I am about to apply to East Carolina University, Shenandoah University, and the University of South Dakota. I have applied to Coastal Carolina University (accepted) and James Madison University (deferred until regular admissions). I was just wondering if anyone one had any specific information about any of these schools that would make their MT programs stand out. Are there any specific classes or interesting facts about these colleges? I am trying to decide on my number 1 and any more personal information would help a bunch. Thanks!
First thing you should do is look at the top of the MT forum page- many of the schools you are interested have specific pages- great place to gather info. Best of luck to you!!
My S was accepted to Shenandoah last year (chose a different program for logistical reasons) and I cannot say enough about the MT faculty we met there. As a HS student, my son was able to attend workshops presented by Jonathan and Matthew, and also sat in on classes/lessons on the campus. Their knowledge of the business of MT is extensive (check out CC postings by VoiceTeacher). We visited the campus twice. Due to scheduling, we never managed to see a musical, but we did see two plays (MT students played some of the leads) and we were very impressed. One of many positive things that struck me about the school, was its proximity to DC. While it’s situated in the Virginia mountains, the students have fairly easy access to DC. And perhaps because of its proximity to east coast/NYC, many professionals in the field come to do workshops/masterclasses on campus. I believe the students get excellent training at Shenandoah, and if things had been different, I know my S would have thrived there (other students from his audition cohort certainly are).
I teach at James Madison. Feel free to contact me with questions… arecchkm@jmu.edu I would also be happy to put you in contact with current students if you would like. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and meet with faculty and students as part of the audition day.
Kate
I second Shenandoah. DD is MT major there and we really like the emphasis on the business end of MT, especially how to market yourself. It’s nice to know she will leave with the skills to survive on her own in such a tough business (they even learn how to do their taxes). She also likes the emphasis on learning pop/rock singing.
My D graduated from Coastal Carolina in 2014. Some of the things she really loved about CCU were the small class size, the supportive atmosphere, the openness and accessibility of the faculty, the chance to create your own opportunities to perform/write/direct/etc., the great performance spaces, the curriculum, the cross casting, and above all else, the training. She went in with college and AP credits, which CCU accepted, so appreciated that she could have some flexibility in her schedule. While she was there, the MT students were not able to participate in the semester study at the Accademia dell’Arte in Arezzo, Italy, but they are now and the students I know who have gone have loved their time there. Finally, my D was fortunate to be able to participate in 3 Maymester new works opportunities. She learned so much, made great contacts, and had a blast working with the creative teams CCU brought in for these special projects.
People always want to know about what the graduates are doing. I can tell you the class of 2014 is doing well so far. Most made the move to NYC over the fall. One is working a year long regional gig, along with a 2013 CCU graduate. Another is headed to Japan this month for a year long gig. Another has back to back regional gigs coming up this spring, while 3 others recently finished regional gigs. My D is in rehearsals for her first NYC show, which opens next month. She also works 2 part time jobs, both of which are “in the business.” Not only does she really enjoy the work she is doing off stage, her employers are supportive of her auditioning and performing. One of those jobs came about through the professional contacts she made while at CCU.
But as you will hear over and over here, it’s all about the fit. You have some fabulous schools on your list. Find the program that is right for YOU, take advantage of every opportunity presented to you, and enjoy your college experience. Break legs!