<p>My D auditioned for the bfa at university of evansville and got accepted as a theater generalist. I can't figure if this means the bs program or if she would be significantly behind the bfa's in terms of stage opportunities and classes she is allowed to take. Is anyone familiar with the "generalist" designation? She has been accepted other places, but she is trying to compare some things.</p>
<p>I’d definitely call them and get the scoop, and visit if it seems interesting enough. This always sounded great to D but it was just too far away for her in the end. It would be a very individual thing though.</p>
<p>I went and visited Evansville and got the scope. First of all, major congrats to her because when I asked about that program, they informed me only 3 people get in a year. She will not be behind at all. She does everything the others do except she has the chance to do more and expand in the field. Such a pursue teaching, drama therapy, theater business, etc, or that is how the program was described to me.</p>
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<p>momandco, I also auditioned for BFA performance at Evansville and was accepted as a theatre generalist. I felt at first like it was a “you didn’t get in there, so we’ll just put you here” sort of thing, and that wasn’t something I could feel good about, but after visiting campus, here’s what I’ve learned. Theatre generalists can take all of the same classes as performance majors, but in addition to that, they can take any other class in the department. Then, at the end of four years, if they choose, theatre generalists can get a BFA performance degree…or a BS…it’s entirely up to the student. In the meantime, they are just granted free reign to explore the theatre. Your D was probably accepted because she voiced some interest in areas outside of performance. I did…though I also made it clear that I had very little experience outside of acting, just interest and enthusiasm for learning. While I was on campus I met several theatre generalists, one of which planned on graduating with a BFA in performance and was in the midst of rehearsals for a show. I left campus feeling that being accepted as a theatre generalist was not a downgrade from performance but rather an endorsement from the faculty that I have potential for success in several areas. I think it is a really good option for me.</p>
<p>That is so very helpful! My D felt the same way when she first was accepted and she couldn’t quite figure out what the generalist program was. Thank you so much for posting! I am hoping that we can visit the campus soon and she can get a feel for the program. Have you decided to go to Evansville or are you thinking about some other schools too? Thanks again!</p>
<p>I am still waiting to hear from some other schools and if I am accepted to those it will be a pretty hard decision…but I really like Evansville. And for logistical reasons, like location, it’s a really good fit. I hope you do visit! They planned out the whole day for me–three classes, a meeting with the director of theatre, a meeting with admissions, lunch and dinner–it was really fun. I recommend timing your visit around a show because that was one of the highlights of my visit. It was incredible…and nearly half of the cast were freshmen. Anyway, maybe I’ll meet your D next year. Either way, good luck!</p>