The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising - Los Angeles

I feel like i wasted my money by going to FIDM. They have so many stupid rules. It does not feel like a very democratic place to study in. The department people are very old fashioned. It does not feel like a "cutting edge" school at all, as they market themselves to be. Maybe I am just not a good fit. I'm in aniterior design student and I went there in a rush. I was originally going to take Product Development but as the first day of classes neared, I felt like I didn't belong in fashion because I wasn't very comfortable in that scene. So at the last minute, i switched over to interior design. I don't feel like I'm learning anything. I would recommend UCLA Extension, but I think you need a degree to get admitted into their program. Anyway, back to learning, I've had in total, only 2 teachers who i feel have really inspired me, and have taught me things beyond the required material. And these 2 teachers are so obviously not the typical faculty at the school. So i feel like I just got lucky with them. I am also always hearing bad things about the school from peers and other people who overhear our conversations. it's always one thing or another with this school. email me at is you want to talk some more. also, the admissions people are so sickeningly salespeople-like.

1st Year Female -- Class 2006

Collaboration/Competitive: B+, Useful Schoolwork: F

I just want to warn anyone thinking of going to this school to study Graphic Design or Video Production. Dont waste your money! I'm a professional in the design industry and I've seen lots of the work that FIDM students create and it's just not very good. It takes at least 3-4 years to develop as a designer and 2 years just doesnt cut it.

FIDM is a private school that makes money off of it's students. While youre there you'll think youre the best thing since Paul Rand. You may even win an award or two. But if you just look at the "successful" designers listed on the alumni page you'll see there arent any big names there.If you have some talent and are eager to learn go to a state school for 4 years. You'll save tons of money and get a better education.

Alumnus Male -- Class 2000

This school is a waste of time and money. The arts and craft courses are designed for preschool and kindergarten aged children. There is no preparation for real life industry work in the real world and the job placement center is only focused on placing students in minimum wage retail jobs or sweat shop style positions. There is no real focus and everyone appears to be posers as rap video dancers or cosmo donts wannabes. The atmosphere is typical hollywood, you would be better off to take your $15k and just party it up on sunset.

1st Year Female -- Class 2007

Social Life: A+, Education Quality: F