Freshman Answering Questions

bg4260
Tue, 22 Jan 2013 23:50:06 +0000

Abaxter15 - so, during our orientation, they actually had a fun little Q&A sesh about the admissions process for DW. Basically, it’s fairly competitive - there were something like 260 applicants and there are 48 students in my grade. But it’s important to remember that they’re NOT looking for perfection - they stressed this like crazy - they want to see a unique voice, clear passion, and potential for growth. They said there were applications where the writing was “absolute ****,” but the student was admitted because they had a clear voice and seemed like they would grow well in the program. They also pointed out that there were crazy-talented applicants who weren’t qualified academically for NYU and were rejected or waitlisted. This isn’t a great general statistic, but my PERSONAL situation was as follows: I studied playwriting/screenwriting throughout high school and, I THINK, submitted a fairly strong portfolio. My academic numbers weren’t STELLAR - in high school I had a 3.22 unweighted GPA, but a 2140 SAT and 32 ACT. I was admitted regular decision. Since you’re a sophomore, I’d say study up, work hard, read plays, watch good films, and figure out your style. Also, don’t get TOO caught up in the idea of a “dream school” - you never know what you’re going to end up wanting at the end of the day (I almost didn’t apply to NYU because I wanted to go to UMich SO badly and didn’t think I cared about other schools - I got into both and ended up here at NYU and am happy as a clam). ALSO, since it seems like you’re really into the program, feel free to PM me and I can add you on Facebook or something haha.

@elnamo - honestly, I’m not SUPER into the whole science front, so I may not have the best possible answer, but from what I understand, NYU’s scientific programs are pretty great, especially their school of neuroscience. I have a floormate with a bio major who seems pretty content with/challenged by his classes.