Hi- I do ballet (four times a week, around 8 hours a week not including rehearsals) and though I’m not an aspiring ballerina, I’d say I’m moderately good (depending on who we’re comparing). I’m applying to B.S. for 2017-18. Does anyone know if being a dancer might affect my chances of getting in because it’s not that common like soccer or football? Also, if anyone could tell me a bit about some of the dance programs, that would be great- I know St. Paul’s has a huge ballet program.
It could give you a little boost for schools with the more robust dance programs, like SPS. Make sure when you are arranging campus visits/interviews, that you reach out to the directors of the dance programs. Most will invite you to come to a class to observe and be observed.
Ballet unfortunately would not be considered a major “hook” yet it might have a small impact on your chances.
Good luck for M10!
Ballet is good, it is considered an extra-curricular activity. For it to be a real ‘hook’ it would need to be an activity where the school has a deficit of attractive candidates. Typical hooks include: under-represented minority status, or a star athletic recruit.
My youngest prep school DC is graduating college so I am a little dated. However, dance teachers at many BS have “preference lists” that go to admissions just like sports coaches. Being at the top of that list definitely can be a hook. My D1 likely got her admit due to that specific situation.
However, just like for the sports teams getting on that list requires an unusually high level of accomplishment. My D1 was dancing much more than 8 hours a week, had performed in several years of professional nutcrackers, was part of two amateur dance ensembles, and attended several years of well known summer intensive programs. Ballet is a good EC for your app even when it is not a hook. Interview with the dance teacher and observe or participate in a class when you visit.