Covering the business of education and training

Actors, artists, dancers, musicians and writers can get degrees, too.

But unlike their 'rational' friends, they have other things to consider besides, SAT tests, essays, FAFSAs and application forms.

Ten questions all wannabe waiters/resses, er, artists should ask?

1. Is an audition required? Art or writing portfolio?

2. Are courses offered at all levels or after certain general ed requirements are met and a screening process is successfully passed?

3. Can the field be minored in, not just majored?

4. Are double majors possible?

5. Can dance, music, writing, art classes be taken without declaring it a major?

6. What are the possibilities for recitals, exhibitions, shows?

7. Are performances limited only to upper classmen?

8. Are there opportunities to speak to current students to learn about faculty and whether or not real progress is made in the program?

9. Are there enough practice rooms, studios?

10. Who of note has gone through the program?

11. Are there local facilities, clubs, pubs, galleries, theatres that cater to the major?

12. Does the school have industry contacts?

13. Do faculty strut their stuff?

14. Do guest artists make the rounds at the school? Who? How often?

Are there questions I missed?

Please feel free to add on.

What do you wish you had asked before deciding on the art program you are in?