School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Date: Dec 25 2010
Major: Fine Arts - Painting/Sculpture/Photography/etc (This Major's Salary over time)
Lets see, where to begin? I was astonished that i got accepted to SAIC. Coming to Chicago was a huge culture shock. I've been an army brat my whole life, attended schools only for military personal, and was excited to get out of Texas. Bottom line, the school is what you put into it. Work hard on a piece and effort shows, but be expected to be in the same crit with someone who spent 3 hours the night before class thinking of some bullshit 'conceptual" thought. But again, it is what you put into it. First year students are required to take a Core and Research Studio class, from 9-4. Expect days called "studio days" where the students who have effort and determination to work actually sit there and make good use of their time and money or feel free to sit on your mac and be on facebook and youtube all day. Either seems to be except able.

Oh, the whole social life shenanigans, its true, it really is. I just completed my first semester and thank god i have a awesome roommate because if it wasnt for her i would probably have no friends, if you dont shave have your head, wear combat boots, tights with huge ugly sweaters with little holes, fake huge prescription glasses, and smoke cigarettes expect to have no friends. There are a few people who are willing to make new friends, but if you dont fit the criteria above expect to have a low social life, This is why i go to other colleges in the area to hang out.

I'm really thankful for the opportunity, but if i had to choose again, i dont think i would go to SAIC, the experience was somewhat fun and i have learned a little, but i dont think its truly worth the amount of money and stress i have put my parents and family through to live and attend the school.