Admissions

1. Rhode Island School of Design isn't for EVERYONE. But most people I know love it here and wouldn't want to go anywhere else. So make sure you visit the campus and know all that there is to know about this school.
2. Be prepared to work your butt off 24/7, especially during foundation year. You have studio classes every week as well as two liberal arts classes in between. Although you do have a week between each individual studio class to finish homework, one should know that art takes long periods of time. Don't waste any minute, cause every minute is precious.
3. DO NOT PROCRASTINATE. I am a hypocrite of this, I must admit. However, it must be done.
4. Don't be shy, go out and have fun. RISD is a great school filled with various people and connections will always help you in the long run.

the recurring tips i've heard for any applying students are (1) make sure your portfolio has a lot of variety (risd eats that stuff up), and (2) don't slack off on academics because it's just an art school. although the application is judged primarily by the portfolio, if your grades are low, you might get rejected just because of that.

- if you're interested in risd, sign up to receive their information in the mail. the stuff they send you is helpful.

- the cost of art supplies adds up. bring whatever you can from home. buy from second life, a store on campus that sells secondhand supplies. you only need new paper, you don't need a brand new ruler / paintbrush / drawing board.

- providence is like san francisco for several reasons: (1) it's liberal (2) it's arsty (3) there are so many hills your calves are gonna grow calves of their own. travel light on campus.

- don't bring your car to campus. the buildings are close together. if you want to cut your travel time, ride a bike / scooter.

- bring a fan and an extra-heavy winter coat.

Make sure art and design is what you want to do. This school offers an incredible amount of opportunities to succeed but will seriously challenge every individual who steps over the threshold into the art and design world.

Work hard and show off that you worked hard. Rely on your eccentricities and outlying interests. Expect to work, don't come here if you're planning to glide through college, and be honest with yourself.

I assume that my essays helped me the most to get into this school.
RISD also cares about your high school GPA so don't get lazy on getting good grades.

draw, draw, draw!! admission is mostly about your artistic talent and abilities. keep your grades up and write interesting essays. they are looking at your artwork and grades mostly, so concentrate on them during junior and senior year!

Get your work done. If you let things pile up, you will drown under all of the work. Also, stay organized. Life will be a lot easier for you if you do

I'm a prospective student, and tips I've gotten are bring LOTS of charcoal, be prepared to work harder than you ever have, but try to have fun.

Get used to minimal sleep, save money for artsupplies, shop at thrift stores