Six hundred and fifty one students have joined the incoming freshman Class of 2015 at VCU School of the Arts (VCUarts). As a group, the class represents a cross-section of talent, creativity, socio-economic backgrounds, cities and countries, interests, and cultures that VCUarts values.
“We’re really excited about the diversity and originality of this incoming class,” says Erin Neff, associate director for undergraduate admissions. “They bring a fresh perspective and a unique enthusiasm with them.”
Students from outside of Virginia represent 28 U.S. states and territories, with the largest numbers from Maryland, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. International students come from China, South Korea, and Vietnam. Among American students, 37 percent are students of color with 58 Asian Americans, 94 African Americans, 42 Latinos, and 1 Native American. The class is 74 percent female and 26 percent male.
The average SAT score (math and reading combined) for the class is 1119. The students averaged 25 on the super scored ACT, 14 percent above the national average. The average high-school GPA of the class is 3.68.
Arts admissions committees consider multiple factors when reviewing applications, including the strength of the student’s academic history, the student’s personal statement, essays, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and artistic talent
This year’s class includes those who have volunteered with special education students, the Special Olympics, and an orphanage in Guatemala; worked on anime conventions, as designers, stage managers, and editors; directed short films, danced with Alvin Ailey and American Dance Festival, and played in numerous school and community ensembles and choirs; studied abroad in Costa Rica, participated in artist residency programs; started a gay-straight alliance club; played lacrosse and captained the Varsity Swim team; served as the class vice president and have been selected for Order of the Arrow (the national honor society of the Boy Scouts of America), among other achievements.
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