.jpg)
I remember feeling overwhelmed, especially on the first day of the Congress because I struggled to decide on THE presentation/workshop/ roundtable to attend amidst a dozen other concurrent sessions! On the other hand, I was extremely excited to be surrounded by so many music therapy students and professionals (especially clinicians and educators whose works I admire) from all over the world! I looked forward to the spotlight sessions every morning where topics such as cultural diversity, education and training, clinical practice, and research in music therapy are discussed. Besides learning from professionals, I had the opportunity to hear and learn from students who shared about their volunteering experiences and student organizations during the student poster session. Next, I thoroughly enjoyed the cultural programs organized by the Congress every evening, in particular the Danube/Wachau Boat Trip! The view was breathtaking and the live band got many on their feet! In retrospect, I am very honored and grateful to have been one of seven WCMT student scholarship recipients. I did not expect to experience and learn so much from the Congress. The award offered a unique and invaluable opportunity for me to expand my understanding of music therapy through research and clinical findings while meeting some incredibly passionate and dedicated music therapists and students from Australia, Columbia, India, Germany, Poland, Hong Kong and certainly Austria (just to name a few). The lessons learnt and friendships forged will not be forgotten! I look forward to reuniting with some and also making new friends at the next World Congress. Last but not least, I wish to encourage more students to stay connected with students/student delegates within and out of your region and keep updated with WFMT news for scholarship opportunities and ways to contribute to this growing field.Dawn Chik Student at Montclair State University 2014 WCMT Student Scholarship Recipient
