University of the Arts

Date: Feb 25 2010
Major: Perfomance Arts (This Major's Salary over time)
Don't let the negative reviews fool you, the people that hate this school are the people that don't take the opportunities offered and give 100% to their classes. I am an Acting major almost done with my Freshman year here at UArts and I know I am exactly where I need to be. I could not ask for a more supportive group of instructors and equally supportive (and remarkably talented) peers. This school is absolutely abounding with creativity, and, if you make an effort to find them (get involved in shows, go to some of the cool classes you hear about) it is also full of extremely gifted young people who are eager to collaborate their mediums (all styles of dance, different visual work, design/tech, directing, writing, instruments, singing, and acting) together in class and extracurricularly.

The downsides are a high tuition, no cafeteria, and a maintenance staff that's not always reliable. However, there is nothing negative to say about the education. Teachers here are honest, eager to help, process-loving, ingenious artists, most of whom are working hard in their fields, so they are full of advice and a window into the industry. For people interested in the Acting program, it is extremely Meisner-based. This is not for everyone, but the students that totally commit to the technique absolutely blow you away with how honest and intense their work is. Upper class men are very easily approachable (surprisingly enough) and all about helping lower class men.

Our campus is Broad Street, and Philadelphia is a wonderful city to live in, ESPECIALLY at this period of time, what with the Fringe Festival, all of the superb local theatre, the professional shows that come through, and all of the experimental theatre that's starting to take hold in Philly. UArts reflects Philly's styles and projects and thus is also filled with interesting collaborations, good shows, and is just beginning to try out some of the experimental theatre.

In general, this is a wonderful experience educationally. A lot of our alum have gone on to do really cool projects in and out of the Philly area.

Socially, I could not ask for a better group of friends, who support my endeavors whole heartedly. The school is full of really smart kids with really innovative ideas. There's always a party on the weekend if you ask around, but there's so much to do in the city—shows, concerts (with lots of student discounts), fun restaurants and shops and beautiful parks, you can always find something to do if the party scene's not for you.

Coming to this school was the best decision of my life.