<p>As a student who sounds a bit like this D and has always been top two or three in the class, a year ahead in English, great test scores, varied extracurriculars, etc… this post really bothered me. No, we’re not here to give parenting advice, and yes I am sure the OP of this thread will have some role in paying for her child’s education, but a major in college only defines someone’s career if they allow it to. This mother seems pretty close-minded/unsupportive of her D’s interests if the D is determined to major in theatre. Yes, one can have a theatre life alongside academics, but it is tough at really selective schools. Academics, sleep, and social life are difficult enough to balance without being forced to pursue her primary interest through extracurriculars. To any parents who read this, please remember that just because your child majors in theatre does not mean that they have stars in their eyes or are going to spend their lives eating ramen and trying to scrape together enough money for NYC rent. It could be a legitimate concern for a BFA program- I’m in a somewhat similar situation with my mom, who has ruled out all BFA programs because they’re impractical and limiting. But a BA? The D has a greater chance of regretting not pursuing a theatre major than pursuing one.</p>