From Studio to Search Committee: Do’s and Don’ts for MFA Dance Grads Applying to Academia

You’ve just earned your MFA in Dance. Congratulations. That’s no small feat. But now comes the next leap: transitioning from performer-scholar to academic job candidate.

If you're applying for a university teaching position, you might be facing unfamiliar terrain. Search committees. Cover letters. Campus visits. And yes, interviews that begin with “Tell us about a time when…”

Take a breath. You’re not alone. The academic job market can feel intimidating, but it’s not impenetrable. With preparation, authenticity, and a little choreography of your own, you can step into this next chapter with clarity and confidence.

Here are some honest and encouraging dos and don’ts to help you stand out for the right reasons.

DO Tell a Compelling Story
Academic interviews often include questions like “Tell me about a time when…” Instead of summarizing a project, tell a story. Give it shape. Set the scene, explain the challenge, share what you did, and describe the outcome. Select stories that speak to the job description, whether that’s collaboration, DEI initiatives, or curriculum development.

DON’T wing it. Prepare your stories in advance. Say them aloud so you’re not caught off guard. You don’t want to sound rehearsed, but you do want to sound ready.

DO Apply Thoughtfully
Before submitting an application, take a moment to reflect. Do you meet the minimum qualifications? If a position requires three years of teaching experience and you only have six months, it’s probably not a fit. Focus your energy on roles where your qualifications are clear.

DON’T apply blindly. Ambition is good. Precision is better. Be intentional with your time and theirs.

DO Nail the Cover Letter
Your cover letter is your pitch, not your autobiography. Name the position. Show how you meet the requirements. Touch on your teaching philosophy, your creative practice, and your research — all in relation to the institution’s mission.

Keep it to one page. If they want more, they’ll ask.

DON’T send the same letter to every school. Tailor it. And unless the job posting specifically instructs you otherwise, don’t address it to the Dean or Provost. It’s almost always the Chair of the Search Committee. Show that you read closely and respect the process.

DO Your Research and Let It Show
Dig into the department’s curriculum and the school’s broader mission. Learn who’s on the faculty. Get a sense of the department’s values. Are they interdisciplinary? Community focused? Centered in cultural diversity?

DON’T ask questions during the interview that could easily be answered by reading the website. Instead, ask about program goals, curriculum vision, or the future of the department. Make it clear that you’re not just applying to any job — you’re applying to this one.

DO Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Come to the interview with three to five meaningful questions. You might ask how the department supports new faculty, what opportunities exist for interdisciplinary work, or how they envision this role evolving in the next five years.

DON’T make the conversation all about your needs. It’s okay to ask about salary or tenure processes eventually, but start by showing curiosity about how you can contribute.

DO Consider the Full Picture
When evaluating a job, look at more than just the course load. What is the governance structure? What is the institution’s track record with supporting artists of color? Is the department expanding or in flux? Does the program align with your values?

DON’T ignore red flags. And don’t miss the green lights either. If a school values your voice and vision, it will show early in the process.

Final Thoughts
Academia isn’t the only path after earning an MFA, but if it’s the one calling to you, treat your application with the same care and focus you give your creative work.

Remember that you’re not auditioning for approval. You are offering your insight, talent, and lived experience to a department that needs what you bring.

Be yourself. The strongest candidates bring not just their training, but their full humanity into the room.

Lead with intention. Stay open. And trust that if this path is yours, you’re more than ready to walk it.

If you ever need guidance, feel free to reach out.

You’ve got this.