Joining Performing Arts Groups Even If You're Not a Major

Universities do not want to admit "Robots."

If your resume is just Math 7, Math 8, Physics 8, and Chem 11, you look smart, but one-dimensional.

Top tier universities (especially the Ivies and private schools like USC) look for "well-roundedness." They want the engineer who plays the cello. They want the biologist who acts in Shakespeare.

Santa Monica College has one of the best performing arts programs in the nation, centered around the world-class Broad Stage. Participating in the arts here isn't just a hobby; it's professional training.

1. Music: The "Orchestra Logic"

If you played an instrument in high school, DO NOT STOP.

Colleges invest millions in their orchestras. They need oboe players. They need violas. If you are a STEM major who also plays the Oboe, you are solving a staffing problem for the university.

The Classes:

• Music 74 (SMC Jazz Band): Very competitive, plays festivals.
• Music 78 (Jazz & Commercial Music): For smaller combos.
• Music 55 (Concert Chorale): Large choir, often open to non-majors.
• Music 59 (Chamber Choir): The elite vocal group.

Auditions usually happen the week before the semester starts. Check the department website. Even if you aren't a music major, you can (and should) join.

2. Threatre: Not Just Acting

You don't have to be on stage to be in theatre.

Th Art 50 (Advanced Production - Technical) is the crew. They build the sets, run the lights, and manage the sound.

Why it helps engineers:
Technical theatre is engineering. You are building load-bearing structures (sets), managing complex electrical systems (lighting), and solving real-time physics problems.
An Engineering major who says "I lead the set construction crew for the spring musical" is demonstrating applied engineering skills in a high-stress environment.

3. Dance: The Stress Reliever

SMC has a phenomenal dance program, including the world-renowned Synapse contemporary company.

But you can also take Dance 31 (Ballet 1) or Dance 14 (Beginning Modern Jazz) just for fitness and mental health.

The Mental Health Narrative:
In your essays, you can discuss how dance serves as your "release" valve from the pressure of your academic load. It shows emotional maturity and self-regulation—knowing how to take care of your brain by using your body.

4. The "Audition" Reality Check

Many performance groups require an audition. Don't let that scare you.

Choirs: Often just check that you can match pitch (sing a note back to them).
Community Bands: Often open to anyone who owns an instrument.

Even if you don't get into the top ensemble, there is usually a "B-Band" or a "Community Choir" that accepts everyone. Start there, take lessons, and move up next semester.

Summary

Arts students are some of the most tight-knit communities on campus. If you are struggling to make friends in a 100-person Psych 1 lecture hall, join the choir.

You will instantly have 40 friends who you see twice a week. You will have a "home base" (the music building). And you will have a transcript that says "I am a complete human being," not just a GPA machine.

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