American Academy of Dramatic Arts - New York Summary

Again....I have not yet began classes at the academy.

I am new to the department and begin training this coming fall. I feel im not fit to give judgement on a department that i havent offically attended but what i can say is the falculty has been very kind and helpful with any questions that i may have

The greatest thing about this school is there is no messing around. The faculty is here to make you get your money's worth. The more effort you put in (and i stress this a lot) the more you'll get from the program. The curriculum is very demanding and very fast paced which does give you a feel of what it will be like in the real world. And the teachers do really help you but they don't hold your hand, it's very much self-discovery. Everyone here is here for the same reason - acting so there is no added pressure to be something your not and its a very healthy growing environment. The school is really old and really cool to work in, each day you can gain more appreciation for its history and its legacy. They give you many opportunities to establish connections and let agents see you perform at the end of your year and they give you insight on acting as a business.

This school definitely gave me more money than the larger universities but it is incredibly expensive and I could have used a lot more financial help than given especially since its only a two year program. The fact you live in the city is also exciting but extremely expensive so it would have been nice to receive more money because of that. and lastly there is no food program so you have to shop for yourself which also is very unkind to your wallet, especially living in the city.

The school is great for a large range of actors in different stages of their process. The teachers are all working, experienced actors that have a lot to offer, it really is up to the student to get the most out of the program. I do believe it isn't a program for people that are unsure about their dedication to this profession because it really drags your classmates down. The downside is that there is some lack of communication between the students and the school and at times it can seem not too organized but it is a great program. The curriculum is fast passed and the work load is pretty rigorous. We have a great success rate after graduation most of the really great students are working actors both on stage and film, the alumni list is pretty amazing. The classes are all chosen for you which is good and bad, where as I loved them all it puts everyone on the same field when some students are better than others. Overall great school, great experience.