If you've been to Interlochen Arts Boarding School?

Question

How many years did you go and what major where you in? What classes did you take in all? What did you do outside of classes? What should I be looking forward to and work on before I go?

Answer 1

Hello! You are going to love every minute of your experience at Interlochen!

I went to IAA for my senior year of high school. I play the flute, and was in the band / music major.  As a senior I did not have to take that many classes to officially graduate, so I don't remember the number.  I had to take a few academics like English, and a political science.  Being a music major I had band class, private flute lessons, flute studio class, theory and sightsinging class, and I also took a dance class, and theater class.  So, as I senior and having more free time as far as classes go I was able to take the dance and theater as electives.  

Outside of classes?  Honestly, there was not a ton of free time.  You will probably have homework, and for me, as a flute player, I was required to practice so much to be prepared for my lessons each week.  But if we didn't have anything to do, we had total freedom within the confinement of the campus.  There is the beautiful lake behind the dorms, and lots of woods and greenery to take a walk. We could go and visit other friends in their dorm rooms.  Once a week, we had the option to go into town to go to the local mall to do any shopping we might need.  

Be prepared for the COLD weather! I came from Texas, and had never been in snow, and it was so beautiful, but also very cold, day after day.  Also, you should try and get ahold of some of those rubber boots to wear out in the snow. It gets very slushy, muddy, and even icy in spots so wearing any type of smooth bottom shoes.... and you are going to fall down.  Also bring enough clothes to layer and stay warm.  When I went they cleared out a little field and froze it over as an ice skating rink, which was really fun! I would not go their without a camera, there is beauty outside everyday.  

There have been a lot of upgrades and changes since I was there, but I believe you get a phone and internet in your room. Not sure about a fridge or other small appliances. We couldn't have tv's in the room when I was there.  I would bring a stash of snacks and goodies. Because they only have meals at certain times, and you may want something additional late at night.  

You did not mention what you are going there for, but as a flute player and musician, when I first got there we had to do an audition with the flute teacher and maybe one other teacher. This is how they ranked us in the bands.  So, I would definitely be prepared with a solo piece of work. Also, I believe they made us sightread a piece of music.  

Otherwise, I would be prepared for an AMAZING experience! You are going to meet people from all over the US, and maybe 20+ countries. Some of the students cannot even speak english very well.  But I found it to be very motivating to be around students who were all of my caliber of seriousness with their expertise.

Please feel free to contact me at [e-mail] if you have any additional questions that I can help you with.

Thanks for reading!