Harmonizing with the New Semester: Building Confidence as a Music Therapy Student (AUgust 2024)

As a student beginning their last semester of college, I was thinking of my past years as a student. My first year I was filled with so much fear and uncertainty, and with this in mind, I thought I would like to discuss confidence while starting a semester. Here are some things I have learned along the way: 

Tip #1: Little steps at a time
I always thought that I had to take everything all at once to feel successful, but that is not the case at all. I find myself much more productive and therefore confident if I beat small challenges and take tiny wins throughout my day, month, and semester. At the end of the day, it is not a race. Take your time, one little step at a time.

“One step at a time, one hope then another, who knows where this road may go?” – Lynn Ahrens, “Journey to the Past” from film Anastasia

Tip #2: Failure does not mean that you’re incapable, rather it means you are growing.
As someone who is a perfectionist, failure is not an option. I dread the feeling of it, I want things to go well. Yet, there have been multiple moments where I have failed–because I am human–and instead of giving up, I took that experience as a way to improve. I think as a student, you are in the best position to fail because this is the time for you to learn from your mistakes (not saying that as a professional you cannot fail and learn). Do not give up, especially if it’s for something you are passionate about!

Tip #3: Be genuine
I consider myself an ambivert. Funny enough if you ask around there will be mixed responses regarding my personality. Some say that I am the shyest and sweetest person; whereas some say that I will not stop yapping and that I am sociable to anyone and everyone. Honestly, both parts are the real me. I have found that I have the best time when I am my true self around others. The same can be said around my peers and my clients because that is where true connections and progress can be made. Being yourself is the best thing you can be!

Tip #4: Make friends and connections 
I love how wonderful music therapy students are! I have felt so welcomed by everyone in this field. They’ve surrounded me with so much joy and positive feelings. I have met a lot of my closest friends through music therapy. I have learned from very wise professors and supervisors along the way. Overall, I would say taking the time to meet people makes this field so much more worth it, because after all we are all here to help others!

Tip #5: Mental health matters
This one I would emphasize a million times if I could. I’ve had multiple rough episodes of mental health crises. I would say connecting with my professors, friends, and support group (family members) was one of the best things to do. I also took time to seek therapy and found comfort in God and my spiritual beliefs. Whatever brings you comfort, take the time to take care of yourself. It is not selfish to pause and care for yourself. Afterall, working with clients requires your full, genuine, and healthy self. 

Tip #6: Find hobbies outside of music
Many people actually shared this tip with me and as time progressed in college I found that it is very valuable. I take time outside of music. For example, I like to play with my pet bunny, I like to watch my favorite anime, I stress bake, I read a lot (keep up with a very long TBR), and occasionally I crochet. There is more to me than my musical identity. Plus, it is fun to spend time doing things that bring you joy. 

Tip #7: Enjoy the music
I know my previous tip was about finding things about music but also enjoy the music! You are pursuing this degree because you know how powerful music can be in your life and others. Sometimes when I am in sessions and connecting through the music I realize that I am so fortunate to experience music the way I do. I think music is just a huge part of the human experience. 

Tip #8: Ask questions, explore!
Lastly, do not be afraid to ask questions and explore! I find myself constantly inquisitive of brain processes, how to improve my musical skills, and about opportunities of growth. I realized that as a student I have all of the opportunities to explore and research. I have wonderful professors that will allow me to be curious because at the end of the day I am growing. This is all a part of learning and becoming the professional that we all want to be.

If you made it this far, thank you for reading! Hope you have a wonderful semester. I believe in you, believe in yourself as well! If you have any questions or would like to share semester moments with me, do not hesitate to email me at [email protected].

With warmest wishes,
Karina Colon Fuentes, AMTAS President-Elect