Academy of Art University

 

1

9

Melissa T.

San Francisco, CA

10/6/2009

Zero stars for the politics.

Five stars for the insane equipment you have access to.

Four stars for the classes (five for some teachers, less for others, negative points for some pretty ridiculous GE requirements).

Overall, three stars for this institution of higher learning (or whatever you'd rather call it).

As a current AAU student, I'd love to bitch about the politics and how my school is a glorified real estate company, but we all know that.  Instead I'll tell you what I've encountered in the hopes that you avoid the pitfalls and figure out what it is you need to exploit in order to get your money's worth out of this school.

The Academy of Art UNIVERSITY is now accredited.  This is important if you ever plan on pursuing a masters degree anywhere other than AAU.  It may or may not be important to getting a job in your field.  Seriously.

As a transfer student, the admissions office was glad to accept my credits in english, history, biology, etc.  What they didn't tell me was that I had to petition to have my major department credits accepted.  By the end of the first semester.  Or else.  Luckily the fashion department is one of the school's better departments, and the head of fashion journalism was glad to go over my transfer credits with me without having to wait for an appointment.

Also, art schools are expensive.  Last spring, students received a notice about the 9% increase in tuition starting this fall.  Considering the economy, especially California's unemployment rate, I was outraged as this could only mean one thing: international student enrollment is so high that the school can continue to dick everyone else around and still increase earnings.  Either that, or middle class Americans have been inspired by this fantastic recession to spend an extra $8,000 on their child's bachelor degree.  Anyway, I wrote a strongly worded blog post about it in one of my classes, and was disappointed to find that I was "encouraged" to take it down.  Not forced to, mind you, just encouraged "for [my] own good".

That being said, some of the classes are amazing.  And despite the fact that I am a fashion journalism major, I've really appreciated being required to take foundations classes in illustration and color theory.  I haven't appreciated being required to take ambiguous classes like "designing careers" or being made to take art history over again because the course descriptions differed by a few hundred years, though.

Other pointers:
* Get to know your teachers and department heads.  It's not high school, and they won't come find you.
* Don't try to take shortcuts by buying completed workbooks and such off of your dorm mates.  You're studying art -- the process is the whole point.
* In fact, don't live in the dorms.  You could get your own place for the same price AND not have to live in the loin.
* Hang in there.  It's true, the school will accept anyone with the money, but half of them will be gone the moment they hear the words "mandatory workshop hours".
* Don't try to hold down any sort of job if at all possible.  It's mayhem, and you'll barely have time to vent via yelp.  If you simply must, as many of us have to, try to control the violent urges you'll come to feel around your privileged classmates as they whine about how they were totally up all night doing homework because they were too drunk to do it all weekend.

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18

13

Jenny M.

Fremont, CA

9/27/2009

It appears as if a fair amount of the students here expect education to come served to them with a silver spoon... and are hypersensitive to criticism.

In my experience, the minds you want to be working with in the future aren't complaining. Instead, they are focusing their energy on making the most of the school and city's resources. If they are complaining, they are also doing something to make the school a better place. You know... taking action?  

These people are also the balancedddd people, who realize that all art schools are quite expensive, and that the Academy of Art is actually equally, if not less, expensive.

I couldn't believe it when one of my friends complained that they weren't paying so much money, "just to get [her] work torn down". What the hell? Are you paying to get a pat on your back? Did you come here to confirm your imaginary brilliance? I would have been supportive if she really believed in her concept, but she didn't.

Note to prospective students: The dropout rate here is very high, and I think the university is hurt by its own vision- of making a space for artists who never would have gotten into another art university (because they all require portfolios, which require the luxury of time and money, which not everyone has!)... as a result you get a fair load of people who are sucky at art, have been encouraged by misdirected familial enthusiasm, and come in without a real willingness to break themselves down and take on the full task of being a student. Without sincerity and modesty. Annd then you know, there's always someone to blame when they realize it's not easy A's anymore.

I'll be glad to know that when I graduate, I'll be sitting next to creatives who are geniuses, hardworking and most likely both, and even more likely paving the way of innovation and creative thought from San Francisco to New York.

This isn't to say that there isn't room for improvement. The AAU can certainly improve in efficiency and focus on building a student union of some kind.

As for the disconnected student body, this depends... on the student body, doesn't it? Less complaining and whining, more doing.

I'll expand on this post later, with stats and percentages, etc. Just got riled up by an AAU Students-against the Tuition Increase group. Over 1,000 students joined, only four made potentially useful posts, and nope. All posts but for one or two are just on here to vent. An unfortunate response to a call for action.

Need a little left-brain behavior, guys...

Anyway. Prospective students, just want you to know- there is quality instruction here, as well as quality thought and inspiration to be found. But you've really got to want it- as in want with all your body and soul, as in you have researched this and understand that the Academy of Art is a completely different experience from a four-year liiberal arts college. You have to have a lusty appetite for learning, too. Creativity is a lifestyle, not a hobby.

There's a reason double majors are not allowed.

more later.

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5

11

Tasha A.

San Francisco, CA

10/21/2009

I've been there 1/2 a semester and can not say much about it.  I've already encountered arrogance,  impatience,  and boorishness.

I'm in the MFA program- fashion department. No previous experience in fashion design, just utter passion and self study.

if you really want attend art school  but have no previous experience in that field, I suggest taking intro classes elsewhere. Even though it may be your first semester and you're told the  MFA is "geared for those not in the industry already " and it's "ok not to have previous experience"  is total bs.

There is no  honesty about what level you have to be at on your first day of class in order to really not want to kill yourself, drop out or  have teachers hate you and treat you  and your classmates like shit.  
There are huge gaps in peoples artistic level and no learning curve if you're new. They throw you right in without  a foundation and piss on you  and tell you it's your fault you dont know more if you mention that fact.

Be prepared to get no help and not have your "teachers" have office hours or talk to you out of class, or even say hello or answer a quick query  for that matter out of class.

Fashion Department:

1. There is no intro to design or design principals, they dont teach you about clothes and cuts  and fabric or color first- they say draw me 85 outfits by Monday that are balanced and done and totally thought out from hem to zipper. If you want to learn that well, you bought like $400 worth of books so learn everything  at the same time as you're already expected to produce.
I thought I would learn about how to design first, maybe a bit about it's history,  not just do it and I'll  critique you  in your first month.

I'm not bitching, I'm saying the program needs to start with a foundation and have more classes like "fabrics" which apparently you dont learn till later- makes no sense to me.

2. Kevy DeSantis (construction)- Students are having major issues with her. There are some issues with her regarding favoritism and treating her foreign students badly.

I didnt understand the purpose of why we were told to do a certain task  she said,    " you're like all my ESL students, I think you have a learning disability."  She also speaks down to,  is rude to  and speaks louder at  the students who dont speak English very  well, (which are numerable).
I've never  sewn in my life, and she shows you once then you're supposed to take off like a rocket.  She goes way to fast,  and if you ask her to slow down or show you something again she will degrade you and sigh and huff at you like you're a puppy who's pooped on the carpet.

I met with the department head over her comment and  general rudeness and about workshops being cancelled with no notice etc. etc.

SCENE:
I walked in,  smile, ( with the intention of  resolve things and having a better experience and making a difference). I  go to shake his hand and he  glares at me and is  hesitant to even shake my  hand like he's  arrogant  royalty who does not want germs from commoners.
He  say's  the  issues brought up are all  my own fault and there was basically nothing else to say. Then  he dismisses me.
-fin-
There was nothing besides overwhelming defensiveness and utter arrogance.  He left no  room to tell him the flaws in the system  or how my teacher is talking down to asian students or other things  I   have seen  in just over a month.
There was no comment from him like "I'm sorry she shouldn't have said that",  or " I'll look into why workshops were cancelled without notice", " your teacher has no office hours because xyz..."  
He portrayed the Academy as  having  no faults,  that my teacher was  probably right about my having a learning disability, now get out of my office you're wasting my precious time. BLEH!!!

There's bad communication within the school.  I show up for workshops that were cancelled days ago with no announcements anywhere
I drop a class and apparently the teacher still thinks I'm in it but just not showing up- but fails to email me or check her roster  but has  another student   give me that message from her that she's noticed I'm not there and what's the deal?
WAY TO GO ADVISORS, really doing your job that I just paid $30,000 for.

Admissions advisors will call you all the time and help BEFORE they have your $$$$$, once you're in  it might take a week to hear from them or your department advisors.
Since you cant drop a class on your own and have to contact them so they can do it ( but try to talk you out of it first)  , I lost out on 75% of tuition for one class because they didnt get back to me in over a week.

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0

5

Emily R.

San Francisco, CA

7/8/2009

I have attended 4 colleges. And maybe that makes me sound like a slacker OR a serial drop out. I'm just trying to find my niche. The Academy of Art University is the worst school I have ever attended. I truely don't think they care about giving their students any kind meaningful educational skills. THEY WANT YOUR MONEY. Everything has very costly fees. The people who attend and teach are YUPPIES & POSERS. I'm sorry if this hurts anyones feelings. I honestly want to stop anyone who is considering going to this school.

How does one teach art anyway? Art not supposed to have rules. It comes from your soul. It may seem like a great way to get your name out there. But this school may end up hendering your abilities and your spirit. This school is the worst mistake I have ever made and I don't even believe in making mistakes.

I'm sorry Academy of Art...but you suck.

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0

8

Ainavo Y.

Pasadena, CA

8/1/2009

I planned on attending this school, but after seeing how much each term would cost me (over 16,000), I quickly changed my mind. I called my adviser Rick Pomfret and told him I wanted to withdraw and he said okay, I'll put that in. Five days later, I log onto my student account and see that I am still enrolled in the classes and I *owe* them 9,500$!!!! So I called the financial aid department and told them my problem and they said they'd have someone call me to take care of it.

It's been a day and still no one. I wasted 220$ that I  cannot get back. They'll only send you 20 $ of your freakin money. What a joke. So if you're rich or have no choice, go for it. Otherwise, AVOID AVOID AVOID.

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27

55

A P.

Livermore, CA

6/3/2009

I honestly believe that this school has been hyped up way too much. Yes, I was a student here for a year. I had to ride BART every day, to and from Pleasanton/Dublin - if you know where that is. Therefore I wasn't able to put as much time into my work. It is true, you do have 24+ hours of work a week. Well, in the major I was in.

I'm not going to lie, I had a great year of experience. I was an Illustration major, and I did enjoy is very much. Until around the second semester.. it felt like every assignment was literally being shoved down my throat. I felt very overwhelmed, even when I didn't have a job at the time. Just a few tips... Don't buy EVERYTHING that Utrecht tells you to. I learned the hard way, and now I have 5 pads of paper that has never been used.  Arrive early to 79 NM, over-crowded buses happen daily. Sorry, but I don't like to be forced to create art. Ain't my thang.

I had been very turned off from art because of that reason. So, just as a suggestion- if you're planning on attending AAU, be prepared. Very - prepared. Because, I know I wasn't. Feel free to ask any questions.

PS. don't be fooled by all their photos online, it's a lot harder than you think. ;)

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6

60

Alexia A.

San Francisco, CA

3/30/2009

I 'd rather use my experience to give some valuable insight to those about to sign their life and wallets away to AAU . My experience comes from the MPT Dept. only.

This is the school I learned from most, ever. Regardless I realized it wasn't worth it and neither did I have the money or wanted my parents to sign loans for me. Why torture your parents with that? Be responsible and never ever do that.

I dropped out because no "art" degree is worth so much. In the art field, what you do is more important than where you went to school and AAU doesn't have the best teachers ever. Not even the installations are worth so much. You only use those sometimes, actually. The "private" college life almost says "I can't do math or science so I decided to pay thousands of dollars instead. I'm just a brat" and employers hate that.

Don't bother with an AA.
C'mon, don't let them insult your intelligence in singing you up for that. You can get an AA anywhere else for cheaper and you're not even getting half the education with an AA. Besides, AA's don't impress anyone.

Don't bother with an undergrad degree either.
Not unless you are Christina Ricci, one of the Olsen twins, or Harry Potter's best friend.  Unless you already have an established reputation like that ,will you be able to pay back all that much money. Filmmaking is expensive and you don't want to pay back your loans when you could be buying nice equipment instead and making a living off it. That said, some courses are stupid. Regardless, I found them handy. For example, Sketching and such. It's very nice that this school provides you with a degree breakdown of where you want to focus your career but this isn't that special. So can any other school.An undergrad degree barely gives you a glimpse of what you want to do.

However; if your last name is Kennedy, Jackson, Clinton, Travolta, or Gates, go here and don't worry about flunking or turning in assignments! You're on safe ground!

Go here for a Master's. That's when it's worth the money and only then! By then you'll know whether you actually work in your field or not and their high-tech equipment will come in handy to your knowledge. Master degrees, though more expensive, take shorter to complete. I mean, if you're going to spend so much money, might as well have some knowledge already and use it to look your best. Master degrees are better than Bachelor's and it will look better to have a Master from a private school (with a great emphasis program) rather than a Bachelor's.

I plan on doing this assuming my career takes off. I'm not paying back loans while unemployed and State school is the best. And besides, if you're successful enough, your employer will help you pay for your Master's. For the meantime, $1,000 a semester is keeping me happy. Beat that!

P.S. You can now transfer units because they finally became WASC accredited. When I went to AAU they weren't accredited and so all my units were locked in there (but I got so many courses waived from talking to the chair department of the Cinema dept. in my school that it turned out just fine). Something to keep in mind. There's always a second chance in case you mess up.

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Elite '09

42

373

Stacey E.

Fairfax, CA

1/30/2009

I had a college diploma in publishing and had worked in several design firms before I decided to go back to school and get a more focused graphic design education. I looked at several schools and spoke to an art directors in the area. It turned out that AAU was a good fit for me. I'm now a third year Graphic Design student and I'd like to share some of my experiences here.

Admissions - Yes they take everyone but the classes are very difficult. Second year is usually when most of the student body really has to evaluate how much they really want to commit to their major.

Advising - I've been pretty happy with the process of having an advisor who helps me plan each semester.

Teachers - Honestly, I think the quality of instruction has been far greater than what I had an my previous public college. Everyone I've had at AAU is still working as a successful designer. If you look at the list of designers who founded the AIGA chapter in SF 25 years ago, many of them are involved in some way with AAU.

Classes - The class size cap is at 17 students and most classes are minimum 3 - 6 hours long.

As for cost, art schools are expensive. AAU is about half the price of Art Center which was my other option.

What you get - I think most students have strong process skills and are well educated in typography, package design, identity and comping. Students need to supplement their education with internships and be proactive about expanding their digital skills if they want to be really well rounded when they graduate.

******

If you look carefully at the one star reviews you'll see they are from people who never went to the school or they are blaming the school for their own failure as students and their inability to pay bills or manage their schedules.

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0

26

Buggler B.

San Francisco, CA

7/20/2009

Here's my advice to anyone considering Academy of Art Univer$ity.

DON'T DO IT!
I attended this "university" for 3 years and during my time I witnessed greed, poor teaching, and favoritism. The "University" bus lines are a joke and it really frustrated me when I had to take classes that had nothing to do with my major. I can recall going to classes that didn't have heaters and were separated from other classes by a removable wall, like a cubicle. YOU HAVE TO PAY FOR LOCKERS and textbooks of course which are insanely expensive. That's understandable but I was working part-time and simply could not make it.
I REGRET wasting my time and money at this "univiersity" and sadly I had to drop out. I wanted to be free, but now I am paying back my student loans...thank GOD I got out in time or I would've needed to borrow more money and the Academy of Art Financial Dept is super-ready to set you up with a loan.
I honestly could've taught myself what they taught me at Academy of Art University.

The "university" is about 90% asian (rich) and alot of my classmates were just weird and antisocial.

Academy of Art University is a real estate GIANT in San Francisco so that's why they want you to spend spend spend. They would turn the SF Cathedral into a campus if they had a chance or even SF city hall, heck they could afford it.

You have been warned.

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0

3

Molly W.

San Francisco, CA

4/4/2009

I'm a little confused as to why people who have never attended the school are reviewing.  Do you rate restaurants that you've never eaten at because you went in and looked at their menu?

But I digress.

I've gone here for 2 years now and I am enrolled in the Graphic Design Department and can only to speak to my experiences within that department.

Yes, It's open enrollment. But don't think that makes it an easy school. The herd has been culled, if you will, by the end of the first year.  To me the strategy makes a lot of sense.  Graduating high school in a lot of these fields you don't have a portfolio, and who really cares how you did in algebra and biology? They let you in and give you a chance, but make no guarantees that you will make it out.
Yes, it's expensive. But take a look at other comparable schools, they are too (in most cases even more so). But with this money there is the ability to hire professionals an make it worth their time.  
I feel like I'm getting a great education from professionals in the field and don't feel like I'll have a problem getting a job when I get out.

Don't come here expecting an easy art school though, you won't make it past the first semester.

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0

1

Christian P.

San Francisco, CA

10/18/2009

I'm pursuing my second bachelors degree, and I moved here from Florida. I am sad to say that I am really disappointed. I will say that the cost of tuition is CHEAPER than most private art schools, but I can see why now. The city is tough as it is to adapt to, and when you have more headaches at a school you're paying a pretty penny to attend, it's natural to have a high level of expectation. Here are my reviews in certain categories I thought were important:

Student Housing: STAY AWAY from this option!!!! Unless you're a recent high school graduate, I wouldn't suggest this option. For the price you pay and the amount of living space you get, it's such a rip off. The only way you may pay a somewhat "small" amount of money for housing is to share ONE room with THREE other student in bunk beds. I even opted for the second most expensive option to share a "studio" with another student for about $1000/month. The studio was literally about 250sq ft and in an OLD OLD building, paper thin windows and just OLD. Plus, it was supposed to be a "21 and up" housing building, yet my roomie moved in the prior semester when he was only 19....???? You can find MUCH better apartments and living arrangements for the same price. DON'T DO STUDENT HOUSING.

2) Education: Although this had some good things about it, for the most part it did not meet my expectations at all. After three semesters here, I came across TWO teachers that were really good. The rest I either couldn't follow because they were total scatter brains, and would run off on tangents ALL the time. It almost seemed as though some teachers just walked into class with a basic "idea" of what they were going to teach that day, and just basically "winged it". No structure to most classes, and sadly even the curriculum. In my third semester I found that I was being "RUSHED" when I was put into a print design class, with NO prior classes in color or font. BIG gaps in the curriculum. I even spoke to directors and professors. They seem to just do everything by trial and error, changing the curriculum "on the fly". I'm sorry, for an "accredited" institution this is TOTALLY unacceptable and unprofessional. But one EXCELLENT teacher is Dan Eriksson. VERY professional and VERY organized!

Oh, and when I see ads on craigslist looking for instructors at the Academy, that's a bad sign too!

3) Administration - I will say that the advisors were AWESOME. Very VERY nice (Christina Fetyko and Janet Alverado) Helpful to get me started and get adapted to the city. So no complaints there.

All in all, a mediocre school that is still in the development stages. I'm not a fan of the city though, with a RIDICULOUSLY high cost of living and the overwhelming amount of people there. You really can't expect any type of exclusivity with anyone, since everyone comes across so many faces on an HOURLY basis. If you're a native of the area, it may be a good choice. But if you're going to make a HUGE leap, like I did, I wouldn't recommend this. Look into maybe a state University with REAL accreditation and MUCH cheaper tuition.

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27

165

Joe S.

San Francisco, CA

1/4/2009

I GRADUATED from this place when it was still call the Academy of Art College, & Daddy DICK was still running the place from his bar stool at the old Trader Vic's off Sutter Street.

His LAWYER daughter who now runs the Land Massing BUSINESS & has made it the BRYMAN College for the Arts ( sorry Bryman College no offense) ....its RUINED, at time I am even ashamed to say I went there & have to make it clear to people when I went there.

Its a cheap way her to make lots of money by getting lots of Asian students over to the US by giving them students visas to get over ( they do not even have to speak English to get in ).

Kids SAVE your money & go to a better school......you do NOT see good schools placing ADs on TV to get students.....

GOOD SCHOOLS have GRAD students speak of their good education ....that use to happen a LONG time ago at the

Academy Of Art COLLEGE ..

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Elite '09

64

155

Michelle N.

San Francisco, CA

1/16/2009

Thank god I graduated after the name changed to University. I don't know how I would've felt if I had spent an arm and a leg to go to some damn art skoolz to learn how to draw naked people. Anyway, I have come to the conclusion that I have a love-hate relationship with the Academy.

I love that it taught me how to design so well that I could make fake Cal train tickets and save money on my ass kicking commute from SAN JOSE to freaking SAN FRANCISCO.

I hate it because even though I saved money with counterfeit tickets printed straight off of an Epson, I still had to pay $650 per unit and sold my soul to make ends meet.

I love it because I got to meet amazingly talented people.

I hate it because AAU is a greedy money sucking bitch and they also accept untalented people with large wallets.

I love it because it seriously kicked my butt and got me a job, straight outta college.

I hate it because I had many near death experiences due to sleep deprivation. One incident worthy of mentioning at job interviews is how I was kicking so much ass comping my own Type books that on one particular night before finals, the exacto blade broke and flung into my eye.

I love it because it's better than any other school I could have gone to in Nor-Cal and at least I can name five typefaces that aren't Helvetica, Arial, Times, Papyrus, or Comic Sans. Art Institute can suck it.

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14

32

ricky m.

San Francisco, CA

2/24/2009

This review comes from the view of a interested party & potential sutdent.  I had inquired to learn more about the continuing education programs, so when I was phoned the day after I had filled out my info form I was blown away by the call that followed.  

Understandably I know it's the job of admissions representatives to try and convince you why their programs are better than others.  So when I was phoned by a one of them after I had inquired about continuing education programs I was astonished at the lack of sincerity, their over confident sales pitch, and the lack of interest in myself, background, and what I wanted to have accomplished by attending.  

i would have thought the rep would want to hear why I was interested and any questions I had. Instead I got some formal read on the history, the quality of teachers and hardly  a chance to chime in.  

I'm saddened by the experience as a potential student and after reading some of the other Yelp reviews, I am not alone.

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0

14

Jenny S.

San Francisco, CA

7/22/2009

For potential students, please consider a different school and save your money.
This school seriously is a rip off. The school itself is a big joke.
The worst academic experience ever. It's so ridiculous how the school wants u to take stupid classes thats so unrelated to your major u dont even want to study for it. i really feel like paying over $2000 for a stupid survey class is retarded. I learned absolutely nothing from that class. I've taken few online classes and the teachers don't respond to u until the assignment is due and again, I haven't learned anything from the online classes.
I really hate this school. I seriously hate the very unkind accounting people, housing people (they wouldn't let me eat at the cafeteria because my money wasn't deposited in their bank. I starved for 2 days until my money was deposited) and the owner of this school.
seriously, this is one SHADY and GREEDY school

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8

29

Jon R.

San Francisco, CA

9/24/2008

Do you lack talent? Are you considering junior college? Want to make films about suicide or smoking pot? Then come to the academy and be with your peers!

Come for the techincal information. Just remeber you're not revolutionary and you're not going to make millions of dollars with your bad art.

(written in class)

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8

13

n d.

San Francisco, CA

10/16/2008

The first thing you learn in art school is how bad of an artist you are. The next thing you learn is that no matter how beautiful your work is, someone else's is always better. Once you realize this, you'll be fine.

You will live, breathe, sleep, eat art. Literally. Get used to ingesting charcoal sticks and washing black stuff out of your hair.

You will make lots of friends that you'll never be able to hang out with because of your work load.. Social life? Forget about it. Boyfriend? Don't be serious.

When you graduate, you will emerge a better artist. And if you've got brains, your potential for making money is limitless.

Ignore the naysayers, or should I say, haters. Do what you love - do it blindly.

Bonus: As a starving artist and starving student, you will never be fat. Call it the Freshman Negative 20.

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82

66

Dru P.

San Francisco, CA

7/15/2008

Slogan overheard one late night on MTV:  "Hey kids! If you forgot to study in high school, couldn't get in to an accredited university so daddy wants to pay for you to fly across the country to help fund a real estate mogul's quest to own san francisco...then hop on one of our refurbished prison buses and head down to AAU!"    

Seriously...this is not a school. No really who thinks this is actually a school?   Here is how it breaks down

Massive nationwide ad campaign+NO admission standards+7000 per 12 credit semester+part time non accredited instructors+Non transferable or accredited diploma+Overpriced student housing  = EQUALS = One fat cat previously wealthy doctor taking your parents or (even worse) your money and reinvesting it into even more real estate or refurbished antique cars.  And you get....fucking squat unless you impressed one of  your instructors enough to get an internship at the place where they really work.  Who knows maybe you could even get on as an instructor when your done to help with that 100K loan bill.

But seriously have you seen those cars in the gallery on Van Ness?  Thats your money...like 5 million worth.  

Keep studying....momma needs a new Bentley

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2

38

Storm S.

San Jose, CA

1/23/2009

Its the reason why there are starving artists!
prices of credits are insane.
Im never going back.

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21

54

Teresa H.

Washington, DC

7/9/2008

I went to the AAU for 2 semesters as Advertising major and withdrew.....  There are so many reason as to why I made the decision to leave.
The Money

The money issue... This is important b/c living in SF expensive so combine that with going to an expensive art school, books, supplies and computer software. Not to mention, I lived in the tin can dorms in Nob Hill so it got very pricey real quick.

No money = no respect. Heaven forbid your late with payment b/c they would pull you out of class.  Then they have the nerve to be cheap by closing the lab and library earlier than usual.

The Teachers/ Instructors

Some of the teachers are not accredited. Yes, most of them worked in the Advertising Field but I strongly feel if your teaching someone at an University level you should at minimum a degree or a masters at the very least.

Many instructors in the Advertising Dept were very disorganized, and lacked teaching skills and narrow minded. They don't take the time and nurture your artistic talent or show you how to enhance your skills. Everyone learns in different ways.  

The Counselors

3)   Counselors give horrible advice to students such as myself. They don't work with you to set up a feasible time frame for graduation and most are under the impression that its ok if it takes you 5 years to get a degree. (By allowing you to take unnecessary classes which causes you to spend money and waste time)

Or better yet they say that if your portfolio is strong  a company would pick you up so you don't even need a degree. I have mix feelings about this logic since the market place is so unpredictable you need a degree  to compete nowadays. Not good advice to tell someone who is 18 or 19.

Needless to say, my counselor graduated from a community college with only her AA hence my point not qualified to counsel college students.

3) The last straw: I received a letter that the Advertising Dept. lost its accreditation so I actually took that  a little bit of the counselors advice and transferred to San Francisco State University ( I college that I could afford & live comfortably in Nob Hill) where I received my degree.

FYI : None of my AAU courses were transferable so I lost a lot money and time!!!!

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7

9

margotelyse c.

San Francisco, CA

3/13/2008

A lot of reviewers seem to be unable to get past the business aspect of AAU. And yes, the politics are annoying and distracting.
For the purpose of this review, I'm focusing on the Animation Department (Undergrad) and the education I've gotten. (I'm graduating in May 2008 and began here in 2002) I won't be comparing this to other schools, because I've never attended another in a college situation. If you want to know what you're in for as an incoming student, read on:

The 'Foundations' department is good. I'd change a few things, but over all it caters to helping all levels of student succeed and excel in the basics. Figure drawing, Perspective, Analysis of Form, basic Figure Sculpting, Still life Painting, and the dreaded Color and Design will take you from "I like drawing sailor moon!" to a level of competency  in basic drawing that will help you convey your thoughts and ideas to others in a clear manner. Yes, these classes can be tough. It's part of the weeding out process. Open admissions means they get a lot of students who aren't quite sure or ready to really dive in. If you can pass color & design, you'll probably survive the school. Most of the folks you meet in these classes will drop out by the 4th semester (in my experience)

Splattered into the rest of your time at AAU (again, as an undergrad) are the classic classes of any university. Art history, writing classes, random mythology and religion, as well as a few language classes, psychology, acting, and business law. If you're smart, you'll spread them out and use them as filler classes so you don't get stuck with three semesters in a row of tough, time intensive core classes.

As for the actual department, I am a fan. The instructors tend to be good, although we all differ in learning styles, so an instructor I like may be someone you can't learn from. I wish there was more diversity of instructors available within the character animation major, since it seems that the mid-level classes are all taught by the same person, and to get someone else you really have to go out of your way. This is assuming you aren't getting into the Pixar classes (I never took them, and now it seems silly to have wasted such a resource). I'm currently in Jeff Cooperman's class, and enjoying it immensely.

The major crunch in the labs happens around finals, when all the students come out of the woodwork with a dozen excuses why they're no longer working at home or are suddenly trying to do a full semesters worth of work in the final few days. Along with the advanced texture/lighting/rendermans students using a goodly portion of the labs to render out projects for days at a time, computers can be sparse. Best to keep up and work and get into the labs early early early in the day and stay late. Since the labs close around 1:30, 2 am, and opens at 7:30.. students are forced to go home and get some sleep. My mom laughed at this, but when she saw my best friend over at Ex'pressions staying at school and sleeping under the table for days at a home without showering or changing clothes.. the laughter turned into a nervous chuckle. Good or bad, it's policy.

To address the issue of AAU being a 'factory' trying to get your money.. well, sure, aren't most private schools the same way? Art is big money, and a very popular major. You pay because it costs to get instructors who CAN make more money doing something else. They're training their future competition. But, again, I'm ignoring the politics of the business. It really is just a distraction, as far as I'm concerned. So what if the owner is rich? I'm here to get an education, and as long as I insist on learning everything my teachers can toss at me, I'm doing just that.

Over all, my 6 year experience and education gets summed up with "4 stars".

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11

44

anita h.

San Francisco, CA

6/10/2008

No money, no talk is their motto here.  AAU is a money machine that thrives on students bank accounts.. or student loans shall I say?  They don't care about you, they don't care about quality education.. because if they did they'd hire some real "teachers."  These teachers don't teach.. they read from a damn $150 text. Pathetic.  Not to say that ALL the teachers here suck.  I've had my fair share of amazing teachers.  

I'd say for Fashion Merchanding... HELL NO, but If you're into Design and go for it.  AAU is has a credible Fashion Design program which I've heard requires a lot of all nighters.  I have never met a Merchandising student who loved AAU... that says a lot about this school & program.

Good
-  hmm.. Near a Peets, Starbucks, Walgreens, and Soup Freaks!
- instructors that make you feel like you've showed up early to class when you're 15 mins late.. and they're 30 mins late AKA TEACHERS ARE A JOKE!
-not ever needing to buy a text book, because I just read it in the library 30 mins before class starts at the library. Guess instructors play it by ear?

Bad
-90% of my instructors
-Student Advisors that don't return your call or email. Yeah..  they really care about you and your education.. WHAT A JOKE.
-Those prison AAU buses.. I'd much rather walk.. thank you very much
-The disgusting AAU school apparel.. eek

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1

6

Kate R.

San Francisco, CA

4/1/2008

This school is great - as long as you have artistic talent to begin with and are willing to work really hard to improve. What you get out of this school depends on how much effort you put in. You have to be willing to work hard for what you want.

It may not be for everyone, but I've had (and continue to have) a great experience at AAU.

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3

9

Vanessa O.

Glendale, CA

10/6/2008

I've tried to like this school, but I've dealt with so much of their administration, or lack thereof, that I can't fathom anything better than one star.  They seem to lack the ability in resolving issues for their students despite the amount of money we've shuffled out to them.

There are quite a few amazing teachers, that should be commended for their ethics, knowledge, and general concern in their students. However, a lot of the politics and greed that surround the school sort of put a damper on the student body.

I've been going through a dispute with the school and it's office bubbleheads for nearly 6 months now and I've received about 5 returned phone calls for my (literally) 50 phone calls.  It's no coincidence that anything involved with money takes all the patience you can muster, and that's not even saying you'll get it resolved. In many cases, people just get tired of fighting and lose money to the school, which is what they expect you to do.

If you go to this school, research your teachers because a good one will definitely make your life and career worth while. Don't let AAU take advantage of you, because guaranteed, at one point or another, they will try.

And above all NETWORK!!!! Inside and outside the school. It'll make all the difference, I promise.

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0

21

Bridget M.

Albany, CA

4/20/2009

As a photography student, I love this school! Mainly for the teachers. I would recommend taking your general ed at a community college then transferring, unless you have insanely rich parents. I'm so sad I have to drop out, but the school is just too expensive! I really learned a lot the two years I was here though. I definitely don't regret it.

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1

1

Claudia M.

Portland, OR

10/16/2009

I feel like 'returning' here would lead me into a 'IF sell soul/spend BIG=you good old boy artist' club, which, regardless of the success of the post-mortem outcome, would inevitably shatter my independent creative soul...but then again, maybe not!  Um, the choppy asianized speak, by the way, is just reflective of the student body.  So, foot in mouth, I really could use some advice from people more than anything, Just email me (emeraldgorp@hotmail.com) some opinions that aren't being sugarcoated or filtered for reviewer morale.  I attended this school online during the summer, and between the insanely high cost of tuition and the short visit I made to the school....(sandwiched between clueless international students, and watery eyed, zit-faced high school seniors with no clue of what they wanted, alllll wearing converse, ugh), I sort of dropped out prematurely to go to a local Oregon state school.  However I somewhat regret this when I read the good reviews because I a) am no longer a watery eyed high schooler and know what I want, b)believe the MFA program couldbe worth it...and then again online is too impersonal and detached for learning, I think, and this is a damn expensive school with loads of political and commercial propoganda I may never be able to overlook if I decided to return...I am up in arms because I half am intrigued and want to return and see if I might actually obtain a photo journalism career in a leading position someday, and I half want to, oh, I don't know, quit school altogether and move somewhere creative and vibrant to find some hands-on, non-academic learning, and be a non-institutional artist.  I really think the reviewers who call this the "Harvard of art schools" are completely delusional.  In fact art school and Harvard should not be placed in the same sentence.  Harvard art students maybe can say that.  Otherwise, I am still pondering, so what do you think?...by the way, I deferred for two years before my one term.  I applied with a portfolio, got into the masters, then deferred and upon my return a year later the admissions had lost my portfolio, my advisor forgot not only the content of my art but my general interest of study (?), and he said it made no difference with talk about Harvard...., and then tried to change my major...twice.  They didn't care what I wanted to do as much, (at least I believe this may be the case) as they cared about getting students into their new experimental multimedia communications program....which was NEVER my study interest.  WTF?

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0

7

Peep D.

San Francisco, CA

5/8/2009

Academy of Art University is the bomb. Every single person that I ever met that says negative things about the school are Art School Drop outs. True Story, I was at Merrit College and this lady was like i hate the Academy of Art University. I said "why" she said because there is no community. I said "what are you doing now?" She replied "I am a disabled adult" as if that is career choice. Art is amazing if even you are disabled you can do it. This is prime example of the retards that are drop out. The Academy of Art University lets you try to be an artists no matter what previous experience or background you have. This is the problem because these idiots come to AAU, can't hack it then drop out and talk mess. Most importantly the industry knows whats up. When you show AAU on the resume, your getting the interview. The proof is in the work.
AAU has grads working at every major art and design industry employer that you can think of....EA GAMES, PIXAR, ILM, APPLE, GOOGLE, Activision, Blizzard, Productions  like American Idol, Fox News, CNN, Dreamworks, Sony and more. Have you seen the MAC vs. PC commercials (AAUGrad)? How about Ratouille? (AAU Grad won Academy Award). How about Pirates of the Carribbean (DAVY JONES) AAU GRAD). Do you have the new IPOD nano (AAU GRAD) was one of the desingers for the interace. Itunes too....Yahoo messenger....See Transormers, Iron Man.....(illustration dept) storyboards. Also Iron Man 2. Computer Arts-AAU grads have one first place at SIGGRAPH-4 years in a row in the student categories. .....I can go on forever....check the facts. I get so tired of hearing people trashing this school without proper information just because they talked to a drop out or pseudo artists who is still trying to make a living doing art. aaaahhhh i feel much better now......I am biased since I am in the MFA program, but the bias comes from facts not hearsay. Research it more then make it happen...

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6

15

Brit H.

San Francisco, CA

8/7/2007

I graduated with a BFA in Fine Arts in 2007 and am pleased with my education and the time spent there. I can only really speak of my experience in the fine art department and from what i hear they (depts) vary greatly. Here are some bullets that might be helpful for anyone thinking of attending:

-It is a private (for profit school) however the tuition could be worse...much much worse.

-The dropout rate is incredibly steep, particularly for freshmen. This is because everyone who applies is accepted and a portfolio is not required. I was a resident advisor and i watched as the students in my dorm moved back home one after the other.

-As you progress through your education the classes get better. You start with foundation stuff and then slowly the people that shouldn't be there get weeded out, and the peer group becomes one of the most valuable resources you will come out of the experience with.

-Most the teachers are really terrific. Some are more difficult to access, but the work is worth it. You can't expect them just to MAKE you a better artist because you paid the tuition. Show up to class, develop a professional relationship and work your ass off. Some people have complained about the educators, however i think it helps to be realistic...who has really loved ALL of their teachers anywhere?

-The workload is huge. For every hour of class, expect at LEAST one hour of homework that week. I practically lived there, but i loved it, and the work didn't seem like work because I really wanted to be doing it.

-The school adheres very tightly to the philosophy that they can make ANYONE and artist. This is ridiculous. Be honest with yourself, the school is a tool that can develop what is naturally already there. Some people are more adept and inclined to be skilled doctors, others astro-physicists...others artists etc. You can spruce up a Ford Pinto all you want...but at the end of the day, its still a Pinto.

-Be nice to the people that work in the tool room...they'll probably have to save your ass during finals.

-Realize that it's art school. Critiques are going to happen, some people are going to hate what you do (they are actually a little too nice i think) others will like it, and some wont care. That's life. And that's one of the things that contribute to the diversity of the contemporary art community. Suck it up and thicken your skin. The discussions can be very useful for aspiring artists to develop their ability to articulate and express their ideas.

-Don't take the bus unless you are disabled...it's a waste of time and the walk will do you good.

-The facilities they offer are pretty awesome, wood shop, welding studio, bronze casting facility etc.

-The Fine Art Sculpture and Printmaking Dept. are REALLY small and so the environment is a tight peer group.

-Sculpture Bldg is right across from the Irish Bank. Beer and french fry breaks do the body good.

-Some incredibly cool teachers and all around awesome people and resources:
Peter Schifrin-Director Sculpture
Margaret Keelan-Asst. Director Sculpture
Cheryl Coon-Sculpture
Carrie Ann Plank-Printmaking/ Silkscreen
Susan Belau-Foundation/Printmaking
Nils Krueger-Sculpture

-The school is known for being pretty traditional, however the work is becoming more conceptual and challenging. It does help to have the foundation knowledge and experience first though.

- There is a 99.9% chance you will not graduate in 4 years. Try not to take more than 4 classes at a time. The quality of work will suffer and so will you. 4 is more than enough, though the school recommends 6.

-Don't let grades bother you. But if it matters, don't be afraid to ask professors  why.

-One of the most helpful and important things I learned, was to disagree with the professors and defend my ideas. Their challenging you is a way for you to refine and clarify your ideas. It all works out, and its not personal.

-hope this is helpful.

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37

290

Anita B.

San Francisco, CA

9/10/2007

I graduated and frankly, I think the Academy gets a bad rap. While yes, the school is obviously in to real estate, I think that so long as you know what you want to do with your life and you work hard, this school will get you there. Stay out of the dorms/school owned apartments and you really shouldn't have any problems with the real estate aspects of the school in my opinion.

Things to consider:

How serious are you about a career in photography, advertising, etc? If you're really serious about it, the Academy will give you the tools to be successful. You will have a good portfolio by the time you graduate if you work hard.

Do you want to be independant and creative or do you want the tools to succeed in the job world? If you want to get a job and be successful, this is your school. If you're looking to be independant and use your own creativity, this isn't necessarily it. They will make you marketable, but it probably isn't the school to come to if you want to say, be an independant artist or something. The Academy is more for breaking the "starving artist" mold and so that obviously means you're going to be doing more conventional stuff for the industry you wish to be in.

Tuition is expensive. $1800/class. While if you compare it to other art schools, it isn't too bad, it is too much money for someone who isn't sure that art/their major is their passion and what they want to do with their life. Don't enroll on a whim just because you think art school sounds cool. AAU isn't easy and the work is pretty labor intensive. If you aren't willing to work, you will likely drop out and waste a lot of money.

While the admins are just kind of scattered, the support staff really do care about getting the students a good education. There are a lot of resources available to students (even online students) who need help and wish to utilize them. I agree with the poster who said to not (or at least try not to) judge the school based on the real estate holdings. I found that it didn't really effect me personally as a student and the quality of education was good. That is what I cared about... that and again, I didn't have to live in the dorms. I think that can make a difference for many.

Teachers: Teachers are hit or miss, but I found that to be true at USF as well to be honest. I think it's true no matter where you go. There is an AAU (aac) livejournal forum where you can ask questions about anything regarding the school. Ask there before you enroll in a class and the posters will give you all of the knowledge they have.

Housing:

Honestly, find your own housing. The dorms/apartments owned by the school are extremely expensive and from those I saw where friends lived at the time, not worth it. Search craigslist and http://Rent.com and look for a place of your own. You'll probably save money. I think that housing now is actually more expensive than finding your own... and you could live alone for the rates they charge for you to share. (Disclosure: I never lived in a dorm personally. This is my obvservation. Maybe things are different now.)

All in all, I give the time I spent at the Academy 4.5 stars. I also went to a traditional university (have another degree from there as well) and I think I got more out of my time at AAU than the other and I definitely think it made getting a job a lot easier. If you're committed and you want to make a career for yourself, I recommend AAU. Just do your research, ask questions, be proactive and you will do well.

Note: They DO give As but you have to work your ass off for them. Most professors are reasonable and they are willing to reward those who work hard.

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0

7

Fran S.

San Francisco, CA

4/17/2009

As a photography major, I have a love-hate relationship with this place.
I started back in 2001 as a full time student but I had to start working full time to pay for school and real life issues. I could turn this review into a bi*** fest however I won't. (I could write a book )

What I like:

*Documentary Photography program (The classes and instructors and my fellow photographers)

* I picked this place specifically because of the documentary program and I feel I'm getting my $$'s worth. The instructors are working professionals and I want (need) current information as opposed to a theory based program.

* All of the equipment is current and updated every year. ( I see where my $$ is going)

* The guest speakers brought in are people in the industry making a living and giving us real, useful feedback about how it is in the real world of photography.

* I look at the work of my fellow students. There are some TALENTED SOB's here and I'm glad to know them and see them in action and work alongside them. We critique each others work and it helps everyone in the long run. If I didn't think the program was worth my time, I would not have stuck it out this long.

* CASE.
I give them props for improving the campus student life. I really appreciate CASE offering different events, clubs, etc for all AAU students to participate. It makes the campus seem more personal.

*Events that showcase student talent.
I really like that the school hosts the Spring show and other events that show off the great talent that exists @AAU. Bringing in pros from the different industries to look at our work and creating a venue for EXPOSURE.

Things I HATE:

*Financial Aid office. You would think a bunch of first graders on crack were running this place. This current semester, Financial Aid messed up my student loan refund and was going to over pay me.  First I called, the person on the phone had NO IDEA what I was talking about and wasted about 15 minutes of my life so I got my a** on BART and Muni and visited them. I was sent to my advisor, who I DID NOT need to see since the mistake was made in Financial Aid. (that was a wasted 10 minutes) My advisor, God bless him, sent me over to the correct person in FinAid and after telling her what my situation was, she disappeared for almost 15 minutes and the problem was solved. All of this because one of my classes was dropped (not enough students) and FinAid had to re-adjust my $$.   I keep track of EVERYTHING and every single piece of paper/receipt that I get from them just for this reason. This is not the first time they have screwed up and I'm sure not the last.

*Kids who come to this school who think it's a easy place because SAT /ACT scores don't count. WRONG. You actually have to have some talent or at the very least interest in art/photography in order to succeed here (in the real world too). I HATE lazy students and especially lazy students who have their parents pay for classes they are failing because they are not doing the work. News flash. Yeah, the work is hard. It's supposed to be. Bottom line, do the work, work hard, graduate. Simple concept.

*Somewhat lack of campus unity. I do see this changing somewhat since CASE is upgrading the campus life to make the school feel a bit more traditional. Since the layout of the school is spread out and there is no student union or student center, this is no one place where all students can congregate.

*TV ads.
ANNOYING as all hell!!

*Career center.
It's all online. WTF???

I'm not done, just my fingers are tired so I'll post this and come back and finish it.

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2

16

Anja F.

Mill Valley, CA

3/30/2007

This school is not run like an art school - it's run like a real estate development corporation, because that's what it is.

They leech your money out of you like a vampire on a rampage, and as if that's not enough, they seem simply not to care about artistic integrity.

If you're looking to get a very specific, somewhat traditional artistic methodology pounded into your head, while being told in any number of ways that you are an inferior artist and do not know what you're talking about, this is a great school to attend. If you're looking to attend a school whose general philosophy is that the harder you make it to succeed, the more your students will succeed, this is a great school to attend. If you believe that having a highly marketable illustration portfolio makes you a great artist, this is an excellent school to attend.

If you're actually an artist, not someone looking to make money by imitating Norman Rockwell, avoid this school like the plague that it is.

Did i mention it's a horrible school for students with learning disabilities? i'm one of the 75% that dropped out, and i'm glad.

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1

15

willie l.

San Francisco, CA

4/15/2009

great teachers  but way too over priced I'm a ids/ product major we have a great director in tom matano/ ran Mazda design for many years but the assistant director never even worked in the industry. there is a few very un qualified teacher and at this price its tough because you expect to learn.  tuition is going up10% +/-  there not giving anything in return not building hours not shop hours oh there is more student witch=  overcrowding so take that. the drop out rate is insane like 80 percent mostly because the no portfolio thing. the dorms are the biggest rip off don't go there you'll live with a lot of people for the price of a studio in the same area. I'm already a 2 year student so I'm going to finish but if i where to start again i would of gone else where prat probably because for a lil more i would have a double major.

PS i did learn allot great teachers awesome people in my major i just wish they would at least give us something for being more expensive other then a bill.

oh and i agree with this quote "Elisa Stephens may possibly be the anti-Christ"

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36

274

dj z.

Bay Area

5/31/2007

Crap. Crap crap crap. Crap? Crap.

So I attended AAC (now known as AAU) for about a year. I was happy with only one class that I took at the Academy. Everything else was extraneous.

After getting insulted by a teacher in the graduate program, I decided "to hell with this, I already have a degree" and started looking for jobs in the industry. I got a job and the Academy keeps asking me for advice and money/ donations.

Here is your thanks - Thanks for insulting my intelligence in the Video Game Design class; thanks for making me take pre-requisite classes in the undergrad program, just because I don't have a bachelors in art degree; thanks for telling me that I couldn't find a job in the industry, let alone keep one.

I have pictures with the Oscar I helped win - where is yours?

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22

27

Van P.

San Francisco, CA

12/19/2007

I'm such a dork, I love school. I feel like I've gained so much in the MFA program. Most of the professors that I had were very encouraging and inspirational. Of course, it's tons of hard work, lack of sleep and coffee is going to be your best friend but hopefully it's all going to be worth it in the end!
As for the dorms/campus apartments...they all suck! Yes, it's a good way to meet other students but you can never get them to fix anything there. It's way too expensive and you might get stuck with a weird roommate.

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0

1

ARMOND S.

New York, NY

8/2/2009

don't go to this greedy place. they rip you off every step of the way.

all the 'events' and 'shows' they do is not to promote the students, it is just to try to sign in new people and sell them a fairy tale. did you guys know that the owner of the school, eliza stevens flies a private jet?..
i know people that have graduated from fashion and textile design and will never find a job because that degree doesn't mean anything. they didn't even teach the program u4ia to textile students, which is the program the industry uses. they make you pay for classes that are a real joke and do not take any credits you might have from another school so that they can charge you for that too. they bring thousand of asian students (their easy target) that sometimes cannot understand a word of english only to take their money.

all the name throwing they do (versace/calvin klein/louis vuitton) is the proof that they are not serious as an institution, they just try to dazzle people and there is not one designer working in those houses that graduated from there. people end up in debt and without a future from signing up there. don't  go. academy of art university is a big scam!

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Elite '09

45

200

Jess R.

Los Angeles, CA

2/5/2007

I think the Academy gets a bad rap, and I'm still not too sure why...

Like most things in life, you get out of it what you put into it.  Cliche', I know.

This marks my third year at the Academy and I'm about to graduate this semester.  As far as the Educational aspect, overall, I feel very fulfilled and very qualified to enter the job market as a photographer.

The instructors are *USUALLY* top working professionals, as opposed to "teachers", which means the information you receive is both relevant and up-to-date.

The down side is the $$$....  or lack-there-of.  I pay $1800 a class, plus lab fees, PLUS all other extra costs (and there are a lot of them).  My credit cards are all maxed out as a result.

A's do happen.  They aren't easy.  I rocked a 4.0 my first two years, but I also didn't go out much.  Somewhere along the line I decided that life was a neat thing, so a few B's slipped in.  Point being, if you BUST YOUR HUMP at it, and actually have solid work, the instructors will recognize it and award you for it.

Except for last semester...  *shakes fist*

Final Thoughts?  DON'T come to this school if you're looking for a "college experience" and aren't really sure what you want.  You will drop out.  Save yourself some $$$ and go to junior college for a year.

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