<p>I’m a student at Huntsville High School in Huntsville, Texas, which is the town in which Sam Houston State University is located. Now, I know Sam Houston to be a great school for MT, which I plan on majoring in. But, it seems that there are other schools with better reputations. Do you think it would be better to stay in Huntsville and go to Sam, or should I spread out. I’ve been considering OCU, because of all the recommendations it receives. What do you think?</p>
<p>It would probably cost you a whole lot less to go to Sam Houston. OCU is a private school and costs the same for both in-state and out-of-state students, but I'm sure it is much more expensive that SHSU. Plus you could live at home and save thousands of dollars in room and board. My D is at OCU and also looked briefly at Sam Houston, but felt OCU had a much better program, although SHSU is probably very good. She just didn't check very deeply into it. After visiting OCU, her mind was made up.</p>
<p>Chris, why not look at SHSU <em>and</em> a variety of other programs in MT? Why limit your search to those two? As musicmom pointed out, if cost is a major concern (and isn't it for many of us?) you could commute to SHSU and still get a very good education in MT. But if you are considering also looking at OCU, why not also look at some of the more than dozen schools at the top of this list and see what fits your needs best? Those who know more than I do have told me that my own D (a hs junior right now) should probably apply to/audition for between 8-12 musical theater programs. Branch out and see what you find. Of course, in the end, you may well find that the best program for you is right in your own backyard. But you never know! :) Good luck.</p>
<p>Thank you. I'll certainly take your advice.</p>