New Beginnings: A College Crash Course

Dear [Insert Your Name Here],

I have a confession to make: This fall I transferred to Middle Tennessee State University. I am giving yet another college (#3 to be exact) a chance as I attempt to pursue my dreams of being a songwriter and music professional. I like many other college students seek to find a program or major that suits their particular career interests but when it boils down to it I just wish to be free and working in my profession.

I find that I do need to focus my energy and create a more structured program and that is why I choose to attend college at this time rather than pursue music full time. I also wish to learn better time management skills and working for a deadline while controling the stress or anxiety that comes with completing a project on time. What can I handle a once? How long does it take me to write a certain type of song or composition? How exactly am I going to accomplish my goals?

Why not just go "all the way" and work in my field now? Sometimes more questions are raised then answers, but I personally believe it is important for an individual to frequently question the state of their situation and whether or not they are indeed taking the necessary steps toward their professional goals. I find that a lot of times the world and the people around you expect you to fit into this prescribed scene, and you tend to just keep listening to them over and over. Everything "they" say seems to be the way to get there, but is it really?

You are told to follow these paths because choosing other options are "too hard" or simply "impossible." Impossible should not even be in the dictionary. Do not let someone use that against you because life (and college) is about learning and helping you take the steps you need to have a fulfilling life. If you know what you want, then you can get it.

I can make it. I can take it. How about you?

Any individual can accomplish any dream they can imagine, and though it may not turn out exactly as they planned originally the journey to the point of success is right in front of you. I tell myself these things everyday and I picture that person that I want to be which is the person that I am now.

Am I where I want to be? Yes and no. But only until I accept that I am already there will I be there.

Sincerely,

J.P. Dennis

J.P. Dennis is a student at Middle Tennessee State University Student. He is a music major and concentrates some "free time" to researching the college experience, thought process, finances, business, and music topics. Dennis is a published composer. More information can be found on his official website: www.jpdennis.com .