Which colleges near NYC should I explore?

I'm super interested in colleges near NYC as I'm looking for schools with strong performing arts programs. What colleges should I check out, and what's your take on their arts scenes?

Sure, New York City has a vibrant art scene indeed, and there are several colleges around and in the city that offer strong performing arts programs.

1. Juilliard: A world-renowned performing arts conservatory located in Manhattan. It offers a comprehensive range of programs in music, dance, and drama.

2. New York University (NYU): The Tisch School of the Arts nestled in the heart of downtown Manhattan is highly respected in the fields of theater, film, and dance.

3. Columbia University: The School of the Arts offers an array of programs in film, theater, and visual arts, and the university's location in the city allows for engaging, cultural activities.

4. The New School: It's known for Parsons School of Design and its performing arts school, The College of Performing Arts, which includes the Mannes School of Music, the School of Drama, and the School of Jazz and Contemporary Music.

5. Barnard College: An all-women's college affiliated with Columbia, offers a varied arts curriculum in association with Columbia's School of the Arts.

6. Fordham University: Offers robust theater and dance programs. Its proximity to Lincoln Center makes it a great place for art enthusiasts.

7. Brooklyn College: Part of the larger CUNY system, it's known for a strong theater program and houses the Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts.

8. Purchase College of SUNY: Not quite in NYC, it's located only an hour away, and is known for its Conservatory of Theatre Arts.

From Broadway shows to local performances, the opportunities in and around New York City for budding performing artists are astonishing. Make sure to check each college's audition/portfolio requirements for their arts programs as they can be very different from normal application requirements!