Interlochen Center for the Arts

Interlochen was founded in 1928 and is located in beautiful northwest lower Michigan. Each year, thousands of artists and arts patrons come to Interlochen to experience world-class educational and cultural opportunities. Students study music, theatre, visual arts, film, creative writing and dance, guided by an outstanding faculty and guest artists, and inspired by the scenic beauty of our campus. Interlochen Center for the Arts engages and inspires people worldwide through excellence in educational, artistic and cultural programs, enhancing the quality of life through the universal language of the arts

As academic counselors we realize that each student's educational experiences and personal uniqueness is distinctive, so advising is specifically tailored for the individual. The counselor’s primary responsibility is to guide the student’s journey through his/her years at Interlochen. There are many parts to this responsibility. Although registering a student for classes is commonly thought as an counselor’s sole responsibility, we realize that our role is more than registration.

For young artists, nothing is better than living and learning alongside others who share a passion for the creative. Students have countless opportunities to perform and share their work with others. In turn, they enjoy and learn from the work of their peers, who are some of the most dedicated young artists in the world. With support and encouragement from friends, faculty and well-known guest artists, Academy students find time for self-discovery and growth. They find a place where they can be themselves. The campus is a safe, residential setting where students learn independence and self-reliance sooner than their peers attending other schools - a real advantage when preparing for college.

Despite their busy schedules, students still find time to have fun and develop friendships that last a lifetime. Deep conversations over dinner in Stone Cafeteria, impromptu jam sessions, weekly "coffeehouses" performances, walk through the woods, enjoying a guest artist performance and organized off-campus trips - these are some of the ways students can relax and enjoy the company of their friends and fellow artists.

Comprehensive college-preparatory classes prepare students for future success—in any field. Students attend class from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day, merging accelerated academic instruction with intensive artistic studies. Arts and academic instructors collaborate to provide a holistic approach to learning where math, science, history and literature complement a student's creativity. The academic faculty use students' strengths as creative learners to develop greater appreciation for academic subjects. The process opens students' eyes to the sciences and humanities while preparing them for the rigors of the world's most competitive colleges and universities.