Five Towns College

A lot of people say negative things about this school. These people are either not a music student or are people who did not apply themselves and wanted a party school. This in not a party school nor are there fraternities and sororities. This school is an amazing music school. I have learned so much. There are many opportunities to build a resume (Student Government, Clubs, Radio Show host, if you write music and it's good enough the ensembles may perform them at concerts, and much much much more). DO NOT listen to the terrible reviews, this school is AMAZING. It prepares you for the real world, especially in the music education department.

4th Year Male -- Class 2013

Education Quality: A+, Campus Aesthetics: D

A great school. I am able to learn what I need to and teachers have been readily available to me outside of class and are very willing to share their knowledge in the subject areas. Yeah, I've had my few difficulties with certain faculty, but that hasn't at all diminished my progress and how much I have learned thus far.

2nd Year Male -- Class 2014

Education Quality: A+, Surrounding City: B

For starters, my full course description is Jazz/Commercial Music with a concentration in Audio Recording Technology. As for a small background, I had no experience in Music or Audio prior to enrolling, and had found out that I barely passed my audition to get into the program (Which yes, has about a 40 - 60% acceptance, depending on instrument and other factors such as potential).

A majority of the recent ratings I was able to figure out who had written them (small campus - you can recognise the reactions and relate them to people you know), and I can say they are from students that are likely failing their classes and undermining the school to let that frustration out. Yes, I will be blunt and admit that the authorities of the school are undergoing their own political struggle, but for those stating the school is overpriced; it is average among tuition rates if not lower; and for those complaining about teachers; if the teacher truly is not doing well, you have every right to talk with the provost and dean of students about such, and then get them re-evaluated (Although most students will complain to others before having to do something themselves).

This school has a wondrous amount of potential in it, as I was able to go from no knowledge whatsoever of the subjects I was in to being in the upper percentile of students. Through my education, I have also been able to work through programs in the school. A majority of previous teachers know me by name, as well as several members of the Bursar's, so I do not struggle with having to sign up for classes or figure out anything regarding billing. The courses are challenging enough to allow students to excel and to also sort out the students serious about their program. The teachers in my degree are very knowledgeable about their subject areas and are very willing to share their knowledge outside of the course syllabus upon being asked. I am given plenty of opportunities to raise the amount of scholarship money I receive. Another main benefit I've gotten out of the school is just a total inspiration to want to learn more. Lastly, I'd like to say that as with any school there are the ups and downs, such as the food not being the best or students that just don't get along with teachers. One thing that I always argue with other students over is that they close their minds off. Once the class is dismissed, some will do nothing for themselves as far as advancing their musicianship (such as something so simple as doing an assigned homework), and will complain about the class being hard or unfair even though they are given all the tools to succeed. The education you receive here, or anywhere for that matter, is what you make of it. If you're a dedicated and hardworking student, you will do well, but if you are a slacker that graduates by the minimum (a 2.0 here), it is just likely you won't find a job anywhere in the professional field.

2nd Year Male -- Class 2014

Education Quality: A+, Scholastic Success: F