College Acceptances - Part 2

<p>mrsark87, you made an important point, and you did so with sensitivity. Thank you. The only thing I would note is that because -- as you say -- there are too many talented kids for the slots available in MT programs, it's really an equal-opportunity rejection business. Kids from everywhere on the economic and geographic spectra are getting rejection letters, and it hurts them all. Whether their families struggle with each and every bill, or mom & dad could write a check for four years of college without blinking, or anything in between, that 18-year-old still has to deal with the pain of rejection, the seeming lack of validation. But these kids are remarkably resilient as well as talented and motivated. I KNOW there'll be marvelous success stories from those who got into their "last" choice of school, or those who choose to do something other than college next year, as well as from those who need both hands to count their acceptances.</p>

<p>We know you and your daughter and I almost cried when I read your email. She is so lovely, talented, and such a wonderful young woman she deserved better. I'm sure that Jerry and I would love to brainstorm with you a bit. </p>

<p>Call us if you want to discuss or meet for coffee.</p>

<p>Laurie</p>

<p>Six weeks ago, when the first college acceptances arrived, I chose not to post about the decisions. This was also my daughter's wish. So, for a while I did not do so. Then it became awkward when people with whom I had shared this process with for a long time on this forum would ask on the forum what my D's outcome was as these decisions were coming out. I felt badly to just shut down and not say anything but took that option. Then my daughter said it was ok to answer and so I took that route. This particular thread is titled "college acceptances" and many have posted theirs and I frankly have relished in each and every child on here's good news cause I feel like I got to know them and am one to encourage all kids (my background as a teacher, not just a parent). I have been rooting for each and every one on here. This is such a selective process that it is bound to be way fuller of rejections than admissions. I had only hoped that ONE acceptance would come through given the odds. I did not allow myself to expect much more. And with any rejection, we did not take it personally because we knew that qualified kids get turned away when involved in such a selective process. </p>

<p>I was worried about sharing acceptances because it may make others feel badly if not getting the same result. But when so many others have posted theirs and because I have participated on this forum for 2 1/2 years, I joined in that sharing on this thread. If that has made anyone feel badly, I also then feel badly as I would not want that to happen. I am a frequent participant on the Parent Forum on CC and on THAT forum, all the parents are sharing acceptances (and rejections) and it is such a supportive group there over the years and so I am used to that process and each year we have all shared the results of this process (I had a senior daughter last year as well). </p>

<p>I know how hard it can be to read of happy news when you may not have the same news. Most on here have at least one acceptance so I think with perspective, THAT is a success. It is not a contest. There is no reward for more than one acceptance. Last year when my D got deferred Early Action to Yale, we did not dwell on any negativity and in fact, I still felt happy for the ones accepted on CC at that time. My D never took it personally because she knew going into such a selective admissions process, that NOT getting in was not a commentary as to her abilities and talents. She ended up with plenty of success and is a very very happy camper at college now (goes to Brown). My second child started off with a rejection and did not dwell on it or get jealous of anyone who got into that school. She knew what this type of college process entails and so it is to be expected to get rejected some places. All you need is to find a place where you can move forward with your training and educational goals. Most have accomplished that on this forum. </p>

<p>My heart goes out to you NewMTMom and we have met one another a few times now on this crazy audition circuit. I don't know much to suggest with American. They first notified her of acceptance to the program? And then the Admissions office denied her? The other schools don't really tell you in that fashion. You could be someone the theater department wants and then the application goes to Admissions who accepts or denies academically but you don't ever learn that the theater department had said yes on the artistic end. That is hard if one hand said yes, and you were informed of that. Then again, I guess it is not that different than at Emerson, my daughter was admitted to the college but was deferred for the BFA program and has yet to hear her outcome on that part of it. In YOUR D's case, I am not sure what you can do. IF she were deferred or waitlisted, I would have suggested that your guidance counselor make a call to advocate for her, plus your daughter writing a letter expressing her interest, her situation in her other college decisions, and updated them on her accomplishments. With the denial status, I am not sure what recourse you have but you could still try those methods. Keep trying on that front but in the meantime, think of Plan B. I am going to suggest one of many options out there for your daughter.....I would see if she can apply to Circle in the Square Theater Program in NYC. It is a two year certificate program that is well regarded in the industry. While it is not the same as a four year college program, it is kinda like a two year conservatory style program with professional style training. After this program, she could transfer into a BA or BFA program with much training under her belt. She has not been in this field that many years yet and this added training, which is post high school will be just the boost she might benefit from. I can vouch for two of the faculty members, one voice, one acting, who happen to split their time between their home/family in VT and their faculty positions at CITS in NYC. These two are my D's voice and acting teacher in VT and are truly exceptional. If the rest of the program is of that caliber, you are looking at a very good option for your daughter. Another option is a gap year where maybe she can intern in this field, continue to take lessons/classes, and reaudition next year. She also could spend a year doing theater locally and reaudition next year. She could go to a state university if some have rolling admissions and keep honing her theater skills and then transfer and have these credits to boot. I think there are some good options out there for her.....going to Drake is one of them! I know it is very very hard as a parent to see your child hurting or disappointed. But I KNOW something very good will work out. You are one very supportive mom and you will help her find the next steps to realizing her potential. It is very hard for a parent to not be able to make things "right" for their kids. Believe me, I know, after ALL I have been through in the past three weeks (so far) watching my child suffer and be in pain and at risk. There are better days ahead and she will be a better person because of it (I am talking of YOUR daughter but could say the same of mine after her serious ordeal as of late). </p>

<p>Hugs to you all and be proud of each of the accomplishments your kids have garnered because I feel proud of them and I don't even know them! I hope we can continue to share successes and challenges on this forum because it is a very supportive group of folks. </p>

<p>Susan</p>

<p>Newmtmom--I really feel for you and your D right now. I sent you an email with my 2 cents.</p>

<p>Midgetmom--The "what ifs" are harder on us than on our kids, I think. It sounds like your D will rise to the top wherever she is, take what she needs, and then will get where she needs to be eventually (Broadway, I guess). Sometimes hardships do come in other packages than financial--or WITH financial burdens. I'm sure we all, in differing amounts, have our own special circumstances (oftentimes health problems) to overcome in our families. I know we do in our family.</p>

<p>Susan, thanks for the tip about Circle in the Square. That's exactly the sort of thing that I think we need to check out. My D also has to visit Drake. For all we know it's an excellent program. And you are exactly right about my D, she is very inexperienced compared to some. And as she gains more experience and knowledge she'll find out whether or not she is competitive.</p>

<p>And you are also right that this thread was started to list acceptances--and you should be able to crow a little and express your pride and delight. Frankly, I'm glad to hear of acceptances. I do not rejoice when I hear of someone else not getting in. And if my congratulations have a little envy in them, well, that's my problem. Besides, college is only one step of what I hope will be long and fulfilling lives. My D is finding this step a bit hard, but she'll learn.</p>

<p>So keep posting those acceptances and awards.</p>

<p>It was never my intention to start a problem on this forum. Far from it. I actually found this forum from another forum where a poster had sent everybody the link when Soozievt's daughter was hurt. I didn't realize I'd be getting into something I'd end up feeling so horrible about.</p>

<p>Yes, of course this thread is entitled "College Acceptances", and everybody here is anxious to post their good news about their acceptances. I just think in some ways it's gone "over the top". Yes, we should be allowed to crow a little in light of our children's accomplishments. After all, for most of us, we're the wind beneath their wings and should be able to take at least some of the credit for their successes. On the other hand, however, it's been difficult for some of us to hear about so many acceptances, especially from one or two people. For some of us, reading about these special kids have left a lot of doubt with regard to our own children.</p>

<p>To keep everything in perspective, I wonder if everybody would be willing to start another thread with regard to their children's accomplishments and education to date. I don't mean posting resumes and/or revealing cities and/or states. But, it would be helpful to some of us if we saw the kind of experiences some of these very successful kids have had and to compare them with out own children. </p>

<p>What do you all think?</p>

<p>Midgetmom says: "To keep everything in perspective, I wonder if everybody would be willing to start another thread with regard to their children's accomplishments and education to date. I don't mean posting resumes and/or revealing cities and/or states. But, it would be helpful to some of us if we saw the kind of experiences some of these very successful kids have had and to compare them with out own children. </p>

<p>What do you all think? "</p>

<p>I think it's a better idea to let people share their successes on this college acceptance thread and that people who aren't interested don't need to read it. To start comparing histories with acceptances is bound to create more hurt feelings. I hope you don't think my bluntness is rude, but why, Midgetmom are you posting on a thread entitled "College Acceptances" and asking people to tone it down? I have no idea how my D will fare next year when she's auditioning, but I am happy to read of others' happy news. If I didn't want to hear it, I wouldn't read this thread.</p>

<p>I say, bring on the good news, guys! Don't let other people bring you down. You can be humble on the other threads. This thread is for you!</p>

<p>"I hope you don't think my bluntness is rude, but why, Midgetmom are you posting on a thread entitled "College Acceptances" and asking people to tone it down?"</p>

<p>Woah!!!!!!!!!!!!! I do think your bluntness is rude and NEVER insinuated that people shouldn't be happy in posting about their children's acceptances. I'm just trying to come to grips with my child's rejection and see where she stands with regard to others who have been so successful.</p>

<p>My family has had a passion for musical theater since the days of Noah, and I've always enjoyed hearing about the successes of others....to give you a small example.......I am a former music director for a children's theater camp where several children were more successful than my child, yet I had to give them private voice lessons and relish their successes when they were cast over my child. The passion of the business kept me going, as did the determination of my own child to do her best.</p>

<p>My only desire to start another thread was to see where some of these kids lie with regard to my own. No think otherwise would be totally erroneous.</p>

<p>oh my goodness, no one is trying to bring anyone down. just asking for consideration for all who are reading. we all enjoy this thread. we all enjoy commiserating, as well as celebrating together. and i am so sincerely happy for all the good news shared. that's why i read this thread and have every right to read it. everyone has the right to be happy and joyous in their good news. but, there's nothing wrong with a little compassion and consideration. my goodness, how could any parent after going through this ordeal want to even approach bluntness with another parent who is asking for nothing more than consideration. believe me, mtmommy, i certainly don't want to offend you in any way, but, next year, when your son or daughter is sitting in front of you with tears streaming down their face after reading one of those letters, you may have a different perspective. of course, you'll support and be happy for all those getting good news. but, believe me, it will be hard to read those posts that are a little over the top with all their acceptances. i think these are mostly the kids, themselves. but, it's still a little painful. that doesn't mean, however, that you don't want to read the posts. you're still interested and supportive, but, it still hurts your heart. btw, there is a "bragging thread" that might be interesting to re-visit with the info that midgetmom was mentioning. i think she's interested in seeing what experiences everyone has had and looking at whether these different experiences and training have an effect on the audition process and it's success. it's just a learning process. we're just all out here alone, stumbling along trying to figure out the best route for our kids. and this forum gives us a chance to learn from each other. i think that's her purpose in asking for past accomplishments and training levels. jamie</p>

<p>Midgetmom and Mrsark--DON'T READ THIS THREAD if you're going to be hurt by it. You are both being insensitive to those who have gotten into programs that they worked hard for. I will be rude: STOP POSTING YOUR REQUESTS FOR COMMISERATION ON THIS THREAD. I am thankful that my kids haven't HAD to have taken voice lessons from Midgetmom ("yet I had to give them private voice lessons and relish their successes when they were cast over my child") and witness her begrudingly "relish their successes." You want commiseration, then be nice to others, too. You are not being nice to kids that are posting their acceptances on here--or the proud parents either. And thank you, Mrsark, for wishing my D well for next year, too. And, furthermore, Midgetmom, IMO, you were totally extremely insensitive to Soozievt who has been through a whole lot in the past month.</p>

<p>newmtmom:</p>

<p>The Interlochen Arts Academy is a boarding high school. However, they do have a post-graduate year for people who aren't going to college. and being that they have a theater program, i believe they have a post-grad year for theater.</p>

<p>It may be too late. It may not be. I don't know.</p>

<p>But nothing ventured, nothing gained.
<a href="http://www.interlochen.com%5B/url%5D"&gt;www.interlochen.com&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p>

<p>newmtmom and mtmommy - you are right.<br>
This is a "college acceptance thread" so please continue to post that information. There are plenty of other threads (including starting a new one) for people that have other concerns, questions and interests.</p>

<p>I have been reading this thread for almost a year. I found it right after my d2 had decided where she was going to school. I would have loved to have found it even a few months earlier.
There are several names that have been posting long before I arrived. Some of these have gone through the audition process this year - all with different results. </p>

<p>One of the main reasons I became active on this forum was I thought maybe I could be of some help after having gone through this with 2d's. But more importantly, I really began to admire many of these moms, students, etc.
They were so SUPPORTIVE of one another. They took the time to help, to suggest, to compliment, and inform people with whom they shared similar interests. In a field where competition can sometimes rule - these people were like family. I could talk about a dozen or more.of these people but for right now, I am going to concentrate on one in particular. There is a woman who has over 1,000 posts. If anybody wants to take the time, I believe that we would find that probably two-thirds or more of her posts have been in support of so many others on this board. She is so kind and caring and you know when she says she is proud of someone, or congratulates or offers help - she really means it.
So few of her posts have been specifically about her own d's. She has been an advocate for everyone on this forum and I for one want to hear about every acceptance, opportunity and scholarship that her d has been offered.
And I think I speak for the majority!</p>

<p>I wholeheartedly agree!</p>

<p>Wow, this thread has really gotten ugly with the apparent jealousy shown. This thread is supposed to be about college acceptances! It's not bragging, it's just telling the rest of us who have been following these kids for a year or more and have learned SO MUCH from the frequent postings of some of the others who have been SO HELPFUL to those of us who have younger kids (mine is only a sophomore). We as parents certainly feel the pain our children live through in this very competitive business they have chosen to love, but let's try to be happy for others' successes. My own D has not had to deal with college auditions yet, but just last night had the latest of heartbreaks and all I could do was hold her as she cried and reaffirm that she is talented and driven and we think she's wonderful. (She was cast as Tuptim in a local production of King and I- the biggest part she has ever had, and the theater called last night to tell her that they had a last minute snafu of some sort and weren't able to get the rights so they are cancelling the show entirely. Being Asian, and often being "not right for the part" she has learned to live with some of that, but here was the PERFECT part for her, and she is crushed!) But anyway, my point is that it is never going to be easy to watch our children suffer in this field, but I have to think that we will all suffer less if we rejoice in the successes of others instead of dwelling on the down sides or becoming defensive about why our choices were made, or needing to defend our children's talents to others. There are many, many, talented kids. They are all unique. They have all chosen this crazy musical theater business. They all need to learn to live with the ups and downs. We as parents do to. Let us get back to the intent of this thread which was to learn of the college acceptances of those who post here.</p>

<p>I echo a lot of sentiments when I say that yes, there are those at a bigger advantage financially in terms of training or traveling. However, I don't believe for a second that this puts kids at the degree of advantage suggested. Also, one shouldn't assume that because the parents have money, the kids get a free ride. I have a friend who is from a wealthy family but works three days a week to pay for a lot of things. </p>

<p>Yes, I have been lucky enough to have parents who support my career. I have been able to travel out of province several times to audition. We laid this out very early, and I had to make some tough choices as to where I wanted to audition, trying to schedule some on the same weekend so as to avoid extra expense. When we had to make an unplanned trip, I paid for it-- over a thousand dollars of my own savings for a ten minute audition. </p>

<p>There is one (extracurricular) drama school in my city. I attend one of the best PUBLIC schools in the country, but only because I was lucky enough to live in the area. I've worked my butt off this year and devote almost every waking hour to academics or extracurriculars. My school's department is not strong at all. I had an excellent discussion with the Artistic Director of the after school drama school I attended. She explained that many students lack motivation. I agreed. If one is truly motivated, he or she can find "a way". I agree wholeheartedly that sometimes that "way" is more difficult to find, but one can find it. If my drama school hadn't existed, I would have found someone, eventually, to help me, because I wanted what I wanted so badly. I realize that my parents and grandfather are making HUGE sacrifices to send me to the school of my dreams. I will be working as much as I can to make a dent into my expenses. </p>

<p>The irony is, no matter where we all end up, this profession can be a great equalizer. Strange things happen all the time. I know someone who was sent a breakdown from his agent which asked for a "M.L Type" (his name). He went in, auditioned, and didn't get the part. This is the field where a girl could accidentally kick a soccer ball at an auditioner and get the part because the auditioners liked her "spunk". At the same time, this is a field where some people form better connections and get the roles as a result. This is a field where people go to questionable lengths to secure employment. I don't want to sound jaded at seventeen, but, unfortunate as it is, fairness isn't an idea so often associated with "The Biz". </p>

<p>I am fortunate to have found my match and made it happen. Had I not made it in, however, I wouldn't have equated it to the end of the world by any means. I found the most amazing teacher and role model of my life in a public high school with a weak drama program (not her fault by any means!) No doubt I would not be where I am were it not for her support, guidance and friendship. These people often turn up in the most unlikely places, which is why I would be optimistic wherever I went. </p>

<p>As someone told me at an audition today, "You have SO much time!" It's true. Had I not gotten into anywhere this year, I'd probably pick up a backpack and travel for a few weeks. Who knows? Maybe I'd bump into the director of my dream school at a gelato store in Italy or in the elevator at the CN tower. Maybe I'd end up working in my hometown and have a casting director order a double cheeseburger from me.</p>

<p>Opportunity isn't what people lay out for you-- it's what you create. </p>

<p>*--R</p>

<p>Hi, my lovelies. Notarebel and I are going to compile a list of current acceptances as listed on this and the first "College Acceptances" thread. We will include it in a new "HAPPY College Acceptances" thread when we finish. We will also start a Rejections/Commisserations thread though we will only post our own. It's a rainy Saturday night. What the heck ... Just please keep the new acceptance thread to happy news and congratulations. I think most of us who have been around for awhile will appreciate it. :)</p>

<p>I really don't think that's necessary. I think those of us who have had to deal with rejections are trying our best to do just that. Today's posts have been difficult, for sure, but we'll get over them, dust ourselves off and help our children reach their dreams.</p>

<p>To MtMommy--You have no idea what you are talking about. I've e-mailed Soozievt several times and have gotten to know her a little better. To say I've been rude to her during her time of need in light of her d's accident is unfounded. Again, you don't know what you're talking about. And, with regard to my being a voice teacher......I've had a lot of very talented kids come my way and I've done nothing but help them, wholeheartedly, I may add. Believe me, if I didn't want to help them, I wouldn't have. You've totally taken my post the wrong way. Re-read all of my posts without the emotion and you might see them differently.</p>

<p>To NYDanceMom--Sure, there is a bit of jealousy regarding hearing about everybody's successes. How could there not be? We're all here for the same thing and everybody wants the best for their children. It doesn't mean I don't care. I'm trying to come to grips with my own child. If you look read further, you'll see she was accepted as a vocal performance major. She's not without talent. And, given what just happened with your child and The King and I, I would think you'd be a little more sensitive to those of us who are having to deal with heartbroken kids. BTW--I'll say a prayer for your d tonight that Our Lord will give her the understanding she'll need as to why this play didn't happen for her.</p>

<p>To Soozievt--I've e-mailed you privately.</p>

<p>To Studio 7: You suggested a new thread where "other concerns" could be raised. Isn't that the EXACT thing I suggested a few posts up? </p>

<p>God bless to everybody. This world is too full of turmoil right now to have this ensue on a musical theater forum. My posts weren't meant to start WWIII, but to help me and my child understand what happened to her.</p>

<p>I will only ask again that people remember that although it's very fast and easy to write and post, this is a very difficult medium with which to communicate. It's also clear to me that there are real cultural differences amongst us, which means that although we are all using American English, we don't all use it the same way. I don't think anyone has to justify their feelings to anyone else here. I do think we should all write in a respectful manner. And I don't think we should try to put anyone down in order to put ourselves up. I for one apologize if I have offended anyone here because it's not my intention.</p>

<p>I also want to complement the kids. Some of your comments have been so insightful and show such a mature attitude--I hope you show that side to your parents so they can know what wonderful children they have.</p>

<p>My D gets very annoyed with me sometimes and rightfully reminds me that it is her life and she has the right to make her own mistakes.</p>

<p>This is a stressful time for some and joyous for others and both for still others. So let's just take a deep breath, acknowledge mistakes and go on. This thread is like a family and how can there not be ruffled feathers.
So much for my rambling</p>

<p>Broadway wannabe--thanks for the tip and link. I'm going to check it out.</p>

<p>Please keep posting both the positive and negative news from the colleges here. I have been following this with much interest and anticipation for next year. It helps to know when the colleges notify people. It will also be helpful next year to know such things as when the colleges call the people accepted. My son wants to audition for many programs next year - and I'm trying to figure out how to work them all in AND pay for the trips! It will be good to hear the positive news of others even if that means knowing we have been rejected. We could be in the same boat next year with all reject's, but at least we'll be informed of the timing of each college's process. We also plan for him to apply to 2 non-audition schools both of which we were very impressed with.</p>