{"id":87062,"date":"2025-08-13T15:25:08","date_gmt":"2025-08-13T21:25:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rmcad.local\/?p=87062"},"modified":"2025-11-05T08:35:15","modified_gmt":"2025-11-05T15:35:15","slug":"10-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-starting-at-rmcad","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rmcad.edu\/blog\/10-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-starting-at-rmcad\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting at RMCAD"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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So you\u2019ve received your acceptance letter and you\u2019re excited to begin classes at Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design! While starting college can be one of the most exciting times of your life, it can also be one of the most overwhelming. Between choosing <\/span>art classes<\/span>, getting to know classmates and professors, and finding where you fit in, there\u2019s a lot to take in. To help avoid some of the trial and error, we interviewed four recent RMCAD graduates for their best <\/span>college advice<\/span> for incoming and current students. Whether you\u2019re starting your first semester or earning your second bachelor\u2019s degree, here are 10 <\/span>college tips<\/span> that RMCAD students wish they knew before starting.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

1. The Importance of Time Management<\/b><\/h2>

Balancing Creative Projects and Class Deadlines<\/span><\/h3>

Creative work can be incredibly time-consuming. Unlike subjects with clear-cut answers, art assignments often require extra time for experimentation, revision, and execution. Quinn Bruck, an Interior Design graduate, says, \u201cFrom the beginning, you need to understand what your timing is and how you work in class or online. It\u2019s important to understand which professor requires what because those targets will always change. Some professors care about certain assignments over others, and they\u2019re all different.\u201d It\u2019s easy to underestimate how long a project will take or get lost in perfecting details. Balancing that with general education courses and life outside of <\/span>art schoo<\/span>l can quickly become overwhelming. Prioritizing tasks and setting clear goals for each work session makes a huge difference.<\/span><\/p>

Using Tools Like Planners and Digital Calendars<\/span><\/h3>

Keeping track of assignments, critiques, and personal projects is much easier with the help of planners and digital tools like Google Calendar or Notion. Cynthia Figueroa, an Interior Design graduate, shared, \u201cFor me, it made a huge difference just utilizing a planner and Google Calendar to help with reminders for deadlines or reaching out to professors.\u201d Mapping out deadlines, class schedules, and even blocked-off creative time can help you stay focused and avoid last-minute stress. Bruck shared that as a deadline-oriented person, the typical Wednesday and Sunday night deadlines were very helpful for her, but this could look different for everyone. The earlier you build a time management routine, the smoother your semesters will go.<\/span><\/p>

2. Critiques Are Meant to Help You Grow<\/b><\/h2>

Learning to Embrace Constructive Feedback<\/span><\/h3>

At first, critiques can feel intimidating, especially when you\u2019ve poured your heart into your work. But learning to separate yourself from your work is essential. Rachel Mitchell, an Illustrative Design graduate, described her own difficulties with adjusting to criticism. \u201cIt feels so hard when you\u2019ve put so much work into a project and so much time into the small details. But ultimately, your peers are there to help you get better, and there\u2019s always room for improvement.\u201d Feedback is part of the process, and it\u2019s there to help you see what\u2019s working, what\u2019s not, and how to improve. The most successful artists are the ones who are open to growth.<\/span><\/p>

How to Give and Receive Criticism Effectively<\/span><\/h3>

Offering thoughtful feedback to peers can sharpen your own critical eye. Be specific, be kind, and focus on the intention of the piece. Mitchell explained the importance of receiving constructive criticism, but also making sure you\u2019re providing productive feedback as well. \u201cI felt that my feedback was valuable and valued by the people I was working with.\u201d When receiving critique, listen without defensiveness and ask questions if something\u2019s unclear. It\u2019s not about \u201cfixing\u201d your work to please others, it\u2019s about learning how to make your creative vision stronger.<\/span><\/p>

3. Don\u2019t Be Afraid to Explore Different Media<\/b><\/h2>

RMCAD Encourages Interdisciplinary Work<\/span><\/h3>

At RMCAD, you\u2019re encouraged to step outside your comfort zone and <\/span>explore different art mediums<\/span>. Even if you’re focused on animation, taking a painting or sculpture class can teach you something new about form, color, or texture that improves your primary work. Bruck suggests doing thorough research before <\/span>art classes<\/span> even begin. \u201cInterview with a current student or review the course catalogs and see what your degree requires in terms of different interests and understanding whether or not you would like to be more specific and what other electives you\u2019d like to take advantage of.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Surprising Discoveries Can Lead to New Passions<\/span><\/h3>

Many students come in with one idea of what they want to do and leave with an entirely different goal. Figueroa described her experience with this discovery. \u201cComing into RMCAD, I didn\u2019t know that they offered two different Interior Design programs until partway through my freshman year. I wish I had researched that more.\u201d You might take a photography elective and fall in love with it, or discover that you enjoy collaborating on sound design more than you expected. Don\u2019t limit yourself. College is the time to explore, and RMCAD allows you to do so.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>

4. Your Professors Are Invaluable Resources<\/b><\/h2>

Take Advantage of Their Industry Experience<\/span><\/h3>

Professors often have deep ties to their industries. They\u2019ve worked with major studios, shown in galleries, and published work in professional settings. Tap into their knowledge! Bruck shared her timeless <\/span>college advice<\/span>, \u201cPeople are your biggest resource\u201d. Asking professors about their career paths, the industry today, and how they navigated challenges might prove to be surprisingly helpful in discovering your own creative journey.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Office Hours Aren\u2019t Just for Academic Help<\/span><\/h3>

Office hours can be great for feedback on projects or help understanding an assignment, but they\u2019re also a great time to connect, ask career questions, or get advice on your <\/span>art portfolio<\/span>. Jarline Duran, a Graphic Design graduate, shares, \u201cThe teachers were always so supportive. They always understood that you were working, that you had a life outside of class, and that events would pop up that you can\u2019t anticipate.\u201d Building relationships with your professors can lead to mentorship opportunities and even future job recommendations.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

5. Community and Collaboration Matter<\/b><\/h2>

Get Involved in Student Clubs and Events<\/span><\/h3>

Creative work can sometimes feel isolating, especially if you’re working late hours or learning remotely. But there\u2019s a strong, vibrant community and <\/span>student life<\/span> at RMCAD whenever you need it. Join clubs, volunteer for events, or attend gallery and speaker nights. These connections can lead to friendships, collaborations, and support when you need it most. Mitchell attributed her strongest connections to the <\/span>American Institute of Graphic Design<\/span><\/a> (AIGA) student chapter. \u201cGetting involved with AIGA was the thing I am most grateful for. I had so many friendships come from that club, as well as valuable internships and the internship that I\u2019m currently working for. All of the connections I made in that club were invaluable.\u201d Bruck found similar success as a RMCAD Student Ambassador, \u201cI got so many more recommendation letters because I was a student ambassador, because they were more inclined to help me because they knew my interests and my skillset.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Working with Peers Teaches Real-World Skills<\/span><\/h3>

Group projects aren\u2019t just about sharing the workload\u2014they mirror real-world creative environments where collaboration is key. Bruck shared, \u201cYou do more with more people, and the more you allow people to help you, the more successful you\u2019re going to be. You cannot get through <\/span>art school<\/span> alone.\u201d Learning how to communicate your ideas, respect others’ input, and build something together is a skill that will serve you well in any creative career.<\/span><\/p>

6. Art Supplies<\/b> and Software Can Be Costly\u2014Plan Ahead<\/b><\/h2>

Budgeting for Materials Is Essential<\/span><\/h3>

From sketchbooks and canvases to subscriptions and software, creative tools add up quickly. Look ahead at supply lists and plan your budget early. Buck suggests, \u201cDo your research on what you\u2019re going to need. Look through your entire <\/span>art degree<\/span> program to see what software you\u2019re expected to know and run in your final <\/span>art classes<\/span> before you buy your computer or tablet.\u201d Buying used, renting equipment, or applying for student discounts can help lighten the load.<\/span><\/p>

Knowing What You Really Need vs. Nice-to-Haves<\/span><\/h3>

It’s tempting to buy every tool you see on an art supply website, but not everything is essential.\u00a0 \u201cDon\u2019t buy all your <\/span>art supplies<\/span> before you start your course. Art stores will always be there if you need them later on. You don\u2019t need to buy every marker and paint brush listed before you know you\u2019ll be using them. Be savvy with your money,\u201d says Bruck. Focus on what your courses require, and build your toolkit as you go. Additionally, speak with former students or instructors as to what materials are worth investing in and what can wait.<\/span><\/p>

7. Online and On-Campus Programs Offer Flexibility<\/b><\/h2>

Know Your Learning Style and Choose Accordingly<\/span><\/h3>

Whether you attend classes in person or opt for online learning, both formats have their advantages. Duran had her reservations when starting Graphic Design at RMCAD while living in New York and working a full-time job. Having taken some online classes previously, she was concerned the workload would be overwhelming, but was pleasantly surprised to learn otherwise. \u201cWhen I took on the opportunity to study at RMCAD, I was afraid of the workload being too much. But I felt like the classes were organized the right way. Every week, it was so organized and I never felt like I was falling behind. I felt like I had so much flexibility and I was still able to graduate from college and that\u2019s one of the things I loved about RMCAD.\u201d Online programs can offer more flexibility, especially if you\u2019re balancing school with work or family. On-campus programs may offer more in-person studio time or spontaneous collaboration.<\/span><\/p>

Both Formats Provide Access to the Same Creative Resources<\/span><\/h3>

At RMCAD, both online and on-campus students have access to the same experienced faculty, creative feedback, and student services. There\u2019s also a large variety of <\/span>clubs and organizations<\/span><\/a> to join for both campus and online students. Bruck shared, \u201cI leaned on career services, I leaned on my financial aid supervisor, I leaned on my admissions counselor. I asked so many questions before and during school. Am I on track? What else can I be doing? What am I not utilizing? Everyone is there to help you, especially career services. That is a very unique opportunity that RMCAD offers.\u201d No matter your path, you\u2019re supported with the tools and guidance you need to succeed.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

8. Your Portfolio Will Constantly Evolve<\/b><\/h2>

Save All Your Work, Even Early Projects<\/span><\/h3>

You never know which piece might be the foundation for a future <\/span>art portfolio<\/span> or showcase your progress. Mitchell shares, \u201cImperfection doesn\u2019t mean failure. The process is longer than one piece of artwork.\u201d Save everything. Even early work has value, it\u2019s all part of your journey and can sometimes be reworked into something stronger. \u201cAt one point, you might think \u2018I can\u2019t do this anymore\u2019, but you are doing it.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Start Building Your Online Presence Early<\/span><\/h3>

Creating an online <\/span>art portfolio<\/span> or social media presence during school helps you get comfortable sharing your work. Platforms like Behance, Instagram, or personal websites can help you connect with peers, potential clients, and future employers. Start small and stay on top of keeping it updated.<\/span><\/p>

9. Inspiration Can Come From Unlikely Places<\/b><\/h2>

Visit Galleries, Attend Lectures, and Explore<\/span><\/h3>

Creativity doesn\u2019t exist in a vacuum. Inspiration can be found in city murals, unexpected conversations, or even a local thrift store. Take time to explore Denver\u2019s creative scene or attend campus lectures and workshops. Bruck suggests taking advantage of any and all RMCAD events. \u201cAttend VASD and every speaking event you can and take advantage of those opportunities. Hear what artists in the field are actually doing and prepare meaningful questions before you go. Do your research on the speaker and come in with questions that are relevant to your field and your personal journey.\u201d Broadening your experiences can fuel new ideas.<\/span><\/p>

Stay Curious and Open to New Experiences<\/span><\/h3>

Be open to learning from everything\u2014even mistakes. A failed project can teach you more than a successful one. Stay curious, ask questions, and remember that your perspective is constantly evolving.<\/span><\/p>

10. You Don\u2019t Have to Have It All Figured Out<\/b><\/h2>

It\u2019s Okay to Change Your Mind<\/span><\/h3>

College is a time for discovery, not definitive answers. Your interests may shift, your goals may change, and that\u2019s not only okay, it\u2019s expected. Allow yourself to explore different paths without pressure. Mitchell shares, \u201cThe hard thing you\u2019re going through in school isn\u2019t going to matter when you\u2019re done, the failures don\u2019t add up to much if you keep going.\u201d<\/span><\/p>

Focus on Progress, Not Perfection<\/span><\/h3>

Perfectionism can be paralyzing, especially in creative work. Instead of aiming for flawless results every time, focus on growth. Bruck says journaling helps her keep better track of her progress. \u201cSmall goals are very important. It\u2019s really important for me to journal every day, even for just 5 minutes. It allows me to understand if I\u2019m processing and understanding what skills I\u2019m building, and keep track of those things. So now, at the end of my <\/span>art degree,<\/span> I\u2019m able to see how my goals aligned with where I am and how I achieved those skills.\u201d Each project is a step forward, even if it doesn\u2019t turn out how you imagined. Learn from the process and keep moving.<\/span><\/p>

Your Creative Path Ahead\u00a0<\/b><\/h2>

Starting college is exciting, challenging, and full of unexpected lessons. From managing your time to building your <\/span>art portfolio<\/span>, navigating critiques, and finding your community, there\u2019s a lot to take in. But remember: you\u2019re not alone. Every artist starts somewhere, and every step you take, no matter how small, gets you closer to your goals. Stay curious, stay open, and most importantly, enjoy the journey.<\/span><\/p>

Start Your Artistic Journey Today!\u00a0<\/b><\/h2>

RMCAD offers year-round classes in both online and in-person formats, so you can choose the learning experience that works best for you. <\/span>Request information<\/span><\/a> to learn more about our <\/span>art degree <\/span>programs today, or take the next step in your artistic journey by completing our online <\/span>application<\/span><\/a> for admission.<\/span><\/p>

Many of the quotes in this story have been edited for brevity and clarity by the author, but retain the significance and purpose of the original speaker.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

So you\u2019ve received your acceptance letter and you\u2019re excited to begin classes at Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design! While starting college can be one of the most exciting times of your life, it can also be one of the most overwhelming. Between choosing art classes, getting to know classmates and professors, and finding […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":45,"featured_media":87069,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[78,58,62,80],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-87062","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-art-education","category-artist-tips","category-favorite","category-fine-arts"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting at RMCAD - RMCAD<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"New to RMCAD? 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