Pacific Northwest College of Art Top Questions

What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

Leah

Right now, you are planning on going to college because you are told that you should, that it’s the next logical step. I wish you knew that it wasn’t the only option- you are allowed to work at the dude ranch longer, you are allowed to find a crummy part time job and decide whether or not you want to be back in school. However, once you have done the part time, you will discover that college is the right place for you, just not yet. Once you are back in school, know that your high school ability to ace a test without studying just isn’t going to work anymore. Scribbling out your paper on the way to class isn’t going to get you an “A”. Even planning on writing that essay the night before and carving out time for it isn’t enough- try and plan to have everything done AT LEAST a week beforehand. Every time you start a new reading assignment, go back and read all the previous ones again- that way when everyone else is cramming for finals, you’ll still remember what was talked about at the beginning of the semester.

Alison

I would tell myself that the most important thing you can do is to believe in success and pursue your dreams. Focus on what is in front of you, and push yourself toward what it is you want in life. You can do anything that you put your mind to. College is a new experience, which you should soak up 117{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c}. Find your passions, what it is that makes you happy and work hard for it. do not allow anything to get in your way, create, concentrate and make your dreams your goals. give yourself the time to rest, this is just a step in the path of life's desiny; you can only fail by not trying. Be dedicated and commited to your goals by putting forth the effort for the greater good. Your passion is to help others; you are drivien to be of service wherever it's needed. Your intentions for going to college is to gain knowledge and experience so you can give back to the community.

Carolyn

If I could go back to talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself a number of things. One firstly, would be to apply for as many scholarships as possible. Back then, the amount of money that I am spending was not as real to me. I didn't realize how much money I would have to spend on living, tution and art supplies. I would also tell myself to follow to slow down. I was so ready to get out of high school and get as far away from my hometown as possible, and now I am constantly missing home and the friends that I left behind. Also I would remind myself of what is important to me, to stay true to myself and never bend over backward for people that wouldn't do the same for me. I think growing up I've realized that I need to put myself first over the ones I care about, because if I'm not happy how am I suppose to help other be happy.

Melissa

I attended Clark College from January 2006-December 2010. You can tell I really did not want to leave it behind. I graduated from the Welding Technology program (vocational) with great welding skills and excellent grades. I then studied welded sculpture under Professor Beth Heron for two years. I also work as a welder while attending school, so I have a very well rounded approach with emphasis on discipline, creativity, and strong fabrication and welding abilities. I transferred to Pacific Northwest College of Art this new Spring Semester.

Margaret

Before I started at PNCA I didn't know anything about art really, and I didn't talk like an artist. I was quiet and my mind was closed as far as creating anything goes. After one semester, I'm already thinking about huge projects with no limits, and I recited a poem in front of my class as a final which is something I thought I would never do. At PNCA, there is never any pressure on your shoulders to be something your not. Going here has helped me see who I really am. I am eager to continue here and find out where it leads me.

Hannah

I'd tell myself to go straight for the photography degree I've been dreaming of, instead of wandering around unsure at a state school. Work more and save, save, save! There's always surprise expenses. I'd tell myself not to worry about the "prestige" of the school I'm thinking of going to - the value of the education is in the teachers and the material you're given, not the name or the cost. Mostly, though, I'd tell myself to define my learning habits without any supervision, and to make sure to check out the library before buying any textbooks.

Kaija

I would tell myself not to focus so much on the unimportance of class status, and focus more on what makes me inspired and motivated. I spent a lot of time being angry at my fellow classmates, I wish I had learned to express myself a different way sooner. I would also tell myself To take a break and travel, the only way to find yourself is to meet a lot of different people from all around the world. Another things I wish i would have done was explored more avenues while i was in high school to make my search for school in the future a little easier. And to start saving money because man is it expensive to be an artist!

Janae

If I could go back in time, there would be 3 key things I would highlight: the importance of an open mind, a strong soul, and a giving heart. I would appear to my past self as a reflection in the mirror, staring my past self straight in the eyes and thinking about everything in my life: my priorities, my passions, and my dreams... essentially my heart unfurled. I would tell myself to think about what I wanted out of life and what I wanted for my future. As long as I knew that inspiration and truth can always be found if I looked inward, then I'd know that I'd never be a quitter. Then I'd think of myself as a person on this Earth; what place I wanted to take, and what I wanted to contribute. With an open mind, a strong soul, and a giving heart, I would be able to tackle whatever my future can throw at me. As a reflection, I would leave my past self with a smile, knowing that if I kept these three values close at hand, I would be able to accomplish anything.

Amanda

If I were able to travel back in time and advise my teenage self on how to grow up, the advice I would give myself is this: keep doing what you're doing. I may not have made all of the right decisions growing up, but I am currently in a position I'm happy with. I am attending the college of my choice, supporting myself, and living my life according to my own goals. I am proud of the decisions I have made, good an bad, as each experience has given me the knowledge and ability to make the informed decisions that I make each day.