LOS ANGELES — A group of Middle Tennessee State University students found themselves in the global spotlight this week, stepping onto the red carpet in Los Angeles as part of the university’s annual Grammy Awards experience.

The students and faculty were in Southern California for Middle Tennessee State University’s 12th consecutive Grammy trip when they attended the MusiCares 2026 Person of the Year gala on Friday, Jan. 30. The high-profile event honored global music icon Mariah Carey and is one of the most prestigious lead-up celebrations to the Grammy Awards.

Joining the students on the red carpet were MTSU President Sidney A. McPhee and Beverly Keel, dean of the university’s Scott Borchetta College of Media and Entertainment. Six students from music, audio production, songwriting, and journalism programs were selected for the immersive, career-focused trip.

According to faculty leaders, the annual journey is designed to place students directly inside the professional music industry, offering networking opportunities, hands-on experience, and exposure to events many aspiring artists and industry professionals only dream of attending.

For the students, the experience has already been described as surreal and career-affirming. Several noted that being present at Grammy-week events provided not only inspiration but also tangible insight into how the music business operates at the highest level.

The delegation is also taking part in industry meetings, alumni visits, and educational events across Los Angeles ahead of Sunday’s 68th annual Grammy Awards. The Scott Borchetta College will additionally host its annual pre-Grammy celebration brunch in Hollywood, continuing a tradition that connects students with industry leaders and supporters.

MusiCares, the charitable arm of the Recording Academy, recognized Carey at the gala for both her decades-long musical career and her commitment to humanitarian efforts within the music community. The event was held at the Los Angeles Convention Center and is considered one of Grammy Week’s signature gatherings.

The MTSU Grammy trip has become a hallmark opportunity for students pursuing careers in music, media, and entertainment — blending classroom learning with real-world, red-carpet access on one of the industry’s biggest stages.