u/Intelligent_Seat_377

Hello everyone, I need some advice and help.

I’m working toward becoming a Registered Nurse and planning to apply to an ADN program since it’s the fastest path for me. My goal is to start in Spring next year, but I’m not sure if my timeline lines up. Right now, I’m taking a full course load this summer, and afterward I’ll have about three major prerequisite classes left that I plan to complete in the Fall. I was considering splitting one of the harder classes into Winter because the workload is heavy, but I’m worried that could affect my eligibility for Spring admission. I’ve also heard that nursing applications are due around September, which is where I’m getting confused.

If I’m still finishing prerequisites during Fall, does that mean I wouldn’t qualify for Spring entry? I’m mainly looking at Los Angeles Valley College (LAVC). From what I understand, their ADN program requires prerequisites to be completed before applying, which makes me unsure whether Fall courses would count toward the Spring cycle.

If anyone knows of ADN programs in the Los Angeles area that are more flexible and allow applicants to finish final prerequisites during Fall or Winter, I’d really appreciate the recommendations. Any advice or personal experience would help a lot as I try to plan this out carefully and avoid missing an application cycle.

Thank you

B

Hello everyone,
I wanted to ask what the Music Department at Pasadena City College is like. I’m thinking about transferring there for Fall 2026 as a piano performance major, and I’d love to hear about people’s experiences.

I’m especially interested in the piano and theory faculty. Which professors would you recommend for:
Harmony 2
Musicianship 2
Piano/performance studies

I’m also interested in auditioning for the Applied Music Program, but I had a question about the commitment. Since I plan to transfer after about two semesters, would I still be able to participate, or is it mainly intended for students completing all four semesters?

Lastly, how is the orchestra overall? What has your experience been like with the ensemble and conductors? I also heard there’s a piano ensemble class just for pianists, which sounds really exciting!

If there are any piano players at PCC who would be interested in duetting or collaborating, feel free to DM me I’d really love the opportunity to duet and work with other musicians!

Thanks
Becky

Hi everyone!

I’m a Piano Performance major and have been having a hard time really internalizing music theory.

I’m currently taking theory classes in college, but I often feel like the material isn’t sticking: sometimes the explanations just don’t click, and I wish there were more ways to really drill and reinforce the concepts, especially since I know how important theory is for my career.

I’ve already explored a lot of the commonly recommended websites and resources, but I’m looking for more effective methods; study techniques, exercises, workbooks, or practice routines, that helped make theory finally “click” for you long-term.

Also, ear training has been a challenge, especially melodic dictation—it honestly feels like a nightmare sometimes. If you have any tips or strategies that helped you improve in that area, I’d really appreciate it.

Thanks so much in advance!

B

Hi everyone!

I’m trying to decide between transferring to California State University, Northridge (CSUN) or California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA) for Piano Performance and would love some insight.

I’ve heard CSUN’s program is very traditional and rigorous, while CSULA is more flexible and may offer broader opportunities. I’m also double majoring in Music and Nursing, so finding the right balance is really important to me. I don’t mind staying an extra year or 2 for music, but I want to make sure I choose the best overall environment.

Also, does anyone know of strong classical piano instructors at CSULA? I’ve heard about Dimitri Rachmaninov at CSUN and his reputation, but I’d love to hear more about CSULA faculty. Has anyone graduated for either these universities with a BA in Music Performance (Piano)?

Thank you!

B