Saya

Printmaking

Saya

Minor:History

Hometown:State College, Pennsylvannia

Extra-curriculars:Watching movies, bike riding, grocery shopping; World War II propaganda, zoology, and optical illusions

Why did you choose Skidmore?

I applied to three schools–two art schools and Skidmore–and decided that I would be happiest with a balance of academic and studio classes. Skidmore has a great art department and a wide variety of academic programs. Students in every department are encouraged to do some interdisciplinary exploration, which is easy at a school like this. It isn’t overwhelmingly big or claustrophobically small and has a cozy campus with great resources. Ultimately, my decision relied on how much financial aid each school offered me and Skidmore came out on top.

What do you love about Skidmore?

Socially, it’s very satisfying. There are students here from all sorts of backgrounds with a lot of different interests. The dining hall has generous hours and really good food, essential to any college student’s quality of life. The art studio is open twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, which makes doing work outside of class a breeze, regardless of how crazy your schedule is. The library has a lot of great books and a huge collection of movies that you can borrow and watch on huge screens in empty lecture halls. Health services, the counseling center, printing, personal server space on the Skidmore website, cable television, and equipment lending are but a few of the many services provided to students for free. We get a lot of lectures, recitals, and exhibits as well as fun concerts and events. And there are busses to New York City a few times a semester, which is cheap and convenient for day trip, whether you want to visit museums or eat your way through Chinatown.

Any advice for prospective students?

When you visit, find an art student to give you a quick tour of the studio or explore on your own. Don’t be scared to ask students any questions that the office of admissions couldn’t answer. For the most part, we’re a friendly and enthusiastic bunch.

Student Profile: Megan | Students | Studio Art at Skidmore College

Megan

Communication Design

Megan

Minor:Management and Business

Hometown:Marston’s Mills, Massachusetts

Extra-curriculars:Extra Curricular Activities: Hiking, Creative Writing, Working for Skidmore’s Catering Department

Why did you choose Skidmore?

For me, Skidmore was the complete package. I knew that I wanted to pursue art in college, but I didn’t want that to mean I had to give up my love of other disciplines. Skidmore allows me to not only be engaged in an intense art program, but also discover interests in other areas, such as Business and Anthropology. Also, Skidmore’s superior living, dining, and studio facilities along with small class sizes and a great downtown were a huge factor in the decision process.

What do you love about Skidmore?

I love the energy that exists on Skidmore’s campus. I’ve had truly amazing professors in all the academic departments. In particular, the Studio Art professors aren’t just passionate artists and teachers, they also have genuine and open personalities that make you feel accepted and comfortable. I really enjoy when professors show us their art work, often times asking for our input, because it greatly adds to the active sense of community within the department. The amount of opportunities and resources that exist here is extensive, such as the many guest lectures, live music concerts, community service events, and the walking trails in the Northwoods. I feel as though I’m discovering more about the world and myself everyday while I’m a student here at Skidmore, and it’s a great feeling.

Any advice for prospective students?

When you are searching for a college that is a fit for you, go with your gut! If you’re exploring around the art studio, professors and students are always excited and happy to answer your questions.

Student Profile: Jon | Students | Studio Art at Skidmore College

Jon

Drawing

Jon

Hometown:Lexington, Massachusetts

Extra-curriculars:Piano and songwriting, Bandersnatchers (Skidmore A Capella), Sketchies (Skidmore sketch comedy), Early Childhood Center student teacher, playing cards, coffee.

Why did you choose Skidmore?

I wanted my college experience to be an organic one, a place where my interests could unfold as they came. I applied to Skidmore because it is first a well-rounded school academically, and also has an emphasis on the arts as a discipline; I’ve met and have come to know some extremely talented, interesting, and down to earth people in my time so far. Having been able to sample more than a handful of intro-to-humanities courses, I feel well balanced and grateful to have explored different interests, disorienting and reorienting myself along the way. As a side note, It didn’t hurt that Skidmore fell within the four-hour car ride radius I drew from my house, and that they offered me enough aid to equal my second choice, an in-state university.

What do you love about Skidmore?

The food; freshman and sophomore year on the unlimited meal plan was heaven, don’t let anyone tell you differently. Socially, it’s easy to meet people, get involved, and pursue what it is you want to. This is the time to set into motion your aspirations. I met my best friend on the second day of pre-orientation, but I love that I meet new faces each year. The studio is open 24/7 so it makes working outside of class flexible, and it’s a nice escape from the ordinary rhythms of the week. There are events going on just about every week and weekend: music, dance, guest lecturers, comedy, fundraising, sports. Downtown Saratoga is a definite plus and the Northwoods are also a great way to get some fresh air, walk, run, and relax. The fall foliage never ceases to amaze me, and the snow, while heavy at times, makes spring all the more worthwhile. 

Any advice for prospective students?

ask questions, study hard – don’t get too lazy.
loosen up, have fun – don’t get too crazy.