At The University of Texas Permian Basin, students are gaining real-world experience through service-learning that extends far beyond the classroom.
“I loved that I was able to see the impact music has on the community,” UTPB student Daniela Salinas said after completing her recent project.
UTPB’s Music Department has led its “Community Music Day” initiative for many years. This spring, 38 music majors visited Bynum School to work with special-needs students alongside a music therapist.
“The service-learning partnership between UTPB Music and Bynum School provides meaningful benefits for both groups by pairing applied learning with community impact,” Eric Baker, Director of Community Engagement in Music and Visual Arts, said. “Ultimately, the project creates an environment where UTPB students grow as educators and leaders while Bynum students experience increased engagement, confidence, and community connection.”
Daniela has participated in the project twice and said each experience has been impactful. As a student, she noted it is easy to get wrapped up in practicing and assignments, but this experience helps her see how music can support focus, connection, and emotional expression.
“We have the privilege to positively impact the students, but honestly, I believe they help us more,” Daniela said. “Seeing the diversity of music and how it can be catered to different people really brings purpose to what we do as music educators.”
Eric said he consistently hears powerful reflections from students, including moments like a nonverbal student expressing joy through sound after engaging with music. He also noted lasting progress seen in students’ communication and interaction skills over time.
At UTPB, faculty emphasize hands-on learning that prepares students for life beyond the classroom. Experiences like this demonstrate the impact students can make in the community while growing as future educators and leaders.
