<p>Before you start worrying about balancing languages, electives and APs…look at the priority schools on your list. Are they heavy in Art ? Do you have a great portfolio? Or are your top picks for schools more focused on design labs and fabrication? UC/DAAP does not require a portfolio, nor does SCAD. Both have stellar hands on labs for product and transportation design. RISD and CMU attract dedicated artists with amazing portfolios. If Art-focused schools are on the top of your list – invest time in courses that will help build and shape your portfolio.</p>