Reply to Why emphasize arts, theatre, etc when looking at colleges?

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]OP: it’s not that I’m advocating vocational training. I get the value of learning how to read, write, think critically, problem solve. And I see the fringe benefit of art stuff as a fun and healthy activity. But where the arts oriented people lose me is when they choose one school over another based on the arts programming as opposed to variables that may have a more significant long term impact. Like choosing a less reputable school because there are good pottery classes. It just seems that these things are nice to have but for $320k maybe they don’t matter that much and you should be focused on other factors? [/quote]

You know, I wanted to believe that you asked the original question out of real curiosity and desire to learn about other people. People replied and explained, and your response is to double down and explain why you’re right and they’re wrong.

Seriously, no one is trying to convince you to value the arts as part of a college experience. No one cares whether you value it. Why do you care that others value it? Are you just desperate for something to judge other people about? Good lord.[/quote]
The tell is the idea that people are "choosing a less reputable school because there are good pottery classes."  [/quote]

OP: I’m obviously demonstrating a bit of proletarian disdain for the arts here, but I guess from a practical point of view, when I read things like my DS really wants a strong theatre program or something like that, I’m just thinking to myself - come on- high school is over, a man has to focus on making a living now. I totally appreciate that people have hobbies and interests but, I don’t know, you gotta focus on getting from A to B. That’s just my mindset. Thinking about the quality of art offerings feels frivolous but look, it’s not my wheelhouse. And btw I collect art and appreciate art. I guess I am just focused more on my kids being well positioned to get ultimately good jobs out of this whole college thing and be on a strong career trajectory. I’ve seen people get distracted by their passions and then have nothing to show for it [/quote]

So you don't really value art or theater or music, etc.  You say you do but actions speak loudly to indicate you don't....you don't think anyone should actually follow their passion, but should instead "focus on making a living".  I know plenty of people who make a living in the arts.  They are happy and thriving.  They may not be wealthy but they are rich in life.  And they all make a decent living and support themselves just like everyone else.

Next, most people can focus on two or more things while at college.  My own kid is BME and CS double major (at a T30), and almost minoring in dance as well (will have everything except the required "stage managing 2 shows" by graduation time).  If they didn't have this creative outlet, they would be miserable.  I'd much rather they spend a lot of their free time at dance and with dance friends than just hanging at frat parties (trust me that happens too, but not as much when you have 2 time consuming majors and a minor/time consuming hobby).   Interestingly, over 75% of the dance majors/minors at their school are also STEM (Engineering/premed).  People can enjoy one passion and also focus on another that is the degree they really want to use for a career.  [/quote]

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