In my teenage years, a band of mine each saved up money to record an album at a studio. We brought the 12-track album to completion, and I always loved the experience. Ever since immersing myself in a recording studio I have wanted to have one myself. In my 20s, I worked at a music venue, doing sound engineering for local, regional, and touring bands. I learned a lot about feedback (ha!), mixing instruments to sound nice together, getting the live mix just right, what to do and not do with microphones. After about 5 years of that I opened a recording studio, so I could really study the craft of mixing, mixing for a release, rather than just one performance. Unfortunately, maintaining and operating this space was a costly endeavor, and I found myself struggling to keep it afloat. I booked many hours of lessons to keep it running, and eventually didn't have any time to record or write music as I have always dreamed to do! Along side the studio business, I have assisted at the local High School, and eventually landed a teaching role, when a music teacher left without notice. Because I had been teaching music on my own for years, I was more than capable to step into that position. But in order to keep the role of teaching, I need to obtain my teaching license, which requires a Bachelors degree. After High School, I immediately jumped into playing music and the waging-work world. So I never did pursue college. At 30, I realized I couldn't operate my recording studio, and pursue college at the same time. So I ended up closing shop, and applying to Berklee Online. What appealed to me about Berklee was that I could be immersed in course-work related to what I have always loved, and really learn how to strengthen my chops, while appeasing the Degree I needed to pursue teaching. Which brings me to today, I'm 31 today, and am currently in my 3rd semester. I have so far maintained a 4.0 GPA, and I really am working hard every week to keep it there. With Berklee Online I am able to pursue higher education, while staying within my community. After receiving my degree, I plan to continue teaching, pay off all my debts, and reopen a studio space to flourish in, write songs, produce local artists, and pursue opportunities in publishing and sync opportunities. Thank you for your consideration! Best, Patrick Yeo