The Question Every Parent Should Ask to Help Guide Their Dancer's College Choice
Discover the one question every dancer should ask before choosing a college—shifting the focus from just dance to a more fulfilling college experience.
As dancers and their families navigate the exciting but often overwhelming world of college auditions and recruitment, it's easy to get caught up in one singular focus: finding the perfect dance program. While the quality of a team, achievements and the caliber of coaching are all essential factors, there’s a critical question that many dancers overlook:
“If I were injured today and could no longer dance, would I still want to attend this school?”
This question has the power to shift the conversation from a dance-centric perspective to a holistic view of what college life should encompass. While your dancer’s love for dance might drive the college search, the decision to attend a school should be about more than just dance.
Moving Beyond Tunnel Vision
After years of working with dancers, I’ve seen many fall into a form of tunnel vision. Their sole focus is often on the prestige of a dance team or the allure of performing at the collegiate level. While understandable, this narrow approach can lead to missed opportunities or, worse, a situation where they feel stuck if their dance journey takes an unexpected turn.
Here are four critical areas dancers and parents should consider when choosing a school:
1. Academic Strength
College is about preparing for life beyond dance. Even the most talented performers need to consider what happens when their dance career ends. Evaluate the school’s academic programs:
Does it offer degrees in fields your dancer is interested in?
Are there resources to help undecided students explore their passions?
How strong is the school in areas outside of dance, like internships, mentorships, and job placement?
Encourage your dancer to view college as an investment in their future—not just their dance career.
2. Campus Environment
A college’s atmosphere can significantly impact your dancer’s happiness and success. Here are a few questions to ask during campus visits:
Does the campus feel welcoming and inclusive?
Are there clubs, organizations, or events that align with their interests outside of dance?
Can they see themselves thriving here socially, emotionally, and mentally?
The right campus culture can be just as important as the dance program itself.
3. Career and Personal Growth Opportunities
A strong collegiate experience goes beyond academics and dance. Look for schools that support personal and professional development:
Are there career centers to help students prepare for life after graduation?
Does the school encourage networking and offer alumni connections?
What opportunities exist for leadership, travel, or community involvement?
These experiences help shape a well-rounded individual and set the stage for success beyond college.
4. Long-Term Personal Goals
Lastly, consider the bigger picture:
Does the school’s location align with your dancer’s lifestyle and long-term goals?
If they imagine their life four years from now, does this school fit into that vision?
Encourage them to choose a school that supports their growth—not just as a dancer but as a person!
Why This Matters
I’ve seen dancers who poured all their energy into making a team, only to find themselves unhappy once they arrived on campus. In some cases, they didn’t connect with the school’s academic offerings or struggled to fit into the campus culture. Others realized that their passion for dance couldn’t carry them through the realities of college life.
By broadening their focus and asking the pivotal question, “If I were injured today and could no longer dance, would I still want to attend this school?”, your dancer can feel confident in their choice. This approach ensures that no matter where their dance journey leads, they’ll find fulfillment in the college experience.
A Final Word for Parents
As a parent, you play a critical role in guiding your dancer through this process. Help them balance their passion for dance with a clear-eyed look at what the next four years could hold. Encourage them to think about their academic interests, social preferences, and long-term goals.
Remember, this decision isn’t just about the dancer they are today—it’s about the person they’ll become. By keeping the big picture in mind, you can help your dancer choose a school that sets them up for success on and off the stage.
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