“I transferred to Caldwell from West Chester University, a large state school in PA. Although WCU is known for music and marching band, its large size and high-pressured music conservatory were not a good fit for me. I knew I belonged at a smaller, private university where I could thrive under the guidance of professors who took the time to know me as a person, and not my student ID number. Caldwell did exactly that. As an undergraduate flutist at CU I played the most challenging flute pieces I´ve ever learned. Professor Vega knew my strengths and challenged me to be the best version of myself. It was under her guidance and encouragement that I started teaching private flute lessons myself. The lifelong mentorship and collaboration that the Caldwell professors and alumni have are incomparable.”

“Being a part of Caldwell University’s music program absolutely changed my life. Being a smaller department, it gave me the opportunity for strength and growth in performing. From lead roles to secondary roles to chorus roles, I was able to experience all the different aspects of what it is to be on stage. I also had the opportunity to be a part of different ensembles and learn new instruments! My professors knew who I was and took an interest in my life and who I am as a person. I was always able to reach out for support and never felt left behind, and I always felt seen and appreciated. I still am close to my professors after graduating from Caldwell 12 years ago – the bond I was able to create is a lifelong one.”

“I loved my time at Caldwell University because it was not only a place to go to school, but a community. Because of its smaller size, I got to know my classmates and professors well, and I never felt like I was just another student lost in the crowd. I’m grateful that I went to college in such a supportive environment where I was encouraged to grow and try new things. I think I am a more well rounded teacher today because of all the opportunities I received at Caldwell University. In my career I’ve taught choir, orchestra, piano, and general music, as well as assisted with our marching band. I believe that I had the confidence and ability to do all of these different things because at Caldwell, I was able to be involved in multiple ensembles and learn more than one instrument. Even today as I continue to be involved in ensembles as an alumni, I am learning new things at Caldwell University all the time. “

“I chose Caldwell because of how important I felt the moment I came in for my audition. Prof. Vega, Dr. Greenwald, and Dr. Childress had read my resume prior to the audition, and this made me feel welcomed and comfortable right away. I also got the sense that I would be valued as a student and have many opportunities to be featured and positively contribute to the various ensembles. Many of the other universities and colleges in the area were too large for me and I didn’t feel as though I was that important to them. As a bonus, I loved how close it was to my home which afforded me a great education and allowed me to remain close with my family.”

“I went to a small high school and wanted a small college atmosphere as well. I got that and so much more at Caldwell. Your classmates and professors become your family and support system; I never would have gotten that anywhere else. I am grateful for everything that my professors taught me at Caldwell; I would not be where I am today without their patience, guidance, and teaching.”

“Caldwell University was very inviting and accepting, and the small campus made it easy to be involved in a variety of activities.  Some of my closest friends were met in college. I carry some great memories from Caldwell and I hope to stay in touch with the university.”

“The advice I have for undergraduates is that the professors at Caldwell were always available to address concerns I was having. My advice would be to trust the professors and don’t be afraid to ask for help.”

“Caldwell University is a non-judgmental community of learning where students pursue their goals with the help of dedicated and supportive professors. I enjoyed the small class sizes at Caldwell University which allowed me to work closely with my professors and classmates. I built long-lasting friendships and accomplished things that I didn’t believe I would ever be able to. I am a more well-rounded professional and a better person because I attended Caldwell University.”

“Caldwell University was a great place to start my passion for music and teaching because it gave me the opportunity to try many different things that I could then take into the classroom such as choir, flute ensemble, children’s opera, musical theater and so much more. When you are a part of a music department that treats you like family and offers you many different aspects in music besides the specific area you are studying, it broadens your knowledge and experience in that field. I would choose Caldwell University all over again. “

“Caldwell was the best choice I made for school. I found a home in the music department that helped me grow as a person and musician. I received so many opportunities to learn that I wouldn’t have been offered in a larger setting. Caldwell made me the person I am today!”

“Caldwell is a supportive community. My professors deeply cared for and assisted me when I needed it the most and always had the best advice.  I grew as a musician as well as a person while attending Caldwell. I was very introverted when I began college and I slowly started to break out of my shell as I became more involved in additional clubs and ensembles. I also really enjoyed the small classes and felt it allowed me to be seen as a person instead of a number compared to a larger university. Caldwell was the way to go for me and I hope for you! “

“I had a wonderful undergraduate experience at Caldwell University. The Caldwell community always provided a sense of warmth and belonging. I felt this especially within the music program. The faculty was friendly, knowledgeable, and readily available for all students. They continually helped me acknowledge my potential and encouraged me to reach my goals.”

“Caldwell gives opportunities that most universities do not provide to their students. You are able to pave your own path the way that you want to pave it with guidance from professors who genuinely care about your progress and success. In my experience, Caldwell not only met but exceeded my expectations in the music department. All the professors who remain are professors who I have relationships with & am proud to. The music department truly elevated my professional life, and I was even able to incorporate music into my life skills coaching!”

“Caldwell University granted me the space I needed to figure out who I am. The Department of Music guided my ambition like a melody on a score, having taught me the study skills and passion I needed to reach for the next movement of my life!”

“Caldwell became my home away from home. The music department not only taught me everything I know about music, but they took care of me as if I were a family member. I had many performance opportunities that I would have not received if I had gone to another, larger school. I am happy to be able to go back and play in ensembles and work alongside my professors.”

Amanda is the General Music Teacher, Band, and Choir Director at Eleanor G. Hewitt Intermediate School. While at Caldwell University she received the Certificate of Honor in Secondary Education. She remains active in the Caldwell University music department as a brass instructor for the marching band and a member of the alumni wind and flute ensembles.

“At first, I chose Caldwell because it was close enough yet far enough away from home. I stayed because of the community and culture that Caldwell embodied. I never felt like a number on a roster. The professors at Caldwell took the time to build relationships with their students. Being a college athlete and a music major was no easy feat, but I had a team of professors and coaches who supported my success both on the court and in the classroom. Caldwell truly was a home away from home.”