<p>D is having difficulty deciding between two very different schools - UMich BFA v. Connecticut College. Both schools were selected for dance opportunities combined with strong academics. She wants high level technique & performance with hopes of professional dance after college, but also interested in double major, possibly film, psychology or English.</p>
<p>Decision deadlock: Edge to Conn College for small environment. Possible edge to Mich for strength of dance program. If anyone can shed light on either program it would be appreciated.</p>
<p>D1 is ‘dual enrolled’ at UM…you didn’t say type of dance performance…UMICH is a Modern based program, ballet class every day but for dance foundation. the dance dept is small unit within the university, so really best of both worlds, a world class university with ENDLESS choices for another major, but with closs dance relationships. this year entering class was 19 one of the largest in recent history (usually around 15). Saw the Freshman Touring Company perform yesterday, it was wonderful with coreography by faculty and students, and a Laura Dean piece set on dancers! Ann Arbor is a wonderful place with lots to do, very diverse student body. D2 has comented that she likes that ‘not every one looks like her’.
Downside, very rigourous to dual enroll, will need to plan on 5 years to complete, especially if second degree is science/lab intensive. Daughter is Biochemistry and Dance, AND LOVES IT!!! Hope this helps, good luck with decision!</p>
<p>how many students apply to the UM Dance program? My D has applied and has been granted an audition, but want to prepare her for the competitive aspect, i.e. she likely will not get in.</p>
<p>For dance, Michigan has the better dance program overall. But just because it is better does not always fit the child. I would think a small LA school would be more flexible for a dual major. Good Luck.</p>
<p>I don’t know anything about Michigan, but if your d got into Conn. College, she should be proud. It has a very good reputation here in the northeast. Think about what part of the country she wants to live in for 4 years, and maybe afterwards. Think about contacts and networking. My older d is graduating next year, and she already has lines of communication opened up throughout NYC.</p>
<p>The OP posted in 2009. The thread was revived with the question in post by A353178 in post #3 about the selectivity of the UMich dance program.</p>
<p>I do not have an answer other than to say that any program that requires an audition will be competitive. Students should always be prepared to not be accepted.</p>
<p>Does your D have a list of schools rounded out with non-auditioned programs?</p>
<p>I think you mentioned on another thread that she has experience as a competition dancer. Does she have modern dance training as well? Many college dance programs are modern based.</p>