Navigating the path to CTSA: Q&A with the Arts Peer Academic Advisors

In the exhilarating journey from high school to college, the transition can be both thrilling and overwhelming. For high school students on the brink of making pivotal decisions about their future, the insights and experiences of those who have successfully navigated the maze of college life can be invaluable.

In this Q&A session, we engage with the Claire Trevor School of the Arts Peer Academic Advisors, a group of insightful college students who embody the spirit of CTSA. Here, they share their wisdom and advice to high school students navigating the vast world of higher education. From choosing the right institution to selecting a field of study, these seasoned undergraduates offer a firsthand perspective on the challenges and triumphs of college life, providing a compass for those about to embark on their own academic journey and creative paths.

Image (left to right): Brenna Farrell, Laine Matkin, Daisy Rodriguez

Brenna Farrell

B.A. Dance & B.S. Biological Sciences | Class of 2025

Q: What type of career are you pursuing and how is the Claire Trevor School of the Arts preparing you?

A: I am currently hoping to pursue a career in medicine post-graduation. The School of Biological Sciences program is aiding me in fulfilling all the necessary classes required for application. However, my involvement in CTSA has contributed significantly to my overall development as a more well-rounded student. CTSA has provided me with a creative outlet to escape and work through stress. Engaging in creative processes within the dance program has honed my experience in teamwork, problem-solving, and collaboration. My time at CTSA has played a pivotal role in nurturing my soft skills and deepening my understanding of working effectively with others.

Q: What is your curriculum like and what classes are you passionate about?

A: Dance technique classes encompass various aspects such as dance history, theory, and the exploration of deeper meanings behind the technical aspects of dance, rather than simply dancing for the sake of it. Evaluation in these classes primarily relies on attendance, attitude, and supplemented by some written assignments. Furthermore, apart from our technique classes, we have an extensive array of elective and classroom-based dance courses. These cover a wide spectrum, including music for dancers, kinesiology, Pilates, dance history, dance and video, and many others. The range of courses allows for opportunities to learn and the freedom to explore individual passions and interests, whether it involves performance, choreography, or other artistic ventures. 

Q: Can you describe a project that you have completed at CTSA?

A: One of my favorite parts of being a CTSA student is the abundance of performance opportunities available. Over the past three years, I've actively participated in Dance Visions, our faculty dance show. Rehearsals typically begin in October, leading up to the shows in February. The rehearsal process, while challenging and sometimes tedious, is ultimately so rewarding. I love having the chance to forge closer bonds with my peers as we work together each week toward our long-term goals.

I also serve as a CSAC (Community Student Advising Committee) member. Within this role, we collaborate to address and resolve student concerns by liaising with the chair of the dance department and the undergraduate advisor. The opportunity to contribute towards enhancing the dance department's environment for current and future students has been truly rewarding.

Q: Tell us more about why you decided to double major?

During my high school college search, I knew I wanted to pursue a double major, blending my passion for dance with my interest in science. This search ultimately led me to UCI. Despite not considering a professional dance career, I wasn't ready to let go of dance just yet. I am now working towards my B.A. in dance and B.S. in biological sciences.

As for whether it's easy to pursue both degrees, the short answer is no, but it is achievable. I think my high school experience, managing AP courses alongside a pre-professional training program at my studio, prepared me well for college. Balancing two majors demands time management skills and discipline to ensure everything gets completed on time. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have many friends and peers in the dance program who are pursuing the same two majors. I've always been able to rely on them for advice, study sessions, and overall support. I am positive that I would not be able to handle the stress without the support of my friends and our dance community.

A: What is one piece of advice you would give to a high school student looking to apply to an arts school?

The best piece of advice I would give to a high school student looking to apply to an arts school is to make a list of criteria you seek in an arts program. For instance, I prioritized attending a school offering a variety of techniques instead of focusing solely on a single style. Additionally, I valued having plenty of performance opportunities not limited by class levels, but rather based on auditions. Think about what is a definite requirement, a preference, and a potential deal-breaker for you. However, keep an open mind about things that might seem intimidating. Personally, I have never been much of a Hip Hop dancer. Though I had taken a few classes, the prospect of committing to a year of Hip Hop would have intimidated me from this program in high school. Surprisingly, it's now one of my favorite classes, and I plan to continue to the next level next year. In summary, ensure that a school fulfills your non-negotiables but don't be deterred by new opportunities.

Laine Matkin

Music Theatre & Campuswide Honors Collegium | Class of 2024

Q: What type of career are you pursuing and how is the Claire Trevor School of the Arts preparing you?

A: I either want to get my Ph.D. or go on to be in the professional musical theatre industry; which one I choose will be determined off of summer stock auditions and Ph.D. applications! CTSA has offered me the opportunity to take courses in everything I have an interest in, opening up my future career opportunities to whatever I wish to pursue.

Q: What is your curriculum like and what classes are you passionate about?

A: I have a lot of courses in voice and dance, and senior B.F.A. students also have a course entirely dedicated to doing 30-40 minute versions of musicals. My favorite class at UCI, though, was actually my quantum mechanics class!  

Q: Can you describe a project that you have completed at CTSA?

A: I have worked on both Into the Woods and Cabaret at UCI, which were both mainstage musicals that performed in the Claire Trevor Theatre. I had the wonderful opportunity to perform in an educational space that sought to mimic the professional world, which taught me what I might expect if I continue on to the professional theatre industry.

Q: What is one piece of advice you would give to a high school student looking to apply to an arts school?

A: Take advantage of everything CTSA has to offer! There are so many opportunities for mainstage performances, but also for any independent projects you want to do! Don't be afraid to get assistance from a professor or faculty member to make a show happen if it's your dream!

Daisy Rodriguez

Art & Education Sciences | Class of 2024

Q: What type of career are you pursuing and how is the Claire Trevor School of the Arts preparing you?

A: In the future I would love to become an art teacher. The school is preparing me by allowing me to explore and learn about different art forms I didn't have the opportunity to try when I was in high school. By expanding my knowledge of the arts with the various classes offered here I can then have more knowledge in order to teach my future students. 

Q: What is your curriculum like and what classes are you passionate about?

A: The curriculum, in my opinion, gives a very well-rounded education in the arts. Through the required classes I was able to explore photography and performance art, which is something I wouldn't have even thought of doing. The classes I'm most passionate about are the ones where I'm able to do studio work while learning about other artists.

Q: Can you describe two or three important projects that you have completed at CTSA?

A: One important project, more of a goal, I completed at CTSA was to be able to be involved and join an internship. I was able to join Creative Connections and was given the opportunity to teach art in a classroom. Another project I completed at CTSA was for my art to be seen by others. Even if my artwork was just hung up in a classroom, CTSA makes it easy for students to be able to showcase their art.

Q: Tell us more about why you decided to double major?

A; I never came in with the intention of double majoring, but I really felt passionate about art and education and decided I should try double majoring. It isn't easy in the beginning as classes may conflict time wise, but once you are able to get help with scheduling classes and make a plan it becomes easy. The skills I've gained from double majoring are organization and planning.

Q: What is one piece of advice you would give to a high school student looking to apply to an arts school?

A: I would say to any high school student looking to apply to an arts school, take a look at the curriculum and look for internships and opportunities the school offers. You want to make the most of your time at the school and be sure to go to a school that fits your interests.

More more information and questions and answers, visit the Claire Trevor School of the Arts Student Affairs Office web page. The SA team provides Arts students services in academic counseling, orientation, study plans, transfer course evaluations, schedule changes, and degree checks.