Hi, I was accepted into the Theater programs in both Muhlenberg and SUNY New Paltz. Can you possibly tell me the pros and cons of each school, and their theater programs? These are the two I am between and I am not sure which one I should go to.
Also, does anyone know how their communications programs are? I am planning on double majoring. Thank you so much!
Congrats on both acceptances! My d applied to Muhlenberg and I wanted to see when and how you were notified. Thanks and good luck!
Hmmm didn’t know Muhlenberg decisions came out yet either. Was it early decision?
@0827NJ and @jnkam24 My son applied RD, and they were pushing the ED up to 2/15…which is odd. No notice for us either. That said, we have accepted students dates lined up for ther schools where we have acceptance and FA, and suspect by the time we hear from Muhlenberg, The horse may be already out of the barn on decisions. Still leaving the door open, but wishing we could sooner rather than later. The FA process, which I was sure was complete in January, took me by surprise with the “things missing” email we received. I find the process to be the most difficult of all the schools.
Hi, @0827NJ and @jnkam24 I did an interview with Muhlenberg and they said in the interview that I was being considered for an Honors Program and that I should assume I’ve been accepted. I got the confirmation that I was being considered afterwards. I haven’t heard the official “yes” yet!
@sgb6200 Do you live in NY?
I can’t really comment on the programs, but numerous kids from our HS attend both schools and the main difference between them is that the Muhlenberg kids tend to be wealthier than the New Paltz kids. I preferred for my kids to be more towards the middle to upper end of the socio-economic group at their college, so they attend/ed SUNY schools. I can’t compete financially with the families in my town who send their kids to schools like Muhlenberg and I didn’t want my kids to feel inferior or inadequate because they don’t have the same things other kids are able to have. I don’t know if that is a concern for you, but it was for me.
That said, of the kids I know who attended M, all but 2 majored in theater and all loved their experience. I don’t know of any who is working professionally now of those who have graduated. Of the NP kids, I know of one who is working as an actor, writer and director. She studied English and theater at NP. However, most of the others studied other things.
Have you visited both? That may make the decision easier. Also compare curriculum, faculty, opportunities for shows, academics if that is something that’s important to you, costs, etc. Muhlenberg has an excellent reputation in the theatre community.
I did visit both! I liked Muhlenberg’s campus a bit more, even though it’s a bit smaller and not in the best area. @alwaysamom
I do! @marg928
Well…I’ve been on these boards for at least two years researching BFA and BA Theater/Acting programs. I have not heard much about SUNY New Paltz…it’s really just not talked about. I’m not saying it’s not good, just not discussed much. My D’s coach never mentioned it either. Muhlenberg on the otherhand, although it is a non-audition program has a great reputation. I went to visit it years ago for my oldest (majoring in dance) and I liked it a lot. Facilities were great, campus beautiful, just really small. I know of a current sophomore who starred in all our high school shows and won our local theater award for best actress. Very talented girl but is majoring in something else but is involved in the shows at Muhlenberg. I know she was cast in a main role in the fall of her freshman year as a non-major. So know that there will be competition for parts from students outside the program. Since you are in state, unless Muhlenberg gave you a huge scholarship, there won’t be any comparison in price. I don’t know your finances, but if you can get through college debt free or with very little debt it would be to your advantage since you are pursuing a field in which there is no guarantee of steady work. You should also post your question here: http://talk.qa.collegeconfidential.com/discussion/comment/21322258#Comment_21322258
Even though it’s primarily for auditioned programs, the members have lots of knowledge of many different programs.