Webster University

College Majors Musical Theater Major
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<p>Now Nate's turn : )</p>

<p>I will back up my brother Webgrad and Mitch in stating that Webster is a very nuturing program. I have completed two years of training there, and wouldn't have chosen to go anywhere else. I think it is important when looking at Webster that there isn't any set amount of people who have to leave the program by time of graduation. A class could have as many as 18 or 19 as the class had the year before I came... or be as small as 13, which was this years senior class. Having people not invited back is a very scary thing, but a lot of people end up seeing that is was actually the best for that class and student. A person could not be invited back for failing a probation, or failing more then once class, which would have put the student on double probation... hence the double probation rule Mgbob spoke about. If a student also fails their area of concentration alone it may result in "suspension" as it is defined in the handbook. My best advice for you would be to read your handbook, know your rights. Then after you do, go in there with an open and positive attitude. Webster isn't the program for everybody, and they want to make sure that the degree still means something. If you look at all the top schools in architecture (excuse my spelling on that... no idea if that is correct), medicine, and law... not every student is allowed to continue on in the program. Most students let go, are prepared to make it as an actor in the real world. Many go out and start working right away. After the first two years at Webster, an actor has been taught all the initial tools from the program. Webster will never be the be all end all of you. What Webster offers... or offered for me, is a wonderful theatre education with top knotch teachers and students. Believe it or not, the better yours peers are the better you will be, because the ensemble will be pushed... I like that word "ensemble"... because its what you learn to work as. Everybody in my class is incredibly close, and even the people no longer in the conservatory who are still at Webster are still my best of friends. Webster, is really something special. I turned down DePaul because I didn't want to deal with a mandatory cut system... I didn't want to feel competition between me and the rest of my class and be a "number"... not to say DePaul does either... but I know that Webster will never treat you like that, garuntee. If you have any other questions please feel free to contact me. I check my e-mail religiously! : ) Take care, and God Bless!</p>

<p>~NastyNate</p>

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<p>For those of you who still believe Webster has no cuts system, I am living proof that there is. I was recently "cut" from the program with no warning. I spent one and 3/4 years in the conservatory without ever being on warning. I also have never been on probation. When I went in for my interview I was told that I would not be returning back next year because I failed Musical Theatre and I also failed my end of the year Showings! How can someone be "let go" from a program without even being warned that they are in trouble? Also, how can you fail someone in Showings which last about 10 minutes when they've put in two years of hard work! Three other of my best friends were also cut this year without being on probation. The people that were on probation were all asked to stay. THIS PROGRAM IS EXTREMELY SHADY. Consider yourself warned if you do decide to attend next year.</p>

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<p>As for Nasty Nate's numbers, I find it fascinating that after this year's cuts the class of 08 will have exactly 10 musical theatre majors (5 girls and 5 boys) and 4 regional threatre majors (2 girls and 2 boys) not to mention have the same number of students as the 07 class did after they had their cuts last year. 14.</p>

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<p>hello everyone!</p>

<p>first off, anyone who's been at webster longer than two years knows that every graduating class for the past ten years has been very unique and is made up of a random sampling of musical theatre majors, acting majors, girls and boys. </p>

<p>secondly, for everyone's information, if you fail classes, you will be asked to leave. that seems to be fairly standard for any college across the country. but again, for new students, all of this information can be found in the hand book. it's very clear and easy to read. the faculty is also extremely helpful and will go thru it with you if you would like. </p>

<p>this also brings up another thing i enjoyed about webster. the faculty encourages you to set up meetings with them as often as you like, to get instant feedback on classwork, production work, or anything else you might want to discuss. this way, you always know how you are doing and what areas you may need to work on. it's very personal and helped me grow tremendously. so my advice for new students: make meetings often, they are great! </p>

<p>it seems we have covered the cuts subject thoroughly. i would love to move on and talk about the more important aspects of this incredible program, such as the actual training, class work, and production work. keep those questions coming! take care everyone.</p>

<p>-WebGrad</p>

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<p>Not to be rude, but it is starting to sound like you guys are trying to sweep something under the rug that is very important for those of us that might audition. I tried looking at the handbook on your website hoping to get some clarity and the link doesn't work. Is it only accessible to current students? If so, why? How does someone that has never been put on warning or probation fail Musical Theatre and end of year showings? Why should I not believe the teachers flunked him because the class was being typecast and they didn't feel like his look or whatever fit the ensemble they were finally getting around to putting together? Why would someone say on his blog that it is almost unheard of to not get put on warning as a freshman if it weren't true? Why do you lose half a class or more through cuts and dropouts when other schools that are honestly more prestigious and also have "back by invitation" policies don't lose nearly that many? I know that DePaul has a ridiculous cut policy and there's no way I would go there in a million years but at least I can respect that they are upfront about it. I also respect that Arizona finally came clean about theirs. I was being polite when I said I heard that you have a cut system in disguise when I asked about this before. What I was really told by my teacher is that Webster has one but lies about it to prospective students. You should know that reputation is out there and this is your opportunity to come clean on it. Otherwise, I know I won't audition and I imagine there are a gazillion others reading that will also cross Webster off their lists. Sorry. I know you want to show your school in the best possible light but something seems very dysfunctional here.</p>

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<p>a message board such as this is here for people to post opinions. no one is actually representing the school itself unless otherwise noted, keep that in mind. and as many of the students have said, webster is not for everyone, and that's a wonderful thing. visit the school, read the hand book (click on "current students" and follow the links to the handbook. it opens as a pdf. no login or anything needed, it's open to the public). </p>

<p>there was a recent class where no one was asked to leave after sophomore year, so saying that they cut a certain amount of people at a certain time can't be true. there have been graduating classes with as few as 11 students all the way up to 20+ students. a classmate of mine left the program because she wanted to be a recording artist, and recently came out with her first album. people leave for all sorts of reasons. webster is not for everyone. take time and find a program that you really gel with. sit in on classes, visit, do whatever you can. </p>

<p>if i was a prospective, i would want to talk to someone who has gone thru the entire program, the good and the bad. and i'm not saying to listen to just me, but i thought i'd be able to answer some questions. there's no need for me to defend an already stellar program such as webster. there will always be plenty of people who understand what a great program it is and want to be a part of it. i can only speak for my experience there as well as my classmates. it's a whole new ball game after you graduate and i'm glad i received great training. i hope you all find a program that does the same for you, whether it's webster or somewhere else. best of luck to everyone!</p>

<p>-WebGrad</p>

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<p>WebGrad,</p>

<p>I am very grateful that you are taking the time to post. It isn't very often that an alumni from a BFA program offers to take questions...life is just plain busy. You have life experiences to share that the prospective students and students in progress can only dare to dream. Thank you again for your time and willingness.</p>

<p>I was wondering if you have ever contemplated working toward your MFA? or has Webster given you tools to suffice for now? I know that classes in voice and speech at Webster are highly vigorous. Any thoughts on this?</p>

<p>Have you had the chance to audition in LA? Pretty nice that Webster has added an LA showcase now, isn't it? :)</p>

<p>Take care...and break a leg dear!!</p>

<p>SUE aka 5pants</p>

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<p>thank you so much for your kind words. it's my pleasure to offer any help or advice that i can. </p>

<p>as far as an mfa is concerned, i have toyed with the idea. i was told that the webster training covers everything a mfa program would cover, and so continuing on would be a bit repetitive. based on people i have met in ny who are in mfa programs and my own personal experiences, i have found this to be true. at least for now i feel good about my craft, but i'm sure as time goes on i will find things that i would like to polish up on, whether it be thru acting classes here in the city or thru an mfa program. and some web grads do go on to mfa programs and enjoy themselves. there's always more to learn and it's great for meeting new contacts etc. i could definitely see myself down the road doing an mfa in directing (something i fell in love with at webster). we'll see what happens. </p>

<p>and as far as LA goes, i think it's great that webster is broadening it's reach. personally i knew i had to do the NYC thing first but LA has always been in the back of my mind. i've always been interested in TV/Film and loved the screen acting classes at webster (my first job out of school was actually film oddly enough). i'm always learning more about LA thru other webster alum's who live there and thru word of mouth here in the city. i think my first step will be to fly out and audition for pilot season, possibly next year if it works out. i just want to get my feet wet and see what it's like over there. one step at a time. </p>

<p>thanks for the great questions Sue. i will actually be doing some theatre near your neck of the woods this summer. (ask Al for more info)</p>

<p>take care everyone,</p>

<p>-WebGrad</p>

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<p>WebGrad,</p>

<p>Thanks for your answers to my questions. </p>

<p>You bring up that important aspect of all artists in general....NETWORKING!! As a parent I don't know if that particular aspect is truly scrutinzed well enough in the college selection process. We kind of stumbled upon Webster through the "Dramatics" magazine...through research we discovered what a great program it was for theatre training, but I must admit we didn't give much thought about the networking possiblities. To our delight and good fate we now realize that Webster grads network with each other extemely well and are very respected throughout the theatre world....as are the faculity and other entities that interwine with Webster (i.e. St. Louis Rep).</p>

<p>I am also delighted as a parent to know how Webster trains you well for both film and stage. It's a big world out there and it's nice to have lots of tools in the box.</p>

<p>I will definitely ask A.B. about your plans which are bringing you to our neck of the woods. Although we are flanked by cornfields mostly. ;) Hopefully close enough by to come see you....our door is always open...would love to treat you to some home cooking if possible. What a mom I AM!! LOL</p>

<p>Take care....youngest son's high school graduation party is today. Raining right now...but I am hopeful for a break in the clouds this afternoon....must run.</p>

<p>My best,</p>

<p>SUE aka 5pants</p>

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<p>Wether you boys realize it or not there is a reason you fair better than the girls. You will notice that none of the girls use the term "nuture". The head of the department likes the boys!!!! Get a clue.....I mean really LIKES the boys!!!</p>

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<p>musicboy,</p>

<p>haha, interesting theory! if you really are interested, i graduated with 9 girls who would all say the same things that we have been saying. i can give you email address if you would like. let me know. also the biggest scholarships given in the conservatory my senior year went to girls. it seems the ladies do just fine! funny post though! take care.</p>

<p>-WebGrad</p>

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<p>It is disheartening that a certain few would come on here and destroy what I began as a helpful and positive thread. It has gotten personal, outrageous and down right flammatory. I have asked Collegemom, the moderator, to keep a watchful eye here. I'd suggest that you pursue other avenues to take out your anger...posting on here is not accomplishing anything but a negative light to be shone on you. I know the people who post on this thread quite well, many of us have been here since MT CC's conception many years ago and we have seen many cynical attitudes pass this way. Believe me with great sincerity, making such posts only causes you to be that much more transparant.</p>

<p>It's best to not flame the fire...this will be my only post regarding this issue. Let's get on with better and bigger things rather than the soap opera at hand.</p>

<p>I invite my CC friends whom I communicate via email to help me steer this thread conversation back on track. Please write a few lines and get it going!!</p>

<p>Cheers-</p>

<p>SUE aka 5pants</p>

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<p>i couldn't agree more sue! thank you for helping steer the conversation back towards reality. this is such a great site, i would've loved to have had this information when i was looking at schools. please take advantage of it! </p>

<p>-WebGrad</p>

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<p>I have been away from CC for a while, and so it is always nice to catch up with the conversation that has transpired. There is always a great deal of valuable and helpful information, for which I am appreciative.</p>

<p>As the parent of a current Webster senior (a young woman I might add), I have found the conversation over the last few days quite interesting. Although, unfortunately, the tone of the conversation has deteriorated, I do believe this kind of information is extremely helpful, provided the discussion remains thoughtful and factual. It appears that we have two perspectives at opposite ends of the spectrum, but from my experience the truth lies somewhere in between.</p>

<p>I do believe that the faculty, in particular the chair of the Musical Theatre Department, are not completely forthcoming when it comes to the policy of “asking students to leave”. Although the conservatory literature states that students will be evaluated at the end of the sophomore year, there really was no mention during our campus visit or discussions with the head of MT in terms of how this process plays out. The advise to read the handbook, which is posted on the Webster conservatory website, is a good one. However, even if I had I do not think that I would have completely understood exactly what it meant. The handbook does say that “if a student fails their area of concentration alone it may result in suspension.” However, what does it mean to fail your area of concentration? </p>

<p>In the musical theatre department at Webster, it appears to be the opinion of the head of this department. Every year since my daughter has been there, students who were not on probation or even warning were asked to leave at the end of the sophomore year. Or, as the case of my daughter, be placed on probation the beginning of her junior year. </p>

<p>You may think that this is a realistic picture of how things will be when these students leave school and go out into the “real world”, and to a certain extent this is true. However, I work in higher education, and I firmly believe that an education is a time to explore and take risks. For my D, it has been difficult to do so in this kind of environment.</p>

<p>I do want to point out that there are many positives about the program at Webster. I believe the faculty, particularly in acting, are excellent. My daughter has said to me that she has found individual faculty members who have been very nurturing and supportive. </p>

<p>Would we choose Webster again? And this is only my opinion…
Although I do believe the training the conservatory students receive, particularly in acting, is excellent, I would hesitate. Perhaps it was not the best fit, but I believe if Webster would take more time to really explain this section of their handbook to the perspective student and parent, it may make for a class that is more capable of succeeding in the environment that is Webster, with a much higher percentage of accepted students graduating with a BFA. If you are considering Webster I think your S or D really needs to ask, “do I work well under this kind of uncertainly?” When you are visiting with the head of the MT Department (who I believe may be new this coming year since I have heard the current one is retiring) discuss this piece of the handbook with him or her. Make sure you completely understand the procedures that are in place. And then, if your S or D is comfortable with how things work at Webster, go for it.</p>

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<p>Greetings,</p>

<p>I, too, have been away from CC for a while, but a current student suggested I take a look and I have. I am not certain just how to comment, but here are some thoughts.</p>

<p>I have just returned from the Theatre Communications Group Conference and was reassured just how strong the programs of the Conservatory are and just how reasonable our approach to training young artists for the profession is. There is no question in my mind that students that choose Webster for any of our programs of study will receive a considered, thoughtful and responsible education and training.</p>

<p>The current concern about the perception of "cuts" might be valid. Indeed it is never a comfortable decision when a student is told not to continue in a program. We, the faculty, never like to hear from a student at a time they choose to leave a program for their own reasons. In some ways, this might be a two-way street. However, I can state that Webster does not have a formal "cut" system. We did away with that several years ago when we discovered what a negative impact it can have on student perceptions and behavior. Does that mean a student entering a program is guaranteed he/she will stay and graduate? Indeed, it does not.</p>

<p>The faculty strive to be very careful throughout the recruiting cycle, from the first time we engage a potential student on campus, at a Thespian Festival, a College Fair or through email that we provide the best possible information about the program, our process of training and the expectations we have for the students. We strive to discover those students that thrive on a disciplined training, work well in an ensemble situation, have the thirst and desire to learn and grow. Then we work to create the best possible environment possible, with our partnerships with The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and The Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, to insure the students become fully aware of the demands and preparation necessary to be prepared to enter the profession.</p>

<p>We do have semester reviews that are intended to work with the students to promote learning and growth. Not all students are going to succeed. We are attempting to insure success by increasing our selectivity and accepting just those students, who at eighteen years old, appear to have the potential to succeed. Often students accepted and that enter, will choose to leave, most are going to complete the four year sequence and a few will be asked to leave sometime within the eight semesters. There are no quotas. There is no formula for Regional Theatre or Musical Theatre students. There is not an expected size for a graduating class. We celebrate working with those students that clearly show growth, desire, discipline, the joy of working in an ensemble and have talent. That is exciting. The vast majority of students, even those that choose to leave the program, are positive in the experiences they receive and the faculty are outstanding in providing these experiences.</p>

<p>Overall, it is uncomfortable to read those concerns about a "cut system". I invite anyone exploring Webster to ask faculty about this when they meet with them. I would expect you will receive reasonable answers and I do not think they need to be discussed on CC.</p>

<p>I will always do my best to respond to comments as they are appropriate. I am very proud of the faculty, the students and our graduates. As you can see from their comments, there are positive and reasonable thoughts. Please keep asking. Please continue to consider Webster. We are an outstanding program. </p>

<p>The discussions on these pages are terrific. I hope I am helping. Please let us know.</p>

<p>Plaidman</p>

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<p>what a great post. i think it's wonderful to hear perspectives on both sides of the spectrum. i'm so glad the conversation has gotten back on track. i think you make some great points. i did have a few friends (most likely your daughter being one of them) who felt the same things you are voicing. i think you were correct in saying that everyones' experiences at webster are different. i also think that despite any hardships she might have encountered, i think she'll be pleasantly surprised when she gets out in the real world and sees just how well prepared she is. i hope i see her soon in new york. (even though i'm not sure who she is...very mysterious, haha). take care and enjoy the ride. it's going to be crazy.</p>

<p>-WebGrad</p>

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<p>I was in the conservatory for 2 years and I was cut at the end of my sophomore year. I must start out this post with the FACT that Webster's Conservatory gives training that is FABULOUS. The faculty is full of talented and knowledgable individuals. If you choose to go here and you get accepted, I congratulate you. Yet, I do think it is a program to REALLY look into before you dive in head first. If you did not know that being cut was possible here, then you need to do your homework. I, for one, was told by Peter Sargent that this was NOT a cut program before I came. I should have researched a bit deeper to realize what he meant by "cut program". It does not mean that you can't be cut. It means that a certain number of students aren't released to attain a certain ending ratio. Four very talented students were asked to leave this year, none of which were on probation. Those who were on probation were asked to stay at the end of this year. A bit confusing? Well, don't worry, the beloved handbook can explain this mystery to you. I would ask to be 100% informed on the process before choosing to come here. There are a few confusing loopholes they like to overlook when prospective students come for a visit. As for the talented and knowledgable faculty that graces Webster's Conservatory, you can count on them to making you the best you can be! Webgrad was right in saying that you can make all the meetings in the world and recieve all the support in the world. I did this and I was so proud of my progress. I even had the voice and speech teacher tell me that he was proud and that I had reached the bar to pass his class (I was on warning). Imagine my joy! I called my parents, I called my friends...I called everyone because I was so excited! I wasn't going to be cut! Yet, somewhere between this personal meeting and showings...he had changed his mind, and he didn't even tell me. Whether or not my showings were "up to par" in his eyes, this action by the Voice and Speech teacher resulted in a lie that does NOT help Webster's growing reputation. I truly hope you take my story to heart and research your schools. If Webster is right for you, good luck.</p>

<p>If you have ANY questions, you can email me at <a href="mailto:mmonroe04@yahoo.com">mmonroe04@yahoo.com</a></p>

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<p>Viewed from the admin side of things, I find these 'cut' discussions rather humorous. Everyone is so focused on what is fair or not fair, as if fairness has anything to do with most decisions. </p>

<p>First ... the facts:</p>

<p>Fact #1: Webster is a private university. Private universities do not do anything that will lose money.</p>

<p>Fact #2: The only decisions that are made in the name of 'art' are those decisions that do not impact budget.</p>

<p>Fact #3: There are more talented people out there who want to want to enter conservatory than can be accomodated.</p>

<p>Fact #4: Based on the extent of facilities, staffing, and the time available to put on productions, only a certain number of students can be adequately trained through the full 4 years.</p>

<p>Webster conservatory takes the same approach as most similar programs. They knowingly admit 2 to 3 times as many freshmen than they typically graduate. The conservatory courses are NOT like normal curriculum courses. It takes an inordinate amount of time and effort to train students for these types of careers. So ... the size of a class WILL be reduced based on factors outside of an individual students control (e.g. overall # of upperclassmen, staff salaries, department budget, etc.) It is the ONLY way to fund the program for the remaining juniors and seniors. </p>

<p>As far as some of the comments made by others in this thread above ... don't be naive!</p>

<p>OF COURSE there are 'hatchet men'. It is their role to cut a class to the optimal size. They will do and say whatever it takes to get rid of certain students and to protect the university from lawsuits. Right or wrong, this includes discouraging and disheartening certain students, contriving progress reports, and if necessary, failing a student based strictly on 'showings'. Remember, talent is totally subjective ... so anything can be said.</p>

<p>OF COURSE personal biases exist. It is normal that people with the power to make cut decisions will allow factors other than talent to influence them. They will factor in personality, overall group mix, the right 'look', gender, hair color, race, work ethic ... who knows, the list is endless and subjective.</p>

<p>OF COURSE there will be dishonesty. Whenever there is uncertainty among the faculty about who should stay and who should be cut, there will be mixed messages conveyed to the student. </p>

<p>For those considering Webster, most importantly, do you own research! Do not be afraid to demand the answers to the following questions, and to ask for the answers in writing on school letterhead signed by the department head:</p>

<p>Over the past five years ...
1) What was the number of students by class (freshmen,soph,junior,senior)
2) What was the breakdown of each class by gender</p>

<p>The numbers never lie. From these figures you can make your own determination as to whether or not Webster conservatory has a cut program. If the overall number of upperclassmen (juniors & seniors) is reasonably steady over time, then there is a high likelihood that an unwritten policy is in effect.</p>

<p>Make your own judgement based on facts.</p>

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<p>FormerAdm</p>

<p>Your response sums up the practice I have witnessed at Webster. I also completely agree with your suggestion; request figures in writing and make an informed decision based on the facts. And I would suggest this regardless of what school a student is considering. This may just be humorous conversation to you, but believe me, it is not humorous to the student who is cut nor the parent who has sacrificed financially only to subsidize the upperclassmen who remain.</p>

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<p>FormerAdm and midweststudent,</p>

<p>thank you for putting it out there in a way I couldn't word it. PLEASE, prospective students...FIND OUT THE FACTS.</p>