RUNNING START
Dedicated staff help students find the resources they need to prepare them to creatively channel their passions into vibrant careers.
Explore Running StartDedicated staff help students find the resources they need to prepare them to creatively channel their passions into vibrant careers.
Explore Running StartWhat is the Running Start Office?
The Running Start Office is your curated career services and entrepreneurship office. Run by musicians for musicians to help you pursue your career, no matter what field you’re looking into!
Running Start prepares students to creatively channel their passions into vibrant careers by providing:
- career advising appointments
- online career resources
- workshops & masterclasses
- funding & grants
- opportunities in music (performance, teaching, internships, etc.)
- engagement and networking
- AND MORE!
Upcoming Career Events and Workshops
Running Start hosts a number of group intensives, guest artist workshops, and other events throughout the academic year. Presenters include faculty members, guests, and alumni. Events and workshops cover topics essential to young performers and teachers, including self-promotion, resume-writing, building a private studio, constructing a teaching philosophy, planning engaging, audience-friendly programs, and more!
Registration on Handshake is required for all workshops unless separate registration link is noted in the event listings below. To search Music workshops on Handshake, go to the workshops tab and use the keyword “MUS.”
Check out these QUICK LINKS to upcoming events, workshops, and career development opportunities!
Upcoming Events
Join the Running Start Office and Music Faculty Kenneth Thompkins and Chance Huiet for an audition prep and success workshop! Ask your questions about auditioning for professional ensembles, grab some great handouts, and join an interactive experience to build your confidence before your next big audition!
TIME AND LOCATION TBD
Session 2 – Tax Tracking Tips: keep better track of income and expenses, what it means to “write something off,” setting up business accounts, writing contracts / invoices, and more! Featuring guest speaker MSU College of Music alum. Chad Rehman (composer)
FREE SNACKS
Content is primarily focused on music / musicians, however the information is easily transferrable to students pursuing any creative careers!
Join Running Start and the MSU Writing Center for the final drop-in advising hour for grad school application materials! Bring your CVs, personal statements, statement of purpose, and other required written application materials for review.
News & Announcements
Successes and Outcomes: The 2026 Annual Report
Read the 2025-2026 Annual Report and discover how Running Start is fueling music careers and sparking innovation across the College of Music.
View PDFContact Us / Follow Running Start
Sign Up for an Advising Appointment via Handshake
Emily Henley – henleyem@msu.edu
Follow us on socials!
The Running Start Program is supported by Dortha J. and John D. Withrow Career Building Endowment in the College of Music and the MSU Federal Credit Union Entrepreneurial Musical Artist in Residence Endowment. Special thanks to the MSU Federal Credit Union for their support of other Running Start programs, including the Running Start Competition and Ed Engagement Residency.