<p>Hello there. I just need some tips on making a decision. I would like some insights as to small school vs big school, playing opportunities vs prestige and things like that.</p>
<p>Thanks :) </p>
<p>How about starting with a Pro and Con list for each school you’ve been accepted to? You chose each school for a reason, so think back to what attracted you to each place. If you want specific details or advice about particular schools, you have to give us some more information. Making the Pro/Con list was a big factor in helping my son make his choice four years ago.</p>
<p>Good advice from Clarimom! Which teacher did you feel the most comfortable with, list the ensembles-both required and elective- in which you could play, location, scope of entire program listing required courses and electives that interest you, total cost of attendance (and find out if the financial aid you’ve been awarded is for all 4 years and also the average tuition increase for each year), housing options (how will you get to classes when you move off campus, etc).
I know it sounds simplistic, but when it’s all there in front of you it’s a lot easier to make an informed decision. Wishing you the best of luck!!</p>
<p>I agree with the other posters, put together a matrix/spreadsheet listing the various factors for the school, in some sort of structured form. So for example, you might have "School A: Pros: Good faculty in department, lot of choices, relatively affordable, good music facilities Cons: School is in middle of nowhere, level of playing in school not as high as others, limited opportunity to perform as a freshman, or to do outside work/gigs. …and so forth. Putting together the list will help frame the answers, frame your thoughts and make it easier. My advice is go over the possibilities and in the end, trust your instincts on which to choose. </p>