<p>@vvnstar - you always seem to say what I meant to say in the first place.</p>
<p>@bisouu - thanks for posting the article. Every parent and kid who are in this search process should read it. It really is inspirational.</p>
<p>True story: Our D took her first real job earlier this year at a prominent clothing retailer. It turns out that she’s a natural at sales, and a very reliable employee. Of course mom and I have instilled many values in her, but I can’t help to think that her long time spent in youth, community, and high school theatre have helped her to a great degree.</p>
<p>mtmomagain - The Kent State director meant no disrespect to the kids at all. In fact several were there at the time of her comments (the prospective students had left to change for the dance call). It was clear she cares about them all and they like and respect her and the other professors. Several of the students had commented that it took them multiple times auditioning to get into the BFA program, so “scrappy caterpillars” wouldn’t surprise them. The comment actually came in response to a parent question about what would it take to get the program to the “next level”. She was lamenting that they couldn’t consistently land top talent kids because they did not have talent scholarships (although they are adding a few very small scholarships next year). </p>
<p>It is good to know that the KS program director made her comments out of a place of caring and that she nurtures her students as it seems she does. I do agree that there is great value in finding those programs where they are not looking for the already polished performer, but for those who have good skills and great potential and, with the right training, can make their mark too.</p>