PaperMoon

Hey, @zelle - awesome, congrats! I also got into SAIC and am feeling very torn. I have a MassArt interview coming up and am waiting on UArts, but they are both feeling secondary right now. I did have some brief outreach from the director of the UArts low res program when she saw my portfolio, but it’s been radio silence since she got my full application packet. So that saying, I totally agree - the attention and care MICA has been giving is phenomenal and it’s almost making the decision easier since 1) I’m in Virginia and it’s logistically such an easier option, and 2) the funding might end up being better. Also, I totally agree with you on the current students’ perspectives - everything I’ve heard from them is only positive. Another thing I have learned from a current student is that MICA seems to really put an emphasis on making their students’ education in and introduction to professional practice extremely well rounded and useful. That is such a bonus. And thanks for the tip on the podcast! I’ll be sure to check it out!

That’s good to hear - I’ve been checking my mailbox nonstop! I asked the other students mostly general questions, like what made them choose MICA MFAST and how it has helped them. One student said she has been accepted into more nationally juried shows since starting the program - which is always good. She also said she felt MICA was really trying to make a connection from the beginning, with the interviews and phone calls (vs. other schools) - which I have to agree with. She also said she received some funding. Her answers were pretty helpful, so far.

@andreabengeart Awesome! I also got in and am waiting for some more info. I was told they only accept 9 into each cohort. Maybe we’ll see each other this summer! I reached out to a few current students for their perspective, so I’m hoping that might also help narrow down the decision. @cklos @chaosforte I also have an interview coming up with MassArt - mine is for their low-res program.

Hi, @squidgal! I am very glad to have stumbled on your post because I have applied to all of the same low-res MFA programs as you (minus SVA) and am planning to start this summer. I have been very fortunate with acceptances, as well, and am in the same conundrum you were in last year: I need clarity! What did you end up doing? How did you make your decision? And do you have any advice or insight regarding any of the schools and their programs? SAIC was tied for my top choice with MICA, but I am on the East Coast and the idea of travel logistics and hauling work back/forth every year seems daunting. But the idea of going to SAIC feels amazing for so many reasons. MICA has had my heart for as long as I remember, and they have been very personal from the beginning - they interviewed me and called me to let me know I was accepted (SAIC sent me the acceptance and called after). I was told that the funding at MICA will amount to approx 1/3 tuition, but it's 3 yrs/4 summers, so I'm thinking it could end up still being more expensive than a shorter program. MassArt and Uarts are feeling secondary at this point, but what if there is funding? Any advice would be so appreciated! Thanks!