Haley Mai

Pronouns Used: She/her/hers

Languages Spoken (other than English): Mandarin Chinese

Hometown: Henan, China

Principal Instrument: Cello

Majors: Music Therapy

Minor(s): Sociology

Describe your favorite Berklee experience so far.

My favorite Berklee experience so far has been meeting so many amazing people. I've made wonderful friends from all over the world and had the chance to get to know so many talented musicians. Those friendships have become one of the most meaningful parts of my Berklee experience.

When you think about your favorite class so far, what is one example of why you enjoyed it?

One of my favorite classes so far has been my Music Therapy Methods course because it taught us how to use recreative and compositional methods in clinical practice. The class not only helped me develop the skills to recreate and compose songs, but also showed me how to apply those techniques in real therapeutic settings. One of my favorite parts was composing short songs and facilitating songwriting activities. Seeing everyone contribute their ideas and create something together made me realize how powerful music can be in bringing people together and supporting the therapeutic process. I also enjoyed observing how music could encourage creativity, self-expression, and meaningful connections.

What is your favorite part about studying and living in Boston? 

My favorite part about living in Boston is that I love how green the city is. There are lots of parks and trees, which makes it feel peaceful and refreshing. Being surrounded by both nature and education creates a really inspiring environment to study and live in. I also love being able to live so close to my friends. So we can easily hang out, collaborate, and support each other.

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone applying to Berklee College of Music or Boston Conservatory at Berklee?

Embrace the journey and everything that comes with it. Be brave, be curious, stay open-minded, and enjoy the journey. Be your authentic self. And trust yourself.

Where is your favorite place on campus?

7 Haviland's front yard! I spend most of my time in this building.

Why did you choose Berklee?

I chose Berklee because I wanted the unique experience of attending a music school. I knew it would be very different from a traditional university, where everyone shares the same passion for music—and being able to learn in a creative environment.

What are your plans for after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to pursue my career in music therapy. My goal is not only to work as a music therapist but also to help more people understand what music therapy is and how it can support their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I hope to raise awareness so that more people can use music therapy as a valuable tool in their lives whenever they need it.

What have you enjoyed most about the live shows you’ve been involved in at Berklee?

What I've enjoyed most about the live shows at Berklee is the connection you can feel during a performance. Whether I'm performing or supporting an event behind the scenes, it's amazing to see how music brings people together.

Where do you hope to perform this coming year?

Definitely the Berklee Performance Center, Symphony Hall, and Calderwood Hall—it's inside of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Its square design is so cool!