How I Navigated the College Selection Process

The college selection process can be tough, especially for those pursuing theatre. Even the summer before my senior year, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to continue in theatre. In high school, I primarily acted but later explored stage management, costume design, and directing. While leaving the arts felt heartbreaking, I knew I wouldn’t be happy majoring in acting. I loved the leadership and organizational aspects of directing and stage management and wanted to integrate those into my college life. My dad always said I’d make a good business major, though I never quite understood why. Combining what I loved with others’ advice felt crucial.

DECIDING MY MAJOR:

As college applications loomed, I grew stressed not knowing my path, a feeling many high schoolers share. A simple Google search for “careers in the business side of theatre” introduced me to terms like producing, theatre management, and casting. That’s when I discovered performing arts management—a perfect fit that encompassed the business side of the industry.

My gut told me this was it, but I wasn’t sure if such specific programs existed. Another Google search for “performing arts management major colleges” led me to schools like the University of Michigan, NYU, and DePaul, each offering unique approaches. Many programs focus on different areas—music, dance, film—but my interest in theatre helped me narrow my options significantly.

THE APPLICATION PROCESS:

Writing applications can seem daunting. The application process is lengthy and requires plenty of writing and revising. Reminding myself how it could potentially pay off helped me to stay persistent and engaged.

The application at every school looked different. Most universities had me submit a general application, like all of the other applicants, and then a separate application to the theatre school. For the theatre school applications, some asked me to submit headshots and resumes, while others asked for portfolios or additional supplemental writing-- or even a combination of all of those things. I kept a list of what each school expected of me, to make sure I was on track to complete everything by the college's deadline.

When applying, it was helpful to specifically discuss certain professors and classes that I hoped to learn from at each university. That way, I was showing interest in the college and their offerings. 10-20 minutes of research per college informed me on information to discuss In each application essay. This research made it easier to write each essay as well because I could formulate the essays around the research.

While applications take time, there were many tips and tricks online that made the writing process easier for me. As the oldest child, I often listened to my friend's older siblings or the internet for application advice.

SELECTING A COLLEGE:

When it came time to chose a college, I knew it would be important to consider the broader things I wanted in a university. I knew I wanted a college with good sports, a wide variety of clubs, and a good alumni network. Choosing where to apply was based on my academic interests, while selecting which college I would attend became about my social desires within the college. Since I knew I wanted a college with a rigorous theatre school that had options for me to pursue my interests outside of theatre, the University of Michigan was the perfect option for me. Once I found out that I was accepted, I knew I was in love. And after visiting, I knew that UofM was the college for me.

ADVICE FOR YOU:

1. The Broadway World, Theatre College Program Guide - This is a helpful resource for students wanting to navigate the college selection process specifically within theatre.

2. Try not to compare yourself to others. It’s so easy to get caught up in comparing yourself to others—who got into where, who’s applying to which schools, or how many extracurriculars someone else has on their resume.

3. Remember, everyone's experience with the college application process is different. What works for you might not work for another person.

4. Find ways to combine your passions through research about minors, clubs, classes, and more. Schools offer so man ways to make your education as interdisciplinary as you want it to be.

5. Show your interest in the school by reaching out to alumni, professors, and advisors. Talking to someone who's been through the program can give you a clearer picture of what to expect.

6. Take breaks and give yourself grace. The application process can seem overwhelming, so make sure to step back, breathe, and recharge when it all feels too much.

7. Keep an open mind. You might discover a program you hadn't considered before could end up being a good fit. Be curious and explore beyond your initial list.

8. Celebrate the small wins. Completing a personal statement of finalizing your list of schools is equally as big of a deal as getting into a college. Recognize and celebrate your progress along the way!

When all is said and done, the college application process for future theatre professionals is different than the average process. Not many people understand how important it is to pick a college that suits your incredibly niche professional interests as well as your social interests. Once you find the perfect fit, the relief feels worth the months of effort dedicated to applying to college. My hope for the next generation is to pursue what excites you and what sparks your passions. Be open to new experiences and find ways to combine your various passions. After all, that's why college is so important.