Abowers

Sorry for the late reply, I know the application deadlines are coming up. There are lots of opportunities for internships and exhibitions in Philadelphia. We have two museums here with close relationships to the university and UPenn funds three residencies over the summer in addition to providing numerous paid travel opportunities. Philadelphia has a pretty vibrant underground art scene which means there are a lot of alternative gallery spaces and art centers that are open to showing students and experimental work. We are also a 2 hour bus ride from New York. I understand the money concern, it is an expensive school. For me I think it has been worth the money but that is a personal decision everyone has to make. In addition to work study and TA positions, they do have some scholarship money available but the amount is determined upon acceptance.

Take a look at UPenn too. I come from an abstract painting background and I am in my second semester of their interdisciplinary program. Thus far it has been a great fit. Here's a link to their new catalog: http://www.design.upenn.edu/files/PennDesign_MFA_Catalog.pdf On going to school where you want to live... It all depends on what you want to do and where you want to go. In some programs, everyone leaves town and goes somewhere else. Some places like San Francisco tend to trap people there in their own ecosystem. Some places like Chicago are so saturated with SAIC grads that people from other places have interesting perspectives. Do you want to teach? You will probably have to move to get a job. The right fit for you really depends on what your goals are.

Hi Lauren, I started the MFA program at Penn in September and it has been a great experience. The class is small enough that you have plenty of access to professors and visiting critics but large enough that you have the opportunity to receive diverse feedback from your peers. The atmosphere is collaborative and supportive but still rigorous. The facilities are also great. Here is a link to the Penn catalog. http://www.design.upenn.edu/files/PennDesign_MFA_Catalog.pdf Please let me know if you have any specific questions about Penn. I talked to a lot of alumni and current students when I was considering schools, I know how important that is. Sincerely, Anthony Bowers