Greg Dampier
As a transfer student searching for music programs across the country, Belmont quickly became the prime choice from various aspects that were most important to me in my decision-making process.I ultimately chose Belmont for its prestigious music program. When I decided to transfer from my previous college, I wanted to pursue a music degree at a school with a strong commercial music program. 
A friend and Belmont Alum told me about the program here and how beneficial the studies and applications experienced through Belmont relates so well to the working field as a musician. The chances to perform and learn extensively of the many genres of commercial music here really stood out from an academic standpoint. The faculty here stand tall among any in the nation and most have experience in the field as a performer, teacher, composer, and etc. For me, this educational atmosphere is exactly what I want to be a part of. Just to have the opportunity to receive private lessons from someone who is very knowledgeable and actively working in the field as a performer was a giant pull for me. You are also surrounded by very talented fellow students, which only accelerates the desire to learn.
Belmont is also located in what I feel is the right place for me. My personal goal is to succeed as a studio musician, and what better place to be than Music City! I listen and perform various genres of music, but especially country and Christian music, so being practically beside music row where such session work occurs is enticing.
Also, Belmont has so many ties into the music industry that there are possibilities of networking and landing a gig, or at least grab a chance to get your feet wet in the field. The other major factor for me is Belmont's foundation as a Christian environment. The chance to attend a renown music school that is also a part of Christian-based atmosphere really serves as an encouragement for myself as a student to excel.
As for recommending Belmont to future students, I would include all of these reasons and my favorite attribute about the school's friendly environment. Since Belmont is a smaller size school, the chances to meet fellow students and network with those in other majors, such as music business, is much higher than with a large university. One can better know professors and other students with Belmont's size, which is a major plus. Just knowing that who you meet now may one day be working in the music field, possibly as a recording artist gives enough reason to network now. Who knows, knowing such a person while in school could pay off greatly in the future, so you never know. Belmont just blends together all the right elements of a strong university, Christian atmosphere, and superb music department into the perfect place for me to finish my education.
Greg Dampier, Commercial Music Performance, Transfer student
