The USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance Supports students’ professional development with organizations and artists not affiliated with the school, especially in support of their post-graduation plans. Possible examples of professional development opportunities include performances, auditions, conferences, apprenticeships, and other research or creative activities.
Classes, rehearsals, and performances at USC Kaufman should always be the students’ first priority. Excessive absences from these activities will result in a grade reduction and affect casting/performance opportunities. Be sure to speak with faculty about the implications of your absence. Scheduling arrangements must be made in advance for fitting and dress rehearsal accommodations.
Requests must be submitted to Daveon Swan, Assistant Dean of Admissions and Affairs, at least one week prior to the opportunity. This form is to be completed in the event that a student is going to be absent for at least two consecutive classes in a row, or a series of scattered dates related to the same opportunity (for example, several scattered days of absence during which a student will audition for various companies.) You must complete the form with faculty signatures for all proposed absences and turn in these forms at least a week in advance of the opportunity.
Once the forms are completed and turned in, final approval will be granted by Daveon Swan, Assistant Dean of Admissions and Student Services. Requests are not guaranteed and if they are not approved, the student will be notified.
If a student’s request is approved, the student is responsible for connecting with each USC Kaufman faculty member to remind them of the approved absence in advance of their class. The student will be responsible for missed work and may need to complete additional assignments in lieu of class time.
IMPORTANT: Being granted a request for time off from USC Kaufman does not mean that absences outside of the dance school are approved. The student is responsible for the attendance requirements articulated in the syllabi of their non-Kaufman courses. It is the student’s responsibility to communicate and receive approval from all professors. Furthermore, being granted a request does not mean that the opportunity is “sponsored by Kaufman.” Even in the event that all requirements are met, time off may not be approved in the interest of professional development. Students must be in good academic standing in order to be eligible to be excused. Students must have a minimum of a cumulative 2.75 GPA and not be at risk in any Kaufman classes. Please Note: academic standing and attendance will be considered in determining eligibility for professional leave.
- Complete the Request for Professional Development Leave Docusign. Be sure to include the names and emails for each faculty member for each missed class and your Professor(s) of Record.
- After all faculty signatures have been received, Daveon Swan, Assistant Dean of Admissions and Student Services, will receive a copy of the completed form and will email you to let you know if your request has been approved or not.