Hey, I’m a HS looking at scenic design/production and design programs right now. So far everything has gone really well but I’m trying to narrow down my choices.
Top of my list ATM is Fordham, USC, Michigan, NYU, and Cincinnati. Have been accepted to all of them except NYU and USC (still waiting to hear back).
I’m really looking for a program that has a lot of production opportunities. All schools seemed to have that but if anyone can speak to those programs in that regard I’d love to hear about it.
Also, is the advantage of being in LA/NYC for these programs a big one? I assume so, but there are tons of great programs like Cincinnati and Michigan that aren’t in major markets but are still good programs. I guess I’m just wondering if going to schools in those areas will give me leverage over those who aren’t when it comes to opportunities, internships, networking, etc.
If any of you can speak to your experiences with these schools it would be greatly appreciated :3
My kid is a theater tech student at Fordham, so that’s the program I know most about. It is a BA program, not a BFA program like most of the schools on your list. A BA program ended up being the right fit for my own kid, because it leaves more room for other academics that he was interested in. Fordham has some really talented professors who are working professionals (for example the set design prof is very successful in his career) but I would say that Fordham has a smaller budget, smaller theater spaces, and less in the way of the latest technology. Fordham does have the advantage of being undergrads only, so no need to compete with grad students for jobs. Feel free to PM me with any specific questions, and best wishes!
My child is in a similar situation. They are leaning towards NY/CA. The connections of people you meet never hurt. Those relationships an help get opportunities later assuming hard work and talent are already there. Their older siblings definitely ( in different fields) benefit from connects when it game to grad schools and jobs. It is part of the decision making for them.