The Undergraduate Scholar Award was established by The Presser Foundation to celebrate undergraduate music students who have achieved a high level of musical and academic excellence, demonstrated leadership and service, and contributed to an inclusive community.
Each year, one student in their final year at hundreds of higher education institutions across the country is chosen as the recipient of the Award. As part of the Award, the student receives $3,000 to use as they wish and carries the honor of being known as a Presser Scholar for the rest of their life.
Aaliyah Ragland, a music major focused on music industry and production, received the 2024-25 Undergraduate Scholar Award from University of California, Riverside. Learn more about her background, her passion for music production, and how she is using the funds from the Award to further her career.
Background
I grew up surrounded by music. I played piano with my mom as a toddler and watched my dad install sound systems in his cars. In elementary school, I picked up the flute and joined the school band. I soon found myself experimenting with instruments at Sam Ash and performing in every ensemble my high school offered. I played in marching band, wind ensemble, jazz band, and winter percussion. Today, as a college graduate, I carry that same love for music by playing guitar in a local community ensemble.
Love for Music
I love that music has so many parts to it. Every song has different parts and instruments to latch on and listen to. Music production gave me the ability to do what I always wanted; arrange and create music. I always wanted to be on the team that created music. Whether that’d be a music producer, songwriter, or a performer! When I was looking for a university to transfer to and continue my studies, I found the most support from the professors at UC Riverside. The professors believed in me, and taught me to believe in myself too.
While in school, I volunteered my skills as an audio engineer, helped my friends by performing on their tracks, and worked as a front of house engineer at UC Riverside University Theatre. Guiding and working on music productions has always been my passion, and I make an effort every day to continue learning and building skills across the stage, page, and edit window.
Academic Excellence
I have dedicated myself to music through both academics and real-world experience by working at my local theater, volunteering for music recording opportunities, and learning to play multiple instruments. I’ve immersed myself in the music industry and consistently work to develop a well-rounded skill set.
Academically, I challenged myself by taking a variety of courses related to my major, including graduate-level music classes as an undergraduate. I also took courses unrelated to music, such as statistics, economics, and entrepreneurship. This blend of hands-on experience and advanced coursework has equipped me with a strong foundation in composition, songwriting, and audio engineering. In all, these experiences have given me skills and discipline needed to excel in both my musical and academic studies.
I also attended music conventions and visit music stores to test new equipment and instruments, which allowed me to make connections and learn industry trends.
Leadership
At my community college, I worked as a peer mentor for music students, offering guidance on courses, resources, and sharing insights into the music industry. Having felt isolated despite being part of a music community, I made it my mission to support my peers and ease their worries about exclusion. I also worked as a music education assistant and supported students with music reading and transposing their music, strengthening my teaching skills.
At UCR, I encouraged students interested in music and recording to join my university’s club for music industry-oriented students. I worked hard to share insights on music with fellow students and proactively addressed issues to ease the burden on my professors and directors. Through these experiences, I’ve remained committed to contributing to a positive learning environment.
Contributing to an Inclusive Community
Having personally faced exclusion, unfair, and biased treatment, I am deeply committed to participating and fostering an inclusive community in my everyday life. I try to work with individuals from all backgrounds and demographics, ensuring that everyone feels support and value. I actively embody equity and inclusion in all aspects of my life. From collaborating with peers, educating myself on different cultures, and adjusting my vocabulary, I strive to be welcoming. I also actively speak against exclusion whenever I encounter it.
Impact of Award
I am using the funds from the Presser Undergraduate Scholar Award to purchase sound treatment equipment and microphones, invest in notation and mastering software, and attend music industry networking events. More than just building a studio, my goal is to create a space where people like me feel can feel confident and free to create!
Music has been an upward battle to pursue. I wasn’t always supported in my musical endeavors and have had my fair share of adversity. Receiving this Award proves that I can be successful in music, despite every turn being a test of my strength and willpower to stay in music.
