In this course, students learn about:

• Selecting schools that are the right “fit” for their goals and interests

• Writing a compelling college essay

• Preparing for auditions and interviews

• Navigating the world of financial aid, grants and scholarships

• An introduction to financial literacy

• How to approach the SAT and ACT

• Career paths both in and connected to the field of music from a wide array of guest speakers.

• By the conclusion of the program, participants will have submitted or be ready to submit their college or trade school applications.

Participation is limited to 20 students. Students who meet attendance and participation requirements are eligible to receive a stipend of up to $200!

This semester we will also welcome an inspirational lineup of guest speakers who are leaders in the arts, business sector, and the creative economy:

Spring 2025 Guest Speakers

• Nathaniel Stokes received his master’s degree in jazz performance from the University of Miami. Nat regularly performs with original music acts, cover bands, and does drum recordings for studio sessions. He also works on composing and arranging in different genres. Nat is currently with Black Violin, an American hip hop duo from Florida comprising two classically trained string instrumentalists.

• Alexandra Cutler-Fetkewicz is the founder and CEO of Philly Music Lab. A classically trained musician, Alexandra holds a tenured position in the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, and received a master’s degree in violin performance and music literature from the Eastman School of Music.

• Tiffany Spraggins is the Director of the Power Up Your Business Program at the Community College of Philadelphia, leading key initiatives within the Business and Technology division. In her role, Tiffany is committed to empowering diverse, women, and minority entrepreneurs in the Philadelphia area by providing essential resources and strategic guidance to support their business growth and scalability.

  Tiffany holds an MBA with a concentration in Strategic Design from Thomas Jefferson University's Kanbar College of Design, Engineering, and Commerce, and a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast, Telecommunications, and Mass Media from Temple University. She also earned an Associate of Arts in Communications and Theater Arts from Community College of Philadelphia. 

• Tanyika Rickard is the vice president, community manager at JP Morgan Chase.  She has over 15 years of experience in financial services, Tanyika brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for building strong community partnerships. She is deeply committed to helping individuals and families achieve their goals through thoughtful guidance and impactful solutions. Tanyika will present workshops on budgeting, credit, and saving for Project 440’s Instruments for Success and Doing Good students.