ivy or acting school?

KKSuperstar
Sat, 31 Aug 2013 17:32:41 +0000

I have the same dilemma as you! I’m 15 and I am also a Junior. I was opting for Juilliard (big dreams). But the idea has become more unappealing to me, since I’m being more realistic and chances are IF a spot is secured you might not make it.
That’s why I’ve been looking at the Ivies more and more! I’m obsessed with Ivy League schools and I just want to have the best education possible; yet Acting (Drama) is what I live and breathe.
And I think pursuing a school that combines both is the best option. Many notable actors have been to Ivy League schools and gotten their credentials in the Arts. Yet, they have a sufficient amount of education in another field (that can serve as a Plan B)
Yale is an amazing school and there are many great opportunities but I would not really recommend it; I would go with Brown University (an excellent Ivy League)for the following reasons:

1. Top Notch academic programs and a very good, diverse and free-range Theater Arts Program

2. Yale tend to place more emphasis on theory rather than actual practical work

3. Brown is in Rhode Island- NEW YORK CITY. Prime opportunity for acting dreams and tons of great exposure.
You can have the best of both worlds at both Yale AND Brown. But my heart leans toward Brown because it allows me to dabble in my other passions- Modern Studies (Literature, History, Languages) etc. while having a good Theater Arts program to balance it all out and great exposure and potential in my field.
Also, Brown allows its students to host many self-written plays and puts on several performances etc.
I recommend that you check out their website and hear what others have to say about them. I have been experiencing the same dilemma and Juilliard and other solely Theatrical schools do not offer as many back-up plans.
Hope this helps! Let me know how it works out :)