Student Testimonials Department of Music students share why they chose UC Santa Barbara This past fall, potential undergraduate and graduate students around the globe narrowed down their top choices for schools and began the application process. With its stunning campus, incredible faculty, and ample opportunities for collaboration and interdisciplinary work, UC Santa Barbara has been ranked among the top 10 public national universities by U.S. News & World Report for seven consecutive years and remains at the top of many students’ lists. We took the opportunity to ask some of our current graduate and undergraduate students why they chose UC Santa Barbara and what makes studying music here so ideal.
Tanner Cassidy, Doctor of Philosophy in Music Theory Why did you choose UC Santa Barbara? I originally heard about UCSB from an enthusiastic alumnus, and was sold on the exceptional faculty. It’s a department big enough to get a breadth of experience that’s also intimate enough to work closely with faculty and colleagues. Plus, the fair weather and nearby beaches don’t hurt either! What is your favorite part of studying theory at UC Santa Barbara? The best part of theory at UCSB is definitely how engaged and friendly my cohort is. Classes and conferences are always accompanied by lively discussions, and everyone is supportive of each others’ research. The excellent UC library services and UCSB archives also make the research process a breeze.
Photo: Zach Mendez
Jared Holton, Doctor of Philosophy in Ethnomusicology Why did you choose UC Santa Barbara? I chose UCSB for the world-class professors, teaching opportunities as a graduate student, and the impressive interdisciplinary networks across campus. I have not been disappointed! Add to this access to the immense Special Collections sound archives, professional development opportunities in pedagogy, and exposure to top-touring musicians—I’m honored to be a member of the UCSB community. Through these experiences, I have gained confidence in my abilities to research, teach, and write in the Humanities across a range of academic and non-academic positions. Plus, my musicianship has increased through participation in diverse music ensembles at UCSB. The Ethnomusicology department, in particular, is a vibrant and challenging place to absorb the past history of the field and explore the cutting edges of the present. My thinking is sharper, my writing clearer, my musicianship more perceptive, and my teaching practiced. 8 | UC Santa Barbara Department of Music | Winter 2021 Newsletter
