Need Recommendations for Top Drama Schools

I'm a junior now and I've been really passionate about drama since I was a kid. Thinking about making it my major, so where should I be applying? What are the top schools for drama?

There are numerous excellent programs for those interested in a drama major. Here are a few well-regarded ones you might want to consider:

1. The Juilliard School: Known to be one of the most prestigious performing arts schools in the world, it has an excellent drama program which emphasizes a deep understanding of text, character, and personal investigation.

2. Tisch School of the Arts at New York University: Here, you'll get hands-on experience along with theory classes. New York City offers tremendous exposure to the theatre scene making this a fantastic choice.

3. Yale University: Yale's drama program is highly competitive but with renowned faculty and connections to the well-respected Yale Repertory Theater, it's worth considering.

4. Northwestern University: With its School of Communication Theater Major, Northwestern offers emphasis on theater as a cultural institution and an interdisciplinary art.

5. Boston University: BU’s School of Theater creates artists qualified for stage, film, and television in the US and abroad. They offer BFA degrees in several areas including theater arts, stage management, and theater design & production.

6. Carnegie Mellon University: Known for its BFA in Drama program, students receive rigorous conservatory training grounded in a broad liberal arts education.

7. University of Southern California: USC's School of Dramatic Arts offers BA and BFA programs that provide a balanced, comprehensive undergraduate education in every facet of the art and business of drama.

Each of these schools has selective admissions and you will likely need to audition, so start preparing early. Your portfolio or audition should demonstrate your passion and skill for drama. Ensure to look at the specific application requirements for each program as well.

It's also important to note that being in a city with a thriving theater scene could provide you with more opportunities, like internships, connections, and exposure to a variety of performances. That's why schools in NYC or LA are often popular for drama.

But remember, the best school is the one that fits you best, not the one that ranks best on paper. Consider class size, professors, extracurricular opportunities, the general campus environment, and so on when deciding where to apply.

Good luck with your college search and applications!