As a part of the department’s on-going program and student evaluation process, all Science & Arts music majors are asked to complete an exiting self-assessment essay. This assessment is used by the department to monitor, assist, and evaluate the progress and goals of all majors. Please note that all music majors must turn in this self-assessment to the coordinator as part of their comprehensive portfolio one week prior to their exit interview. It is our hope that this system of assessment will assist our student/faculty advising process and will also provide each student with a clearer idea of personal and professional goals and expectations.
The student’s advisor will review and grade the exiting self-assessment essay based on the content, supporting ideas, grammar, spelling, and writing flow. The purpose of this grade is not to critique a student’s personal ideas or experiences. Rather, it is meant to make sure each student completes the task thoughtfully and carefully. Each student will discuss their exiting self-assessment essay with the music faculty during their exit interview.
Please note that students will NOT be allowed to graduate UNTIL this assessment has been presented to and discussed with the music faculty. Students will not be allowed to graduate until they obtain a grade of “C” or better on the self-assessment. This document will form the final reflection on each student’s goals and progress throughout their time at Science & Arts. A copy of the essay will be placed in your confidential file. The confidential file will also provide valuable material to faculty in the future who may be called upon to reference your work as a student.
Essay Instructions
All music majors must respond to the following questions in a thoughtful and complete manner. Please use an appropriate formal letter format as you respond to these questions:
- What do you think your greatest academic strengths are?
- What do you think your greatest musical strengths are?
- What were your biggest academic challenges or obstacles during your time at Science & Arts?
- What were your greatest challenges or obstacles as a musician during your time at Science & Arts?
- Explain the role or importance of school and music studies in your life.
- Based on both your accomplishments and challenges as a student and musician, what are your plans or goals for your musical career now that you are done at Science & Arts? How does this relate to your original academic and musical goals when you first entered Science & Arts?
- How has Science & Arts prepared you, both musically and academically, for your future life plans? Consider the university and the department’s mission statements and goals as you explain your answer.
USAO Music Department 