Massachusetts College of Art and Design Top Questions

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself as a high school senior to not sweat the small stuff. I applied to Massachusetts College of Art and Design as a first time freshman the fall of 2012. I received a letter from admissions explaining that my grades were not good enough for the college, but my portfolio was. Admissions suggested that I take my freshman year at a community college. I was devastated because MassArt is my dream school. I went to UMASS Dartmouth the Fall of 2013 and later transferred to MassArt as a sophomore. I wouldn't take that back for the world. I experienced life as a freshman at UMASS and made life long friends. Although MassArt is my dream, Umass taught me many treasured life lessons. I would go back and tell my senior self to not be devastated to go to Umass. I am proud now of who I was and who I have become.

If I could speak to my high school self I would advise one thing: to take a gap year between high school and college. I would advise this to all students in the current economical situation. Post-secondary education has become extremely expensive in the USA, so it is worth it to take a year between the safety net of high school and college to clear your mind and perhaps define a clearer picture of what kind of education you'd like to pursue. Other then that, I advise myself and everyone to do as much research as they can and apply for all scholarships. Don't be lazy.

Don't wait! Even if you aren't absolutely positive about what you want to study, get in and get going. Two years of required courses puts you on your way and far better than spending those years trying to "find yourself"... you're too young to truly find yourself now anyway. Work hard, live cheaply while you can, and watch that debt. After those first two years you may, or may not, have an idea of what to do next... but those years will not be wasted and you will enormouse space to expand. Do what feels right to you and make the best choices you can, on your terms. But don't waste this time!

I would tell myself to go for it. To give it everything you have no matter what the situation. You want to play on the soccer team, you have to train really hard and be prepared to push yourself more than you are now. Join a club. You will instently have a group of friends to be with and will help you out. Don't be scared or nervous. If it's something that you are intersted in just do it even if that means going by yourself. Your going to have a great time in college but only if your not afraid to be on your own, to follow your passions, and put yourself out there. The people here are supportive and it't ok to make mistakes, thats how you learn.

Jordan, Did you apply for that scholarship your teacher told you about? Drop what you're doing. Apply. Now. No, put down that book and go apply for that scholarship. And that one. Don't stop applying. You've made this commitment to spend the next four years in a flourishing environment, and although you are about to feel the most confident you've ever felt, you will go through heartbreak and depression that will make you feel incapable of happiness. But, you know what? Just like that scholarship you applied for, you will get through it. That depression will make you find yourself as an artist, and believe it or not, it will make you understand yourself better and you will learn how to appreciate the hard times. That project you completed when you would have rather never opened your eyes again landed you the internship of a lifetime and you will become a succesful textile designer. Now, drop what you are doing and go apply for that scholarship. Future you has other plans than paying off debt. -Future Jordan (You'll be just fine)

If I went back in time to talk to myself in high school, I would tell myself to listen to my teachers. High School is the last time in life that education is free, and while there may be things that seem more important, become a sponge and absorb any information the teachers are able to give you. I would also recommend utilizing all the resources of a small school. Being in a graduating class of 96 has many shortcomings, but also many benefits. Talk to upperclassmen who have already gone to college or entered to work force. Learn from their mistakes, take their advice, and truly think about what path is right for you. Lastly, if taking a year off between going to college to decide if college is the right choice, then take the time. There is such a push in high school to get into college, but really think about what is important in your life and if college will get you closer to that goal. College will be the right choice, but take time to figure out who you are before making a decision about what you want to do with your life.

If I went back in time to see myself as a high school senior, I would tell her to not worry at all about making friends. In high school, I had a very hard time making friends, and I was very nervous going into college, where I wouldn't know anyone. Little did I know that going to MassArt would introduce me to an entirely different breed of happy, friendly people. Everyone had such diverse styles, backgrounds, sexual and gender orientations, and outlooks on life. I was surprised when I met a group of people whom I would see myself staying friends with for a very long time, people I felt like I waited all my life for, who were just like me. Now, I'm happy that I have this valuable group of loving, caring people, and can't believe I ever worried about making friends, when I've practically made a new family.

You are going to be heartbroken and you are going to be happy about it. Don't worry so much.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a highschool senior, there are many things I would tell myself. The first piece of advice I would give myself is to get the best grades possible. Getting good grades enhances your chances of getting scholarships to help pay for your tuition, and most importantly it impresses the college you are interested in by giving them an accurate view as to how hard of a worker you are. Second I would tell myself to work hard the summer before and save up money. College is an eye opening once in a lifetime experience and you should be able to go to the one you think will give you the best chance at a successful future. Saving up enough money to go to the school you really want, even if it means you will work all summer, will be completely worth it in the end. Lastly I would tell myslef to follow what I really want to do. Life is short and you should believe in your dreams. If you work hard enough, and are passionate enough about what you love you will be successful no matter what.

Having the opportunity to travel back in time to talk to myself as a high school senior would be incredible. The first thing that I would say to myself would be that everything is going to be ok, and that I am making the right decision. After I was accepted into the only college I applied to, Massachusetts College of Art and Design, I made the extremely difficult decision to deffer my acceptance for one year. I was so nervous to take that year off, but now that I am able to look back, I could not have made a better choice. Now that I have finally started at MassArt, I am focused, excited, and ready to take on any assignment or situation that I might be faced with. I would also tell myself that I chose the right school, and that although I will be challenged in many different ways, Massachusetts College of Art and Design is going to help me reach my fullest potential.

I would probably advise myself against going to Gettysburg College and pursuing a degree more in line with both my talents and interests (Art) instead of diving into majors because I wanted to do something I was groomed to do in hopes of securing a more stable future (Medieval Middle Easter History). While I met many great friends and professors during my stay and excelled in all my courses, I did not leave satisfied with what I had accomplished in those years. Afterwards, despite my credentials, I found myself without work and no support from my school outside of the DC area which only further fueled more resentment for my decision that senior year. Disillusioned and finally faced with the realization that I had put off my own happiness in hopes of finding a career more respectable to my family and because I doubted my own skill, only to watch it blossom in the darkness I spent away from art, I finally understood what needed to be done. Within the first week of Orientation at MassArt, I already feel more aware of what I needed to do and how to accomplish it. Go with your gut and make it work.

I would advise myself to pick my classes so that they are spaced out during the week, ideally so that I have one class everyday. In this way I won't overburden myself for part of the week in order to have a day off from class. I would create a schedule for myself around my classes, which would include time to do homework, eat, work out etc. so that I won't waste my time.

The most valuable piece of advice that I would have to offer is to always keep your eyes open. The educational experience is most beneficial when you are receptive to everything that is happening around you. Paying attention to the world around you is just as important as what you can learn in books and lectures if not more so. Life experience and education are very complimentary and it is of utmost importance that neither are neglected. Both serve the same purpose of learning and in turn will make your life all the more rich and enjoyable. It is in this balance that the things you learn from books and lectures can be applied in your everyday life. My last piece of advice is simple and is equally important. Do not get too stressed out. Working hard is to achieve your goals is admirable and can be stressful but always remember that it should be enjoyable as well. If you're stressed out, the work suffers. After graduating you should be able to look back fondly on your college days and then you can continue learning.

My education after high school has been unnecessarily long and repetitively interrupted. I have doubted myself and faltered many times. For years, I desperately wished I could go back in time and start down a different path immediately out of high school. For years, I would have told my past self all of the "correct" decisions that would have saved me time, money, and frustration. Today, I would give my past self only a knowing smile and a comforting hug. I am currently in an exemplary program at my top choice school. Without all of my seemingly incorrect decisions I wouldn't be in my current situation. If I would have started pursuing my passion when I was younger, I wouldn't have had the wisdom to get everything I could out of my colleagues and professors. I wouldn't have had the foresight to take advantage of the variety of opportunities available. I wouldn't have had the maturity to learn from challenges and the grace to persevere. My journey for the past nine years has taught me that I can do anything, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

Do not let this newness frighten you. You are every strength you need already. Forget about finding a man; they’re all boys for now. And you are hardly a woman so don’t rush it. Sleep as much as you can, your stamina depends on it. Harvest as many dreams as you can carry— to be clear your shoulders are capable of infinity. do not let your goals dangle to the wayside; things on your back burner will only turn to mush or ashes. do not bite off more than you can chew but don't underestimate your mouth or the words that spill from its muscles. only buy as many groceries as you will really eat, broken hearts begin when you let potential spoil. Days are going to feel long sometimes but the months will run; and sometimes they’ll escape completely. don’t forget to blink and stretch your legs, and your imagination. Money isn't everything and you’re certainly not made of it your budget is not a dollars and cents strategy but a use of time that makes you rich. Education should be your top priority but learning is never limited to a classroom.

Yvonne, you need to challenge yourself more. Senior year may be a breeze for you, but if you don’t push yourself to your full potential you will not grow intellectually and be mentally prepared for the courses at Massachusetts College of Art and Design. Talk to your guidance counselor and try to get into AP classes if not then only settle for honors courses. You are bright and can do it, high school is the bridge you must cross that leads to your adult life. Even though you enjoy socializing, remember that it is not the reason you are at school; better yet join more clubs so then you can both socialize and help build your school’s community. As time passes, you will realize where your priorities lie, and though at 17 you believe you’ve lived it all, there is still more to learn. Open your mind and lead yourself to success by crusading through all the obstacles you will face. You are number one and in the end you should only be settling for the best.

My highschool career I was always told that in college "they are not going to do it for you". This is true. If i could go back in time I would just emphasis this point. Freshman year i had three scholarships all of which I had help discovering and applying to them with a guidance counselor in highschool. Now as a sophmore, I have no scholorships to help me pay for school. When you try to get help in finding them the advisors here will just tell you where to go, not actually help you. So if i could go back in time i would give myself the advice of knowing that nothing will get done unless you do it yourself. Good life advice in general because it is so brutally honest. The only person you can rely and really trust in life is yourself. Which is why you should always do your best because what you plant now will harvest later. Life isnt about finding yourself, life is about creating yourself, and only YOURSELF can do that. They won't do it for you.

Think long and hard about what you want to do with your life. Pick a career you will be proud of, not a career that you think will make you a ton of money. Begin college with an open mind and read ten minutes longer than you think you need to each time you sit down to read. For every test you will take, study at least 30 minutes more than you think you should. That 30 minutes will pay off every time. Take better notes than anyone else and always be open to tutoring others in the class. They will appreciate it and you will learn more than you know. Never be afraid to stay after class to talk to your professors and always ask for help when you are confused. Always find a study buddy and never let them down. They will help you to your goal in the end, and you will help them more than they will admit. Surround yourself with the smartest people that you can find, especially those smarter than you. Without trying, they will drive you harder than you will ever drive yourself. Never, ever, ever quit.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself during senior year, I would advise myself to have more confidence in my abilities and work towards my dreams because they truly can become a reality. I was extremely close to not even applying to school because of my financial issues, but my parents went out of their way to make sure that I had a college education. I'm honestly blessed to have a support system that I have and I would also tell myself to thank them every chance that I got. I would tell myself to experience everything I did during my college years the best I can because it only happens once and it goes by very quickly. Overall, I would tell myself to just be myself because you can't go far and achieve your dreams if you lose yourself in the process.

Hi Joshua I know this may sound a little weird, but let me explain, I am you from the future and I'm here to help you start things off on a better foot than you did before. Now don't get me wrong, your doing a fabulous job, I'm just here to fix those small erros along the way that you will encounter. To start things off, your not going to be a journalist, so don't go to St.John's in New York because you won't be doing yourself a favor on trying to discover yourself, instead save your money and apply for Rhode Island College in your hometown of Providence, Rhode Island. It is there that you will discover your passion of sculpture, attend the school for two years free of charge because you thought ahead and got some scholarships and then transfer out to the Massachusetts College of Art and Design in Boston. It is there that you will incorporate your sculptural strengths by changing your major to Industrial Dresign. I know it sounds strange but this will be the best move for now. It is where I am now so trust me.

If I could go back in time I would tell myself not to stress over the application process. In fact I would tell myself to not even bother applying to all the schools I know I won't attend. When I was first applying I had an idea of where I would be going and whenever I thought about college I always imagined myself at the college I am at now. Yet still I spent my senior year stressing out about all these little trivial things about which school I would go to and how I would afford it and so on and so forth. I would just tell myself to relax and enjoy my senior year and focus on the things I love because time is fleeting. You don't realize how fast it goes until its already gone. And thinking back on my senior year I cannot believe how fast it went by and I wish I could have enjoyed it more. I would tell myself that college isnt hard because I enjoy what I'm doing and hopefully it continues that way.

As a student at Massachusetts College of Art and Design, I can honestly reflect and say I did not get to where I am without some serious personal pep talks. Some say it is impractical to attend a school that is training creative professionals. When I was in high school I faced a lot of speculation from peers and family members for wanting to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts. It was difficult to hear harsh judgments and assumptions when I was expected to unconditionally support the choices of my classmates. I can recall one moment when a waiter asked what I intended to study. I told proudly told him, “Art Education” and he responded, “Great, you can teach kids how to not make a living.” The advice I would give to my high school self is not to worry about the misinformed opinions of others. I shouldn’t have had to convince myself that it was OK to do what I love. Self-doubt caused me unnecessary stress and unhappiness. My confidence grew once people who shared a love for art surrounded me. I encourage a strong sense of trust in your aspirations, regardless of what they may be.

My high school self is sitting by the shore. Tirelessly over-thinking of what will happen to her when she goes to college. A place trapped in mystics, like Atlantis; drenched by stormy words pouring from the mouths of men so relentlessly, there would be no telling what someone might find. She has been swimming against the powerful currents of self-doubt for a while now. Mental waves of 'what-if's' crashing onto her so heavily, she's just barely treading in the waters of her mind. These worries keep her from touching the tides while others around her plunge into the sea. All who are ready to immerse themselves in a new and foreign world. Breaking through the oceans surface, my past self would look onto me with nearly drowned out eyes. "You can't just sit on the shore forever," I would shout to her, "you have to start swimming now!" A look of confussion would mix itself somewhere between her eyes and mouth. I would then smile widely, "You'll never make it to Atlantis that way! Just start swimming! Don't wait for anything!" My former self stands, takes a breath and dives in.

You are worth it. Stop allowing yourself to feel that you are unworthy of help from others. You have done everything on your own and you will feel proud of that fact...but ask for help. I have learned to do this very quickly since being at college. There are people around you that think that you deserve help if only you ask! Just trust that you are good person and that you deserve to follow your dreams. Laugh more! You have been stressed out for so long! While attending college I have learned to just laugh. Sometimes events do not unfold like you planned and those are moments when you need to be able to relax. You cannot control everything (despite what you may now believe). So keep working but allow yourself from room for mirth. Open yourself. Going from a small town to a big city has been hard. I have learned to be open to new people and experiences, despite being afraid. So for now, just open your mind to new possibilities, even though you aren't able to have those possibilities. They will come!

Aspire to be successful and happy. Strive for the professional ambitions of obtaining enjoyable opportunities to utilize and expand your knowledge and related skills. There is a whole world out there, and the best has yet to come. Practice your self-motivation now, because you're going to need it later.

Life is filled up with opportunities, a famous English writer once said, we just have to learn how to take the best out of them. Being a high school senior, I would definitely try to prepare myself as much as possible for college with a much mature perspective, realizing what a great opportunity is to study at Miami Dade College. I would also take advantage of every resource available to me to learn more every day and open new horizons in my professional career. Now that Im in college I have learned that , in order to succeed, we have to do more than it is required, because after all, what is the difference then between ourselves and the other students? Only excellence can define it. Therefore, I would strive for excellence with more inspiration every day , seeing every course as the pathway to become a succesful pharmacy doctor. If I was back again in high school, I could give myself a lot of tips, maybe some tricks too, but the most important advice would be "make the difference, see your goals accomplished, visualize yourself as a professional and behave accordingly, prepare yourself for the next step in accomplishing your dream".

The best advice I would give to myself as a high school senior would be to think about the next 4 years in college as a whole. not just as a easy escape route to get out of my home town for the first time ever. I would think harder about my decision due to finances, location, cost of living, tuition and the stress it would put on myself by moving far away. It was good for me to get away at the time. I feel like I needed to experience living away from home in a new place., it really was a good choice. But now, 2 years in, I am feeling the stress of being cut off from my parents and dealing with living on my own in one of the countries most expensive cities. I do not regret my choice at all, but I think It would have been better to think of college in its entirety, instead of just the first year. It would have reduced a lot of stress that I am going through now if I had planned better. Art school is not cheap, and living on my own in Boston is not easy!

I advise all high school students entering college to push themselves. By facing personal fears, like performing stand-up comedy at a school poetry-out-loud event, I confronted my fear public speaking. Unexpectedly, this also gave me more opportunities to talk to more students. But, most importantly, this gave me a drive. I became more motivated to see how far I could push my education. When a professor assigned an open-ended 3D project, I took off. By creating a solid plaster sculpture of a human-form, I considered what it meant to be human. And, this resulted in exercising my mind as well as a thesis-statement (to be human is a combination of physicality and emotions). Studying for art does push the student in intellectual ways. It’s possible to view the human-form as a sculpture and simultaneously study the physical structure of nerves, organs, muscles, skin and bones. I urge students to consider that art school, like all education, has the potential for great education, however, it’s up to you, the student, to catalyze it.

For one, it's not going to be as overwhelming as you think it will be. All you need is to take a deep breath and not get so frustrated about not knowing everything at first. You're used to just walking in and instantly knowing what's going on around you. While yes, that is fun to be able to do, college is a completely different ballgame. You have to sit back and observe for a few before jumping right in. Above all of that, you can't just breeze by anymore. It's going to require you to do actual work, but that's what you've always wanted: to be challenged. Well, here's your challenge: Have fun, be better than everyone else at what you're doing and become wiser and stronger so you can protect the people you love.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself when I was a high school senior, there would be many things I would make sure to include to benefit me in college. The first would be to improve my study habits, through out high school I barely ever studied and got decent grades. When college started I figured it would be the same situation, I thought I could just show up for class and instantly be able to pass the test without studying, which of course was not the case what so ever. I would also tell myself to make sure to familiarize myself with my teachers. They in the end are the ones who determine your grades, and should be the first people you go to when there are problems with papers, projects etc. I would also stress making sure you really know who you are hanging out with outside the school building. Hanging out with the wrong group of friends can really make a difference with your education, they can often lead you in the wrong direction without you even noticing. Therefore make sure you choose your friends wisely.

Considering the possibility of time travel, I would use this opportunity to advise my past self on three main point; friends, study habits and teachers. Friends can give you the best of times and can really fill high school with great memories, but sometimes they can be distracting and cause too much fun. For instance, there could be a test that you have to study for, but instead you decide go to a party because your friends convinced you. You end up jeopardizing your chances at doing exceptionally well in class simply because of a good night. Therefore, choose your friends wisely and do what you think is best for you. This subject connects well with study habits. Beginning to study for a test the night before is not the best option. Use your time wisely and prepare yourself for the test early so that if you do want to go out, you will have already prepared your self enough. Finally, teachers, they can be your friends or your enemies. Try to create a relationship with teachers so that they can guide you and create a bridge for further success upon graduation. Remember, you only get one shot.

Be as open-minded as you can be. Not only in the sense of others, but for yourself, be open to change. Do not expect to know exactly what you will want to major in or where you will want to live; even if you have your mind set on something, carry forth receptively. If something sparks your interest, go for it, no matter how it "fits" into your future. For example, I attend Massachusetts College of Art. I went with the intentions to study art history and painting; however, once I got to school and stepped into the metalsmithing foundry, I was taken off that course. My roommate and I, both extremely curious in the foundry, participated in and "iron pour," during which one really pours moltent iron into castings to create sculptures. Then, I took an elective course titled "Beat Research," which was about hip-hop and electronic music. I was introduced into a world of audio and video editing, which I found to enjoy and be quite good at. Be passionate in whatever makes you satisfied, but don't let habit interfere with trying new things. You'll be surprised where you find yourself happiest.

Prove them all wrong. Higher education is more obtainable then you think.

In college the people there have common interests as you and you will meet some of the best friends you will have. the work load is a lot but dueable so don't be discouraged. and the teachers want to see you experiment so take a risk and do something out of your comfort zone for projects. you won't make yourself standout if you choose the safe route. the food is absolutely terrible and there is no getting around that so buy a fridge. the teachers aren't as terrifying as they appear at first so don't freak out, seriously the craziest ones will turn out to be your favorite because they push you and raise your expetations. you got this don't freak out college is amazing!

If I was allowed to go back in time and talk to myself I would tell myself not to worry so much about what others think. The clothes you wear, the car you drive, and the friends you have don't matter. The main importance is to study hard and work on getting a good education. The kids who tried their best, and were not worried about being cool are the ones who are successful today. They had an inner resiliency that I wish I possessed at the time. Even if you lack the support systems to obtain an education, use your inner strength to reach your goals. Anything is possible. Never give up on your dreams. I do have the stength and determination to make it now.

My advice to myself as a senior in highschool is this: College is a resource, just like a pen or a pencil. A pencil will not write a paper on its own, you must write with it. Sitting in a classroom will not make you more educated, you have to listen with a sense of curiosity and that will help you achieve a better education. Never lose your curiousity. Always want to know more, about everything, even if it is not in your major. Learn about life. Do not get wrapped up in your image and what people want you to be. You live your life, no one else does. Think over that statement for a while. Do not allow yourself to settle. KNOW what you want, and go for it at full force. Do not make excuses for yourself. You have potential to be everything you want to be. You are young, you have so much to learn and explore. Find the beauty in exploration. Do not spend your money on things you do not need. Remember that shirt you bought freshman year of college? No? Remember the knowledge you obtained in your classes? You will have that forever.

Time management is key for college. Planning out projects according to the amount of time given is so important. Otherwise you will get stressed and you will be very tired from the lack of sleep you will get. Classes can be up to five or six hours long, so lack of sleep is not good if you want to succeed.

I was never a high school senior but I feel I would tell my 15 year old self that it's perfectly alright to take my time and get my GED instead. I would reassure myself that having severe social anxiety won't stunt me too much, things will get better, and to pat myself on the back for my courage. I would also advise my teen self to read up on everything I can about the application process and warn her that the financial aid offices will try to omit help that is available to me. As a first genereation college student it's super important to be a step ahead of everyone else and ask as many questions as I can! If I could find a college more able to help me, I would advise myself to look them up and apply despite my high school GPA being awful due to family issues, my SATS will be pretty good and I will easily achieve a 3.75+ GPA at college. I would tell myself not to beat myself up about my shortcomings but to celebrate the things I exceed at.

If I could go back to my senior year and talk to myself, I'd tell myself to go to college immediately. The longer you wait to go, the harder it is to finish. Life starts and obstacles begin that may become uncontrolable. Make sure you pace yourself and don't rush. Do not overwhelmed yourself by enrolling in more than you can manage.

If there's one thing that I wish I knew before going to college that would have to be wear good sneakers. The amount of walking, running, moving and standing that you will be doing far exceeds the desire to have any type of non-practical shoe. The teachers will change, the amount of homework you'll receive will increase, the number of hours you sleep will decrease, the people you meet will be vastly different from all the people you grew up with, and the knowledge you gain will be exponetially more then you ever thought you could know; you knew all that was already coming. But out of all the things that I did not see coming was the pain and strain placed on my feet from not having a decent pair of shoes. So if there is one thing you should do, invest in a good pair of sneakers.... or ask for them for Christmas.

The advice I would give myself about college life would be to pursue a college education. I would advise myself to begin my college education at a local community college while working a part-time job in order to keep from going into debt with student loans. I would also advice planning out the educational path to make sure the transfer to a 4 year university. I 'd advise myself to contact the 4 year institution that I was planning to transfer to and make sure the classes transfered. Most importantly I'd advise myself to pursue my dream of becoming an educator, which requires a college education, as soon as possible and not letting anything distract me from that dream.

Everything you learn in college builds on what you learned in high school. Although this touches on the information you learned in high school, the study skills and habits are even more important than the knowledge gained. Please continue to be a hard worker in high school and challenge yourself to work to your full potential. There is a tendency in seniors to slack off during the end of senior year, which must be ignored completely. End of senior year is the homestretch and should be sprinted hard. College is harder than high school and being prepared is the best way to confront the upcoming challenges. The other huge part of college is being involved. The level of involvement in high school tends to reflect the motivation to get involved in college. This is your future and you can control it based on your effort and actions.

If I could go back in time, there are plenty of things I would tell myself. I would have yelled at myself for not looking into colleges early enough or talking to enough people already attending college. If i focused more time on my research I would've had a more straight and narrow education path. As a transfer, I wish I had interrogated students at the schools I wanted to attend instead of just listening to what the tour guides say, because the kids walking around are the most reliable sources for what that school is like. Several friends in college asked me to stay a weekend at their school to see what its like, that I really regret not doing. The most important thing I'd tell myself is to go with your gut feeling, no with the prestige of the college or what everyone else says about that particular college. If you visit a campus and like it just because of the prestige, but don't particularly feel a connection with it, forget about it. The main thing is if when you step on that campus, do you get good vibes and can you picture yourself there.

Throughout a mere one semester, I have learned to fuel my own fires of creative growth in the visual arts through the writing and reading of poetry and literature. Learning this correlation between the written and visual arts has shown me how to push myself into new growth instead of an outside source of motivation. This has, in turn, formed a deep sense of gratitude within me towards those other exterior forms of motivation. I am frequently awakened to many new ideas and concepts, as well as the ability to step outside of the bias the ego casts on my own perception. I have been truly learning to "'step into someone else's shoes" and I do not believe a could have learned a more true sense of this in any other place than Massachusetts College of Art and Design.

I learned how to be a creative and forward thinking citizen, how to be resourceful and take on challenges. I made lasting friends both in students and faculty.

Through my college experience thus far, I have learned how to be on my own, manage my time, and my money. This past fall I moved into my dorm and for the first time I was on my own and making my own decisions. I had to learn how to manage my work at an acceptable pace to get good work passed in on time, and I have also had to learn to manage my money due to the cost of food and school suplies. I have learned to determine the difference between what I want to what I need. It has been a life changing experience and has certainly allowed me to take a firm step into the real world. During my time at MassArt I have also began to explore myself as an artist. I have leared about the discipline it takes to become a better artist. One must have the passion and work ethic to become the best they can be. I have tried to take every chance that has come my way to become what I strive to be.

Although I am only a sophomore, I have already been integrated into a major that I feel will lead me toward a profession that will be both something I love and something that will make a difference. Massart provides exposure and resources to other artists and designs that is helping me to learn and eventually succeed in the "real world". My classes have helped me to grow as an artist and understand how to become even better. Without this school, I would lack experience, connections, and a chance to interact creatively with other designers. I have gained confidence in myself and my art, knowing now that only my financial limitations can hold me back from anything.

The college experience continues to be for me an amazing one. The opporunity has been one for me that i never thought I would be able to experience. Coming from a low income family, I knew that this would be almost impossible. With financial aide this has become a more reasonable dream, but still I do not seem to be able to financially afford my studies even after I graduate. It is very valuable to me to attend so I can give back to my community what it has given to me by being able to attend college. Currently, I am enrolled in the Paralegal Studies in the Associates degree of applied science at Kaplan University in Maine. I know I can take this knowledge when I am done and further my education as a Lawyer, but financing this journey is a journey in itself. It will give me a btter sense of self worth and validation to aid those in need in my community as a Paralegal.

My college experience has rewarded me in many ways. I have become an artist that has matured i. My first semester was a little tough but as I got to know the new school, I felt more comfortable. Letting go of the fear of not fitting in or not being good enough did not last very long. I found myself working with new materials and creating art I felt great about. The encouragement I not only received from teachers but from other students. I had this new family of artist that at any time I can contact and continue to get there input on whatever I am doing. I value my education so highly and I am thankful for the educators who have opened my eyes to all aspects of art. Their structure and teaching skills were tough and positive. I was able to take an idea and run with it. The fear of letting go and allowing myself to experience an artist mind while I was at school and now working in my studio is what I received from my college experience.

In the beginning I wasn't sure if a fine arts college was for me but I have discovered that this is exactly the type of place I need to be in. The city may not have grown on me just yet but the work load is rigorous which is what has pushed me to become a better artisit. The progress I have made is amazing and have realized that I'm a tougher cookie than I thought. I've pushed through all of it and have gained so much in return. All the professors here are all serious and know what they are doing. Again, I'm iffy about Boston but not at all insecure about the education I am recieving.