Billy Elliot the Forum

Happy Birthday Jacob!!

I hope you have a terrific celebration!

Congrats to Jacob on his acceptance into Yale University!

https://twitter.com/jacobclemente1/stat ... 8306857985

One at Princeton, and now one at Yale, not to mention one at Ohio State. Obviously, there are some very smart Billys out there.

It is an important issue. And the evidence is there:

Tutoring works. On set; on tour.

I would expect the life experience of acting adds to the equation.

It would be an interesting study for an educational researcher.

Although I would add this question:

Is the outcome better in the less rigid/more flexible North American system of secondary education, or in the UK system, with its rigid GCSE curriculum and examinations occurring soon after a youngster leaves the cast?

I think that one answer is that performing kids in the UK tend to go on to train in performing arts schools; whereas, in the US, university is a more common way to go before beginning a professional career in performing arts. Not always, but much more likely.

However, since this is actually Jacob's thread, we need to focus on him. I'm sorry that I led us slightly off topic.

Universities aren't only looking for super smart people(though you still need to be smart and driven) they will also give you extra concideration for other talents, EXTREME extra conciderstion for say sports but also in the arts for good schools...and let's admit it the Billys have quite the resume already.the USA does have its performance arts schools but I think we just value a more rounded education for all so the universities here fight way harder to grab those students.

Again, let's get back to Jacob since this is his thread.

High School Senior Jacob Clemente offers advice to at-risk Middle School pupils in the Albany Times Union:

http://www.timesunion.com/news/article/ ... 223028.php

He is one of six seniors whom Columbia High School Principal John Sawchuk calls the district's "dream team" for leadership and mentoring. For four years, Sawchuk has led "Operation Courage." This year's a four-day program on cultural awareness included guest speakers and training workshops.

What a wonderful story! Kudos to Jacob for using the experience of his own struggles to help others.

Jacob tweeted today that he will be attending Yale University in the Fall. Another Ivy League Billy

https://twitter.com/jacobclemente1/stat ... 0073984000