Hello! I have finally received the last of my college decisions, and now I am struggling quite a bit to make a decision. I know that deciding on a college is a very personal decision, and that finances and other personal matters are vital to the decision, but I would really appreciate some general opinions about my college choice. I am interested in pursuing a degree in theatre, and here are my options:
-University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (BFA Acting)
-Miami University (BA Theatre)
-Ball State University (BA Theatrical Arts with possible transfer to BFA Acting during freshman year)
-Drake University (BA Theatre Arts, waitlisted for BFA Acting)
Taking into account only each school’s reputation for my desired major, can any of you give me any insight into the programs that I have to choose from? Thank you so much, this is a really tough decision!
Are you in-state for U of I?
Yes, I live in Illinois.
It’s a good school and likely a LOT cheaper
I have heard good things about ball state for theater. Do they offer a tuition waiver for OOS students?
All are good overall schools. If in state tuition brings cost way down I would look at at Illinois seriously. Especially if you want to start in a BFA program right away.
I am also in IL, and in doing my research I believe Ball State offers a discount to IL residents, I imagine that would display in the financial offer. I know fit is critical, but if you feel equally about the schools, I’d go with the least amount of debt.
U of I is also your only true BFA offer at this point. I’d go with that one, unless there’s something about it that you hate. I know they have a relationship with Illinois Shakespeare.
UPDATE: Also Southeast Missouri State University for BFA Acting 
I have friends at SEMO and they love it. Got very good scholarships so it is more than reasonable cost. It sounds like a great program. Out of your list it is the one I would recommend but also the only one I really know about. Probably between U of Illinois and SEMO.
CONGRATS
My D is a MT freshman at SEMO. She’s really happy there.