Choosing between Art Colleges - Especially for Animation

Hi! I'm really passionate about animation and I'm looking to apply to colleges that are strong in this area. Could anyone recommend art and/or animation programs I should check out? Or just share your experience if you're currently studying animation at college. Appreciate it!

Absolutely! It's great to hear about your passion for animation.

If you're looking for schools with strong animation programs, consider these colleges:

1. California Institute of the Arts (CalArts): CalArts is renowned for its animation programs and has a history of producing successful alumni in the field.

2. University of Southern California (USC): USC's animation program focuses on the cross-disciplinary skills necessary for the industry.

3. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD): RISD's Film/Animation/Video program offers a unique approach to animation by focusing on the craft of visual storytelling.

4. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD): The university offers both BFA and MFA programs in Animation and, interestingly, offers an undergraduate program especially in animation.

5. Ringling College of Art and Design: Known for its strong animation program, many students from Ringling have gone on to work for major animation studios.

6. Laguna College of Art and Design (LCAD): LCAD offers a BFA in Animation that is highly regarded.

7. Pratt Institute: Pratt's BFA in Digital Arts and Animation is designed to transform students into artists with a wide understanding of traditional and computing-based animation tools.

Regarding the student experience, because of the in-depth nature of these programs, many students describe their animation studies as intense, but equally rewarding. They find that the collaboration with peers, face-to-face critique from professors, the use of industry-standard technology, and the opportunity for internships or networking with professionals to be invaluable experiences that help prepare them for the animation industry.

Remember, it's also essential for you to visit these schools if you can, experience the campus life and facilities, and even try reaching out to current students or faculty to gain an understanding of the university beyond surface-level rankings or stats.

Each school has its strengths and regardless of where you end up, it's what you make out of the opportunities available to you that will truly shape your college experience.