FSU Student’s Journey Shows Value of a Degree
posted by Laura M. Bell | April 6, 2017 | In Arts and CultureMusician Tamara Batts was playing for several gospel national recording artists as a keyboardist, when she learned that she could have earned more money for the same exact job if she only had a bachelor’s degree.
While performing Batts was paid well. She was able to payback all of her student loans that she had accrued while attending school in 2001. When she learned that she was paid less than other artists just because she didn’t have a music degree, she was upset. She knew she had to finish her degree just so she can get paid.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, those with an undergraduate degree make at least one million dollars more over a lifetime compared those who only have a high school diploma.
Batts, 34, plays multiple instruments including: piano, keyboard, organ, drums, currently learning to play bass guitar as well as sing.
“I’ve loved music all of my life, and I’m almost 35! I probably wouldn’t be sane if I didn’t have music,” Batts said.
Batts began her college career at Fayetteville State University in 2001 studying psychology. Her degree path was disrupted before completion when she was deployed with the U.S. Army. Upon returning home, Batts decided to re-enter school. Financial aid, however, wanted her to include her parents’ income, so finishing her degree at that time wasn’t a viable option.
The break from school afforded Batts the opportunity to go on tour with her craft. She was grateful for the chance. She says her greatest accomplishment was playing for national recording gospel artist Hezekiah Walker.
She played for other gospel musicians including: William McDowell, Maurette Brown Clark, and local artist Dr. Larry Reid.
There are even YouTube videos where you can hear Batts play her instrument of choice, a Kronos 88 Key.
Batts decided to return to school in 2014 to pursue a degree in music. She was able to keep her college credits from her previous enrollment at Fayetteville State University, and she now has 45 credits to finish her degree with a major in music with a minor in psychology.
Music is still saturating Batts’ life. She sings second alto in FSU’s Concert Choir. She teaches private music lessons at The Cape Fear Music Center. She is also the music minister at Whomsoever Will Let Them Church of God. Batts is also a vocal coach, which she says is different than offering singing lessons.
Vocal coaches help already established singers, Batts explained. She helps bring chills to her clients’ listeners.
“I’m a “feel it” musician. I don’t read notes. I feel the music, play the music, so you can feel the music. If I feel it, then you’ll feel it,” Batts explained.
Her goals for after graduation are simple. She wants to do exactly what she was doing before, but she wants to get properly paid for her work.
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