Admissions

Talk to the students and tutors; that's a great way to actually find out what you're in for here. Also, really explore the campus. Don't be scared. Wander around the classroom buildings if you get the chance. Check out the fine arts bulidings, cause every room has a piano and a few have sheet music laying around. Also, one room tends to have several other insstruments... not that I know that. Check out the library too, we have a pretty cool selection if you ask me. Admittedly it may not be the largest, but I feel it's pretty diverse. On top of that, I think a lot of the books in our library are representative of the types of topics that are focused on here at campus. Every program book is available in the library, and many books about topics related are there as well. If you like the books in the library, it could be a small sign that this campus has got the right vibe for you. But anyway, I really encourage you to talk to some students and tutors. Also check out all the buildings you can, and imagine waking up to this every morning for several months a year. Also check out the swing and lookout point.

Most importantly, visit! The college is unique enough that a visit while it is in session is, in my opinion, critical to deciding if you would like it there. Call the admissions office 2-3 weeks ahead of time to schedule. They put together a fantastic two-day visit package that includes spending a night in the dorms, an informal meeting with a tutor (there are no professors per se), and sitting in on three or four classes. (Tips on auditing classes: you can listen, but you can't speak or sit at the table. Read the assigned seminar readings ahead of time so you can follow the discussion.) The tutors and admissions folks are very nice and laid-back, so there is no need to be stressed about the interviews. Also, be sure to talk to as many students as possible.

If you can, consider attending the Summer Academy for high school students. It's a good opportunity to experience participating in classes and living on campus for a whole week. Also, if you're a high school student in Santa Fe, you can attend any of their community seminars for free. (Those are mainly populated by older adults -- often veterans of the graduate program -- and the dynamic is a bit different, but they also let you get a feel for Johnnie methodology.)

Start getting to know the admissions/financial aid officers now, before you leave everything to the last minute and end up stressing over too much.