Hey everyone! I’m in the process of being admitted into the suny purchase bfa acting program (my hs transcript was lost in the mail, so I’m waiting for admissions to receive the new one for it all to be finalized). I’ve been reading around and I saw a lot of things concerning the bfa program just about it being very competitive and intense. I’m going to go visit at some point in the very near future but I was hoping someone on cc would be able to provide some insight as to what the culture of the bfa program is like? For instance, does anyone know if there is any semblance of community or camaraderie in each class of actors? Or is it just uber competitive where it feels as if everyone is competing against each other?
I am aware of the evaluations every 6 weeks, but does it feel like the teachers really believe in and support the students?
I also have an understanding that it is not a very warm or nurturing environment, which is fine, but do people in the program at least feel supported by their peers and/or teachers?
I know that I just asked some very involved questions, I would so very much appreciate any information anyone can provide. Thank you!
D1 is a sophomore acting student. The program is very intense and they do undergo regular evaluations. I would not describe the environment as “warm” necessarily but it is supportive (both between students and faculty and among classmates). My D does not feel she’s competing against others in her company; she feels she is constantly competing against herself - working to make herself better.
I strongly recommend you go to an accepted students event and sit in on classes. They are very accommodating. You can get a sense of the vibe for yourself and you can talk to current students. D1 spent a 1 1/2 days there 2 years ago (while she was still on the waitlist) and left knowing it was her place. Surprisingly, D2 received an acceptance last week - we were not sure they would be open to siblings. Each class acts as a company so I don’t know how much class interaction occurs between/among the companies. D2 is planning to head up to sit in on classes there, then on to Boston to do the same. I think your best source of information will be current students.
@artskids thank you very much for that input! Congrats on both of your D’s having acceptance, that’s awesome! As soon as I get this hs transcript fiasco sorted out, I plan to go visit the school.