
- ” Self-Taught Guitarist: Composed and recorded original music, performed at local open mics, and participated in online music communities.“
- ” Musician: Learned piano independently, performed at family gatherings and local events, and explored various genres ranging from classical to jazz.“
- ” Self-Taught Pianist: Developed a passion for classical music, participated in online piano competitions, and explored the works of renowned composers.“
- Include any relevant details that highlight your dedication and achievements. If you’ve received any awards or recognition for your music, mention it. If you’ve participated in online music communities or competitions, list those as well.
2. The Resume: Your Encore
While the Common App itself might not include a dedicated section for resumes, most colleges do accept them as supplemental materials.
- Think of your resume as an opportunity to expand on your activities. You can list your self-taught instrument experience with more detail, including:
- Specific skills: List the specific musical skills you’ve developed (e.g., sight-reading, improvisation, composing, recording, etc.).
- Projects: If you’ve created any original music, recorded your own tracks, or participated in any collaborative projects, list them here.
- Performances: Include any performances you’ve given, including the dates, venues, and any specific achievements or recognition you received.
- Remember to tailor your resume to the specific college you’re applying to. Highlight skills and experiences that align with the college’s musical programs or departments.
3. The Essay: Your Musical Soliloquy
This is where you can truly shine and let your personality come through.
- Choose an essay topic that allows you to talk about your musical journey. It could be about:
- The challenges of learning an instrument independently.
- The impact music has had on your life.
- How your self-taught musical skills have contributed to your growth.
- A specific musical experience that shaped your passion for music.
- Use vivid language and storytelling techniques to engage the admissions committee. Let them feel your passion for music and understand how it’s shaped who you are.
- Remember to tie your musical journey back to your academic goals. How has learning music helped you develop important skills like discipline, perseverance, and creativity? How will these skills translate to your success in college?
4. The Interview: Your Final Performance
If you’re lucky enough to get an interview, be ready to talk about your musical journey.
- Practice talking about your experiences in a clear and engaging way. Be prepared to answer questions about why you chose to learn music independently, what challenges you faced, and how it has impacted your life.
- Don’t be afraid to showcase your personality. Show them your passion for music and let your enthusiasm shine.
5. Remember: It’s About Authenticity
Colleges are looking for well-rounded individuals who are passionate about their interests. Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Be authentic, be yourself, and let your musical journey shine through.
The Final Note
Remember, your self-taught instrument skills are a valuable asset. They demonstrate your self-motivation, dedication, and ability to learn independently. By showcasing your musical journey authentically, you’ll create a memorable application that sets you apart from the crowd.
Need more guidance on crafting the perfect Common App? Join us at the JobLoving community for personalized advice and support. We’re here to help you rock your college applications and achieve your dreams!