Transferring to RISD

<p>I just graduated high school and am headed to CCA with a 10k/year scholarship.
I also got into Pratt with 15k/year, and Mass Art with 8k/year.
My first choice was RISD but I was wait listed and placed in group 4, which was the second to last group. :(</p>

<p>I won't make any decisions until CCA starts and I get to know the school and area and all, but I'm wondering if it's a good idea to transfer to RISD, maybe after my first or second year (probably first)</p>

<p>I attended RISD pre-college two summers ago and got high grades, and was hoping that would help my chances of getting in, but I guess other things factor into the decision too. I think my portfolio wasn't strong enough when I applied but I'm thinking it would be much stronger after a year at CCA.</p>

<p>I think I like the San Francisco area more than Providence, but it just really bums me out that I couldn't get accepted to my dream school since the beginning of high school. My major which is industrial design is also ranked higher at RISD (#1) than CCA (#5). </p>

<p>I've never really thought about transferring so I'm looking for advice, opinions, etc. Thank you!</p>

<p>I'm also looking for info on life after college, like what types of design firms people go to from both schools.</p>

<p>All of the schools mentioned are very strong. I would take the place that offers you the lowest cost net of scholarships. RISD usually is the WORST place to go from a cost perspective since they only offer need based aid. Even that is limited there.</p>

<p>If costs of schools are about even ( give or take a few thousand a year) then pick the one that feels best for you.</p>

<p>CCA is a great place…You could always transfer but you may not want to after you make friends and get involved. Being that YOU are at the center of the equation, both CCA and RISD are equal in regards to availability of opportunities. SF/Oakland is such vibrant happening place - just take advantage of all that you can while you are there. Their ID department is very strong and there are many design firms in the area. Don’t give those ratings so much credence. Plus - there is always grad school later on. Good luck!!!</p>

<p>Thank you, that’s exactly what I needed to hear :)</p>

<p>Also, RISD often will make you retake their foundation year. I don’t know about you, but I wouldn’t want to do a year of foundation just for the sake of doing one only to redo it again and go through another application proccess. I think that if you were waitlisted at RISD, it’s probably just not the greatest fit for what you will be doing as an artist, that doesn’t necessarily mean you were not good enough. I would suggest keeping an open mind and a positive attitude at CCA and enjoy it :)</p>

<p>Just wanted to correct the previous poster. RISD transfers may take a 6 week foundation year program if they do not have the credits to replace freshman year. This is not the case for all though. I know transfers who did not take this program. Either way, you do not retake an entire year of foundation studies. Either way, CCA is a great school and I’m sure you’ll be more than happy there.</p>