We recently received news that my son’s school, The College of St. Rose in Albany, NY, will be closing in June 2024. As a member of the junior class, he will need to complete his Music Industry degree at another institution. It is important to bring this to your attention for two reasons. Firstly, we have come to realize that college closures are more prevalent than we previously thought, affecting not only the Northeast but also other areas. In fact, Cazenovia College closed its doors last year as well. To explore more statistics and a comprehensive list of closed colleges, you can visit this link.

Moving Forward

Now, we were fully aware of the challenges faced by St. Rose when our son decided to attend. Based on the information we received, we believed that the school would continue to operate for a few years after his graduation in spring 2025. However, we were mistaken – and this brings me to the second reason for sharing this.

Although I completely understand the frustration, it is important to remain composed and focused on finding a solution for the students amidst the school’s financial distress. The lack of transparency from Saint Rose, coupled with the mandatory nondisclosure agreements, has certainly contributed to the current predicament faced by parents, students, faculty, and staff. However, instead of directing anger and criticism towards the administration, let us shift our focus towards identifying a viable path forward. Now, more than ever, it is crucial to unite and work towards ensuring a brighter future for the students.

The school, in close collaboration with the New York State Department of Education, has implemented a comprehensive plan to ensure a smooth transition for students, allowing them to transfer their credits seamlessly to their specific degree programs at other accredited institutions. Although this situation can be frustrating, it is important to remember that life is not always a linear path. Challenges and obstacles are inevitable for everyone, and how we confront and overcome them is what truly matters. Instead of dwelling on the frustrations, we took immediate action by reaching out to other schools and universities, along with the parents of our son’s girlfriend. In less than 24 hours, we successfully devised a plan for our son and his girlfriend to continue their education at a new institution, confidently moving forward with their academic journey.

Choices

What many of us have overlooked at certain moments in our lives is the undeniable influence of the choices we make on our current circumstances. We consciously made the decision to allow our son to attend a school that was clearly grappling with financial difficulties. The abundance of news articles in the past five to six years served as stark reminders of the challenges confronting the school. We must acknowledge that this was a deliberate choice.

Learning Resilience

Furthermore, it is through facing and overcoming unexpected challenges that we truly grow as individuals. Life has a way of throwing curveballs our way, and it is during these times that our resilience and adaptability come into play. By experiencing and navigating through these obstacles with grace and determination, we not only demonstrate to ourselves but also to others, including our children, the importance of embracing change and embracing uncertainty.

Teaching our son that nothing is entirely within our control can be a valuable life lesson. It helps to instill in him a sense of flexibility and open-mindedness, allowing him to navigate the ever-changing landscape of life with more ease. This understanding encourages him to become more self-reliant and resourceful, empowering him to find alternative solutions when the original plan deviates or encounters roadblocks.

In a world that is constantly evolving, it is crucial for us and our loved ones to possess the skills and mindset necessary to adapt to new situations. By embracing the unexpected and approaching challenges with grace, we can cultivate a sense of resilience and optimism that will serve us well in all areas of life. So, let us continue to guide our son along this path of growth and self-discovery, showing him the power of embracing change and facing obstacles with unwavering determination.

Gratitude

Upon reflecting on his time at the college, it is evident that my son is truly grateful for the profound impact it has had on his life. The College of Saint Rose, renowned for its excellence in education, offered a vibrant and enriching environment for students to pursue their passions.

The Music Industry Program at the college is particularly noteworthy, providing a comprehensive and unparalleled experience for aspiring musicians. Through this program, my son had the opportunity to collaborate with talented fellow students and esteemed faculty members who possess a deep understanding and extensive experience in the music industry.

The faculty members at the College of Saint Rose, with their invaluable guidance and mentorship, have played a pivotal role in shaping my son’s artistic journey. Their expertise and commitment to nurturing individual talent have not only bolstered his skills but have also instilled in him a profound love for music.

Beyond the classroom, the college fosters a rich and diverse community, creating the perfect backdrop for students to grow both academically and personally. Engaging in various musical events, workshops, and performances, my son was able to gain practical exposure in the dynamic world of music.

James R. Simonds performs “Thrill of it All” by Black Sabath

The College of Saint Rose has proven to be a nurturing ground for budding musicians, offering a myriad of opportunities to hone their craft and excel in their chosen field. The invaluable experiences my son acquired during his time at the college will undoubtedly serve as a strong foundation for his future endeavors in the music industry.

In conclusion, I want to emphasize the profound gratitude my son feels for the College of Saint Rose and its remarkable Music Industry Program. The supportive community, dedicated faculty, and unparalleled experiences have undoubtedly shaped him into the talented and passionate musician he is today.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the remarkable faculty and staff of The College of Saint Rose. Their unwavering dedication has provided our son with an extraordinary experience and a world-class education. As the St. Rose community embarks on their next chapter, we have full confidence in their abilities to achieve great success. The colleges and universities that will welcome these exceptional students are truly fortunate to have them.