If you’re currently in high school (and we’re guessing you are, because you’re on a page called Info for High School Students), you probably have lots of questions about college. Our FAQs page is helpful, but before you can grasp those answers, there are a few basics to understand.

An undergraduate degree is the most common academic degree available at a university. Those seeking this degree are called undergraduate students because they have not yet graduated and received a degree.

A graduate student is one who has received his or her degree (usually a Bachelor’s degree) and is pursuing a postgraduate degree (typically a Master’s degree.)

View our video Sneak Peek: A Glimpse into the Departments of VCUarts
(Download Quicktime here.)


SUMMER INTENSIVE - JULY 8-27, 2007
The dates are set for this popular program that includes Animation, Dance, Fashion Design, Filmmaking, Interior Design, Photography, Theatre, Writing for the Arts and Portfolio Building. High school students from far and wide will gather to explore their interests, learn valuable skills, prepare for the college application process, make new friends, and have far more fun than they ever imagined. Click here for details.

ONLINE MENTORS
If you wish to speak to a current student about general, non-admissions questions, click HERE for a list by department.


ADVICE FROM CURRENT STUDENTS

Top 11 Things We Wish We Had Known in High School:

11. Visit campuses before making a decision on where to go to school. Look at student work, talk to people and explore the city.

10. If you really love art, make it your lifestyle.

9. Draw every day and keep a sketchbook.

8. Be prepared for culture shock – diverse, urban, real world environment.

7. If you are trying something new and taking chances, you will learn more here in 3 months than you’ve learned in a lifetime of exploration.

6. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes in your work. You will learn from them.

5. Forget what you think you know about art, and really listen and explore.

4. Never throw anything away (work or supplies).

3. Be prepared to work hard when you come here, but be able to have fun at the same time.

2. Apply to the honors program, and all scholarships applicable. Consider housing, area, and what kind of student life/campus you are looking for.

1. Don’t panic. Relax. Everything will go fine.