Backstage with Tracee
As I create this new community through Muse College Consulting, I am very excited to share my experience, wisdom, and knowledge so I can continue to support students and their families as they embark on the performing arts admissions journey. Each post, I am going to give you a peek backstage and provide tips, tricks and advice that support you. YES, this process can feel overwhelming and daunting, AND I am going to ease your fears and most importantly, showcase how applying to college can be fun.
This week let’s talk about the summer before senior year. First, breathe…one more big breath…and read this out loud—This is my summer to plan, explore and get organized. I do not need to have my entire future figured out. If necessary, repeat that a few more times. If you are planning on applying to performing arts programs, fall is going to be busy on top of busy because your part-time job will be the college application process. You will also be navigating senior year, extracurricular activities that very likely take up after school and evening hours (rehearsals, tech, etc), a job, navigating relationships with partners, and/or feeling all the feels about this being your last year in high school. It’s going to be a lot, take another deep breath.
Here’s the great news—if you get organized this summer, you are going to reduce so much stress in the fall because you have a plan. Now you might be asking, how do I even begin. Never fear, my top 5 tips will make it clear:
Decide what programs/majors you are interested in applying for.
Make a list of states/areas where you might want to live for the next 4 years.
Determine which schools in those areas have programs you are interested in.
Narrow your list to 20 schools or less.
Create a spreadsheet with admissions requirements and deadlines.
I recommend that you dedicate up to one hour of thought/work in each of these areas. Be honest with yourself, consider the ‘why’ behind your decisions, and remember that you can continue to change your mind as you go as long as you feel confident in your plan by fall. This is a personal journey, and you should be mindful to not let negative ideas or opinions influence your process. Surround yourself with people who care about you and support you. This is your journey and your future.
My role as a mentor and advisor is to help students navigate the college search process, provide tools, dispel myths, and explain what happens in depth behind the scenes in the performing arts admissions process. Reach out to me any time if you want to learn more about the work we can do together and stay tuned for more backstage tips. Remember to be bold, brave and confident!