Hi All! My daughter is looking at these schools for their arts & technology programs.
A&M Visualization
UTAustin AET
UTDallas ATEC
SMU Creative Computation
From what we have found so far it sounds like A&M and UTAustin may have stronger industry connections for internships and jobs and best overall reputation for their program? I know SMU has a good reputation and ranking in general particularly for their business school but I’m not sure about their creative computing program?
Putting aside cost and acceptance- assuming she were to get accepted and we could afford it- which of these schools has the better visual communication, arts & technology program? She is auto admit to A&M. We just went to a recruitment event there and were impressed. We have tours scheduled at the other schools. She plans to get all her applications in early (August/September).
How would you rank these 4 schools for a career in visual communication, arts and technology?
One is a behemoth in a small town. One is really big in the midst of the state capital. One is large in whatever setting. And one is a upscale, mid-size institution.
This is not a major that it’s going to matter where you go.
Your child has to spend four years there - they should find the right environment for themselves, the right fit - both in the classroom and on the campus. Fit also includes $$ - why spend what you don’t need to - sorry SMU unless you are giving a scholarship.
So i went to arguably the top journalism school in the country - Syracuse - and had very little hands on because everyone goes. In other words, great reputation, not a great education.
My friend had to drop out due to money and finish at her home school - U of Montana. I visited her - every kid in her class had more hands on experience in the one day I was there then I had in an entire year - and I’m not kidding. They had 20 kids or so vs. our hundreds - and every single one got a job. 90% of those I know did not end up working in journalism.
Even today, while I’m in sales, she’s a News Director.
My point - sometimes the most famous name is not necessarily the best. Much of it has to do with opportunities that are created but long term the student.
Find the right school for your child to thrive - academically, socially, and then for you financially. Especially in a major such as Visual Arts.
PS - many “niche” schools excel in these fields such as New School or RISD or SCAD vs. your typical college.
Good luck.
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