30 American Colleges That Have Celebrity or Movie Star Alumni

2. Yale University (New Haven, CT)

Yale University’s School of Drama has long been a beacon for aspiring actors and filmmakers, with its alumni list reading like a Hollywood Hall of Fame. Meryl Streep, widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of all time, credits her time at Yale for shaping her career. Paul Newman, another Yale icon, began his illustrious journey on the university’s stages. Beyond its drama school, Yale offers students access to the Yale Repertory Theatre and Yale Dramatic Association, both of which provide practical experience and exposure to the performing arts. These opportunities, coupled with the university’s emphasis on rigorous training and mentorship, equip students with the tools they need to thrive in the competitive world of entertainment. Yale’s collaborative and innovative environment fosters a spirit of creativity, encouraging students to push boundaries and redefine storytelling in theater, film, and beyond.