BWW Blog: Finding the Right College Theatre Program for You

It's that time of year when every high school senior and aspiring transfer student is making their final decisions about where to apply. Choosing a college can be a daunting process and it can be very difficult to know if you are making the right choice, so here are some things I've learned along the way and how I ultimately picked my school.

1. Go where it's warm

I go to college in Boston, so obviously I don't mean literally. What I mean is examine a theatre program's culture. You want to pick a school that feels right to you, and that means somewhere you feel you will be surrounded by people who share your artistic ethos and are willing to challenge you, but not change you. You should think the people are nice! Meet with the department head, talk to real students, ask the tough questions like "What are your graduates doing?" "Why is this school different, what can you offer me that will help me grow?" Don't pick a school based on a name, pick it because you feel like the people you are learning from, both your peers and professors, want you to grow and care about you as an artist.

2. Decide on a BFA or a BA

I applied to a mix and ultimately chose a BA school, but a degree is not one-size-fits all. Do the research, find out what each degree gives you over the other. BOTH ARE VALUABLE.

3. Apply to schools you actually like

Don't waste your time-it's too valuable! Apply to schools you generally want to attend. Safety schools are great and necessary, but make sure you still like them! Apply to your dream school but don't fixate on it. A lot of times dreams change over time. Who you are when you apply to college in the Fall may change when you get your acceptance letters. Be prepared-take calculated risks and remain open-minded through the process.

4. You are your own advocate

If there are schools you love, don't wait until you get your acceptance letter to love them. Pay them a visit and contact a student or faculty representative. Ask thoughtful questions. It goes a long way to know how interested someone is in a school. It's not just a myth. You can't control acceptance letters even if you are very qualified, but you can do everything in your power to help yourself. This is a good lesson before college in general: Don't be afraid to ask for help! There are people willing to help, always! Before that college audition, or clicking send on that essay, maybe call the department for some tips or ask about what kinds of students they feel fit best in their program.

5. Love the college and the theatre program

While you may love the theatre program, recognize that you may want access to more things on campus. Do you want to study abroad, pursue a minor, join a frat or sorority? Find out what the school has to offer in addition to their theatre program. You spend a lot of time on campus, and it is extremely important to have access to passions and activities beyond just theatre. Other activities can shape you as an artist just as much as that Acting 1 class.

6. Have fun and take it all in

This is the closest you will (probably) ever get to being sorted into a Hogwarts House. Remember, you have some control. The college process can be flawed and difficult to navigate, but it's also a lot of fun. It's deciding on a new chapter of your life. Not only that, as artists, you're choosing where you want to grow. Attending college for theatre is your time to make a mess. Take risks. Have fun. May the odds be ever in your favor.

Before you know it, you'll only have a year and half until graduation. Time flies when you're having fun.

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