Earl Said:

Illinois Institute of Art Chicago?

We Answered:

Unless you are independently wealthy, art is not a good career. It leads to the unemployment line, not a good income, in the case of about 99% of the graduates. Don't make the mistake of confusing play and work.

Best wishes.

Shannon Said:

Trying to decide on a good film school in Chicago?

We Answered:

Go to Flashpoint Academy... i just took a tour last week and they are up with everything you will need to know when you graduate. They may not be accredited but, don't let that stop you from making a decision. If you're a hands on visual learner and don't care much for cramming useless knowledge about your major in your head this is the place to go. Depaul is a absolutely good school no doubt but not for your major. Columbia seems to not do much for their students after they leave, and Illinois Institute of Art would be the second choice in my book, since they are pretty close to Flashpoints teaching technique if you want the degree. Honestly, take the tour and you'll be as impressed as i am. They won't have any raw data for you when you ask about graduation statistics since they haven't had a graduating class yet but, the list they will show you of companies looking for their students to hire after they graduate is very promising.

oh and if anyone from the industry comes in to use their equipment and you help out... you can put it on your resume!

Joseph Said:

For the visual effects/special effects artists out there only?

We Answered:

It is not just how to DRAW the human figure, but these classes help a developing artist learn how the human figure is represented in various media. You, and others in the field you expect to enter, need to see how the human figure is assembled and how it fits in its environment. Strictly adhering to course work that ONLY covers your specific major will severely limit the skill set you bring to your employer.

These class requirements are not included JUST to fill in your class day.

The degree you seek implies, at least, a basic understanding of different specialties, and it would not be fair to represent yourself to an employer as having ALL the necessary skills when you are missing one very important component.

Don't think that you "know" more than the faculty of your school, the whole graphic arts industry, and any potential employer. If you don't want the degree, then, by all means, skip the life drawing class. Take the classes that you want and see who the studios hire; you or the other guy who HAS the degree.

Nathan Said:

Illinois Institute of Art... what area of Chicago is the school located?

We Answered:

It is the downtown area. The school is located in the Merchandise Mart. I would call it the near northside meaning it is north of downtown yet very close to downtown.

I found out that they list two campuses. The second one is located in Schaumburg which is about 20 miles outside the city limits in a northwest direction.

Eleanor Said:

What questions do you ask an employer?

We Answered:

what are my chances of advancement is a great question shows you have drive ... how long has the position that i am applying for been open, also explain that although you do not have the experience that they are seeking if they give you the chance to prove yourself they will not be let down