 He began to save for study at Cornell University, where he began as a medical student; but after some time, while working at all-night car-washes where he sang to himself for pleasure, he transferred to an arts course to major in languages and music.Aware of his fine baritone voice, he joined the Cornell Glee Club and soon distinguished himself as a soloist in university recitals.In his last year he was invited to sing at the White House, entertaining presidential guests after dinner.