<p>I've been doing quite a bit of reading on all these threads with regard to the small acceptance rates at most of these colleges. It seems to me that because the programs are so small, the kids in these programs must see a lot of each other and have a small, more high-school setting than say, a history major. </p>
<p>With that in mind, and since this business is so subjective, how do students deal with the day to day envies of not being cast in shows, not being "favorites" in classes, etc,. when they see each other so much? Do a lot of these students make friends outside of the departments so as to avoid such envies? Do most of your children room with other theater majors, or do they choose to have non-theater roommates so as "broaden" their interests, so to speak?</p>
<p>Just wondering....again, a worry-wart mom to deal with. But, thanks for all your input.</p>
<p>I know that at Syracuse, we have a really strong community. I have been amazed this year at how supportive everyone is of one another. Since we are not allowed to perform Freshman year, we have time to build a strong bond as a community and not have to worry about casting. </p>
<p>Sure, there are some minor politics that occur. But, in my opinion, it is important to find a school with a strong community feel. I have heard horror stories about the competitive atmosphere of some other theatre schools. I recently ate lunch with one of the main teachers in the department, and they said that they discourage the competitive feel for our particular school.</p>
<p>Some kids, however, thrive on a more competitive atmosphere. I guess it depends on what type of setting you want in a school.</p>
<p>Personally, I have found myself a little bit jealous of some things that have occurred this year, but not so much that it ruined my friendships with anyone. Again, we have a really strong community who tend to be more supportive. This is the type of environment that works for me. One of my teachers has said "You are people first, actors second." I think with this mindset it will keep someone's head on their shoulders.</p>
<p>I do think it is a good idea to take advantage of a univeristy setting if you have one. It just helps you deal with the dissapointment that sometimes comes along with this difficult business. There are many groups on campuses that allow you to make friends outside of the theater circle, that sort of lets you escape from theatre world if things aren't going all too well. I think it is important to try and have a life outside of theater. </p>
<p>But all in all, I haven't found jealousy to be a huge problem at my school, but I can only speak for Syracuse. I think most theatre departments, no matter how competitive, tend to feel like more of a family, though, which hopefully yields more supportive departments overall. We are all in this business together ;)</p>
<p>That's what we're hoping. I've been a little leery because we know several people at the performing high school here (my daughter did NOT attend but we know several of the dancers), and the bitterness and jealousy has been awful. But, maybe it's because it's high school. I've been telling my daughter that I think college will be a little different because parents aren't involved (which in so many cases is the main problem).</p>
<p>Syracuse sounds great. Best wishes for your continued success.</p>
<p>I think you hit the nail on the head with the parental involvement. There will always be jealousy issues but students often can work it out themselves. When the parents get involved, it is often a different story.</p>