Music is a subject still going strong in schools. Often, it can also make a difference in a student’s academic career.

Jefferson State Community College, for example, is a school whose music program has helped students further their educations.

Teachers are charged with making an effort to connect with their students so they can find a way to get through college.

“I think that, in any classroom, the relationship between the students and the teacher is very important,” Jessica Kaufhold, choir director at Jefferson State. “Open communication is a valuable thing.”

High school graduates will find themselves in a life-changing position once they arrive at college.

Sometimes college students have trouble paying for their education. Like most colleges, Jefferson State grants scholarships to its students. Music students are no exception.

“Many of them aren’t ‘ready’ for a university experience yet and many are looking to get a two-year degree,” said Margaret Heron, choir teacher at Mortimer Jordan High School. “This scholarship has allowed many students of mine to get a college degree who might not otherwise have been able to afford it.”

“I think it’s a tremendous opportunity for my students to be on scholarships,” said Kaufhold. “I’ve got adults and 18-year-olds of every major in my classes. I think that’s just an amazing opportunity.”

Some universities don’t offer degrees in a student’s chosen field, as is the case with Jefferson State, which does not offer an associate’s degree in music. But fortunately when students gains a scholarship or guidance from a teacher, they can move forward with pursuing their hopes.

“The scholarship not only provides students an opportunity to attend school with their tuition paid,” said Ginny Hughes, choir teacher at Gardendale High School. “It also gives the students a chance to continue their choral education with a highly qualified director.”

College is a time in students’ lives where they may determine what they want to do as a profession. Those who have just graduated high school are faced with many options on what to do.

“If this is what you’re supposed to do, the challenges are completely worth it,” said Kaufhold. “You go through it and come out strong.”