What to Expect
A graphic arts program will ensure you don't become a starving artist.
These programs train you to become a commercial art professional.
Yvonne Meyer took a two-year diploma program in graphic arts. "I like very
much that we also have a completely diverse faculty that makes the student
look at more than one point of view and subsequently can use that objectivity
as a skill," she says.
Kelly Young studied graphic design at the Maine College of Art. "The teachers
are great but they don't spoon-feed," she says.
"There's never a time without wheels turning. If you're not in class,
you're always thinking about what you can do for one project or another.
It's all about process, and how you get to a final product."
Mike McKenney also took graphic design at the Maine College of Art. He
says students learn to use all the latest software in very creative, artistic
ways. "It can be a lot of work, but it's not something students should
fear. If you're there because you love it, then you won't have a problem."
Young usually has three to four hours of homework a night. But she
says students shouldn't let that intimidate them. "It becomes your life and
you honestly do enjoy it."
Meyer's homework consisted of drawing, reading, typing essays, painting,
pursuing new ideas and reading design magazine articles. "I won't hand in
work I'm not happy with, and am not afraid to stay up and do it over."
Survival Tips
Young says dealing with technology can create problems for new students.
She dealt with these problems with persistence and patience. "You only get
out what you put in."