I’m a community college transfer student who has narrowed down my college search between 2 schools: Parsons and UM Stamps. I’d love to hear from anyone with insight or experience with these schools!!!
Parson’s covered most of my tuition with scholarships, and at University of Michigan I would be a Stamps Scholar. Due to scholarships/aid both schools are the same cost for me.
At Parsons I would be a communication design major w/ a fine arts minor, while Stamps has a more open curriculum with no specific major. Both schools are ranked well, but when it comes to art/design Parsons seems to be ranked higher/has a more famous name in the art world. (Please feel free to collect me if I’m wrong, that’s just what I’ve assumed based on my research.)
My plan is to take enough classes so that I can work as a graphic designer for job security when I graduate, while still being able to take fine art classes. I feel like Stamps open curriculum intrigues me, but Parsons would be a better location for internships/job opportunities and it’s closer to home. However, Umich would offer a more traditional college experience.
Both schools also accepted most of my credits so I would be able to graduate in 2 or 2 1/2 years. I could honestly see myself at both schools and would love to hear any feedback from any students or parents who have had experiences with these schools!
What year would you be starting / transferring? This Fall? My daughter is a sophomore at Parsons now and LOVED her first year and living in the city BUT they are now completely remote this semester. The New School seems to be doing the best they can with a rough situation, but moving and living in NYC now has added challenges.
Stamps is a terrific opportunity. I feel like you may be underestimating how many doors this could open for you; it’s extremely prestigious and comes with amazing networking opportunities as well. (Congratulations!)
Parsons has open enrollment opportunities in the summers, both in New York and in Paris. If I were you, I would grab that free UMich degree with Stamps, and consider supplementing with Parsons in the summers - best of both worlds!