Institute of Audio Research
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School of Audio Engineering
Graduation two days ago meant two things for me: One, my summer job orientation was breathing down my neck and, two, it was time to solidify the next step in my education. I entered St. John's University as a psychology major, and after taking an intro class I decided that my interest in psych was not a passion. My freshman year was a time I considered to be the greatest of my life, but it also turned out to be the most painful experience I've ever had. I started off like a majority of young men in college. I was just looking to have fun and I wasn't looking for a serious relationship, but I met a girl in my english class who captivated me and unlocked a side of me I never knew possible. I became so comfortable with her I didn't realize I was suffocating her by being around too much. Unfortunately she never communicated this with me and instead chose to break up with me, and immediately after she started dating her best guy friend from high school. I took the end of the relationship pretty badly and I had to rebuild my social life from scratch. First I had to deal with the overwhelming storm of emotions and the only way I could do that was by composing and writing. As a sophomore I used music to propel me forward and it was then that I decided to switch my major from psychology to communication arts. As a junior with the help of Mass Communications chair Dr. Monteiro I found out about an audio production class I could take through St. John's at the Institute of Audio Research. I enrolled in the class and got an A. To fulfill the requirements of my major and graduate on time I had to take 18 credits each semester until graduation. For my final semester I hoped to be able to take 5 classes at IAR for 15 of my 18 final credits. Unfortunately, in order to receive credits from IAR I would have been required to complete their 30 credit program. That door to my dream had been closed but not locked. Now I find myself a college graduate looking to further my knowledge and hone my skills to get into the music industry. My two options: IAR and SAE. Last Saturday I went to the School of Audio Engineering for an open house which consisted of a tour and a chance to ask questions about financial aid. When campus director, Michael Morrell introduced himself he explained their programs and provided a great deal of useful information, but he came off a bit cut throat. He seemed to emphasize the school's reputation and how they quickly expel students whom they feel can't handle the work load. He even said he wouldn't recommend having a job and taking classes full-time. Over all I like what the school has to offer, but I didn't get the right vibe. I then turned to a place I was familiar with: IAR. When I called IAR to inquire about admission I spoke when a rep named John Lupo. He was very engaging and animated and he made me want to come in and discuss applying. We had an appointment today and after a conversation with him I felt like he believed in me just from my explanation of my goals and aspirations. The two biggest reasons I'm leaning toward IAR are because I love their familial vibe and their tuition is 17,000 dollars less with textbooks and materials included( SAE tuition is 24,400). But before I choose I'll study both schools in more detail. I would recommend either one for those interested in a career in music.
School of Audio Engineering Info
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