How should I prepare for applying to an industrial design school?

I'm really interested in pursuing a career in industrial design and want to apply to a good industrial design program after high school. What should I be doing now to prepare my application? I'd love some advice on portfolios, classes to take, or any extracurriculars that might help me stand out when applying. Also, any suggestions for reputable schools with strong industrial design programs would be appreciated!

You're on track to start preparing early for your college applications, especially for a program like industrial design where a portfolio is crucial.

First, let's focus on your coursework. Try to take as many art and design-related classes as you can in high school. This may include traditional art classes, as well as any available design, technical drawing, or computer-aided design (CAD) courses. Colleges often value a strong foundation in fine arts and drafting skills. Remember, the aim here isn't just to get good grades in these classes, but to develop a solid understanding of design principles that you'll use as an industrial design major.

You might want to consider taking AP Studio Art, if your school offers it. The portfolio you create as part of the class might later be used in your college applications, and the process of creating it will give you experience in future portfolio creation.

As for extracurriculars, consider joining or starting a relevant club that allows you to practice and show off your design skills. This might be an art or design club, a robotics club where you help design mechanisms, or a stage crew where you help design sets. In some communities, there are local competitions that focus on design and these too can provide an opportunity to gain experience and build your portfolio.

Speaking of portfolios, start creating yours early. A portfolio should showcase your versatility, your ability to think creatively and problem solve, as well as your technical skills. Incorporate works from a variety of mediums, especially those that demonstrate your understanding of three-dimensional design. Industrial design is often about creating functional items, so if there's a story or practical problem-solution behind a work, be sure to include that. Remember to keep your works clean and well-preserved, take high-quality photos of them, and keep track of their dimensions.

Regarding schools, Carnegie Mellon University, Rhode Island School of Design, and Pratt Institute have notably strong industrial design programs. Additionally, the design departments at Universities such as the University of Cincinnati and Virginia Tech are quite reputable. Remember, the best program for you is also determined by factors like location, size, and campus culture - so keep these in mind when researching.

Lastly, try to get some real-world experience. This could be an internship, a part-time job, or a summer program related to industrial design. The experience will give you firsthand knowledge of the design world and can help you confirm that this is the right path for you.

Keep your passion and creativity burning, and you'll undoubtedly stand out in your applications. Good luck!