The Juilliard School is widely regarded as one of the best universities at which to study the arts. Specifically, there are degrees offered for dance, drama and music. On March 19, two Dreyfoos students were accepted to The Juilliard School’s undergraduate program for dance: dance seniors Amber Neumeister and Cassidy Spaedt. Only 12 girls are accepted to the program every year. Neumeister and Spaedt had to write an essay, sumbit transcripts, submit test scores, submit letters of recommendation and go to a live audition. After the first live audition, some dancers were called back to complete a second one. Auditions consisted of a ballet technique class, a modern dance technique class, a solo performance, coaching and an interview. According to the Juilliard School website, callback criteria was based on “demonstration of significant prior dance training that has offered an understanding of both technical dance language and body alignment; a high level of strength and stamina; and the physical and artistic potential for a career in dance.”

Juilliard’s impressive list of alumni includes actor Robin Williams, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and choreographer Paul Taylor. According to the Juilliard School website, its alumni have won a combined number of over 105 Grammy Awards, 62 Tony Awards, 47 Emmy Awards, 26 Bessie Awards, 24 Academy Awards, 16 Pulitzer Prizes and 12 National Medals for the Arts. There is no doubt that this will be a fantantistic opportunity; congratulations to Neumeister and Spaedt.