The Maryland Institute College of Art

Date: Dec 09 2008
Major: Art & Design Department (This Major's Salary over time)
My main criticism about MICA is the student body. You'll find yourself surrounded by people who are very close-minded. By that I mean if you are not a hipster, gay or talkative you will not have many friends within the school. The student body estimation consists of 70% female, 30% male and out of that 30% male 50% are gay. Not that I have any problems with gay people, but if you are the kind of guy who is open minded and engaging you will find it difficult to keep your spirits up, especially if you are older and serious about your career as an artist. There are always parties and places to get crazy and it's easy to get sucked into that decadent life style and not get any work done. There are very few professors here in the painting department, who really have something to offer and not just empty words. The reputation is built mainly on the history of the school and not in its actual programs. One of the worst part is the city and you really have to keep your wits about you, and there isn't much to do aside from house parties, and a few bars. The local Museum is quite small and you will grow tire of it eventually. I personally would choose Chicago, RISD and Calarts over this place any day.

Don't expect to make friends UNLESS you are willing to 'fit in'.