Art Degrees: Choosing Your Weapon (Without Getting Poked in the Eye)
So, you're an aspiring artist, ready to conquer the world with your paintbrush (or stylus, or welding torch, you get the idea). But before you swan into college applications like a celebrity walking a red carpet, there's a looming question: BFA or BA? Fear not, young Padawan, for this humorous guide will illuminate the path like a disco ball in a grandma's living room.
BFA vs BA What is The Difference Between BFA And BA |
BFA: Bootcamp for Badasses
Imagine a degree that's 80% pure, unadulterated art. Think studio time that rivals your Netflix binging sessions, critiques that sting (but make you better), and professors who could moonlight as rockstars (okay, maybe not, but they're definitely passionate). That's the BFA life.
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Pros:
- Skills to the max: You'll be a technical ninja, wielding your chosen medium like a samurai with a katana.
- Portfolio power: Get ready to impress future employers with a collection that screams "Picasso, eat your heart out!"
- Community of kindred spirits: Surround yourself with fellow art warriors, commiserating over late nights and celebrating creative breakthroughs.
Cons:
- Kiss those electives goodbye: Say ciao to basket weaving and underwater basket weaving (yes, that's a thing). It's art, art, and more art.
- Sleep? What's that?: Prepare for late nights fueled by caffeine and inspiration (and maybe a little desperation).
- The real world might be a culture shock: After years immersed in the art bubble, navigating the "adulting" world can feel like landing on Mars.
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BA: The Renaissance Rockstar
Think of a BA as a well-rounded buffet for your creative soul. You'll still get your art fix, but you'll also dabble in history, philosophy, and maybe even a foreign language (bonjour, artistic vocabulary!).
Pros:
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- Become a well-rounded human: Expand your horizons beyond just your chosen art form. You might even discover hidden talents (like writing hilarious blog posts, ahem).
- Flexibility is your friend: Explore different art forms before committing to one, or use your electives to build valuable skills like graphic design or marketing.
- The "real world" won't be so scary: You'll already have a broader skillset and understanding of different subjects, making the transition smoother.
Cons:
- Less studio time: Prepare to share the spotlight with other subjects. Your inner artist might throw a tantrum.
- The art focus might feel diluted: If you crave pure, unadulterated art immersion, the BA might leave you feeling a little peckish.
- Choosing classes can be overwhelming: With so many options, decision fatigue is a real threat.
Ultimately, the choice is yours:
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Are you a laser-focused artist ready to dedicate your life to your craft? BFA might be your calling.
Do you crave a broader intellectual journey while nurturing your artistic side? BA could be your perfect match.
Remember, there's no right or wrong answer, just the path that best suits your unique artistic journey. So, grab your metaphorical paintbrush, choose your weapon wisely, and get ready to create something amazing!
P.S. No matter which path you choose, remember to have fun, embrace the weird, and don't be afraid to get a little messy (both literally and figuratively). Now go forth and conquer the art world, young artist! Just maybe avoid using glitter in your final project – your professor might not appreciate it as much as I do.