High school students who are interested in arts programs or majoring in art in college must prepare for the college admissions process in the same manner as other college-bound students. However, in addition to grades, GPA, extracirricular activities and college applications, they must develop a professional art portfolio. The art portfolio requirements vary at each college so it is essential to contact each college Art department for these specifications.
Here are several useful tips for college-bound art students:
- Have your artwork photographed, videotaped, scanned or graphically converted to display in a professional manner.
- Show a range of techniques and mastery in the works you choose.
- Choose works that show creative thinking and a unique perspective.
- Begin developing your portfolio during your junior year so that you may evaluate what works you already have and plan to create works in areas that you are lacking.
- Take your works to a professional for critiquing! An art teacher, local artist, art professor or a current art student may be good sources to give your portfolio a trial run.
- Since your art portfolio is a part of your college admissions process, you should consider retaining the services of an admissions advisor who has experience in working with art students and understands the philosophy and academic mission of each of your target colleges.
Dr. Paul Reginald Lowe is the managing director of Pinnacle Educational Center Admissions Advisors Group network. He and his team of admissions advisors, through the admissions affiliate, Ivy League Admissions Advisors help students gain admissions to Ivy League and high selective colleges and universities.
Dr. Paul Lowe - Admissions Expert 