Idyllwild Arts Academy - Review #6

IAA was a unique institution because it fostered a learning environment centered around the arts. The small faculty-to-student ratio allowed students to connect with professors and be supported in all aspects of their learning. Keeping everyone on a first-name basis also helped students feel they were at a place where all people are equal.

I think I had many achievements as well as many instances where I did not do so well. I can't think of anything particular because many years have passed but I always felt very supported by the school. The best thing that happened to me was meeting my private cello teacher who still influences my life today.

I would probably say that I could have sought out more opportunities for myself outside of the school. Being an artist means that one has to interact with the world and have the ambition to complete personal projects and deadlines. Kids going to boarding school should realize that they might have to grow up a little faster than other people. There is a lot of responsibility in living alone

What I liked most is that it allowed me to learn and focus on the areas which interested me the most. I improved so much during my studies here. It was also fantastic to learn about so many different kinds of art and meet people from all over the world.

Go on hikes and enjoy the relaxing environment! The Grotto is an amazing sight to see

Academics are tailored to every student. There are required classes, but there are also many classes available that are fun electives that added to my education. Most academics are not very rigorous as the school wants students to focus on their art form but there are also honors classes available to those interested.

There were no organized athletics at IAA. Students could play sports for fun if they would organize it themselves.

These departments are what make IAA special. Going to a place that is so heavily focused on the arts is a very different experience than a typical school. It got me to where I am today. The music department has a very good faculty but there has to be an intrinsic motivation in a student to get the most out of the school. One should also look for more opportunities to perform off-campus whenever possible. Being so far away from major cities means there can be a lack of connection between their learning and the art scene in the real world.

There were many student organizations and volunteer opportunities. I occasionally taught at schools near the campus as volunteer work but otherwise, I was not very involved in the many student organizations. I was very focused on working on myself during my studies here.

Dorm life can be very nice here. Almost every student has a roommate and any issues could be brought up to faculty or a dorm parent. Some dorms could have used a lot more maintenance as they are getting very old, but the larger dorms were great.

The food at the school was honestly pretty good. I remember sometimes the food would get repetitive but the overall quality was great There were many options and a salad bar was always at the center of the food area.

The surrounding town is very small but it was nice to have somewhere to go that was different from campus. There are a few restaurants and little shops to visit. It is a drastic change from city life but it is nice nonetheless. The town is a popular vacation/hiking destination

Because the school is so small, the social life is great. Students are always surrounded by each other and it is easy to make friends and talk to one another. There is a lot of freedom at this school and that helps people get to know each other and bond.