Advice about college visits

MTHeaded
Wed, 09 Aug 2006 11:31:01 +0000

A year ago at this time, we were beginning to plan some visits. Having made some of those trips, I can tell you that they can have a huge effect on your child! Our visits consisted mainly of a one night stay, seeing the college town that evening, perhaps a production as well which can tell you a great deal about the talent and training as well as facilities. The next day we visited the campus. We are located where we could drive to most of these schools which helps. At some we took the guided tour, but with all that you can learn on line, we found out that we actually enjoyed roaming by ourselves seeing what we wanted to see. As a result of these visits, D learned what kind of setting she wanted, that she absolutely did not like one of the ivies that we thought would be #1 on her list, and found a safety she loves!!! Our plan now involves auditioning only for the schools that she really likes which means a lot less stress for all of us this year. She has learned too that she doesn’t want a conservatory approach and prefers a well-rounded college education. She knows that she would rather go to a school she loves, than settle for a school just because it has a BFA in MT. She has asked herself some tough questions that needed to be dealt with before entering this audition season. Our trips were a valuable learning experience and have certainly had a major effect on her future! I suggest you do what you can, when you can!