The Elision Institute - Performing Arts College Fair Tips

A catalyst for evolution and growth in the training and support of musicians.

Performing Arts College Fair Tips
By Janis Weller

Before You Go

Go online to http://www.nacac.com/exhibit/fair2.cfm and check to see what Fairs are in your area (or close by). Hotels, driving directions, and parking options are also listed.
Plan a strategy—do you want to go alone? With friends (can be distracting), or with a parent? Ask your teacher(s) for ideas too.
Bring the following information on a set of printed labels to make it easy to get on mailing lists:
          First Name              Last Name
          Address
          City, State, Zip
          Email
          Instrument/voice      planned music major
          Year of High School graduation
Jot down schools you want to check out and questions you have.

Attending the Fair

Arrive on time (or a little early), well rested and well fed. The Fair will get crowded and noisy. It’ll also be an exciting view into what’s out there!
Pick up your bag of materials. Scan the list of schools, marking those you’re interested in, and prioritize. Visit tables in priority order.
Only take printed materials that really interest you, but don’t be shy.
Ask lots of questions, especially at schools high on your list.
Parents—you might want to accompany your student and see what schools she/he is attracted to and/or you might want to split up and each ask your own questions.

After the Fair

Take some time to sort through all the goodies you picked up. Were there any surprise discoveries? Disappointments? New schools you want to investigate further?
Check out websites of your favorite schools for more information.
Look through the materials of various schools to compare entrance requirements, curriculum offerings, special programs, faculty, etc. Consider practical issues like location, cost, accommodations, academics, college life, and so on.
Start narrowing down your options, and plan visits to your top choices.