Our son was hell-bent on getting in to USC’s film school three of his four years at Choate. He founded the Choate Filmmaking Society. They were working with him to apply to colleges as an artist. He graduates from West Point in less than three months. He may be an outlier, but just putting it out there. Don’t count your chickens…
FWIW- A strong interest in something like a sport or performing arts is wonderful, but it should never be the driver when choosing a BS. My kids row ( highly competitive club racing since 7th grade ), and when they were looking at boarding schools, I’d always ask them if they’d still be happy if they stopped rowing or if ( God forbid ) got injured. I’m glad I asked because I heard no more often than yes.
Really- that was my #1 concern, because there had to be more than rowing - and each kid had to articulate what that was or could be . If they didn’t do their research or make a compelling case for a school - I wouldn’t pay the app fee because that’s how strongly I felt about it.
Yes- you’re choosing a school based on some current interests, wants and needs, but it’s equally important to confront or at least acknowledge all the possible opportunities and maybe some unknowns, too. Dive in!
Same type of exercise for people solely focused on academics for college placement. Maybe they should put more of a premium on other things such as comfort and backdrop…
What else is there? Well…
Why did I suggest Pomfret? Aside from a solid performing arts program and outstanding visual arts which is clearly evident from every vantage point - did you know that they have their own radio station and Observatory? Like a real deal Observatory! Have you seen their chapel ( which will take your breath away ) , or the iconic sundial ? Did you know that Dr. Temple Grandin is their visiting Fellow for 2019 ? - and have you seen their list of past Fellows because it’s beyond impressive, which should signal high standards and continuing quality for the future. In addition- and without really scratching the surface on everything they offer - I’ll share this piece with you because I actually knew Ben Morgan, and I think this will give you some insight into the spirit and culture that still exists there today:
MODERATOR’S NOTE: Link deleted. Blogs are not allowed.
Cool- right? If you do real research on schools- this is the type of interesting stuff you’ll discover.
Why did I suggest Berkshire? Two unrivaled signature programs like Pro Vita and the Ritt Kellogg Mountain Program! Do you want to learn how to fly a plane? Or, experience something profound and life altering in addition to solid academics and performing arts - on probably the most beautiful BS campus on earth surrounded by genuine and nice people? Culture at a BS is always subjective, but I happen to think Berkshire has one the best- which really compliments all the amazing things they have to offer. It’s a very special place… and they really do have nice kids.
Why did I suggest Tabor? I think their performing arts program is pretty amazing and they’ve put quite a bit of thought and money into it, but did you know they also have the iconic SSV Tabor Boy and nautical and marine science programs that would blow your mind- plus a stunning waterfront campus? They’re larger in size than Pomfret and Berkshire, but you’ll find a nice tight knit community feel there, and a lot of school spirit- plus endless opportunities.
And so on… Strong interest in something is great and you should absolutely look for quality programs and pursue whatever that is , but don’t look at any boarding school through a narrow lens. Dig deep and allow them to show you what else sets them apart or makes them unique.
Find a school ( a real home away from home ) that will provide the perfect backdrop to an uncharted- unscripted - four - year journey. You’ll find yourself and have the time of your life, plus you’ll leave with a foundation that you will come to rely on for the rest of your life.
IMHO- That foundation for life - not college placement - is the actual prize- and it’s available to anyone who wants it. It’s the unsung beauty of the entire experience, and it will always be there when you need it .
So … do the research, listen to your gut throughout the entire process ( including revisit days ) and the rest will take care of itself .
I promise. 
I should’ve known about the link- sorry about that! Anyone interested should just google his name w/ Pomfret. 