How can you balance high school and a rigorous dance schedule?

Many students in competitive dance programs resort to taking online classes so that they can fit school into their rigorous dance schedules. But what if you could find a balance of school and dance, without sacrificing one over the other? I think Interlochen Arts Academy is a great example of this. 

At Interlochen, you’ll have a dedicated block for academics in the morning.Then, the second half of the day is reserved for dance training, practice, and preparing for performances. 

One of their students describes the difference between Interlochen and other options: “If you're still at a home studio, it's like going to a high school and having a full-time job because you're training constantly. It's a lot,” says Maxwell Pfulger, a Dance major at Interlochen. “Being at a boarding school just makes it a lot easier for you, because instructors understand the balance of it. They know you need an education but you also need a dance education. So if you’re feeling overwhelmed at home, I think this is a really great option.”

Attending Interlochen Arts Academy also leads to great opportunities for Dance students. This past fall, several dance colleges and universities held private classes and auditions for Interlochen dance students including: 

• California Institute of the Arts
• Central Michigan University
• Cornish College of the Arts
• George Mason University
• Jacob’s School of Music, Ballet Department at Indiana University
• Mercyhurst University
• School of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre (all Interlochen Dance students were invited to join Ailey’s summer program at the conclusion of the class)
• University of Missouri Kansas City

Arts Academy students have a variety of opportunities after graduation. In fact, 100% of their seniors who attended for 4 years got into one of their top 3 colleges/conservatories last year, and on average their 4-year students receive nearly double the national average in college scholarship awards. 

Interlochen also offers summer dance programs, including 2-6 week sessions or one-week intensives. You’ll have the chance to work with some of the same internationally-trained instructors that teach at Arts Academy, and benefit from visiting guest artists.

Applications are still being accepted for both Interlochen Arts Academy and Interlochen Arts Camp, and you can use code Dance2024 to waive the $65 application fee. Scholarships and financial assistance is available. Learn more at interlochen.org/dance. 

Have you or your child considered attending a boarding arts high school? Leave a message in the comments and let us know!