I’m going to be applying to some pretty competitive art schools in the fall, my top choice right now is RISD. Academically I think I’m in the average range for RISD (3.5 gpa uw) and am just hoping my portfolio is strong enough but I don’t have much for ECs. No sports, no competitions. All I really have is I was part of my schools book club this past year and am planning on leading it next year, I’m taking summer courses at MassArt and I’m doing dual enrollment at a cc next fall. I’m afraid this is not strong enough for such an academically focused art school like RISD or other top art schools such as Pratt. Anyone have input on if this really matters that much or ways I can still make up for it?
Most of what’s going into your app. is in the rear view mirror at this point so don’t sweat what you haven’t done; rather, focus on what you can do between now and the fall to bolster your application. And that focus should be on the portfolio, since these schools will naturally put the most weight on that. Interesting EC’s can help, but they won’t make or break an application to a BFA program - demonstrated ability in the visual arts is going to be key. So any EC that supports the development of a strong portfolio is going to be the most helpful this summer. You might ask your instructors at MassArt to give you a critique of your work and advise on what to include/leave off, and attending a National Portfolio Day in the fall is helpful as well. Finally, keep in mind that grades and test scores might help with merit at some of these places.
Good luck!
@flowerpower007 Schools don’t need to see a ton of EC’s–but what most do want to see is passion and commitment to something, coupled with good leadership skills. So the fact that you are going to be leading the school’s book club is a win. If you need to write an essay about EC’s you can talk about how you love to read and hear other’s stories and that making art is your way of telling your own story.