Pace vs Wake Forest

We are down to two schools. WFU offered S a substantial FA package but WFU is not known for the acting, or even the arts, but is an excellent academic university. PACE offered a merit scholarship but will cost us approx. $50K more for 4 years. Both schools are for a BA program; however, PACE is in NYC. We are not wealthy but we can make it work, if we have to.

From a parent who knows nothing about the acting business, does location really matter for a BA program?

If the only advantage of Pace is the location, I would go for the other school. The $50,000 you save could be used for training, or for rent once he does move to New York, or just to avoid student loans.

If he genuinely loves Pace’s program and feels that it’s a perfect fit, that’s a different story and might be worth it.

@LusbyMom - which BA program was he admitted to at Pace and what are your son’s career goals?

@CaMom13 BA Acting and he wants to act. But he also likes directing and playwriting. Basically, everything relating to theater/film.

@actorparent1 , yes. He loves PACE. He was accepted NYU BFA Acting but we can not afford it. Pace is still a stretch, but we can make it work with his help (side jobs).

If he loves pace, and you can make it work, then go for it!

Thanks to all for your help. I think PACE is the best fit. NYC here he comes…

A little known secret - there are profs who teach at several schools in/around Bway (NYU, Cap Molloy, Pace, Julliard, etc.) I would generally say that Pace would open more doors in acting than WFU. Also, does he have an opportunity to audition for the acting BFA at Pace (if he did and was rejected, can he reapply - know kids in FL who have done that at UF / UCF and gained admission into BFA 2nd yr.)?

@rickle1 I did not know that. He did apply for BFA Acting FCTV, BFA Acting & BA Acting. Pace chose BA Acting as his best fit. Most likely because he dabbles in everything. I’m sure when he gets there, they will figure it out. We loved WFU but the opportunities were limited. You’ve been a great help on the WFU site. Thanks.

To answer your question, I would say location matters if it is NYC or LA. Otherwise, no. As others mention, there will be stronger connections with the business, professors, alumni, events with Broadway actors, ease of auditioning for summer shows, etc etc in NYC.

But, $50,000 is important, and a lot. And remember, we are talking about a business here in which it is incredibly hard to make a career in, regardless of where one studies. A portion of that money could fund summers in NYC where he could take outside training, immerse in the local scene as well, and still get those NYC connections.

There’s no clear path to success in the industry, so go with what works, all things considered!

^ pretty much spot on. It’s not like traditional college to career path majors. Ultimately performers, regardless of training or schooling, need to be selected through a competitive audition process per show. D is going down that path in a yr. Attends a performing arts HS. Director of program was a casting director on Bway for 10 yrs. He’s told them so many times that quite frequently it just comes down to a look they’re going for in that role. At that level assume everyone has skills.

To that point my D has asked several times if we would just give her the college fund to go live in NYC instead of going to college (take lessons full time). Probably not a crazy idea…but we said no, it’s for college. Not wanting her to think about plan B, per se, but good to have one and that’s where college comes in.