Governor’s School is an opportunity for rising juniors and seniors to focus on and improve on something they are passionate about during summer break. It is a once-in-a-lifetime and formative experience. In just a few weeks, one can gain an abundance of knowledge and skill on something they love, while also creating many strong friendships that will last with people who have similar passions as you from all over Tennessee.
There are many different types of Governor’s School, such as Arts, Agricultural Sciences, Computational Physics, Sciences and Engineering, and more. If you are interested in dance, filmmaking, instrumental music, vocal music, theatre, or visual arts, then Governor’s School for the Arts (or GSFTA) is the choice for you!
GSFTA is usually held during the last three weeks of June at Middle Tennessee State University. You stay in the dorms and get to eat all meals free in the dining halls. The food is great, but you can also choose between one of the many restaurants on campus such as Panda Express or Chick-fil-A. Most days have early mornings and late nights. This time is jam-packed with fun learning experiences. The days for the music program consist of many rehearsals, music theory classes, or another elective class. Almost every night you get to watch a performance. These shows have a wide variety; including orchestras, African drum and dance, plays, faculty showing off their skills, & etc. One of the highlights of the whole experience is getting to see what the other students in other arts have been learning during the three weeks. You do this by watching dance, opera, and symphony performances, going to museums of students’ work, and going to watch students’ films. It is an amazing feeling that cannot be replicated to see other kids your age care so much and work hard for something that they love doing.
Overall, Governor’s School can be life-changing. In a few weeks, one can gain years of experience. You get to work with exceptional professionals and teachers who pass on as much of their knowledge to you as possible. You make many friends and memories you will never forget. It is an experience that I will carry with me forever.
GSFTA applications are open now! If you are interested in applying to any Governor’s School, you can contact your counselor. (You won’t regret it!)
