This is the question I get more than any other — Am I good enough?  Or some variation of, like….

How do I know if I am good enough?  Why won’t anyone tell me if I am good enough? Or even, everyone says I am so great – but am I really?

The answer is — you’re probably good enough!  So yes, there is a college for you. However, you HAVE to be realistic!  There are hundreds and hundreds of colleges out there where you can major in the visual or performing arts.  And by that, I mean there’s not just the same 10.  Everyone keeps insisting on applying to the same colleges, and guess what? With such a highly competitive group of applicants, most people don’t get in….and this is not how you want to end your senior year!!

So what should you do?  Well firstly, consider your options.  There are a variety of programs to choose from — Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Bachelor or Music (BM) — and each program differs from school to school. There are some programs where all of the students enter into the BA program (even though they audition), and there are some BFA programs that do not require an audition. There are places where you can get a fantastic arts education “on the side,” while majoring in Biology or English.  At the same time, there are some schools where you can major in Painting, or another studio art, but you’re also able take classes in lab sciences. There are so many options that you really have the freedom to make it your own!

You are the consumer.  You are going to college, and there are many options for you.   Yes, some of the schools will accept 18 students out of 1500 applications.  But, more than 65% of some really terrific programs, will accept you gladly with open arms if they think you really want to attend.  And you do, right?

You don’t have to go to a certain college to “make it” (I will elaborate on this in a future post) — but you need to stay connected to your ‘arts world.’  If your school doesn’t offer photography, or voice lessons, or ensembles, then be sure to find a way to continue your passions.  That could mean taking private lessons on the side, taking a drawing course at a local museum, or joining a dance studio in the nearest town or city.  Whatever path you choose, be sure to make it work for you!

You are just starting out — spread your wings, look around, breathe, take classes, meet new friends, and know that there are thousands of schools, and most them would LOVE to have you as part of their student body.