Every time the art school debate comes up, I want to crawl into a whole with my $60k degree that’s gotten me a grand total of 0 jobs because I had no good experience to back it up-

Which is not to say art school isn’t beneficial in its own unique ways, but the cost... isn’t always worth it. And I know a lot of artists trying to build a portfolio of skills won’t get the support they need from family unless it’s got that “college” stamp on it.

me, PERSONALLY: I don’t think art school benefited me for the cost I wracked up in lifelong student loan debt. It was a young, naive decision, and my work was mediocre when I graduated, so I didn’t have a strong portfolio when applying for jobs.

I learned who I am as an artist and what I’m capable of through years of taking commissions. Still hasn’t landed me a solid job yet, but that’s okay NOW. It did eat me up for years though. I wish I’d known what it was gonna cost me sooner.

There’s a conversation that we’re having now about how expensive art schools in this country have been preying on the young, naive creatives and I’m glad it comes up as often as it does. I’m biased. But I’m also glad people are being honest about what a degree will get you.

Most of the time, if your work doesn’t back up that expensive paper, it’s not gonna get you much of anything. And if your portfolio is kickass but you don’t have a degree... you still have a great chance, so apply for that job anyway?

Anyway, my name is Chris, an artist with a BFA in Media Arts + Animation. I’ve diligently applied to a quite a few dozen jobs/gigs in the past two years and I’ve had no luck yet. I haven’t given up. But the irony is never lost on me lmao

I like to think I’m self aware when it comes to the quality of my work, I know -at my age, with my “experience” I’m on the higher end of Mediocre amongst my peers. So, no, I’m not entitled to these jobs because of a piece of paper. I’m working to get there.

Also, if nothing else, this thread should prove that even idiots who can’t spell can get a college degree SO SJDHDJDBDBF

“Whole”

fuck ME