Friday was the big move! I'm in the process of getting settled in my new home; housing is on campus, so I'll spend the next 6 months living at the VA Medical Center. All the excitement of preparing to start has reminded me of what I was feeling this time last year, when I had just begun to dip my toes into the ocean of internship possibilities. I wrote this post to share the four most important things I learned during my own interview process; I hope it helps any music therapy students who are preparing to start their own interviews!
1. Practicum hours MATTER.
Practicum hours matter. Your practicum logs matter. your practicum EXPERIENCES matter. During every interview, I answered specific questions about my experiences in the practicum setting; in fact, that was MOST of every interview. So, keep track of your dates, log your hours, get everything signed off, but do more than that. Thing of specific events from practicums; what was your favorite setting? What do you feel like your strengths are? What are your weaknesses? Make sure you know these things, because I promise that potential internship supervisors will want to know them as well.
2. Don't be afraid to make yourself look good.
No one wants an arrogant, know-it-all intern, but self-deprecation is not an attractive quality either. Graciously acknowledge and explain your short-comings and weaknesses when asked, (and you WILL be asked), but consistently present yourself in a positive light. Don't make excuses for yourself, and don't talk down about yourself, your school, or your abilities. Realistically express yourself in the best way possible. Confidence is a powerful thing. (I know we all struggle with this, that's why I put it on my list).
3. You should like your audition songs.
How many times have we all played 'You Are My Sunshine' or the 'Hokey Pokey'? Yes, you will probably use these in sessions, but let your audition songs show a little more of Your personality, while still being session-appropriate. Pick fun songs from a variety of genres that demonstrate different guitar techniques, and then have fun playing them. The enjoyment will shine through, and make you more impressive. Tailor your songs to your population of choice, but pick one that You like.
Note: Ask your supervisor if all your songs have to be vocal. If they say no, don't be afraid to play an instrumental audition piece. Bust out your improv skills, play a Chopin nocturne, do anything that will set you apart musically.
4. Time flies.
Time doesn't just fly, your senior year; it breaks the sound barrier. Time flies with your friends, with your music studies, with your college experience... but it also flies with things like internship deadlines. Always assume the registrar's office will take longer than you think it will, that your applications will be longer and harder than you expected, and that things will go wrong. Bonus: if you get stuff done early, you have more time to spend with friends, and less time spent crying in Mr. Pierce's office :)
Sunday, July 27, 2014
Introduction
Hello all! I've started my blog, "Music in All Things", to keep up with everyone during my music therapy internship at a VA hospital in Salem, Virginia. I will be working under a board-certified music therapist from July 25- January 25th, 2015. This clinical training is required for completion of my degree, and certification as a music therapist. This is an exciting and challenging experience for me, and I will welcome prayers and support during my next adventure!
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