Theatre Transfer Help?

College Majors Theater/Drama Majors
1

<p>Hi!</p>

<p>I just finished up my first year at Loyola Marymount University. I didn't do much research when applying to schools and really had no idea what it was I wanted to study either. Theatre has always been my passion, but I was so worried about not getting a well-rounded education. I entered LMU as a theatre major and am thrilled with my choice, but feel like I'm not being challenged academically. I was accepted to much more demanding schools, but ultimately chose LMU because of its closeness to my home (a year ago I totally wasn't ready to go away, but now I am). I've taken a liking to LMU and the people here, but I'm not getting much at all as far as academics go, and it seems like the theatre program is geared toward a career in film (understandably so, considering its location in LA!) and I don't have any desire to make it big in film. I'm much more stage oriented. Also, the program isn't really taken seriously by many of the students in the theatre major, and that bums me out.</p>

<p>I'm considering a transfer, but am unsure where I would fit in. I'm also not even really sure if it's kosher to transfer out of/into theatre programs...The thought of starting new all over again is a bit off-putting, but I'm afraid I will regret my choice if I stay. </p>

<p>I'm looking for an academically strong liberal arts school (HS GPA: 3.8, ACT: 31, "A" student throughout HS and LMU) AND great theatre program. If possible, I'd like to be able to double major or earn a teaching credential- just something to fall back on! I'd like to stay coastal (preferably East coast). Ideally the school wouldn't be too large, but at this point, size isn't a total priority. Hope I'm not asking for too much!</p>

<p>I have begun looking at some schools (Purchase, Wagner, Bard, Marist, Fordham, Mullenburg), and comparing BA and BFA programs, but would really like outside opinions. Any help or thoughts you have would be much appreciated whether they be about the schools I've listed, or any you think I might have overlooked! </p>

<p>THANK YOU!</p>

2

<p>My S is a Junior at Fordham double majoring in Playwriting and Performance so feel free to ask any questions about the Theatre program, large core curriculum or life in Lincoln Center. His gf actually transferred from LMU and had no trouble fitting in or being cast in mainstage productions.</p>

3

<p>Vassar and Sarah Lawrence have great BA Theatre programs, too! Syracuse has a BS Theatre program, which I believe is decent, but I don’t know much about it. The schools on your list though are great!</p>

4

<p>If you want a strong theatre program and challenging academics, a BA at a school like Fordham, Bard, or maybe Muhlenberg would fit your bill. Vassar also!</p>

<p>Some of the BFA conservatory programs (Purchase is an example) are almost unbelievably selective admissions-wise, extremely intense in their theatre training, and in addition would probably not offer the academic experience you’re looking for.</p>

5

<p>Many students even in theater transfer–Some programs require you to start as a freshman again in the performance end but take your gen ed requirements. Do NOt feel the least bit uncomfortable with transferring. You obviously have matured a lot in the last year.</p>

<p>Your grades are great so you will have lots of opportunities. Spend time really looking at curriculum at the various schools so you feel comfortable with the schools.</p>