<p>I definitely want to major in graphic design and I was wondering if anybody had anymore insight on the GD programs at either VCU, Pratt, Parsons, and Calarts.
From what I gather:
- VCU is ranked highest of the four for GD, but as far as the work goes, I'm not sure which style they lean towards (i.e. commercial, conceptual, etc)
- Pratt has allows for students to choose a concentration (GD, Illus., or advertising); in terms of style, I visited the school and they say that they encourage students to develop their own voice
- Parsons, admittedly, I don't know much about. (I'm visiting next week)
- Calarts has a very specific style of work the students produce
Also, if I go to VCU, Pratt, or Parsons, I would consider Illustration, so I was wondering if anyone had some insight on those programs. (I know VCU allows for double majoring/minoring, Pratt's curriculum allows for a concentration, and Parsons wouldn't allow the option of doing both GD and Illustration, but I'd like to here some opinions anyways)</p>
<p>One last thing: This is a shallow question, but if anybody has any information about student life (i.e. how close students are with each other, work load, environment, students in general) that would be good too.</p>
<p>I don’t know anything about those schools, but your last question isn’t shallow - that’s the “fit” part everyone talks about. If you’re not comfortable there, it doesn’t matter how good the school is.</p>
<p>I grew up in Valencia, CA where CalArts is located and currently living in NYC (90% going Parsons in the Fall). When I was figuring out which schools to apply to, I decided not to consider CalArts despite it being a great school mostly because the area around the school is very suburban, as in all the houses look the same, it’s surrounded by strip malls and chain restaurants, and the art community it strictly limited to the campus. In contrast, New York City as a whole is very energetic and vibrant. I especially like New York as a location because it provides more access to jobs and internships. I can’t speak to Pratt because I didn’t apply and don’t know much about it. I can say I personally liked Parsons’ facilities and approach/energy, which seemed to promote interdisciplinary work and flexibility. I’ve heard that Pratt is more traditional in its approach, but that’s just hearsay from my part. </p>
<p>Also, if you go to school in NYC, you will definitely not need a car. If you go to CalArts, you probably will find a car useful.</p>