<p>My daughter is a freshman BFA Performance major at University of Miami. This school and this program fit her to a tee and it may be of interest to others, so I wanted to share a few tidbits about the University and offer myself as a resource.</p>
<p>*UM is a competitive, private research university. There are 10K undergrads and about 3K graduate students. It is probably best known for its med school and football program. It is located in Coral Gables, a tony suburb just outside Miami. US News ranks it 44.</p>
<p>*UM offers intimate, auditioned BFA Performance and BFA Musical Theatre degrees. This year's class is comprised of 18 BFAs. The Performance and MT kids take many classes together. There is also a non-audition BA, but truth be told I do not know anything about the BA.</p>
<p>*The Performance BFA is ideally suited to an actor who would also like to study dance and singing. The acting classes include the expected Acting/Studio/Voice/Movement, etc. However, actors also take dance (ballet and jazz/musical theatre) twice a week and are tested for appropriate placement. They also take a class called "Singing for Actors." </p>
<p>*UM auditions on campus and also at Unifieds in all three cities. Expect to do a dance call as part of auditions, but do not let is dissuade you! They just wanna see how you move!</p>
<p>*The educators are working professionals, many with extensive Broadway credits. It is a supportive environment where students feel safe taking risks. It is NOT a cut program.</p>
<p>*Students are not cast their freshman year, but they are guaranteed to be cast in two shows each year in the following years. </p>
<p>*They do senior showcases in both NYC and LA. </p>
<p>*UM alum are active on Broadway/TV/Film/National Tours, etc., etc. Do not be put off by their outdated website! It does not do justice to the university and especially to the theatre program.</p>
<p>*The school is all about encouraging students to follow their passion. So, if you have an interest in taking a class outside of the BFA (or even attempting an additional minor or even major) and it fits in your schedule, they will support you 100%. The internationally reknowned Frost School of Music brings an additional artsy vibe to campus beyond the theatre program.</p>
<p>*The campus is gorgeous. Lots of new facilities (Student Center, Wellness Center, etc.) It is a self-contained "real" campus with a lake, palm trees, indoor and outdoor pools, outdoor seating everywhere. There is a campus shuttle to take students to off-campus shopping and hangouts including Coconut Grove and the beaches. Public transportation makes the rest of Miami easily accessible without a car.</p>
<p>*My D's dorm is the nicest I have ever seen---and I've seen a lot! Plus, the supports in place are fantastic. On her floor she not only has an RA, but also an AF (Academic Fellow) who helps students navigate their academic questions/concerns. Each dorm also has a Faculty Master, a professor who lives there with their family.</p>
<p>*I have been beyond impressed with everything The U offers; they think of everything! Freshman Orientation was a multi-event extravaganza that lasted five days. Every student gets free admission to all sporting events all year (including football!) and transportation via coach bus is also complimentary. Then there are unexpected niceties like free printing and free laundry. Every exposure we have had....from financial aid....to faculty....to students....to support staff.....has been accommodating and positive. There is tremendous pride and school spirit throughout the entire campus. We are very proud to be a part of "The U" family and encourage you to check it out!</p>