Interlochen truly is a unique experience. There is a strong sense of community between faculty, students and staff. All of this combined with an intensive arts edcuation and challenging academic classes makes the Academy different than most boarding schools. None can compare to the level of achievement found in Joseph Maddy's "Northern Pines." With dance, music, theater and visual art, there is always something that appeals to the senses. There are countless ways for students to express themselves while collectively producing great performances practically every weekend. Expectations are high among students which I beleive reinforces real life values important for success after boarding school. The students leave Interlochen well-rounded with knowledge and skills that will help throughout life's journey.

I feel like Interlochen opened doors that would of otherwised remained closed. I made connections with wonderful people from around the world! Thepeople were the best thing to happen to me at IAA. Hearing about any of my fellow Interlochenites, whether i knew them well or not, makes me smile.

I would of appreciated each day more. Advice? Remember all good things will come to and end, so try not to take them for granted. College wasn't nearly as rewarding!

Overall, the awesome people were the best part. People from around the world and all walks of life go to school at IAA. The cultural experience is tremendous.

Go to as many performances, readings, and shows as possible. Get to know your classmates and stay in touch with them. I lived in TJ...really liked the convience of being next to the cafeteria, especially in negative degree weather.

There are so many wonderful profs and so many good classes. Usually the upper level classes were more in-depth and adventurous. My favorite was "Destiny in World Lit." with Howard Hintze. Mr. Dean was also a favorite.

There was a physical fitness course. There were also chances for organized games such as the teacher vs. student basketball game. (teachers always won) The academy is surrounded by acres of woods, so there are plenty of options for outdoor activites.

Interlochen provided top notch arts arts education. I don't have enough space to due an appropriate description. Check out the website.

Students were required to work two hours of community service a week. We also spent earth day cleaning campus. There were so many extracurricular due to the nature of the school.

Comfortable. There were coing laundry machines in my dorm room. The rooms were small, buta good prep for college.

Usual cafeteria food including a vegetarian option and salad/cereal bar. However, the view of "Duck Lake" is breath taking.

Traverse City is the nearest town. On Sunday is a free church bus into town, and then another on Monday. This area of Michigan is lovely with many eclectic shops and cafes downton.

Socially, everyone knew everyone else. The school provided many activities on the weekends for us to interact. We had dances, bingo night (yes this acutally was fun), and other such events. Not to metion performances. Somtimes there were off campus ski trips or camping trips.