By Joshua Robison / The Jambar
Youngstown State University’s Dana School of Music and University Theatre will be holding an open house for prospective students from 9 a.m.-2 p.m Oct. 15 in Bliss Hall.
At Music Major for a Day, students have the opportunity to engage with YSU faculty and staff, as well as partake in various activities with current students. The open house showcases what YSU has to offer in its performing arts programs.
The event will begin in the lobby of Bliss Hall with a casual reception where students and their families can speak with YSU faculty.
Afterwards, a short recital will take place where students will be addressed and sent to their designated areas for registered activities, such as acting workshops and music lessons.
Music Major for a Day exposes potential students to a variety of aspects in the arts at YSU. The students that partake in the event will get first-hand experience of what it’s like to be a music or theatre major.
Joseph Carucci, director for the Dana School of Music and University Theatre, said the variety of participants’ ages and backgrounds diversify the program.
“We sometimes do get nontraditional students that will come, as well as younger students who are really starting to explore possible career paths,” Carucci said. “Some folks will come in from Cincinnati and spend the night, or from Pittsburgh to Cleveland is where the bulk of [students] come from.”
When Carucci became director, Music Major for a Day was one of the first events he hosted four years ago. Since then, Carucci said he has seen the benefits of the open house in his students.
“It sets them up. I believe attending Music Major for a Day sets them up for a realistic picture of what it means to be an artist and it also paints a realistic picture of the opportunities for their careers,” Carucci said.
Carucci said he feels YSU helps students looking for a career in the arts by sharing information about careers with all students.
Carucci also said the alumni network from Dana and the theatre department makes the event possible. Consistent social media posts also help promote Music Major for a Day.
Anyone interested in music and theatre careers can register for the event at no cost, regardless of if they are a current YSU student or not.
If students are unable to make the open house Oct. 15, other events such as Penguin Preview Day and audition days showcase YSU’s creative arts environment for prospective students.
