<p>would the ability to illustrate be an asset to a graphic designer?</p>
<p>In terms of improving chances of employment and overall competence? </p>
<p>Also, are there any 4 year institutions that makes a designers task of finding employment that much easier? I was fiercely considering going to RISD - since going to the most consistent number 1 ranked art school would likely drammatically increase my chances for employment - but since the school has a reputation for not offerring financial aid - while at the same time demanding an IVY tuition - the reality may be that I would have to reconsider in favor of another school.</p>
<p>I know that I could probably manage a loan or whatnot but I feel that it may not be the most responsible thing to incur a massive debt while struggling to find employment.</p>
<p>Not a professional, pretty much in the same boat as you but being able to draw would be good if you want to make a concept clearer while in development stages… The other benefit would probably be being able to double as an illustrator.</p>
<p>It wouldn’t hurt to apply to RISD but you might want to look at other schools too. Instead of looking at the school’s overall ranking it might be better to check the strength of the program instead. You might want to look into state schools. Some have really good programs but might not be as well-known. For California, for example, there’s San Jose State. Probably not the first choice for people aiming to do art but the students really good work and the illustration department(which is coupled with the animation department) is as rigorous as any art school. </p>
<p>A school with a good reputation will be really helpful in getting a job when it comes to name recognition(that’s what alumni say about Art Center in Pasadena, the name itself can open doors, I’m assuming it’s the same for RISD), but in the end it’s really up to what you put into it.</p>