In an interview for an Art Schools website article, Kenneth Young, director of admissions for California Institute of Arts, highlighted artistic talent as a discriminating factor among applicants. Drawings and paintings are typical features of a design portfolio, which demonstrates an individual's competence with fine art. If you apply for a general design course, the You the Designer website suggests building a dynamic folder that exhibits a variety of media to illustrate multiple talents. Other desirable features include creativity and drawing from observation.
With an increasing number of people competing to get into design school, good grades are a prerequisite. Although design courses are predominantly creative in nature, assessors seek students who are studious, organized and motivated. For example, Sheri Mckenzie, associate vice principal of Enrollment Services at California College of Arts and Crafts, notes that the college favors academically high-achieving students. In addition, design applicants should demonstrate a scholarly interest in art by taking as many art subjects as possible during high school.
To supplement an academic interest in design, design school candidates should display a general interest in art. Participation in summer programs or community projects, for instance, illustrate seriousness and commitment to a future in design. Engaging in outside activities also develops a candidate's real-world design experience, which strengthens and validates goals. During the design school interview process, you can use your experience to express your understanding of the cultural, social and environmental factors influencing design.
Designs schools are more likely to respond to applicants with strong letters of recommendation. Just imagine the thousands of applications that admissions officers sort through each year. A positive review of your skills and potential from a reputable individual, such as an art teacher, adds texture and reliability to your application. You may use your personal statement in a similar manner. Essentially your own letter of recommendation, a personal statement is an opportunity to sell your skills and communicate interests and aspirations in an eloquent way.
Design schools want applicants with a specific interest in their programs. Academic institutions care about retention figures and how graduates represent them in the outside world. You the Designer notes that design school interviewers often question an applicant's knowledge about the school and its programs. So doing research helps.